Currency: The Icelandic Króna (ISK) is the national currency. Iceland is one of the most cashless countries in the world — cards are accepted virtually everywhere, including remote petrol stations, food trucks, and public toilets. You rarely need cash. ATMs are available in Reykjavik and larger towns.
Cost: Iceland is expensive. Budget travelers can scrape by on €80–100 per day if they self-cater and camp. Mid-range visitors should expect €150–200 per day for accommodation, a restaurant dinner, and activities. Eating out in Reykjavik is especially costly; buying groceries from Bonus or Kronan supermarkets cuts costs significantly.
Language: Icelandic is the official language. English is widely spoken throughout the country, including in rural areas. You'll have no difficulty getting around as an English speaker.
Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Type F sockets (the standard European two-pin round plug). Travelers from North America need a plug adapter and possibly a voltage converter.
Time zone: UTC+0 year-round. Iceland does not observe daylight saving time.
Mobile and internet: Coverage is good in populated areas and along the main roads. The interior highlands have poor or no signal. Local SIM cards (Nova, Síminn) are available at the airport and in Reykjavik. Wi-Fi is standard in accommodation and most cafés.
Health: Iceland has an excellent public health system. EU/EEA citizens should carry an EHIC card for emergency treatment. Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is advisable for adventure activities. No vaccinations are required.
Safety: Iceland has very low crime. The main risks are natural — hypothermia, sudden weather changes, and volcanic activity. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the highlands (vedur.is). Road conditions are tracked at road.is. The emergency number is 112.
Tipping: Not customary in Iceland. Service staff are paid properly. You won't cause offence by not tipping.