OUR ICELAND TRAVEL GUIDE
Iceland, a little, volcanic paradise in the North Atlantic is a place like no other. The island is located half way between Europe and North America. It is is the perfect destination for adventurous families that love a good road-trip. With friendly locals, stunning scenery, tons of adventure, and a lively tourism scene, you should experience Iceland at least once in your lifetime.
Iceland is full of natural wonders from mountains, glaciers, hot springs, volcanoes, geysers, islands, northern lights and so much more! Dramatic is the best word to describe the landscape of Iceland. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone who appreciates the beauty of this world, Iceland is beckoning you to visit. Climb the lip of a dormant volcanic crater, wander among the pillars of cooled lava formations, put crampons on and climb a glacier, soak in a geothermally heated pool, experience and connect with nature at its finest. The water in Iceland is so clean that you can drink it right out of the rivers.
Iceland is a country that mystifies and entices. It is a country whose love of the supernatural, especially elves, trolls, and hidden beings, is incredibly intriguing if not a little odd.
LANGUAGE
Icelandic is the official language and can be very difficult. Fortunately, as with most Scandinavian countries, English is spoken widely and often very well. Be prepared with a few Icelandic phrases to win the locals over but they will be more than happy to help if they can.
CURRENCY
The currency in Iceland is the Icelandic króna, but many places will also accept the Euro and the US Dollar. 1£ is equivalent to about 175 ISK.
Icelanders tend to pay for almost everything with credit or debit card, so you don’t need to worry about carrying too much cash around with you. However, you’ll need a card that uses the chip and pin method.
Electric Sockets
In Iceland, electric sockets are of the European standard, specifically type C and type F plugs. These sockets provide a 220-240V supply, with a frequency of 50 Hz. Travelers from countries like the U.S., Canada, or the UK, where plugs and voltage differ, will need an adapter to use their devices.
Type C sockets feature two round pins, commonly used across Europe. Type F plugs are similar but have additional grounding clips on the side, providing extra safety. These plug types are compatible with most European appliances, so visitors from nearby countries may not need adapters.
To avoid issues with voltage conversion, it’s important to check that your electronics are dual voltage (100-240V). This is often the case with modern gadgets like laptops, phones, and cameras. If not, a voltage converter may also be required, in addition to the plug adapter, to prevent potential damage.
Visa
Iceland is a member of the Schengen Agreement but not the European Union. They offer Visa-free travel to all EU countries including those, not in the Schengen, and Schengen approved countries such as most of the Americas, Australia, and NZ for 90 days.
Nationals from other countries such as Russia Asian Citizens and South Africa need to apply for a Schengen Visa before traveling to Iceland.
Safety
Iceland is widely considered one of the safest countries in the world. Crime rates and the terror threat are incredibly low.
Iceland is an active geothermal island with glaciers, volcanoes and rough seas so care must be taken and professional advice sought when exploring is rugged terrain but if the natural environment is respected, you are in safe hands.
If you are planning on driving a car in Iceland as well as do some outdoor activities, we recommend you get travel insurance. Personally, we would never leave without booking some sort of travel insurance beforehand. We recommend World Nomads as they cover you on a large variety of activities, from snorkeling to hiking. If you are looking for something more short-term, Safety Wings is a good alternative, as they have insurance plans that can be renewed on a monthly basis.
BUDGET
Travelling to Iceland can get expensive. It certainly is one of the most expensive countries that we have ever visited in Europe. But as with any country there are ways of making your trip more or less expensive.
Your minimum spend per day in Iceland will be about 75£ including a bed in a hostel, if you cook most of your meals yourself and use public transport. Most people however will spend closer to 120£ a day.
Accommodation will be one of your largest expenses. A room in a hostel will cost at least 35£ , whilst higher end hotels in Iceland charge between 200-430£ per night.
Renting a campervan can save you money on your accommodation, but you need to factor in the cost of petrol. Hiring a car will cost between 30-60£ per day. A countrywide bus pass on the other hand costs 240£
Eating out in Iceland can cost anywhere between 8£ for a quick lunch to 40£ per dish in the high-end restaurants.
