What to Know about Iceland

The coldest month doesn’t mean less to do—January is great for exploring glaciers, hot springs, and more. Short days don’t stop Iceland from being a top travel destination!

Jolabokaflod, translating to "Christmas Book Flood," is a unique and cherished tradition in Iceland, celebrated on Christmas Eve. This tradition involves giving and receiving new books, but its essence lies in the joy of reading them together.

Hit the road for an adventure-filled Iceland Ring Road trip—your golden ticket to exploring the country’s top regions and landmarks. Discover black sand beaches, serene fjords, and charming coastal towns at your own pace. Get maps, daily stops, and tips for the best self-drive experience.

Route 1 circles Iceland like a thread through a dream—unchanging in shape, but endlessly varied in experience. Some speed through in a day; others linger, drawn to every glacier, fjord, and thundering fall. But what time is the most optimal for a typical traveler in Iceland?

Driving in Iceland is an adventure—spontaneous stops at remote fishing villages, awe-inspiring natural wonders, and thundering waterfalls. But behind the beauty lie real hurdles. Out on the road, your journey is dictated as much by the whims of Viking weather and rugged terrain as your vehicle’s engine.

Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland is one of the most memorable experiences. Find out about the best time of year and the best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland!

July is the warmest month in Iceland, so it's an ideal month to visit. Here are some fun ideas on what to do when visiting this wonderful country in July!

Have you ever stood next to a thundering waterfall, walked through a field of blooming flowers, and felt the fresh air of adventure all around you? That is what Iceland is like in May. Longer days, lush greenery, crowd-free attractions—Icelanders' favorite time of year!

Come summer, the midnight sun phenomenon in Iceland casts its magic onto the island. Instead of the usual curtain of night, the sky stays painted in a gentle amber light, as if dusk decided to linger just a little longer. It’s every bit as mesmerizing as the Northern Lights, but in its own warm, glowing way.

When is the best time to go to Iceland? Experience the Northern Lights-lit winter, the Midnight Sun-drenched summer, or the landscape-transforming spring and fall.

Iceland in spring combines the best of both worlds—longer days and milder temperatures without peak-season crowds. With nature coming alive and the Northern Lights still painting the sky, it’s a fantastic time to experience the country’s charm.

Arriving in a new country can be an exciting, stressful, and confusing moment—especially in the airport. The best medicine? Be prepared! Here is your guide on how to get to and from Keflavík Airport in Iceland.

Considering an April trip to Iceland? While winter conditions still prevail, early signs of spring make their appearance. Take full advantage of lower travel costs and significantly extended daylight hours, making this off-peak month a practical option for your journey.

Iceland is an expensive country, but there are budget-friendly ways to visit. Discover how to embrace its magic while keeping your wallet happy.

Experience nature at its rawest as the Iceland hiking trails take you across rugged peaks, icy plateaus, and ancient lava flows.

Packing for Iceland depends on the season—bring the essentials you’ll actually use, plus a few often overlooked items to handle any weather.

Iceland’s epic sights come with epic weather—smart clothing choices will make all the difference. You only need to learn a few basics!

The weather in Iceland is so unique that it deserves special mention. Iceland is one of the few countries where you can experience all the seasons in one day. It changes so quickly that Icelanders even joke about it: "Don't like the weather? Just wait 5 minutes!”

As excitement builds for the 2026 total solar eclipse in Iceland, we reached out to Sævar Helgi Bragason, or Stjörnu Sævar, for his insights. He’s a famous Icelandic science educator and communicator with years of experience in astronomy. Sævar is an author of science books and a well-known voice on radio and TV.

Save the date. The Iceland Solar Eclipse of 2026 is coming soon. This rare event will happen in one of the world’s most stunning places. During a total solar eclipse, the moon entirely obscures the sun, briefly transforming daylight into darkness. It’s an amazing and unique sight that’s worth seeing. We’ve gathered all the key information you need: how eclipses work, where the blackout will be visible, and the best locations to watch it.

When traveling to a new country many like to make an estimated budget and for a country like Iceland, it is recommended. But how much are things in Iceland?

