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Iceland Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, iceland - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Last Update: Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise normal precautions in Iceland.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Iceland.

If you decide to travel to Iceland: 

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Iceland. 
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist . 

Travel Advisory Levels

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Iceland Travel Restrictions Continue to Change—Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Vaccinated americans can still travel to iceland with no quarantine, but testing requirements and social-distancing measures are back due to a spike in covid-19 cases this summer..

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Entrance of an ice cave inside Vatnajökull glacier in southern Iceland

Photo by Albert Russ/Shutterstock

Ever since April 6, 2021, all travelers (regardless of origin) who can show proof of a full COVID-19 vaccination or prior COVID-19 infection have had permission to enter Iceland. But just a month after all social-distancing rules were lifted on June 26, a rise in new cases of coronavirus—even among its highly vaccinated population—has prompted the Icelandic government to reinstate testing requirements for all travelers en route to Iceland. Before you start plotting your trip to see the still-erupting Fagradalsfjall volcano , here’s what you need to know about Iceland’s new travel restrictions.

Before you book your ticket . . .

Make sure you can show proof of one of two things: a full COVID-19 vaccination—be it Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca, or Johnson & Johnson (Janssen)—via one of the official accepted forms , or an accepted document that shows prior COVID-19 infection (for example, a positive PCR test that’s older than 14 days). Note that for proof of prior infection, you need documented laboratory results; clinical diagnoses and rapid diagnostic tests (antigen or antibody tests) are not accepted.

As of July 27 , vaccinated travelers and those who can prove previous infection born in 2004 or earlier must also now provide proof of a negative PCR or antigen test that is no more than 72 hours old before departing for Iceland.

While both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers without proof of prior infection can visit, the vaccinated and those who had COVID previously won’t have to quarantine. The unvaccinated face a host of other tests and restrictions (see below).

Children born in 2005 or later are allowed to enter Iceland with their parents and do not have to be tested at the border or be subject to quarantine.

All visitors to Iceland born in 2004 or earlier need to preregister on this website before entering the country.

Even with these new travel restrictions, don’t expect to have the plane to yourself on the way over. Between the excitement of Iceland’s volcano tourism, its reopening to international travelers, and the country’s perennial appeal, AFAR’s trusted travel advisors are reporting a flood of interest and bookings.

Do I need to quarantine on arrival?

Vaccinated travelers: If you’re vaccinated or can provide proof of a previous COVID infection, you won’t have to quarantine.

Unvaccinated travelers: However, unvaccinated travelers without proof of prior infection must present negative PCR test results on arrival and take another PCR test upon arrival then quarantine for five days at an approved accommodation and test again at the end of quarantine to be released.

What are the COVID counts and vaccine rates in Iceland?

Iceland has been lauded as one of the more successful countries at containing spring 2020’s COVID-19 infections. After the country managed to contain a larger wave of infections in fall 2020, a spike in new coronavirus cases this summer has led to a tightening of restrictions once again in July 2021.

Iceland has approved several COVID-19 vaccinations for use, including Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca, or Johnson & Johnson (Janssen), and is currently providing free, nonmandatory vaccinations to citizens. As of 2019, Iceland has 356,991 residents; according to official Iceland vaccination statistics updated in early August, more than 255,322 residents have been fully vaccinated, and more than 275,173 have received at least one dose. That means roughly 71 percent of Iceland’s population has been fully vaccinated—one of the highest rates in the world .

On August 9, 2021, the CDC added Iceland to its “Avoid Travel” list and issued a Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19 in Iceland alert. The U.S. State Department also issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory to Iceland on the same day “due to COVID-19 related restrictions,” indicating a “very high level of COVID-19 in the country.”

The country has reported 30 coronavirus-related deaths since February 2020. The CDC warns: If you must travel to Iceland, get fully vaccinated before travel. All travelers need to stay six feet from others, avoid crowds, wear a mask in public spaces where distancing isn’t possible, and wash their hands. By comparison, the U.S. State Department currently lists Israel, France, and Aruba as Level 4 (Do Not Travel) while Mexico and Italy are Level 3.

What kind of mitigation rules are in place?

Being fully vaccinated doesn’t ensure you can’t catch or spread variants of the virus, so heeding the country’s social-distancing and masking rules remains paramount.

