Iceland travel tips for first-timers: What to know

Planning an Iceland trip? Good choice—Iceland may be small, but it’s packed with epic experiences. Think glaciers, volcanoes, black sand beaches, and geothermal pools, all within reach. With just over 360,000 people calling the island home, it’s easy to slip off the grid and into nature. Depending on the season, you could be soaking in a hot spring, chasing the Northern Lights, or hiking past thunderous waterfalls. Here’s our roundup of the best Iceland travel tips to help you plan your trip right.

When is the best time to visit Iceland?

It depends on what kind of trip you’re planning. Summer (June to August) is when the days are longest—basically 24 hours of daylight—and you’ll get milder weather, usually in the 50s°F (around 10–15°C). This is a good time for Iceland road trips, hiking, and getting into the highlands. It’s also the busiest time, so you can expect crowds at the main attractions and higher prices.

Winter (November to March) flips things around. You’ll only have a few hours of daylight, but this is when people come to try to see the Northern Lights. It’s also quieter. Fall (September to October) and early spring (March to April) can be a nice in-between. Fewer people around, cooler weather, and still a chance to catch the aurora.

If you're basing your Iceland itinerary on wildlife, whales are around from May through September, and puffins nest along the coast between May and early August.

Weather in Iceland changes quickly, so even in summer, bring layers and waterproof clothing. You could see sunshine, wind, rain, and snow—all in the same day.

Is Iceland expensive?

Iceland isn’t particularly cheap. It’s one of the more expensive countries in Europe, especially compared to Sweden or Denmark. Still, there are ways to manage your budget depending on how you like to travel.

• Budget (ISK 15,000–25,000 / $180–230 per day): You’re probably staying in hostels or camping, making your own meals, using public transport or hitchhiking, and sticking to free outdoor activities.
• Mid-range (ISK 25,000–40,000 / $230–375 per day): Think guesthouses or Airbnbs, a mix of cooking and eating out, renting a car, and picking a few paid activities like the Blue Lagoon or a guided glacier walk.
• Luxury (ISK 40,000+ / $450+ per day): At this level, you’ll be looking at boutique hotels or cabins, high-end dining, private tours, and things like helicopter rides or spa experiences.

Traveling in May or September can help cut costs. You’ll miss the peak season rush but still get decent daylight and access to most places.
 

Is Iceland safe for travelers?

Yes, Iceland is very safe. Crime is rare, and you’re unlikely to run into any issues as a visitor. Most people don’t worry about theft or personal safety, even in bigger towns like Reykjavík.

What can be risky is the nature. The weather shifts fast, the waves are stronger than they look, and hiking trails can get icy or muddy without warning. Beaches like Reynisfjara are known for sudden waves that have swept people into the ocean, so it’s important to follow local signs and warnings. The Icelandic Met Office and Road Administration post daily updates—definitely worth checking before heading out.

Understanding Iceland's laws

Iceland has clear rules to protect the landscape and wildlife. Driving off-road is illegal and taken seriously—it damages moss and soil that can take decades to recover.

Social laws are also pretty progressive, with strong protections for all genders and sexual orientations.

A few other laws to know:

• Alcohol: You need to be 20 to buy alcohol, and it’s sold only at government-run shops called Vínbúðin. These stores close early, so plan ahead.
• Speed limits: Usually 90 km/h (55 mph) on rural roads and 50 km/h (30 mph) in towns. Fines can add up quickly if you go over.
• Nature rules: Don’t move rocks, mess with wildlife, or leave marked paths in protected areas. It’s not just about respect—these are legal rules with real consequences.
• Drones: You’ll need a permit in many areas, especially national parks. Check local rules before flying one.
• Northern Lights etiquette: If you're out viewing the aurora, try to keep your headlights off and your voice down so others can enjoy it too.

Do you need a visa for Iceland?

If you’re from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or most of Europe, you don’t need a visa for short trips. You can stay up to 90 days in any 180-day window, as long as your passport is valid for at least three months past the day you leave.

If you're from another country, check visa rules early. Applications can take time, and you’ll need proof of funds and a return ticket.

Staying longer

To stay more than 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a longer-term visa or permit. Some common routes are through studying at an Icelandic university, getting a job, or joining a family member who lives there. These applications take time and paperwork, so don’t leave it to the last minute.