June in Iceland is a breath of fresh air after the long winter. The temperatures get milder, the days stretch long, and lush landscapes burst into color. It’s a prime time to visit Iceland and experience the magic of the midnight sun, discover local events, explore the dramatic scenery, and enjoy outdoor adventures.

Iceland has many natural hot springs and geothermal pools to choose from. They can be found all over the country and are great for relaxation. But did you know that there are certain rules you should follow? Find out what they are in our ultimate guide to Icelandic swimming pool etiquette!

Iceland's most powerful volcano, Katla, is overdue for an eruption. Read up about what's been going on at Katla and whether it's expected to erupt in the foreseeable future.

How does hiking differ from trekking? Or maybe it’s the same thing, so both of these words are actually used synonymously? While they do refer to the same activity of going for a walk, hiking and trekking are actually different.

I am Icelandic, so this might seem like a weird thing to write about, but the more I travel, the more I realize that Icelanders, living on an island far in the North, have slowly developed a culture that is quite different from anywhere else.

With countless waterfalls and endless coasts, there is an overwhelming amount to discover in Iceland. So how do you plan for the right amount of days to make sure you get to see the best of Iceland? We’ve broken that down for you.

What is Eyjafjallajökull? How do you pronounce it? Is it true that it’s an active volcano? Our blog will satisfy all your curiosities about this geological wonder in Iceland.

Iceland is one of the world's best countries for solo travel. It’s safe, beautiful, and filled with excitement and adventure!

On the morning of December 12th, Icelandic children will wake up with a smile on their faces and butterflies in their bellies. The reason? Yule Lads, or as we like to call them in Icelandic, Jólasveinar! And not only are there 13 of them, but there is also Grýla (their mum), Leppalúði (their dad), and the Christmas cat!

Ensure you’ve got the gear to get you everywhere you need to go in Iceland. You’ll need some sturdy footwear for tough terrain. But what should you be looking for in a good pair of hiking boots?

Want to head to Iceland already prepared for your adventure? Our guide to simple ice climbing techniques is a great way to calm your nerves before putting on your crampons.

As Christmas is fast approaching, we all know what that actually means: spending time with our loved ones, showering each other with attention and gifts, and of course, enjoying Christmas-themed foods and drinks. How different is Christmas cuisine in Iceland from the one we're used to?

From ancient Norse mythology and Viking folklore to modern-day symbolism, the raven has always been revered in Iceland. But why is this bird so interesting? Where does the mystery come from? How do Icelanders feel about this blackbird?

Wondering how Iceland will celebrate New Year's Eve in 2025? In this guide, uncover the unique traditions, experience the local festivities, and pinpoint the top places to welcome the new year.

Icelandic Christmas? It's a whole different jingle! Beyond the twinkling lights and festive cheer, there are unique traditions that make Iceland's ‘Yuletide’ truly special. Ever heard of 13 mischievous Yule Lads instead of just one Santa? Or the Christmas Cat that eats children? Dive into Christmas traditions in Iceland below!

For scuba divers of all experience levels, capturing the perfect photo can be a magical souvenir from your time in Iceland. But how can you take the perfect picture? What settings should your camera be on? And how can you maximize light conditions?

What should you know about tipping culture in Iceland? Find out what is the best way to show your gratitude once you’ve experienced Icelandic hospitality.

Tourism in Iceland is increasing, and more and more cheap airlines are opening direct flights to this beautiful Arctic island. So, what airline should you choose to fly to Iceland?

Find out about Icelandic Women: Do you get paid to marry them? What about gender equality? Who are some of the most famous Icelandic women? What is it like dating in Iceland? And so much more.

Living in the waters surrounding the land of fire and ice are some of nature's most enchanting creatures – dolphins. These charismatic marine mammals grace Iceland's seas with their presence, turning the vast ocean into their very own aquatic playground.

Ever Wondered How Northern Lights Get Their Colors? Discover the Northern Lights' mesmerizing world and discover the secrets behind their captivating colors. From dazzling green and pale yellow to elusive red and ethereal purple, this article uncovers the science and magic behind each hue of Auroras!

