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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

15 Best Books About Iceland To Read Before You Visit

April 26, 2022 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

Are you preparing for your Icelandic trip and wondering what books about Iceland you can read? We have you covered. In this article, we will walk you through travel books on Iceland, Icelandic novels, and the best books about Iceland.

Iceland publishes more books per capita than anywhere else in the world. Iceland has a long tradition of reading and is a very literary country. Books are traditionally given as presents and 1 in 10 Icelanders will publish a book. 

It’s not surprising really this majestic and magical country lends itself very well to tales, sagas, and mysteries. Any book with a majestic waterfall , lava landscape, black beaches , and dormant volcanoes is a hit in our eyes. 

In this list, we have included Iceland travel books some of the best Icelandic crime novels, and books set in Iceland. We particularly recommend reading the Hidden Iceland series. Surprisingly for a country with a low crime rate crime writers are extremely popular and loved worldwide. 

These no-fiction books will help you in planning your trip and the fiction books will give you a real feel of what this country is like. 

We hope you enjoy delving into this Icelandic literature and that you find a book that you enjoy.  

Are you ready to see which Icelandic literature we have chosen for you? Grab a hot drink, your coziest blanket, and let us walk you through the best Icelandic sagas, books to read before Iceland, and the best Icelandic crime novels.

The 10 Days In Iceland Guide

It seems only right that the first book we recommend is an incredible guide we have put together. If planning your Iceland vacation really does seem like too much then leave it to us.

Here all the research has been done for you. You have access to 3 customized 10-day Iceland itineraries with day-to-day instructions, Google Maps locations, and absolutely everything you will need to have a hassle-free vacation.

It’s like having your own personal tour guide along for the ride with you. Everything in this e-book is fully customizable and it helps you track your accommodation, finances, itinerary, and more.

This is more than a book here we hold your hand as you plan your dream Iceland getaway and you can ask us any question on our Facebook page as you are planning.

Click Here To Buy The 10 Days In Iceland Guide

Lonely Planet Iceland (Travel Guide)

This is one of the best Iceland books to buy in terms of planning your trip. The Lonely Planet Icleand is full of tips, inspiration, and information. These guides are always relevant and up to date and make a great companion for your I celandic travels .

This book walks you through the Blue Lagoon , the Northern Lights , and visiting a glacier plus much more. The book also contains colored maps, itinerary suggestions, ways to save money, essential information, and honest reviews.

This is one of the best travel books on Iceland and covers all the top sights as well as some that are off the beaten track. A great way for you to start planning your Icelandic adventure.

Click Here To Buy The Lonely Planet Iceland

The Hidden Iceland Trilogy: A Crime Story Told In reverse

Ragnar Jonasson has become one of the best Icelandic crime fiction writers. The Hidden Iceland trilogy follows Detective Inspector Hulda Hermannsdottir who is called in to solve the health of a young woman.

It’s a dark atmospheric thriller that is both bleak and captivating. The sparse Icelandic landscape makes a great backdrop. The book takes you on a journey from Reykjavik to the highlands to the fjords .

The island and The Mist are the next two books in the series. It’s described as Agatha Christie meets Nordic Noir which sounds fascinating. Jonasson is one of the best Icelandic writers and his are some of the best Icelandic crime novels.

Click Here To Buy The Hidden Iceland Trilogy

The Little Book of Tourists In Iceland

We are big believers in respecting the places you travel to and the people who live there. The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland by Alda Sigmundsdottir discusses the huge Icelandic tourist boom and how it has affected the people and the place.

This is a book that really teaches you what not to do when in Iceland. It gives you tips for visiting responsibility and staying safe while you are there.

Not only does it cover the impact tourism is having on Iceland’s structure, resources, and environment but it also busts some myths, particularly around elves.

Also shared are some stories of the crazy things tourists have done, the behavior that most annoys the locals, and what the Icelandic people really think about tourism. It’s a fun, short, and easy read.

Click Here To But The Littel Book Of Tourists In Icleand

The Sagas of the Icelanders

Want to learn about the best Icelandic sagas then The Sagas of the Icelanders is for you. Written in the 13th century they document the settlement of Vikings and the early struggles.

The sagas are one of the world’s great literary treasures and are very important to the Icelandic people. They are fundamentally the real human stories and celebrate the lives and deeds of the Norse men and women.

They are not the easiest reading material but they are one of the best books about Iceland for history lovers.

Click Here To Buy The Sagas of the Icelanders

Rick Steves Iceland

When it comes to Iceland travel books Rick Steves Iceland has to be one of the best. Here you will find itineraries, road trips, and lots of hidden gems.

Covering the best stops on the Ring Road, the Golden Circle. Hot Springs and more this is a candid and useful guide to Iceland.

One of the books on Iceland.

Click Here to Buy Rick Steves Iceland

Names for the Sea: Strangers In Iceland

Sarah Moss had a childhood dream of moving to Iceland. Names For The Sea: Strangers In Iceland is her compelling, beautiful, and very funny account of living in the country.

Moving her two children on a whim from their comfortable life in Kent, England she was there during Iceland’s economic collapse, the Eyjafjallajokull eruption and recounts how the two events impacted her.

In this book, we meet some characters that guided Sarah through Icelandic life. We also experience the Northern Lights, Snaefellsness, and a bunch of other locations with her.

Of all the Iceland books this one is fascinating, funny, and enlightening.

Click Here To Buy Names for the Sea: Strangers in Iceland

The Fish Can Sing

Halldór Laxness is an Icelandic writer that many love. He won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1955 and his book Independent People is considered one of the best Icelandic novels.

The Fish Can Sing is a story about orphan Alfgrimur who spent his childhood in a traditional turf cottage with an elder fisherman. Alfgrimur dreams of becoming a fisherman too until he meets Iceland’s biggest celebrity and things change.

This coming-of-age novel seems to be very symbolic of how challenging it can be to mix the traditional with the new.

Click Here to By Fish Can Sing

Moonstone: The Boy Who Never Was

Winner of the Icelandic Literary Prize Moonstone: The Boy Who Never Was is a compelling novel set against the backdrop of 1918 Iceland.

Katla is erupting, there is a shortage of coal and the Great War grinds on. The story centers around sixteen-year-old Máni Steinn who is a bit of a dreamer and outcast. Everything changes in his life when the Spanish Flu epidemic hits.

This mesmerizing and original novel weaves a story of this misfit living among uncertainty, transformation, and death. It’s one of the most unique Icelandic novels and well worth a read.

Click Here To Buy Moonstone: The Boy Who Never Was

Wild Horses of the Summer Sun: A Memoir of Iceland

Every June Tory Bilski meets up with fellow women travelers and they escape their ordinary lives. Together they live on a horse farm in the middle of nowhere in northern Iceland.

Wild Horses of the Summer Sun: A Memoir of Iceland charts the true story of these women’s journeys and the deep friendship bonds they create over the years. It’s very similar to Eat, Pray, Love or Under The Tuscan Sun.

This is a story of what happens when you begin to follow your dreams. Filled with adventure, humor, and candor which you can’t help but fall in love with. This is one of the Iceland books that will enchant and enthrall you.

Click Here To Buy Wild Horses of the Summer Sun: A Memoir of Iceland

The Little Book of the Hidden People: Twenty stories of elves from Icelandic folklore

Of all the books on Iceland, this is perhaps one of the most quirky. The Little Book of the Hidden People covers the folklore of elves and hidden people giving us an insight into the Iceland of the past and those who lived there.

We learn how the Icelanders’ elf belief was born out of a nation living in abject poverty who longed to believe there was a parallel world. These stories have become an integral part of the cultural and psychological fabric of their nation.

In this book, you will learn all about the Icelanders and the media fascination with elves.

Click Here To Buy The Little Book of the Hidden People: Twenty stories of elves from Icelandic folklore

The Rough Guide to Iceland

The Rough Guide To Iceland is one of the great books to read before Iceland. It’s a comprehensive and entertaining travel guide with all the information you could ever need.

In this book, you get honest recommendations from independent experts. From restaurants to bars to hikes and all the sights they have you covered.

There is also detailed regional coverage with practical information for wherever you are traveling.

Click Here To Buy The Rough Guide To Iceland

I Remember You

How about a ghost story set in the Westfjords? Yes, Yrsa Sigurdardottir delivers with I Remember You .

It’s atmospheric, creepy, and has everything a great ghost story has. There is a remote village, a rundown house, and a feeling they are not alone.

Yrsa Sigurdardotti has taken the international crime fiction world by storm with many comparing this to that the work of Stephen King. Oh as if it couldn’t get worse it’s based on a true story.