The Icelandic government reimposed social-distancing rules again on July 25. They will remain in effect until at least August 27 , when they’ll be updated on the country’s official COVID-19 page . You must keep one meter (roughly three feet) between people who are not “closely linked” to you and wear a mask when social distancing isn’t possible. Face masks that cover the nose and mouth are still required on public transport (all operating as normal), and in taxis, stores, salons, as well as at sports events, movie theaters, and concerts. While restaurant owners can decide their own masking rules, there are also limits to the number of people allowed inside restaurants and bars, as well as theaters, grocery stores, pharmacies, and museums to help ensure social distancing.

Iceland is extremely dependent on tourism (2.3 million visitors arrived there in 2018, according to the Icelandic Tourist Board ). If you follow Iceland’s protocols and laws, it’s safe to say you will be welcomed.

How much is actually open (museums, bars, restaurants)?

From museums to outdoor tours, expect to find most things open and operating across Iceland, albeit under new COVID-19 norms, with reservations often required and reduced hours and capacity possible.

Bars, nightclubs, and restaurants that serve alcohol are open but have an 11 p.m. curfew and allow a maximum of 100 guests. While mask use isn’t mandated at these venues, all guests are required to leave their tracing information including name, ID number, and telephone number. Swimming pools and hot springs, including the famous Blue Lagoon attraction, are open but operating at a 75 percent limited capacity.

To be safe, call ahead of time to make sure whatever you’re planning to do is available. (Most Icelanders speak excellent English, but you can always request your hotel call for you.)

What are the requirements for returning to the United States?

Negative COVID-19 tests are required to enter the United States from a foreign country, including Iceland. This applies to everyone, including all U.S. citizens and fully vaccinated travelers. Both viral antigen tests or nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT), such as a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, are accepted. The test must be taken within three days of your return to the U.S.

You can book an advance appointment for a COVID-19 antigen test in Keflavík and Reykjavík through testcovid.is. Expect to pay 6,900 ISK (about US$55) and results will be emailed to you in 15–25 minutes, so you can book this test on your way to the Keflavík airport. The Keflavík site is open every day from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the Reykjavík site is open Monday through Friday between 5 a.m. and 1 p.m.

In May, the CDC also approved the use of at-home tests with a telehealth video call for international arrivals. So you can pack one of those—which range from $25 to $50—and complete the test in the comfort of your own accommodations up to three days before your return flight home.

There’s no need to quarantine in Iceland while you wait for your test results. Upon arrival in the U.S. with your negative COVID-19 test result, there’s also no need to quarantine.

What about old-school things like “needing a visa”–does that apply here?

Americans don’t need a visa to visit Iceland and can stay for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes. A full list of nationalities that require visas to travel to Iceland can be found here .

What airlines have flights to Iceland right now?

Icelandair flies year-round from Boston daily, and it restarted daily service from New York (JFK and EWR), Washington, D.C., Chicago, Denver, and Seattle last May through this December. You can also book flights from Minneapolis (five times a week) or Orlando (four times a week) now through December. Seasonal flights four times a week depart from Portland, Oregon, now through October 31.

Delta’s daily service to Reykjavík–Keflavík from JFK started back up on May 1 and resumed from Boston on May 20 and from Minneapolis/St. Paul on May 27.

United started daily service from Chicago to Reykjavík July 1 to run through October 3. United’s daily flights from Newark to Reykjavík resumed June 3 through October 29.

A recent search on Google Flights for nonstop round trips from New York were about $350, about $430 from Boston, and about $650 with one layover from Los Angeles.

Any suggestions on places to stay or tour operators?

Some of our favorite places to stay and tour operators in Iceland include:

Hidden Iceland

AFAR’s digital content director Laura Dannen Redman flew via Icelandair out of JFK in May and traveled with Hidden Iceland, a bespoke travel company that specializes in small group and private tours with an emphasis on active travel. “My husband and I had a guided tour with Hidden Iceland’s Ryan Connolly—it was like road tripping with a (very knowledgeable) friend. The late-May trip started in dramatic fashion with a twilight hike the day we landed to watch the Fagradalsfjall volcano erupt, which is now one of my top travel experiences of all time. We then went on a two-day Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon tour and glacier hike in the UNESCO protected Vatnajökull National Park . The nature was stunning—next level—and the adventures across the country were made for social distancing.”

