Culture & Traditions

Despite a population of just 380,000, the number of museums and art galleries in the country is impressive. Cities, towns, and fishing villages alike have public places dedicated to art and heritage. Reykjavik has a thriving art, music, and theater scene. The Iceland Symphony Orchestra's cultural season begins in fall, and gives about 60 performances, including classical concerts and contemporary music.

The National Theater and Reykjavik City Theater have two full time companies that perform year-round. Major festivals include the Reykjavik Arts festival, featuring exhibitions, performances, and installations by local and international artists, Iceland Airwaves, a famous music festival showcasing Icelandic and international musicians, and Secret Solstice, a music and culture festival held under the Midnight Sun.

Iceland has many unique customs, including Bondadagur or Husband's Day that celebrates husbands and male partners, including boyfriends or fiances. It is one of the world's most feminist countries and has the smallest overall gender gap.

What is the visiting etiquette in Iceland?

The people of Iceland are considered to be friendly and courteous. When greeting someone in Iceland, it is appropriate to start with a handshake and address them by their first name, no formal titles are needed. Any type of hug or kiss are reserved for only family and close friends. Punctuality is valued in Iceland, so make certain you are conscious of time in meeting people, restaurant reservations, or attending tours. If you’ve been invited to visit someone’s home, it is customary to remove your outdoor shoes and leave them in the hall or at the door.

What is Iceland best known for?

Iceland’s striking natural landscapes scattered with Iceland volcanoes and glacial terrain have earned it its nickname land of fire and ice. Whether visiting an explosive geyser launching boiling water into chilly air or hiking to a glacier fed waterfall, there are non-stop scenic attractions to check out. The Icelandic people seek to be stewards of the land and have a strong connection to nature. They honour the land by treading lightly, ensuring to stay on paths already travelled. To prevent damage to the fragile landscape, exclusively use designated roads and respect any closures. It can be thrilling to spot wildlife such as Icelandic horses, whales, puffins, and sheep, but be sure to not disturb them and keep your distance. And when exploring Iceland’s nature be mindful of your garbage, littering is frowned upon.

In each corner of Iceland, there is a geothermal hot spring waiting for you to soak in! The warm revitalizing waters are filtered through volcanic lava rocks and filled with rich minerals. Whether you visit the famous Blue Lagoon outside Reykjavik, or the Forest Lagoon by Akureyri, it is of utmost importance to fully shower with soap before entering the water. This is taken seriously to keep everything clean, as many pools are treated with chemicals minimally.

What are some Icelandic traditions?

The ancient Viking heritage and modern Nordic influences have shaped the identity and traditions of Iceland. Icelanders treasure their epic literary sagas that recount the adventures of the Icelandic people during the Viking Age, offering glimpses into the beliefs, struggles, and triumphs of the early settlers. They continue to be preserved in modern day Iceland, passed down from generations during festivals and storytelling. The medieval sagas appeared in the 13th and 14th centuries, which are considered the golden age of Icelandic literature.

In the Nordic winter months Þorri (January and February), Þorrablót (Thorrablót) is commemorated. Families get together to toast to the gods, and enjoy a traditionally prepared feast with somewhat unusual delicacies that are dried, pickled and heavy on salt. The selection of food is a nod to the past, when winter’s darkness led to seeking sustenance due to low food sources. Highlights include cured ram's testicles, fermented shark, and boiled sheep’s head. Don’t hold back, there are a handful of restaurants around Iceland where you too can dine on a Þorrablót menu!

Summer solstice, called Sumarsólstöður in Iceland, is marked by extended sun filled days (only about a 4-hour long night!) that have historically held significant cultural importance. Traditional celebrations honour the power of the sun and associated folklore. You can even join in on public bonfires with storytelling, and folk musicians playing traditional Icelandic instruments such as the langspil and fiðla.

What are the Icelandic like socially?

The Icelandic people are known to be accommodating and hospitable to travellers, especially as recent years have seen an influx of visitors to Iceland. Most locals enjoy speaking with visitors, and willingly switch to fluent English to easily converse. If chatting with a local, the topic of weather often comes up, but try not to be negative about the weather, you might be told to áfram með smjörið, which translates to "on with the butter," or just get on with it! They are passionate about their island, and proud of what their country has to offer.

In social settings, Icelanders are said to be somewhat reserved, but also don’t take themselves too seriously. They enjoy dry humour and witty jokes, which can sometimes confound those not familiar. To avoid offending Icelanders, steer clear of any sensitive topics and maintain a neutral stance on any potentially polarizing political themes. They also appreciate their personal space, so be sure not to stand too close whether you are chatting or in a public space.

What language do Icelandic people speak?

Icelandic is the official language of Iceland. The Icelandic language has been passed down through generations, nearly unchanged since its medieval times. Linguistically, it’s considered one of the most difficult languages in the world to learn. Over 95% of Icelanders speak English fluently. The Icelandic people celebrate their native language, and actively work to preserve it, even celebrating annually with Icelandic Language Day!