Want to learn more about the second largest mammal on Earth? Find out about these majestic and elusive whales and how to see them in Iceland.

As travelers, one of the most exciting parts of the trip is to pick souvenirs for your loved ones back home. We often don't put enough research into finding the best souvenir shops and gifts. This blog is dedicated to all of you who are traveling to Iceland and want to find the best Icelandic gifts for people back home.

Iceland's coastal waters are home to a remarkable variety of marine life, and among the captivating creatures found here are the long-finned pilot whales.

The shores of Iceland are a hive of marine activity, from playful humpback whales propelling themselves above the surface to isolated blue whales navigating the deep waters.

Considering moving to Iceland? With its enchanting landscapes and northern charm, Iceland has become a sought-after destination not just for travel but also for relocation. If you're wondering how to move to Iceland and start a new life in Iceland, here's everything you need to know.

Iceland is nicknamed the land of ice and fire. The fire represents the abundance of volcanoes and volcanic systems tucked away in the colorful landscape. Here are the top 15 Iceland Volcanoes!

What makes the Icelandic Viking horse unique? Is it its incredible soft gait, tölt? Or maybe their friendly demeanor? Is it that they grow up in open fields? Or that they have been purely bred since the Vikings brought them? Let's find out!

Have you ever considered Iceland as a top-tier extreme water sports destination? Here are some of the questions about jet boats and rafting in Iceland in particular.

Travelers to Iceland usually want to experience the country’s untouched wilderness and open spaces. If this is your goal, there’s no better way to travel around Iceland than camping. Here are local’s pro tips on the best places to camp in Iceland.

Iceland is a popular travel destination among the LGBTQ+ community. Here’s a quick guide to gay Iceland, from gay rights to annual events and dating.

Planning your trip to see the whales of Iceland? One of the main questions is: What should you wear to go on a whale-watching tour to stay warm and comfortable? Here are some useful tips and a short list of the most important things to have.

Located on the rugged and raw Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a statue that represents an intriguing character in alleged Icelandic history: Bárður Saga Snæfellsás. The structure, which is made out of stone sourced locally, was designed and created by a sculptor called Ragnar Kjartansson to represent the story that has captured the minds of locals and tourists alike for hundreds of years.

In 2023 Iceland was ranked 3rd safest country in the world. Find out why Iceland has been among the top safest places in the world for years.

Planning a trip around the Golden Circle? If you are looking for accommodation, we’ve compiled a list of interesting and convenient stays.

Hoping to catch a glimpse of the biggest animal on Earth? Sightings of blue whales in Iceland are rare, but this information can help increase your chances.

Iceland is a true paradise for whale lovers. With over 20 species living in the waters around the country, it's no wonder seeing a whale is at the top of many visitors' bucket lists. Among the most popular are orcas, or killer whales. Although these animals aren't whales, they are often referred to as killer whales because of their impressive hunting skills. This has made seeing orcas in Iceland a highly sought-after activity.

The dramatic geological features of Iceland attract visitors and scientists from all over the world. It demonstrates the dramatic power of mother nature. The epic geology, which is heavily impacted by volcanic activity, is drastically different across the island, making it a must-visit for those interested in the topic.

Iceland is known to be a shooting spot for famous movies, but this beautiful country has also been featured in popular music videos. Some of them, like Justin Bieber's video, became so popular that places in Iceland are nicknamed after them even today (yes, I'm talking about Fjaðrárgljúfur, also known as 'Bieber's Canyon'). So, what famous music videos were shot in Iceland? Some of these might really surprise you!

Planning your honeymoon can be both tedious and exciting. To get started, you must answer the very first question: Where should I go on my honeymoon? We all have our travel bucket list, but where is it that you and your partner desire to explore together? While you are looking for some inspiration, we have got some ideas on how to plan a honeymoon in Iceland. From best honeymoon activities in Iceland to must-visit places, we have got them all covered here. Don't forget to bookmark this page to ensure you have all the information that you'll need to plan your romantic getaway with ease.

Just about any time of the year is a good time to visit Iceland, but February is especially magical.

