Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Iceland Summary
These place ratings give you a quick overview of how well a destination matches different types of trips.
‘Best for’ scores:
The specific interest scores show where this place really shines – whether it's ideal for hiking, food & drink experiences, museums or other activities. These highlights help you understand what makes the destination special at a glance.
‘Your personal’ scores:
This reflects how well a place matches your personal preferences. You can adjust the importances of travel topics or other personal requirements categories in your account settings.
‘Suited for’ badges:
These give you a quick overview of how well a destination suits specific types of travellers, to help you find the places that match your lifestyle, preferences or travel situation.
Suited for
Iceland – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type F
Type F:
 Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
Icelandic Króna (ISK) £1 ≈ ISK 163 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
Cashless payments are highly common in Iceland, especially in cities. Most businesses accept credit and debit cards, including smaller establishments. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are popular.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not common in Iceland and not expected in restaurants. A service charge is usually included in the bill. Tipping taxi drivers or hotel staff is appreciated but not necessary. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is allowed, especially in designated areas during festivals or outdoor events. Alcohol is also available at licensed venues. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in indoor public spaces and on public transport. Designated smoking areas are available outside of many restaurants and public buildings. |
| Icelandic National Day (June) |
Expect parades and celebrations throughout the country. Hotels and tourist spots can get busy. |
|---|---|
| Christmas (December) |
Christmas is widely celebrated, and it’s a great time to visit for festive markets, but accommodation can be more expensive. |
| Þorrablót Festival (January) |
A festival celebrating Icelandic cuisine, it’s a popular time to visit, though some businesses may have reduced hours. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | Hreyfill, Reykjavik Taxi |
| Other: | Iceland's weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to prepare for sudden changes in climate. Always check weather forecasts before venturing into nature. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Iceland, Iceland
Highland interior roads (F-roads) usually only open late June to September
Northern lights season September to April, needs dark, clear skies
Midnight sun late May to late July, sun barely sets
Don't miss
- 🌌 Marvel at the dancing Northern Lights in winter
- 💦 Soak in the milky-blue waters of the Blue Lagoon
- 🚗 Drive the full Ring Road and explore Iceland’s natural wonders
- 💧 Visit powerful Gullfoss waterfall and feel the spray up close
- 🌈 Walk behind the stunning Seljalandsfoss waterfall
- 🌋 Discover volcanic landscapes and geysers in the Golden Circle
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Why travel to Iceland?
Iceland's appeal lies in its remarkable natural wonders and unique geological features. The country boasts some of the world's most stunning waterfalls, active volcanoes, massive glaciers and geothermal areas with bubbling mud pots and erupting geysers. Beyond the landscapes, you'll find a rich cultural heritage with fascinating Viking history, distinctive architecture and a thriving arts scene. The relatively small population means that vast areas remain pristine wilderness, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers. However, travelers should be prepared for certain challenges. The weather is notoriously unpredictable, with conditions that can change rapidly throughout the day. While summer offers milder temperatures and the midnight sun, winters bring limited daylight hours and challenging driving conditions. Iceland is also one of Europe's more expensive destinations, with high costs for accommodation, food and activities. Despite these considerations, the country's extraordinary natural beauty and unique experiences make it well worth navigating these challenges.
🏙️Cities & Regions
-
1
Reykjavík
Capital city of Iceland, located on the southwestern coast, offers a mix of modern architecture and natural wonders nearby. Visitors find geothermal pools, vibrant street art and easy access to glaciers, waterfalls and volcanic landscapes. -
2
Vík í Mýrdal
This historic valley in Iceland features the Myrdal Glacier and dramatic mountains. The area offers charming villages, geothermal spas and scenic routes connecting to Europe's northernmost destinations for travelers seeking adventure and natural beauty. -
3
Akureyri
A coastal town on Iceland’s north coast offers dramatic fjords, rugged cliffs and a lively harbor. Visitors can explore nearby waterfalls, whale‑watching spots and the historic church, while enjoying local seafood and relaxed cafés. -
4
Þingvellir National Park
Where tectonic plates meet, Thingvellir National Park offers dramatic rift valleys and crystal-clear lakes. This UNESCO site preserves ancient volcanic landscapes alongside geothermal springs, making it a unique destination for nature lovers exploring Iceland's geological wonders. -
5
Seydisfjordur
A dramatic fjord carved by glaciers, Seyðisfjörður offers steep cliffs, colorful wooden houses and a thriving arts scene. The surrounding mountains provide hiking routes, while the harbor welcomes visitors to explore local museums and scenic viewpoints. -
6
Selfoss
This bustling town in Iceland's South Region serves as a gateway to geothermal spas and nearby waterfalls. Its compact center offers easy access to nature, making it an ideal base for exploring volcanic landscapes and glacial rivers without the crowds of Reykjavik. -
7
Vatnajökull National Park
This vast Icelandic wilderness features dramatic glaciers, geothermal valleys and rugged mountains under an ever-changing sky. The park offers endless hiking trails through otherworldly landscapes where nature's raw power is on full display year-round. -
8
Snæfellsjökull National Park
This vast Icelandic national park features dramatic volcanic landscapes, rugged cliffs and glacial rivers. Visitors explore unique geological formations, wild horses and remote hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of nature's raw power across the Snæfellsnes peninsula.
