PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Climate
The average temperature in the warmest month of July is about 12°C / 54°F and in the coldest month of January about 0°C / 32°F. It is usually considerably colder in the mountains and extreme North. The weather can change very abruptly and sometimes you can experience all weather conditions during the same day. We highly recommend that you bring wind- and waterproof outer clothing. With other clothing, think in layers, being able to keep warm when it is cold, peeling off the layers when it is warm out.
Transportation to and from the International Airport
The least expensive means of transport is the Fly Bus operated for departures and arrivals of each flight. Taxis stand in line in front of the arrival terminal.
Driving
Driving in Iceland is on the right-hand side of the road. A switchover from left-hand driving took place in 1968. Road signals follow the international pattern.
Time
GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) is a constant in Iceland the whole year round.
Emergency
The emergency telephone number in Iceland is 112.
Icelandic Currency
One króna is the monetary unit. Coin denominations are: 1, 5, 10, 50, and 100 krónur. Banknotes: 500, 1000, 5000 and 10000 krónur.
Credit cards / Debit cards
VISA and MasterCard credit cards are widely accepted in Iceland, while American Express and Discover are not. Electron and Maestro are the most accepted debit cards.
Banks and ATM´s
Banks in Iceland are generally open on weekdays from 09.00 – 16.00 (9 am – 4 pm) where currency exchange is available. ATM´s are quite spread over the country and require your PIN code.
Media
There is a great variety of radio stations to choose from and a few domestic television channels. Many hotels and accommodations also offer satellite connections. An amazingly great number of newspapers are published in Iceland and foreign newspapers are available newspaper stands and bookstores.
Tax Free Shopping
Purchase amount must be ISK 6.000. – or more (VAT 24% included) on one sales slip. The refund is approx. 14% of the total amount. Shops offering tax-free conditions are clearly marked.
Medical Services
Citizens of Scandinavia must show valid medical insurance and passport in case of a medical emergency. Citizens of EEA countries must have the E-111 form, or they will be charged in full. The medical services in Iceland rank among the best in the world and are rendered all over the country. Inoculations are not required, except for those who arrive from areas infested with infectious diseases such as cholera, smallpox, yellow fever etc.
Electricity
In Iceland, the electricity is 220 volts, 50Hz, AC.