Iceland

Travel Guide

Travel to Iceland

Nestled in the North Atlantic Ocean, Iceland is a magical land of untamed beauty, where fire and ice coexist in perfect harmony. With its rugged Mars-like landscape, bubbling hot springs, and breathtaking waterfalls, Iceland is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Whether you’re a backpacking enthusiast or seeking a cozy vacation in Iceland, this incredible island will leave you in awe.

How to plan your trip to Iceland

Follow our Iceland travel guides to plan the ultimate trip! From the charming capital city of Reykjavik, where you’ll most likely start your journey, to the remote corners of the countryside, there are plenty of things to do in Iceland.

Due to the ever-changing weather conditions and terrain, check out the Iceland packing list to ensure you don’t get caught out on your trip.

Planning to camp around Iceland? Our 2-week road trip takes you around Iceland’s ring roads and to loads of hidden gems!

Best time to visit Iceland

Iceland’s weather varies throughout the year. When planning your journey, you’ll want to consider the unique charms each season in Iceland brings.

Summer (June – August): The summer months are the prime time to experience Iceland at its most vibrant. During this period, the days are incredibly long, with the middle to the end of June experiencing the midnight sun, where it’ll never set. The summer months are also when the weather is at its mildest, at around 10 – 15°C, making it the perfect time to travel Iceland for outdoor activities and camping adventures.

Winter (December – February): The winter months offer an entirely different yet captivating experience. While the weather will be much colder at around 0°C, this is the best time to visit Iceland for the Northern Lights, a once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon. The wintery landscapes, snow-covered volcanoes, and frozen waterfalls create a magical setting.

Shoulder Seasons (Spring and Autumn): If you prefer a balance between the two extremes, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn may be your best bet. In these transitional periods, prices will be slightly lower, and the climate in Iceland is a little more bearable, but still with the potential of seeing the Northern Lights.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Iceland depends on your preferences. Whether it’s the endless daylight of summer, the snow-covered scenes in winter, or a mix of everything in the shoulder seasons, Iceland’s weather and climate provide unique opportunities for every type of traveler.

Coastlines and beaches in Iceland

Iceland boasts some of the most unique coastlines and beaches in the world. While you won’t find the typical white-sand, tropical beaches, Iceland’s shores have their own enchanting allure.

The dark, volcanic sands of beaches like Reynisfjara and Diamond Beach are some of the best places in Iceland to visit, creating a surreal contrast against the frothy waves and scattered blocks of ice that wash ashore from the glacier lagoon; it’s a truly magical sight. The geothermal beaches near Geysir are just as unique, where warm hot springs meet the cold ocean waters, creating pockets of warmth, showcasing Iceland’s natural diversity.

Iceland’s beaches also offer opportunities for adventure, whether that’s exploring sea caves, observing puffins in their natural habitat, or being brave enough to surf the arctic waters. Though it may not be your typical sun, sea, and sand destination, the raw and unspoiled charm of the coastline will leave a lasting impression on your holiday to Iceland.

Food, culture and religion in Iceland

Iceland is a land of contrasts, where food, culture, and religion are as diverse and captivating as its natural beauty.

Food: Icelands cuisine today is a unique blend of traditional Nordic flavors and modern culinary influences. However, in the past, resources for food used to be sparse; the Icelandic diet used to consist of fish, lamb, skyr yogurt, and some more controversial dishes like puffin and fermented shark. While those traditional influences are still prevalent, you’ll find much more variety thanks to new technology to grow vegetables and the availability of imported food, so don’t worry if you’re vegetarian.

Culture: Iceland is a Nordic country, meaning its culture is deeply rooted in its Viking history. The locals are proud of this heritage and love to share it with visitors, being incredibly welcoming people. The country is also known for its vibrant arts scene, with literature and music playing crucial roles. This is highlighted throughout the capital city of Reykjavik, with loads of art galleries and colorful houses, and Seydisfjordur, arguably one of the most beautiful towns in Iceland.

Religion: Iceland was originally populated by pagan Norse who worshipped a variety of gods and then went on to blend with Christianity. Today, the religion of most Icelanders is the Evangelical Lutheran Church, with around 5% of the population practicing ásatrú, the traditional Norse religion. This fusion is prominent in how they celebrate various holidays, such as Þorrablót, which features traditional feasting and festivities.

Why you should travel to Iceland

Iceland, often referred to as the Land of Fire and Ice, is a destination that should be at the top of your travel bucket list. From cascading waterfalls to the rugged Mars-like terrain, every corner of this country is breathtaking. The sheer diversity and uniqueness of Iceland’s landscapes will leave you in awe.

Whether you choose to book your Iceland vacation in the spring, summer, autumn, or winter, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the incredible sights that await you. The warmer months offer a chance to experience the endless sun and unforgettable activities, while the winter allows you the opportunity to see the Northern Lights or go glacier hiking.

What makes your Iceland travel unique is the unmatched collection of natural wonders. It’s a place where natural hot springs, powerful waterfalls, active volcanoes, and glaciers coexist harmoniously — a destination like no other.

Safety and travel advice Iceland

Iceland is not only renowned for its breathtaking landscapes but also as one of the safest countries in the world! However, it’s important to stay informed on your holiday in Iceland, particularly about natural disasters, weather, and road conditions.

Weather and Climate: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, with sudden changes even during summer. Be prepared for varying conditions, packing layers, and waterproof gear. Monitor weather updates and road conditions, especially if you plan to venture into remote areas.

Natural Disasters: Iceland is the land of active volcanoes, and eruptions can occur anytime. The country is well-prepared for volcanic events, and the authorities closely monitor volcanic activity, so always follow the advice of the local authorities. Iceland also sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which is why it experiences frequent earthquakes. Most of these are minor and go unnoticed, but occasionally, larger quakes can occur.

Tip: Register with your embassy to receive emergency updates on your trip, and always take advice on the conditions before you travel to Iceland.

Crime and Safety in Iceland: Crime rates are exceptionally low, and violent crime is nearly non-existent. However, like anywhere, it’s advisable to take standard precautions such as safeguarding your belongings and locking your vehicle.

Driving: Be cautious on Iceland’s narrow and sometimes gravel roads. Always obey road signs, adhere to speed limits, and exercise caution when passing animals. Don’t underestimate the impact of strong winds on your vehicle, and be mindful of sudden snow or rain showers.

Travel Insurance: To ensure a stress-free vacation in Iceland, investing in travel insurance is definitely worth it. This can provide coverage against unforeseen disruptions, lost luggage, and unexpected accidents. Check out the best travel insurance.