Iceland Travel Tips

Accessing cash is generally easy through ATMs, which are widely available in cities, towns, and even many rural areas. Most ATMs accept international cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Before traveling, check with your bank to confirm that your card will work in Iceland and to learn about any fees for international transactions or ATM withdrawals.

Before your trip, inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid your card being flagged for unusual activity. It’s also a good idea to bring a combination of cash and cards to ensure flexibility and security. By familiarizing yourself with Iceland’s currency and ATM options, you can manage your finances smoothly while exploring the Land of Fire and Ice.

Here are some handy phrases in Icelandic:

Halló (hat-loh) - Hello

Bless (bless) - Goodbye

Takk fyrir (tahk fir-eer) - Thank you

Afsakið (av-sah-kith) - Excuse me

Já (yow) - Yes

Nei (nay) - No

Vinsamlegast (vin-sam-leh-gahst) - Please

Fyrirgefðu (fir-eer-gef-thu) - Sorry

Talar þú ensku? (ta-lar thu en-sku) - Do you speak English?

Icelanders are very proud of their language and culture. Icelandic names are patronymic, meaning that a child's last name is derived from the first name of their father (or mother), with the addition of "son" (for a boy) or "dóttir" (for a girl). This naming convention reflects Iceland's deeply rooted traditions.

When greeting someone, a firm handshake and direct eye contact are customary. Icelanders are known for their friendliness and hospitality, so making an effort to speak their language, even just a few phrases, will be appreciated.

The Icelandic language plays a significant role in the nation's literary heritage, with a rich tradition of storytelling that dates back to the medieval sagas. These historical narratives are an integral part of Iceland's cultural identity and continue to influence modern Icelandic literature and media. By familiarizing yourself with these basic phrases and cultural nuances, you can navigate your way through Iceland more smoothly and enrich your travel experience by engaging more authentically with the local people.

Iceland's weather is famously unpredictable, earning the country the saying, "If you don't like the weather, wait five minutes." The climate is classified as subarctic, with cool summers and relatively mild winters compared to other regions at similar latitudes. However, temperatures can vary greatly depending on the season and specific location within the country.

During the summer months (June to August), temperatures typically range between 10°C (50°F) and 15°C (59°F), but can occasionally reach up to 20°C (68°F). The long daylight hours, including the phenomenon of the midnight sun, provide plenty of time for outdoor activities. Despite the mild temperatures, it’s essential to pack warm layers as evenings can still be chilly, and weather conditions can change rapidly. Lightweight, waterproof jackets are a good choice for unexpected rain, and comfortable hiking shoes or boots are ideal for exploring Iceland’s rugged terrain.

Winter (November to February) in Iceland sees average temperatures ranging from -1°C (30°F) to 4°C (39°F). While these temperatures are not extremely cold, the wind can make it feel much colder. Snow is common, especially in the northern regions and higher altitudes. The winter months are also prime time for viewing the Northern Lights. It’s important to dress warmly with insulated layers and waterproof outerwear. Heavy winter coats, thermal underwear, and insulated boots will keep you comfortable during your winter adventures.

Spring and autumn (March to May and September to October) in Iceland can be quite varied. Spring sees the melting of snow and longer days, while autumn is characterized by vibrant foliage. Temperatures in these months usually range from 0°C (32°F) to 10°C (50°F). A waterproof jacket and warm layers are essential during these transitional seasons to stay comfortable as the weather can be quite changeable.

By preparing for Iceland’s electrical standards ahead of time, you can stay connected, capture every moment, and enjoy your adventure without interruption.

By understanding local customs, you can show appreciation appropriately without feeling pressured to tip, allowing you to enjoy Icelandic hospitality with confidence.

Additionally, learning a few basic Icelandic phrases or using translation apps can be helpful in situations where language barriers may arise, ensuring you can communicate effectively and receive timely assistance.

• Police – 112
• Call 112 for immediate police assistance in case of emergencies such as accidents, crimes, or threats to safety. Police can dispatch officers to your location and provide the necessary support.
• Fire and Ambulance – 112
• The same number (112) is used for fire and ambulance services. Call in the event of medical emergencies, fires, or accidents requiring urgent attention. Emergency medical services can provide on-site care and transportation to the nearest hospital.
• Icelandic Tourist Assistance
• While there is no direct equivalent to the Japan Helpline, many tourist information centers across Iceland offer guidance and support in English. Staff can assist with emergencies, local contacts, and directions to the nearest medical or legal services.

In Reykjavik, the capital, and other popular tourist destinations, you can expect to pay the following:

For a casual meal at an inexpensive restaurant, prices generally range from 2,000 to 3,500 ISK (15-25 USD). This could get you a basic dish like a burger, soup, or sandwich. Fast food options like a hot dog from a stand can cost around 500 ISK (3.50 USD).

