Alexandra
Iceland's resident, publisher

Is Iceland expensive? How Much Does Iceland Cost?

If you're considering visiting Iceland, you might wonder: is Iceland expensive?

The short answer is yes, Iceland could be more expensive than many other destinations, but there are ways to make it more affordable. Let's look at typical hotels, gas, and food prices in Iceland.

Is Iceland expensive to visit?

Hotels: you can expect to pay around 100-200 USD per night in a guesthouse, 200-400 USD per night for a 3*-4* hotel, and upwards of 400 USD per night for a good 4* hotel.

In Iceland, no 5* hotels are available (only one or two). Of course, there are budget options available, such as hostels or camping, which can bring the cost down significantly.

is iceland expensive
South of Iceland in summer
source: Shutterstock

Food: the price range varies depending on where you choose to eat. Cooking your own meals after buying groceries, you can expect to pay a minimum of 100 USD per week per person. In restaurants, a basic meal will cost around 20-25 USD. In comparison, a fancy dinner at a high-end restaurant can easily cost over 100 USD per person.

how expensive is iceland

Svid – Sheep’s head (Icelandic traditional dish)

source: Shutterstock

Renting a car is a popular way to explore Iceland, and prices can start from 40-150 USD per day, depending on the type of car and the season. During June, July, and August, prices are higher. Remember, you must book a car at least 2 months before arrival. Gas and diesel prices are also high in Iceland, with an average cost of around 2 USD per liter.

Driving in summer Iceland
source: Shutterstock
If you would like to have a budget trip to Iceland - consider staying in budget accommodation, cooking your own meals, and sharing the cost of a rental car with friends to make your trip more affordable.

Conclusion
So, is Iceland expensive? Well, it can be more expensive than some other places, but there are ways to make it cheaper. You can save money by choosing cheaper places to stay, cooking your own food, and splitting costs with others. How much you spend really depends on what you like and how you like to travel.

Typical Prices for Accommodation, Food, and Car Rental in Iceland

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