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Iceland

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About Iceland

The feisty volcanoes, spurty geysers, steaming hillocks and lonely lava plains in itself sounds like an unforgettable adventure. Add to it the ethereal Northern lights, gleaming glacial caves, majestic whales, and warm soothing geothermal waters. Offering the best tourist places in Iceland, it is a stunning display of nature’s incredible beauty.

From the fantastic aurora borealis or northern lights, active volcanoes, waterfalls, volcanic craters and geysers at The Golden Circle to the unparalleled seafood, beautiful ice caves and world’s best hot springs, Who says there is nothing but ice in Iceland?

Where else can you trek majestic ice caves, tour about an active volcano on a helicopter, witness northern lights from the luxury of your hotel, and swim in the most epic swimming pools in the world than Iceland?

The unusual yet tasty Hákarl - Shark and Svið - Sheep's head, calls food junkies for an unprecedented meal. Be it shopping for souvenirs, Icelandic art or fashion clothes at Geysir, or wool sweaters and warm clothes at Kolaportid Flea Market,  Iceland has something for everyone. And the unusual landscapes of Iceland has no dearth of adventures. How about exploring the countryside on Icelandic horses, witnessing the iconic Gullfoss Waterfall, playing with puffins at the old harbour in Reykjavik, diving the silfra fissure, or simply relaxing in the mineral rich waters of the Blue Lagoon? Iceland has something for everyone.

And although Iceland looks otherworldly, the friendly locals make it up for the puffin burgers and fermented shark. Also, the roads of Iceland are gloriously crowd free. A true haven if you are considering a crowd free holiday destination unlike other European Countries. It should be in your bucket list to explore the
best tourist places in Iceland.

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Iceland FAQ's

Travel advice:

1. Conduct your research before choosing a stay: One of those factors that should be kept in mind while visiting a holiday destination is to conduct your research regarding that place well. Understand the culture, tradition and how-abouts of the place. Moreover, when it comes to choosing a stay for yourself then it is better advisable to opt for something that is comfortable and convenient to your needs. Choose from a number of resorts, hotels and home-stays and enjoy the culture of Iceland.

2. Enjoy Iceland’s culture for what it is
: While the truth about Iceland is that it doesn’t take time for visitors to get used to the culture that prevails in Iceland. In fact, visitors find it extremely easy to understand the culture and work accordingly given how easy-going the place actually is. Enjoy Iceland’s culture for what it truly is.

3. Transportation
: The great thing about transportation in Ice land is that one won’t have a difficult time exploring the cities as they are well connected. You need not worry about travelling from places to places. However, hiring a car or bike for your personal need in the place great helps. Don’t miss out on any locations and ensure that you get to see all the primary attractions at your convenience.

4. Carry a map
: Iceland is quite expansive in terms of its geographical expansion, however, it is always advisable to carry a map when you’re planning on venturing around the place. The names can get quite confusing and if you lose your way, you may even face a hard time communicating with the locals as there is a high possibility that you may not share the same language with.

5. To tip or not to tip
: If you’re staying at a resort or a hotel then it is quite obvious that you won’t be required or expected to end a certain matter with a tip. The same applies to restaurants as well. Most of the times, it is your well-trusted guide that takes care of such situations and if you’re without one then do as you may without feeling obligated.

6. Avoid the crowd
: While, Iceland itself is not very crowded, there are thousands of tourists flocking every year. And you already know, the real joy and essence of one place can truly be experienced provided there is lesser amount of distraction. Visitors would quite naturally want to visit Turkey during a time when it’s less crowded. Thus, avoid visiting Iceland during peak periods of March, April, October and November as the hotel and resort bookings get full almost instantly and air tickets get quite expensive too.

7. Drinking laws
: Alcohol is quite easily obtainable in this place. The legal drinking age in Iceland is 18 and the night-life is quite sorted as well. Party your heart out while you’re in this place. There are numerous pubs, restaurants and bars that will take care of the wild side in you.

When is the best time to visit Iceland?

The best time to visit Iceland depends mainly on what you want to do and see.

Iceland has a concentrated tourist season in the months of July and August especially because it is summer and one can witness the midnight sun.