G Adventures

Founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip, an AFAR 2018 Travel Vanguard winner, small adventure tour operator G Adventures has more than a dozen Iceland itineraries departing as soon as August 20, 2021, all the way through summer 2022 for those who like to plan ahead.

For a last-minute trip, the three-day Classic Reykjavik Summer Mini Adventure is $899 per person for its August 20 departure; it takes you through Iceland’s capital, the Kerid Crater, and Videy Island, with Blue Lagoon and whale watching excursions. For a more comprehensive itinerary, the seven-day Best of Iceland — Plus trip is $2,799 per person for its September 11 departure. During the guided trek, you’ll get to hike a glacier at Skaftafell National Park, visit the black-sand Reynisfjara beach near Vík, and more.

All G Adventure bookings made now through December 31, 2021, for travel departing now through December 31, 2022, can be canceled and rebooked up to 14 days prior to departure date to allow travelers a little more peace of mind in case they have to reschedule.

Classic Journeys

You can’t go wrong with a Classic Journeys guide —locals who are handpicked by the company founders based on their knowledge, skill, and ability to make you feel welcome, wherever you are. In Iceland, you may be led by a descendent of 9th-century Vikings. Its Iceland Culture + Walking itinerary is a great bet: “Guided by dyed-in-the-wool Icelanders, you’ll enjoy the captivating chaos of Iceland’s nature, interwoven with fascinating Norse mythology. Walk some of the most cinematic paths on the planet—over ancient glaciers, vivid moss fields and black-sand beaches—to Viking ruins, waterfalls, and fishing villages for lunch with local families.”

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon is an AFAR favorite spa hotel that gives you private access to the famed lagoon, while the minimalist-chic Silica Hotel provides easy access to the Blue Lagoon and Silica Lagoon.

Hotel Ranga , about 60 miles south of Reykjavík on the island’s south coast, where the suites are themed after the seven continents, has an onsite observatory for stargazing and offers tours through Southcoast Adventure to ice caves, volcanoes, and glaciers as well as horseback adventures.

Rental cars

Holdur , the largest rental car company in Iceland, has rental locations across the island and minivans, cargo vans, campers, and motor homes in its fleet. However, as in the United States, there’s also a rental car shortage in Iceland this summer. If you’re lucky enough to find one available, you’ll likely be faced with sky-high prices . A recent search on Kayak showed prices starting at $997 for a one-week rental on small economy vehicles in August. If you wait until mid-September, starting prices drop to a more reasonable $367.

With additional reporting by Laura Dannen Redman.

This story was originally published on May 4, 2021; it was updated on August 13, 2021, with current information.

>>Next: How to Have Your Dream Vacation in Iceland

Covid-19 Information About Traveling to Iceland

Iceland Removes All Domestic and Border Restrictions

What is the border policy in iceland right now, is it safe to travel to iceland right now, the current covid-19 status in iceland, what makes iceland safe during covid-19, how do i get a pcr test before returning home, what if covid-19 affects my travel booking.

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Are businesses and tours still operating?

Can i book after i arrive, am i safe to make a booking with guide to iceland.

Iceland is one of the world's top travel destinations for travelers. On this page, you can find up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 in Iceland and what impact it may have on your travel plans when visiting Iceland.

Below you can read about the latest COVID-19 numbers in Iceland, the current Icelandic border policy, how to safely travel in Iceland during COVID-19, the vaccination progress in Iceland, and the COVID-friendly policies at Guide to Iceland, among others.

ICELAND IS OPEN! After two years of COVID-19-related safety measures, the Icelandic Ministry of Health removed all restrictions on February 25th, 2022.

Travelers to Iceland may now cross the border through the same process in place before the pandemic. You’ll no longer need to present test results or stay in quarantine after your flight. Once you’ve reached your final destination, you’ll be free to experience the incredible culture and attractions of Iceland without restrictions.

The Icelandic border is open to all travelers with valid visas. PCR, rapid testing, and quarantine are no longer required. Travelers are advised to follow common-sense safety protocols whenever possible but are free to participate in local activities, events, and tours without restrictions.

After two years of pandemic-related limitations. Iceland is one of the most stunning travel destinations in the world. It features unique natural beauty that brings visitors from every corner of the globe. If you've been considering a journey to Iceland, now is the time to experience the natural splendor and friendly people of this amazing island.  

