Do you have questions about your trip with Iceland ProTravel, about travel planning, or Iceland in general? Our collection of frequently asked questions can already help you.
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Arrival
Entry
Things to know about Iceland
All around travel planning
What does a trip to Iceland cost
When is the best time to visit
Communication
Driving
On the Road in Iceland
Northern lights
Board
Cancellation and Rebooking
Arrival
Can I do an online check-in?
Yes, we recommend you to do an online check-in to start yout vacation relaxed.
Is it possible to check-in my luggage the evening before?
No, unfortunately this is not possible with Icelandair.
What types of transport do I use to get to Iceland?
You can fly to Iceland (direct flights from many different American airports) or take the Smyril Line ferry from Hirtshals in Denmark to Seydisfjordur (the crossing goes via the Faroe Islands and takes about 2.5 days).
Can I travel with my own vehicle?
No, there is only one ferry connection with Smyril Line from Hirtshals (Denmark) via Torshavn (Faroe Islands) and brings you to the destination port Seydisfjordur in the east of Iceland. The ferry crossing is about 65 hours (travel time may vary depending on the schedule).
How long is the flight time to Iceland?
The flight time depends on the departure Airport. For a direct flight the average flight time is about 5-9 hours.
Entry
Do I need a passport for Iceland?
Yes, American citizens need a passport to enter Iceland. It should be valid for at least three months beyond your intended date of departure from the Schengen area. In addition, also check the linked page to see which nationalities require a visa to enter Iceland.
What are Icelands current entry requirements with the Corona-Virus?
Currently, there are no more restrictions for entry to Iceland/Greenland and the return journey to the United States. Current info at www.covid.is. It is the responsibility of the travelers to fulfill the entry regulations/vaccination requirements of the countries at the time of travel (e.g. if required: Corona vaccination).
Can I take pets to Iceland?
Iceland has a mandatory two-week quarantine period, so bringing a pet is rather problematic. We, therefore, advise against taking a pet with you.
Things to know about Iceland
What is Iceland known for (Glaciers, volcanoes, geysirs, northern light)
Iceland is known for its beautiful, contrasting nature. Not only volcanoes, glaciers, and geysers are waiting for the visitors, but also natural hot springs, northern lights, puffins, and much more.
What is forbidden in Iceland?
Like any country, Iceland has regulations and prohibitions that must be followed. Among these prohibitions are the following:
- Driving off-road (leaving official roads and trails) '
- Driving a car without a four-wheel drive on the so-called F-roads, especially in the highlands (Read more about driving in Iceland)
- Walking on Icelandic moss or damaging it in any way. It takes years for it to recover from this!
- Wild camping (camping outside campsites), carries heavy fines
- Disturbing birds, sheep (who like to roam), and other animals
- Disregarding barriers at nature sites
What geothermal baths are there?
Iceland offers its visitors a variety of geothermal swimming pools. Among the most famous are probably the Blue Lagoon or the Myvatn Nature Bath. But besides the well-known springs, there are also many small baths and largely natural hot springs. These include the Hvammsvik Hot Springs in the west of the country, the GeoSea Geothermal Bath in northern Iceland, the Secret Lagoon near the Gullfoss waterfall, and the Laugarvatn Fontana near Reykjavik. More about geothermal baths in Iceland
What glaciers are there?
It is impossible to determine the exact number of glaciers in Iceland, but there are at least 13 large glaciers in Iceland, covering 11% of the total land area. These glaciers include, in order of size, Vatnajokull, Langjokull, Hofsjokull, Myrdalsjokull, Deangajokull, Eyjafjallajokull, Tungnafellsjokull, Thorisjokull, Eiriksjokull, Thrandarijokull, Tindfjallajokull, Torfajokull, and Snaefellsjokull. More about glaciers in Iceland
When and where can I watch puffins?
Puffins can be seen in Iceland during the summer months from mid/late April until late August. The best time of day to see puffins is early morning and late afternoon. In the south, the birds can be seen at the cliffs near Cape Dyrhólaey and the Westman Islands, among other places. In the east, they can be seen at the harbor Borgarfjardarhofn near Bakkagerdi and in the north around the town Husavik. In the Westjords you also have various opportunities to see the cute animals: for example at the largest bird cliff on the island, Latrabjarg or Breidafjordur.
Where can I watch whales?
