Iceland

Travel tips for Iceland: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards work almost everywhere. Travelers confirm Iceland is virtually cashless, with cards and Apple Pay accepted everywhere from hot dog carts to remote public toilets, though you should know your card's PIN for automated gas stations.

Try the food

  • Icelandic Hot Dog (Pylsa): A lamb-based hot dog traditionally topped with raw and crispy fried onions, ketchup, sweet brown mustard, and a creamy remoulade.
  • Fermented Shark (Hákarl): Cured and dried Greenland shark meat known for its pungent ammonia aroma and strong, acquired fishy taste.
  • Skyr: A thick, creamy, and high-protein cultured dairy product that resembles strained yogurt but is technically a soft cheese.
  • Icelandic Meat Soup (Kjötsúpa): A hearty, warming broth loaded with tender chunks of lamb, potatoes, rutabaga, and carrots.

Say it in Icelandic

  • Hello: Halló
  • Thank you: Takk
  • Please: Vinsamlegast
  • Excuse me: Afsakið
  • How much is this?: Hvað kostar þetta?
  • The bill please: Reikninginn, takk
  • Yes / No: Já / Nei
  • Goodbye: Bless

Essentials

Plugs
Type C / Type F
Voltage
230V, 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Tap water
Safe to drink
Emergency
112 (all services)
SIM tip
Pick up a prepaid Síminn or Nova SIM card at the 10-11 convenience store in Keflavík Airport arrivals, or install an eSIM like Airalo before you land for instant data.

Etiquette

Tipping is not expected as service is included in all bills, but it is strictly mandatory to shower thoroughly without a swimsuit before entering any public geothermal pool.

Airports in Iceland