Iceland Information

Where Is Iceland? Geography & Volcanoes

Iceland sits between North America and Europe, straddling the Mid-Atlantic Ridge just below the Arctic Circle. The island’s landscape is defined by glaciers, black-sand deserts, geysers, and active volcanoes — a reminder of the powerful geothermal forces shaping the country. With an area of around 103,000 km² and a population of about 389,000 people, Iceland remains one of Europe’s least densely populated nations.

→ Discover where Iceland is on a map, and how to visit volcanos in Iceland.

Arriving in Iceland: Flights & Keflavík Airport

Most international visitors arrive via Keflavík International Airport (KEF), located about 48 km southwest of Reykjavík. The airport serves as Iceland’s main gateway and connects directly to the island’s major road networks. From here, travelers can reach the capital, the South Coast, or the Golden Circle in just a few hours by car.

→ See our Keflavík Airport Car Rental Guide for directions, pick-up details, and useful arrival information.

How big is Iceland: Size, Population & Culture

Covering 103,000 km² with a population of roughly 389,000 residents, Iceland is defined by its wide-open spaces and strong sense of community. Despite its small size, the country ranks high in literacy, equality, and innovation. Icelanders value independence, cooperation, and a close relationship with nature.

→ Explore more about population in Iceland and local life.

Climate, Weather & Daylight

Iceland’s climate is milder than its latitude suggests, thanks to the Gulf Stream. Winters are windy and wet, while summers bring long daylight hours and cooler temperatures. Weather can change within minutes, so preparation is key — especially for those driving in rural areas. Daylight varies dramatically, from 24 hours in midsummer to only a few hours around December.

→ Visit our ultimate travel guide on Temperature and climate in Iceland.

Packing & What to Wear

Pack clothing suitable for quick weather changes: windproof jackets, warm layers, and sturdy shoes. Waterproof outerwear and hats are essential year-round. A swimsuit is recommended for Iceland’s geothermal pools, while road travelers should also bring a power bank, navigation tools, and a small emergency kit.

→ Read our Winter Driving Guide for gear and what to wear tips.

Driving in Iceland: Road Conditions & Safety

Driving in Iceland offers freedom to explore but also requires awareness of changing conditions. Many rural roads are gravel, bridges are often single-lane, and the Highlands are only accessible by 4×4 vehicles. Always check road and weather updates before setting out, and follow posted speed limits: 50 km/h in towns, 80 km/h on gravel roads, and 90 km/h on paved roads.

• Road Types & F-Roads: Only 4×4 vehicles may use mountain roads; off-road driving is prohibited.
• Speed Limits & Rules: Seatbelts are mandatory, and headlights must be on at all times.
• Seasonal Tips: In winter, drive slowly, use studded tires where required, and monitor wind warnings.

→ Find detailed guidance in our Drive Safely in Iceland article.

Car Rental Tips: Reykjavík & KEF Airport

Blue Car Rental offers convenient pick-up and drop-off locations in both Reykjavík and Keflavík Airport, allowing visitors to begin their journey right after arrival. The fleet includes compact cars, SUVs, and electric vehicles suitable for all seasons and road conditions. Insurance, roadside assistance, and online check-in make the rental process quick and stress-free.

• Vehicle Choice: City cars for Reykjavík, SUVs for the Highlands, or EVs for eco-friendly travel.
• Coverage & Safety Gear: Comprehensive insurance and 24/7 support included.
  

→ Discover the difference between KEF and Reykjavik airport and how to navigate the terminal in Iceland. 

The Icelandic Language

Icelandic is the official language of Iceland and one of the oldest living languages in Europe. It has changed remarkably little since the Viking Age, meaning that many Icelanders can still read the medieval sagas in their original form. The language is a deep source of national pride and identity — linguistic purity is preserved by creating new Icelandic words for modern concepts rather than adopting foreign terms.

Although Icelandic is the mother tongue, English is widely spoken throughout the country, particularly in Reykjavík, hotels, and tourist services. Many Icelanders also speak other Scandinavian languages such as Danish, Norwegian, or Swedish, as these are taught in schools. Visitors who learn a few simple phrases — like Góðan daginn (“Good day”) or Takk fyrir (“Thank you”) — are always met with a friendly smile.

→ Learn more about language and communication in Icelandic.

Icelandic Food & Cuisine

Icelandic food is shaped by the country’s climate, isolation, and access to some of the cleanest natural resources in the world. The cuisine focuses on freshness, simplicity, and the use of local ingredients. Lamb, fish, and dairy remain staples, while modern chefs have brought creativity and innovation to traditional recipes.