OUR SUGGESTED ITINERARY FOR ICELAND
We have created the ultimate itinerary for Iceland that includes as many Icelandic destinations as possible. This should alleviate any fear of missing out (FOMO). Here is the summary of the 5 day Iceland itinerary that we highly suggest you follow:
- DAY 1 – Drive to Hotel Ranga and Seljalandsfoss
- DAY 2 – Skógafoss, Dyrhólaey, Vik, Sandur, Viking Cottages of Núpsstaðurand singing icebergs of Jökulsárlón
- DAY 3 – Golden Circle Tour: Geysir, Gulfoss waterfall and Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park.
- DAY 4 – Reykjavik: Tjornin Lak, the Settlement Museum, National Museum of Iceland (Þjóðminjasafn Íslands) and Hallgrimskirkja (Hallgríms Church)
- DAY 5 – The Blue Lagoon
We have written a very detailed post about the suggested five-day Iceland itinerary with lots of information and travel tips.
WHERE TO GO IN ICELAND
Are you travelling to Iceland for the first time or returning for more? We hope to simplify your Icelandic trip and help you chose where to go, how long to stay there and what to do once you have arrived. We research every destination we visit in-depth and the information is based on our own experience travelling to Iceland. We travelled to various areas in Iceland and have created travel guides for all the places we visited.
Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital and largest city, is a vibrant hub of culture, history, and natural beauty. Known for its colorful buildings and modern Nordic architecture, the city offers a mix of attractions, from the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church and Harpa Concert Hall to its lively art galleries, cafes, and museums. Reykjavik is also a gateway to exploring Iceland’s famous natural wonders, like the Golden Circle and nearby geothermal hot springs. Despite its small size, the city has a thriving nightlife, an innovative culinary scene, and is a great base for experiencing both urban charm and outdoor adventure.
TRANSPORTATION IN ICELAND
You can fly to Iceland from most European cities. You will most likely land in Keflavik Airport which is a 45-minute drive from Reykjavik. You can get into Reykjavik from the airport by using this shuttle. It is cheaper if you pre-book it online.
The best way really to explore Iceland is on a road trip around the Ring road. To do this you will most likely need your own form of transportation. Most people either hire a car or a campervan.Hiring a campervan will save you money on accommodation and is a great way to travel around Iceland as a family.
The road conditions are pretty safe, however, it is advised that you don’t go off-roading in the F Roads, especially during the winter season. The weather also dictates a lot of road safety precautions so make sure you head local warnings.
Not to worry though because Iceland’s road safety is excellent, with tons of websites or apps to help you monitor the situation.
BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT ICELAND
The best time to travel to Iceland all depends on what you want to do. From April to May, it’s spring, and it’s the perfect season for fishing, golfing and exploring the outdoors.
The summer months of June to August are one of the busiest periods for Iceland. It is the most expensive time to visit, so be sure to book your flights and accommodation in advance. All the mountain roads are accessible and there is more daylight than darkness.
October to September things start cooling down, but it’s still possible to drive the Ring Road. The mountain roads however might temporarily be closed on snowy days. But this is the optimal time to visit to avoid tourist crowds.
From September to April some of the mountain roads are generally closed because of heavy snow, so you are more limited on where you can travel. The nights are long with very short burst of daylight. But mid-winter is also the best time to experience the Northern Lights in Iceland.
We visited Iceland in November and had a brilliant time even though it was cold. Seeing Iceland covered in snow and it’s frozen waterfalls was magical. We just made sure to wear thermals and loved the heated seats in our rental car.
ACCOMODATION IN ICELAND
If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, one of the most important things you’ll need to consider is your accommodation. Finding the right place to stay can make all the difference.
One thing to keep in mind is that Iceland can be quite expensive, so you’ll want to budget accordingly. That being said, there are plenty of options available, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Check out this post if your are looking for budget hotels in Iceland or read our review of Hotel Ranga below, if you are looking for something a bit more up market.
