Iceland Travel Guide

Iceland may be one of those destinations that has long been on your travel bucket list, yet you just haven’t taken the plunge and booked it. If this sounds like you, now is the perfect time to make this a reality. Visiting Iceland could be a dream holiday, and our comprehensive Iceland Travel Guide will give you numerous reasons to bring this dream to fruition.

The name “Iceland” has long belied the beauty of this volcanic island destination. Iceland is renowned for its landscape, which is rich with natural wonders, stunning mountain scenery, magnificent waterfalls, rugged volcanic terrain, black sandy beaches formed from volcanic rock, and pastoral scenes of fields and pastures set against these striking backdrops.

Prepare to maximize your Icelandic adventure with these essential tips. This Iceland Travel Guide will help you easily navigate the land of fire and ice, ensuring you enjoy yourself and make the most of your time and money.

Iceland Travel Guide – know before you go:

Booking Packages:

Look for package deals that bundle flights, hotels, and attractions to stretch your travel budget. Our package included direct flights from Toronto to Iceland, accommodation in downtown Reykjavik, and attractions like the Blue Lagoon and a Northern Lights boat tour. We also rented a car separately to explore additional sites and towns.

Hotels:

Numerous options are available, ranging from hotels and hostels to boutique accommodations, B&Bs, apartments, and Airbnbs. For first-time visitors looking to explore Reykjavik, a centrally situated hotel facilitates easy access to activities and sightseeing without the hassle of parking. Many attractions in Reykjavik are within walking distance of the city centre.

Breakfast:

Select a hotel that provides breakfast to begin your day on the right foot, eliminating the stress of searching for a morning meal. After that, concentrate on discovering excellent places for lunch and dinner.

Swimwear:

Pack your swimwear no matter the season. While hotel pools are nice, you’ll want your suit for the mineral-rich waters of Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon.

Rent a Car:

Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. The Golden Circle, Geysir, Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, Ring Road, waterfalls, and glaciers are all accessible by car, allowing flexibility in your itinerary.

Brace for Sticker Shock:

Iceland can be pricey, from food and attractions to petrol. Be prepared for higher costs, but don’t let that deter you from enjoying your trip.

Exchange Rate:

Use the XE app to check exchange rates, which helps convert ISK to your home currency. For example, 10,000 ISK is roughly $100 CAD.

Shopping for Souvenirs & Gifts:

Resist the urge to buy souvenirs at large tourist stores in Reykjavik. Instead, explore the countryside for more affordable options, wherever possible. You will save a fair bit of money.

Shop at the Airport:

Contrary to expectation, Reykjavik Airport often has prices 25-30% cheaper than in town.

Food Items:

Iceland is known for its salt, spices, sweet treats, chocolates, and other food items. You may want to bring back licorice, chocolates, and other sweets as souvenirs of your visit. Visiting Bónus grocery stores will save you a lot of money if you want to buy these items. In one plaza, we saw the same chocolates, licorice, and salts at Ice Wear for more than double the price of the grocery store across the aisle.

Check out our Tips for Finding the Perfect Travel Souvenirs

Gas:

Keep an eye on your fuel gauge when traveling outside cities. Petrol stations are scarce in the countryside, so refuel when you can. Our hybrid car’s small tank emptied faster than expected, so we aimed for no less than half a tank.

Hotel Parking:

Parking in Reykjavik can be challenging, especially at dinner time. Our hotel lacked onsite parking, leading to a daily search for spots. An underground garage nearby worked initially, but overnight parking wasn’t allowed. Street parking is free from 6 PM to 7 AM, and we never got a ticket when we stayed until 10 AM.

Cash vs. Credit:

Iceland is nearly cashless. Almost every business accepts credit cards, so there’s no need to withdraw large amounts of ISK.

Tipping:

Tipping isn’t common in Iceland, but is acceptable if you feel inclined. It’s not expected or encouraged.

