Iceland Travel Guide
Essential travel information — emergency numbers, safety, currency, visas, customs and getting around.
Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world with very low crime rates. The main safety concerns are related to its natural environment, such as unpredictable weather, strong winds, sudden changes in road conditions, and hazardous geothermal areas. Always check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling, especially outside urban areas.
Icelandic Króna (ISK)
Type C and F
Tipping is not customary in Iceland as service charges are usually included in prices. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip will be appreciated.
Local SIM cards from providers like Síminn, Vodafone, or Nova offer good coverage, even in rural areas. Prepaid SIMs are widely available at the airport or convenience stores. eSIMs are also a convenient option for many international travelers.
Iceland is part of the Schengen Area. Visitors from many countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Check specific visa requirements based on your nationality prior to travel.
Right
Public transport is limited outside of the capital area. Reykjavík has an efficient bus system (Strætó). Intercity buses connect some major towns, but services can be infrequent, especially outside of peak tourist seasons.
Renting a car (preferably a 4x4 for highland roads or winter travel) is the most popular and flexible way to explore Iceland's diverse landscapes. Domestic flights connect Reykjavík to larger towns like Akureyri and Egilsstaðir. Ferries also serve some coastal areas and islands.
- • Punctuality is valued in social and business settings.
- • It is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home.
- • Respect for nature is paramount; do not litter or damage natural formations.
- • Bathing in public swimming pools requires showering naked beforehand for hygiene reasons.
Casual and practical. Layered clothing is essential due to the highly unpredictable weather. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are highly recommended, even in summer.
While the National Church of Iceland (Evangelical Lutheran) is the largest denomination, Icelandic society is largely secular. Generally, there are no strict religious etiquette rules for visitors, but respect is always appreciated in places of worship.
Football (Soccer) and Handball are very popular, with strong national teams. Swimming is also a national pastime, often in geothermally heated pools. — Icelanders embrace outdoor activities. Hiking, glacier walking, horse riding, cycling, and bathing in hot springs and geothermal pools are integral to the recreational culture. Fishing and golf are also popular seasonal activities.
December 31st
New Year's Eve
Icelanders celebrate New Year's Eve with massive fireworks displays, particularly in Reykjavík, where private fireworks light up the sky for hours. Bonfires are also common.
June 17th
Icelandic National Day (Þjóðhátíðardagurinn)
Celebrates Iceland's independence from Danish rule. Festivities include parades, traditional costumes, street performances, and family-friendly events across the country, especially in Reykjavík.
Late August
Culture Night (Menningarnótt)
Reykjavík's largest festival, featuring a full day of cultural events, concerts, art exhibitions, and performances throughout the city, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display over the harbor.