Curious about which plants you’ll spot when travelling in Iceland? Explore Icelandic flora with us, including some of the most common flowers in Iceland.

Find out everything about staying at an Airbnb in Iceland; price, rules, and the best listings. Are you looking for the best Airbnbs in Reykjavík, or maybe the best Airbnbs on the Ring Road? Here are the top lists of the best in Iceland!

An important factor when traveling is where you spend the night. To help with this part of your travel planning we have put together a list of the best accommodation options in Reykjavík!

Check out the best hotels in Iceland to watch the Northern Lights! Best price and value, proximity to main attractions and more!

With the borders across the world opening, people are beginning to travel again. Except the travel trends are not the same as before the pandemic.

Here you’ll find information on Safety Regulations and Diving Equipment necessary for each diving tour. Please read the following carefully and comply with any listed requirements. If you feel you’re not able to comply with some or all of the safety regulations, we recommend choosing Snorkeling at Silfra instead.

You don’t need a spaceship to get to Mars — just a snowmobile, crampons and a harness.

Choose the Best Snorkel Gear for Iceland’s Silfra Fissure.

Finding a new ice cave is never easy. This mission starts around the first two weeks of September, after a storm and, possibly, a glacier flood, the elements needed to carve a new ice cave. We never know what to expect, as the structure is different every year and the very nature of the cave varies significantly depending on how it formed.

Iceland has, for some time now, been one of the more popular destinations to visit in Europe. With its dramatic landscapes, remoteness, glaciers, and volcanoes one should not be too surprised. But, during your visit, you will need a place to stay. To help with this problem we have put together a list of the Top 10 Best Hotels in Iceland!

Bjork is unquestionably the most famous Icelander ever to exist but how much do you know about her? How did her career begin and how has it shaped? Let’s get to know the famous singer Björk!

Iceland is a country of great extremes. The winters are dark almost 24/7 and the summers are the complete opposite, providing us with the midnight sun. Here we have listed the time of sunrise, sunset and how much daylight you will get each month.

The Icelandic Sagas are written in the 13th century but cover the history of Icelanders from the 9th century in a fascinating way. Learn all about it!

Music has always played a big role in the life of Icelanders. First through rímur in the Viking Age, later through hymns and now you can see Icelanders performing and producing all over the world stage. Where did it all begin and which Icelandic artists should you follow today? Read all about it!

Iceland boasts not just the best whale watching in Europe but is also one of the best places to whale watch in the world. The country’s unique position between two ocean currents in the North Atlantic means that its waters are filled with krill and fish – the perfect attraction for hungry whales and dolphins. Boat tours in Iceland have an amazing success rate and whales often swim right beside the tour boats.

Icelanders are known for great style and beautiful designs so a visit to Iceland should always be topped with an authentic souvenir, but where to buy it? Here is your guide to the top brands and best shops both in Reykjavik and on the Ring Road!

Here is everything you might want to know about Iceland. From how the island formed, to the settlement of Vikings, the historical sagas, the fight for independence, the volcanic eruptions, the ice ages and where we stand today. Let’s get to know Iceland!

Renewable energy is a big characteristic in Iceland’s persona and is something Icelanders are truly proud of, but where does the geothermal energy in Iceland come from? How much green energy do Icelanders really use, and what do they use it for? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this article!

We all know and love their music but here you will everything about the Icelandic band Kaleo. From their start in a small town near Reykjavík to their Gold-albums and fun facts!

Iceland was destined to be unique. As one of the last countries in the world to have human settlers, and as an island located north of almost everywhere, it’s not surprising that we have our own way of doing things. What seems normal and every day for Icelanders might seem exotic or eccentric to visitors. From our history to our land and sea to the people themselves, Iceland has forged an identity all its own. Here are some interesting facts that might surprise you.

What currency is used in Iceland? What does Iceland money look like and what is the story behind it? Where to exchange currency in Iceland? How can I save money in Iceland? What is the exchange rate? Here you will find all this information along with so many other helpful things + a Currency Converter. The Ultimate Guide to Iceland Currency!

