How Much Do Trips To Iceland Cost?

Iceland offers a variety of day tours, including the Golden Circle, Kerid Volcanic Crater, and Blue Lagoon day trip from Reykjavik. These tours provide an affordable way to experience the stunning Northern Lights display and explore the Golden Circle and South Coast. Some excursions last a full day, while others last two hours or less. Some tours include whale watching, exploring an ice cave, seeing the Northern Lights, or simply enjoying the city’s culinary scene.

The length of a day tour in Iceland depends on the type of tour booked, with some lasting two hours or less. For example, a three-day excursion from Reykjavik can take you to the Golden Circle, Jökulsárlón, Europe’s largest glacier, and its ice cave. Tours to Iceland range in price from $0 to $19,249, with guided, organized, and all-inclusive options starting at around US$65 per person.

For larger groups, tours can be more expensive, with prices starting at US$100 and up for longer itineraries. Reykjavik Shore excursions are also available, with tours such as the Golden Circle and Friðheimar Greenhouse starting at 11,599 USD, and volcanoes and the Blue Lagoon starting at 29,499 USD.

Gray Line’s day tours cater to the needs of individuals, offering unforgettable experiences and airport transfers starting at $1200 USD. With knowledgeable guides, Gray Line is confident that the best way to experience Iceland is through a private trip tailored to individual needs.


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Are guided tours in Iceland worth it?

Iceland offers a variety of activities, including whale-watching, glacier hiking, ice cave visits, snowmobile rides, ATVs, and horseback riding. Guided tours are recommended for specific activities like whale-watching, glacier hiking, and horseback riding. These tours are generally high-quality with knowledgeable local guides, but they may not be affordable.

If you prefer to explore independently, you can rent a car in Iceland, as the country’s main roads are paved and well-maintained. However, winter driving can be challenging due to icy and snowy conditions. Therefore, it’s essential to choose the right tour based on your budget and preferences.

Is eating out in Iceland expensive?

Iceland’s dining scene is characterized by high prices, with an average plate costing between 15-40 USD. Locals consider restaurant dining a treat, so frequent dining out may be expensive. Instead, plan for one or two special occasions to enjoy a unique and quality experience. Affordable grocery options like pizza, burgers, and sandwiches can save on dining out. Reykjavik’s casual dining falls within the same price range as refined dining, with pizza typically costing 15-20 USD, similar to a meal at a nice restaurant.

How much is a pizza in Iceland?
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How much is a pizza in Iceland?

Dominico’s Pizza is Iceland’s most popular fast food chain, offering a variety of pizza sizes and soda options. The popular 2 for 1 deal requires buying breadsticks with the order. Pósthús Food Hall and Bar offers a main course for around 3490 ISK (23 EUR/25 USD), such as a sushi poké bowl. Forréttabarinn, a popular restaurant in Reykjavík, offers a range of appetisers and desserts, featuring fresh local ingredients with South European influences.

The menu includes a variety of vegetarian dishes and a choice of four-course set meals. Classic appetisers cost 2250 ISK (15 EUR/16 USD), while grand appetisers cost 3550 ISK (24 EUR/26 USD). Small beers on tap cost 1200 ISK (8 EUR/9 USD) and large ones (half litre) 1600 ISK (11 EUR/12 USD).

How much do I need per day in Iceland?
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How much do I need per day in Iceland?

Iceland is a land of fire and ice, offering visitors an abundance of natural beauty and quality experiences. The local currency is Icelandic Krona (ISK), and the country is known for its diverse landscapes and cuisine. The eclectic capital of Reykjavik, home to over 50 bars and a great foodie scene, offers a variety of options for visitors. The country’s diet is similar to that of the original settlers over 1, 000 years ago, combining the best of fresh ingredients.

A three-course meal for two people in a mid-range Icelandic restaurant costs around £80. To fully enjoy Iceland, it is essential to plan your trip well and consider the abundance of activities and natural resources available.

Are tours in Iceland expensive?

Tour costs in Iceland range from $80 to $150 per person per day, depending on the tour’s complexity and exclusivity. Independent travel offers local expertise, convenience, and a personalized experience. It allows for flexibility and the freedom to explore at your own pace, allowing you to linger at attractions you love and explore those you don’t. Costs may vary depending on your choices, such as hiring a car, staying in a hostel, and cooking your own food. Overall, independent travel in Iceland offers a unique and cost-effective experience.

Why is Iceland so expensive?
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Why is Iceland so expensive?

Iceland’s high prices are attributed to factors such as a small market, oligopoly, high reliance on imports, geographical isolation, and high import taxes and tolls. However, Iceland’s energy sector, including electricity, water, and geothermal power, is relatively cheap, providing an advantage during the global energy crisis. The country’s geography necessitates most goods being imported, with only a few companies handling imports. The air cargo transport industry also has limited competition, and harsh weather conditions in winter can negatively impact transportation.

The oligopoly across sectors is evident in Icelandic grocery stores, gas stations, and other businesses, with Hagar and Festi being the main competitors. This oligopoly also affects the cost of living in Iceland.

Why is Iceland so expensive to visit?
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Why is Iceland so expensive to visit?

Iceland is relatively expensive compared to other countries, but its average salary is higher due to factors such as a small market, oligopoly, high reliance on imports, geographical isolation, and high import taxes and tolls. However, Iceland’s energy sector, including electricity, water, and geothermal power, is relatively cheap, which is advantageous during the global energy crisis.