Universal Outlet Adapters:

Pack at least one universal AC outlet adapter, and consider bringing more depending on your devices.

Iceland Travel Guide – Best things to do in Iceland

Exploring Reykjavik:

Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant capital, is an irresistible mix of history, culture, and modern flair. As you stroll through its colourful streets, you’ll be captivated by iconic landmarks like the towering Hallgrímskirkja Church and immersed in the city’s rich history, culture, and arts at museums like the Perlan, the art museum, or other unique museums. Take a food tour of Reykavik (either an organized, or self-guided) and enjoy the unique culinary delights that Iceland is famous for. Reykjavik promises an adventure brimming with unforgettable experiences.

Explore the Iceland Golden Circle:

Exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle is like stepping into a fairytale. Every turn reveals breathtaking wonders—from the tectonic rift at Thingvellir National Park to the captivating eruptions at the Geysir Geothermal Area to the thunderous beauty of Gullfoss Waterfall, all set against the backdrop of Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes.

Drive the Ring Road:

A journey along Iceland’s Ring Road is akin to diving into an ever-changing painting. Dramatic waterfalls, vast glaciers, black sand beaches, and steaming geothermal fields reveal themselves with each twist and turn, crafting a captivating tapestry of nature’s raw beauty.

See the Northern Lights in Iceland:

Witnessing the Northern Lights in Iceland is a spellbinding experience. Vibrant ribbons of green, pink, and violet dance across the night sky, transforming the dark canvas into a dazzling, otherworldly spectacle that leaves you breathless with wonder.

Boat Tours:

Embarking on an Icelandic boat tour is a thrilling journey where you can witness majestic whales breaching the ocean’s surface, glide past dramatic fjords, and marvel at serene, shimmering glaciers. Feel the invigorating sea breeze fill your lungs as you become mesmerized by the endless horizon. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring experience of a nighttime boat tour in winter to witness the Northern Lights in all their breathtaking glory.

Waterfalls & Glaciers:


Visiting Iceland’s majestic waterfalls and glaciers feels like stepping into a realm of pure natural wonder, where the thundering cascades of Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss awe you with their power and the sprawling ice formations of Vatnajökull Glacier leave you speechless in the face of their sheer beauty and grandeur.

Geysirs & Volcanoes:

Exploring Iceland’s geysers and volcanoes is an adventure you won’t forget. At the Geysir Geothermal Area, you’ll see Strokkur shoot boiling water into the sky, a sight that never gets old. And then there are the volcanoes, like Eyjafjallajökull and Hekla, which stand as powerful reminders of Iceland’s fiery beginnings. Walking among these natural wonders gives you a real sense of the earth’s raw energy and the ever-changing landscape of this incredible island.

Iceland Travel Guide: Experience Local Cuisine:

Sampling Iceland’s local cuisine is a culinary delight. You can savour hearty dishes like lamb stew and fish stew, fresh Atlantic seafood, including langoustine and Arctic char, and unique delicacies like fermented shark. Pair your meal with traditional drinks like Brennivín (a potent schnapps) or enjoy a refreshing sip of Icelandic craft beer. Icelandic Lamb sandwiches are a thing of beauty and a must-try.

No visit to Iceland is complete without indulging in the delights of its iconic food trucks, particularly for a taste of the renowned Icelandic hot dogs and waffles. Imagine biting into a juicy pylsur crowned with crispy onions, tangy mustard, and creamy remoulade, all encased in a soft bun that bursts with flavour. For a sweet finale, enjoy a fluffy waffle, golden and warm, drizzled with rich caramel sauce and perhaps a dollop of fresh whipped cream. These street eats are more than mere food—they’re a culinary experience that captures the essence of Icelandic comfort and innovation. Therefore, be sure to treat yourself to these local favourites and savour the vibrant street food culture that Reykjavik has to offer.

Soak in one of Iceland’s Geothermal Baths:

Experience the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon.

