ICELAND BEYOND
  • HOME
  • DAY TOURS
    • Outdoor Adventure >
      • Lava Tunnel Tours >
        • Evening Lava Tunnel Tour
        • Standard Lava Tunnel Tour
        • Standard Lava Tunnel Tour With Pick Up
        • Extreme Lava Tunnel Tour
        • Inside the Volcano
      • Helicopter Tours >
        • Reykjavik Mountain View
        • Geothermal Wilderness
        • Powerful Reykjanes Peninsula
        • Countless Craters Helicopter Tour
        • Reykjavik Summit Helicopter Tour Iceland 2019
        • Geothermal Helicopter Tour
        • Heli-Romance
        • Heli-Happy Hour
        • Glacier Landing
      • Snowmobiling Tours >
        • Snowmobile Tour on Myrdalsjokull
        • Reykjavik Snowmobile
        • Snowmobile and West Iceland
        • Snowmobile into the Glacier
        • The Pearl Tour
        • Into and Above the Glacier
        • Meet us at Gullfoss
      • Snorkeling Tours >
        • Snorkeling in Wetsuit
        • Snorkeling in Drysuit
        • Silfra Snorkeling Day Tour
        • Geothermal Snorkel Tour
      • ATV Day Tours >
        • 1 hour ATV Quad Bike Tour
        • 2 hours ATV Quad Bike Tour
        • 1 hour ATV Safari Tour
        • 2 hour ATV Safari tour
        • Sólheimasandur, ATV Ride & South Shore Waterfalls
        • 1 hour buggy safari tour
        • 2 hours buggy safari tour
      • Into The Glacier: Day Tour
      • Thorsmork daytour 2019
    • Iceland For Families >
      • Golden Circle Tours >
        • Golden Circle Coach Tour
        • Golden Circle Minibus Tour
        • Golden Circle and Waterfalls Tour
        • The Golden Circle and Fontana Wellness
      • South Coast Tours >
        • South Coast Coach Tour
        • South Coast Minibus Tour
        • South Coast Sagas
      • Northern Light Tours >
        • Northern Light Coach Tour
        • Northern Light Super Jeep Tour
        • Northern Lights Jeep Hunt
        • Northern Lights Minibus Tour
        • Northern Lights Small Group Tour
        • Northern Lights Hunt
        • Northern Lights Snowmobile Tour
      • Wonders of Snæfellsnes National Park >
        • Snaefellsnes Peninsula
        • Snaefellsnes Tour
    • Icelandic Nature >
      • Wildlife Day Tours >
        • Reykjavik Classic Whale Watching
        • Reykjavik Classic Puffin Watching
        • Whales, puffins and Reykjavik
      • Horse Riding Tours >
        • Lava Horseback Riding Tour
        • Family Adventure Horseback Riding Tour
        • Nature Comfort Horseback Riding Tour
        • Viking Horseback Riding Tour
        • Írárfoss Horseback Riding Tour
        • Eyjafjalla Horseback Riding Tour
        • Glacier Horseback Riding Tour
        • Black Beach Horseback Riding Tour
        • Erupting geysers and the beautiful Icelandic horse
      • Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon >
        • Jokulsarlon Amphibian Boat Tour
        • Jokulsarlon Zodiac Boat Tour
    • Wellness Wonder >
      • Krauma Spa
      • Laugarvatn Fontana Spa
      • Secret Lagoon
  • INSPIRATION
    • Food and dining
    • Art & Design
    • Icelandic Music
    • Cultural Experiences
    • About Iceland
  • PACKAGES
    • New Years Package to Remember
    • THANKSGIVING 2019
    • NORTHERN LIGHTS
    • ESCORTED TOUR
    • SELF DRIVE >
      • SELF DRIVE WINTER 2019
      • SELF DRIVE SPRING 2019
      • SELF DRIVE SUMMER 2019
      • SELF DRIVE SOUTH
      • SELF DRIVE WEST
    • Wellness Breaks >
      • LUXURY SPA BREAK
      • SPA & NORTHERNLIGHTS
      • ROMANTIC REYKJAVIK
      • Small Group Yoga Retreat
    • ICELAND STOPOVER >
      • Winter 2018
      • Spring 2019
      • Summer 2019
    • BEST OF ICELAND
    • CHRISTMAS & NEW YEARS
    • GET A QUOTE
  • LUXURY
    • The Retreat Hotel Blue Lagoon
    • Deplar Farm
    • ION Adventure Hotel
    • Black House
    • Skalakot Hotel
    • Transportation
    • Helicopter service
  • TOP TEN GUIDE
    • Top 10 Things To Do In Iceland
    • Top 10 Things To Do In Reykjavik
    • Top Things in Iceland
    • Icelandic Wellness
    • The Kid's Guide
    • To stay with kids
    • To eat with kids
    • Top shops for Kids
    • What did Celebs do?
    • Best Selfie Spots >
      • Practical Info
  • ABOUT
    • MEDIA COVERAGE
    • BOOK NOW
    • Terms & Conditions
  • Your Cart