  • The summer months makes for an extremely rewarding time for whale watching.
  • If you want to see the northern lights then February, March, September and October are typically the best months.
  • The shoulder season months of May and September are fantastic times to visit due to good weather and competitive hotel prices. If you want to spot Birds, especially puffins then the months of May and June are the best.

Do I need a visa for Iceland? How does one get a Iceland visa?

Yes, you need a Schengen Visa for Iceland. Iceland comes in the list of 26 Schengen countries which means that you do not need an exclusive visa for Iceland. A schengen visa will do. A Schengen visa gives you an access to all the 26 countries included in the list of Schengen countries along with Iceland. The Embassy of Denmark handles visa applications for Iceland in India. The visa application is to be filled and submitted to The Embassy of Denmark located in New Delhi. The documents required includes a passport with at least 3 months of validity from the date of arrival in India, and at least two blank pages, latest passport size photographs and any government issued Id.

The tourist visa/short stay visa is valid for a duration of 90 days and takes 16 days to process. The visa fees costs INR 4560 along with INR 1569 VFS service fees.

What is the currency of Iceland and where can I get my money exchanged?

The currency of Iceland is Icelandic króna. You can get your currency exchanged in Iceland at ATMs, Banks, Hotels and Airport desks. There is a Landsbankinn Bank at Keflavik International Airport which gives you a good mid market exchange rate. ATMs and cashpoints can be found easily in cities and towns. You can get cash, cash travellers cheques and exchange notes with your credit and debit cards from Banks. Although visa and Mastercards are accepted almost everywhere, it is a good idea to keep some cash handy if you intend to visit isolated villages and remote areas.

What is the local food of Iceland? Which are the best places to taste this food?

The local food of Iceland comprises of a lot of seafood, from fermented sharks Hákarl to Hung and smoked meat Hangikjöt and Súrir hrútspungar - Sour ram's testicles.

The best places to taste Icelandic cuisine are

  • Dill Restaurant, Reykjavík
  • Fiskfelagid Fish Company, Reykjavík
  • Grillmarkaðurinn, Lækjargata, Reykjavík
  • kaffi hornid, Höfn í Hornafirði
  • Lava Restaurant, The Blue Lagoon
  • The Laundromat Café, Reykjavík
  • Sjavargrillid (seafood grill), Skólavörðustígur, Reykjavík
  • Apotek, Austurstræti, Reykjavík
  • Kaffivagninn, Grandagarður, Reykjavík

What is the best public transport to commute around Iceland?

By Bus: Iceland’s local transport is limited to bus and taxi. Iceland has an extensive network of long distance buses that run to most of the places including Reykjavík,  Akranes, Borgarnes, Hveragerði, Selfoss, Hvalfjarðarsveit, most places on the Ring Road, popular hiking areas, and Snæfellsnes Peninsulas.

Therefore, the best public transport to commute around Iceland is a bus. You can book online or get bus passports to travel. The bus passports are offered every summer when the tourist season is at peak for the convenience of the tourists.

By Taxi: Taxi is another option you can consider while commuting around Iceland. Taxis operate in Reykjavík area and many other larger towns. Although they are metered, they can be pricey and it is always wise to prebook.

By Car and Motorcycle: The roads are good and the traffic is light which means you can easily get around in a rented car or motorcycle. It is a great deal if you are travelling in a group of 3 or 4 but again the gas is expensive in Iceland.

By Train: There is no train network in Iceland.

By Boat: Some ferries operate around Iceland and takes you from Bolungarvík and Ísafjörður to points in Hornstrandir (Westfjords)

What is the local language in Iceland and which are the most commonly used greetings? (mention at least 4) (Hello, Thank you, Good morning/night, What is the price of ____?, How far is _____?)

The local language of Iceland is Icelandic. Here is a list of most commonly used greetings in Icelandic to help you communicate better with the locals.

  • Hello- Halló
  • Thank you- Þakka þér fyrir
  • Good Morning- Góðan daginn
  • Good Night- góða nótt
  • What the price of___? - hvað er verð á
  • How far is___? - hversu langt er

Which are the best shopping places in Iceland and what are they famous for?