Click Here to Buy I Remember You

Burial Rights

This is one of the books set in Iceland that has received high praise. Hannah Kent brings to life the story of Agnes, who is charged with the brutal murder of her former master.

In Burial Rights Agnes is sent to an isolated farm to await execution this book is her story and touches on some deep topics. It’s a book about the truths we claim to know and the ways in which we interpret what we’re told.

Based on actual events this novel is moving, astonishing, and beautiful.

Click Here To Buy Burial Rights.

How Iceland Changed the World: The Big History of a Small Island 

If you want to learn about Icelandic history but want it to be entertaining and readable then this is the book for you. How Iceland Changed the World: The Big History of a Small Island tells the story of how this tiny nation shaped the world.

The book starts 1,200 years ago when a frustrated Viking captain and his useless navigator ran aground in the middle of the North Atlantic. The tour of this island’s history then continues from there.

Did you know for example that Iceland played a pivotal role in the French Revolution, the Moon Landing, and the foundation of Israel? It shocked us too.

It is a lively interesting read that we guarantee will teach you things about Iceland you didn’t know. One of the best Iceland books to get a feel for how important this island is.

Click Here To Buy How Iceland Changed the World: The Big History of a Small Island 

As you can see when it comes to books about Iceland are as diverse and far-reaching as the country itself. Icelandic literature really is a treat and well worth the read.

Whether you read books set in Iceland, Icelandic novels, or travel books on Iceland we encourage you to give at least one of these books a try. We hope they help in your planning and that you have a great Icelandic vacation.

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15 Incredible Books About Iceland (To Read Before Visiting!)

Looking for the best books about Iceland to read before your trip?

Iceland is a remote, desolate land known for its volcanic landscapes, ice-capped glaciers, and sweat-inducingly high prices (how much for a burger!?).

In short, Iceland’s landscapes and culture are downright inspiring, but its literary contributions often aren’t as famous internationally as they deserve to be.

Icelandic authors have gone on to win noble prizes in literature and international acclaim. Not bad for a country with only 336,000 residents!

If you’ve ever wanted to learn about Iceland, or hear tales and folklore of its people, then you’ll love these books about Iceland, from insightful non-fiction to gripping fictional tales.

Here are the best Icelandic books to add to your reading list!

Table of Contents

How To Read While Traveling

The best non-fiction books about iceland, excellent books + novels set in iceland.

This Iceland book guide was written for Our Escape Clause by fellow bibliophile Louisa Smith of Epic Book Society . Thanks for joining us, Louisa!

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

As wonderful as it is to have beautiful books lined up on shelves, let’s face it–carrying around heavy, bulky books about Iceland while traveling is way too much of a hassle.

Instead, we recommend reading via the Kindle App (because we all read on our phones these days anyway–might as well read books instead of social media!).

Prefer to listen to audiobooks instead?

For audiobooks, Audible is a fantastic option!

If you’ve never used Audible before, download a free trial before your trip to Iceland!

If you’re planning to visit Iceland any time soon, you might want to check out some non-fiction books about Iceland so you can brush up on the history and what to expect from the culture

The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland by Alda Sigmundsdottir

Iceland has been a popular tourist destination for decades, and while tourism brings prosperity to the economy, it also brings a whole load of challenges. 

The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland highlights some of the difficulties the country faces because of the amount of tourism, from the social and environmental impacts to the harmony between travelers and locals. 

The book contains a series of short essays, which aims to offer insights into the problems Iceland faces and share tips on how visitors can travel there safely, responsibly, and in a way that is respectful to the locals. 

If you’re thinking of visiting Iceland soon, this is Iceland travel book is a must-read!

The History of Iceland by Gunnar Karlsson

Iceland’s long and impactful history covers over 1,100 years.

In The History of Iceland , Gunnar Karlsson tells how it is from the earliest recorded settlements in the 9th century to modern-day society. 

This literary history lesson has been delivered clearly and concisely, providing a vivid account of key events throughout history and of how society has adapted and gone about its way of life.

It even tells about iconic natural disasters that shook the nation (sometimes, literally). 

Written by a professor of History at the University of Iceland, The History of Iceland is incredibly informative while still being written a captivating voice reminiscent of historical fiction

This fascinating book about Iceland is definitely one to add to your reading list. 

Names for the Sea: Strangers in Iceland by Sarah Moss

Since the age of 19, Sarah Moss always dreamed about moving to Iceland.

In 2009, she finally saw her chance after spotting an advert for a job at the University of Iceland.

When she got the job, she and her kids left their quaint English town for the wild and unknown land of Iceland, an adventure that eventually became the subject of her memoir, Names for the Sea: Strangers in Iceland .

Soon after her move, Iceland went into an economic crisis which caused her salary to be sliced in half.

After that, the Eyjafjallajökull volcano erupted. 

But despite all these challenges, she managed to find a good life here.

She made new friends, including a poet who lived during WWII and witnessed the only bombs fall on Iceland, and a woman who speaks to elves. 

In this enlightening memoir, Moss creates a literary painting of the strange Icelandic landscape, from its bubbling hot spring pools to the unsurfaced roads, to the northern lights that often dance in the skies at night. 

This is Moss’s biographical book of travel and self-discovery , telling of how she and her family settled into a new life in Iceland and adapted to a new way of life.

Viking Age Iceland by Jesse Byock

Another great history book about Iceland is Viking Age Iceland by Jesse Byock.

In this fascinating non-fiction work, he describes medieval Iceland and all of its uniqueness. 

Centuries ago, Iceland had no foreign policy, no defense forces, no rulers, no royal families, and no peasants either. It rarely had any battles.

And yet, it still has an abundance of stories to tell. Its history comes from its people.

In Viking Age Iceland , Jesse Byock unlocks the secrets to the Viking social structures and cultural codes in a captivating voice.

Through this fascinating non-fiction book, you’ll learn about the anthropology and ethnography of Iceland’s society in a vivid and graphic way.

It’s another non-fiction Icelandic book that reads like fiction!

The Promise of Iceland by Kari Gislason

The Promise of Iceland is a heartwarming memoir of Kari Gislason, who travels to Iceland in 1990 to meet his father for the first time.

Kári Gíslason was raised by his British mother, who had sworn not to reveal his father’s identity after the two meet in secret when she was working for the army there. 

When Gislason was growing up, he was aware of his father’s identity but knew of a pact between him and his mom to keep his identity a secret, so never pursued him.

When he was 27, he decided it was time to break the pact.

Upon arriving in the Icelandic city of Reykjavík, he traces the steps of his mother who found herself in Iceland in 1970, after taking a job as an English-speaking secretary in the Army of Foreign Secretaries. 

Set out to find his biological father, he found a new meaning of home.

On this epic journey, he realizes that it wasn’t his father he was longing for all these years, but Iceland, the place where he was born but never knew.

This book is a little similar to The Alchemist , in that it follows one man’s journey toward acceptance and knowledge. 

Rick Steves Iceland by Ian Watson and Rick Steves

Rick Steves Iceland is like a nature documentary in written form, and an excellent guidebook for planning your trip to Iceland.

It’s a definitive guidebook to the mystical land of glaciers, volcanoes, dancing northern lights, volcanic lakes, and hot spring pools.

No matter if you have a weekend to spend in Iceland or a complete two-week itinerary, this book will reveal all the number one sites you should see and offers strategic advice on how to see them.

Steves also gives helpful tips and advice on how to save money, get the most out of your time, beat the crowds, avoid tourist traps, find suitable accommodation, and book reputable tours.

Complete with maps, packing lists, and other useful resources, you won’t need any other guidebook while visiting Iceland.

How Iceland Changed the World: The Big History of a Small Island by Egill Bjarnason

I mentioned earlier how Iceland has a vast history, despite never participating in a full-scale war .

In How Iceland Changed the World , Egill Bjarnason details how this tiny island has had a big impact on the world despite never getting into conflicts.

When a Viking ship ran aground in the middle of the North Atlantic, suddenly Iceland was born.

Over 1,200 years, the island has produced notable diplomats, musicians, sailors, and soldiers, as well as a dynamic landscape, that has quietly altered the globe. 

In this little non-fiction book, readers will learn how Iceland played a role in the French Revolution, the foundation of Israel, and even the Moon Landing.

This humble nation has played a pivotal role in world events, yet has barely earned any credit… until now.

Iceland is home to some of the world’s best novelists, from Nobel prize winners to international bestsellers.

If you’re looking for a riveting tale to get lost in, these are some of the best fiction books set in Iceland!

Woman at 1000 Degrees by Hallgrímur Helgason

Woman at 1000 Degrees is a heartwarming and humbling novel by Icelandic author Hallgrimur Helgason.

This Iceland novel is narrated by an 80-year-old woman who is almost at the end of her life.