Practical Information

Photo by ​Moyan Brenn​
PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Practical things to know for your Iceland Holiday


CALLING FROM ICELAND
The international code for calling Iceland from abroad is 354. There are no area codes in Iceland. To call internationally from Iceland, first dial 00 followed by the country code and telephone number. For directory assistance dial 118.

CLIMATE
​If you don't like the weather, just wait five minutes. This little pun is often told at the expense of the Icelandic weather. Thanks to the Gulf Stream, Iceland enjoys a cool, temperate maritime climate; refreshing summers and fairly mild winters. The weather is also affected by the East Greenland polar current curving south-eastwards round the north and east coasts. As a result, sudden weather changes are common, and travellers should prepare accordingly.  For weather info in English call: +354-902-0600 or visit the Met Office website.

CURRENCY AND MONEY EXCHANGE
The Icelandic monetary unit is the krona (plural kronur), which is abbreviated Kr or ISK. Money can be easily exchanged at the airport, bank and currency exchanges. All major credit cards are accepted and can be used to pay for virtually anything – except the public buses. Electron, Maestro and EDC debit cards are increasingly being accepted by merchants. ATM/Bank machines are found in most banks and many other locations throughout the country. Look for the Hradbanki sign.

DRIVING IN ICELAND  
Ring Road Nr. 1 around Iceland is 1,332 km (827 mi). The general speed limit is 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on gravel roads in rural areas, and 90 km/h on asphalt, rural roads. 

All mountain roads and roads in the interior of Iceland have a loose gravel surface. The surface on the gravel roads is especially loose along the sides of the roads, so one should drive carefully. The mountain roads are quite narrow and are not made for speeding. The same goes for some bridges that only allow one car to pass at a time. Be sure to visit www.safetravel.is if you have any plans to travel on mountain roads.   For current information on road conditions, call +354 522-1000, lines open daily from 8:00–16:00. Visit www.road.is for more information.
ELECTRICITY
The electric current in Iceland is 220 volts; 50 Hz AC. Icelandic electrical plugs are of the rounded, European two-pin type.

INTERNET ACCESS
Iceland is a tech-savvy country with internet access available almost everywhere including internet cafes in the larger cities and towns. Hotels and Guesthouses generally offer internet access and Wi-Fi free of charge. Internet websites for businesses and organizations in Iceland end in the suffix ‘.is’.

PASSPORT AND VISA REGULATIONS
Iceland joined the Schengen states on March 25, 2001, an agreement of 26 states to abolish checks at their common borders on the movement of persons and facilitate the transport and movement of goods at those borders.
The validity of the passport or recognised ID card must be at least three months beyond the proposed stay, except for citizens of EEA/EFTA countries. Those documents only need to be valid beyond the stay in Iceland. For information on passport and visa requirements visit the website of Icelandic Directorate of Immigration.

PHONES AND MOBILE SERVICE IN ICELAND
The code into Iceland from overseas is 354 plus the seven-digit number. Long-distance calls can be made to Europe and the USA by dialling 00 plus the country code and the telephone number you wish to reach. Four GSM service providers operate in Iceland: Siminn, Vodafone, TAL and Nova. Together they cover most of the Island, including a large proportion of the unpopulated area of the country. All these companies sell pre-paid GSM phone cards and offer GSM / GPRS service. You can also purchase credit refill cards at most gas stations or convenience stores in Iceland. You can also rent a Portable WiFi or iPad at Trawire and use it anywhere you go in Iceland. Connect to the Internet with fixed price & unlimited data usage. Up to 10 mobile devices or laptops can be connected via 3G and 4G without changing SIM card in your current mobile device.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
Extensive bus services are available in all major cities and towns. Tickets can be purchased at the local bus station or from the driver, with exact change only. See www.straeto.is/en/verslun/gjaldskra. Children under the age of six travel free of charge, and half price is charged for children aged 6–11. There is no rail or subway system in Iceland.

