last edited Dec 11, 2019
Other Practical Information for Iceland
Location Map of Iceland
Iceland
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Baggage and Equipment to Bring
For equipment, plan for mid-season clothing in summer, including woolen layers, windbreakers, and rain gear. In winter, pack warm clothes. Also bring good hiking shoes and appropriate gear if you plan to hike independently. Don’t forget your swimsuit for bathing in the developed hot springs. Finally, camping gear, a sleeping bag (useful even in solid accommodations), and a small cooking kit can help you stay self-sufficient and save money given the cost of living.
Communications
Phone
International dialing code: (00 +) 354.
European mobile phones work without issue in Iceland, as the country follows the same standards as the rest of Europe. Alternatively, you can rent a phone locally for the duration of your stay.
Internet
Wi-Fi (often free) is widely available across the country. However, since Icelanders are highly equipped with computers and internet access, cybercafés are rare. Instead, you’ll find more or less paid internet kiosks in some public places or accommodations.
Postal Service
Post offices can be found in major towns. They are typically open Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with some in the capital also open on weekends.
Time Difference
Local time: .
Iceland is on GMT. This means it is 1 hour behind France in winter and 2 hours behind in summer.
Electricity
230 V (50 Hz) with "French" plugs (officially type F), which will require an adapter for North American plugs.
Business Hours
Office hours are generally from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays. Shops are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Monday to Friday, and some open from 10:00 AM until early afternoon on Saturdays. A few supermarkets stay open until 11:00 PM every day, and some in the capital are open 24/7. Banks are open Monday to Friday from 9:15 AM to 4:00 PM.
Laundry
There are no public laundromats in Iceland. However, most youth hostels and campgrounds have washing machines and dryers, usually for a fee.
Local Tourist Offices
Weights and Measures
Iceland uses the metric system, like France.
French Language Use
Icelanders are polyglots. In addition to their native language, 85% speak English, and 75% speak Danish. French and German are also taught in schools, and Polish is spoken by the Polish minority, which makes up about 2.5% of the population. While you might occasionally find French speakers, it’s best to have some English basics to travel without language difficulties in the country.