She has two or three weeks left to live and has even booked her cremation appointment, where her body will be heated to 1,000 degrees. 

Over the course of her final weeks, she talks about her fondest memories, her childhood growing up as the daughter of Iceland’s first president, to her teenage years living alone in war-torn Europe.

She talks of her love affairs and her travels around several continents. She talks of her husband, kids, and her experience living through financial instability. 

This is the good, bad, and ugly of a woman who was unwavering in the face of adversity, who adapted and faced challenges throughout her whole life. 

Woman at 1000 Degrees is not only an award-winning, bestselling novel set in Iceland but an original story that’s never been done before.

Each page is as unpredictable and as remarkable as the next!

Butterflies in November by Auður Ava Ólafsdóttir

Butterflies in November is a funny travel book from Iceland about a thirty-something woman who wants to leave the chaos of her normal life and travel. 

After her husband leaves her for another woman, her best friend comes to console her.

Only she falls and is badly injured, leaving her to care for her best friend’s mute son. 

One day, she wins 40 million kroner on a shared lottery ticket, and with that, she heads off on a road trip with the boy across the vast lands of Iceland. 

Along the way, some animals may die, her ex-lovers make an unexpected appearance, and the narrator learns the extraordinary lesson of what it takes to be a mother.

This hilarious tale covers themes of family, building relationships, and learning the consequences of life’s mistakes.

The Fish Can Sing by Halldór Laxness

One of the most beloved novels set in Iceland is the classic book The Fish Can Sing .

It was written by Nobel Prize-winning author, Halldór Laxness, and is an endearing coming-of-age tale with hints of light irony and dark humor.

It follows the story of an orphan, Alfgrimur, who has spent his childhood raised by an eccentric elderly couple in a small turf cottage. 

Alfgrimur hopes to become a fisherman one day, like his adoptive grandfather.

That all changes one day he meets the iconic opera singer, Gardar Holm. 

Gardar Holm has bought International fame and pride to Iceland, and yet no one in Iceland has ever heard him sing.

When he meets Alfgrimur, Holm is interested in the young man’s musical potential and encourages him to look to the world outside Iceland to find fame and fortune. 

As Alfgrimur follows his dreams, he is faced with the challenge of finding his own path while staying true to his heritage.

The Sagas of the Icelanders by Various Authors

To Icelanders, the Viking era is also known as ‘The Saga’ era.

It was the first time that the Norse men and women settled on this land and built the foundations of Iceland’s civilization. 

In The Sagas of the Icelanders , a group of Icelandic authors has come together to share tales of the lives and deeds of their descendants, who traveled from as far as Greenland and North America to live here. 

They are stories of folklore and mythology, some based on true events and others on myths. 

The Sagas is considered one of the world’s great literary treasures and covers social issues like love, hate, fate, and freedom.

If you’re looking to understand the history of Iceland’s culture, this Icelandic book is a great place to start!

The Draining Lake by Arnaldur Indriðason

After an earthquake causes the water level of an Icelandic lake to drop, the skeleton of a man half-buried in the sand is revealed.

It had a hole in the skull and had obviously been there for many years.

Only, it had a heavy radio transmitter with Russian inscriptions attached to it.

So begins the captivating story of The Draining Lake , a popular mystery novel set in Iceland.

Erlendur, Elínborg, and Sigurður Óli are the police officers in charge of the investigation, which takes them as far back as the Cold War when intelligent students would be sent to Communist East Germany to study.

Their investigation opens up a world of mystery, horror, and shattered dreams.

The Draining Lake is a fictional Iceland book but has very real emotions portrayed throughout the book.

It tells of the loss of the missing students who were sent for “greener pastures” and the grief of the parents left behind.

I Remember You by Yrsa Sigurdardóttir

I Remember You is a paranormal, thriller, and mystery novel that reveals the terrifying tale of three friends who are tasked with renovating a rundown house in a remote location.

Only, they soon realize they are not as alone as they thought.

Something is not happy about their presence being there. 

Meanwhile, a doctor is investigating the suicide of an elderly woman.

As he learns more about the woman, he learns that she was obsessed with his missing son. 

If you’re a fan of Stephen King and horror novels, then this frightening novel will be the perfect addition to your reading list.

Based on somewhat true events, this page-turning Icelandic book will keep you up at night.

Burial Rites by Hannah Kent

In Hannah Kent’s debut novel, Burial Rites , readers are taken on a literary journey of mystery and despair.

Based on a true story and set in 1829, it follows a young woman, Agnes, who was charged with the brutal murder of her master.

In those days, the penalty for murder is death.

In those final days before she faces her punishment, Agnes is sent to an isolated farm to await her fate.

Her family has disowned her, and only Tóti, a priest chosen to be her spiritual guardian, tries to understand her. 

Meanwhile, as the hour draws near, the farmer’s wife and daughters uncover another side to the story that may help Agnes escape her fate.

Burial Rites is a riveting read and is expertly written, portraying an emotional account of one woman’s struggles to endure when no one listens to her side of the story.

101 Reykjavík by Hallgrímur Helgason

If you’re looking for a pop-culture, young adult novel with hints of humor and coming-of-age elements, 101 Reykjavík is the one. 

It tells the story of Hlynur Björn, a 30-something loner with no job and still living at home with his mom.

One day, his mother comes out as a lesbian and moves her Spanish girlfriend into their home. 

In this memoir-style Icelandic novel, 101 Reykjavík reveals a funny and bizarre love triangle story with hints of perverse sexuality and “slacker culture”.

It pokes fun at Icelandic culture and foibles but in a lighthearted kind of way.

Ready to start reading? Shop the best books about Iceland today!

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29 Books About Iceland That Are Total Must Reads!

Whether you’re after books about Iceland to help you plan your trip. Or ones that promise to give you some last minute inspiration. Or even heartwarming books set in Iceland to tuck into during cosy nights in.

Either way, we’ve got you covered with this list of 29 must-read books about Iceland. Njóta / Enjoy!

Books About Iceland To Help You Plan Your Trip

1. lonely planet’s iceland travel guide.

If you’re looking for a complete Iceland travel guide full of inspiration, insider tips, maps and more, then look no further than Lonely Planet’s Iceland Travel Guide . LP is our travel publisher of choice every single time; we can’t recommend them enough.

Buy Lonely Planet’s Iceland Travel Guide on Amazon >>>

2. DK Eyewitness Top 10 Iceland: 2020

The DK Eyewitness Top 10 Iceland book (updated for 2020) is pocket-sized but still chock-full of useful information about Iceland. This is a great option if you’re not yet sure what you want to see or do in Iceland as it takes you through the top ten of everything from waterfalls and volcanoes to museums and festivals.

Buy DK Eyewitness Top 10 Iceland on Amazon >>>

3. Lonely Planet’s Pocket Reykjavik & Southwest Iceland

If you know you’ll be focusing on Reykjavik and Southwest Iceland during your trip then this pocket-sized Lonely Planet guide is for you. It’s small but perfectly formed to show you what to see and what to skip in these areas – from top must-sees to unique hidden gems.

Buy Lonely Planet’s Reykjavik Pocket Guide on Amazon >>>

4. The Rough Guide to Iceland

Another top travel publisher is Rough Guides. Their books are chock-full of practical advice and information whether you’re into adventure travel or partying the night away. Their latest Iceland travel guide even comes with a free ebook version so you don’t have to lug the actual book around with you.

Buy The Rough Guide to Iceland on Amazon >>>

5. Lonely Planet’s Best of Iceland 

For top Iceland inspiration, Lonely Planet’s Best of Iceland is full of stunning photos and useful tips to help you see the most popular attractions in Iceland. It even has useful itineraries throughout for quick weekend trips and longer holidays.

Buy Lonely Planet’s Best of Iceland on Amazon >>>

6. Rick Steves Iceland

Whether you want to hike glaciers, soak in hidden hot springs or otherwise, this Iceland travel guide by Rick Steves is best for those of you who like to explore hidden gems and get off the beaten path. Inside, you’ll find top tips and recommendations as well as itineraries and candid writing to guide you through the land of the midnight sun.

Buy Rick Steves Iceland on Amazon >>>

7. Iceland Marco Polo Travel Guide & Handbook

One more Iceland travel guide to add to your list is this one by Marco Polo . It’s full of insider tips, sightseeing highlights, top tours you can take and fun suggestions of things to do in Iceland – whatever you’re in the mood for.

Buy Marco Polo’s Iceland Travel Guide on Amazon >>>

8. Lonely Planet Iceland’s Ring Road

If you want to head out on Iceland’s most famous road trip route then this Lonely Planet guide is for you. From maps and itineraries to top attractions and need to know tips, this is one of the most comprehensive guides out there that is totally dedicated to Iceland’s Ring Road.