Iceland is a relatively small country that has been united in preventing the spread of COVID-19 by following a strict testing and tracing protocol throughout the pandemic. These proactive measures successfully kept infection rates low throughout the pandemic, making Iceland one of the most consistently safe travel destinations on the planet.

Every country in the world is dealing with COVID-19 in one way or another. However, there are a few things that make Iceland a safer place to visit than other countries. 

Small population

With just under 370,000 people, Iceland is one of the smaller countries in the world. Having a smaller population makes the virus easier to track and allows travelers to travel without interacting with many people. 

Low population density

Almost 70% of the population lives in the capital area. This leaves much of the country to be explored without many people. The population density is low at a little over three people per square kilometer.

Typical exploration activities in Iceland

Iceland is known for its vast open spaces and unique landscapes. The majority of Iceland’s activities are centered around nature. Whether chasing the northern lights or exploring the beautiful waterfalls in the countryside, travelers will likely spend most of their vacation outside in nature. This gives them a unique opportunity to protect themselves by keeping a safe distance from other people. 

Many countries require travelers to have a negative PCR test taken within a specific period before traveling back from Iceland. For many, it is within 72 hours of departure. Please be sure to check your particular home country requirements to know how close to your departure you need to take the test. 

There are multiple  testing centers around the country where you can go for your PCR test.

Travel delays 

While COVID-19 restrictions have been removed throughout the country, there is still a small chance of travel delays while the country undergoes the reopening process. If you purchase a day tour, multi-day tour , or rent a car on Guide to Iceland but test positive on arrival to Iceland or your flight gets delayed or canceled, you can choose to reschedule your trip to another date. If that is not an option for you, you will get a full refund. If you purchase a self-drive tour or guided tour package , you will also get a full refund.

As long as you cancel your booking with at least 24-hours notice, you will be able to reschedule or completely cancel your trip. Accommodation bookings are the only exceptions to this policy. Each establishment has its own cancellation policy. You can find detailed information regarding the individual policy in your email voucher.

Guide to Iceland has honored all refund requests for COVID-19 related cancellations to date. To cancel and get a full refund after arrival, don’t hesitate to contact us  via email with your booking details and test result within 4 hours after receiving the test result.

You can find the full terms of service on each of our product pages.

Guide to Iceland makes sure that every customer receives the services they have purchased. Guide to Iceland will always offer alternative options or free upgrades if a customer books a service with a company that can not deliver it. However, now that the border has reopened without restriction, Icelandic businesses offering tours and other services throughout the country are fully prepared to welcome travelers back.

Restaurants, bars, nightclubs, tours, and other attractions remain open and accept customers without disturbance to their services and hours of operation.

Iceland’s main attraction, nature, has remained open even when restrictions were in place.

Please visit Iceland’s Official Ministry of Health website  for the most up-to-date information on Iceland’s COVID-19 policies.

Yes, you can. But we highly recommend that you book in advance. You will get a full refund if your flight gets canceled or you test positive for COVID-19 on arrival. Booking after arrival will limit your options as availability is limited in Iceland right now.

If you have further questions, please drop us an email , and we will help you with your trip.

Yes, absolutely! Here at Guide to Iceland, we’re committed to ensuring those enjoying our experiences’ safety and welfare. Therefore, we are honoring our cancellation policy fully, which you can read more about in our terms and conditions . In short, you can never lose a booking with us. If you choose to cancel your booking, please email us at [email protected] , and we will process your request. 

We look forward to seeing you in Iceland!

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Iceland Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Iceland

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Iceland entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to Iceland from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Iceland.

Can I travel to Iceland if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Iceland without restrictions.

Can I travel to Iceland without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Iceland without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Iceland?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Iceland.

Can I travel to Iceland without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Iceland?

Mask usage in Iceland is not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Iceland?

Restaurants in Iceland are open. Bars in Iceland are .

About Iceland

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Iceland and COVID-19

Visiting iceland.

There are no COVID-19 restrictions in Iceland, either domestically or at the border. Iceland welcomes you.