In Iceland, you have the opportunity to participate in whale watching in some localities. The most famous are in Reykjavik (the capital) and in the north near Husavik. However, there are also whale-watching tours in Olafsvik (Snaefellsnes peninsula), Hauganes (north), and Akureyri (north). The sighting rate is about 91 percent.
Daylight in summer and winter?
During summer the nights are bright in all of Iceland. In the month of June the sun never fully sets. November to February are the darkest months in Iceland with about 7 hours of daylight in November and February and only 3-4 hours in December and January.
Are there wild animals or any dangerous species in Iceland?
There are no poisonous or dangerous animals in Iceland.
When are the supermarkets and shops open?
Mo.-Fr. 9 AM - 6 PM, Sat. 10 AM - 4 PM. Most shops are closed on sundays and in summer even on saturedays.
Are there public toilets in Iceland?
There are usually toilets at the main sights, although not always with running water. You will also often find toilets at petrol stations on the ring road and at campsites and some rest areas.
All around travel planning
In how many days can I circumnavigate Iceland?
You can easily circumnavigate Iceland on the Ring Road without the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and the Westfjords in 8 days. We recommend planning better 10 days with arrival and departure. To explore Iceland completely, you should allow at least 20 days. The driving distance is about 1,118 miles, so that you drive on average about 136-186 miles per day in the 8-day variant. On some days, however, you could also cover more or fewer miles, as it also depends on where your next accommodation is located or, for example, how you arrange your daily schedule.
Can Iceland be traveled all year round?
Iceland is possible to travel all year round, depending on the travel option. The summer months are good for exploring the highlands or driving once around Iceland. In the winter months the highlands are closed and there is little daylight, but you have the possibility, if the weather cooperates, to see the northern lights if you are lucky.
What is the time difference?
Iceland observes UTC +/- 00:00 all year and therefor is part of the Greenwich Mean Time Zone (GMT). The clocks are not changed to summer and winter time.
What is the weather like in Iceland?
Despite the climate influence of the warm Gulf Stream, you should be prepared for any weather. In summer, temperatures average 53-59° F, but can also rise to 68° F. You should always expect small rain showers, but they are usually short-lived. Winter temperatures average +/- 41° F. Although it can sometimes be very windy, it is not as cold as is often assumed. However, warm clothes are still the order of the day. We recommend that you take a hat, gloves, and a scarf with you throughout the year.
How much money should I bring to Iceland?
Since the exchange rate in Icelandic banks is much more profitable, it is recommended to change money directly in Iceland. We recommend changing money directly at the airport, as many banks no longer offer this service. Foreign currency can be imported and exported in unlimited amounts. On the presentation of a Visa or Mastercard credit card, banks also pay out cash in the local currency. However, it should be said that in Iceland almost everything is paid for without cash, and therefore exchanging money is not necessary.
Do I need a credit card?
Yes. It is unusual to pay with cash in Iceland. Usually everything is paid for with a credit card, even public toilets usually have a card reader.
Do I need a travel plug or adapter for Iceland?
Yes, you need an adapter for Iceland. Iceland uses the standard Europlug socket with two round prongs which can be used with the adapter types “C” and “F”.
What language is spoken in Iceland?
Icelandic, but many Icelanders can also speak English and Danish.
Is Iceland a safe country?
The crime rate in Iceland is very low, but petty crime such as pickpocketing does occur. Please take care of your valuables and do not leave anything in the car.
What is the national currency?
The means of payment in Iceland is the Icelandic krona (króna), ISK. Master cards and Visa credit cards are also widely used (4-digit PIN required!). In larger towns and airports you can easily withdraw cash from ATMs with the Maestro card. The current exchange rate can be found at www.landsbankinn.com.
Is there an acommodation tax in Iceland?
Yes, due to changed laws in Iceland, an accommodation tax will be applied from January 2024. There is a tax of 666 ISK ($ 4.80) per night and room. The price is independent of the number of persons. The tax is indicated in the offer when booking.
How much do you tip in Iceland?
You do not have to pay a tip in Iceland, nor is it customary here. However, if you would like to tip, there is a tip jar in most restaurants.
When are the highlands open?
There are no fixed opening hours for the highlands. Typically, the roads are opened to traffic in June or July and close again in August or September.
What does a trip to Iceland cost?
