Discover

Iceland

Iceland is a land of fire and ice, with geothermal hot springs, massive glaciers, volcanoes, and stunning waterfalls. Whether you’re exploring the Golden Circle, soaking in the Blue Lagoon, or marveling at the Northern Lights, Iceland is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Quick Facts

Capital: Reykjavik
Currency: Icelandic Krona (ISK)
Population: Approximately 350,000
Area: 103,000 km²
Languages: Icelandic (official)
Religion: Predominantly Christian (Lutheran)
Plug Types: Type C and F; 230V, 50Hz

Hello:

Halló

Thank You:

Takk

Excuse Me:

Afsakið

Iceland

Iceland is known for its dramatic landscapes, from erupting volcanoes and glaciers to steaming geysers and hot springs. Its capital, Reykjavik, is vibrant and modern, while the country’s natural wonders are vast and untouched. Iceland is also one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights.

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Best time to visit Iceland

Festivals

Iceland Airwaves (November): A renowned music festival featuring local and international artists.
Þorrablót (January–February): A Viking-themed festival celebrating Icelandic traditions.

Weather

Iceland is best visited from May to September for milder weather and long daylight hours, including the Midnight Sun in June. Winter (November to March) is perfect for seeing the Northern Lights and enjoying winter activities. Autumn offers fewer crowds and beautiful fall foliage.

High Season (June–August): Long days and mild weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Shoulder Season (April–May, September–October): Fewer crowds, good weather, and better chances to see the Northern Lights.
Low Season (November–March): Cold weather and shorter days, but a great time to see the Northern Lights.

Public Holidays

New Year’s Day (January 1)
Independence Day (June 17)
Labour Day (First Monday in May)
Christmas Day (December 25)
Boxing Day (December 26)
Easter Sunday (date varies)
National Day (August 1)
Whit Monday (date varies)

Food

Icelandic cuisine is based on fresh, local ingredients like lamb, fish, and dairy. Try the traditional dish of hákarl (fermented shark) and skyr (Icelandic yogurt).

Culture

Iceland has a strong Viking heritage, with a deep respect for nature and sustainability. The culture values literature, art, and folklore, with many sagas and stories passed down through generations.

People

Iceland’s people are known for their resilience, hospitality, and deep connection to nature. The population is small, with most Icelanders living in the capital, Reykjavik, or smaller rural communities. Icelanders take pride in their Viking heritage and their country’s unique history, which includes a strong literary tradition, especially the medieval sagas.

Iceland is also a society that values egalitarianism, with one of the highest levels of gender equality in the world. Icelanders maintain a close relationship with the land, with many people engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and exploring the country’s numerous geothermal features.

History

Iceland was settled by Norse Vikings in the 9th century, and its unique culture developed from these early settlers. The country was ruled by Denmark until it gained independence in 1944. Iceland’s economy has traditionally been based on fishing, but it has diversified into tourism, renewable energy, and technology in recent decades.

Today, Iceland is known for its stunning landscapes, which include volcanoes, glaciers, and hot springs. It is one of the most environmentally conscious nations in the world and is a leader in renewable energy, particularly geothermal energy. Iceland has a small but vibrant population, and its quality of life is among the highest in the world.

Environment

Iceland’s landscape is dominated by dramatic volcanic features, glaciers, and geothermal hot springs. The country is home to numerous national parks and protected areas that highlight its natural beauty. It has a diverse range of wildlife, including puffins, seals, and whales, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.

Iceland has made significant strides in sustainability, focusing on renewable energy and reducing its carbon footprint. The country’s efforts to harness geothermal and hydroelectric power have made it a global leader in sustainable energy use..

How to get to Iceland

International Airports

Keflavik International Airport (Reykjavik)

Train Connections

Iceland has no rail system

Visa

U.S. citizens do not need a visa for up to 90 days for tourism or business.

Green Card holders who are not citizens of a visa-exempt country will need to apply for a visa.

Review the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration website for the most current visa information.

Getting Around

To/From Airports

Keflavik International Airport is the main international gateway to Iceland, located about 45 minutes from Reykjavik. Taxis, shuttle buses, and private transfers are available to transport visitors to the city center.

Public Transport

Reykjavik offers a bus system that connects various parts of the city, while larger towns and villages are serviced by buses that connect to major cities. Ride-sharing apps like Uber are not widely available in Iceland, but taxis and private car rentals are easy to find.

Rentals

Renting a car is highly recommended for those wishing to explore Iceland’s rural areas, particularly the Golden Circle, coastal roads, and remote regions. Campervans are a popular way to travel, offering a unique experience of the country’s natural beauty. Bicycles can also be rented in Reykjavik and other cities for urban exploration.

Safety and Travel Tips

Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world.
Always check weather conditions before venturing into remote areas.
Respect the natural environment, especially around geothermal areas and glaciers.

CURRENT TRAVEL ADVISORY

Iceland - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Please check the travel.state.gov website for the latest advisory level, as it may not be up to date.

Travel Advisory Levels

1 - Exercise Normal Precautions

2 - Exercise Increased Caution

3 - Reconsider Travel

4 - Do Not Travel

Best places to visit in Iceland

Golden Circle: A famous route that includes Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area.
Blue Lagoon: A world-famous geothermal spa near Reykjavik.
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon: A stunning lagoon filled with icebergs from Vatnajokull Glacier.
Thingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site with geological and historical significance.

Golden Circle

Blue Lagoon

Jokulsarlon Glacier

Thingvellir

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Is Iceland cheap to visit?

Iceland is known for being quite expensive, particularly for accommodation and food.

Can I drink tap water in Iceland?

Yes, Iceland has some of the cleanest tap water in the world.

Do I need a visa to travel to Iceland?

Non-EU travelers may need a Schengen visa.
American citizens: No visa needed for up to 90 days for tourism or business.
U.S. lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) who are not citizens of a visa-exempt country will need to apply for a visa.
Review the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration website for the most current visa information.

What language do they speak in Iceland?

Icelandic is the official language, but English is widely spoken.

Is Iceland safe?

Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world, with very low crime rates.

What power plug type does Iceland have?

Iceland uses Type C and F plugs, with a voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz.

Why You Should Travel to Iceland

Iceland’s unparalleled natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture make it a bucket-list destination. Whether you’re looking to explore glaciers, volcanoes, or relax in hot springs, Iceland offers unforgettable experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers.