Tourist Attractions & Monuments Iceland

Timetable

Generally speaking, schedules for activities and transport vary between high and low season. For example, the ferry to Viðey operates every day in summer, whereas it only runs at weekends in winter. Make sure you have the right timetable!

Museums and activities open late and close relatively early in Iceland, often from 10am to 5pm. There are exceptions, however, such as Perlan, which opens until 10pm. This limitation does not apply to natural sites, most of which are accessible day and night.

Similarly, opening times change frequently, and those shown in this guide are subject to change. We advise you to call or visit the websites of the establishments you "absolutely must" try out before going there. Don't hesitate to make reservations whenever possible.

To be booked

If you'd like to enjoy the Blue Lagoon and some of the thermal baths, you'll need to book your time slot in advance. Always check before you come and book as early as possible.

Most of the museums and sites we visit haveno gauge, so there's no need to book in advance. Similarly, you can easily book an excursion the day before for the next day, or even for the same day (e.g. Northern Lights hunt).

Budget & Tips

Many museums offer "several museums in one"passes , so you can pay less for your visits and discover a wider choice. Check out the museum or tourist office websites.

The Reykjavik City Card is the ideal wayto enjoy the capital ! By paying for 24h, 48h or 72h, you can take advantage of numerous benefits: free transport, museums and swimming pools in the capital, and reduced-rate activities.

Main events

Throughout the year, there are numerous cultural events of all kinds. February sees the Winter Lights Festival, accompanied by Museum Night and Pool Night. In November, the Iceland Airwaves festival takes place in the capital, featuring local and international stars.

The holiday season can be particularly enjoyable. During December, there are several Christmas markets in the capital and elsewhere. New Year's Eve is quite unique, with many private individuals setting off fireworks in the capital.

Smokers

Tobacco legislation is similar to that in France. Generally speaking, you will come across very few tobacconists in Iceland.

Please note that the legal drinking age in Iceland is 20. You can only buy alcohol (over 2.5%) in the state-run Vínbúðin stores, which offer a wide selection, including local Icelandic beers. These stores allow you to pack your purchases, which is generally advisable, as the consumption of alcohol in public places is forbidden. It is also forbidden to open a bottle of alcohol in the street.

Tourist traps

There are no tourist attractions to speak of in Iceland, even in the capital. It's worth bearing in mind, however, that tourism is having an ever-increasing impact, and some prices can be exaggerated.

What's very local

Many museums offer free checkrooms: a real asset for taking a load off in winter, for example.

In Iceland, you must shower naked before swimming in any pool, including thermal baths, as a matter of hygiene. This custom is taken very seriously by the locals and must be respected. Private cabins are sometimes available.