We all know of Iceland as the destination to go if we want to dip in Blue Lagoon’s mud bath. But there is so much more about Iceland and why it’s worth a visit – even just for a few days. Iceland is definitely the place you want to squeeze in your 3-week Europe itinerary.
It’s not cheap to travel to Iceland, however, it should not stop you from exploring the country of less than a million people. Reaching Iceland has never been more affordable. Many flights from North America connects here if you are heading to Scandinavia, Nordic countries or even Eastern Europe – spend your stop-over well.
In this article, I will share some awesome tips for travelling to Iceland – from where to book cheap flights, affordable accommodations, and tours that you should not miss. I will also give you a little peek at the list of things that are so unique that you can only find in Iceland.
HOW MUCH TIME TO SPEND IN ICELAND
For me, I spent a week in Iceland, while there are many other places I wish I could see, a week is a great amount of time. It kept me on my toes, I spend just within my planned budget and managed to enjoy many places I wanted to see.
I can also see some people spending just 3-5 days here and that’s just perfect as well. If you are not much into hiking or not planning to camp or anything, 3-5 days is a reasonable time to explore Iceland.
We have a travel itinerary for 3 weeks in Iceland if that’s something you’re interested in. With this much time, I also recommend you rent a car for the duration of your trip and/or look for an motorhome to save some money on accommodation.
BEST TIME TO GO TO ICELAND
Personally, I went to Iceland in late September, the temperature was not too cold and the chance to see the Northern Lights was much higher. On the other hand, it depends on the activities you want to do.
For example, if you want the best time to see the Northern Lights, October, February, and March are better, but don’t forget it will be much colder and darker.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN ICELAND
If you are writing your travel itinerary for Iceland, here are tips for travelling to Iceland when it comes to things you can see and enjoy in Iceland and how to combined multiple places in one trip.
Golden Circle
The Golden Circle Trail is the best way to explore the major areas of Iceland. If you have a car, you wouldn’t have a problem taking this drive. You can drive the full circle in just 3-hours. Hence, planning an entire day is perfect, so you don’t rush yourself.
Around the Golden Circle, you can visit Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall for the Southern region. Near Reykjavik, you can explore Vatnshellir Lava Tube. Thingvellir National Park (to see two tectonic plates meet) and Blue Lagoon’s Mud Bath.
Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Just north of Reykjavik, Snaefelsness is a two-hour drive, here you can enjoy the beautiful waterfalls of Iceland and see the stunning Snæfellsjökull Volcano and must-see glaciers. This will take up half of your day, so make sure to leave early.
Whale Watching in Husavik
If you are up for some adventure and have some extra time, Husavik is a popular spot if you want to see some marine animals. This is a great location for whale and dolphin watching. However, it’s about 5.5 hours away from Reykjavik, so plan well.
ICELAND ON A BUDGET
Iceland is one of the most expensive places to visit in the world. A beer in a bar can cost $18 a glass, a loaf of bread is about $3m, and a bus ticket around the city is about $4 and double at night. But don’t get too disappointed, it’s not all that bad.
Accommodations are pretty much the same price compared to popular cities like London, Los Angeles, New York, Sydney, and Tokyo. With great planning, Iceland travel expenses can be trimmed down to something within a reasonable budget. Here are budget tips for travelling to Iceland.
Booking flights and acommodations
Like I mentioned before, flights to Iceland is no longer a need in a haystack. If you are planning to go to Iceland, start looking at flights about three (3) months before you go. However, if you want to go in during the peak of the summer, you may want to start looking around winter.
Accommodations in Iceland is not cheap, that’s expected. Unless you don’t mind staying in hostel dorm rooms which runs between $30-$60 a night, be prepared to spend $50 and up for a private double room.
On the other hand, if you are adventurous, you can sleep in your car. However, it’s kind of a grey area. For example, if your car or van is designed to have a sleeping area, you are allowed to do so on camping grounds. Budget travellers said they have slept in regular cars without problem as long as you don’t leave any trash. Plus, couchsurfing is still a thing here – if that suits you too.
Getting around Iceland
The best way to get around Iceland is to get a rental car. It will give you freedom on places to go and see. It’s not the cheapest, but to be honest, the convenience makes it so worth it. You can pick up the car at the airport, drive yourself to the city, and back to the airport.
