Iceland is a dream location for nature enthusiasts and travelers seeking to fully experience life. The waterfalls, geysers, and rivers are breathtaking. The locals are exceptionally kind, with many speaking English. Enjoy an evening or two of city café adventure-these cafés often keep open till 6 am! Real travel advice that will help you discover Iceland as much fun as possible
Money
The official currency in Iceland is the Icelandic Krone, which is abbreviated as "kr." It's a good idea to pick up some Krone before you leave so you'll have it on hand when you arrive. In 2022, one US dollar will exchange for about 130 kr. If you don't have time, there are several locations throughout the airport where you may change your dollars into krona-the fee is just a bit more than what your bank will charge you. Iceland is almost completely cashless, so there's no need to worry about it. Both credit cards and debit cards require a four-digit PIN.
ATM's
In Iceland, cash is king. You'll only need a little amount of money in Iceland, and almost every community has an ATM (hraobanki). Cash can be withdrawn using your MasterCard, Visa, Maestro, or Cirrus cards. ATMs may be found in hotels, banks, on the street, gas stations, and shopping malls. Call your credit card or debit companies before you leave home so they know you're going to Iceland. Remember also to memorize your PINs-a must.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Icelanders use their credit cards for everything from grocery shopping to drinks at the pub. It's a good idea to bring cash with you when traveling in areas where access to financial services is limited.
VAT Tax Refund
The current VAT rate in Iceland is 26%, which is one of the highest in the world. The tax you pay on an item is included in its price tag. You are entitled to a VAT refund when you travel to Iceland as a non-Icelandic citizen. Most businesses have a "tax-free shopping" sign displayed in their window. If your purchase totals more than 6000kr, ask for a voucher.
Chauffeured Driving
Many people prefer to hire a chauffeur for their vacation. It's inexpensive, ideal for traveling with several persons, there's space for your luggage, and you may simply relax and enjoy your holiday while it drives you around. And a local driver can show you some off-the-beaten-path delights. Talk to your Authentic Destination Expert about this choice.
Driving Iceland Yourself
The ultimate way to explore this spectacular country of fire, ice, raging rivers, geothermal activity, and towering mountains is to drive through it. Drive on the right-hand side as you would in the United States. Yield to traffic coming from the left when approaching a roundabout. (As in the United States, pull over for emergency vehicles.)
Drivers must have their driver's license and insurance cards with them. Icelandic road signs are usually straightforward to comprehend, although some are more difficult than others. Triangular signs convey a welcome message, and circular signs signal that something is prohibited. A sign displaying the word "Stans" means stop. The term "kilometer" is used in Iceland (km), which measures 2/3 mile.
Seatbelts must be worn at all times. Children under the age of 12 must use a restraint that is appropriate for their age and size. Don't use your phone behind the wheel unless you have a hands-free device. The legal Blood Alcohol concentration is .05 percent, although there is no tolerance and penalties are severe.
Speed Limits
The black numerals and red borders are used to indicate the speed in kilometers per hour. Residential areas typically have a top speed of 30 kilometers per hour (around 18 miles per hour). In built-up areas, where traffic is constrained, it can reach as much as 50 kilometers per hour (31 miles per hour). The signs will display a black silhouette of a cityscape on a yellow background if the area is considered to be built-up.
Except for the speed limit signs, which are numeric, each sign posted has an illustration that aids in the comprehension of its message.Don't worry. Take your time and soak in the beauty of the area. If you want to go into the Highlands or mountains, hire an Authentic Travel Expert to reserve you a 4X4-those are required for the rough roads labeled "F" roads. Some of them run through rivers... Make sure you know how to drive on difficult terrain. Always stay on the road; do not pull off and drive off-road, even if the vista is beautiful or the field appears clear.
Road Safety
Iceland has its own set of driving rules. On the roads, be wary of livestock because they have the right-of-way and no honking! Keep in mind that many F routes are enticing, but only 4WD vehicles can traverse them. During the summer, F roads are accessible just by calling 1777
Marketplaces
Christmas markets line the streets of Reykjavik during the winter. Local dishes, beverages, and handmade presents are all waiting for you. Visit Iceland's eastern capital, Egilstaoir, in the summer to discover Fjoshornio, a cow-shed corner. This is a farm market with dairy products that arrive directly from the farm, as well as Skyr, one of Iceland's original yogurts. Stop by the restaurant for food straight from this farm - it's a culinary delight for foodies.
The ideal time to visit Kolaportio, in Reykjavik's city center with a view of the waterfront, is at any time of year. When locals are moving or just need more room, you'll typically discover anything from African jewelry to kimonos to jade statues for sale here. It's also a fantastic location to search for books. The charm of this area is unrivaled. For anyone who adore woollenwear, Blaskogabyggd must be on the bucket list. It takes approximately 1 1/2 hours from Reykjavik into Iceland; nevertheless, it's an amazing drive. Handmade lopapeysa, gloves, caps, and sweaters are all one-of-a-kind. The good are made by local women who live near the farm and are one-of-a-kind.
Roll out the Fun!
Iceland is an adventurer's paradise and a great way to broaden your horizons. Imagine kiteboarding in a fjord before relaxing in a natural hot spring. Kitesurfing on beautiful seas is nirvana. How about experiencing the Northern Lights at midnight? Ziplining in Iceland is a fantastic experience. Glide through breathtaking river gorges-the view from below is magnificent. Soar across amazing river canyons-the scenery is breathtaking. "
Stop at Vik if you're driving the Ring and see the Icelandic Lava Show. This is the only location on Earth where you may safely get close to molten lava. It's a thrilling experience. Iceland has amusement parks, such as Tivoli, as well as water parks, which are available throughout the country - this is a country that welcomes families and groups of friends!
Navigating Nature
Prepare for the weather, no matter when you travel. It can change in a moment. Please get a real weather forecast before heading out if you're going on a trek. Simply call 9020600 to get the forecast, then press 1 after the introductory message. Also, while hiking, keep in mind that snow might cause a creek to become a river as it melts. In areas with geothermal activity, stick to boardwalks and solid ground as you would in Yellowstone. It's dangerous to go glacier climbing or solo trekking in Iceland, whether at home or abroad. Use common sense, and you'll be fine. Iceland's natural wonders are some of the world's finest.
What to Pack
Bring comfortable walking shoes and a variety of socks. Keep a thick, water-resistant jacket on hand, as well as a lightweight coat to wear beneath it. Sweaters that aren't too bulky are ideal. In Iceland, even at expensive restaurants, you won't be expected to dress up (tie and jacket). The dress is appropriate for a business meeting, a leisure event, or both.(Bring only two or three of them.) Make copies of your health insurance coverage. Keep your medications, important papers, and some cash in one small bag.
Hours For Shops & Banks
Due to Iceland's weather, hours differ throughout the year. Some areas are only accessible during the peak season, and there are often longer hours from June through August. Banks - 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday is standard operating hours. Cafes/bars - 10 a.m.-1 a.m., Sunday-Thursday Bars/cafes open until 6 pm on weekdays.
Restaurants are open 11:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m., then they close for the day. Open again for dinner from 6 p. If you're going to/from Keflavik International Airport, arrive between 24 and 30 minutes before your flight's departure time (arrivals outside of Iceland must call ahead). Some shops in malls are open on Sunday in Reykjavik. Supermarkets are open 9 a.m.-9 p.m daily, although some stores in malls may only be open for a few hours each day due to licensing restrictions outside of the city limits of Reykjavik
Emergency Phone Number
For emergencies, dial 112. Directory assistance is 118. For the weather, call 902-0600 and press 1 after the introduction. Dial 1777 to get road conditions.