23 COMMON QUESTIONS with answers about Iceland

26 Sep, 2023 by Helena-Reet Ennet

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NordenBladet – Iceland, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique culture, has long fascinated travelers from around the world. Whether you’re planning a trip to this captivating country or just curious about what makes Iceland so special, we’ve compiled a list of 23 common questions with answers,  to provide you with a comprehensive insight into Iceland.

1. Where is Iceland located?
Iceland is situated in the North Atlantic Ocean, between Greenland and Norway.

2. How big is Iceland?
Iceland covers an area of approximately 103,000 square kilometers (39,768 square miles).

3. What is the capital city of Iceland?
Reykjavik is the capital and largest city of Iceland. Reykjavík is the centre of Iceland’s cultural, economic, and governmental activity, and is a popular tourist destination among foreigners. It is among the cleanest, greenest, and safest cities in the world.

4. What is the official language of Iceland?
Icelandic is the official language of Iceland. Icelanders (Icelandic: Íslendingar) are an ethnic group and nation who are native to the island country of Iceland.

5. Is Iceland a part of the European Union?
No, Iceland is not a member of the European Union (EU). It is, however, a member of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA).

6. How many people live in Iceland?
Iceland population is approximately 356,991 people.

Siglufjörður, Iceland (Unsplash)

Þingvellir, Iceland (Unsplash)

Iceland (Unsplash)

7. What is the currency of Iceland?
The currency used in Iceland is the Icelandic Króna (ISK).

8. What is the weather like in Iceland?
Iceland has a subarctic climate characterized by cool summers and cold winters. It can experience rapid weather changes due to its proximity to the Arctic Circle.

9. Are there any active volcanoes in Iceland?
Yes, Iceland is home to numerous active volcanoes, including Eyjafjallajökull and Hekla.

10. Does Iceland have glaciers?
Yes, Iceland has several glaciers, including Vatnajökull (with older name Klofajökull), the largest glacier in Europe.

Iceland (Unsplash)

11. What is the Golden Circle in Iceland?
The Golden Circle (Icelandic: Gullni hringurinn) is a popular tourist route in Iceland, which includes three key attractions: Þingvellir National Park (anglicised as Thingvellir), Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss waterfall.

In article “WHAT IS The Golden Circle in Iceland?“, we’ll take you on a journey through the Golden Circle, revealing everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.

12. Can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland?
Yes, Iceland is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, during the winter months.

Northern Lights in Iceland (Unsplash)

18 common questions with answers: WHAT is Aurora Borealis? What causes the Northern Lights? Where is the best place to go and see the northern lights? Do the Northern Lights give off radiation? etc.

Nordic Wonders: HOW to get the most out of your next trip to Scandinavia

13. How do you travel around Iceland?
Travel around Iceland can be done by car, bus, or domestic flights. Many tourists choose to rent a car to explore the country at their own pace.

14. Are there any hot springs in Iceland?
Yes, Iceland is famous for its geothermal hot springs, including the Blue Lagoon (Icelandic: Bláa lónið) and numerous natural hot pools. The Blue Lagoon is approximately 20 km (12 mi) from Keflavík International Airport, and is one of the most visited attractions in Iceland.

The Blue Lagoon (2xUnsplash)

15. Is the tap water safe to drink in Icelandff?
Yes, tap water in Iceland is safe to drink and of high quality.

16. What are some traditional Icelandic dishes?
Traditional Icelandic dishes include hákarl (fermented shark), skyr (a type of yogurt), and lamb stew.

17. Is Iceland expensive for tourists?
Yes, Iceland is known for being relatively expensive for tourists, particularly in terms of food and accommodations.

18. Are there any puffins in Iceland?
Yes, Iceland is home to one of the world’s largest puffin populations, and you can often see them along the coast during the summer months.

Iceland: Lundey Island (Puffin) declared protected area in Iceland

19. What is the most common religion in Iceland?
The most common religion in Iceland is Lutheranism, with the Church of Iceland (Icelandic: Þjóðkirkjan) being the largest Christian denomination.

20. Are there any traditional Icelandic festivals?
Yes, Þorrablót (translated as thorrablot) is a traditional midwinter festival in Iceland where locals celebrate with traditional food and music. The Þorrablót is an evening with dinner where participants hold speeches and recite poems, originally to honour the Norse god Thor (Þórr), whose name is taken to be associated with Þorri. Calling the feast a blót (a sacramental feast held in honor of a god in Norse mythology) makes clear the reference to pre-Christian times, which many nationalists of the 19th century considered a golden age of Icelandic history.

21. What is the significance of Icelandic horses?
Icelandic horses (Icelandic: íslenski hesturinn) are a unique breed known for their strength, stamina, and five gaits. They have been a vital part of Icelandic culture for centuries.

Icelandic horses. Snaefellsnes, Iceland (Unsplash)

22. What is the population density in Iceland?
Iceland has a low population density, with around 3.3 people per square kilometer (8.6 people per square mile).

Reykjavík, Iceland (Unsplash)

Fjaðrárgljúfur, Iceland (Unsplash)

23. Can you visit ice caves in Iceland?
Yes, you can explore ice caves in Iceland, particularly in glacier regions like Vatnajökull. With an area of 7,900 km2, Vatnajökull is the second largest ice cap in Europe by volume (about 3,000 km3) and area (after the still larger Severny Island ice cap of Novaya Zemlya, Russia, which is in the extreme northeast of Europe). On 7 June 2008, it became a part of the Vatnajökull National Park.

Featured image: Reykjavík, Iceland (Unsplash)