Icelandic food is known for its fresh ingredients and unique dishes. Foodies across the world come to the island to try out iconic Icelandic cuisine such as fermented shark and tasty skyr yogurt. Read all you need to know about traditional Icelandic food, its history, and where to find it today.

With remote work on the rise, many people are exploring the opportunity of working remotely from abroad. Is Iceland a good place for digital nomads, and what are the requirements for living and working from Iceland for an extended period of time? In this blog post, we'll answer these questions and more.

Daníel Páll Jónasson, 40, jiggles a lot of plates. A physical geographer and photography enthusiast, who works in sales and IT for a cleaning products wholesaler, he is a father of two girls and a published author of a photography book about volcanoes — among other things. Jonasson, a Reykjavik native, said he had traveled around Iceland every year since he was a child, so “I know a bit about every place in the country.” He also really loves volcanoes— since the eruption of Fagradalsfjall in 2021, he has hiked to the site over 30 times.

Meradalir volcano on the Reykjanes Peninsula about 17 miles southwest of Reykjavik erupted a little over a week ago after several weeks of multiple earthquakes. We invite you to relive that epic day through the eyes of an Arctic Adventures guide, Nick Reeves, who made the difficult hike to the eruption site just hours after the firsts outbursts of lava grabbed the Icelandic—and global—headlines.

September in Iceland - What to do? What to wear? What to pack? What is the weather like in September in Iceland? How to drive in September? Can you see the Northern Lights in September in Iceland? And so much more - Read up about September in Iceland before visiting right here!

Are you flying to Iceland? Here is everything you need to know about the Icelandic Airports both Keflavík International Airport and the Domestic ones!

Iceland is a remote island located in the North Atlantic Ocean on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. It is known worldwide for its immense geological activity and large glacier and has therefore often been nicknamed the land of ice and fire.

Iceland is renowned for its diverse landscape and a wide variety of amazing things to see and do. There is so much to see, so much to do, and often in a limited amount of time. Planning holidays in Iceland might seem daunting at first, but we put together this guide to help you out.

August marks the end of summer and the beginning of new adventures. With fall approaching, the warm weather starts to wind down. However, this only enriches the experience you’re going to have in Iceland.

Iceland is famous for having inexhaustible geothermal energy resources, but did you know that most electricity comes from hydroelectric power? Read on to find out more fascinating facts about hydroelectric power in Iceland.

Everyone likes to wake up to a breathtaking view, and Iceland offers some of the best on the planet. Would you like to see a shimmering glacier or a giant waterfall first thing in the morning? Read our guide to learn about camping in Iceland and get some insider tips from a true local camper!

Will Ferrell's Eurovision film has generated significant buzz among Icelanders. After watching, it's easy to see why. 'Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga' tells the story of aspiring vocal duo Lars Erickssong and Sigrit Ericksdóttir (Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams), who land the opportunity to represent Iceland in the Eurovision Song Contest.

There are endless reasons to go to Iceland. There’s no question why everyone is travelling to Iceland these days — the country has long been known for its stunning landscapes. Beyond the scenery, however, there are many other things that are interesting about Iceland and Icelanders.

Want to get away from the crowds? The world is filled with beautifully quiet, isolated, and pristine spots – the trick is to know where to find them. To help you plan the ultimate holiday getaway, we’ve drummed up a list of the most isolated places on Earth and how to get there.

Interview with professional diving instructor Nick Reeves. Read to learn how to become a diving instructor and what you should never do at Silfra Fissure!

If you’ve ever wondered where you would hide during a zombie apocalypse, look no further.

Just recently, Bilbo the Samoyed Puppy & our new Junior Guide has made a startling discovery – Iceland’s newest ice cave! Read all about the legend behind the cave and our favorite pup guide.

Icelandic public transport is pretty good, with easy access to most of the sights, but it does change seasonally. Here’s a quick guide to getting around the country.

Iceland has led the world on many fronts, from social issues and law to exploration and discoveries. Here are a few of our biggest innovations…

Iceland has a range of hostels and hotels – but which type of accommodation is right for you? Here’s a quick guide to help you choose.

We talked to hundreds of our customers to find out their views on the environment, travel and the Icelandic tourism industry itself.