How to stay healthy while traveling in Iceland

It’s pretty easy to stay healthy while traveling here,  though weather changes fast, even in summer. Staying healthy in Iceland means bringsing layers, including a waterproof jacket and decent shoes if you’re heading outdoors. Hypothermia isn’t just a winter issue here—it can happen on a windy summer hike if you’re soaked and underdressed (see our Iceland travel health tips). Also, don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses. The sun’s stronger than it feels, especially with all the glare from snow and ice.

If you’re planning to visit hot springs, know that hygiene rules are strict. You’ll need to shower thoroughly (naked) before getting in—that’s not optional. And leave jewelry behind; the sulfur in the water can mess it up (see our guide to the dos and don’ts of spas in Iceland).
 

Pharmacies and medical care

Pharmacies (Apótek) are easy to find in towns and cities. Look for a green cross. Most are open during regular hours, and Reykjavík always has at least one open around the clock. Pharmacists are helpful and can give advice for small things, but some meds you’d grab off the shelf at home might need a prescription here.

Healthcare is high quality, but costs can add up fast if you’re not covered. EU citizens with an EHIC card pay less. If you’re not from the EU, make sure your travel insurance covers both routine care and emergency evacuations—especially if you’ll be exploring remote areas. Air transport isn’t cheap. In an emergency, dial 112. English-speaking operators will direct you to the help you need.

Are there any vaccinations needed for Iceland?

You don’t need anything special. Iceland doesn’t have any diseases that require extra shots beyond the usual travel ones. Just make sure you’re up to date on:

• Routine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, chickenpox)
• Flu shot if you’re visiting in winter

The climate and isolation keep a lot of common travel bugs away, so it’s low-risk in that sense.

Food and water safety

Food and water safety isn’t something you’ll need to worry about here. The tap water comes straight from natural springs and glaciers—it’s perfectly fine to drink. You can even refill your bottle from most rivers and streams while hiking, as long as you’re not near a geothermal area. Those sometimes contain minerals that aren’t great to ingest.

Iceland’s food standards are high. Even the more traditional dishes, like fermented shark or sour ram’s testicles, are made using methods that have been refined over generations. Most meals focus on fresh, local ingredients—especially seafood and lamb—and restaurants keep clean kitchens.

Dietary needs are usually understood. If you’ve got allergies or follow a special diet, you’ll be able to find places that accommodate—just be clear when you explain. Gluten-free travelers, including people with celiac disease, won’t have too much trouble finding safe options.

Cultural etiquette to know before visiting Iceland

There are a few habits that are second nature to Icelanders and might feel a bit different if you’re visiting for the first time. Taking off your shoes when entering someone’s home is standard—don’t wait to be asked. At public pools, you’re expected to shower completely naked before getting in. It’s a strict hygiene rule and everyone follows it, with gendered shower areas and instructions on what to wash.

Tipping isn’t part of daily life. It’s already factored into prices, so you don’t need to leave anything extra at restaurants or in taxis. That said, rounding up is common and appreciated. Icelanders also take punctuality seriously. If you’re meeting someone or going on a tour, show up on time.

Outside, people are mindful about protecting nature. Stick to marked paths and try not to disturb anything, even moss or stones. Indoors, it’s warm—often surprisingly warm—so wear layers you can peel off easily.
 

Is Iceland a good destination for families?

Iceland works well for family trips, especially if your kids like being outside and don’t mind a bit of wind and rain. The landscapes are strange enough to feel like a real-life fantasy, and there’s plenty to learn along the way—volcanoes, glaciers, geysers, and renewable energy are all part of daily life here.

Most towns have public pools with slides and hot tubs, and they’re a big hit with kids. Folklore adds to the fun too—stories about trolls and elves pop up in all kinds of places.

Restaurants are generally relaxed about kids. You might not find a full kids’ menu, but you’ll usually find something simple that works.

Where to stay and getting around with families

You’ll find family-friendly places to stay all around Iceland—guesthouses, self-catering apartments, and hotels with rooms that fit extra beds. Farm stays can be a good pick if your kids like animals or just being out in the countryside.

In Reykjavík, the Laugardalur area is convenient if you’ve got little ones—it has a big pool complex, a park, and even a small zoo.

Renting a car makes things a lot easier. You can stop when needed, take your time, and explore places that aren’t connected by bus. Rental companies usually have child seats, but bringing your own might be cheaper if you’re staying a while.

Iceland’s main highway—the Ring Road—is in good condition and connects most of the country. Just be aware that some drives between attractions are long, and younger kids might get antsy.

Reykjavík itself is easy to walk around with a stroller, and city buses are set up for families too. If you’re heading into the countryside, check the weather and road conditions often—things can change fast, especially in winter.

