Thanks to its stunning landscapes and unique fauna and flora, Iceland has become a bucket list destination for many avid travelers. The enticing beauty of its rigid nature, along with the hospitality of the locals, amazes many tourists who visit it for the first time. As a result, more and more people decide to add this beautiful island to their must-see lists.
If you count yourself among those who prepare to visit Europe’s second-largest island, we might have something just for you. Below, you will find a list of tips that can help you get the most out of your experience. Read on to learn more about the importance of knowing all major and lesser known tours and attractions, learning about its history, exploring the countryside, tasting traditional meals, and being prepared for all kinds of weather.
Find Out About Tours and Attractions
As you are planning your trip to Iceland, you should know about the must-see spots in this beautiful country. If you are planning to visit it in the summer season, you might want to take a look at the Golden Circle Iceland tour. It includes the Geysir geothermal area, the Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. You can also check out the South Coast, which is where you will find the Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon.
Learn About Iceland’s History
The Viking influence is still vivid in the island’s culture, so learning about its history is strongly recommended if you want to get to know Iceland better. You can start by checking out the Settlement Exhibition in Borgarnes. It takes you through the changes that occurred when the Vikings arrived in Iceland around 830 AD. The National Museum of Iceland in Reykjavik is another place where you can learn about everything that happened in this country over the last one thousand years.
Explore the Countryside
Iceland’s countryside is stunning, so you should definitely take the time to explore it if you plan to visit this location for the first time. As one of Europe’s most sparsely populated countries, its countryside will take your breath away with its beautiful landscapes and charming towns. You should also make sure to visit Hofsos, which is one of Iceland’s oldest farming settlements. Another place that you should not miss is Kerið Crater Lake, which was formed after a volcanic eruption some 1500 years ago. It is located near Reykjavik and is definitely a must-see spot for every tourist who visits Iceland.
Taste Traditional Meals
Although most restaurants offer a wide range of international dishes here, locals usually enjoy their traditional meals on special occasions or during holidays. You should try some of them, including hangikjöt (smoked lamb, mutton, or horse), svið (boiled sheep’s head), kleinur (twisted doughnut), and Icelandic fish. And who could ever forget about some skyr? This delicious yet healthy Icelandic yogurt is a real treat for all foodies!
Be Prepared for All Kinds of Weather
One of the things that make visiting Iceland unforgettable is its unique weather conditions. If you want to catch some of its most breathtaking landscapes, then you should go there during summertime. However, if you want to experience its northern lights phenomenon, wintertime is probably more suitable.
In any case, it’s vital to be prepared for all kinds of weather because you never know when it may change. For example, if you are planning to visit it in the summertime, make sure to pack warm clothes and rain gear because it may rain unexpectedly. As for wintertime, pack warm clothes and good hiking shoes because it may be freezing cold, and the roads could be slippery and unsafe for driving during this period.
Get Your Hands on Some Icelandic Currency
You should know that Iceland uses the Icelandic króna as its official currency. So before your trip to this European country, be sure to get your hands on some Icelandic cash as many stores and restaurants don’t accept foreign money. You can exchange your foreign currency for króna in major banks and post offices in Iceland.
Enjoy One of Iceland’s Hotpots
If you want to spend a relaxing evening during your trip to Iceland, then be sure to book a stay in one of its luxurious hotels and try one of its hotpots! They are usually located in the hotel bathrooms and contain water that reaches extremely high temperatures. The heat comes from volcanic activity underneath the island, which means that hotpots may not always be available. If they are, be sure to enjoy this experience while you can!
Learn a Few Icelandic Phrases
One of the best things about visiting Iceland is getting to know its people. If you want to make a good impression with them, then make sure to learn a few Icelandic phrases. A good idea would be to learn popular greetings and goodbyes.
Secure Transportation (and Information)
Conclusion
Iceland is a wonderful country that will leave no one indifferent. Its beauty and rigidness are like no other. If you have been planning to visit Europe’s second-largest island, then be sure to check out the tips above because they will come in handy.
Remember to learn about Iceland’s history and search for tours and attractions. Additionally, do not be afraid to get adventurous and explore the countryside. If you do so, you will be astonished by Iceland’s unforgettable beauty.
Iceland has become one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe and the world. And if you want to enjoy a truly unforgettable experience, we strongly recommend that you visit it as soon as possible. After all, everyone should experience its breathtaking landscapes at least once during their lifetime!
