Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US State Department currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions in Iceland.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
For the latest passport and visa requirements for this country, please consult the U.S. State Department’s “Learn About Your Destination” search tool, available through the link below.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages.html
US Embassy/Consulate
[354] 595-22-00; US Embassy in Reykjavik, Laufásvegur 21, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland; ReykjavikConsular@state.gov; https://is.usembassy.gov/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Telephone Code
354
Local Emergency Phone
112
Vaccinations
The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Iceland: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, COVID-19.
http://www.who.int/
Climate
Temperate; moderated by North Atlantic Current; mild, windy winters; damp, cool summers
Currency (Code)
Icelandic kronur (ISK)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, F
Major Languages
Icelandic, English, Nordic languages, German
Major Religions
Evangelical Lutheran Church of Iceland (official), Roman Catholic, Reykjavik Free Church, Hafnarfjordur Free Church, pagan worship, Icelandic Ethical Humanist
Time Difference
UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water
Yes
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Right
Tourist Destinations
Blue Lagoon in Grindavík; Geysers in Strokkur; Thingvellir National Park; Reykjavik; whale watching from Reykjavik; Gullfoss Waterfall; Northern Lights; Landmannalaugar Nature Reserve; Maelifell Volcano; Myrdalsjökull Glacier
Major Sports
Handball, soccer, track and field, golf, basketball, tennis
Cultural Practices
Self-sufficiency, the work ethic, and independence are strongly valued here, and the brusque manners of Icelanders hide a friendly, helpful nature reflected in a dedication to the immediate community.
Tipping Guidelines
Tipping is not expected at hotels and restaurants since most bills include a service charge for gratuities. Round up taxi fares.
Souvenirs
Hand-knit wool items including blankets, sweaters, hats, coats, and mittens; pottery, local spirits, Viking themed items and dolls in traditional costumes; carved fish skin, lava rock, and driftwood items; felt stuffed animal toys
Traditional Cuisine
Lamb; Hákarl — cured (fermented) shark meat
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Thursday, August 22, 2024
