Iceland Travel Guide: Essential Travel Tips Before You Go
Icelandair Stopover Program
The Icelandair Stopover Program allows travelers flying between North America and Europe to add a stop in Iceland for up to seven days at no additional airfare. Instead of simply connecting through Reykjavík, you can explore Iceland's dramatic landscapes, geothermal hot springs, waterfalls, volcanoes, and vibrant capital before continuing to your final destination. It's an excellent way to experience two countries in one trip, making Iceland an easy and affordable addition to any European vacation.
You are on your way to Europe anyways. Add Iceland to your Journey and see the amazing land of Fire and Ice.
Weather Tips for Traveling to Iceland
-
Dress in layers. Temperatures can change quickly, even during summer, so pack moisture-wicking clothing, warm mid-layers, and a waterproof outer shell.
-
Bring a waterproof jacket and pants. Rain and mist are common year-round, especially near waterfalls and along the coast.
-
Don't underestimate the wind. Strong winds are frequent and can make temperatures feel much colder than the forecast.
-
Wear sturdy waterproof hiking boots. Many of Iceland's top attractions involve walking on uneven, rocky, or wet terrain.
-
Pack warm accessories. A hat, gloves, and scarf are useful in every season, particularly for glacier tours, boat trips, and Northern Lights excursions.
-
Summer temperatures are mild. From June through August, daytime highs typically range from 50–60°F (10–15°C), making light layers ideal.
-
Winter brings snow and icy conditions. Between November and March, expect shorter daylight hours, snow-covered landscapes, and temperatures often between 20–35°F (-7–2°C).
-
Check road and weather conditions daily. Weather can affect driving conditions, especially in winter and the Highlands, so always review local forecasts before setting out.
-
Protect your electronics. Waterproof bags or phone cases are helpful around waterfalls, geothermal areas, and during rainy weather.
-
Be flexible with your itinerary. Iceland's weather can occasionally delay tours or temporarily close roads, so allowing extra time in your schedule is a good idea.
I took advantage of Iceland's Stopover Program when I was on my way to Rome and the Christmas Market's in Germany. I stayed three nights total and it was a good taste of Iceland. In this section-I will tell you all you need to know about Iceland, it's regions and why SELF DRIVE ROAD TRIP is the most spectacular way you should see this country.
For context- I went to Iceland taking advantage of the Icelandair Stopover Program during late November. Because of this-I chose for guided Coach tours instead because I was spending only 3 days, I was traveling alone at that leg of my trip and I did not want to deal with driving in the snow and risk losing precious time exploring the Glaciers and South Coast..
Currency Information
-
The official currency of Iceland is the Icelandic krona (ISK)
-
Iceland is a largely cashless society, with credit cards and debit cards being accepted almost everywhere.
-
Because the ISK is only traded internally, it is difficult to exchange outside of Iceland, so it is best to spend your cash before leaving or keep small amounts as a souvenir.
Budgeting for Iceland
A stopover in Iceland can fit a wide range of budgets with a little planning. Since Icelandair's Stopover Program allows you to stay for up to seven days without additional airfare, your main expenses are accommodations, meals, transportation, and activities. Renting a car is the best option for exploring beyond Reykjavík, while budget-conscious travelers can save by using public buses, choosing guesthouses, and dining at local bakeries or grocery stores. Many of Iceland's most spectacular attractions—including waterfalls, black sand beaches, volcanic landscapes, and scenic hiking trails—are free to visit, making it easy to enjoy an unforgettable Icelandic adventure without overspending.
Must Try Food & Drink
-
🐟 Fresh Arctic Char – A delicately flavored freshwater fish, often grilled or smoked.
-
🐑 Icelandic Lamb – Free-range lamb known for its tender texture and rich flavor, served roasted, grilled, or in stews.
-
🍲 Kjötsúpa (Lamb Soup) – A traditional hearty soup made with lamb, root vegetables, and herbs.
-
🌭 Icelandic Hot Dog (Pylsur) – Iceland's famous hot dog, made primarily from Icelandic lamb and topped with crispy onions, raw onions, sweet mustard, ketchup, and remoulade.
-
🦞 Langoustine – Sweet, tender lobster served grilled, pan-seared, or in creamy soups, especially along Iceland's southern coast.
-
🐟 Plokkfiskur – A comforting dish of mashed potatoes, fresh fish, onions, and a creamy white sauce.
-
🍞 Rúgbrauð – Traditional dense rye bread, often baked using geothermal heat and served with butter or smoked fish.
-
🧀 Skyr – Iceland's famous cultured dairy product, similar to Greek yogurt, enjoyed with berries, honey, or granola.
-
🧈 Smoked Salmon – Premium Atlantic salmon, often served on rye bread or with fresh herbs.
-
🦀 Fresh Seafood – Iceland's cold North Atlantic waters produce exceptional cod, haddock, halibut, scallops, mussels, and shrimp.
