Languages:
Icelandic. English and Danish will be understood almost everywhere.
Currency:
Icelandic Krona (ISK). Debit cards and credit cards are accepted everywhere. Traveling without ISK currency is easily possible, though it is good to have some.
Capital: Reykjavik
Largest City: Reykjavik
Population: 364 thousand
Best Known For:
Rugged countryside full of glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls. Northern lights, skyr, Eyjafjallajökull.
Weather:
Subarctic climate. Generally cool, wet, and windy, though warmer on the south coast and coldest in the central highlands.
Favorite Eats:
Iceland’s most popular export is skyr. Many hearty meals made of fish, lamb, and wild game. Don’t forget about the classic Reykjavik hot dog.
More About Iceland
The Land of Ice and Fire. Iceland has captivated tourists over the past decade, after previously being relatively obscure. Travel to Iceland is undoubtedly for the spectacular natural scenery, which truly is unparalleled. For a relatively small island, there is a huge array of volcanic mountains, beaches, sharp cliffs, glacial lagoons, pounding waterfalls, and rugged terrain. No matter where in Iceland you go, you will be left awestruck.
The Golden Circle is a typical tourist trail near the capital and largest city, Reykjavik, including Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. This is a great taste of Iceland, however the real beauty of the country is going on a road trip around the Ring Road, which encompasses the entire country.
The capital and largest city of Reykjavik is compact by most standards, but includes everything you need, including great hotels, fine dining, and shopping. To truly sample and understand Icelandic cuisine, try a tasting menu at one of the cities best restaurants, which will be sure to include Icelandic specialties unique to the island. If you’re looking for a quick bite, the Reykjavik hot dog is one of the best in the world, and worth a try. Also be sure to pick up some typical Icelandic sweaters to keep warm during your trip.
Iceland is a truly incredible country. The geography and landscape is unparalleled and the remoteness of the island will allow you to leave all your worries of the world behind.