Buy Lonely Planet’s Ring Road Travel Guide on Amazon >>>

Books About Iceland To Inspire You

9. photographing iceland: an insider’s guide to the most iconic locations.

Written by photographer and Iceland expert, Martin Schulz, this book about photographing Iceland has five unique photography-focused tours inside to help you visit 37 must-see locations in Iceland. The incredible photos themselves are enough to inspire anyone to visit Iceland.

Buy Photographing Iceland on Amazon >>>

10. Iceland by Chris McNab

If you’re looking for a travel coffee table book dedicated to Iceland then this is the one for you . It has over 200 stunning photos of Iceland inside with captions for each one to tell the unique story of the moment that has been captured. The perfect book to flick through while you patiently wait for your trip to Iceland to start.

Buy McNab’s Iceland on Amazon >>>

11. Out in the Cold – Travels North: Adventures in Svalbard, the Faroe Islands, Iceland, Greenland and Canada

An inspirational tale of adventure, Out in the Cold is Bill Murray’s vivid depiction of his adventure across Svalbard, the Faroe Islands, Iceland, Greenland and Canada. From seeing a total solar eclipse in Svalbard to tasting wind-dried sheep in the Faroe Islands and hiking across glaciers in Iceland, this book is one for the adventure lovers among you.

Buy Out in the Cold on Amazon >>>

12. Names for the Sea: Strangers in Iceland 

If you’ve ever had dreams of packing up your life and living in Iceland then this is the book for you . Written as a memoir, this book follows Sarah Moss as she embarks on her childhood dream of moving to Iceland from Kent in the UK. While the book is honest and funny, it’s also so inspiring to hear how the author’s adventure panned out and how she came to love Iceland even more.

Buy Strangers in Iceland on Amazon >>>

More Books About Iceland You Might Like

13. the little book of tourists in iceland: tips, tricks, and what the icelanders really think of you.

Iceland is in the middle of an unprecedented boom in tourism. While this has brought great wealth to the country, it has also presented a myriad of issues and challenges. Through a collection of short essays, this book seeks to provide a unique insight into the social and environmental impact that tourism is having on Iceland and offers tips for travelling safely, responsibly and in harmony with the locals.

Buy The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland on Amazon >>>

14. The Little Book of the Icelanders: 50 miniature essays on the quirks and foibles of the Icelandic people

For a humorous take on the Icelandic culture, this book is a fun read. Some of the topics covered include local driving habits, Icelandic wedding rituals and where you should go to meet the “real” Iceland locals. Humorous, witty but actually quite informative when it comes to the local culture.

Buy The Little Book of the Icelanders on Amazon >>>

15. The Little Book of Icelandic: On the idiosyncrasies, delights, and sheer tyranny of the Icelandic language

Another witty read is The Little Book of Icelandic . From the meanings and origins behind local Icelandic idioms and proverbs to local curse words and slang you can learn, this book deconstructs the Icelandic language and the often-hilarious ways in which the words have been created.

Buy The Little Book of Icelandic on Amazon >>>

16. The Little Book of the Hidden People: Twenty stories of elves from Icelandic folklore

Icelandic folklore is rife with tales of elves and hidden people that inhabited hills and rocks in the landscape. But what do these stories really tell us about the Iceland of old and the people who lived there? In this book , author Alda Sigmundsdóttir presents twenty translated elf stories from Icelandic folklore, along with fascinating notes on the context behind them.

Buy The Little Book of the Hidden People on Amazon >>>

17. Lonely Planet’s Fast Talk Icelandic Phrasebook

Icelandic might be one of the world’s most complex languages to learn, and although you’ll get on fine without knowing any Icelandic words at all, it is polite to learn a few common phrases before your trip. This Lonely Planet phrasebook helps to break down the language and pronunciation making it relatively fast and easy to pick up a few key phrases.

Buy Lonely Planet’s Fast Talk Icelandic Phrasebook on Amazon >>>

18. Walking and Trekking in Iceland: 100 days of walking and multi-day treks

Keen on exploring Iceland’s many incredible hiking trails? Then this book is the one for you. With a total of 49 day walks and 10 multi-stage treks, you’ll find out how best to explore the Icelandic landscape on two feet while passing through three of the country’s most infamous national parks.

Buy Walking and Trekking in Iceland on Amazon >>>

Bonus: Books Set In Iceland That Are Total Must Reads!

19. burial rites.

Set in Northern Iceland in 1829, Burial Rites is the award-winning fictional tale of a woman condemned to death for murdering her lover and the priest tasked with absolving her of her sins.

Buy Burial Rites on Amazon >>>

20. The Sagas of the Icelanders

In Iceland, the age of the Vikings is known as the Saga Age. Set around the turn of the last millennium, these stories depict the lives of the Norse men and women who first settled in Iceland and of their descendants, who ventured farther west to Greenland and, ultimately, North America.

Buy The Sagas of the Icelanders on Amazon >>>

21. The Sealwoman’s Gift

Set in Iceland in 1627, The Sealwoman’s Gift is an award-winning novel all about the pirates that raided the coast of Iceland and abducted 400 people into slavery in Algiers.

Buy The Sealwoman’s Gift on Amazon >>>

22. Butterflies in November

For a more contemporary book set in Iceland, try Butterflies in November . This fictional story written by a native Icelander follows the journey of a heartbroken woman who finds herself winning the road trip of a lifetime to Iceland. 

Buy Butterflies in November on Amazon >>>

23. Magnus Iceland Mystery Series

The Magnus Iceland Mystery novels are a popular series of five murder mystery books set in Iceland. The stories follow Detective Magnus Jonson as he tries to connect the dots between seemingly unconnected events in history and the murders of today.

24. Iceland, Defrosted

Iceland, Defrosted is the true story of an Englishman’s obsession with Iceland. Follow the author as he describes all the reasons why he loves Iceland – from the natural hot springs and howling winter storms to the elusive Northern Lights and local Icelandic music. This book is almost like a love letter to the country and is perfect for those who love Iceland just as much as him.

Buy Iceland, Defrosted on Amazon >>>

25. Independent People

Set in rural Iceland in the early 20th Century, Independent People follows a sheep farmer as he seeks to earn a living from a blighted patch of land after the destruction of the First World War. 

Buy Independent People on Amazon >>>

26. Dark Iceland Series

Dark Iceland is another series of five murder mystery books set in Iceland. This time, you follow rookie police officer Ari Thór Arason as he works through his first investigation and beyond.

27. Storytellers

Storytellers is the debut novel of Icelandic writer, Bjørn Larssen, which tells the story of how on a cold Icelandic night in March 1920, a hermit blacksmith finds himself with an unwanted lodger. Sigurd, an injured stranger is there to share a story from the past that could alter the blacksmith’s entire life.

Buy Storytellers on Amazon >>>

28. The Blue Fox

Winner of the Nordic Literary Prize and nominated for the Icelandic Literature Prize, The Blue Fox seeks to transport you back to the year 1883 and into the midst of an Icelandic winter. The story follows a priest called Skugga-Baldur on his hunt for the enigmatic blue fox. Part mystery, part fairytale, this book promises to keep you spellbound throughout.

Buy The Blue Fox on Amazon >>>

29. The Dark Blue Winter Overcoat and other stories from the North

From the same author as The Blue Fox , The Dark Blue Winter Overcoat is a beautiful anthology of selected works of fiction from the Nordic region, which are often deep-rooted in the world of folklore, fairytale and intrigue.

Buy The Dark Blue Winter Overcoat on Amazon >>>

Over to you now – which books about Iceland do you love to read? We’re always after recommendations so leave us a few notes in the comments below…

Did you like this? Why not share it around?

Justine Jenkins

Justine is one half of the married couple behind the Wanderers of the World travel blog. She lives in Bristol, UK and has travelled extensively within Europe and beyond since 2013. After her trips, she shares detailed travel itineraries, helpful travel guides and inspiring blog posts about the places she's been to. When she's not travelling overseas, you'll find her joining her husband, Scott on various day trips, weekend getaways and walks within the UK, which she also writes about on Wanderers of the World. Aside from travelling and writing, she also loves reading, crafting and learning about nature.

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Hey, I'm Reading

Your friendly site for all fun things books, 44 books set in iceland to read before you visit (or while you’re there).

• by Megan Johnson
• Posted on September 20, 2020 August 16, 2023

There are affiliate links in here.  I get a small commission if you purchase through them at no extra cost to you

Looking for the best books set in Iceland?

