Iceland

Reykjavik

Iceland is small, dramatic, and expensive. Reykjavik itself is walkable in a day but most travellers use it as a base for the Golden Circle and the south coast. Keflavik airport is 50 km from the city and there is no train.

Entry requirements

Part of the Schengen area. 90 days visa free for most Western passports. Passport must be valid three months beyond departure.

Transportation

The Flybus and Airport Direct shuttles are the standard airport transfer, about 3,500 ISK one way. Renting a car is common for anything outside Reykjavik. The domestic bus network is limited.

Currency

Icelandic Krona. Cards are accepted everywhere, even at rural petrol stations. Cash is essentially unnecessary.

Airports

Keflavik (KEF) handles all international flights. Reykjavik Airport (RKV) serves only domestic routes.

Practical tips

Drink tap water. It is some of the cleanest in the world and bottled water is a waste of money.
Fuel up before leaving Reykjavik on long drives. Petrol stations in the interior can be 100 km apart.
Check road.is before any winter drive - closures happen suddenly.

Common traveller mistakes

Renting a small 2WD car and attempting F roads. They are legally 4WD only.
Underestimating the wind. Car doors have been ripped off by gusts.