Along with all the photographs, and unforgettable memories you would carry along with you, the dainty shopping streets and fleas of Iceland calls for some souvenir shopping.

  • Kirsuberjatréð famous for beautiful art, ceramics and handmade objects.
  • Kraum in the center of Reykjavik fashionable clothes, stationery, art and accessories.
  • Kolaportid Flea Market famous for wool sweaters, fermented fish and old comics.
  • North 66°, city center, famous for outdoor coats and gear.
  • Reykjavik Draper’s union, across the street from Geysir, famous for handmade bags and aprons made of leather and canvas.
  • Aurum famous for scandinavian home decor and jewelry.
  • Geysir, Skólavörðustíg 16, soft wool sweaters and blankets, leather boots, bags, and hats.
  • Kogga, Old Harbour, ceramics and paintings
  • Álafoss, Mosfellsbær famous for hand- or machine-made lopapeysur (Icelandic woollen sweaters).

What are the most popular camping sites in Iceland?

With around 170 campsites, Iceland offers camping opportunities in summer as well as year around. Here is a list of some of the most popular camping sites in Iceland.

  • Skaftafell, Vatnajökull National park
  • Grindavik, southwest coast
  • Þakgíl, north of Vík
  • Siglufirði, northern coast
  • Höfn, East Iceland
  • Húsafell, Borgarfjörður
  • Úlfljótsvatn, Reykjavik
  • Egilsstaðir, center of East Iceland
  • Ásbyrgi, North of Iceland
  • Látrabjarg, Westfjords
  • Hellissandur, Snæfell peninsula

What are the famous waterfalls in iceland?

Europe’s most powerful and awe-inspiring waterfalls can be found in Iceland. Here is a list of famous waterfalls in Iceland.

  • Seljalandsfoss, South Coast of Iceland
  • Glymur Waterfall, Hvalfjordur
  • Svartifoss Waterfall, Skaftafell, Vatnajokull National Park
  • Haifoss Waterfall, South of Iceland
  • Brúarfoss, Brekkuskógur
  • Aldeyjarfoss, North of Iceland
  • Gullfoss Waterfall, Golden Circle Route, Iceland
  • Godafoss Waterfall, Akureyri
  • Dettifoss Waterfall, Vatnajokull National Park
  • Ketubjörg, North Iceland

What are the most popular glacier hiking trails in iceland?

Iceland is famous for its glacier hiking trails. Have a look at some of the most popular glacier hiking trails in Iceland.

  • Glymur waterfall hike, Hvalfjörður
  • Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls hike
  • Mt. Esja hike, Reykjavík
  • Hvannadalshnjúkur summit, Vatnajökull glacier
  • Sólheimajökull hike, Reykjavík
  • Svinafellsjökull hike, Skaftafell Nature Reserve
  • Fimmvorduhals hike
  • Landmannalaugar hike
  • Glacier hike on Snæfellsnes peninsula
  • Hornstrandir, Westfjords

What are the adventures one can do in Iceland?

Iceland has some of the most remarkable landscapes on Earth making it a haven for adventure seekers. Here is a list of adventures one can do in Iceland:

  • Dip into the Geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon
  • Play with puffins on Látrabjarg cliff
  • Go Glacier hiking in Sólheimajökull
  • Watch whales in Húsavík’s snug harbour.
  • Sample the local Hákarl - Shark
  • Witness the ethereal Northern lights
  • Explore Iceland’s highlands on Icelandic horses
  • Bathe in the fuming and sulphurous waters at Askja
  • Visit Blue Diamond Cave in Vatnajökull Glacier in Iceland
  • Take a helicopter ride over the active Bárðarbunga volcano

Which are the most iconic buildings in Iceland?

Along with the undulating and ethereal landscapes, Iceland also has some notable architecture, that many are unaware about. Here is a list of some of the most iconic buildings in Iceland.

