What is the language of Iceland?

Icelandic is the official language of Iceland. However most Icelanders also speak fluent English and some also speak other languages including the Nordic languages, Spanish, French, Italian and German. Read more about the Icelandic language.

What is the currency in Iceland?

National currency is Icelandic króna, and it is normally abbreviated as "kr." or "ISK". Króna has 5 denominations of banknotes: 500 ISK, 1.000 ISK, 2.000 ISK (being removed from circulation), 5.000 ISK and 10.000 ISK. Coins also exist, and they are of the following types: 1 ISK, 5 ISK, 10 ISK, 50 ISK and 100 ISK. Read more here.

Shopping in Iceland

The cosmopolitan atmosphere in Reykjavík might come as a surprise but Icelanders actually have a great sense of fashion and you can shop the most popular brands and the latest in world fashion there. Icelanders also love design and the best local design shops can be found on Laugavegur and Skólavörðustígur in Reykjavík, along with souvenir shops, the famous Icelandic outdoor clothing stores (66° North, Cintamani and Icewear) and other interesting stores, restaurants and cafés.

There are two big shopping malls in Reykjavík, Kringlan and Smáralind. The shopping hours in Iceland can vary, but most shops are open between 09:00 and 18:00 from Monday to Friday, the shopping hours are usually shorter during the weekends.

If you are looking for an Icelandic souvenir like the woolen knitwear (lopapeysa), jewellery, crafts, clothing or music then check out Kolaportið in Reykjavík. Also if you are travelling around the country don’t be shy to check out the local stores and galleries, that's where you find the good stuff!

Grocery stores - If you want to save some money on food there are a lot of supermarkets around Iceland. There are several different chains around the country that vary in size, price and selection. In Reykjavik you can find many supermarkets in all price ranges but if you are traveling outside of Reykjavik there are more limited options.

Bónus - Budget Store. 32 stores around Iceland. Cheapest grocery store in Iceland.
Krónan - Budget Store. 17 stores around Iceland.
Nettó - Budget Store. 16 stores around Iceland. Some stores are open 24 hours.
Kjarval - Budget Store. 4 stores in South Iceland.
Hagkaup - Mid-range store. 11 stores around Iceland. Food, clothes, cosmetics and other items. Some stores are open 24 hours.
Iceland - Mid-range store. 7 stores around Iceland. All stores are open 24 hours.
Samkaup Úrval/Strax and Kjörbúðin - Mid-range store. About 20 stores around Iceland.
10-11 - Expensive - 35 stores around Iceland. Most stores are open 24 hours.

For information about Tax Free shopping in Iceland visit Directorate of Customs.

Tipping in Iceland

Tipping is not necessary in Iceland as the cost of service and VAT is included in all prices. However if you like the service you get, for example at a restaurant, hotel or from your tour guide there is nothing wrong with leaving a tip and most people will appreciate it. It is not rude or illegal to tip in Iceland but also not customary so totally up to you.

Liquor store and legal drinking age

Alcohol is not sold in grocery stores in Iceland, it is only sold at a state liquor store called Vínbúð (The wine store). You can find the Vínbúð in most towns around Iceland and they are usually open between 11:00 - 18:00 Monday to Saturday. In some towns the stores have shorter opening hours and there is no service on Sundays.

The legal drinking age in Iceland is 20 years old. To buy alcohol in the Vínbúð, in bars or restaurant you have to provide proof of age with photo ID for example, driver's license or passport.

Emergency number

The Icelandic emergency number is 112. Read more about Health and Safety in Iceland.

Banks of Iceland

There are three major banks in Iceland: Landsbankinn, Arion Banki and Íslandsbanki.
The banks in Iceland are generally open from 09:00 to 17:00 on Weekdays and are closed on public holidays. Banks and ATMs can be found in Reykjavik and bigger towns across Iceland.

Post office

Post offices can be found in most towns in Iceland and are usually open from 09:00 to 18:00 on weekdays but opening hours may vary in smaller towns. For more information visit the post office website.

Electricity

Iceland’s electricity supply runs at 220V/50hz with two round pins. Northern European electrical standard.

Water

You can drink the tap water in Iceland. Safe money and the environment and bring a bottle with you from home and refill it as you go.