Find and Book Cheap Flights to Iceland for Your Next Nordic Adventure

Winter is the prime time for aurora hunting and exploring ice caves. Prices are lower, but weather can be unpredictable.

Spring brings longer days and the return of puffins. It is a great shoulder season for finding budget deals.

Summer offers 24-hour daylight and access to the highlands. This is the peak season for hiking and festivals.

September and October offer beautiful autumn foliage and the first glimpses of the Northern Lights without winter's bite.

Renting a car is the most popular way to see Iceland, especially if you want to explore beyond Reykjavik. For the Ring Road, a standard car is fine in summer, but a 4x4 is essential for the highlands or winter travel. Be aware that fuel is expensive compared to the UK. If you aren't driving, the Flybus is a reliable way to get from Keflavik Airport to the city. There are no trains in Iceland, so public buses or organized tours are your alternatives. Always check road conditions on the official Vegagerðin website before heading out, as weather changes rapidly.

Iceland offers everything from luxury hotels in Reykjavik to remote guesthouses and campsites. During peak summer, accommodation fills up months in advance, so early booking is vital. For budget travelers, hostels are high-quality, and camping is a viable option with a 'Camping Card' which grants access to numerous sites. Guesthouses often provide a more local experience and include breakfast. If you are traveling in a group, renting a cabin in the countryside can be cost-effective. Note that many rural accommodations use geothermal heating, so you will never be cold indoors even in the depths of winter.

Icelanders are generally reserved but friendly. A crucial cultural rule involves the local swimming pools: you must shower thoroughly without a swimsuit before entering the water. This is strictly enforced for hygiene. Tipping is not expected in Iceland, as service charges are included in the bill. Environmental protection is taken very seriously; never walk on the fragile moss, as it takes decades to recover. When it comes to language, almost everyone speaks excellent English, but learning a few Icelandic words like 'Takk' (Thank you) is always appreciated. Lastly, always respect the power of nature and stay behind safety barriers at waterfalls.

Dining out in Iceland is expensive. To save money, shop at budget supermarkets like Bónus or Krónan. Local specialties include fresh Icelandic lamb, langoustine, and the famous 'Pylsur' (hot dog), which is the most affordable meal in the country. Don't buy bottled water; the tap water in Iceland is among the purest in the world and completely free. For a unique experience, try 'Skyr', a traditional yogurt-like dairy product. If you are adventurous, you can find fermented shark, though it's more of a novelty for tourists than a daily staple for locals. Most restaurants focus on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.