From the moment you get off of the plane, Reykjavík looks like an otherworldly location. The landscape is a patchwork of blues, greens, and greys. You might see the sun shining brightly into the wee hours of the night. Iceland is an exceptional place in all regards.
To complement this unique experience, Reykjavík is a hub for excellent art, cuisine, architecture, and culture. Visit this timeless city for a once-in-a-lifetime trip to a Nordic land of adventure and mystery.
Reykjavík Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
Do I need travel medical insurance for Reykjavík?
If you need a Schengen visa to enter Iceland as a tourist, having compliant travel medical insurance is a prerequisite for getting that visa.
If you are allowed visa-free travel to Iceland, travel medical insurance is optional for you, but it is highly recommended, as we will explain.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Reykjavík?
An outdoorsy vacation in the rough terrain of Reykjavík could potentially lead to health complications. For instance, most people from tropical and subtropical climates complain of intolerance to the extreme cold. Besides, while embarking on adventure activities like hiking, skiing, and open-water swimming, you should be prepared for the risk of accidents and injuries.
Accessing private medical care in Iceland can be a massive burden on the wallet. Before you know it, your hospital bills could quickly add up to more than you can afford.
With a travel medical insurance plan, you can be covered for the financial burden of hospitalization, emergency care, medicines, and more in accordance with the policy you’ve purchased. Buy the right travel medical insurance and enjoy a stress-free holiday in the icy wonderland of Reykjavík.
Things to Do for Travelers in Reykjavík
Catch the Aurora Borealis
Of all the world’s natural wonders, the northern lights are perhaps the most awe-inspiring and magical. The night sky shining in magnificent shades of gold and emerald is truly breathtaking. September to April is the best time to catch the aurora borealis in Reykjavik.
Take a dip in the Blue Lagoon
Pristine blue waters, an envelope of hot steam, and a breathtaking view. Blue Lagoon will blow you away. It is a geothermal mineral spa situated right in the heart of the city. Take a dip in its healing waters and transport yourself to a calmer headspace instantly.
Shop to your heart’s content at Laugavegur
Laugavegur is one of Reykjavik's biggest and oldest streets. It is lined with hundreds of boutiques, souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants. Don’t miss the cheese trucks loaded with an endless variety of local fare. This is an ideal location to spend a relaxed day strolling, shopping, and sampling new cuisine.
Visit the spellbinding Hallgsimskirkja
Hallgsimskirkja is Reykjavík's highest point, and towers over the landscape. The church is an architectural marvel with its crown-shaped peak and column structure. Listening to a choir while overlooking the dozens of fjords is a genuinely heavenly feeling.
Marvel at Harpa
Situated on a stunning blue lake, the glass cube of the concert hall stands like an eccentric, yet marvelous attraction. Its modern architecture and unique use of shapes and reflections make it Reykjavík’s most recognizable building. It is booked throughout the year for dozens of art shows, orchestra performances, and jazz festivals.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Reykjavík
Best time to visit
The summer in Reykjavík is a wondrous time. The city comes alive with local markets, open-air concerts, and theatre productions running from June to August. The average temperature is around 22 degrees Celsius, and you can expect the “midnight sun,” i.e., almost 21 hours of sunlight.
The winter from October to February is a lot less forgiving, with subzero temperatures and snowfall throughout. Those susceptible to the extreme cold should take careful precautions during this time.
Adventure activities like hiking, swimming, and camping
While the outskirts of Reykjavík are a nature-lover’s paradise, you should follow safety precautions to the T. Tourists unfamiliar with the area could quickly lose their way in the intimidating landscape while hiking or biking. Hence, we recommend charting out your route in advance and keeping emergency contacts handy at all times.
Pack for the cold
Regardless of the season of your trip, be prepared for sudden cold spells and unexpected showers. Pack sufficient winter clothes like a heavy jacket, thermal base layers, and sturdy boots.
Getting around the city
Renting a car is the most comfortable and economical way to get around the city. It is also ideal for traveling outside the city through the hills and rolling fjords. You should reserve a vehicle if you visit in the summer, because most rental companies get booked out very soon.
Making payments
You will find that most establishments in Reykjavík are card-friendly. In fact, local stores may encourage you to pay with a credit card rather than cash. Remember that Iceland is one of the most expensive countries in Europe, so plan your budget accordingly.
Before You Travel to Reykjavík - Do This
- Get a medical checkup. Visit your family doctor and learn about the health risks of polar weather. We suggest that you get a full-body checkup before arriving in Iceland.
- Secure your personal documents. Create a cloud-protected backup of all your important documents like your passport, visa, driver’s license, and health insurance card. Keep it easily accessible for emergency use.
- Get insurance. Research the risks associated with your stay in Reykjavík, and pick the best travel medical insurance for your needs.