Iceland
History
Settlement began the permanent human story of Iceland.
The Althing was founded at Thingvellir, beginning the Commonwealth.
The Old Covenant brought Iceland under the Norwegian crown.
Iceland passed with Norway into the Kalmar Union.
Iceland came under Danish rule as the Kalmar Union broke up.
Ceded to Denmark changed control of the territory.
Denmark granted Iceland a constitution and limited home rule.
Extended home rule placed the territory under outside administration.
Part ofEuropeMore countries, cities and routes.Short facts
RegionNorthern Europe / Nordic
LanguageIcelandic
Time zoneGMT (UTC+0)
Drives onRight
Worth seeing
- Northern Lights: Long winter nights and low light pollution offer spectacular aurora displays.
- Geysers and Hot Springs: Strokkur erupts every few minutes; the Blue Lagoon is a geothermal icon.
- Midnight Sun: Summer days are virtually endless, with 24-hour daylight in June.
Find a city in Iceland
Showing all cities
Reykjavík
Akureyri
Selfoss
Húsavík
ÍsafjörðurPlanning questions
What is Iceland known for?Northern Lights, Geysers and Hot Springs, Midnight Sun.
What is the capital?Reykjavik.
Which language is useful?Icelandic.
When is the national day?17 June.
Upcoming events
Iceland National Day17 Jun 2026 · IcelandUse Reykjavík as the first planning anchor for Iceland, then compare the city, food and worth-seeing notes on this page.
Food & drink
Lamb soup
Skyr drinkKnown for
Northern LightsLong winter nightsGeysers and Hot SpringsMidnight SunCapital cityLocal food
Alpine Skiing