  • Harpa concert hall and conference centre, Austurbakki, Reykjavík
  • Kjerag Panoramic Hotel
  • Hallgrímskirkja, Reykjavík
  • Hofsós Swimming Pool, ofsósbraut, Hofsós
  • Höfðatorg Tower 1, Reykjavík
  • Icelandic Institute of National History, Reykjavík
  • Budir Church
  • Snaefells Sofa Visitor Center, Vatnajokull National Park
  • Hof Residence/ Studio Granda, Skagafjörður Fjord
  • Reykjavík Cathedral, Reykjavík

What is the best time to experience northern lights in Iceland?

Witnessing Northern lights or Aurora Borealis is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The best time to experience northern lights in Iceland is in the months of September to mid-April. The northern lights appear on full dark nights so these months are the best time. Also the probability of witnessing northern lights depends upon the duration of your stay. It is expected you stay for at least 7 days in Iceland. Also if the sky is clear and there is no precipitation or clouds like in summers, you can experience northern lights. It is advisable to check out with the meteorological department before heading out to watch the northern lights.

What are the best hot springs in Iceland?

Wading in warm, mineral rich, geothermal waters is the favourite pastime of people in Iceland. Here is a list of best hot springs in Iceland to calm your mind and soothe your body.

  • Blue Lagoon, Reykjanes
  • Nautholsvik geothermal beach, Reykjavik
  • Landbrotalaug, Reykjavik
  • Grjótagjá, Lake Mývatn
  • Leirubakki, Hekla
  • Viti, Askja
  • Landmannalaugar, Fjallabak Nature Reserve
  • Gamla Laugin, Flúðir, Golden Circle area
  • Snorralaug, Reykholt
  • Grettislaug, Varmahlíð

Where to go for whale watching in Iceland?

Iceland provides you unforgettable whale watching experiences all year round. Take a look at the places you can go whale watching in Iceland.

  • Daivik Village, North Iceland
  • Húsavík Island
  • Reykjavik marina
  • The Golden Circle
  • Grimsey Island
  • Skjálfandi and Eyjafjörður bays
  • Old Harbor in Reykjavík

Which are the most famous volcanoes in Iceland?

Iceland is home to over 30 active volcanoes making it the most volcanic places in the World. Here is a list of some of the most famous volcanoes in Iceland.

  • Eyjafjallajökul, Suðurland
  • Katla, beneath the Myrdalsjökull icecap
  • Hengill, south of Þingvellir
  • Hekla, south of Iceland
  • Eldfell, Heimaey island, Vestmannaeyjar
  • Snæfellsjökull, Western Iceland
  • Grímsvötn, South-East Iceland
  • Askja, Dyngjufjöll mountains
  • Vatnafjöll, Southeast of Hekla
  • Esjufjöll, SE part of the Vatnajökull icecap
  • Hverfjall, northern Iceland
  • Theistareykjarbunga, northeastern Iceland
  • Torfajökull, north of Mýrdalsjökull and south of Þórisvatn Lake
  • Eldgjá, South of Iceland
  • Herðubreið, north-east Iceland

What are the best beaches to visit in Iceland?

There is certainly no shortage of beautiful beaches in Iceland but some are simply more beautiful and we couldn’t help but list the best beaches to visit in Iceland.

 

  • Reynisfjara Beach near Vik (South Iceland)
  • Budir Beach (West Iceland)
  • Kirkjubol Beach (West Iceland)
  • Nautholsvik Beach in Reykjavik (Greater Reykjavik Area)
  • Álftanes Beach (Greater Reykjavik Area)
  • DJúpalónssandur, Snæfellsnes Peninsula
  • Grótta, Seltjarnarnes Peninsula
  • Sandvík, Reykjanes Peninsula
  • Breiðavík, Westfjords, Iceland
  • Sandvík, Reykjanes Peninsula

Which are the most famous ice caves to visit in Iceland?

The ice caves of Iceland are truly mesmerising and there are many ice cave tours you can go about exploring. Here is a list of some of the most famous ice caves to visit in Iceland.