Three years ago if you would have asked me if I wanted to go to Iceland, I probably would be said sure, eventually. But now, I’m dying to go! It’s crept its way up my bucket list (still not the top, but up there) and now seeing all these books set in Iceland I want to go even more.

All of these Iceland books will have you dreaming of horses, glaciers, waterfalls, ice caves, and maybe murder since there is some Nordic Noir in here, too.

But don’t worry, you’ll also find some Iceland travel books, Iceland memoirs, Icelandic folk tales, fiction, and non-fiction in Iceland. Basically, no matter what you like, you can find something here.

• If you want to listen to some of these, consider  trying Audible ! You can get your first month free (one free book) plus tons of others they have for free.  Get that Audible deal here.
• If you’re on more of a budget, try Everand (formerly Scribd)! You can get 60 days free there with my link! You can read books and listen to audiobooks. It is unlimited (especially the reading) but if you listen to tons of new audiobooks you may be restricted after a few. I haven’t encountered this yet, but I do use Everand myself and like it a lot. Get 60 days free here!
• Shop my collection of bookish goodies on Etsy ! These aren’t my shop items, but other shops I’ve curated into a book-themed collection. Shop my Etsy bookish goodies here!
• If you want to read more on your Kindle but don’t want to buy books, Kindle Unlimited is a good option. If you read a lot and like to read more than just new releases (especially romance), it could be worth it. Get Kindle Unlimited here !
• Get $5 off of $25 from BookOutlet! This is a great place to find new books for pretty cheap. They also have sales quite a bit, so keep an eye out for those. I tend to check here for books I want if they’re more expensive other places. They don’t have everything but they do have a lot. Shop BookOutlet here!
• Thrift Books has become my go-to when I’m looking for a book and want it cheap. It’s great if you like buying used books. With this you can get a free book after spending $30!
• Shop my book lists here! You can find every book list I have on Bookshop.org (except my monthly round-ups) and I add everything I can but they occasionally won’t have some. I do occasionally add extras though. If any lists are empty, they’ll be filled in shortly! Shop my bookshop.org book lists here .

Books set in Iceland short list

Don’t have time to read the full list? Just want to know my top picks for best Iceland books? Look no further! These are my favorite books set in Iceland (and they all happen to be Nordic Noir, I’m only a little sorry).

The Creak on the Stairs

I remember you, books set in iceland.

Now that you have my top three picks, here is the full list of books about Iceland! And don’t worry, it’s not all Nordic Noir even though that’s how it kicks off. It’s a mix of fiction, folklore, mystery, and more.

Cold as Hell

Arora and Isafold are sisters who lost contact, living in England and Iceland. When their mother doesn’t hear from Isafold, she becomes worried and Arora heads to Iceland to track her down.

She is baffled by the details of her sister’s life as she confronts her abusive, drug-dealing boyfriend and questions her friends and neighbors. With the help of police officer Daniel, she tries to track down her sister but she isn’t the only one watching.

The Girl Who Died

All Una wants to do is teach, but she can’t find steady employment in Reykjavik. Ringing in the new year in the small fishing village of Skalar is the price to pay to earn some teaching credentials.

One of Iceland’s most isolated villages, Skalar is home to just ten people and Una has only two students. Everyone seems to keep distant, even Thor, a man with who she shares an attraction but keeps her at arm’s length.

As darkness descends on the winter, she finds herself spending most of her time in the attic she rents which is reportedly haunted, drinking her life away.

She keeps having nightmares of a girl in a white dress singing a lullaby. A sudden tragedy is echoing an event in the town’s buried past leaving them even more distant and Una to uncover the shocking truth kept hidden for generations.

The Undesired

Aldis works at a remote juvenile detention center in Iceland and she hates it. There are mysterious noises at night and one day, two of the boys go astray.

Decades later Odinn is looking into alleged abuse at the detention center when he finds out the events from the 1970s may have been linked to the accident that killed his ex-wife.

Snu g in Iceland

Here is a cozy book set in Iceland for you that isn’t about death! Rachel is in a rut and her boyfriend Adam barely notices her anymore. She jumps at the chance to oversee the opening of her company’s, Snug, next store in Iceland.

Jonas is her tour guide in Reykjavik and he helps her see that there is life out there waiting to be lived. She begins to fall in love with Iceland and wonders if the life she left behind is what she wants at all.

Four friends seek shelter in an abandoned hunting lodge when they’re caught in a snowstorm in the Icelandic highlands. They may be isolated with no way to communicate with anyone, but they’re not alone.

As the night progresses, an old tragedy that changed their friendship forever surfaces, and those memories could be the key to the mystery they’re stuck in now.

The only person with a possible answer in this baffling murder case is the victim’s seven-year-old daughter who was found hiding in the room her mother was killed in. But now she isn’t talking.

Detective Huldar was recently promoted and is out of his depths so he turns to Freyja for help with her expertise in traumatized young people. She isn’t pleased since she already distrusts the police but she is determined to keep Margaret safe as they try to crack the clues and code from the killer.

Frozen Assets

It’s up to Officer Gunnhildur to find out if the body that washed up in a rural Icelandic harbor was killed on accident or if it was more sinister. As she investigates, she uncovers a web of corruption in the business and banking communities.

In the meantime, a rookie journalist latches onto her hoping for an inside scoop while an anonymous blogger stirs up trouble. And then a second murder is committed.

Storytellers

If you want some Iceland noir but also want Icelandic historical fiction, this is perfect for you. In March 1920, Gunnar finds himself with an unwanted lodger, Sigurd, who offers a story from the past.

But some stories are too dangerous to hear and alter the listener’s lives forever by ending them. Others want to change Gunnar’s story, too though and all he can hope is to write his own last chapter.

The Darkness Knows

Thirty years after he disappeared, the frozen body of a businessman is found in the icy depths of Langjokull glacier. At the time, the search had no results. A business associate was held in custody but lack of evidence didn’t allow him to be charged.

Now, he is arrested again in Konrad and the original investigator is called back to reopen the case. Progress can finally be made when a woman comes forward with information from her deceased brother.

Around Iceland on Inspiration

Riaan Manser is South Africa’s best-known adventurer and this was his most daring, and coldest, adventure yet. He was going to kayak around Iceland with Dan Skinstad, who suffers from minor cerebral palsy.

As a team, they overcome daunting obstacles while learning how to work together. This is also apparently a controversial TV series that came out in 2012. Let me know if you’ve seen that and how it was! This is a good one if you like books about kayaking long distances or human-powered journeys.

Wild Horses of the Summer Sun: A Memoir of Iceland

Every June, Tori Bilski meets up with fellow women travelers on a horse farm in Northern Iceland, near the Greenland Sea. They escape their ordinary live to live a peaceful one on the farm, at least for a little while.

When they first went to Thingeryar, they were strangers with only a love for Icelandic horses in common. Now, they grow old together while keeping each other young.

Names for the Sea: Strangers in Iceland

Sarah Moss had always wanted to move to Iceland, especially after spending a summer there at nineteen. Well, in 2009, with two young kids and a nice life in Kent, England, she applied for a job at the University of Iceland on a whim after seeing an advertisement.

The resulting adventure was shaped by the collapse of Iceland’s economy, as was her salary, the eruption of Eyjafjallajokull, and a collection of new friends as she and her family learned new ways to live on their adventures around the island.

The Far Traveler: Voyages of a Viking Woman

Gudrid, a Viking woman, set sail off the edge of the known world 500 years before Columbus and lived in the New World, where she landed, for three years where she gave birth to a baby before she sailed home. At least that’s what the Icelandic stories say.

No one believed the stories were true, even when a Viking longhouse was found in Newfoundland, but in 2001 scientists may have found Gudrid’s last house buried under a hay field in Iceland, just like the story suggested it could be. This is the tale of following her journey and sheds light on why society may have collapsed.

The Little Book of the Icelanders: 50 Miniature Essays on the Quirks and Foibles of the Icelandic People

Alda Sigmundsdottir was raised in Iceland, and after more than twenty years away, she returns as a foreigner. Once she arrives, she begins dissecting the national psyche of Icelanders with the insight of a native and the perspective of an outsider.

Some of the topics included are appalling driving habits of Icelanders, their profound fear of commitment, naming conventions and customs, the importance of family, where to meet the real Icelanders, and more. This is a great book about Iceland if you want to know what it’s like living there.

The Darkness

Just like Finland , Icelandic Nordic Noir is not something that’s hard to come by and there are plenty to choose from if you are more into thrillers.

When a young Russian woman’s body washes up on the Icelandic shore, it’s quietly decided it was a suicide and the case is closed.

Over a year later Detective Huda Hermannsdottir is forced into retirement at 64 from the Reykjavik police, but dark memories from her past are threatening to come back and haunt her.