Essentials for parents

You’ll want everyone in your group to have windproof and waterproof outer layers—yes, even in summer. Underneath that layers of thermals, something warm, and then a shell. Older kids will need waterproof boots, and younger ones do best in those all-in-one rain suits so they can crawl around without getting soaked.

Don’t forget swimsuits—one per person isn’t always enough if you’re using them daily and don’t have a dryer. Sunglasses and sunscreen matter too, even when it’s cloudy, since UV rays can be strong here. A baby carrier works better than a stroller on rough terrain, especially if you’re visiting waterfalls or lava fields.

In winter, go for insulated snow boots, wool socks, gloves, and balaclavas. In summer, blackout curtains aren’t common, so bring an eye mask to help kids sleep during the long daylight hours.
 

What are the best places to visit in Iceland?

Iceland’s best places are spread out, but each one shows a different side of the country. You’ll definitely want to mix a few regions to get a real feel for the landscape and pace.
 

Cities

Iceland’s cities are small by global standards, but they each have their own character. Most travelers base themselves in Reykjavík, but it’s worth looking beyond the capital. You’ll find fishing towns, cultural hubs, and even ski areas that feel surprisingly lively for their size.

• Reykjavík: The capital’s easy to get around and is known for colorful buildings, local design shops, and public pools that locals actually use. Hallgrímskirkja and Harpa are worth a look, but some of the better moments come from daily life.
• Akureyri: Up north, Akureyri feels more laid-back than Reykjavík but still has plenty going on. It sits at the end of a long fjord and stays greener than you'd expect for its location. The botanical gardens are small but surprisingly diverse. In winter, the nearby ski hill doubles as a place to catch the northern lights. During summer, you might catch a free Friday concert at the town’s wooden church.
• Húsavík: Best known for whale watching, Húsavík is a fishing town that’s leaned into its connection to the sea. The Whale Museum, set in an old industrial building, goes deep into local marine life and whaling history. You can also soak in the GeoSea thermal pools, which use naturally warm seawater and look out over the bay.
   

Beaches and islands

Iceland’s coastline changes quickly—black sand beaches, quiet inlets, and craggy offshore islands all show up within a few hours’ drive. The beaches are often too cold for swimming, but they’re still worth seeing. See our guide to Iceland’s best beaches.

• Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands): Just off the south coast, these volcanic islands are dramatic and mostly quiet. Heimaey is the only inhabited one, and it still shows the effects of a major eruption in the ‘70s. You’ll see puffins here in summer, and the cliffs are full of birdlife. If you like being on the water, kayaking between the islands can be a good way to see the coastline and a few sea caves you can’t reach any other way.
• Reynisfjara: This beach near Vík is known for its black sand, stacked basalt columns, and jagged sea stacks just offshore. It looks like something out of a fantasy movie, but it’s also dangerous. Sneaker waves are real here—don’t get too close to the water. Try going early or late in the day to avoid crowds.
• Rauðasandur (Red Sand Beach): In the Westfjords, this beach stands out with reddish-golden sand that changes color depending on the light. It’s a bit of a drive down on a rough road, but once you’re there, it’s usually quiet—even in summer. If you time it right with the tides, you might see seals lying out on the sandbars.

Nature and adventure

A big part of traveling in Iceland is just being outside. Glaciers, waterfalls, craters, and geothermal areas are everywhere, and even short walks can lead to incredible views. Some places are easy to reach, others need a bit more effort—but the payoff is usually worth it.

• Vatnajökull National Park: This park takes up a big chunk of Iceland and includes the country’s largest glacier. If you’re heading to the Skaftafell area, you’ll find glacier hikes that are easy to get to and a short walk to Svartifoss, a waterfall framed by dark basalt columns. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is nearby—big chunks of ice float around before drifting out to sea.
• Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park: Þingvellir is where you can actually see the ground pulling apart along the divide between two tectonic plates. It’s also where Iceland’s first parliament gathered back in 930 CE. The area is full of walking paths and historical markers. If you're up for it, you can snorkel or dive in the Silfra fissure—clear, glacial water between the continents.
• Landmannalaugar: Out in the Highlands, this area is known for its rainbow-colored mountains and warm river that runs through the valley. You can soak in the water after hiking, which is pretty welcome after dealing with the wind and dust. It’s not the easiest place to reach—you’ll need a 4WD to drive yourself, or you can take a summer bus or book a tour in one of those high-clearance jeeps.
• Mývatn: Up north, Mývatn has a little bit of everything—lava fields, steaming vents, craters, and shallow lakes. The Nature Baths here are a more relaxed and cheaper alternative to the Blue Lagoon, and they’re rarely packed. Dimmuborgir, with its strange lava formations, is tied to Icelandic folklore—the Christmas trolls supposedly live here. Not far from there is Víti, a bright blue crater lake near the Krafla volcano that’s easy to reach on foot.
   