SMOKING IN PUBLIC / DRINKING AGE
Wine, beer and spirits are sold in government run stores called Vinbudin. The age limit for buying alcohol is 20. Smoking is not permitted on board aircrafts or other means of public transport. It is not permitted to smoke in public buildings and other places open to the public, offices, shopping centers, hotels, bars, and restaurants. The age limit for buying tobacco is 18.

TAXIS
All taxis accept credit cards and have to be reserved in advance. In some major cities and towns there are also taxi stations where you can line up to get a car. And there are of course taxi stands at airports for transfer. 

THE DRINKING WATER
The quality of the drinking water in Iceland is exceptionally good due to a wealth of fresh water rivers that stream down from the mountains and glaciers. We drink it straight from the tap and it is available everywhere, in cafes and restaurants too. 

TIPPING
In Iceland gratuity is always included in the bill therefore tipping is not required. This applies to everything: restaurants, taxis, cafés, room service and more. However if you do feel that you have received great service, Icelanders appreciate a tip and will gladly accept it.


USEFUL NUMBERS AND SERVICES


  • Emergency number: 112
  • Police: 444-1000
  • Medical assistance: 1770
  • Dental emergency: 575-0505
  • Information: 1819
  • Telegrams: 1446

WHAT KIND OF CLOTHING TO BRING TO ICELAND?
When travelling in Iceland you should bring along lightweight woollens, a sweater or cardigan, a rainproof (weatherproof) jacket and sturdy walking shoes. Layering is key. Travellers who are camping or heading into the interior will need warm underwear and socks, rubber boots, and a warm sleeping bag.
If you forget outdoor clothing there are many wonderful outdoor brands you can shop from: 66North - Cintamani - Icewear - Geysir - Farmers Market
HIGHLIGHTS PRACTICALITY  
  • Drive carefully - be prepared
  • Check the weather forecast!
  • Write down useful numbers
  • Land code is +354
  • Bring warm / waterproof clothes
  • Enjoy - it's amazing up here!

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Iceland Beyond is fully licensed by the Icelandic Tourist Board (travel protection equivalent to ATOL) We are accredited IATA Travel Agent.

What we can do for you?

When Iceland Beyond receives your message, you will receive a personalized quote from us. We will plan a personalized holiday in Iceland that will meet your interest, budget, and desires. From renting of cars to planning routes, accommodation, and eateries; we can handle your trip, and give you the perfect holiday in Iceland.
 
Explore our guide to some of the top places in Iceland, there you will find in-depth information on all wellness spots that are incredibly natural, as well as places to stay, eat, and also places where you can find family activities to engage in.

Why book with us? 
  •  Carefully and locally selected partners that are incredibly unique and superbly qualified
  • We give great value for money, amazing rates with no hidden charges
  • We help you save time and energy that you might expend in search for the right tours and hotels
  • Experts in Iceland holiday planning
  • You will receive professionally personalized service​
Thank you for planning our trip, it made the experience of seeing Iceland as a family so easy and enjoyable. We look forward to the next trip to see even more." Manoj Chevli, London

