Travel tips

Are you planning on coming to Reykjavik Bear?

We can’t wait to see you!

Here are some travel tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Travel to Iceland

Iceland is an island in the North Atlantic Ocean, so ground travel isn’t an option. While ferries and cruises are available, we strongly recommend flying for convenience.

Many airlines offer flights to Iceland year-round. Icelandair and Play Air, our home airlines, provide extensive routes connecting North America and Europe. Icelandair’s famous “Iceland Stopover” allows travelers crossing the Atlantic to enjoy a stay of up to 7 days in Iceland at no additional airfare—an opportunity worth exploring!

The closest international airport to Reykjavik is Keflavik International Airport (KEF), located 45 km (27 miles) southwest of the city.

Visa requirements

Iceland is part of the European Economic Area (EEA) and the Schengen Area. Travelers within Schengen don’t require a passport, but carrying one is advisable.

If your country does not require a visa for Schengen states, you won’t need one to visit Iceland. However, starting in 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries outside the Schengen Area must apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) visa waiver before entering the Schengen Area, including Iceland. This includes countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, and others.

The ETIAS process is straightforward and can be completed online. For further details, visit the Directorate of Immigration’s website or the official ETIAS portal to confirm your requirements.

Arriving in Iceland

Upon landing at Keflavik Airport, you’ll pass through a duty-free store before reaching the baggage claim. If you plan to enjoy wine, beer, or spirits during your stay, stop here to save money—alcohol is heavily taxed in Iceland. Duty-free discounts also apply to cigarettes.

Keep in mind:

You’re allowed to bring one carton of cigarettes (200 cigarettes) or 250 grams of tobacco and up to 6 units of alcohol.
Use the duty-free calculator to ensure you’re within legal limits.
Duty-free staff are happy to assist with calculations and answer any questions about allowances, but ultimately, it is your responsibility to ensure that your purchases comply with customs regulations.
Exceeding these limits may result in confiscation and fines.

The legal drinking age in Iceland is 20, and smoking or vaping is prohibited for anyone under 18.

Traveling to and from the airport

Sadly, there is no Uber service in Iceland, therefore we recommend one of the following options to get to Reykjavik.

Shared Airport Transfers

Bus transfer services operate frequently, with travel times of 40–50 minutes to Reykjavik.

Flybus offers Reykjavik Bear guests a 10% discount using the code RVKBEAR25 on their on their website.

Public Transport

Strætó’s bus route 55 connects Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik. The journey takes approximately 80 minutes and costs around 2,400 ISK (~€16.50/~$17.00). Please note that bus route 55 does not operate in alignment with flight schedules, and tickets must be purchased on board. For schedules and route planning, visit bus.is.

Taxis

Although there is no Uber service in Iceland, you can use apps like Hreyfill to order taxis or book personalised guided tours. You can also book your airport transfer directly here. Additionally, the Hopp app functions similarly to Uber, allowing you to order a car and manage payment directly through the app. Many other taxi and ride services are also available in Iceland, giving travellers a variety of options to suit their needs. Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals hall at Keflavik Airport, with flat rates of approximately 20,000 ISK (~€137/~$142) for a small car (1–4 passengers) or 26,000 ISK (~€178/~$185) for a larger one (5–8 passengers). Prices vary by company, so it’s worth exploring different services for the best fit.

Accommodation

Reykjavik boasts a wide array of lodging options to suit all preferences and budgets, from luxurious hotels to cozy Airbnbs and vibrant MisterB&B accommodations. For the best experience, we highly recommend staying in the city center, where all Reykjavik Bear events take place or begin. Explore our curated recommendations on the our Hotels and offers page page to find the perfect place to stay.

Electricity

Iceland operates on 50 Hz/220 volts with Europlug sockets (types C and F), which are standard across Northern Europe. We recommend bringing a travel adapter for your devices, and if your appliances are not compatible with European voltage, consider a converter. While adapters are available at Keflavik Airport and local stores, purchasing them before your trip is often more affordable and convenient.