Notable dishes include:

• Skyr – a smooth, protein-rich dairy product unique to Iceland.
• Kjötsúpa – a traditional lamb and vegetable soup enjoyed in winter.
• Plokkfiskur – a comforting mashed fish stew made with potatoes and onions.
• Flatkaka – soft rye flatbread served with butter or smoked lamb.
• Hverabrauð (hot spring bread) – rye bread baked underground using geothermal heat.
  

Today, Iceland’s food scene blends old and new. Reykjavík’s restaurants celebrate local flavors through farm-to-table dining, while rural cafés often feature homemade specialties and fresh fish. Sustainability and respect for natural resources guide modern Icelandic cooking, making dining here both cultural and eco-conscious.

→ Explore Iceland’s culinary and interesting food sceen.

Icelandic Culture and Everyday Life

Community, creativity, and a strong bond with nature define Icelandic culture. The outdoors plays a central role — locals often spend weekends hiking, swimming in hot springs, or exploring the countryside. Almost every town has a geothermal swimming pool, serving as a social hub for conversation and relaxation.

Cultural traditions remain vibrant, from centuries-old folklore and Christmas stories to modern music and literature festivals. Despite its small population, Iceland is known for its remarkable artistic output: it’s home to internationally recognized musicians, writers, and filmmakers, and Reykjavík is a UNESCO City of Literature.

Equality, education, and sustainability are key societal values. Iceland consistently ranks among the world’s leaders in gender equality, renewable energy use, and quality of life. The Icelandic spirit — independent, creative, and community-driven — remains one of the country’s most defining features.

→ Explore more in our Icelandic Traditions and Customs articles.

Currency in Iceland

The official currency is the Icelandic króna (ISK). Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere — from gas stations and cafés to mountain cabins. ATMs are available in all towns, and most payments are made electronically. Cash is rarely needed, though it can be useful in very remote areas.

→ Learn more about krona and euros in Iceland when preparing for your trip .

Electricity & Power Plugs

Iceland uses 220-volt electricity with Type C and F plugs, the standard two-pin European format. Travelers from North America or the UK will need an adapter. Power is stable and entirely renewable, generated from hydroelectric and geothermal sources — one of Iceland’s most important environmental achievements.

→ For more travel prep details, visit our Driving Safely in Iceland page for on-the-road essentials.

Shopping Hours & Local Services

Most stores in Iceland open around 10:00 a.m. and close by 6:00 p.m. on weekdays, while supermarkets stay open later, often until 9:00 or 10:00 p.m. in Reykjavík and larger towns. Gas stations, convenience shops, and some bakeries operate longer hours, especially along main routes used by travelers.

→ Explore our Reykjavík City Office Information for details on local services and city logistics.

Connectivity & Internet Access

Iceland has excellent Wi-Fi and mobile coverage throughout most of the country, including along the Ring Road. Many car rentals, hotels, and cafés offer free Wi-Fi, and prepaid SIM cards are available at Keflavík Airport. Coverage may be limited in parts of the Highlands, so drivers should download maps for offline navigation.

→ Find advice on how to stay connected in Iceland.

Tax Refunds for Visitors

Visitors making retail purchases in Iceland can claim back Value Added Tax (VAT) when leaving the country. Refunds apply to most goods (not services) purchased in stores participating in the Tax-Free system. To claim, show your receipts and refund forms at the Keflavík Airport refund counter before departure.

→ Read more about VAT refunds as well as arrival and departure tips in our Keflavík Airport Car Rental Guide.

Icelandic Media & Radio

Iceland has a vibrant and diverse media landscape, combining strong public broadcasting with active private outlets. The Icelandic National Broadcasting Service (RÚV) is the state-owned public service broadcaster, operating national radio and television services. RÚV’s mission is to promote the Icelandic language, history, and culture, ensuring that programming reflects the country’s values and identity.

Press freedom in Iceland is protected by law, and the media operates independently with a high degree of public trust. In addition to RÚV, several private radio and television stations provide news, music, and entertainment. Bylgjan, one of the country’s most popular private radio stations, offers contemporary programming and national news coverage.

RÚV operates two national radio networks and four regional stations, covering both urban and rural communities. During summer months (June to August), the national broadcaster airs a short daily news program — available on FM 93.5 and FM 92.4 at 07:30 a.m. weekdays. Listeners can also access this broadcast by telephone at (+354) 515 3690.

Radio remains a vital source of information in Iceland, particularly for travelers and residents outside major cities, as it provides weather alerts, road updates, and safety information — essential for those exploring Iceland by car.

→ Find Iceland's most famous tv and movie locactions.

Post service in Iceland

There is an efficient airmail service to Europe and USA.

Opening hours include:

Mon-Fri 08:30-16:30. The post office in Austurstræti (Reykjavík center) is also open Sat 10:00-14:00 (Jun-Aug). Some offices open Mon-Fri 10:00-18:00.