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Iceland Beyond / Ferðaskrifstofa Íslands ehf. has been awarded The strongest in Iceland 2017 by Creditinfo.
 © Iceland Beyond 2018 | Ferðaskrifstofa Íslands ehf. Hlidasmari 19, 201 Kopavogur, Iceland | ID-number: 470103-2990 | info@icelandbeyond.com  | +354 585 4000 | 
Home | Iceland Holiday Packages |  Make an enquiry | 
  • HOME
  • DAY TOURS
    • Outdoor Adventure >
      • Lava Tunnel Tours >
        • Evening Lava Tunnel Tour
        • Standard Lava Tunnel Tour
        • Standard Lava Tunnel Tour With Pick Up
        • Extreme Lava Tunnel Tour
        • Inside the Volcano
      • Helicopter Tours >
        • Reykjavik Mountain View
        • Geothermal Wilderness
        • Powerful Reykjanes Peninsula
        • Countless Craters Helicopter Tour
        • Reykjavik Summit Helicopter Tour Iceland 2019
        • Geothermal Helicopter Tour
        • Heli-Romance
        • Heli-Happy Hour
        • Glacier Landing
      • Snowmobiling Tours >
        • Snowmobile Tour on Myrdalsjokull
        • Reykjavik Snowmobile
        • Snowmobile and West Iceland
        • Snowmobile into the Glacier
        • The Pearl Tour
        • Into and Above the Glacier
        • Meet us at Gullfoss
      • Snorkeling Tours >
        • Snorkeling in Wetsuit
        • Snorkeling in Drysuit
        • Silfra Snorkeling Day Tour
        • Geothermal Snorkel Tour
      • ATV Day Tours >
        • 1 hour ATV Quad Bike Tour
        • 2 hours ATV Quad Bike Tour
        • 1 hour ATV Safari Tour
        • 2 hour ATV Safari tour
        • Sólheimasandur, ATV Ride & South Shore Waterfalls
        • 1 hour buggy safari tour
        • 2 hours buggy safari tour
      • Into The Glacier: Day Tour
      • Thorsmork daytour 2019
    • Iceland For Families >
      • Golden Circle Tours >
        • Golden Circle Coach Tour
        • Golden Circle Minibus Tour
        • Golden Circle and Waterfalls Tour
        • The Golden Circle and Fontana Wellness
      • South Coast Tours >
        • South Coast Coach Tour
        • South Coast Minibus Tour
        • South Coast Sagas
      • Northern Light Tours >
        • Northern Light Coach Tour
        • Northern Light Super Jeep Tour
        • Northern Lights Jeep Hunt
        • Northern Lights Minibus Tour
        • Northern Lights Small Group Tour
        • Northern Lights Hunt
        • Northern Lights Snowmobile Tour
      • Wonders of Snæfellsnes National Park >
        • Snaefellsnes Peninsula
        • Snaefellsnes Tour
    • Icelandic Nature >
      • Wildlife Day Tours >
        • Reykjavik Classic Whale Watching
        • Reykjavik Classic Puffin Watching
        • Whales, puffins and Reykjavik
      • Horse Riding Tours >
        • Lava Horseback Riding Tour
        • Family Adventure Horseback Riding Tour
        • Nature Comfort Horseback Riding Tour
        • Viking Horseback Riding Tour
        • Írárfoss Horseback Riding Tour
        • Eyjafjalla Horseback Riding Tour
        • Glacier Horseback Riding Tour
        • Black Beach Horseback Riding Tour
        • Erupting geysers and the beautiful Icelandic horse
      • Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon >
        • Jokulsarlon Amphibian Boat Tour
        • Jokulsarlon Zodiac Boat Tour
    • Wellness Wonder >
      • Krauma Spa
      • Laugarvatn Fontana Spa
      • Secret Lagoon
  • INSPIRATION
    • Food and dining
    • Art & Design
    • Icelandic Music
    • Cultural Experiences
    • About Iceland
  • PACKAGES
    • New Years Package to Remember
    • THANKSGIVING 2019
    • NORTHERN LIGHTS
    • ESCORTED TOUR
    • SELF DRIVE >
      • SELF DRIVE WINTER 2019
      • SELF DRIVE SPRING 2019
      • SELF DRIVE SUMMER 2019
      • SELF DRIVE SOUTH
      • SELF DRIVE WEST
    • Wellness Breaks >
      • LUXURY SPA BREAK
      • SPA & NORTHERNLIGHTS
      • ROMANTIC REYKJAVIK
      • Small Group Yoga Retreat
    • ICELAND STOPOVER >
      • Winter 2018
      • Spring 2019
      • Summer 2019
    • BEST OF ICELAND
    • CHRISTMAS & NEW YEARS
    • GET A QUOTE
  • LUXURY
    • The Retreat Hotel Blue Lagoon
    • Deplar Farm
    • ION Adventure Hotel
    • Black House
    • Skalakot Hotel
    • Transportation
    • Helicopter service
  • TOP TEN GUIDE
    • Top 10 Things To Do In Iceland
    • Top 10 Things To Do In Reykjavik
    • Top Things in Iceland
    • Icelandic Wellness
    • The Kid's Guide
    • To stay with kids
    • To eat with kids
    • Top shops for Kids
    • What did Celebs do?
    • Best Selfie Spots >
      • Practical Info
  • ABOUT
    • MEDIA COVERAGE
    • BOOK NOW
    • Terms & Conditions
  • Your Cart