Iceland Travel Guide: Essential Tips

Explore Iceland: Tips on Driving, Safety, and Culture

Flag of Iceland

Top 10 Most Searched Questions About Iceland

The capital of Iceland is Reykjavík, known for its colorful buildings, Hallgrímskirkja church, and vibrant arts scene.

EU citizens don’t need a visa. US, Canadian, and Australian citizens can visit for up to 90 days within a 180-day period visa-free under the Schengen Agreement. Other nationalities should check with the Icelandic Ministry for Foreign Affairs.

Iceland uses the Icelandic Króna (ISK). Cards are widely accepted, even for small transactions, but having some cash is useful in remote areas.

Yes, Iceland is one of the safest countries for tourists. Crime rates are very low, but natural hazards like harsh weather and volcanic activity require caution.

The official language is Icelandic. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas like Reykjavík, making communication easy for visitors.

Iceland is known for its stunning landscapes (e.g., waterfalls like Gullfoss, geysers, and the Blue Lagoon), the Northern Lights, volcanic activity, and unique cuisine like fermented shark and skyr.

Summer (June to August) is best for mild weather and 24-hour daylight, while winter (November to March) is ideal for seeing the Northern Lights. Spring and autumn offer fewer crowds and moderate weather.

Yes, Iceland is pricey, especially for food, accommodation, and tours. Budget options like camping, cooking your own meals, and using public transport can help reduce costs.

Yes, Iceland’s tap water is among the cleanest in the world, sourced from glacial springs. It’s safe and tastes great.

Top spots include Reykjavík, the Golden Circle (Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss), the Blue Lagoon, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, the East Fjords, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Iceland, a Nordic island nation between the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans, is a land of dramatic landscapes and natural wonders. Reykjavík, the capital, houses about two-thirds of the population and is a hub of culture with landmarks like the striking Hallgrímskirkja church and the Harpa concert hall. The Golden Circle, a popular tourist route, includes Þingvellir National Park—where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet—Geysir hot springs, and the thundering Gullfoss waterfall. The Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa near Grindavík, offers a surreal soaking experience in mineral-rich waters. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in the southeast captivates with floating icebergs and nearby Diamond Beach, where ice chunks glisten on black sand. The East Fjords, with their steep cliffs and charming fishing villages like Seyðisfjörður, provide a quieter escape. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature,” features the Snæfellsjökull volcano, lava fields, and Kirkjufell mountain, a favorite among photographers. Iceland’s otherworldly terrain includes black sand beaches like Reynisfjara, dotted with basalt columns and sea stacks, and the Northern Lights, best seen in winter months. Adventure seekers can explore ice caves in Vatnajökull National Park or hike to remote highlands like Landmannalaugar, known for rhyolite mountains and hot springs. Icelandic culture shines through its cuisine—try skyr (a yogurt-like dairy product), lamb, or even fermented shark for the brave—and events like Reykjavík’s Iceland Airwaves music festival. With its raw beauty, geothermal wonders, and sparse population, Iceland promises an unforgettable journey.

Visa & Passport for Iceland: Entry Requirements for Travelers

  • Passport Requirements: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your stay in Iceland (Schengen requirement). Ensure it has at least one blank page for stamps.
  • Visa Requirements: EU citizens don’t need a visa. US, Canadian, and Australian citizens can stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period visa-free under the Schengen Agreement. Other nationalities should check with the Icelandic Ministry for Foreign Affairs.
  • Health Entry Rules: No specific vaccinations are required for entry. Travel insurance covering medical emergencies is highly recommended, as healthcare costs can be high for non-residents without an EHIC (for EU citizens).

Driving in Iceland: Traffic Rules & Tips for Tourists

  • Driver’s License: EU licenses are valid. Non-EU drivers can use their national license for up to 6 months; an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if the license isn’t in English or a Nordic language.
  • Traffic Rules: Drive on the right. Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on gravel roads, and 90 km/h on paved roads like Route 1. The blood alcohol limit is 0.05%—strictly enforced.
  • Road Conditions: Route 1 (Ring Road) is mostly paved but can be narrow. F-roads (mountain roads) require a 4x4 vehicle and are often closed in winter. Gravel roads, like those in the East Fjords, can be rough—drive cautiously.
  • Weather Hazards: Weather changes rapidly—strong winds, snow, and ice are common, especially in winter. Check road.is for conditions and closures, particularly for highland routes like the Kjölur road.
  • Parking: Parking in Reykjavík is regulated—use paid zones or apps like Parka. Outside the capital, parking is generally free and easy, such as at sites like Gullfoss or Skógafoss.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies (police, ambulance, fire). The Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue (ICE-SAR) can assist in remote areas—call 112 for support.
  • Useful Resource: For more on driving regulations, visit the Visit Iceland website.

