🇮🇸 Iceland
Reykjavik travel guide
Reykjavik is Iceland's tiny capital with an outsized personality, offering a gateway to some of Earth's most dramatic landscapes. Geysers, glaciers, waterfalls, volcanoes, and the Northern Lights are all within easy reach. The city itself charms with colorful houses, a thriving café culture, natural hot spring pools, and a vibrant nightlife scene for its size.
Language
Icelandic (English almost universally spoken)
Currency
Icelandic Króna (ISK)
Timezone
GMT+0 (no DST)
Best time
June-August (summer) for hiking; Sept-March for Northern Lights
Budget/day
ISK 20000-50000/day (€135-340)
When to visit
Jan
-3°C to 2°C
Feb
-2°C to 3°C
Mar
-2°C to 4°C
Apr
1°C to 6°C
May
4°C to 10°C
Jun
7°C to 13°C
Jul
9°C to 14°C
Aug
9°C to 14°C
Sep
6°C to 11°C
Oct
2°C to 7°C
Nov
-1°C to 4°C
Dec
-2°C to 3°C
Safety
very safeReykjavik is extremely safe. Weather and natural hazards (geysers, glaciers) are the risks.
Women travellers
One of the safest countries in the world. Solo women travelers very comfortable.
Culture & etiquette
- + Shower naked at pools (required)
- + Respect nature - Leave No Trace
- + Try fermented shark (if you dare)
- + Learn about elf beliefs (seriously)
- - Don't skip the hot pot experience
- - Don't walk on moss (takes decades to grow back)
- - Don't expect cheap prices
- - Don't drive off-road (illegal and damaging)
Food to try
Hot dog (pylsur)
Iconic street food at Bæjarins Beztu
Lamb soup
Hearty traditional dish
Fresh seafood
Lobster, cod, Arctic char
Skyr
Thick Icelandic yogurt
Hákarl
Fermented shark (for the brave)
Geothermal bread
Baked underground
Hidden gems
Details are indicative and may change. Verify visa, safety, and entry requirements before travel.