But before she leaves, she is given two weeks and the chance to solve and cold chase of her choice and she chooses the Russian girl who’s hope for asylum was ended on the cold rocky shores.

She finds out another girl went missing at the same time and everyone seems determined to put the brakes on her investigation, but she will find the killer.

Miss Iceland

Heka always knew she wanted to be a writer in a nation where households proudly displayed the work of poets and leather-bound sagas, but there is one problem: she is a woman and it’s the 1960s.

After packing up the few belongings she had, she headed into Reykjavik with a manuscript in her bag.

She moves in with her gay friend, Jon, who longs to work in the theater but can only find dangerous backbreaking work.

Her opportunities are also limited, but the world they’re in is changing and she realizes she must escape abroad for her dreams to come true, no matter the cost.

Seawomen of Iceland: Survival on the Edge

If you want a good non-fiction/history book about Iceland, check this one out for sure! Margaret Wilson saw a plaque that said this was the winter fishing hut of Thuridur Einarsdottir, one of Iceland’s greatest fishing captains and she lived from 1777 to 1863.

Thus began the quest to find out if there were more Icelandic sea women. She was surprised by what she found: a collection of women that braved the seas for centuries.

This tells their stories that include excitement, accidents, trials, and tribulations of fishing in Iceland from rowboats to today’s high-tech fisheries.

Ari Thor is a rookie policeman on his first posting farm from his girlfriend, who is in Reykjavik, in an isolated fishing village where no one locks their doors in the fjords of Northern Iceland.

A young woman is found naked, bleeding, and unconscious in the snow and a highly esteemed writer falls to his death. Ari is dragged right into it in a community where secrets and lies are a way of life.

The Museum of Whales You Will Never See: And Other Excursions to Iceland’s Most Unusual Museums

With a population of only 330,000, Iceland has enough museums for nearly one for every ten people, which means 265 museums and public collections. They range from the Icelandic Phallological Museum to the Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft.

Kendra Greene takes us through this whimsical cabinet of curiosities and shows us how random objects can map people past, futures, fears, and obsessions.

Season of the Witch

Einar is a reporter for the Reykjavik-based paper, The Afternoon News, and is chosen to be their sole reporter in Northern Iceland when they expand up there. He thought he would just be moving to a new town, not a new decade.

Everything feels slow and old-fashioned, which is the total opposite of what he is used to. His first assignment is to cover a college theater production of an Icelandic folktale of ambition and greed, Loftur the Sorcerer.

This apparent ancient history starts to come true though when a local woman dies after falling overboard on a corporate boating retreat.

Everyone assumes it is an accident, but her mother disagrees and convinces Einar to investigate. Just days later, the lead actor from the play disappears and Einar begins to chip away at the quaint small-town facade, hungry for the truth.

The Guardians of Iceland and Other Icelandic Folk Tales

Trolls and Hidden Folk are par for the course in Iceland and this collection of Icelandic folklore and legends brings those stories to life.

This book contains twenty-five short stories for all ages that are interested in Icelandic fairytales and legends that include trolls, elves, and hidden people in stories that have been passed down for generations.

The Glass Woman

Rosa has always dreamed of living in a remote village with her Mamma, praying to the Christian God aloud during the day and whispering enchantments to the old gods alone at night, but when her father dies suddenly and her Mamma becomes ill, plans change.

She marries herself off to a visiting trader in exchange for a dowry even though rumors are going around about his first wife’s suspicious death.

Things aren’t going great when she follows Jon, her new husband, to his remote home near the sea. He expects her to stay home and be a good Christian wife and forbids her from interacting with any of the locals while barely talking to her himself.

She is also forbidden from going into his attic, but when she starts to hear noises up there, she confirms the troubling rumors about his first wife from the locals.

The Wild One

When a grieving woman asks Peter to help find her missing eight-year-old grandson, he has to get on an airplane and face his post-traumatic claustrophobia as a war veteran.

The woman’s daughter was murdered and her husband, Erik, is the only suspect but he’s run off with their young son and fled to Iceland for the protection of Erik’s lawless family.

But when Peter arrives, he is greeted, unofficially, by a man from the US embassy who makes it known that the US government apparently doesn’t want him in Iceland at all.

They allow him two days of sightseeing before he has to get on the first available flight out, but soon they realize he isn’t leaving until his mission is accomplished and they start hunting him, too.

Moonstone: The Boy Who Never Was

Mani is queer, but in Iceland in 1918, homosexuality is beyond the furthest extreme. Reykjavik is homogenous, isolated, and defenseless against the Spanish Flu which has already ravaged Europe, Asia, and North America.

And if it’s not the flu, the threat of war spreading north is always looming. One good thing the outside world has brought though is cinema and it’s hard to beat a dark, silent room with a European film flickering in front of you that will help you escape and feel like everything will be alright.

Now, at Reykjavik’s darkest hour, Mani has to decide if he should retreat into his own world or engage with the society that has so soundly rejected him.

The Blue Fox

A hunter is lead on a transformative quest led by an enigmatic fox in the harsh Icelandic winter. At the edge of his territory, a naturalist is struggling to build a life for a young woman with Down Syndrome that he rescued from a shipwreck years earlier.

By the end, all of their lives will have changed. This is a short book set in Iceland if you’re looking for a quicker read.

The only clues left behind when a lonely old man is left dead in his apartment in Reykjavik are a note left by the killer and a photo of a young girl’s grave.

During the investigation, Inspector Erlandur discovers that years ago the man was accused of a rape that went unsolved. Inspector Erlandur reopens the long-cold case and follows an odd trail of evidence that uncovers secrets much larger than the murder of one old man.

Burial Rites

Agnes has been sent to await execution on an isolated farm after she was charged with the brutal murder of her master. The family avoids Agnes at first, horrified by the thought of housing a convicted murderer and only a priest she chose to be her spiritual guardian tries to understand her.

But the farmer’s wife and daughter learn there is another side to the sensational story they’ve all been told.

The Tricking of Freya

Freya Morris grew up in a typical American suburb but spent every summer with relatives in Gimil, a tiny town in Canada settled by Icelandic immigrants.

Whenever she is here, she falls under the spell of her trouble, but charming, aunt Birdie who enchants her with stories of Norse goddesses, Viking bards, and the life of her late grandfather, the most famous poet of “New Iceland.”

But one day Birdie tricks Freya into a terrifying scandal and Freya turns her back on everything Icelandic until twenty years later when she finally returns to Gimil and stumbles on a long-concealed family secret which she becomes increasingly obsessed with unraveling and finds herself knee-deep in memories she would prefer to keep buried.

Soon the clues in Gimil dry up and she travels to Iceland before coming to an unsettling conclusion. This Icelandic novel has moved to the top of my TBR for sure!

The Greenhouse

After Lobbi’s mother dies, he decides to leave his studies behind to go live at a monastery to restore its once fabulous gardens, thanks to their shared love of tending rare roses.

As he is transforming the greenhouse, a friend of a friend, whom he shared a fateful moment in his mother’s greenhouse, surprises him with a visit and with the daughter they conceived that night. He begins to assume the complex roles of a man as he cares for the garden and the little girl.

Heaven and Hell

Badur and his friend join a cod fishing boat in a remote part of Iceland and during a surprising winter storm, Badur succumbs t the cold after forgetting his waterproof thanks to being lost in “Paradise Lost.”

The boy is appalled by his death and fisherman’s callous ability to set about getting the fatal catch so he leaves the village intent on returning the book to its owner.

He is already resolved in joining his friend in death on the perilous journey but decides he can’t join his friend yet once he gets to the town and immerses himself in the stories and lives of the inhabitants.

The Worst Thing

As long as he isn’t directly dealing with kidnappers and their victims, Bryan Bennett’s job designing hostage negotiation programs is perfect. He is prevented from traveling by nightmares of his own abduction and imprisonment as a child.

Soon, Bryan is requested specifically to teach his corporate-level kidnapping class in Reykjavik and he refuses before learning he was asked for, no one else. He has been avoiding his deepest fears for years and is taken hostage again on this trip and must finally face them.

The Whispering Muse

In 1949, Vladimir Haraldsson, an eccentric Icelander, has elevated ideas about the consumption of fish in Nordic countries.

He is lucky enough to be invited onto a Danish merchants ship back to the Black Sea where the second mate is a disguised mythical hero, Caeneus, that entrances his fellow travelers with the tale of his journey on the fabled vessel, Argo, on its quest to retrieve the Golden Fleece. This is another good, short book about Iceland.

From the Mouth of the Whale

Jonas Palmason is a poet and self-taught healer who is exiled to a barren island for his heretical conduct which happens to include using his gift to cure “female maladies”, an exorcism on a walking corpse, the deaths of three children, and a massacre of innocent Basque whalers at the hands of local villagers.

