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Iceland Travel Guide

About Iceland

Active volcanoes, sparkling fjords, cascading waterfalls – everywhere you look in Iceland is another natural wonder that will take your breath away. While the capital city of Reykjavik is the most popular place to start your journey, it is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to uncovering the beauty in the land of fire and ice. Whether you’re chasing the northern lights or relaxing in the Blue Lagoon, you’ll experience Iceland’s commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices, which allow you to experience Mother Nature’s greatest feats while protecting it at the same time.

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Iceland, IS
8:12 am, Feb 12, 2025
temperature icon 20°F
overcast clouds
Humidity 97 %
Pressure 1033 mb
Wind 15 mph
Wind Gust Wind Gust: 27 mph
Clouds Clouds: 85%
Visibility Visibility: 7.203 km
Sunrise Sunrise: 9:22 am
Sunset Sunset: 5:30 pm
iceland best time to visit
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Best Time To visit

As Iceland experiences very chilly temperatures for the majority of the year, the best time to visit is typically in the summer. June, July, and August offer the most daylight hours with temperatures hovering around 55 degrees Fahrenheit. While this is by no means toasty, it is great for Iceland, whose winters frequently dip to freezing or below.
If you want to see the northern lights, then the best time of year to visit Iceland is in the winter, from September to the beginning of April. This is due to the fact that the nights are much longer during this time of the year. September and March in particular offer positive viewing conditions because there is a high level of solar activity during these months and the temperatures are warmer so you’ll feel more comfortable being outside.

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What to expect

The awe-inspiring sights in Iceland are endless: glaciers, volcanoes, black sand beaches, waterfalls, geysers…the list goes on. As you venture out into the countryside, it’s important to be aware that the weather in Iceland can be very unpredictable, so packing multiple layers of clothing for different kinds of weather is advised. Be sure to pack hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers as well. Driving can be challenging in the winter if you’re not used to the icy roads, so keep that in mind if you plan to rent a car.
Iceland is known for its geothermal energy, which creates natural spas across the country. While a relaxing soak in the famous Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon in Reykjavik is essential, there are plenty of other smaller hot springs and lagoons dotted throughout the country that are worth a stop.
As a leader in sustainability in the world, Iceland uses a combination of hydropower and geothermal energy to meet almost all of their electricity and heating needs. Not only is geothermal energy enjoyed in the spas, but it is harnessed to power multiple industries from greenhouse agriculture to the production of synthetic fuel. You’ll find that the Icelandic people are dedicated to protecting the natural resources of the island and eat lots of fresh, organic cuisine. From greenhouse-grown tomatoes to sustainable and waste-free fishing, the ingredients found in many Icelandic dishes are not only good for you, but good for the planet.

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Things to know

Before visiting Iceland for the first time, there are some important things to know about this beautiful and rugged land.

Language: The national language is Icelandic, but most Icelanders speak English as well.
Time Zone: Iceland is one Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), which is the same time zone as London and 5 hours earlier than New York.
Currency: Iceland uses the Icelandic króna (ISK).
Credit Cards: Most shops, restaurants, and hotels throughout Iceland accept credit cards, including American Express, Visa and MasterCard. However, it’s good to have cash on hand.
Plugs + Voltage: Iceland uses plug types C and F and operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.
Airports: The main international airport in Iceland is Keflavík, which is located in Reykjavik.


  • Common Sayings:

    • Góðan daginn – Good Morning
    • Halló – Hello
    • Vinsamlegast – Please
    • Takk – Thank you
    • Flugvöllur – Airport
    • ​​Talar þú ensku? – Do you speak English?

    Organic Groceries: As it is an island, there are multiple incentives for Iceland to grow its own food, rather than import. It’s cheaper, fresher, and more sustainable – plus, it often tastes better. Most farms throughout Iceland also operate without pesticides because there is simply no need – the climate is inhabitable for most pests. You’ll find plenty of choices of organic groceries marked ‘Bio’ throughout the country.
    Vegetarian/Vegan: Iceland is a vegetarian and vegan-friendly country with lots of meat-free dishes in both restaurants and grocery stores. You’ll be particularly spoiled for choice in Reykjavik, where there is a diversity of cuisine ranging from vegan pizza to fresh salads, ramen, and sweets.
    Safety: Iceland is the safest country in the world and is ranked 1st place on the Global Peace Index.
    Opening hours: Most stores are open during normal working hours from 9am – 6pm Monday  – Friday. Store hours on Saturday are typically from 10am – 4pm. Most stores are closed on Sundays.
    Sites: Blue Lagoon, Þingvellir National Park, Jökulsárlón, Gullfoss Falls, Skaftafell, Goðafoss Waterfall, Seljalandsfoss, Black Sand Beach Reynisfjara, Gljufrabui

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how to get around

Iceland is a relatively small island, which makes it possible to travel around the entire country by car or bus in less than two weeks. Here are the best ways to get around and enjoy the scenery.

Renting a Car: Renting a car is the most popular way to explore Iceland at your own pace. Most people stick to Highway No. 1, which is known as the Ring Road. This route travels along the outside of the island and allows you to stop at a lot of incredible natural sights. Just be wary of driving in the winter when the roads are icy.

Bus: The Icelandic bus system is very good and buses stop in most of the towns throughout the country. This is a great option if you don’t want to drive. You can even book a guided bus tour if you are traveling solo or want to have your trip mapped out for you.

Ferry:
If you want to go to some of the smaller islands like the Westman islands, you can take a quick ferry ride from the mainland.

Bike: Cycling is very popular in Iceland and is great if you’re going short distances, like around the city of Reykjavik. You can also book a cycling tour through the island if you desire a very active vacation.

Iceland Transportation

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