  • Crystal Cave in Vatnajökull Glacier in Iceland
  • Northern Lights Ice Cave
  • Blue Diamond Cave in Vatnajökull Glacier in Iceland
  • Glacier Cave by Katla Glacier in Iceland
  • The Waterfall Cave in Vatnajökull Glacier in Iceland
  • Svínafellsjökull Ice Cave, Skaftafell National Park
  • Lofthellir Ice cave
  • Breiðamerkurjökul ice cave, near Vatnajökull
  • Eyjafjallajokull ice cave
  • Kverkfjoll ice caves, north east highlands of Vatnajökull

Here are the best tips Thrillophilia has to offer for your trip to Iceland

  • The weather of Iceland is truly volatile, a sunny day can quickly turn to a cold snowy day, get a forecast at the Icelandic Met Office before heading out to any alien or remote place.
  •  

    • The locals are more aware with the changing weather of the Icelandic landscapes. It is advisable to hire a proper hiking tour operator and pack serious gear, and warm dry clothes. Dress smart and warm, after all no one wants to get stuck in the middle of a remote place without proper gear to keep them safe and warm.

     

    • Iceland is expensive compared to other European countries, probably due to its location. Make your hotel bookings in advance to cut a great deal on your expenses and make the most out of the the breakfast served to you in your hotel.

     

    • Wander about responsibly and use common sense. It is because you will find no ropes alongside waterfalls, and no safety rail besides cliff edges. Icelanders rely on people to be smart and don’t like to mar the beauty of nature with man made things.

     

    • Cafe and restaurants near famous attractions and National parks may not be open all the time, carry some water and snacks along.

     

    • The best of Iceland lies outside Reykjavik. Explore the natural wonders and the countryside, stay in a camp for a day, or a farmhouse instead for a hotel and interact with the locals to truly take in the Icelandic culture.

     

    Which are the best places to visit in Iceland?

    1. Hornstrandir Nature Reserve: If you are in Iceland and wish to explore and experience the best of its natural bounty, the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is one of the best places to visit in Iceland. With open areas of lush forests and grasslands, it is home to the rare and elusive species of the Arctic Fox and is perfect for camping.

    2. Maelifell: The Maelifell Volcano makes a perfect addition to the places to visit in Iceland. Towering to heights of almost 800 metres above sea level, the volcano stands in its majestic glory in the North of the Icelandic ice caps in a desert of black sand.

    3. Kirkjufell- Making its popularity known by being the most photographed mountain in the country, the Kirkjufell mountain stands at a height of almost 500 metres above sea level and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Iceland. The mountain is also famous for changing its colour throughout the year, offering a different shade every season.

    4. Askja- Askja is a caldera, or a volcanic crater surrounded by the pristine Dyngjufjöll mountains and is one of the top tourist places in Iceland. Over time, the aldera has been formed into a beautiful lake.

    Which are the best beaches in Iceland?

    1. Djupalonssandur- The Djupalonssandur beach makes for a subtle yet important addition to the tourist places in Iceland. It is primarily a black pebble beach in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and used to be the fishing site of a prolific community’ remnants of which are still visible.

    2. Raudasandur- Raudasandur is yet a beach that is often overlooked amongst the popular destinations, but is nevertheless one of the best places in Iceland. The beach owes its characteristic velvet colour and texture to the grinded scallop shells that constitute its top layer.

    3. Reynisfjara- The Reynisfjara beach is located in the Southern parts of the country, and is one of the best places in Iceland to spend your time at. It is a black pebble beach jutting out into the waters at irregular intervals, and is infamous for being a hazardous site.

    4. Sandvik- Nestling amongst two of the country’s many famous volcanic cliffs, the Sandvik is one of the best Iceland attractions, especially for ones interested in watersports. The black pebble beach apart from its natural beauty, is famous for its wild waters and gusty winds, making it a favourite spot for the surfing community.

    How much would a week in Iceland cost?

    A week’s stay in Iceland comes around 1,55,000 kr, which is roughly equivalent to 18,000 USD or 13,00,000 INR.

    What is special in Iceland?

    Fondly dubbed as the land of ‘ice and fire’, Iceland is a country where the active volcanoes and towering glacial mountains exist side by side. While the gorgeous black volcanoes here dominate the country’s skyline, the glaciers with its stunning lakes and icebergs add to the beauty of the place.

    What should I not miss in Iceland?