The Hitman’s Guide to Housecleaning

Tomislav Boksic, Toxic, has a flawless record as a hitman for the Croatian mafia in New York with 66 hits under his belt at least until he kills the wrong guy and is forced to flee the states.

Leaving everything behind, he finds himself on a flight to Reykjavik using the identity of a televangelist named Father Friendly. He is forced to reevaluate his life in this new place devoid of guns and contract killing.

Last Rituals

A young German student’s body is found with the eyes cut out and strange symbols carved into it at a University in Reykjavik. The police make an arrest right away, but the family isn’t convinced it’s the right man and they ask Thora Gudmundsdottir to investigate.

Before long, Thora and her associate Matthew Reich uncover the victims obsession with Iceland’s grisly history of torture, execution, and witch hunts, but there are very modern horrors among these long dark traditions.

Butterflies in November

After accidentally killing a good and being dumped twice on one day, she is ready to escape the chaos of her life, but instead, she is left to care for her best friend’s four-year-old deaf-mute son.

He chooses the winning numbers for a lottery ticket and they set off on Iceland’s Ring Road for a road trip of discovery of black sand beaches, cucumber farms, lava fields, flocks of sheep, a falconer, an Estonian choir, and more.

The result will change the ways she sees her past and charts her future in profound ways. This is a great choice if you want a lighthearted book set in Iceland.

Where the Shadows Lie

Rumors are swirling of an 800-year-old manuscript with a long lost saga about a very powerful ring. The saga rediscovery on it’s own would be worth a fortune, but if the rumors are true, there is something much more valuable about this one. Something worth killing for, that Professor Agnar Haraldsson will lose his life over.

Magnus Johnson, a Boston-raised homicide detective, is unraveling myth from murder as he returns to his homeland after a bad run-in with a drug cartel back in Boston. The other reason he returns hits closer to home, the murder of his father.

The Northern Lights Lodge

Lucy is ready to get away from her life in the UK after her heart is broken and her career is falling apart. When she accepts a job as manager of the Northern Lights Lodge, she doesn’t expect to be in the company of bubbling hot springs, snow-covered glaciers, and a gorgeous Scottish barman, Alex.

She sets out to turn the lodge into the most romantic destination in Iceland even though romance is the last thing she wants herself.

Bust as she and Alex grow closer, she may learn how to fall in love again. If you’re looking for a romance book set in Iceland, look no further (but actually keep reading the list because there are some good ones to come.)

Guogeir Fransson is a Reykjavik police officer trying to put tragedy in his professional life behind him while resolving personal turmoil. To do this, he moved far from home to Eastern Iceland and when he hears about a foreign woman who moved to the tight-knit town and disappeared just as fast, his detective sense starts tingling.

His investigation brings him back to Reykjavik before a remote farmhouse in the mountains where he finds an elderly woman, her son, and their sinister past.

I read this one and didn’t love it but it’s still worth reading if you can find it (I can’t find it anymore, I’m not sure why.)

Sonia is struggling to provide for herself and keep custody of her son after her messy divorce. Without much left to choose from, she starts smuggling cocaine into Iceland and finds herself caught up in a ruthless criminal world.

As she desperately looks for a way out, she’s pitted against her nemesis, Bragi, a customs officer with years of experience that frustrate her and her progressively daring strategies.

Things get even more complicated when she embarks on a relationship with a woman, Alga, who is a high-level bank executive being prosecuted in the aftermath of the Icelandic financial crash.

In the town of Arkranes, a woman’s body is found in a lighthouse and she is no stranger to the area. After a failed relationship, Officer Elma returns to Arkranes. She and her colleagues begin an uneasy investigation that uncovers a shocking secret in the woman’s past that continues to reverberate through the present day.

As they investigate, they uncover a host of hidden crimes that shock the community. They have to find justice as they fight through shattered memories of the townspeople while they dodge increasingly serious threats.

I read this one last year and really liked it! I’ll definitely read more of the series or more from the author.

Why Did you Lie?

A journalist investigating an old case commits suicide. A couple returns from a house swap in the US and find their home in disarray with the guests seemingly missing.

Four strangers are struggling to find shelter on a windswept rock in the raging sea. They all have one thing in common: they lied. I would like to read this one!

Three friends are renovating a rundown house in Iceland’s Westfjords and soon they realize they aren’t as alone as they thought. Something wants them to leave and it’s making its presence known.

Meanwhile, in a nearby town, a doctor is investigating the suicide of an elderly woman and he discovers that she was obsessed with his son that disappeared. The horrifying truth is uncovered as the two worlds collide. I would also really like to read this one.

Ursula is burned out and traumatized from her experiences around the world as an aid worker so she decides to return to Iceland where she accepts a high-profile government role to hopefully make a difference.

On her first day, she promises to help a mother who is seeking justice for her daughter who was raped by a policeman but life becomes much more harrowing in the high office than she imagined.

A homeless man is stalking her and the death of her father in police custody is brought back into the light while she is drawn into dirty politics and the stakes keep getting higher.

Have you read any of these books set in Iceland? Which ones? Any other Iceland books I should check out?

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Author: Megan Johnson

I'm Megan, a cheesehead at heart currently residing in the Sunshine State. You can probably find me reading, watching Forensic Files, or both. View all posts by Megan Johnson

My daughters book is about Iceland and it comes out next year Paula Stokes Hellfinder

Oh, that sounds like a really fun book! I just added it to my TBR and will have to update my list to include it!

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Lonely Planet's local travel experts reveal all you need to know to plan the trip of a lifetime to Iceland.

Discover popular and off the beaten track experiences from sailing among majestic icebergs in Iceland's most famous glacier lagoon, Jökulsárlón; to devouring lobster at the authentic small-town festival of Humarhátíð; and exploring Þingvellir National Park on horseback.

Build a trip to remember with Lonely Planet's Iceland travel guide:

• Our classic guidebook format provides you with the most comprehensive level of information for planning multi-week trips
• Updated with an all new structure and design so you can navigate Iceland and connect experiences together with ease
• Create your perfect trip with exciting itineraries for extended journeys combined with suggested day trips, walking tours, and activities to match your passions
• Get fresh takes on must-visit sights and swim between the continents at Silfra Fissure, explore Katla Geopark, hike through Snæfellsjökull National Park
• Special features on capturing the Northern Lights, Reykjavik food and nightlife, and road trip through the Westfjords
• Expert local recommendations on when to go, eating, drinking, nightlife, shopping, accommodation, adventure activities, festivals, and more
• Essential information toolkit containing tips on arriving; transport; making the most of your time and money; LGBTIQ+ travel advice; useful words and phrases; accessibility; and responsible travel
• Connect with Icelandic culture through stories that delve deep into local life, history, and traditions 
• Inspiring full-colour travel photography and maps including a pull out map of Reykjavik
• Covers Reykjavik, Southwest Iceland & the Golden Circle, Southeast Iceland, West Iceland, The Westfjords, North Iceland, East Iceland, The Highlands

Create a trip that's uniquely yours and get to the heart of this extraordinary country with Lonely Planet's Iceland.

Reykjavik, Southwest Iceland & the Golden Circle, Southeast Iceland, West Iceland, The Westfjords, North Iceland, East Iceland, The Highlands

ISBN: 9781838693619

Edition: 13th

Publication Date: March 2024

Writers: Thiruvengadam, Meena

Averbuck, Alexis Bjarnason, Egill Svala Arnarsdóttir, Eygló

352 pages,47 maps | Dimensions: 128mm width × 197mm height

Next edition due: April 2026

Language: English

10 Best Books About Iceland to Read Before You Visit

This page contains affiliate links. Please read our disclosure for more info.

These Iceland books are the best way to prepare for your trip to this beautiful and unusual island.

Iceland is a very literary country. It has a near universal literacy rate, a tradition of reading that dates back to the 13th century Sagas, and one in ten Icelanders will publish a book in their lifetime.

Iceland publishes more books per capita than anywhere else in the world. Many of these are released during Jólabókaflóðið (Yule book flood) in the months before Christmas due to the tradition of giving books as Christmas presents (a custom I can heartily get behind).

The books about Iceland on this list include non-fiction to help you learn more about the culture and history of this isolated North Atlantic island, as well as novels set in Iceland by classic and contemporary Icelandic authors.

I really enjoyed delving into Icelandic literature as the country has produced a surprising number of excellent writers who’ve had great success abroad and been widely translated. Icelandic crime writers are especially popular, which is rather odd considering the low crime rates in the country.

These are my favourite Icelandic novels and non-fiction books.

Non-Fiction Books About Iceland

Icelandic novels, icelandic sagas.

