ICELAND TRAVEL GUIDE
Welcome to the Iceland travel guide.
In this guide, we'll unravel the secrets of Iceland, from the otherworldly landscapes of glaciers and volcanoes to the vibrant city life of Reykjavik. Whether you're planning your first trip or returning for more, our guide is your key to unlocking the magic of this enchanting island nation.
From chasing the mesmerising Northern Lights to soaking in geothermal hot springs, trekking across lava fields, and discovering hidden waterfalls, Iceland offers an adventure at every turn. But it's not just about nature; Iceland's rich history, folklore, and modern art scene can be experienced in Iceland.
Pack your warmest coat, charge your camera, and get ready to witness landscapes that look like they're from another planet. Iceland's untamed beauty and boundless adventures await, and our guide is your trusty companion for this incredible journey.
ICELAND GENERAL INFO
Iceland is an island in Northern Europe that is located in the Atlantic Ocean near the Arctic circle.
Iceland is the second largest island in Europe - after Great Britain. In size, Iceland is slightly bigger than Hungary or South Korea and about the size of the state of Kentucky/USA.
Iceland was founded by the Vikings. People from Norway, Denmark and Sweden were the first to settle in Iceland from as early as 870. Celts (mainly Scottish and Irish people) as well as Vikings who already had settled in the British isles also moved to the country as well in the 9th and 10th century.
Iceland is covered by ice, volcanos, glaciers and geysers. About 11 % of the country is covered by glaciers.
The country has more than 20 active volcanoes. Grímsvötn and Hekla are Iceland's most active volcanoes.
HOW TO GET TO ICELAND
Here's your comprehensive guide on getting to Iceland:
BY AIR
Maybe obviously, as it’s an island but the easiest and most common way to reach Iceland is by air. Keflavik International Airport (KEF), situated about 45 minutes from the capital, Reykjavik, is the country's main gateway. You'll find a multitude of international flights arriving here, connecting Iceland to major cities in North America, Europe, and beyond.
Many airlines operate direct flights to Keflavik International Airport, making it convenient for travellers from various corners of the globe. Whether you're flying from New York, London, Paris, or Toronto, you're likely to find a direct flight to Iceland.
Icelandair, the national airline, offers a unique opportunity for travellers: stopovers. If you're en route to Europe or North America, consider making a stopover in Iceland for a few days at no extra cost. It's like getting two holidays in one!
Keep in mind that flight options and availability may vary depending on the season. Iceland is a year-round destination, but summer tends to be the peak travel season. If you're looking for budget-friendly options, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn.
If you plan to explore Iceland's more remote regions, like the Westfjords or the East, you might need to catch a domestic flight from Reykjavik's smaller airport, Reykjavik Airport (RKV). These flights connect you to various towns and villages across the island.
BY BOAT
You can get to Iceland via boat from Denmark between June and August, the ferry ride takes 2 days, leaving Hirtshals on Tuesday mornings and arriving in Seyðisfjörður on Thursday mornings. From March to May and mid-August to November, the ferry ride to Iceland takes a little longer than 3 days.
Before packing your bags, check the entry requirements for Iceland. Most travellers need a valid passport, and some nationalities may require a visa. Make sure your documents are in order well in advance. Check if you need a visa at iVisa
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT ICELAND
Iceland is a land of stark contrasts and ever-changing landscapes, and the best time to visit depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. Let's look at the different seasons in Iceland and help you decide when the perfect time for your adventure might be:
Summer (June - August): The Land of the Midnight Sun
Summer is high season in Iceland and for a good reason. The weather is milder, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 15°C), making it the ideal time for exploring the island's stunning landscapes. The days are exceptionally long, and in June, you can experience the phenomenon of the ‘midnight sun’ when the sun barely dips below the horizon. It's the perfect time for hiking, camping, and road tripping.
Autumn (September - October): Fall Foliage and Fewer Crowds
As the summer crowds begin to disperse, the autumn season brings a different kind of charm to Iceland. The landscapes transform with vibrant autumnal colours and the weather is still relatively mild. It's a great time for hiking, as the trails are less crowded and the famous Iceland airwaves music festival typically takes place in November.
