Iceland Travel Guide

Iceland Travel Guide | Two Wandering Soles

There is no place in the world quite like Iceland. With waterfalls around every turn, glaciers and black sand beaches, Iceland is a photographer’s dream and a nature-lover’s paradise.

This country is small but don’t underestimate the amount of adventure you can find. Plus, the charming city of Reykjavík is a great place to mingle with friendly locals and experience the unique culture of this volcanic island nation. 

If you’re looking for true adventure on a budget, rent a car and a tent and follow our super detailed 7 day Iceland itinerary. Or for a bit more comfort and protection from the elements, try renting a campervan and exploring all of Ring Road

Insider Tip: Out of all the campervan rental companies out there, we like Happy Campers the best. They are a family run company providing excellent vehicles with all the gear you need for an epic road trip in Iceland.

What are you waiting for… Adventure is calling!

But first, don’t miss your chance to download our perfect south coast Iceland itinerary!

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Travel Guide Contents

Important Info   |   Best Time to Visit   |   Things to Do   |   What to Eat   |   Typical Budget

Travel Tips   |   What to Pack   |   Iceland Articles   |   Book Now

Iceland Travel Guide | Two Wandering Soles

Important Information About Iceland

Iceland at a Glance: From every mountain and cliff’s edge, Iceland seems to have an abundant supply of flowing water. Not to mention the lava fields, fjords, volcanoes and mud pops. A visit to this surreal place will leave you speechless and never wanting to leave!

Currency in Iceland: Króna | 2018 Conversion Rate: 100 ISK = $0.88 USD

Tipping in Iceland: It is not very common to tip in Iceland. If there’s no service charge in your restaurant bill, then it is perfectly fine to tip 10% gratuity, but it is not expected of you. You won’t be expected to tip hotel and spa staff, tour guides, hairdressers, or taxi drivers.

Language & Helpful Phrases: Icelandic

Hello = halló/Góðan daginn
Thank you = takk
Beer = bjór
Delicious = ljúffengur
Bathroom = baðherbergi
How much? = hvað kostar þetta (mikið)
Too expensive = of dýrt
Don’t want = vil ekki

Religion and Culture: Iceland’s culture varies and strongly originates from Scandinavian traditions. As much as 80% of Icelanders view themselves as members of the Lutheran State Church. The people also take great pride in their Viking heritage and traditions. The country has embraced traditional crafts such as weaving, silver smithing, and wood carving.

Transportation around Iceland: In Iceland, there are many of your typical modes of transportation from taxis and public buses to rental cars and cyclists. You will also find some less conventional methods of getting around such as hitchhiking or traveling by campervan. The fastest way around the country is via domestic flights. This option is best if you are only staying for a couple of days in Iceland and you want to see a lot of places.

Popular places to visit in Iceland:

ReykjavikSuper walkable, extremely safe, and full of Nordic charm, Reykjavik is packed with spunk, charm, and fun things to do. 

The Blue Lagoon – The Blue Lagoon is undoubtedly the most famous hot spring in the entire country, and for good reason. The milky blue waters surrounded by lava stones are stunning. Plus, with a complimentary beverage (Prosecco, please!) and silica face mask, you’ll feel totally pampered soaking here.

Snaefellsnes Peninsula – Sandwiched between the Westfjords to the north and the Reykjanes Peninsula to the south, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is a region in western Iceland worth exploring with some pretty epic waterfalls, hikes and incredible views.  

The Golden Circle Easily accessible, the Golden Circle is a famous driving loop that passes by 3 of the countries main attractions: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss. Plus some secret spots off-the-beaten-path that you’ll definitely want to check out. 

Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck – Hike to the eerie wreckage of a 1973 U.S. Navy plan that crashed on this desolate black sand beach in Iceland to get some pretty interesting photo ops. 

Fimmvörðuháls trailArguably one of the best day hikes in Iceland, this hike rewards those who take it on with some of the most dramatic landscapes the country has to offer. 

Stuðlagil Canyon – Nestled in a glacial valley in northeastern Iceland, this seriously Instagrammable canyon boasts the country’s largest collection of basalt columns.