A mid-range restaurant with a three-course meal for two people will typically cost between 10,000 to 15,000 ISK (70-100 USD). This would include a variety of options such as fish, lamb, or vegetarian dishes.

High-end restaurants in Iceland, known for their gourmet and fine dining experiences, can be quite pricey. A meal at a top-tier restaurant can easily cost over 20,000 ISK (140 USD) per person, especially if you are ordering a multi-course meal and wine.

The cost of drinks also adds up. A beer at a bar or restaurant can cost between 1,000 to 1,500 ISK (7-10 USD), while a glass of wine can range from 1,500 to 2,500 ISK (10-18 USD). Non-alcoholic beverages like soda or bottled water are generally around 300 to 500 ISK (2-3.50 USD).

Tips for Saving Money:

• Lunch Deals. Many restaurants offer lunch specials that are more affordable than dinner prices.
• Grocery Stores. Consider buying food from grocery stores for a picnic or self-catering if you have kitchen facilities.
• Food Trucks. These offer delicious meals at a lower price compared to sit-down restaurants.

Searching for great places to eat? Discover our ultimate restaurant guide in Iceland. Understanding these prices can help you budget your trip more effectively and enjoy Iceland’s culinary scene without breaking the bank.

Lamb soup, known as Kjötsúpa, is a hearty and warming dish often enjoyed during the cold months. Made with lamb shanks, root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and rutabagas, and seasoned with herbs, it represents comfort food at its finest. Another popular lamb dish is Hangikjöt, smoked lamb that is typically boiled and served hot or cold, often accompanied by potatoes in béchamel sauce, green peas, and pickled red cabbage.

Plokkfiskur is a traditional fish stew that highlights Iceland’s rich seafood heritage. This dish is a creamy blend of cooked and mashed white fish, usually cod or haddock, mixed with potatoes, onions, and a béchamel sauce. It is often served with a side of dark rye bread, which provides a hearty accompaniment to the creamy fish stew. Svið, or boiled sheep’s head, is a dish that speaks to Iceland’s no-waste approach to food. The head is halved and singed to remove any remaining hair, then boiled and served with mashed turnips and potatoes.

Harðfiskur, dried fish, is a popular snack that has been a staple of the Icelandic diet for centuries. Usually made from cod, haddock, or wolffish, the fish is wind-dried until it reaches a jerky-like consistency. It is often eaten with butter and makes for a protein-rich snack that is both lightweight and easy to store, reflecting the resourcefulness of Icelandic cuisine.

Another noteworthy dish is Lundi, or puffin. Puffins are traditionally hunted and their meat smoked or boiled. The taste of puffin is often compared to a mix of fish and poultry, and it is usually served with a sauce made from the berries of the region.

Finally, Blóðmör, or blood pudding, is similar to black pudding found in other cultures. Made from sheep's blood, suet, rye flour, and oats, this dish is spiced and stuffed into a casing before being boiled. It is traditionally eaten during the Þorrablót festival, honoring Icelandic heritage.

It is traditionally served with cream and sugar or with fresh berries like bilberries, crowberries, or strawberries, making it a refreshing and nutritious dessert option. Modern variations might include skyr in cheesecakes or smoothies, highlighting its versatility and creamy texture.

Another beloved treat is rúgbrauð, a dense, dark rye bread that is often steamed rather than baked. Though not a dessert in itself, rúgbrauð is commonly served with butter and smoked salmon or topped with a sweet spread such as rhubarb jam or even skyr mixed with berries and honey. The bread's slightly sweet flavor and rich texture make it a delightful part of Icelandic dessert offerings.

Kleinur, a type of twisted doughnut, is a traditional Icelandic pastry that is deep-fried and often enjoyed with a cup of coffee. These crispy, slightly sweet treats are similar to American doughnuts but have a distinct flavor due to the use of cardamom in the dough. Kleinur are especially popular during the festive season but can be enjoyed year-round.

For those who love chocolate, Hjónabandssæla or "Happy Marriage Cake" is a must-try. This cake consists of a buttery oat crust filled with rhubarb or berry jam and topped with a crumbly oat mixture. The combination of tart fruit and sweet, crumbly topping creates a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.

Pönnukökur, or Icelandic pancakes, are thin and crepe-like, typically served rolled up with sugar or filled with whipped cream and jam. These pancakes are a favorite for both breakfast and dessert, often enjoyed during special occasions and family gatherings. The light, airy texture of pönnukökur makes them a versatile base for various sweet toppings.