Winter (November - March): The Northern Lights and Winter Wonders
Iceland's winter season is a magical time for those seeking the Northern Lights, as the long nights and dark skies provide the perfect backdrop for this natural spectacle. Winter activities such as ice cave explorations, snowmobiling, and relaxing in geothermal hot springs are popular. However, it's essential to be prepared for colder temperatures and challenging weather conditions.
Spring (April - May): Awakening from Winter's Embrace
Spring in Iceland marks the transition from winter to summer. The landscapes begin to awaken, with snow melting and nature coming back to life. It's a fantastic time for birdwatching, as migratory birds return to the island. The weather can be quite unpredictable, with a mix of rain, snow, and sunshine, so be prepared for various conditions.
Consider Your Interests
The best time to visit Iceland truly depends on your interests and what you want to experience. If you're after the midnight sun and long days of summer exploration, June to August is ideal. If you're a fan of the Northern Lights, winter is your best bet. Autumn and spring offer a balance of fewer crowds and changing landscapes.
Know Before You Go
Before you embark on your Icelandic adventure, be sure to check the weather forecast and road conditions, as they can change rapidly. Additionally, make reservations for accommodations and tours in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the busy summer season.
Honestly, it's worth visiting at any time of the year! Each season brings something so different to your Icelandic experience
WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE IN PORTUGAL RIGHT NOW?
TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO IN ICELAND
Witness the Northern Lights
Explore the Golden Circle
Soak in the Blue Lagoon
Hike a Glacier
Marvel at the Waterfalls
Roam the Black Sand Beaches
Go Inside a Volcano
Discover the Ice Caves
Experience Whale Watching
Visit the Westfjords
ACCOMODATION IN ICELAND
coming soon
WHERE TO STAY ICELAND
Reykjavik
The capital city of Iceland, Reykjavik, is a vibrant hub filled with culture, art, and a lively nightlife scene. Staying here offers access to the country's best restaurants, museums, and galleries, as well as proximity to iconic landmarks such as Hallgrímskirkja Church and Harpa Concert Hall.
Akureyri
Known as the capital of the north, Akureyri is a charming town nestled along the Eyjafjörður Fjord. It's an ideal base for exploring the incredible landscapes of northern Iceland, including the stunning Goðafoss waterfall and Lake Mývatn's geothermal wonders.
Vik
Situated along Iceland's South Coast, Vik is a quaint village surrounded by picturesque landscapes. It's a great starting point for exploring attractions like Reynisfjara's black sand beaches, Dyrhólaey's rock formations, and the nearby glaciers and waterfalls.
Husavik
This town on Iceland's north coast is famed for its whale-watching opportunities. Staying in Husavik provides access to thrilling boat tours where you can spot humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins, and more marine life in the nearby ocean.
EATING IN ICELAND
The Icelandic main dishes contain: lamb, seafood and dairy products. The bread you will get in Iceland is mostly dark rye bread or rye flat bread, which is very tasty too and you definitely should try the delicious 'Kleina' pastries. Reindeer meat is also available in Iceland, but is quite expensive.
Here are my top choices of food to try when in Iceland.
Skyr
yogurt like white cheese a bit like low fat cream cheese or quark
Dried fish
usually haddock, cod or catfish, herring
Porrablot
mid winter feast
Lax
salmon
ICELAND ESSENTIALS
Planning a trip to Iceland? Here are some of the resources and tools I personally use to organise my travel plans in the Iceland.
FLIGHTS : Find the best deals on flights to Iceland using Skyscanner.
VISAS : Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Iceland and apply for an expedited visa online. Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application if needed.
TRAVEL INSURANCE : Insure your trip with my preferred insurance for single trip and annual cover HeyMondo
AIRPORT TRANSFER : Pre-book your hotel transfer from Reykjavik Airport
ACCOMMODATION : Find the best hotel deals in Iceland on Booking.com
CAR HIRE : Book your rental car from RentalCars.com for great service and prices
BUS TICKETS : It is easy to book your bus tickets and other transport once you’re in Iceland but if you’d like to book in advance you can buy these tickets online through Bookaway
DAY TRIPS : Find the best city tours and day excursions in the Iceland on Viator or Get Your Guide.
ICELAND GUIDEBOOK : Pick up a copy of the latest Lonely Planet Guidebook for Iceland for a good read and to help you plan your trip.
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