Other popular spots include:

  • Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River
  • Seljalandsfoss
  • Seljavallalaug swimming pool
  • Skógafoss
  • Reynisfjara black sand beach
  • Vík
  • Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
  • Svartifoss
  • Diamond Ice Beach
  • Skaftafell glacier

Wondering how to fit all this into one trip? We’ve got you covered! We’ve created the perfect customizable Iceland Itinerary for a 7-9 day road trip.

Iceland Travel Guide | Two Wandering Soles

Best Time to Visit Iceland

For an in-depth guide on the regional seasons, weather patterns and other factors, check out our complete guide on the best time to visit Iceland. We’ve also listed out some of the basics below to give you a general idea.

Climate in Iceland

Thanks to the Gulf Stream, Iceland experiences cool summers and mild winters despite its location in the south of the Arctic Circle.  

  • Warmest season: mid-June to late August

  • Rainy season: precipitation peaks from October to February

  • Winter: November to March

  • Spring: April to May

  • Summer: June to August

  • Fall: September to October

Peak season for tourists is from July to August because of the great weather. 

Times to avoid traveling in Iceland

The worst time to visit Iceland is when it is the most crowded. This is often July to August.

Tip: If you want to see the Northern Lights, it is best to visit from mid-October to March.

Major Festivals in Iceland

  • Culture Night, August: This festival is a citywide celebration of culture and art. Celebrations take place in city streets, squares, museums and businesses. The night marks the beginning of the city’s cultural year with the slogan, “Come on in!” paying homage to the old fashioned customs of hospitality.

  • Secret Solstice, mid-summer solstice: This music festival takes place in Reykjavík each summer to celebrate the summer solstice and combines music with distinctly Icelandic characteristics to bring a unique experience to festival-goers they won’t be able to get anywhere else.

  • New Year’s Eve: This special holiday is celebrated by Icelanders with bonfires, reveries and lots of fireworks! 

*Some of these festivals follow the Lunar calendar, so the exact dates vary each year.

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Top Things to Do in Iceland

Soak in Hot Springs

You’ve probably heard of the Blue Lagoon outside Reykjavík, but did you know Iceland is actually filled with naturally geothermal-heated pools. We rounded up our favorite Iceland hot springs, including all the details about visiting so you know exactly what to expect. 

View the Northern Lights

Catching a glimpse of the green hues dancing across the northern sky is probably on every traveler’s bucket list. The lights are best seen from remote places in Iceland from mid-September to mid-April.

Wander Around Reykjavík

This is probably where you will find the most cafes, pubs, and clubs in all of Iceland. The town is filled with beautiful wooden houses painted in bright colors that stick out perfectly against the green and blue landscaping. There are plenty of cool things to do in Reykjavik to satisfy any type of traveler. 

Chase Waterfalls

One of the biggest draws to visiting this unique country is the incredible amount of waterfalls one can see in a day. We’ve rounded up the best waterfalls in Iceland, plus their exact locations, so you can see just how many you can fit into your itinerary. So get your galoshes and rain jacket and go chasing waterfalls!

Take a Hike

We’ve done quite a bit of trekking around this jaw-dropping country and we’ve compiled a list of our favorite Iceland hikes to share with you. This article includes plenty of photos and details to help you plan your experience hiking in Iceland and know exactly what to expect.

That’s not all… There are so many more incredible things to do in Iceland, we had to create an entire article about it. We’ve rounded up the top adventures, sights to see and culinary experiences so you can create your own Iceland bucket list.

Iceland Travel Guide | Two Wandering Soles

Best Foods to Eat in Iceland

Before the times of importing goods, Icelanders were limited in their food options to food they could hunt, fish or farm. This influenced the traditional cuisine and is still seen in dishes around the country today. We break down all the options in our guide to Icelandic food, so you know what to try and what to skip on your net trip.

Here are some of our favorites:

  • Skyr: Don’t miss the chance to try this creamy dairy product that is often described as the marriage between cottage cheese and yogurt.