25 February 2022

Iceland has lifted all Covid-related restrictions. There will be no disease prevention measures at the borders for passengers traveling to Iceland, regardless of whether individuals are vaccinated or unvaccinated. Additionally, travelers will no longer have to provide proof of vaccination or prior infection. There are no restrictions on social gatherings or quarantine requirements for those infected by COVID-19.

See all further information on Covid.is

Safe travel in Iceland

Driving in Iceland

Weather and climate

Practical things to know when planning a trip to Iceland

Planning on visiting Iceland soon?

Iceland Travel is working within guidelines set forth by the Icelandic health, safety, and tourism authorities during the covid-19 pandemic. Information can be found on the  Directorate of Health  and on  Icelandic Tourist Board .

Information on traveling to and within Iceland, as well as rules at the border can be found on  covid.is .

Some countries may require a negative rapid antigen test or PCR test for travelers to return home. Please check if these rules apply for your home country. From 1st of April 2022 there is a charge for all asymptomatic tests.

For testing and results, It is necessary to have a smart phone (or tablet) and to be able to access your email account while in Iceland. You will receive a barcode for the test to be used at the testing locations and to receive the results of your test via SMS and/or email.

We strongly recommend that you / your clients have appropriate health and travel insurance and are aware of what is covered and included before traveling to Iceland. This is a good precaution in case you / your clients test positive for COVID 19 before traveling, upon arrival or during the trip in Iceland. 

We recommend that all our guests bring their own personal protective equipment they are most comfortable using, such as a mask, gloves and sanitizer.

Covid-19 Q&A

As always, we strongly recommend that our guests obtain appropriate health and travel insurance and are aware of what is covered and included in their policies before they depart home.

If a guest on a tour has any Covid-19 symptoms, it is important to notify the guide/staff on tour and think carefully of your own personal protection and that of your travel companions.

As of February 24, 2022, all COVID restrictions in Iceland will be lifted. However, if health authorities or government recommend or implement restrictions, we will make necessary alterations to the tour for the safety and enjoyment of our guests.

Some countries now require passengers to present a negative COVID-19 test on arrival. You can find more information about how to order a test in Iceland here in the section “Testing of Asymptomatic Individuals for Travel Abroad.” You should book your RAPID ANTIGEN COVID test in advance of your desired test date. Most authorities do not accept SMS results and will require a certificate of your COVID-19 test. You should check whether authorities in your home country will accept an electronic certificate or require a printed one.

Rapid Antigen COVID testing is available in Reykjavík, Akureyri, and the town of Keflavík on the way to the airport. Test results are available within 15 minutes. You can book a test here or here .

• Good to know

How to Visit Iceland from the US – Travel Tips

8 minute read

By Max Naylor

6 February 2023

With glaciers, waterfalls, and vast volcanic landscapes, the Land of Fire and Ice is a magical destination wherever you’re visiting from. Travel to Iceland from the US and discover the thrills and wonders of a completely different world.

While friendly locals and English being spoken widely might remind you of home, there’s so much to transport you to a different world. See glaciers that tumble down to black-sand beaches. Taste unique local dishes. And discover exciting tales from ancient Viking culture.

Whatever your plans may be for your trip to Iceland, it’s worth getting familiar with some practical information first. Read on for some pointers if you’re traveling to Iceland from the US. 

• Check out vacations in Iceland from the United States and find your perfect trip

1. Flying to Iceland from the US

You might be wondering how to travel from the US to Iceland. The only practical way to make the journey is by plane. 

Traveling to Iceland from the US without flying is a bit more of a challenge. It’s possible to catch a container ship from Portland, Maine to Reykjavík, but we wouldn’t recommend it. It takes about 5 weeks! 

How far is Iceland from the US?

At their closest points, between Maine and the Reykjanes peninsula, Iceland and the US are about 2,000 miles (3,220 kilometers) apart. Given its size, though, parts of the US are twice that distance. For example, if you’re in California, you’re 4,000 miles (6,440 km) from Iceland.

That means that flight times will change a lot depending on where you’re traveling from. Flights from New York will take you about 5.5 hours, while those from Seattle can take as long as 8 hours.

How to get to Iceland from the US

There’s only one convenient option for traveling between Iceland and the US, and that’s by plane. 

No matter where you start your journey, you’ll land in Iceland at Keflavík International Airport (KEF). It’s Iceland’s main international terminal, located just outside the capital city of Reykjavík. 

