Iceland – A Quick & Quirky Guide
Official name: Republic of Iceland (Lýðveldið Ísland)
Area: ~103,000 km² – volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, and lava fields
Population: ~380,000 (2024)
Location: North Atlantic Ocean, between Greenland and Norway
Form of government: Parliamentary republic
Head of State: President Guðni Th. Jóhannesson
Head of Government: Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir
Capital city: Reykjavík – ~140,000 (metro ~233,000)
Time zone: Greenwich Mean Time (UTC+0 / +1 in summer)
Official language: Icelandic
Currency: Icelandic króna (ISK)
EU member: No
Schengen area: Yes
Top 5 Largest Cities (population approx.)
- Reykjavík – ~140,000
- Kopavogur – ~38,000
- Hafnarfjörður – ~30,000
- Akureyri – ~20,000
- Reykjanesbær – ~18,000
Note: Iceland is sparsely populated, so most people live along the southwest coast.
Popular Tourist Cities & Regions
- Reykjavík: Harpa Concert Hall, colorful streets, museums, and vibrant cafés.
- Golden Circle: Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park.
- Blue Lagoon: Geothermal spa near Reykjavík.
- Vatnajökull National Park: Glaciers, ice caves, and stunning landscapes.
- Akureyri: “Capital of the North,” fjords, and winter sports.
- Westfjords: Remote cliffs, wildlife, and dramatic scenery.
Climate
Subarctic/maritime: cool summers (10–15 °C), mild winters (–1 to 4 °C), and unpredictable weather. Layers, waterproof jackets, and sturdy shoes are essential. Bonus: enjoy long summer days or the northern lights in winter!
Culture & Daily Life
- Outdoor lifestyle: Hiking, whale-watching, and hot springs are national pastimes.
- Literature & sagas: Ancient Viking stories are everywhere.
- Friendly locals: Welcoming, laid-back, and fond of coffee.
- Festivals: Music, arts, and cultural events fill long summer days.
Food & Drink
- Classic dishes: Lamb, fresh seafood, skyr (yogurt-style dairy), and rye bread.
- Pastries & desserts: Kleinur (twisted doughnuts), laufabrauð (leaf bread), and cakes.
- Beverages: Coffee, craft beers, and Icelandic schnapps.
- Street food: Hot dogs in Reykjavík are surprisingly legendary.
Summary
Iceland is a land of fire, ice, and jaw-dropping scenery. Reykjavík buzzes with culture, the Golden Circle dazzles with natural wonders, and glaciers, volcanoes, and fjords offer adventure at every turn. Friendly locals, hearty food, and dramatic landscapes make Iceland a truly unforgettable Northern European destination.