Renting a car and staying in Airbnbs or guesthouses can also be a great way to save money while still having a comfortable place to stay.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, you might want to consider staying in a traditional Icelandic turf house. These historic homes, which are built into the ground and covered in grass, offer a glimpse into Iceland’s past and can be a fun way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
No matter where you decide to stay, one thing you can count on is the stunning natural beauty that Iceland has to offer. From the Northern Lights to the geothermal hot springs, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Iceland!
Hotel Ranga is a luxury countryside hotel in southern Iceland, known for its cozy ambiance and exceptional views of the surrounding landscapes and the Northern Lights in winter. Located near major natural attractions like waterfalls, volcanoes, and glaciers, it serves as a perfect base for exploring Iceland’s south coast. The hotel offers comfortable, rustic-style rooms and suites, a gourmet restaurant featuring local cuisine, and its own observatory for stargazing.
THINGS TO DO IN ICELAND
There are literally so many of the best things to do in Iceland! You are truly spoilt for choice. Whether it’s your first, second or ninetieth trip to Iceland, it is unlikely that you have seen everything. It’s an island of huge mountains, volcanic landscapes, geothermal activity, stunning sites, and the most friendly locals. Take a look, below, at some of the very best things to do in Iceland.
The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is a world-renowned geothermal spa, famous for its stunning milky-blue waters set against a backdrop of black lava fields. Rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, the warm waters are not only soothing but also believed to have healing properties for the skin. It’s a must-visit for travelers seeking relaxation, offering a unique experience of soaking in naturally heated waters while surrounded by breathtaking Icelandic landscapes. The Blue Lagoon also offers luxurious spa treatments, making it an unforgettable wellness destination.
FAMILY TRAVEL IN ICELAND
Iceland has become one of the most popular destinations in the world for adventurous families. We certainly want to take the little man to Iceland.
If you are planning to travel to Iceland with kids, you should seriously consider doing so before they turn 7. There are usually no admission fees for children under this age in Iceland and the admission fee is usually halved for children under 13. Some tours and attractions are even completely free for children under 13. These include the Blue Lagoon, the Lava Tunnel and Hallgrimskirkja observation deck.
A great time to take a trip to Iceland with your children the UK October half term. At this time of year there are far fewer tourists and you will be in with a chance of seeing the Northern Lights.
If you are travelling to Iceland with your children in summer you should consider hiring a campervan. This is the cheapest and probably most fun way to explore Iceland as a family. If, however, you are planning a winter trip this is less advisable, as it can get cold. Consider getting a self-catering accommodation instead.
One of the best things that you can do as a family in Iceland is to go bathing in Iceland’s thermal waters. The Blue Lagoon is amazing but can get expensive for a family trip. The Secret Lagoon, Myvatn Nature Baths, and Fontana Wellness Lagoon are all less known cheaper alternatives.
Whatever you decide to do in Iceland, you will want to make sure that your kids have good footwear.
FOOD TO TRY IN ICELAND
Iceland is home to its own unique cuisine made up of its own raw materials and the freshest ingredients around. It’s no wonder really, as this island has been isolated for most of its history, so make sure you try some of its most popular dishes when you go! Similar to most things, food is pretty expensive in Iceland which is why a lot of people tend to shop in groceries then cook their own meals in hostels or in their campervans. However, if you’re only in Iceland for a short amount of time, here are a few dishes that you need to try:
SKYR : Similar to Greek yogurt but technically a cheese, this high protein and low-fat delicacy is often enjoyed with milk and some fruit. You will find this anywhere in Iceland and sometimes in smoothie form. Either way, it’s delicious!
ICELANDIC FISH: Obviously, you can’t avoid eating fish in a country that is surrounded by water! Iceland has a great variety of fish available, all cooked in as many different ways as you can think of. The best part? They are all normally caught that morning!