When you book your trip with Iceland Tours, flights aren’t included in the package. This is so you can choose the time, price, and airline that suits you best.

Are there direct flights to Iceland from the US?

Direct flights leave the US for Iceland from 10 different airports: 

• Minneapolis
• Washington D.C.

Typically, these are scheduled so that you’ll arrive in Reykjavík in the morning. 

Of course, there are many connecting flights too, if you don’t have a non-stop link close by.

What airlines fly to Iceland from the US?

You can choose from many airlines that fly between the USA and Iceland. Icelandic carriers including Icelandair and Play run regular services. Or fly with a US airline, such as Delta or United. 

2. What you need to visit Iceland from the US

What you need to bring with you to Iceland will depend on what you’re getting up to and the season you’re planning to visit. But whenever you’re coming, there’s some practical things you need to pack alongside your warm clothes and camera. 

For additional information, check out this handy packing guide .

What are Iceland’s US passport requirements?

If you’re traveling to Iceland, it’s important to check your passport is up to date first. As Iceland is in the Schengen area, you’ll need to follow the same rules as in the rest of Europe.

• Your passport shouldn’t expire less than 3 months after you plan to leave Iceland. (While it’s not strictly necessary, the US Department of State recommends having at least 6 months left.)
• It should have been issued in the last 10 years.
• It needs to have at least 2 pages left empty. This is because it’ll be stamped when you enter Iceland and when returning home.

Do US citizens need a visa for Iceland?

American citizens are exempt from Iceland’s visa requirement if they’re coming for a short trip. But if you’ve spent a lot of time in Europe lately, it’s best to double-check how long you’ve been away.   

US citizens can only travel visa-free in Iceland and the rest of the Schengen area for 90 days in every 180 days. That should include the whole of your stay in Iceland. 

If you want to stay longer than that, you’ll need to apply for a visa. Check with the Icelandic government what you need to do to get one.

Can you drive in Iceland with a US license?

As a tourist, your US driver’s license is perfectly valid to use in Iceland for up to 6 months. If you’re still in the country after that, you’ll need to swap it for a local license. 

Note that you need to have had the license for at least a year before you can drive in Iceland. And you’ll only be able to hire a car if you’re 20 or over. Some vehicle types, such as jeeps and vans, have a minimum rental age of 23.

There’s no need to apply for an International Driving Permit.

Does Iceland accept US dollars?

Iceland’s national currency is the Icelandic króna (ISK). While some stores, restaurants, and hotels very occasionally accept US dollars and euros, you shouldn’t expect to use dollars when you’re away.

It’s worth bearing in mind that most Icelanders just use debit and credit cards to pay, rather than cash. If your regular payment card works abroad, you can use that too. Check with your bank about any fees for using your cards abroad.

Tip: Make sure you know your PIN number before trying to use your card in Iceland. Card payment with signature is not possible in many places.

Find out more about using your money in Iceland .

What’s the Iceland power adapter from the US?

Iceland uses the standard Europlug socket that you’ll see across much of northern Europe. It has round holes for two prongs. Adapters are typically sold as types C or F.

Plug sockets in Iceland use 230 V, rather than the 110 V that is used in the US. Before you plug in a device, make sure it’s rated for 230 V. Many plug adapters do not convert the voltage, so check before using one for the first time.

3. What’s it like traveling to Iceland from the US?

When traveling to Iceland, you’ll discover a world quite different from your own. 

With its vast landscapes and sparse population, Iceland remains home to some of Europe’s last wildernesses. But you’ll notice that the distances are smaller than you’re used to. In fact, in Iceland, you’ll find some of the world’s most breathtaking sights in a country smaller than most US states.

Something to know is that Iceland is incredibly safe . Low population density and good education mean that crime rates are really low. That said, it can still be smart to sign up to the US Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to be alerted to any emergencies.

How big is Iceland compared to the US?

Iceland is much smaller than the US, both by surface area and population. 

For example, Iceland’s surface area is about 39,600 sq mi (103,000 sq km). Meanwhile, the area of the USA adds up to roughly 3.8 million sq mi (9.8 million sq km). 

So, you can think of the USA as being just under 100 times bigger than Iceland. To put that in perspective, Iceland is roughly the same size as Kentucky or Indiana.