It will save you time trying to learn how the local transportation work and time table. The cost of renting a car in Iceland is between $50-$70 depending on the size and type.
Choosing tours
If you want to go on a guided or prearranged tour, it’s best to get a map, sit down, and mark the places that are high in your priority. Also, leave a mark on some places along the way or between attractions that you would like to check out too.
From here, you will have a visual idea of the area that is high on your list. You can either go on a travel agency office and see if they have tours that cover the places you want to see in one go or go online and check out package tours.
On the other hand, if you have a rented car and the destination you wish to visit does not need a booking through an agent, drive yourself there and enjoy your day. Just make sure to spend some time planning your itinerary and checking the opening hours and if a reservation or buying a ticket beforehand is required.
COOL THINGS ABOUT ICELAND
No Army
Iceland is part of NATO even though they do not have an active army, air force, navy, or any military form. They do, however, have a peacekeeping unit with just less than 200 staff – they do not wear uniforms or carry firearms. They do have a national coast guard and air defence system, but due to the lack of army units, there is no permanent or full-time job in those areas,
Beer day
Beer was banned in Iceland for nearly 100 years when the ban was listed in 1989 on March 1st. Making it the unofficial day to celebrate the dissolution of beer. If you are planning to go to Iceland during this time, don’t forget to enjoy a drink or two!
Fast food isn’t so fast
You will not find a single international fast food in Iceland. Due to high import tax, businesses that rely on imported items can’t sustain or survive. In one of the museums, you can find the last cheeseburger sold in Iceland.
Eco-friendly than anyone else
Iceland is one of the most eco-friendly countries in the world – thanks to their natural renewable energy – 73% from hydropower and 27% from geothermal power. They are currently working on being carbon-neutral by 2040.
Last to be discovered
Vikings of Norway accidentally discovered Iceland during their quest. It’s the country that was last to be discovered and set foot by humans. I now wonder if they have a low population because of being last to be explored or the fact that winter here can be very brutal.
Oldest parliament
Even though they were the last to be discovered and they have a very small population, Iceland together with the inventors of Democracy, have the oldest Parliament in the world existing until today.
Bookworms
In Iceland, they have a day where people give books away, also known as Jolabokaflod, which is celebrated on Christmas eve. Iceland for a long time has had the highest rate per capita on publishing books. Every 1 in 10 people are expected or have published a book.
Lowest crime rate in the world
Well, if you haven’t realised why it’s one of the countries with the lowest crime rate by not having the need for military, Iceland is a safe country. Thanks to their low population, nearly impeccable equality amongst people, and well-structured society. Plus, since it has a small population, the idea of “everyone knows everyone” is pretty common here, which mean, building trust is highly valued.
TRADITIONAL ICELANDIC FOOD TO TRY
Icelandic culture is a Viking culture, meaning, meat is pretty high on the list here. Not to mention they are an island, which also means, there are many fish-bases dishes to try during your visit to Iceland. But due to their goal to be more eco-friendlier, vegan and vegetarian options at restaurants is available.
Kjötsúpa (Lamb Soup)
This is also known as Iceland’s national dish. They are often consumed for dinner, made with organic lamb meat, locally grown potatoes, carrots, and onion – it’s a perfect dish after a long day of exploring and you are craving to warm up your body.
Hákarl – (Fermented Shark)
A traditional dish in Iceland, after processing and fermenting, share meat will be dried outside for 4-5 months. This dish is often served as a starter or side meat dish for dinner. It’s not exactly yummy, but if you are up for an adventure, here you go. Today, many younger generation is not a fan of this dish since you can now simply put your meat in the fridge to preserve it.
Ice cream
If you have been doing your research about tips on travelling to Iceland about food, we are not the first one to tell you that ice cream in Iceland is a must-try. Regardless of the temperature, ice cream is something you have to try during your visit even at 1 in the morning. You can find them in many stores, cafes, and even gas stations.
Skyr
Skyr is Iceland’s version of yoghurt. If you have been to Scandinavia, you have tried or heard of Danish’ koldskål or Swede’s Filmjölk – Sky is something similar if you mix with some berries, buts, or crushed biscuit. It can be bought in any grocery or convenience store.
The idea of travelling to Iceland can be intimidating due to its cost, but don’t stop yourself from exploring this magnificent part of the world. I really hope that you found these tips for travelling to Iceland helpful. I had a great time during my visit and I look forward to visiting again in the future.
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