Quick overview
An Iceland trip with Iceland ProTravel is based on 2 people sharing a double room and costs on average:
Summer:
→ approx. ,500–3,800 per person for 1 week
→ approx. ,500–5,500 per person for 2 weeks
Winter:
→ approx. $ 1,800–2,700 per person for 1 week
→ approx. ,200–3,900 per person for 2 weeks
The total cost of an Iceland vacation depends heavily on the season, trip duration, accommodation type and travel style (guided group tour or self-drive tour).
For solo travelers, additional single-room costs usually apply. For an Iceland trip with Iceland ProTravel, travelers should expect approximately $100 single supplement per night.
Price factors of an Iceland trip
Flights
Flights to Iceland are either included in the travel package or booked separately, depending on the tour. Prices vary significantly depending on the season, with flights during the summer months generally being more expensive than during the off-season. Since flight availability is limited, booking early is highly recommended.
Accommodation
Accommodation varies depending on the tour and may include hotels, guesthouses or holiday homes. Breakfast is included on many tours, while selected guided tours also include additional meals. Since Iceland is generally considered a high-priced travel destination, accommodation makes up a significant part of the total trip cost. Many holiday homes also include kitchen facilities, making self-catering possible.
Rental car
For individual self-drive tours, the rental car is usually already included in the travel package, together with the most important insurance coverage. A credit card is required upon vehicle pick-up for the security deposit. Additional costs may arise for fuel or optional insurance upgrades.
Price examples for an Iceland trip
The cost of an Iceland trip mainly depends on the season, travel duration and chosen type of travel. While summer trips are usually more expensive due to peak season, travelers often benefit from lower prices during winter.
Guided group tours
Travelers who would like to discover Iceland on an escorted bus tour with an English-speaking guide should expect the following approximate prices depending on the season:
Summer:
→ 1 week Iceland group tour: from approx. $ 2,700–3,800 per person
→ 2 week Iceland group tour: from approx. $ 4,500–6,500 per person
Winter:
→ 1 week Iceland group tour: from approx. $ 1,800–2,700 per person
→ 2 week Iceland group tour: from approx. $ 3,200–4,900 per person
Depending on the tour, prices may already include flights, accommodation, transfers, guided tours, excursions and entrance fees.
Self-drive tours
An individual self-drive tour is ideal for travelers who want to explore Iceland flexibly and at their own pace.
Summer:
→ 1 week self-drive tour: from approx. $ 2,200–2,800 per person
→ 2 week self-drive tour: from approx. $ 3,900–6,000 per person
Winter:
→ 1 week self-drive tour: from approx. $ 1,700–2,300 per person
→ 2 week self-drive tour: from approx. $ 3,500–5,500 per person
The travel price generally includes the rental car, accommodations and, depending on the tour, selected excursions.
Tips for saving money on Iceland trips
Travelers who would like to save money on their Iceland trip should book as early as possible and ideally start planning their trip 6 to 12 months in advance. This often allows access to lower airfares, early booking discounts and a wider selection of accommodations. Additional savings are possible by traveling during the off-season, choosing simple guesthouses or holiday homes and making use of self-catering options. The choice of travel style can also significantly affect the total trip cost.
When is the best time to visit Iceland?
When is the best time to visit Iceland?
The best time to visit Iceland depends on your destination. The months of June through August are ideal for road trips and hiking, with long days and favorable conditions. For the Northern Lights, the period from September through March is ideal.
When is the weather in Iceland most pleasant?
The most pleasant weather is during the summer months from June to August, with temperatures ranging from 50 to 59 °F. However, the climate remains changeable throughout the year.
When can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland?
The Northern Lights are visible in Iceland from September through March, on dark nights with clear skies, preferably outside of cities.
How do summer and winter in Iceland compare?
Summer (June through August) is ideal for sightseeing tours and outdoor activities, with long days and mild weather.
Winter (November through March) is darker and cooler, but offers the best chances of seeing the Northern Lights and a more peaceful atmosphere.
Which travel season is best for which type of traveler?
The period from June to September is particularly well-suited for a road trip, as good road conditions and long days provide ideal conditions for touring. The highlands of Iceland are accessible only from mid-June to September, depending on weather conditions. Road trips along the Ring Road are also possible in winter. We have adjusted the route planning to account for daylight conditions.