LAMB SOUP:An Icelandic delicacy, lamb soup is a warm broth-based dish, packed full of flavor with potatoes and root vegetables. As well as it being the perfect meal for the chilly weather, it is also just downright tasty!
PYLSUR: Surprisingly, Icelandic hot dogs are a revered tradition and are a favorite among the locals. Made with both lamb and pork to create rich and flavorful dogs, pair yours with crunchy deep-fried onions, sweet brown mustard or ketchup and tuck in! Just expect long lines as it’s a popular choice!
FOOD IN REYKJAVIK
Food in Reykjavik is a blend of traditional Icelandic fare and innovative, modern cuisine. The city’s restaurants serve fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, with seafood like Arctic char, langoustine, and cod being highlights, along with lamb and dairy products. Adventurous eaters can try traditional dishes like fermented shark or dried fish. Reykjavik also has a growing reputation for its vibrant street food scene, where you can sample iconic bites like the Icelandic hot dog. For those seeking more diverse flavors, the city offers a variety of international cuisines, making Reykjavik a dynamic food destination.
WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR ICELAND TRIP
Iceland lies just below the Arctic Circle, yet thanks to the warming effects of the Gulf Stream, extreme seasonal temperature variations are rare: winters are cold but not freezing, while summers are cool. Nevertheless, Iceland is also known for its volatile climate with frequent and abrupt weather shifts, such as overcast skies, rain, strong winds and fog. Don’t be surprised if you experience 4 different seasonal climates in just one day!
You should layer your clothing whilst you are in Iceland. Make sure to bring lots of thin items that you wear over each other, as you can add or remove layers to regulate your temperature as needed. The general rule of thumb is to pack at least four layers: a base layer, long sleeve shirts, a fleece (mid-layer) and a top layer such as a windbreaker (waterproof!). Base layers should be made of wool or synthetic fabrics – these fabrics offer superior moisture-wicking and temperature control protection than cotton.
If you are travelling to Iceland in Winter consider bringing thermals that are breathable. We recommend Merino Wool thermals and a good down jacket. And don’t forget to protect your head, fingers, and toes! Investing in high-quality stuff is worth it as they will also last you for ages. You might also want to consider bringing a sleeping mask. The midnight sun (as early as May and as late as August) can make sleeping difficult.
Pack a good pair of boots with good grip that are waterproof and insulated for spring/winter travel. You can’t visit Iceland without taking a dip in one of their many thermal pools or warm springs, so bring a swimsuit. A pair of binoculars is great to have if you plan on going on cruises, and/or hiking, boating or nature tours.
If you are planning a longer trip and want to pack light, make sure to bring some laundry detergent. There are no self serve laundromats in Iceland, only dry cleaning. So you will find yourself washing your socks and undies in the sink/bathtub when needed. We actually love bringing our Scrubba Washbag for this kind of situation.
When packing for a hiking trip, it’s important to bring the right gear to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Essential items include a sturdy pair of hiking boots or shoes, a backpack to carry gear, plenty of water and snacks, a map and compass or GPS device, and appropriate clothing for the weather. Other useful items include a first aid kit, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a headlamp or flashlight in case of low light conditions.
THE BEST GUIDE BOOKS FOR ICELAND
Planning a trip to Iceland can be overwhelming with so many things to see and do. To make the most of your time and experience all that Iceland has to offer, it’s essential to have a reliable source of information.
On this blog we try to cover as much information as we can and provide information based on our own experience travelling to Iceland.
While travel blogs can provide a wealth of information, they often cannot compare to the convenience and comprehensiveness of a good guidebook. Guidebooks offer detailed information about a country’s history, culture, attractions, and transportation systems, as well as maps, recommendations, and insider tips from experts. They can be easily carried around and referred to at any time, even when you don’t have access to the internet.
There are many guidebooks available for Iceland, each with its own unique style and features. Below we have highlighted some of the best guidebooks for Iceland, to help you plan your trip and get the most out of your visit to this amazing country.