Travel Essentials › Iceland
Travel Essentials
Plugs: Types C and F, 230 V. Emergency: One number for everything 112. Tipping: Not expected; service is included and cards are accepted everywhere. Tap water: Generally safe to drink tap water; among the highest quality in the world.
Types C and F, 230 V
| One number for everything | 112 |
Not expected; service is included and cards are accepted everywhere.
Greetings. A firm handshake and eye contact on meeting is the norm for everyone, with "hæ" or "halló" among friends. Friends and family often hug; kisses on the cheek are uncommon among strangers.
Shoes and pools. Remove shoes when entering homes; at geothermal pools you must shower naked before putting on a swimsuit, which is strictly enforced.
Punctuality and directness. Icelanders are generally informal and direct; first names are used with everyone, including in business.
Respect nature. Stay on marked paths, do not walk on moss (it takes decades to regrow) and never approach unstable areas like glacier edges or hot springs without guidance.
Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world for crime; the main risks to travelers are environmental — weather, driving conditions, and natural hazards like sneaker waves and unstable ice.
Car rental damage disputes. Photograph the rental car thoroughly before and after driving, since weather-related dents/chips are common disputes; consider gravel/sand protection insurance.
Overpriced tourist-area cafes. A coffee or meal near a major attraction can cost far more than the same thing a few streets away; check prices before ordering.
Women travelers. Solo women travelers consistently report feeling safe and comfortable; street harassment is rare, though normal precautions apply, especially around nightlife areas late at night.
Legal · Safe
Same-sex marriage is legal and LGBTQ+ rights are strongly protected by law; Iceland is one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly countries in the world and travelers face no special risk.
| Coffee (café) | 600 ISK | $4.30 |
| Local bus or metro ride | 550 ISK | $3.90 |
| Mid-range restaurant meal | 4,500 ISK | $32 |
| Hostel bed / budget room (night) | 8,000 ISK | $57 |
| Mid-range hotel (night) | 35,000 ISK | $250 |
| Daily budget, mid-range traveler | 40,000 ISK | $285 |
2026-09
June-August has the mildest weather and near-endless daylight for road trips and hiking, but is the most crowded and expensive; late September to March is best for the northern lights, with October and February/March offering the best balance of dark skies and manageable weather.