Meanwhile, Iceland’s population is 372,000 and the population of the US is about 333 million. That means there’s roughly 1,000 Americans for every Icelander. In fact, there are nearly twice as many people just in Wyoming as there are in Iceland. 

• Related: How long does it take to drive around Iceland?

How expensive is Iceland compared to the US?

Iceland has a bit of a reputation as an expensive destination. One estimate suggests that Iceland is the world’s fourth most expensive country, while the USA ranks at 26.

Don’t let this put you off, though. There are many ways to enjoy the country on a budget. For example, why not visit Iceland in spring ? In this season, prices tend to be a little lower.

One way to lower travel costs is to book a vacation package . When you book with Iceland Tours, you get great value for money. All of our packages include accommodation, local transport, a 24/7 helpline, and more.

Many of our packages also include breakfast and activities. So you won’t need to worry about saving up as much money to spend when you’re in Iceland.

• Related: Is Iceland expensive? Your budgeting guide

What’s the weather like in Iceland?

As its name suggests, Iceland can get a little cold. But more than anything else, Icelandic weather is really changeable. Expect to experience every season in a single day, even in summer.

In that warmest season, temperatures can hit about 68°F (20°C). That said, if there’s a breeze it might feel a little cooler than that. Meanwhile, winter temperatures don’t often go below 28°F (-2°C), in Reykjavík and the capital area, at least.

May and June are the driest months, but you should always expect to see at least a little bit of rain while you’re here. Whenever you’re coming to Iceland, pack for all weather. Warm layers, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy shoes are a must.

4. The best time to visit Iceland and where to go

Now you know a bit about what Iceland’s like, it’s time to start planning your trip. Read on to discover when to visit and some of the travel destinations you cannot miss.

When is the best time to go to Iceland?

The best time for you to visit Iceland will depend on what you want to get up to while you’re here. Every season has something incredible to offer.

For example, winter’s the season of the Northern Lights . Thanks to Iceland’s dark nights, it is the world’s best place to see the Aurora Borealis. Meanwhile, winter offers ice caves to discover, glaciers to explore, and spas to unwind in. And let’s not forget Icelandic Christmas , when Reykjavík’s at its prettiest.

Meanwhile, summer in Iceland is an incredible time to get outdoors. Go camping , hike the country’s networks of trails, or take a whale watching tour to see majestic wildlife.

Spring is typically known as the shoulder season. But it’s the moment when wildflowers bloom and there are fewer visitors around. 

• Related: When to visit Iceland: The best times to go

Where are the best places to visit?

For such a small country, Iceland has so many breathtaking places to visit:

• Reykjavík – This is Iceland’s buzzing capital city. Discover captivating museums , thriving nightlife, and unforgettable cultural experiences.
• Golden Circle – Combining the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Þingvellir National Park, with Gullfoss Waterfall and Geysir, it’s Iceland’s best-known itinerary.
• Snæfellsnes peninsula – It’s known as ‘Iceland in Miniature’ thanks to its staggering variety of landforms, including iconic mountains and rugged coasts.
• Blue Lagoon – Unwind in a world-famous spa with soothing blue waters.
• Vatnajökull National Park – The home of Europe’s second-largest glacier.

There’s much more to see. Discover what else you can get up to in our complete guide to Iceland .

• Related: 13 Best places to visit in Iceland .

Discover Iceland with Iceland Tours

Travel to Iceland from the US and discover volcanic landscapes, black-sand beaches, glaciers, and the magical Northern Lights. Whenever you visit, and whatever your travel plans, Iceland is a destination you won’t forget. 

At Iceland Tours, we can help you organize the perfect trip. If you like exploring alone, take a self-drive tour of Iceland . Or, if you want to meet like-minded travelers to enjoy your experience with, join a group tour .

Book a trip with us and we’ll take care of your travel within Iceland, accommodation, and any activities. What’s more, you can customize everything for your dream holiday. All you need is a 5% deposit to secure your booking.

• Best time ,
• Travel advice

About the author

Max has been back and forth from Iceland since 2009. He lived and worked there for several years, and although he’s moved away, he left a piece of his heart there. When he’s in Iceland, he loves to relax in the ‘hot pot’, chow down on some local food, and catch up with friends. He speaks Icelandic fluently, so if you need to know how to pronounce ‘Fagradalsfjall’, he’s your guy.

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