    Iceland’s beauty lies in its characteristic rocky terrains and mountain. When in Iceland, you should definitely make the most out of the volcanic craters open for tourist visits, and its black pebble beaches.

    Is Iceland expensive to visit?

    Being one of the top tourist destinations across the world, a trip to Iceland can be a bit heavy on the pockets. Having said that, there are definitely ways to cut spending and make your stay more economic, such as camping instead of booking a hotel. An average expenditure per day here is kr 21,957.

    What is famous in Iceland?

    Amongst the many beautiful things in the country, if one were to single out a single definitive attraction in Iceland, it would definitely be the Blue Lagoon. The site has been famously lauded by National Geographic to be amongst the 25 wonders of the world, characterised by its foamy and frothy waters surrounded by the black sands of a lava terrain.

    Which are the best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

    1. þingvellir National Park: The dramatic panorama of moss & lava rock make þingvellir National Park an excellent backdrop for the Northern Lights. This place also has excellent accommodation options, where you can rest & wait for the Aurora Borealis.

    2. Öskjuhlíð: 
    Öskjuhlíð is a forested land, where you will see the glass-domed restaurant of Perlan. Perched atop a hill, far away from the city lights, Perland in Öskjuhlíð makes for an unparalleled site to view the Northern Lights.

    3. Grótta: 
    With a cold sky and negligible light pollution, the nature reserve of Grótta offers excellent Northern Lights sighting opportunities. The black sands & jagged coastline of Grótta make the place a popular attraction.

    4. Ásbyrgi Canyon: 
    Lying around 64km away from Skjálfandi, Ásbyrgi Canyon is a beautiful, far-flung site, where you can enjoy marveling at the Aurora Borealis. With its 100 meters high cliffs and a dense forest of willow, birch, & ash, this place offers an earthly & cosmic vibe.

    Iceland Reviews

    review-img
    Ezekiel Reed
    Reviewed: 29 Nov 2023
    5.0/5
    I recently returned from the most fantastic adventure with Thrillophilia tour! 5 days spent discovering the finest of South, West, and North Iceland was simply amazing. 🌍 Witnessing the Golden Circle, relaxing in the Secret Lagoon, and admiring the natural beauty were all amazing experiences. Our ... Read More
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    Prince Kumar
    Reviewed: 12 Dec 2023
    5.0/5
    Spectacular sights and warm hospitality made our Iceland tour unforgettable. The memories we made will last a lifetime. Every point was discussed in great depth. The visa crew were constantly open and honest. Everything went smoothly the entire time. Thank you so much and congrats to the Thrillophi... Read More
    review-img
    Sahana Parveen
    Reviewed: 07 Dec 2023
    5.0/5
    Spectacular sights and warm hospitality made our Iceland tour unforgettable. The memories we made will last a lifetime. Every point was discussed in great depth. The visa crew were constantly open and honest. Everything went smoothly the entire time. Thank you so much and congrats to the Thrillophi... Read More
    review-img
    Sheela Joshi
    Reviewed: 14 Dec 2023
    5.0/5
    Iceland exceeded all expectations! Every day brought new adventures 🌄 and breathtaking scenery Our tour manager, 🧳 was incredibly well-organized 📋 and had great insight 💡 about every location we were meant to see. He also made sure we made the most of our time ⏰ and didn't let the group miss ... Read More
    review-img
    Peyton Foster
    Reviewed: 14 Dec 2023
    5.0/5
    Iceland exceeded all expectations! Every day brought new adventures 🌄 and breathtaking scenery Our tour manager, 🧳 was incredibly well-organized 📋 and had great insight 💡 about every location we were meant to see. He also made sure we made the most of our time ⏰ and didn't let the group miss ... Read More
    review-img
    Vasudeva Shah
    Reviewed: 06 Dec 2023
    5.0/5
    Thrillophilia's Iceland tour was an adventure from start to finish! The Golden Circle tour was fascinating, soaking in the Secret Lagoon was pure bliss, and exploring the Diamond Circle & Snaefellsnes Peninsula offered stunning landscapes. Every day was a new adventure, and the included transfers ma... Read More

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