-
🍰 Kleinur – A lightly sweet, twisted Icelandic pastry enjoyed with coffee.
-
🍦 Icelandic Ice Cream – Surprisingly popular year-round, even during the winter months.
-
🍫 Licorice Treats – Icelanders love combining salty licorice with chocolate, making it a unique local specialty.
-
🍺 Icelandic Craft Beer – Sample locally brewed beers inspired by Iceland's pure glacial water.
-
🥃 Brennivín – Iceland's signature schnapps, nicknamed the "Black Death," traditionally enjoyed with local cuisine.
I chose to visit the Sky Lagoon upon my landing in Iceland for several reasons:
1. LESS TOURISTY-I was solo-tripping and wanted something more quiet I could sink into and ground myself.
2. NO KIDS-need I say more
3. The Skjól Ritual - I wanted to immerse myself in a one of a kind cultural yet relaxing experience my first day to help recover from my inevitable jet lag.
This choice is up to you-but Sky Lagoon is a great option for couples, solo travelers and for people like me who usually like to spend the first day easing into a new country.
Epic Scenery and Landscapes in Iceland
Iceland is a dream destination for adventure seekers, offering some of the world's most extraordinary outdoor experiences. From hiking glaciers, exploring ice caves, and climbing volcanoes to snowmobiling, whale watching, snorkeling between two continents, and chasing the Northern Lights, every season brings a new adventure. With its dramatic landscapes, rugged wilderness, and endless opportunities for exploration, Iceland is the perfect playground for travelers who love the outdoors.
Planning your Stop Over Road Trip
Step 1: Let's have a chat about how long and what you want to experience. There are many factors to consider including time of year, activity levels of your group, types of excursions and how many days you have on your stop over. Let's Start Planning!
2. Car rental-Let me take care of this for you. Road tripping through Iceland takes more planning than you might consider. Type of vehicle you will need based based on terrain and insurance limitations can also be a factor. As well as the size of the car to fit everyone including your luggage comfortably.
3. Decide whether or not to do the Blue Lagoon on your first or last day of your trip. This is important as it's close to the airport and easier to visit when it's at the beginning or end of your visit. More info about the Blue Lagoon can be found here
4. Use my Curated Tours options while on your Journey. Keep in mind that during the peak summer months-some tours will need to be booked ahead. Otherwise-use this as an on the fly option as road tripping allows you to act completely independent and stop at places that catch your fancy.
5. Let me help you find appropriate accommodations along your route. Let's work together to find unique places that might be off the beaten path that will create a more localized experience for you.
6. Once all planning is complete, I will create a full PDF printable guide you can take on your journey in case wireless connection is spotty in more remote areas.
Top Outdoor Activities in Iceland
-
🌋 Explore glaciers on guided glacier hikes and ice-climbing adventures. I chose to go snowmobiling during my time there in November 2026
-
❄️ Walk inside natural ice caves during the winter months for an unforgettable Arctic experience.
-
🌌 Watch the Northern Lights from September through April beneath Iceland's dark skies.
-
🐋 Go whale watching to spot humpback whales, minke whales, orcas, and dolphins along the coast.
-
🥾 Hike Iceland's spectacular landscapes, including volcanoes, lava fields, waterfalls, and colorful mountains.
-
♨️ Soak in geothermal hot springs, from natural pools to world-famous geothermal spas.
-
🚙 Drive the Ring Road or the Golden Circle to discover waterfalls, black sand beaches, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes.
-
🐴 Ride the famous Icelandic horse across lava fields, valleys, and scenic countryside.
-
🚤 Take a Zodiac or boat tour among floating icebergs in glacier lagoons.
-
🚣 Kayak through glacier lagoons or coastal fjords, surrounded by icebergs and dramatic scenery.
-
🌊 Visit Iceland's famous waterfalls, including Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Dettifoss.
-
🏖️ Walk along black sand beaches, including the iconic Reynisfjara Beach near Vík.
-
🤿 Snorkel or dive between two continents in the crystal-clear waters of the Silfra Fissure.
-
🚵 Mountain bike through volcanic landscapes, lava fields, and scenic highland trails.
-
🦜 Observe puffins and seabirds along dramatic coastal cliffs during the summer nesting season.
-
🚜 Explore Iceland's rugged Highlands on a guided Super Jeep adventure.
-
🏕️ Camp beneath the Midnight Sun during the summer months and experience nearly 24 hours of daylight.
-
🎣 Fish Iceland's pristine rivers and lakes, renowned for Atlantic salmon and Arctic char.
-
🧗 Discover lava caves and volcanic tunnels formed by ancient eruptions.
-
📸 Photograph Iceland's incredible natural scenery, from glaciers and waterfalls to volcanoes, fjords, and geothermal landscapes.