Historic and religious sites

Iceland’s history shows up in old farms, churches, and sagas linked to real places. Some sites go back to Viking times, while others are tied to Christianity’s arrival or Iceland’s early parliament.

• Hallgrímskirkja: This church stands out in Reykjavík’s skyline and is often used by travelers to get their bearings. The design was inspired by basalt lava columns, which makes sense once you’ve seen a few of those in the wild. This is one of the best things to do in Reykjavik.
• Reykholt: This quiet village was once home to Snorri Sturluson, the writer responsible for preserving a lot of what we know about Norse mythology. His old hot spring is still there, along with a tunnel that used to connect it to his house.
• Skálholt: For a long time, this was one of the main centers of religion and learning in Iceland. Today there’s a small church and museum, and excavations nearby show the layout of earlier buildings. If you’re passing through in summer, there’s usually a music festival that draws a small crowd.
• Þjóðveldisbærinn (Commonwealth Farm): This is a reconstruction of a Viking-era farm, based on one that was buried by a volcanic eruption in the 1100s. It’s a simple turf-roofed structure, but walking through it gives you a feel for how early Icelanders actually lived. Staff in traditional dress explain how people cooked, stayed warm, and got by in such a tough climate.

How long to spend in Iceland?

If it’s your first trip, a 14 day Iceland itinerary is a good starting point. That gives you time to check out Reykjavík, drive the Golden Circle, and head along the South Coast to see waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches. You’ll be able to take things in without feeling like you’re rushing from place to place.

Some regions that are worth making time for include the Golden Circle (Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss), the South Coast (from Seljalandsfoss to Jökulsárlón), and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, which packs a bit of everything into one area. If you’ve got a few extra days, you could also head up to Lake Mývatn or out to the Westfjords for something more remote.

If you’re short on time — say 7 to 10 days Iceland itienrary — you can still have a good experience by focusing on Reykjavík and the South Coast. You could base yourself in the city and take day trips, or do a short road trip without too many hotel changes.

Trying to fit everything into fewer than 4 days can feel overwhelming. The country’s landscape is big and dramatic, and it’s worth giving yourself time to really take it in. Most people who only stop over wish they’d stayed longer.
 

What’s the best way to plan an Iceland itinerary?

How to plan a trip to Iceland is to do it one step at a time. This isn’t something you’ll want to figure out in one day, but instead slowly over time in steps.

Make a wish list

Start with what you’re actually excited about — glaciers, hot springs, wildlife, hiking, photography, or whatever brings you to the country. Iceland is full of different kinds of landscapes, and they’re pretty spread out, so it helps to know what’s most important to you.
A good first step is adding what you’re interested in on a map so you can see what’s close to each other. Iceland is pretty spread out generally.

The Ring Road framework

The Ring Road (Route 1) loops around the entire country and connects most major regions. It’s just over 800 miles (1,332 km) and passes through everything from coastlines to mountains.

While you technically can drive the whole thing in a day, that’s not really the point — if you want to enjoy it, you’ll need at least a week long Ring Road itinerary. Ten to fourteen days lets you take your time.

The road is paved and usually in good shape, but conditions in winter can make driving slower — snow, wind, and limited daylight are all factors to keep in mind.

Factor in travel time

Distances can be misleading. A place that looks close on the map might take a lot longer to reach than you’d think, especially with weather, winding roads, or spontaneous photo stops. A good rule is to check the driving time on a map, then add about half again for breaks and delays.

Speed limits are generally around 55 mph (90 km/h) outside cities, and things slow down on gravel roads or over narrow bridges.

Weather plays a huge role too. In winter, road conditions can change fast, and daylight hours are short. It’s smart to leave some wiggle room in your plans and have a few backup ideas in case something gets canceled or a road closes.

Can I drive in Iceland?

You can drive in Iceland with most international licenses, and renting a car is one of the most practical ways to get around. It gives you the freedom to stop whenever something catches your eye. But it’s not always a breeze—weather and road conditions can change quickly, especially in winter.