  • Lamb: In Iceland, lamb is served in many different ways. Often, it is roasted with spiced gravy or stewed with root vegetables.

  • Fermented Shark: Yup. You read that right. Only in Iceland will you find shark fermented with vinegar and other ingredients sold as a delicacy.

  • Ice Cream and Cheese: Just because Iceland has ice doesn’t mean they don’t eat ice cream all year round. There are a lot of good ice cream shops on the island.

  • Seafood: Fish is often present in an Icelander’s daily meal. It is often grilled, roasted, fried or boiled. Besides fish, you will also find some savory lobster dishes.

  • Pylsur: Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur is small chain of hotdog stands you will find all over Reykjavík serving up the best pylsur outside of an American baseball stadium.

Iceland Travel Guide | Two Wandering Soles

Typical Budget for Iceland

Out of all the countries we’ve visited, Iceland is probably one of the most expensive. The reason for this is because almost everything needs to be imported to this volcanic island in the arctic. 

Good to know: If you’re on a budget, the best way to enjoy Iceland would be to go camping. There are a lot of free campgrounds around the island. You’ll definitely save a lot of money here. For more money saving tips, check out our article on how to travel on a budget in Iceland.

How Much to Budget in Iceland Per Day

Budget traveler: If you are on a tight budget and watch your spending closely, $76 – $100 could be a sufficient budget. 

Mid-range traveler: If you want to have a few splurges and stay in nicer accommodation, plan to budget $200 – $300 per day.

Travel Guide | Two Wandering Soles

Campsites = $10-$22 per person

Dorm bed = $30-$50

Budget room = $85-$120

Mid-range = $200

Luxury hotel = $300+

Travel Guide | Two Wandering Soles

Street food = $3.50-$17

Mid-range restaurant = $15+

Fancy restaurant = $25+

Local beer = $6-$10

Travel Guide | Two Wandering Soles

Car Rental = $32 per day

Bus Ticket = $4.60 (Long-distance bus tickets are at $80 to $110)

Camper Van = around $150+ per day

Travel Guide | Two Wandering Soles

Museum = $8-$25 

Blue Lagoon = $150 for two people

Horseback riding = $106

Iceland Travel Guide | Two Wandering Soles

Responsible Travel Tips for Iceland

We are passionate about sharing tips anyone can use to travel more responsibly. Here are some easy ways you can travel better in Iceland.

1. Learn a little

Cultural differences can make traveling confusing if you don’t know what to expect ahead of time. Before going to Iceland, educate yourself. Beyond this travel guide, read about the language, culture, religion and local rules of the country.

2. Be respectful

If you love to take photos or videos like we do, be sure to always ask permission before sticking a camera in someone’s face. Do not treat the locals like animals in a zoo.

3. Minimize your waste

Don’t forget to bring your very own shopping bags and reusable water bottle, and make it a habit to remove and recycle plastic packaging of things you buy. If you are camping in Iceland, remember to leave on footprints… that means you should be prepared to haul your trash away when you leave and dispose of it in the proper receptacles once you return to town.

Related Article: 36 Responsible Travel Tips

Iceland Travel Guide | Two Wandering Soles

What to Pack for Iceland

One of the most frequently asked questions we get from people planning a trip to Iceland seems to be what to pack for Iceland and what to wear on your trip. 

Here are some specific items we’d recommend packing for Iceland:

Related Article: Check out our eco-friendly travel gear packing list for some great recommendations of things to pack on your travels.

Iceland packing list

Iceland Articles

Find all sorts of information and tips on traveling to Iceland that will help you plan your trip. From how to plan an epic camping adventure to money saving tips, we’ve got it all!

Driving Iceland’s Golden Circle Route: Perfect Itinerary [2024]

The Golden Circle is one of the top attractions in Iceland, and for a good reason. It’s easily accessible to all travelers whether you’re visiting the island for just a few days or staying much longer. This travel guide is everything you need to plan your own self-driving tour of...

