Learn about this magical Nordic country with our quick and handy A-Z guide to Iceland – it’s as easy as A, B, C!

Aurora borealis. AKA, the Northern Lights. If you’re wanting to catch a glimpse of this magical light show, this is one of the best spots in the world. The best time to visit is between September and April.

Blue Lagoon. Welcome to one of the most popular attractions across the country. This stunning spa is a geothermal wonder, renowned for its unique, milky-blue waters and therapeutic properties. Sink into pure natural bliss among its volcanic surroundings.

Cheers! The Icelandic version is ‘skál’.

Deildartunguhver. This is one of the most powerful hot springs across all of Europe and the steam coming off it can be seen from really far away! Due to its extremely high temperatures, it’s for viewing only.

Eat all the best local cuisine. We’re talking monkfish, lamb, rye bread, and more. Not forgetting this next one...

Fermented shark. Love it or hate it, fermented shark, AKA Hákarl, is the national dish of Iceland.

Golden Circle. This fascinating tour will take you to Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area and Gullfoss waterfall.

Hallgrimskirkja. This iconic Lutheran church in Reykjavík is known for its unique modernist design and commanding presence in the city's skyline.

Ice cream. Even in the middle of winter, you’ll see plenty of locals queuing up for a scoop or two. Why not try the local stuff for yourself?

Jumpers. Pick up a traditional Icelandic jumper with a cute Scandi design to keep you cosy.

Króna. The currency of Iceland.

Language. The Icelandic language is widely considered to be one of the most difficult to learn in the world!

Michelin stars. Six out of Iceland’s seven Michelin-recommended restaurants can be found in Reykjavík. And two of them have the coveted star. The esteemed Dill restaurant was the first in the country to receive this award.

Norse mythology. Locals used to use these myths and legends to explain the stunning natural beauty that covers the country.

Orca whales. Keep your eyes peeled as you might spot these underwater giants just off the coast!

Puffins. The best time to see these feathered friends is in summer, between May and August. There are two small, uninhabited islands just off the coast of Reykjavík which are home to a large puffin colony. Hop on a boat from the city centre and you can be there in minutes.

Quiet time. Iceland remains the most peaceful country in the world, according to the 2023 Global Peace Index. It’s held this accolade for 17 years!

Reykjavík. Welcome to Iceland’s cool and colourful capital that features a rainbow-coloured Old Town and a whole host of varied attractions.

Sun Voyager. AKA Sólfarið, this striking sculpture on Reykjavík's waterfront resembles a sleek Viking ship and symbolises the nation’s spirit of exploration and discovery.

Thingvellir National Park. Travel 45 minutes out of Reykjavík to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you can walk between two tectonic plates! It’s a truly unique experience that you can’t have anywhere else in the world.

Unique wildlife. This includes the Arctic fox, the Icelandic horse and the Icelandic sheepdog.

Volcanoes. There are around 130 volcanoes dotted across the island. The most recent eruption happened at Litli-hrútur in 2023. If you plan on viewing any of the volcanoes, keep up to date with local news and always travel with an expert guide.

Waterfalls. You’ll find more than 10,000 of these here.

Xmas. There are lots of unique Icelandic Christmas traditions, but one of the best is that they don’t have Santa Claus. Instead, they have ‘Jólasveinar’, which is a group of 13 ‘Christmas lads’ who each have a unique personality trait.

Yoghurt. Skyr originates from here and it’s extra tasty when you enjoy it freshly made!

Zzz. You might need to adjust your sleeping pattern to the daylight hours in Iceland. In summer, they see around 20 hours of daylight and in winter, it can be as little as five.