If you're heading into more remote areas or planning to use F-roads (those rough mountain roads), you’ll need a 4×4. Always check road.is before heading out, and it’s smart to download the 112 Iceland app in case you run into any trouble.

Driving is usually more flexible and can work out cheaper if you're traveling in a group. The flipside is you’re responsible for figuring out directions, dealing with unexpected road closures, and staying safe on unfamiliar roads.

If that sounds like too much, you can still get around Iceland by joining a tour or using the bus network. Public transport is limited but does connect the main sights, especially along the Golden Circle and South Coast.
 

Book essentials first

Getting to Iceland have become more frequent, with Icelandair and a few low-cost airlines flying direct from North America and Europe. Most flights land at Keflavík International Airport, which is about 45 minutes from Reykjavík. Booking three to four months ahead usually gets you better fares.

Once flights are sorted, look at Iceland accommodations—especially if you're traveling in the summer months. Places along the South Coast and other popular areas can fill up fast. Accommodation ranges from hotels and guesthouses to farm stays and apartments. In more rural areas, there may only be one or two places to stay in a whole area, so it’s a good idea to book early if you know your route.

How to slow travel in Iceland?

Iceland is one of those places that’s best taken in slowly. The landscapes are dramatic, but it’s the quieter moments—the sound of birds early in the morning, the shifting light over a lava field—that tend to make the trip worth it. Giving yourself time to pause and really take in your surroundings often leads to a deeper experience.

Remote work has made longer stays more doable, especially in Reykjavík and Akureyri, where the internet’s reliable and coworking spaces are easy to find. If you stay a bit longer, you’ll start to notice how things change with the seasons—from the midnight sun in summer to the northern lights in winter. It also gives you a better feel for daily life beyond the main sights.

Local experiences

There are lots of ways to connect with Icelandic life if you know where to look. In small towns, people take part in something called rúntur—basically cruising slowly along the main street on weekend evenings. It’s a kind of social ritual. You can join in by walking the same route and popping into local cafés along the way.

In the East Fjords during late spring, some farms let visitors help with eiderdown collecting. It’s done carefully, without disturbing the ducks, and the tradition goes back to Viking times. The down is used in bedding around the world, but here, it’s a community activity done by hand.

In the north, around January or February, some towns hold Þorrablót—a midwinter feast with preserved foods like fermented shark and sheep’s head. These gatherings usually include singing and storytelling, and some are open to travelers.

In fishing villages in the Westfjords, you can go out on sea-angling trips with local crews who still fish using methods passed down through generations. They’ll often show you how they dry fish the traditional way too—on wooden racks outdoors, using the wind and sea air.

In Laugarvatn, there’s a long-standing tradition of baking bread using geothermal heat. Locals bury dough-filled pots near hot springs and dig them up hours later as finished rye bread.
 

How to handle money and payments in Iceland

You really don’t need to carry cash in Iceland. Just about everything—gas stations, food stands, public restrooms—takes card. Even tiny places in the middle of nowhere usually accept contactless payment. Visa and Mastercard are safe bets. American Express works sometimes, but not everywhere.

The currency is the Icelandic króna (ISK), but most people never need to withdraw it. If you’d rather have a bit of cash on hand, there are ATMs in towns and near major attractions.

Iceland travel tip: when you’re paying, always choose to be charged in ISK instead of your home currency—the automatic conversion usually gives you a worse rate.

Tipping isn’t expected, so don’t stress about it. Service charges are already built into prices, and people working in restaurants and hotels earn decent wages. If you round up or leave a little extra for great service, that’s totally fine—it just isn’t expected.

What are the most common scams?

Iceland doesn’t really have tourist scams in the usual sense. Crime is low, and most people are honest. The only time you might run into trouble is in busy bars in Reykjavík at night or if you leave valuables in a visible place in your car at a popular stop.

What trips up visitors more often are price-related surprises. Food, drinks, and tours can get expensive fast, especially if you’re not prepared. Rental car companies sometimes push unnecessary insurance or charge for scratches that were already there, so it’s smart to take photos of the car before driving off.
 

How to travel responsibly and ethically in Iceland

Being a respectful traveler in Iceland mostly comes down to protecting the landscape and supporting local communities. The terrain might look tough, but a lot of it is actually really sensitive. That soft, spongy moss you’ll see everywhere can take decades to grow back if it’s damaged. So stick to the paths, don’t step over ropes, and follow any seasonal closures—they’re usually in place to protect birds or help nature recover.

