ICELAND
COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE
ABOUT
ICELAND
Iceland feels like another planet—but one that welcomes you like an old friend. This is a land shaped by fire and ice, where glaciers creak beside lava fields, and waterfalls tumble with a kind of reckless elegance. It’s dramatic, yes, but never for show. Nature sets the pace, and travelers adapt—whether chasing the northern lights through snow-covered silence, hiking to a hidden hot spring, or lingering in a geothermal pool as steam curls into the sky. There’s poetry in the contrasts: black sand beaches and white-tipped peaks, ancient sagas and sleek modern design, stillness in the air and energy in the earth. Time slows here, not because there’s less to do, but because each moment demands your full attention. Iceland doesn’t try to impress—it simply exists, raw and real. And if you let it, it will awaken something wild and wonderful you didn’t know you’d been missing.
This is a destination for travelers who don’t mind the cold if it means feeling alive. Iceland is for those who seek landscapes that shift with every mile and stories that echo through volcanoes, fjords, and sagas passed down around firelight. It offers more than just sights—it gives you space, clarity, and the kind of stillness that lingers long after. From the painted fishing boats of small coastal villages to the glass-and-concrete architecture of design-forward Reykjavik, every corner invites you to connect with nature, history, and yourself. It’s in the crackle of a campfire beneath the northern lights, the warmth of a geothermal spring on a winter morning, and the laughter of locals who have made peace with the unpredictable. If you crave wonder, simplicity, and a little bit of magic, Iceland is waiting—ready to show you how small the world is and how big your spirit can feel.
POPULAR DESTINATIONS IN
ICELAND
Blue Lagoon Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa.
Gullfoss A roaring double-drop waterfall on the Golden Circle.
Skógafoss Majestic, thunderous, and often rainbow-crowned.
Thingvellir National Park Where tectonic plates meet—and Iceland’s parliament began.
Seljalandsfoss A waterfall you can walk behind.
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Floating icebergs and surreal blue hues.
Kirkjufell Mountain Iceland’s most photographed peak—especially during aurora season.
Reykjavik Colorful, creative, and cozy. Great for culture and food.
Black Sand Beaches of Vík Dramatic waves and basalt columns.
Vatnajökull National Park Glaciers, caves, and epic landscapes.
Westfjords Remote beauty, bird cliffs, and hidden hot springs.
Secret Lagoon A lesser-known geothermal soak in a charming setting.
QUICK FACTS
TRANSPORT
Between Cities
Iceland has one major city—Reykjavík—and one major road: the Ring Road. Rent a car or campervan for maximum freedom. Domestic flights connect to Ísafjörður, Akureyri, and Egilsstaðir.
Around Cities
Reykjavík is walkable. Taxis are expensive, and rideshare services are limited. Day tours offer transit and insight for those not self-driving.
HOTELS/RESORTS/CRUISES
Hotels & Lodges
Options range from sleek design hotels in Reykjavík to rustic guesthouses in remote fjords. Luxury lodges offer geothermal spas and aurora wake-up calls.
Cruises
Expedition cruises circle Iceland in summer, stopping at puffin cliffs, fishing villages, and lava beaches. Smaller boats offer fjord tours or whale safaris from coastal towns.
SHOPPING
Shop for:
Woolen sweaters (lopapeysa), volcanic jewelry, herbal skincare, and handmade ceramics. Reykjavik’s Laugavegur street is the heart of artisan shopping.
Eat:
Try lamb stew, seafood soup, skyr yogurt, hot dogs with crispy onions, and rye bread baked in hot springs.
Drink:
Sample local beer, Brennivín (aka ‘Black Death’ schnapps), and wild herb teas. Reykjavík’s coffee culture is strong and soulful.
Time Zone
Iceland observes Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) year-round, which is GMT+0. The country does not use daylight saving time, so clocks remain the same throughout the year. This makes planning simple for travelers, but remember to check time differences with your home country, especially for flights or virtual meetings.
Vaccines
There are no specific vaccination requirements to enter Iceland, according to the U.S. Department of State (.gov). However, the CDC and WHO recommend certain vaccinations, including hepatitis A, polio, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap, and MMR. Consult your doctor before travel.
Electricity and Plugs
There are no specific vaccination requirements to enter Iceland, according to the U.S. Department of State (.gov). However, the CDC and WHO recommend certain vaccinations, including hepatitis A, polio, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap, and MMR. Consult your doctor before travel.
Climate
Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable. Summer (June–August) has long daylight hours and mild temps. Winter is cold and dark but magical for Northern Lights. Always pack layers—wind and rain can sweep in quickly, even in summer.
Safety
Iceland is incredibly safe, with virtually no violent crime. The biggest risks are environmental—changing weather, icy roads, and geothermal terrain. Always check weather forecasts, road conditions, and local alerts before venturing out, especially in remote areas.
Useful Telephone Numbers
Emergency Services: 112
Icelandic Tourist Board: +354 535 5500
Road & Travel Conditions: 1777 (within Iceland)
Country Code: +354
YOU MIGHT BE WONDERING ABOUT
ICELAND
FAQ's
Is Iceland safe for tourists?
Yes—Iceland is one of the world’s safest countries. Just respect nature: weather changes fast, and remote terrain can be tricky without preparation.
How many days do I need in Iceland?
7–10 days is perfect for the Ring Road or a South Coast adventure. Even a 4-day trip can cover Reykjavík and nearby natural wonders.
When is the best time to visit Iceland?
June–August for long days and road trips. October–March for Northern Lights. Always pack layers and plan for quick weather shifts.
POPULAR DESTINATIONS IN
ICELAND
Blue Lagoon steam against lava
Kirkjufell with northern lights
Skógafoss from the base
Glacial ice caves
Black sand beaches of Vík
Seljalandsfoss from behind
Gullfoss waterfall panorama
Street art in Reykjavík
Arctic fox in the Westfjords
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon
Ring Road scenic stops
Highlands under starlight
LEARN MORE ABOUT
TRAVELING IN
ICELAND
What we loved about this destination
An unforgettable experience! The sights, the people, and the culture were absolutely incredible.
Alex M.