The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is a magical geothermal spa nestled within a rugged lava field just a short drive from Reykjavik. It is famous for its surreal milky-blue waters and therapeutic properties. Heated by natural geothermal energy, the lagoon stays comfortably warm at 37-39°C (98-102°F) all year round. Stepping into the Blue Lagoon is like entering another world, where steam rises from the water’s surface, and the surrounding black lava rocks provide a stunning contrast.

Taking a dip in these mineral-rich waters is reputed to work wonders for your skin, making it a highly sought-after destination for anyone seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. While you’re there, make sure you don’t miss out on the silica mud masks, savour a drink from the in-water bar, or indulge in a luxurious massage, all amidst a tranquil landscape.

When is the best time to visit? It depends on what you seek. In winter, you can bask beneath the enchanting Northern Lights and relish the contrast of warm water and cold air. In summer, you can enjoy longer daylight hours and more temperate weather. Regardless of when you visit, the Blue Lagoon guarantees a unique and unforgettable experience amid Iceland’s natural beauty.

Visiting Iceland in Winter

Bring Crampons: Pack crampons to navigate Iceland’s icy terrain. Beautiful spots abound, but ice makes exploring tricky. Even in town, snow piles up, making roads and sidewalks slippery.
Dress for the Weather: Layer your clothing to adapt to changing weather conditions. Iceland’s winter can be unpredictable, so being prepared is key.
Check Road Conditions: Before heading out, visit the Road.IS website to ensure that roads are clear and safe. Weather can make routes to volcanoes, glaciers, and the countryside impassable or dangerous.
Maximize Daylight: Daylight is limited in winter. In January, the sun rises at approximately 10:30 a.m. and sets around 4:30 p.m. Plan your outdoor activities during daylight hours, such as visiting glaciers and waterfalls. Reserve indoor activities, like museums and shopping, for when it is dark.

Check out our Tips on What to Pack for Visiting Iceland in Winter

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Iceland

Trying to Do Too Much: Iceland may seem small on the map, yet it offers an incredible range of sights and activities. Attempting to cram too much into your itinerary can result in exhaustion and detract from your overall enjoyment. Prioritise quality over quantity and allow for spontaneity.
Overpacking: While it is essential to prepare for Iceland’s weather, overpacking can prove to be a mistake. You will likely be on the move often, and bulky luggage can be cumbersome, especially if you intend to explore beyond Reykjavik. Pack wisely and lightly.
Disregarding the Environment: Iceland places great importance on environmental conservation, and visitors are expected to do likewise. Littering, driving off-road, and disturbing wildlife are both disrespectful and illegal. Be considerate and safeguard Iceland’s stunning natural beauty.
Underestimating the Weather: Iceland’s weather is unpredictable and can be severe, even in summer. Many visitors arrive poorly equipped for the winds, rain, and potential snow, resulting in discomfort and even danger. Pack suitably and be ready for all weather conditions.
Mismanaging Your Budget: Iceland is notorious for its high costs. From accommodation to food and activities, many travellers underestimate their expenses and consequently exceed their budget. Plan and budget carefully to avoid any financial surprises.

By being aware of these common mistakes and planning accordingly, you can ensure a more enjoyable and memorable trip to Iceland.

Iceland is a land of enchantment, where nature’s raw beauty and rich cultural heritage blend seamlessly to create an unforgettable adventure. We hope our Iceland Travel Guide will help you imagine yourself exploring dramatic volcanic landscapes, relaxing in soothing geothermal pools, and marveling at the Northern Lights dancing across the sky. From the breathtaking Golden Circle and majestic waterfalls to charming Reykjavik’s vibrant arts scene and delicious local cuisine, Iceland offers a treasure trove of experiences that will leave you spellbound and longing for more. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, hiking glaciers, or indulging in the unique flavors of Icelandic dishes, this extraordinary destination promises memories that will last a lifetime.

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