Snúður, a cinnamon roll glazed with a layer of icing, is another popular dessert. These sweet, sticky buns are a common sight in bakeries across Iceland and are often enjoyed with a cup of coffee. The cinnamon and sugar filling, combined with the soft, doughy texture, makes snúður an irresistible treat.

Vínarterta is a layered cake of alternating layers of thin, biscuit-like dough and a filling made from prunes or rhubarb. This cake, which has its roots in Icelandic immigrant communities in North America, is traditionally enjoyed during the Christmas season. The layers are often flavored with cardamom, giving the cake a distinctive taste that is both sweet and slightly spicy.

In recent years, Icelandic bakers and chefs have been experimenting with new dessert recipes, incorporating local ingredients such as sea buckthorn, angelica, and even licorice. These modern twists on traditional flavors highlight Iceland's innovative culinary scene while staying true to its roots.

One of Iceland's most iconic traditional drinks is Brennivín, often referred to as the "Black Death." This potent schnapps is made from fermented grain or potato mash and flavored with caraway seeds, giving it a distinctive taste. It has a strong cultural significance and is commonly enjoyed during national celebrations or with the traditional dish, fermented shark, known as hákarl.

Beer also holds an interesting place in Icelandic history. Prohibition of beer lasted from 1915 until 1989, but since then, it has gained immense popularity. The craft beer scene in Iceland has blossomed, with breweries like Einstök and Borg Brugghús producing a variety of styles from pale ales to stouts, often using local ingredients such as Icelandic water and berries.

For those seeking non-alcoholic options, Icelandic glacial water is a must-try. It is known for its purity and is sourced from the island's natural springs and glaciers, often considered some of the cleanest water in the world. Additionally, Icelandic herbal teas crafted from native plants like arctic thyme and birch leaves offer a soothing and fragrant experience, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the island's dramatic landscapes.

In recent years, Iceland has embraced the coffee culture, with Reykjavik boasting numerous specialty coffee shops serving expertly crafted brews. Icelandic coffee, known for its strong and rich flavor, is a staple for locals and visitors alike.

Thorrablot (Þorrablót) is a midwinter festival held in honor of the Norse god Thor. It takes place during the month of Þorri, from mid-January to mid-February. Historically, this festival was a way for Icelanders to gather and enjoy traditional foods during the harsh winter months. The celebration involves a feast of traditional Icelandic dishes such as hákarl (fermented shark), svið (sheep's head), and slátur (a type of blood pudding). These foods are typically served with Brennivín, a potent Icelandic schnapps. Þorrablót is not just about the food; it is a time for storytelling, singing, and dancing, allowing Icelanders to reconnect with their roots and celebrate their resilience in the face of long winters.

Sumardagurinn Fyrsti, or the First Day of Summer, is celebrated on the first Thursday after April 18th. This celebration marks the arrival of summer according to the Old Norse calendar, even though snow might still be present. The day is a public holiday in Iceland, and people celebrate with parades, sporting events, and outdoor activities. It symbolizes the optimism and joy that comes with the anticipation of warmer weather and longer days after the long, dark winter.

Sjómannadagurinn, or Seamen’s Day, is celebrated on the first Sunday in June. This day honors Iceland's fishermen and seafarers, acknowledging their crucial role in the nation's history and economy. Towns and villages across Iceland host various events, including boat races, rescue demonstrations, and seafood feasts. The celebration underscores the importance of the fishing industry in Iceland's culture and economy, paying tribute to those who have lost their lives at sea.

Icelandic National Day (Þjóðhátíðardagurinn) is celebrated on June 17th, marking the anniversary of Iceland's independence from Danish rule in 1944. The date was chosen to honor Jón Sigurðsson, a leader of Iceland's independence movement, whose birthday falls on this day. The celebration includes parades, speeches, concerts, and fireworks throughout the country. It is a day of national pride, reflecting on Iceland's journey to sovereignty and its cultural heritage.

Christmas in Iceland is a magical time filled with unique traditions. The festivities begin on December 23rd with Þorláksmessa, where fermented skate is traditionally eaten. Icelandic children look forward to visits from the 13 Yule Lads, mischievous troll-like figures who leave gifts in children's shoes. Each Lad has a distinct personality and visits on a specific night leading up to Christmas. The season culminates in a grand New Year's celebration with fireworks lighting up the sky, symbolizing the farewell to the old year and the welcoming of the new one.

Bolludagur, Sprengidagur, and Öskudagur - These three days mark the lead-up to Lent. Bolludagur, or Bun Day, is celebrated with the eating of cream-filled buns. Sprengidagur, known as Bursting Day, involves eating salted meat and peas, symbolizing indulgence before the fasting period. Öskudagur, or Ash Wednesday, is celebrated with children dressing up in costumes and singing for treats, similar to Halloween.