Iceland Travel Guide

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Shopping

Fluffy, earth-colored Lopi wool blankets and coats, jackets, hats and handknits are synonymous with Iceland. Several local potters handthrow earthenware containers in natural colors. Crushed lava is a common addition to highly glazed ceramic pieces, which are popular as souvenirs. The duty-free shop at Keflavík Airport sells all of these products.

Laugavegur is Reykjavík's main shopping street. The shops along Skolavordustigur are good for art lovers. Kringlan is Reykjavík's world-class shopping mall. Bargain hunters should visit the indoor Kolaportid market in Reykjavík, held every weekend, where great buys on handmade Icelandic jumpers, food and toys can be found.

Shopping hours: Mon-Fri 0900-1800; Sat from 1000-1300/1400/1500 or 1600. Most shops close on Sundays, and many shops also close on Saturdays during the summer (Jun-Aug). Some supermarkets are open seven days a week until 2300.

Currency

Icelandic krona (ISK; symbol kr) = 100 aurar. Notes are in denominations of kr5,000, 2,000, 1,000 and 500. Coins are in denominations of kr100, 50, 10, 5 and 1.

Currency Exchange

Foreign currencies can be exchanged in all major banks. Most hotels also provide their guests with exchange services.

Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and ATMs

American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted. ATMs are available throughout the country.

Travelers Checks

Widely used. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take traveler's checks in US Dollars.

Currency Restrictions

There are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency.

Banking Hours

Mon-Fri 0915-1600.

Exchange Rate