Iceland Travel Guide: First-Timer Tips & Routes

Traveling to Iceland is one of those experiences that you remember for a lifetime. The country impresses from the first moment: smoking volcanoes, immense glaciers, waterfalls that appear in the middle of the road, black beaches, thermal pools… and a climate that can change your plans in a matter of minutes. It is a wild destination, with long distances, a small population and nature that is the protagonist at all times. Maybe that’s why it has such a special charm.

And although Iceland is a single island, many travelers talk about dos Islandias: summer and winter. Traveling in June, July or August means having light almost all day, open roads and green mountains. On the other hand, between November and March, the landscape transforms: snow, ice, sudden storms and very short days, but also northern lights, ice caves and those white landscapes that seem to never end. Two opposite sides of the same destination that, if you can afford it, are worth discovering at different times of the year.

Precisely because of these contrasts it is so important to plan well. Iceland is not a cheap destination, quite the contrary, so booking in advance, controlling your budget and adapting the routes to the time available can save you a lot of headaches. The weather rules, roads can be closed and many activities depend on the weather. Still, with the right information and a little flexibility, the trip usually turns out perfectly.

When to go: choose the best time

Choosing when to travel to Iceland is almost as important as deciding the route. The country changes a lot depending on the time of year.

A tip: check how many hours of daylight you will have on your trip. In the middle of winter, some areas barely have four or five hours of light.

How many days does it take

For a first time, the ideal is between seven and ten days, enough to get to know the most representative places without rushing.

And remember: in Iceland it is always advisable to leave room for unforeseen weather events.

Documentation and entry requirements

With Spanish nationality you can enter with a valid ID or passport, since the country is part of the Schengen area. No visa is required.

However, keep in mind that customs controls can be strict. In Iceland, there are clear limits on bringing in food, alcohol and tobacco, so it is a good idea to check the permitted quantities to avoid surprises at the airport. If you are going to drive, your Spanish license is completely valid.

How to get there

Most travelers arrive by plane at Keflavík International Airport, about 45 minutes from Reykjavík. There are direct flights from several Spanish cities at different times of the year.

Once there, to get to the capital you can opt for a shuttle bus, practical and frequent, a taxi or private transfer, more expensive but comfortable, or a rental car, ideal if you want to start the route from the first day. There is also a ferry from Denmark to Seyðisfjörður, but it is a minority option.

How to get around: car, bus or tour

Most travelers choose to rent a car. In summer, the main roads are in very good condition and it is very easy to drive. The famous Ring Road (Road 1) surrounds the entire island and connects practically all important points.

On the other hand, if your idea is to enter remote areas such as the Highlands, you should know that there you will find the F roads, high mountain tracks on which only 4×4 vehicles can circulate. Furthermore, insurance does not cover damage if you enter with a car that is not suitable.

At any time of the year (but especially in winter) it is essential to check the state of the roads on the official websites every day and be aware of wind, ice or possible temporary closures. The weather changes quickly, so don’t rush.

Gas stations are self-service and, although you will see many on the Ring Road, there are long stretches without any. Plan well where to refuel. The normal thing is to pay directly with a card at the pump machine.

It exists, but it is limited. It works best in summer and in busier areas, although it is not ideal if you want to see many places in a few days.

They are a very useful option in winter or if you don’t want to drive. There are tours to the Golden Circle, glaciers, auroras, the south coast or the volcanic regions, and they allow you to not worry about the weather and the road.

Money and payments

Iceland is an expensive country. Gasoline, food, restaurants, accommodation… everything costs more than in Spain. The good news is that you can stretch your budget quite a bit with a few tricks.

First, forget about exchanging money. In Iceland you pay for everything by card, from a coffee to the entrance fee to a local swimming pool. Carrying some cash is optional, but not essential.

Healthcare in Iceland

The European Health Insurance Card is valid in Iceland, but there is a co-payment system. In this way, you may have to assume part of the cost of medical care, even for treatments that would be free in Spain. It is best to take out travel insurance before leaving to cover any unforeseen events.

Mobile, data and internet

Getting online in Iceland is very simple. If your company is Spanish, the normal thing is that you can use yourself roaming at no additional cost. This allows you to navigate, use maps, check roads and check the weather without worrying about extra fees.

In addition, Wi-Fi is widespread. You will find it in hotels, cafes, restaurants and even gas stations. If you come from outside Europe, the alternatives are an eSIM, a local card or using Wi-Fi, but if you are going to move a lot by road, having data helps a lot.

Plugs and electricity

You don’t need an adapter. In Iceland the same type F plugs are used as in Spain and the current is 220 V. You can charge mobile phones, cameras and batteries normally.

Safety and climate

Iceland is very safe, but nature is not. Wind, ice and storms can complicate travel, especially in winter. Always check the weather forecast and respect official warnings.

In natural areas, be careful with cliffs, black sand beaches (the waves there are very dangerous) and geothermal areas. And remember: the country takes great care of its environment. Don’t step on the moss, don’t leave the trails and always take your trash with you.

How to make the trip cheaper

Iceland can be expensive, but there are plenty of ways to stretch your budget without giving up the experience.

Where to sleep

Staying in Iceland requires foresight, especially in high season, because the offer is limited. The best options are:

As a general rule, the further away you are from Reykjavík, the fewer the options will be. Therefore, as soon as you have the dates, book without thinking too much.

What to eat in Iceland: typical dishes

Icelandic gastronomy is simple, but tasty, based on local products and recipes that have accompanied the island’s inhabitants for centuries. Here are some dishes you should try:

Essentials that you cannot miss

If it is your first trip, these are the places that form the ‘backbone’ of any route through Iceland.

Activities that will make your trip even more special

Iceland is a country to experience outdoors. Beyond the landscapes, there are activities that you can enjoy depending on the season:

What to pack in your suitcase

Being well prepared makes the difference in Iceland. No matter the time of year, you should always wear clothing for cold, rain and wind.

And don’t forget an external battery for your cell phone, you’re going to use it more than you think.

Tips for seeing the northern lights

If you travel between September and April, you probably want to see northern lights. To increase your chances, keep the following in mind:

Auroras are never guaranteed, but when they appear, that moment justifies having come to the land of ice and fire.