Iceland’s geography means most goods are imported, and products need to be transported on container ships or air. The small market has a few companies handling imports, while shipping and air cargo transport have limited competition. The harsh winter weather can negatively impact transportation.

Oligopoly is a wide-ranging issue across sectors, with most Icelandic grocery stores run by Hagar and Festi, with American Costco as their main competitor. The same companies own most gas stations, with Costco running one station, which is the cheapest alternative for car owners.

How much money is required to visit Iceland?
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How much money is required to visit Iceland?

Iceland trips from India can cost between Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 3 lakh or more, depending on the duration of stay and travel style. The cost of Iceland trips from India depends on factors such as the time of year, duration of the trip, number of people traveling, and luxury level. Typically, airfare is the most significant expense, with the average cost of a round-trip flight from India to Iceland ranging from Rs. 50, 000 to Rs. 1, 00, 000. Accommodations can also be expensive, with hotel rates starting at around Rs.

7, 000 per night. Other expenses such as food, transportation, and activities can add up quickly, further increasing the total cost of the trip. Personal loans offer a solution for those looking to finance their dream trip to Iceland, covering everything from flights to accommodation, making it easier to plan your itinerary without worrying about finances.

Is Iceland a cheap or an expensive holiday destination?

Iceland is a costly country to visit, but it doesn’t deter visitors. As long as you budget and plan in advance, and cook your own meals instead of eating out daily, you can enjoy the experience. Meals in Iceland typically cost around 690 ISK (approximately 5 Euros) for a traditional Icelandic hotdog. However, if you’re traveling around the country, cooking your own meals can be a more affordable option.

How much does an average trip to Iceland cost?
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How much does an average trip to Iceland cost?

Iceland’s average trip costs between $300 and $400 per person per day, including flights, budget lodging, and guided group tours. This does not include car rentals or gas. To help you set realistic spending expectations for your Iceland travel budget, this travel cost breakdown is provided. The breakdown includes receipts from a 4-day trip and other fun facts. Although Iceland has a reputation for being expensive, if you plan and budget accordingly, you’ll have a blast visiting one of the world’s favorite places.

According to Numbeo’s Cost of Living Index by Country, Iceland is the sixth most expensive country, followed by the Bahamas, the U. S. Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Switzerland, and Bermuda. By planning and budgeting accordingly, you can enjoy a blast visiting Iceland, despite its reputation for being an expensive country.

Can I tour Iceland on my own?
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Can I tour Iceland on my own?

Iceland is a popular road trip destination, offering flexibility for those who prefer to explore at their own pace. A self-drive tour allows for a more personalized experience, allowing for stops and views to be taken in. This option is ideal for those who enjoy leisurely exploration or want to pack in as much sight-seeing as possible. For more information on visiting Iceland, visit the Iceland Travel Update page.


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How Much Do Trips To Iceland Cost?
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Debbie Green

I am a school teacher who was bitten by the travel bug many decades ago. My husband Billy has come along for the ride and now shares my dream to travel the world with our three children.The kids Pollyanna, 13, Cooper, 12 and Tommy 9 are in love with plane trips (thank goodness) and discovering new places, experiences and of course Disneyland.

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7 comments

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  • Great website Jeannie. I just got back from Iceland 2 days ago and it was an amazing experience. And I had an incredible thing happen to me. I’m a quarter Icelandic on my mom’s side. I visited the Emigration Center in Hofsós and discovered that I have living relatives in Iceland! We in Canada had no idea!! I got to meet my cousins in Reykjavik and it was great! There’s a lot more to this story, so I’m just giving the shortened version. But it was crazy!!

  • Hey Jeannie, I have your excellent self drive guide to the Highlands. What a fantastic read and brilliant planning aid! Love the fact you’ve plotted campsites around the island and the interior – with the all important toilets!! Can you drop in at these places to use the facilities without actually staying on the campsite?

  • I visited Heimey while in Iceland, and one thing I’d suggest is, unless you plan to take the ferry first thing in the morning, take your car. Heimey was not as walkable as I thought; I caught the 5 PM ferry and left my car on the mainland, thinking I could walk everywhere. Well, I was very wrong. I only had 3 hours before the last ferry of the day and it can take an hour just to walk to the puffin lookout alone. I had enough time to walk around “Pompey of the North” ( a big area ) and get supper at Tanginn before heading back. I was pretty bummed.

  • Hi Jeannie! Love all your articles. My husband and I always like getting advice from those who live where we will be travelling to! We kind of impulsively booked 5 days in Iceland during US Thanksgiving Holiday and so I am trying to put everything together! Since it is Winter we are doing day trips, so we don’t have to drive in ice and snow!

  • Hi Jeannie, My sister and I are planning a trip to Iceland in Dec. What is the road usually like to drive from Reykjavik to Gullfoss? We are supposed to meet up with a tour and be dropped off back in Gullfoss afterward. Any suggestions? I have watched many of your articles and find them very helpful! Thanks!

  • Hi Jeannie, I’ll be arriving in Iceland on July 19, there are a few touristy things I want to do…like atv tour during the midnite sun, Icelandic horseback riding, and whale & puffin perusal. Is it necessary to book these tours in advance or would I be ok to book once I arrive? And also, can you recommend tour companies for those tours?

  • Have you noticed that Icelandic words when spoken and when not seen in writing, makes it impossible for the listener from the US to figure out how it is written? If not, let me share this news with you. Your “Golden Circle Extended” mentions 3 names at the 2:43 mark without giving us the spelling. I cannot spell them thus I cannot look them up or visit them. With that, the gain by perusal this part of your article is gone.