Getting Around Town

Reykjavik is compact and easy to navigate, offering a variety of active and convenient ways to get around. Options include:

Walking: Reykjavik’s city center is highly walkable, with many major attractions, restaurants, and shops located within short distances. Strolling through the charming streets is one of the best ways to take in the local atmosphere.

Cycling: The city offers bike-friendly paths, making cycling a great way to explore. Several rental shops provide bicycles and electric bikes, allowing you to cover more ground while enjoying the outdoors.

Scooters: Electric scooters are a fun and efficient way to navigate Reykjavik. Companies like Hopp provide scooters for rent through their app, with multiple drop-off points around the city.

Strætó Public Buses: Convenient routes and schedules make public buses a reliable option for exploring Reykjavik and its surrounding areas. Strætó buses now accept payment cards on board, simplifying travel for visitors. Details at bus.is.

Taxis: Several taxi services operate in Reykjavik, providing convenient transportation throughout the city. Hreyfill and BSR are two of the most reliable options, with services bookable via their respective apps. Additionally, taxis are readily available outside key locations like the BSÍ Bus Terminal and major hotels. Prices are metered, but flat rates are often used for airport transfers.

HOPP App: Similar to ride-share services, the Hopp app allows you to order a car and handle payment directly through the app. While costs are comparable to traditional taxis, it provides an added layer of convenience.

Reykjavik’s compact size and diverse transportation options make it easy for visitors to explore the city, whether you prefer active travel or a quick ride.

Shopping, food and alcohol

Iceland has earned a reputation for being an expensive destination. However, there are some tips that can help you plan your days in Iceland, and this applies to any budget.

Shop for groceries at Bónus or Krónan supermarkets, as they are the most affordable options for everyday items. Avoid pricier 24-hour convenience stores like 10-11, as they tend to charge much higher prices for the same goods. For a wider selection of items, you might also try Hagkaup, which is slightly more expensive but offers extended hours and specialty products

Alcohol is available only at Vínbúðin stores, which operate Monday to Saturday from 11am to 6pm, with extended hours until 7pm on Fridays. These stores are closed on Sundays. For those looking for beer in supermarkets, note that only light beers are sold and are legally considered non-alcoholic due to their low alcohol content. You can find Víbúðin locations here.

LGTBQIA+ rights, laws and public attitude

Iceland is among the most LGBTQIA+ friendly countries in the world and has comprehensive laws protecting the rights of queer individuals:

Legal Protections: Discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression is strictly prohibited in employment, services, and public life.
Marriage and Adoption: Same-sex marriage is fully legal, and couples, regardless of gender, can adopt children.
Assisted Reproductive Rights: Artificial insemination is accessible to all individuals and couples regardless of gender or sexual orientation, though surrogacy remains illegal.
Trans Rights: Trans individuals can change their name and gender marker without undergoing medical or surgical procedures. Iceland also supports gender confirmation processes for those who choose to pursue them.

Public Attitudes and Safety:

Icelandic society is generally open and accepting, making it a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers.
If you encounter discrimination or violence based on your identity, local police are supportive and responsive to such incidents.

Additional Legal and Social Points:

The age of consent in Iceland is 15, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. However, individuals do not reach legal adulthood until 18, so consent involving minors under 18 may still raise legal concerns.
Paying for sex is illegal in Iceland, although it is not a crime for individuals to charge for sex as long as they do not work collectively or under someone else’s management.
While Icelandic law does not currently provide specific international protection based solely on being LGBTQIA+, sexual orientation and gender identity are considered when granting asylum or other forms of international protection.

Support Services:

Samtökin ’78: Iceland’s national queer organisation provides support, resources, and a welcoming community for LGBTQIA+ individuals and visitors. They offer counselling, legal advice, and cultural events aimed at fostering inclusivity and understanding. Visit their website for more information or to seek support during your stay.
Icelandic society is generally open and accepting, making it a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers.

With its progressive stance and welcoming atmosphere, Iceland offers an inclusive environment for visitors from all walks of life.