Perfect 7 Day Iceland Itinerary

Whether you have a layover, or Iceland is your final destination, we've got the perfect trip planned for you! This detailed 7-day Iceland itinerary is complete with day-by-day instructions, photos and tips that will bring you to the southern coast and through the iconic Golden Circle. Follow this one week...

27 Absolute Best Things to do in Iceland

There are so many incredible things to do in Iceland it can be overwhelming to try and plan your trip. We’ve rounded up the top adventures, sights to see and culinary experiences so you can create your own Iceland bucket list.

Best Campervan Rentals in Iceland: Ultimate Guide (+ Discount!)

If you're looking for an Iceland campervan rental, you've come to the right place. In this article we break down all of the FAQs about traveling Iceland in a campervan, plus tell you about the best Iceland campervan rental company which we just so happen to have an exclusive discount...

30 Actually Cool Things to Do in Reykjavik

It may be your jumping off point to explore the rest of Iceland, or you might just have a layover here, but there are actually some really cool things to do in Reykjavik. We’ve rounded up the top adventures, sights to see and culinary experiences so you can plan your...

Groceries in Iceland: Money-Saving Guide to Icelandic Supermarkets

If you're planning a trip to Iceland, it's good to keep in mind just how expensive the cost of eating out there will be. To save money, we recommend shopping for groceries. In this article we're covering all of the logistics of getting groceries in Iceland, including food prices, meals...

19 Best Airbnbs in Iceland (+ Top-Rated Experiences!)

If your planning a trip to the adventure-filled volcanic island, you’ll want to check out this highly curated list of the best Airbnbs in Iceland. We’re sharing our favorite stays to meet every need — from budget-friendly, to the most unique accommodation, to some seriously incredible properties!

Icelandic Food: What to Try & What to Skip

During our time in Iceland we spent plenty of time doing "research" on Icelandic cuisine and checking out all on the must-try Icelandic foods. Here's everything we learned about Icelandic food and its history as well as our honest opinions on which foods to try and which to pass on.

27 Essential Iceland Travel Apps

We tested out all the recommended Iceland apps on our latest trip and we’re going to explain which apps are actually helpful from our first hand experience. Plus, we’re going to share our favorite general road trips apps which will help make your time in Iceland unforgettable.

Iceland Trip Cost + 39 Sneaky Budget Tips

How expensive is Iceland? We're breaking down exactly how much a trip to Iceland costs. Plus, we're sharing our top (super practical!) money-saving tips for traveling Iceland on a budget to help you travel the land of fire and ice without blowing the bank!

Studlagil Canyon Iceland: Essential Guide + Insider Tips

While it may no longer be considered one of Iceland's hidden gems, we still think Stuðlagil Canyon is worth a visit. In this article we'll go over everything you need to know about planning your visit from where it's located to how to get the best photos!

Iceland Camping Guide: Essential Tips + Best Campsites in Iceland

If you’re planning a camping trip in Iceland, there are some things you should know before setting off on your trip. We’ve been camping in Iceland twice, once in a tent and once in a campervan, so we’re sharing all of our insider knowledge to help you plan the Iceland...

14 Incredible Iceland Hot Springs to Visit

Find out what to expect and exactly how to get to some of the best hot springs in Iceland. This article breaks down all the details so you can easily visit them on your own trip. Plus we’re sharing some important tips for Icelandic hot springs etiquette so you don’t...

Ring Road Iceland: 38 Stops You Can’t Miss!

One of the best ways to see this incredible country is by circumnavigating the island on Iceland's iconic Ring Road. You'll have the opportunity to visit lots of the unique landscapes that make up the highlights of Iceland on a Ring Road road trip and we're sharing all of our...

ULTIMATE Guide to Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Planning a trip to the famous black sand beach in Iceland? We're sharing everything you need to know before you go to Reynisfjara Beach, including how to get there, the best photo spots, and the very real dangers you need to be aware of.

25 Best Iceland Waterfalls + Exact Locations

Find out what to expect and exactly how to get to some of the best waterfalls in Iceland. This article breaks down all the details so you can easily visit them on your own trip. Plus we’re sharing a map with exact GPS locations and insider tips to help you...