The best souvenir you can pick up while in Iceland is probably the Icelandic Wool Sweater, which is in Icelandic called Lopapeysa. Here you can find all about!

Do Icelanders actually believe in elves, is it a publicity stunt or maybe just a myth? What do these mystical figures look like? Where do they live? Where can they be found? Here you will find out everything there is to know, straight from the source, an Icelander!

Here is everything you might want to know about the Icelandic Flag. What is the history behind it? Who designed? Is it true there was once a fish on the Icelandic Flag? And fun facts!

Where do Icelandic names come from? What are the most common names in Iceland? And, how do the last names work? Let's find out all of this and so much more in this Guide to Icelandic names!

Did you know that the Icelandic sheepdog is known for its fluffy coat, curled tail, pointy ears, cheerful character, loud bark and friendly matter? Well, now you do. Let's find out more!

Vikings are a huge part of Iceland's rich and exciting history: Here are some interesting facts about Iceland’s early settlers that might surprise you…

Do you remember Hedwig, Harry Potter's white owl? Did you know that the white Snow Owl is found in Iceland? Here you can find all about Snow Owls and other Fantastic Beasts living in Iceland!

All about Trees in Iceland | Why are there no trees in Iceland? Or are there actually forests in Iceland and if yes, where can you find Icelandic forests? Iceland used to be covered with trees but now they are hard to find. What is the reason behind it? What type of tree survives in Iceland? Here is everything you might want to know about trees in Iceland.

Iceland, the island on the edge of the Arctic is also a fabulous place to spot seals. There are quite a few areas which are known for their seal colonies, making your chances of spotting a seal or a group of them, known as a pod or herd, much higher.

Icelandic, the language of Iceland is one of the most difficult languages one can start to learn. Its miraculous ways of changing each and every word into numerous different forms to make it fit into a sentence will confuse even the brightest of minds.

Icelanders make great beer, that's a fact! We can't make wine so we focused on beer and since the beer was banned until 1989 we brew it with passion and privilege. Are you looking to know about the most popular beer in Iceland? Where to buy the best beer in Iceland? What is so special about Icelandic beer culture? We got you, read more in the blog!

So we have a new government and there is no way to tell how it’s going to go really. We have a three party government ranging from far left (Vinstri Grænir) to far right (Sjálfstæðisflokkurinn) and then the middle party (Framsókn).

Iceland has been an inspiration to artist, poets, and novelists for ages and there is no end in sight. Here is a list of the top 10 Icelandic authors and novelists you should check out. Some of the books have even been made into films for those who need a quick fix and it's all listed here!

Thor, the god of thunder. How did Iceland’s favorite hero take over the world? And how can you walk in the footsteps of this Norse god? As the new Thor: Ragnarok movie is almost in the cinemas, we decided to dive into the world of Thor.

Bardabunga Icelandic Volcano is always showing some activity. Last erupted in 2014 but where does the volcano stand today? Here you will get a chance to learn all about this beautiful Volcano and where it stands today. Will it be the next Icelandic eruption or is it quieting down? All about Bardabunga volcano.

Those who visit Iceland can expect to see many runes (‘rúnir’ in Icelandic) in local shops together with hearing a lot of talk about these and Icelandic magic staves. Runes and staves were first brought to Iceland during the time when Iceland was discovered by Vikings.

The dating life in Iceland has long been a heated discussion, but what is really true about the things people say about it? Where do people meet in Iceland and what are the dating rules in the country of ice and fire?

The Icelandic National soccer team. They are fierce, they never ever give up and they are strong as hell. The team has had amazing players throughout the years and playing football has been the love of their lives.

What was this creature that appeared in the God of War? Here Sanna digs deep into the origin through Icelandic legends.

The original recipe for the delicious and famous Plokkfiskur, Icelandic fish stew, with an added deluxe version. Bon Appetit!

What is the story behind the people of Arctic Adventures?

The Blue lagoon is often the first thing you hear about when someone tells you about Iceland. Actually, 85% of the people who travel to Iceland visit the place. This is an article worth reading BEFORE going becoming one of the 85%.