🏯Places worth seeing
🎡Places for activities
🏞️Natural landmarks
-
1
Grjótagjá
Explore Vatnajökull National Park's glacial landscapes, including the dramatic Gjáta glacier and surrounding valleys. Hike through ice caves, witness towering waterfalls and observe diverse wildlife in this remote Icelandic wilderness. -
2
Gullfoss Falls
This majestic waterfall plunges into a deep canyon, drawing crowds to its powerful spray. While busy in peak season, stepping back reveals the raw beauty of Iceland's volcanic landscape and misty surroundings. -
3
Vatnajökull
-
4
Lake Myvatn View Point
-
5
Dynjandi
-
6
Eyjafjallajökul
-
7
Seljalandsfoss
🛍️Shopping
🎈Events
-
Iceland Airwaves Music Festival
-
Winter Lights Festival
-
Reykjavík Arts Festival
-
Secret Solstice Festival
-
Þorrablót Midwinter Festival
-
Reykjavík International Film Festival
-
Icelandic National Day
-
Reykjavík Culture Night
-
Iceland Writers Retreat
-
Arctic Open Golf Tournament
Popular travel destinations in Iceland
Knowledge before you go
- Check weather forecasts; conditions change rapidly.
- Rent 4x4 vehicles for F-roads; never drive off-road.
- Register itinerary on SafeTravel.is before hiking remote areas.
- Respect barriers at Reynisfjara beach; sneaker waves are deadly.
How to travel to Iceland
Most international visitors arrive in Iceland through Keflavík International Airport, located about 50 km from Reykjavík. Direct flights connect Iceland to major cities in Europe and North America, with Icelandair and other carriers offering regular service. From the airport, the FlyBus and Airport Express shuttle services provide transfers to Reykjavík. During summer months, some cruise ships dock in Reykjavík and Akureyri, offering an alternative way to visit. As of March 2025, most nationalities can enter Iceland visa-free for up to 90 days, though it's advisable to check current requirements before traveling.
Access summary
- Reykjavík/Southwest: Fly to Keflavík (KEF) from Europe, North America, hubs.
- Ring Road/north regions: Fly to KEF, rent car or connect via Reykjavík (RKV).
- Icelandair hub at KEF; independent carrier, not in major global alliances.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay in Iceland
Iceland offers accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to budget hostels, though prices tend to be high across all categories. In Reykjavík and other major towns, you'll find international hotel chains alongside boutique properties. Rural areas feature guesthouses, farm stays and small hotels. For budget travelers, hostels and camping (in summer) provide more affordable options. Unique stays include converted lighthouses, bubble hotels for Northern Lights viewing and remote mountain huts. Booking well in advance is essential, especially during peak summer season (June-August) when availability becomes extremely limited.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
How to get around Iceland
Getting around Iceland offers various options depending on your adventure level. Renting a car provides the most flexibility for exploring, with the Ring Road (Route 1) circling the entire island and connecting most major attractions. For those preferring not to drive, guided tours operate from major hubs like Reykjavík and Akureyri. Public buses serve larger towns but have limited schedules, especially in winter. In Reykjavík, local buses provide good coverage of the capital area. Always check road conditions before traveling, especially in winter when weather can make some routes impassable.
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in Iceland are around 53% higher than the average across United States. That means you'll spend a lot more on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to ISK) is 6% worse than in recent years. That means travelling now costs around the same compared to the past.
Travel costs
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
Daily cost summary
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💵 Total costs per day, including accommodation | |||
| 🏨 Accommodation per night, per person | |||
| 🍝 Food per day | |||
| 🚕 Transportation per day |
Food & Drink
| 🍽️ Restaurant Dinner, per person | |
|---|---|
| 🍛 Lunch Set, per person | |
| 🍟 Fast food combo | |
| 🍝 Preparing your own food, per day | |
| ☕ Cappuccino | |
| 🍺 Beer in a restaurant, 0.5 l |
Transportation
| 🚌 Public transport ticket | |
|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi Ride, 10 km / 6 mi | |
| ⛽ Petrol, 1 l |
Other
| 🎞️ Cinema ticket | |
|---|---|
| 👩⚕️ Doctor's consult | |
| 🤧 Cold medication | |
| 💇 Basic haircut |
Safety information overview
General safety
Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world with extremely low crime rates. The main safety concerns are related to natural hazards like unpredictable weather, rough terrain and geothermal areas. Always check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling.
Health & Medical
Iceland has excellent healthcare facilities with high-quality medical services, though they may be limited in remote areas. EU citizens can use the European Health Insurance Card, while others should have comprehensive travel insurance. No specific vaccinations are required.
Accessibility
Major attractions and newer facilities in Iceland offer reasonable accessibility, though natural sites often present challenges with rough terrain. Reykjavík has good accessibility infrastructure, but rural areas and wilderness attractions may be difficult for mobility-impaired travelers.
Tap water
Tap water in Iceland is exceptionally clean and safe to drink, often coming directly from pristine glacial and mountain sources. Bottled water is unnecessary and locals take pride in their pure water quality.
Packing recommendations for Iceland
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
🥾
Walking boots
📷
Camera
🚰
Reusable water bottle
🧥
Waterproof jacket
🕶️
Sunglasses
🩱
Swimwear
for hot springs
🔋
Power bank
🩹
Basic first aid kit
🌡️
Thermal base layers
📃
Travel insurance
🪪
Copies of passport and important documents
🧢
Woolly hat
🧥
Fleece mid-layer
even in summer
👖
Waterproof overtrousers
🧦
Warm socks
🔋
Spare batteries
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
European type
🩺
Prescription medicines
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
🛂
Passport
Related articles & guides for Iceland
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