Reykjavik Iceland Travel Tips

Reykjavik, Iceland: Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips

As a responsible tourist, it’s essential to respect the local culture and environment when visiting Reykjavik, Iceland. Here are some key travel and cultural etiquette tips to help you navigate this unique and fascinating city:

Respect for Nature

  • Don’t litter: Icelanders take great pride in their pristine environment. Keep your trash with you until you find a bin.
  • Stay on marked paths: To avoid damaging the fragile ecosystem, stick to designated hiking trails and pathways.

Cultural Sensitivity

  • Dress modestly: When visiting churches or attending cultural events, dress conservatively to show respect for local customs.
  • Remove your shoes: In many Icelandic homes and some public buildings, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering. You’ll often see shoe racks by the entrance.

Social Etiquette

  • Greetings are casual: A simple “Halló” (HA-low) or “Hei” (HAY) is sufficient for a hello.
  • Personal space is valued: Icelanders tend to stand farther apart than people from other cultures. Respect their boundaries and avoid close proximity.

Dining Etiquette

  • Try traditional cuisine: Embrace the unique flavors of Icelandic dishes like Hákarl (fermented shark), Harðfiskur (dried fish), and Skyr (yogurt-like dairy product).
  • Don’t drink tap water in restaurants: While Iceland’s tap water is safe, it’s considered impolite to ask for it in a restaurant. Instead, order bottled water or other beverages.

Tipping Culture

  • Tipping is not expected but appreciated: In Iceland, tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% in restaurants and bars is considered polite.

General Tips

  • Learn some basic Icelandic phrases: Show respect for the language and culture by learning basic phrases like “Takk” (thank you) and “Fyndi” (excuse me).
  • Be prepared for variable weather: Reykjavik’s climate can be unpredictable. Pack layers, waterproof gear, and stay informed about weather conditions.

By following these simple etiquette tips, you’ll not only avoid unintentionally offending locals but also enrich your travel experience in Reykjavik, Iceland.