You might come across the “Icelandic Pledge.” It’s basically a common-sense reminder for visitors: don’t drive off-road, camp only where it’s allowed, and take your trash with you. Iceland has plenty of water, but hot water—especially in the countryside—is geothermal, and it’s not endless. Try to keep showers short, especially in guesthouses that rely on small systems.

If you’re booking places to stay or planning tours, look for local businesses or Iceland travel experts rather than big international ones. Eating at places that focus on Icelandic ingredients is another easy way to support the economy. There's a label called “Vakinn” that helps you identify companies that take sustainability seriously.

Iceland travel tip: When it comes to souvenirs, skip the mass-produced stuff and look for handmade items with the “Handverk og Hönnun” label. That way, you know your money’s going directly to Icelandic makers.

What food should I try in Iceland?

Icelandic food is shaped by long winters, short summers, and a whole lot of fish. Traditional dishes came from figuring out how to make the most of what was available—preserving fish and meat, baking with geothermal heat, and using every part of the animal.

• Plokkfiskur: This is a basic fish and potato mash you’ll find all over. It’s usually made with cod or haddock, boiled potatoes, onions, and a white sauce—kind of like béchamel. It started as a way to use up leftovers but now it’s a comfort dish. You’ll usually get it with dark rye bread on the side.
• Hangikjöt: Smoked lamb that’s been around for centuries. The name literally means “hung meat” because it’s smoked while hanging over birch and dried sheep dung fires. It’s a Christmas classic but you can find it at other times too, usually sliced thin.
• Skyr: This thick dairy product looks like yogurt but isn’t quite the same. It’s higher in protein and not as tangy. Icelanders eat it for breakfast or dessert, often with berries.
• Kleinur: These twisted fried pastries are a staple with coffee. They’re a bit like doughnuts, often spiced with cardamom, and come out crispy on the edges.
• Rúgbrauð: A dense, sweet rye bread that’s traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat. It’s slowly cooked for about a day, which gives it a dark color and soft texture. People usually eat it with butter or slices of smoked fish.
• Hákarl: Fermented shark. This one’s intense. Made from Greenland shark that’s poisonous when fresh, it’s buried for a few weeks and then dried for several months. It smells strongly of ammonia and has a chewy texture. Usually served in tiny cubes alongside a shot of Brennivín (Icelandic schnapps). It’s one of the more unusal foods in the world, but it’s still a part of food culture — at least for special occasions or curious visitors.

Do I need a SIM card in Iceland? How do I stay connected?

It’s easy to stay connected in Iceland, even when you’re far from the main towns. If you’re planning to use your phone regularly, a local SIM card is usually the most affordable option. Providers like Síminn, Nova, and Vodafone have prepaid plans made for visitors, and they usually include plenty of data. You can pick one up at the airport, in Reykjavík, or at gas stations and convenience stores around the country.

If your phone is eSIM-compatible, you can set everything up before your flight. Services like Airalo, Nomad, and Maya Mobile let you download a local plan and activate it as soon as you land—no need to visit a shop.

Wi-Fi is widely available in Iceland. Most hotels, restaurants, cafés, and even gas stations have it. Remote guesthouses usually do too, though sometimes the connection slows down if a lot of people are online.

Thermal pools in Iceland

The Blue Lagoon gets most of the attention, but there are plenty of other places to soak. The Secret Lagoon in Flúðir is quieter and set in a more low-key natural environment. In the north, Mývatn Nature Baths are a good alternative, with wide views and mineral-rich water.

If you’re in Reykjavík, check out the neighborhood pools. These are where locals go to unwind after work. They usually have hot tubs, saunas, and lap pools, and they’re geothermally heated. It’s a great way to experience everyday Icelandic life. Entry is inexpensive, and you don’t need to book in advance. See our guide to the best hot pools in Iceland.

What should I know about eating out in Iceland?

Eating out in Iceland can get expensive fast, especially if you’re stopping at restaurants for every meal. A simple lunch might cost more than you expect, and dinner adds up quickly. One way to save is to take advantage of the many bakeries and gas station cafés around the country—they usually have decent sandwiches, soups, or hot meals at lower prices.

If you’re self-driving, picking up groceries and cooking some of your own meals helps keep costs down. Most guesthouses and Airbnbs have kitchen access, and local chains like Bónus and Krónan are your best bet for affordable food shopping. You’ll find basics like skyr (a thick yogurt), bread, eggs, and smoked fish in almost every store.