Group and guided tours are available year-round. In summer, even remote regions, such as the highlands, can be explored by off-road bus; in winter, group tours are particularly attractive for the Northern Lights and for a safe travel experience.
Short trips and city breaks around Reykjavík are easily possible year-round and ideal for short stays or getting a first impression.
A wellness vacation in Iceland is also recommended year-round, as thermal baths can be enjoyed regardless of the season—especially in winter, when they create a striking contrast to the landscape.
Horseback riding vacations in Iceland are generally possible year-round. The period from June to August is particularly ideal, as stable conditions and especially beautiful natural scenery make for excellent rides. In the fall, the otherwise green landscape takes on warm hues: gold, rust-red, and brown dominate. The first Northern Lights appear as early as September. Winter horseback riding tours through snow-covered landscapes are also possible.
Weather Overview in Iceland
January (average 32 °F) Recommendation: Northern Lights photography
February (average 33,8 °F) Recommendation: Active winter tours, e.g., glacier tours
March (average 33,8 °F) Recommendation: Additional snow and ice activities
April (average 35,6 °F) Recommendation: Nature tours, e.g., the Golden Circle
May (average 37,4 °F) Recommendation: Round trip on the Ring Road
June (average 44,6 °F) Recommendation: Hiking trips with puffin sightings
July (average 50 °F) Recommendation: Trips to the highlands
August (average 50 °F) Recommendation: Whale watching
September (average 46,4 °F) Recommendation: Rental car tours through autumn landscapes
October (average 37,4 °F) Recommendation: Tours heading south
November (average 33,8 °F) Recommendation: Ice cave season
December (average 30,2 °F) Recommendation: New Year’s Eve trips
Communication
How is the mobile phone reception in Iceland?
Common cell phones can be used in Iceland. Except for the highlands or in particularly remote areas, the reception network is relatively good.
Driving
What are the road conditions?
Approximately 2672 miles of the road network is paved, including the Ring Road (Route No. 1). Nevertheless, driving on Icelandic roads is adventurous and on some roads very exhausting. Thus, only cautious and experienced people should drive into the highlands. Stony deserts, lava areas drifting sand deserts, and huge glacial rivers can cause additional difficulties. Road conditions and closed roads can be seen at www.road.is. Storm warnings appear at www.vedur.is and www.safetravel.is. The warnings are to be taken seriously especially because of sand and ash storms.
Can you drive a car in Iceland?
Yes, for Iceland you only need a national driver's license. Before traveling, we recommend that you obtain information on driving and travel warnings in Iceland via the website www.safetravel.is. During the trip, you should pay attention to current weather information (www.vedur.is) and road conditions (www.road.is or tel. +345 1777).
How old do I have to be to rent a car?
The minimum age to rent a car is 20 years (or 19 years with additional fee, cat. Z-D) with min. 1 year of driving experience.
Do I need an international drivers's licence to drive in Iceland?
No, you can drive a car in Iceland with your American driver's license.
Can I pick up the rental car at any time of the day?
Yes, that is possible. Our partner Europcar works seven days a week at any time of day, but there are fewer employees on-site at night. Especially in the low season, it may happen that for a short time, there is no employee at the Europcar counter because the employees rotate between the pick-up and drop-off stations. Should the case occur, you can reach the staff with a phone located on-site. In the high season, there are employees at both the pick-up and drop-off stations.
What car do I need for the highlands?
You need an off-road vehicle with 4x4 (all-wheel drive) to drive in the highlands.
Parking in Iceland
Parking is still free here and there, but at more and more attractions and in larger towns such as Reykjavik and Akureyri you have to pay via the parking app, at the parking meter or in the parking garage. In summer, you have to reserve a parking space in advance at some attractions, such as Landmannalaugar.
On the road in Iceland
How do I get to the hotel by bus transfer?
If your trip includes a bus transfer, this will (if not mentioned otherwise) be done with our partner from Reykjavik Excursions/ Flybus. Upon presentation of the document "Your travel documents" you will receive your transfer ticket with the Flybus at the counter of Reykjavik Excursions / Flybus. After receiving the ticket, you will board the Flybus, which will be waiting directly in front of the arrivals hall. On the bus, a Flybus employee will ask you for your accommodation, so you will receive color cards, these are used to help you find the right bus at the central bus station BSI in Reykjavik even without much knowledge of English, which will take you to your accommodation or your BUS STOP. The last meters to your accommodation may have to be done on foot. (You will find more information in your travel documents).