Iceland Currency: Using the Króna for Your Trip

  • Króna: Iceland uses the Icelandic Króna (ISK). Coins come in 1, 5, 10, 50, and 100 ISK; banknotes are 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 ISK.
  • Currency Exchange: Exchange money at banks or ATMs in Reykjavík—avoid airport exchanges due to high fees. Cards are widely accepted, even in small shops or for parking meters.
  • Payment Methods: Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted almost everywhere, including remote areas. Contactless payments are common. Cash is rarely needed but useful for small vendors at places like the Seljalandsfoss waterfall.
  • ATMs: ATMs are widely available in Reykjavík and larger towns like Akureyri, but scarce in rural areas like the Westfjords—withdraw cash in advance. Major banks like Landsbankinn offer fair rates.

Iceland Legal Guide: Laws Travelers Should Know

  • Local Laws: Drug possession is illegal and can lead to heavy fines or imprisonment. Public drinking is restricted—alcohol can only be consumed in licensed venues or private settings, not on streets.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Icelanders are friendly but reserved—greet with a handshake and respect personal space. Tipping isn’t expected; service charges are included in bills. Remove shoes when entering someone’s home, a common custom.
  • Photography Restrictions: Photography is allowed at most sites, but drones are regulated—permits are required near airports or protected areas like Þingvellir. Respect signs at geothermal areas like Geysir to avoid scalding risks.
  • Public Behavior: Public displays of affection are fine but should be discreet. Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces, including restaurants, with outdoor smoking areas available.
  • Customs Rules: From outside the EU, you can bring 1 liter of spirits, 1 liter of wine, and 200 cigarettes duty-free. Declare cash over €10,000 upon entry or exit. Alcohol over 2.5% ABV can only be purchased at state-run Vínbúðin stores.
  • Environmental Laws: Off-road driving is illegal and heavily fined to protect Iceland’s fragile ecosystem. Stick to marked paths at sites like Reynisfjara to avoid damaging moss or wildlife.
  • Emergency Contact: Dial 112 for emergencies. For non-urgent issues, contact the police at 444-1000. Tourist information centers in Reykjavík can assist with minor issues.

Travel Safety in Iceland: Staying Safe on Your Trip

  • Crime in Iceland: Iceland is extremely safe, with one of the lowest crime rates globally. Petty theft is rare, even in Reykjavík, but always secure belongings at busy spots like the Blue Lagoon.
  • Road Safety: Roads can be challenging—gravel surfaces, narrow bridges, and sheep crossings are common on Route 1. Winter driving requires extra caution due to ice and snow; rent a 4x4 for F-roads like those in the highlands.
  • Health Risks: Tap water is pristine and safe to drink. Food hygiene is excellent—enjoy local dishes like lamb soup or skyr from reputable vendors. Dress in layers; hypothermia is a risk in harsh weather, even in summer.
  • Natural Hazards: Iceland has active volcanoes—monitor alerts from the Icelandic Met Office for eruptions or ash clouds. Harsh weather, including blizzards and high winds, can close roads; check forecasts daily.
  • Medical Facilities: Healthcare is excellent in Reykjavík, with hospitals like Landspítali. Rural areas have limited facilities—travel insurance is recommended, as non-emergency care can be costly for non-residents.
  • Emergency Contacts: Dial 112 for emergencies (police, ambulance, fire). Pharmacies (Apótek) are available in major towns and can provide over-the-counter medications.
  • Outdoor Safety: Stick to marked paths at geothermal sites like Geysir to avoid burns. Ocean currents at Reynisfjara Beach are dangerous—never turn your back on the waves due to sneaker waves.

Flights to Iceland: Travel Options

Keflavík International Airport (KEF), located 50 km from Reykjavík, is Iceland’s main hub, serving flights worldwide. Domestic airports like Reykjavík (RKV) and Akureyri (AEY) connect to smaller regions.