Iceland
Europe · Reykjavík · IS
Iceland is a landscape of elemental extremes, where volcanic fire meets glacial ice and the very ground beneath your feet is still being shaped by geological forces. The island straddles the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, and its terrain reflects that restless geology: steaming hot springs, black sand beaches, lava fields blanketed in luminous green moss, and glaciers that calve icebergs into lagoons. Reykjavik, the world's northernmost capital, is a compact city of colorful rooftops, geothermal swimming pools, and a music and art scene that punches far above its population. The Ring Road, a roughly thirteen hundred kilometer circuit, reveals the country's full diversity, from the waterfalls of the south coast to the volcanic desert of the highlands and the bird cliffs of the east. Icelandic food draws on the sea and the volcanic soil, from lamb slow-roasted underground to skyr, the cultured dairy product that has become a global health food phenomenon. The island's isolation has preserved a literary tradition stretching back to the medieval sagas.
Overview
Iceland is a country in Europe. Its capital is Reykjavík and the international dialling code is +354. Languages commonly used in everyday life here include Icelandic. Local currency is the Icelandic Króna (ISK). Our guide covers 1 airport, including Keflavík International Airport. We also list 1 city in Iceland: Reykjavík.
Getting around Iceland
All international flights land at Keflavík (KEF), 50 km from Reykjavík; a Flybus or rented car makes the transfer easy. Within Reykjavík, the city is small and walkable, plus a simple public bus (Straeto) covers the suburbs. Domestic aircraft and internal flights reach Akureyri.
The Ring Road (Route 1) circles Iceland and is drivable in summer in around a week — a rental car with insurance is the classic way to see waterfalls, black-sand beaches and glaciers. In winter, expect winter tyres, snow and icy passes; rentals with studded tyres and extra insurance are common. Fuel stations accept cards and are spaced far apart off the main ring.
When to visit Iceland
June to August are the most popular months: long daylight (near midnight sun), mild temperatures and access to highland roads. September to April are the aurora season, though this needs dark skies and clear weather. Even in summer, bring warm layers and rain gear — Iceland's weather changes quickly.
Winter travellers should plan around daylight (only a few hours in December) and snow on the Ring Road. The Highlands (Landmannalaugar, Askja) open when the snow melts — usually late June — and are served by F-roads that require a 4x4 and often reservations.
Eating and drinking
Icelandic cuisine reflects the island: fresh fish, lamb, skyr (a strained, protein-rich yogurt), and smoked or cured options like hákarl (fermented shark) that are more curiosity than everyday fare. Hot dog stands (the famous pylsur at Bæjarins Beztu) and bakeries are affordable treats.
Reykjavík has a lively café and craft-beer scene — try a local beer with lamb soup or a fish soup for a warming lunch. Prices are high by European standards: entrées often start around 3000–5000 ISK. A 10% service tip is not mandatory, but rounding up is appreciated.
Money and local customs
Iceland uses the króna (ISK) — no euro. Cards are accepted everywhere, and many places are essentially cash-free, so a contactless card is essential; keep cash only as a backup.
Icelanders are friendly, informal and use first names. A firm handshake and direct eye contact are normal. Road signs and shop names are in Icelandic; English is universal. Tipping is not expected (service charges are included in most bills), and the famous geothermal pools (blue lagoon) require a booking ahead in summer — book early.
Compare hotels, cover your trip and stay connected.
- Capital
- Reykjavík
- Currency
- Icelandic Króna (ISK)
- Languages
- Icelandic
- Calling code
- +354
- Internet TLD
- is
Entry requirements
Check who can enter →See which passports travel visa-free or need a visa to enter Iceland.
Which nationalities can enter Iceland?
Current visa status for tourism for the origins we cover, with links to the detailed requirements.
Airports (1)
All airports →Cities (1)
All cities →Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa to visit Iceland?
For the origins we track, travellers from Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina and Australia currently enter Iceland visa-free for tourism. Entry rules depend on your passport and the purpose of your trip, so check the current requirements for your own nationality with our entry requirements tool.
What is the capital of Iceland?
Reykjavík is the capital of Iceland, and the country sits in Europe.
What currency is used in Iceland?
You pay with Icelandic Króna (ISK) in Iceland. Exchange rates move day to day, so check the current rate before you change money or use your card abroad.
Which languages do people speak in Iceland?
The languages we list for Iceland are Icelandic. A couple of greetings in the local language go a long way when you travel, even in cities where another language is widely used.
What is the international dialling code for Iceland?
The dialling code for Iceland is +354 — keep the plus sign when you save the number.
Which airports serve Iceland?
Keflavík International Airport (KEF) in Reykjavík is the airport we cover for Iceland.
Which cities in Iceland do you cover?
Our guide lists 1 city for Iceland: Reykjavík (capital).