Where to Get the Best Pictures in Iceland (+ Photography Tips!)

Wondering where to get the best pictures in Iceland? Scroll through our personal Iceland photography collection to see where got all the shots at some of the best photo spots in Iceland.

How to Plan the Ultimate Iceland Road Trip

Road tripping is undoubtedly the best way to see all that Iceland has to offer and allows you the freedom to travel like no other. From vehicle rentals to budgeting to en route entertainment, here is everything you need to help you plan your Iceland road trip.

Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool: What to Know BEFORE You Go

Our extensive guide to Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool will help answer your questions as you plan your trip to this truly unique and stunning open-air hot spring pool located in southern Iceland.

Glymur Waterfall: ULTIMATE Hiking Guide + Tips

Iceland has thousands of waterfalls, yet few pack the punch of Glymur Waterfall, the country’s second-tallest. It’s not quite as accessible as others, but well worth the effort. This guide details everything you need to know to reach one of Iceland’s most stunning cascades!

Fosslaug Hot Spring & Reykjafoss Waterfall: ULTIMATE Guide

Nestled in the Icelandic countryside, Fosslaug Hot Springs is a natural soaking pool that’s free to enter. This article breaks down exactly how to reach the idyllic Fosslaug Hot Springs, and nearby Reykjafoss Waterfall, in Iceland.

Vik, Iceland: 25 Unmissable Things to Do + Hidden Gems

This gem of a town in southern Iceland makes a perfect stop on your itinerary. There is so much more to Vik, Iceland than the famous beach. We've rounded up all the best things to do in Vik, including some hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path treasures.

Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River: ULTIMATE Soaking Guide 

Soaking up the steamy waters of the Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River is one of the coolest ways to begin or conclude your trip to Iceland. In this guide, we cover exactly how to get to this magical location, what you can expect while visiting, and essential tips.

Iceland Camping Rental: Gear for an Unforgettable Adventure

Traveling in Iceland an adventure in itself, but camping is an experience you'll never forget. Iceland Camping Equipment is your go-to place for any rental gear you could want! Come with us as we help you start planning your very own Iceland camping adventure!

Renting a Car in Iceland: 14 Essential Tips

Taking a road trip around Iceland is without a doubt the best way to see the country. Having a rental car will give you the freedom you need to explore Iceland fully. In this guide, we’ll answer all your questions about Iceland car rentals like how much they cost, what...

Best Time to Visit Iceland: When to Go & When to Avoid!

Wondering when is the best time to visit Iceland? This article breaks down what to expect month by both so you can determine the best time to visit Iceland for your travels!

17 Dreamy Iceland Honeymoon Experiences + PERFECT Itinerary

If you are dreaming of an Iceland honeymoon, you’ve come to the right place! This guide has all sorts of ideas for romantic experiences and once-in-a-lifetime adventures that will make your Iceland honeymoon the perfect blend of luxury and adventure. We even have a perfect Iceland itinerary curated just for...

Laugavegur Trail: Iceland Hiking Guide

We’ve called on a fellow travel blogger and hiking enthusiast to go over everything you need to know to hike the Laugavegur trail, one of Iceland’s most difficult, yet rewarding, multi-day treks. From planning your route to budgeting for your trip and a day-to-day trail breakdown, this article has you...

15 Beautiful Iceland Hikes

We’ve done quite a bit of trekking around this jaw-dropping country and we’ve compiled a list of our favorite Iceland hikes to share with you. This article includes plenty of photos and details to help you plan your experience hiking in Iceland and know exactly what to expect.

Fimmvörðuháls Hike: Guide to Iceland’s Best Day Hike

Arguably one of the best day hikes in Iceland, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about hiking the Fimmvörðuháls trail, including our play-by-play of what to expect along the way, how to get back to the trailhead, and what essential items you’ll need to pack.

Book Your Trip to Iceland Now!

Here are some helpful links for booking your trip to Iceland…

To find the best airline deals: Skyscanner

Booking a rental car: Rentalcars.com

Campervan rentals in Iceland: Happy Campers

Finding tours in Iceland: Get Your Guide

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