How can I travel around Iceland locally?
How do I You can travel to Iceland both as a self-driver with your car or using a rental car/camper. Of course, non-drivers are also catered for, they can book a city trip with excursions. For that little bit extra, we also offer exclusive tours with a private guide, should you want to experience your vacation individually and yet be guided. Please feel free to contact us.get from the hotel to the airport on the day of departure?
How do I get from the hotel to the airport on the day of departure?
If your trip includes airport transfers, please refer to the "Your travel documents" document for the times of the booked transfer with Flybus. Be sure to be in front of your accommodation (or at the nearby bus stop) with your luggage and the "Your travel documents" document or your Flybus ticket on time at the first mentioned time. After being picked up by smaller buses, you will change from the central bus station BSI in Reykjavik to a large bus that will take you to Keflavik Airport. If you already have a Flybus ticket, you can go directly to the big bus with it. Otherwise, go to the counter at the bus station with the document "Your travel documents", where you will receive your Flybus ticket. No luggage service is provided when transferring.
Northern lights
When is the best time to see the Northern lights in Iceland?
The best time to see the Northern Lights is between September and March, when nights return after the summer. In starry skies, far from disturbing light sources, the colorful, dancing lights in the sky are best observed! Current forecasts are available at vedur.is. More about the Northern Lights in Iceland
Board
How expensive is living in Iceland, as well as fuel costs?
The cost of living in Iceland is about 40% higher than in the United States. The food prices vary depending on the supermarket. In a cheap discounter (e.g. Bónus or Nettó) the costs are comparable to Rewe or similar markets. The 24h open supermarkets are about 50% more expensive than the discounters. A liter of gasoline costs about $ 1,66,-. Status: April 2026
Can you drink the water from the tap in Iceland?
Icelandic tap water is drinkable and is even among the cleanest tap water in the world.
What about allergies (food/animals) and special diets?
Please inform us about food intolerances/allergies and/ or special diet when booking.
How easy is it for vegetarians/vegans to eat in Iceland?
There is a wide range of restaurants and cafes in Reykjavik that offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives. In the rest of the country, most restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan food, but it is often pasta with tomato sauce or salad.
What do I have to pay attention to with my riding clothes?
Already used riding clothes and riding boots must be washed at 104 °F or dry cleaned before entering Iceland. Other, non-washable items, must be disinfected according to the instructions of the Disease Control Authority. In addition, it is strictly forbidden to bring the following used riding equipment: Saddle, bridles, nosebands, pads, blankets, riding whips as well as used riding gloves.
How easy is it for vegetarians/vegans to eat in Iceland?
There is a wide range of restaurants and cafes in Reykjavik that offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives. In the rest of the country, most restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan food, but it is often pasta with tomato sauce or salad.
Where can I buy alcohol?
In Iceland, you can only buy alcohol in special shops run by the government or in restaurants and pubs that have a special licence. Supermarkets only sell light beer. The minimum age to buy alcohol is 20 years.
Cancellation and Rebooking
I have to cancel my trip. What do I have to consider?
In principle, a cancellation must always be received by us in writing by e-mail or by mail, a phone call is not sufficient. Please refer to the GTC for the applicable cancellation fees.
What if a person cancels and we want to take a replacement?
Should the case arise that the person traveling with you cannot travel, you can take a substitute person if necessary. For this name change, there is a fee, possibly there may be additional costs for the flight. Should the case of a partial cancellation occur, please contact us!
What do I have to do to change my trip?
If you have to rebook your trip, it is generally advisable to inform Iceland ProTravel as early as possible in order to keep additional costs for you as low as possible. If accommodations or certain flight classes are no longer available on the new travel date, surcharges may apply, which are to be borne by the customer. In addition, airlines in particular charge a rebooking fee, which must be paid by the customer in any case.
What happens if my trip is cancelled?
If your excursion is cancelled due to weather conditions, for example, our agency will normally receive a cancellation notice from our partner. In this case we or our Icelandic office will try to contact you and help you with a rebooking or refund. In case of cancelled excursions, please contact your contract partner directly for a refund.
What happens in the event of route changes due to weather?
If accommodations cannot be reached due to weather conditions, please contact our service number, which can be found on the travel documents. There they will take care of an adjustment of the route.