1) The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland by Alda Sigmundsdottir

This is the one book I think everyone should read before visiting Iceland. It explains the tourism boom that has seen visitor numbers rise exponentially since 2010, what Icelanders think about us, and the impact it has had on the country.

You’ll learn what not to do, tips for touring Iceland safely and responsibly, and the truth about Iceland myths. It’s a short, easy and enjoyable read.

2) The Little Book of the Icelanders by Alda Sigmundsdottir

Another short and entertaining book by Alda, this is an insight into the unique Icelandic people with all their quirks.

The short essays cover naming conventions (including why names have to be approved by a committee and professions like alien tamer and ghostbuster are listed in the phone book), how hot tubs are the equivalent of British pubs, why Icelanders hate commitment, dating and family life, and the shower police at swimming pools.

3) Names for the Sea: Strangers in Iceland by Sarah Moss

Sometimes it’s useful to get an outsiders' perspective on a country. This is a memoir of a British woman who moved to Reykjavik with her family to teach at the University just after the economic crash. It’s a fascinating look at Icelandic culture as she struggles to fit into the close-knit society.

During her year in the country, she explores issues like the financial crisis, knitting, elves (the hidden people), life in the olden days, volcanic eruptions, and describes the passing of the seasons. I learnt a lot about the country and especially enjoyed the final section when she travels around the country and describes the beautiful Snaefellsness Peninsula.

Back to Contents

4) Woman at 1000 Degrees by Hallgrímur Helgason

I loved this highly original dark comedy about Herra Björnsson, an old Icelandic woman living in a garage with a hand grenade and a laptop. She spends her time on Facebook pretending to be other people, hacks into her children’s accounts, makes an appointment for her cremation, and looks back on her adventure-filled life.

The main focus of her memories is how she got caught up in WWII in Germany as a teenager when her father decided to fight for the Nazis. She retells her horrific experiences without any self-pity and often with comedy. Herra is unlike any character I’ve read before.

5) The Fish Can Sing by Halldór Laxness

Iceland’s most revered author, Halldór Laxness, won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1955. His book Independent People is considered one of the best Icelandic novels, but I decided to start with the more accessible (i.e less depressing) The Fish Can Sing .

It’s a lightly humorous coming of age novel about orphan Alfgrimur who spent his childhood in a simple turf cottage with an elderly fisherman and a stream of eccentric house guests. It’s a fascinating insight into early 20th-century life in Iceland—a time of change when Reykjavik was becoming the capital and large fishing boats threatened the lifestyle of simple fishermen.

6) I Remember You by Yrsa Sigurdardóttir

This ghost story is set in the Westfjords in the town of Ísafjörður (which we visited) and a remote village in Hornstrandir with two separate but slowly merging storylines. It’s atmospheric and creepy rather than gory, and although I’m not usually a horror fan, I enjoyed it.

7) The Draining Lake by Arnaldur Indriðason

Arnaldur Indriðason is the master of Nordic Noir with his bestselling Icelandic detective series featuring Inspector Erlendur. I dived in at number four in the series about a body that’s discovered in a lake near Reykjavik with ties to the Cold War era. It's an easy, enjoyable read with some insights into life in Iceland.

8) Butterflies in November by Auður Ava Ólafsdóttir

A zany black comedy about a woman who is dumped twice in one day, wins a summer cabin and the lottery, and takes off on a road trip around Iceland’s Ring Road with a deaf-mute four-year-old. Their madcap adventures make a fun read. 

9) Burial Rites by Hannah Kent

This is the only novel by a non-Icelandic writer on the list, but it’s obvious that Australian author Hannah Kent has done a huge amount of research for her book set in Iceland.

It’s a fictionalised account of the true story of Agnes Magnussdottir, the last woman executed in Iceland in 1830. There are no prisons in the country so she’s sent to a farm to await her execution and we gradually learn how she was convicted of murder. It seems to present a realistic depiction of the harsh life in rural Iceland in the early 1800s.

The story is reminiscent of Alias Grace and is being made into a film starring Jennifer Lawrence.

10) The Sagas of the Icelanders

The Icelandic Sagas are one of the world’s greatest literary treasures. They were written in the 13th century and documented the settlement of Iceland by Vikings in the 9th century and the early struggles and conflicts of the first settlers.

The Sagas are hugely important in Iceland, and you’ll see references to them everywhere. I found the introduction to this collection of Sagas useful to get an understanding of their importance, but I admit I struggled to get through the tales themselves. It’s definitely worth trying though!

I hope these Iceland books give you some insight into the culture so you’ll make the most of your experience in this fascinating country.

I also recommend the Lonely Planet Iceland guidebook for planning your trip as well as these other posts:

• Planning a Trip to Iceland: DOs and DON’Ts
• Iceland Itinerary: Off The Beaten Path on a Snæfellsnes and Westfjords Road Trip
• 14 Places Not to Miss on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
• How Much Does an Iceland Trip Cost? Our Road Trip Budget
• The Ultimate Iceland Packing List for Men and Women (Carry-On Only)
• Visiting Iceland in September: What to Expect and Things to Do

If you’re looking for more travel reading, see our book guides to Japan and South Africa and our favourite travel memoirs and coffee table travel books . 

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Your travel posts and tips are excellent. Thank you for all of this great information. My only comment concerns travel insurance. The majority of travel insurance carriers do not cover anyone 70 years and older. This is very frustrating as I am 70, in great health, and love to travel though I can not find travel insurance.

Reply ↓

I agree it is very annoying that most travel insurance doesn’t cover over 70s. It is possible to get cover but it will need to be from a specialised provider and will be more expensive. It depends where you are from what the options are. I hope you are able to find some.

I would add Iceland Saga by Magnus Magnusson to your list. It’s a great description of different places in Iceland with a historical or saga event that happened there. It really made the place come alive for me.

Thanks for the recommendation!

Having visited a paradise called Iceland in 2017, I’ve developed a deep love for Icelandic literature. I loved-loved Burial Rites by Hannah Kent. Good to see Hallgrimur and Arnaldur in the list – though I’m yet to read the books featured here. But I enjoyed The Shadow District and Silence of the Grave by Arnaldur and The Hitman’s Guide to Housecleaning by Halgrimur. Looking forward to reading more Icelandic books! (Also, I think it would done justice to acknowledge the English translators of most of the books in the list!)

Thanks for the recommendations Peter!

I’m planning a trip to Iceland for February and I’m already excited! I will definitely consider reading some of the books from your list – or get one as a gift for my husband who’s going with me as a Christmas gift. Time to start building the anticipation! :) Thanks for sharing!

I love building anticipation before a trip by reading books too! Happy reading!

Nice post! Thanks for sharing!

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10 Books to Read Before Visiting Iceland

Iceland has encountered a tourist boom in recent years, with around 2 million tourists a year. Flocking in to see all the natural wonders that it has to offer, it’s no surprise that Iceland is rich in history and culture, as well as incredible geography. Before your travels to this magnificent country, you may want to prepare yourself by learning more about the ways in which Icelandic culture has changed throughout its history.  Below are 10 books to read before traveling to Iceland that will surely prepare you for all the nation has to offer.

The History of Iceland    by Gunnar Karisson

If you’re looking for an objective and concise history of Iceland, look no further than Gunnar Karisson’s The History of Iceland . Founded as late as the Viking Age, Iceland is a unique country having extensive written and archaeological sources about its origin. This book includes a comprehensively written historical recount of the trials and tribulations that this country has endured. Beginning with the settlement era and continuing through the early modern age, The History of Iceland comes with no shortage of details, and will surely prepare you with all you need to know before you embark on your travels.

Names for the Sea: Strangers in Iceland   by Sarah Moss

Written by award winning author Sarah Moss, this autobiographical tale tells the story of her and her family as they move to Iceland for a year during its economic collapse of 2008. Accepting a teaching position at the University of Iceland, Moss follows her childhood dream leaves her comfortable life in England forcing her and her family to find new ways to live. Unlike your typical travel book, Names for the Sea: Strangers in Iceland will give you an outsider's perspective into the modern day culture of Iceland, as well as draw you towards diverse Icelandic landscape that you will experience throughout your trip.

The Promise of Iceland    by Kari Gislason

This captivating memoir follows the physical and emotional journey of author Kari Gislason as he travels to Iceland in attempt to find and meet his birth father. Pledged to secrecy, never revealing his father's true identity, Gislason travels between Iceland, England, and Australia all while discovering the true meaning of “home” through his experiences and the different people that he meets. This riveting journey through memory, time, and various landscapes, will inspire any reader to experience the Icelandic culture depicted in this novel for themselves.

Iceland 101    by Rúnar Þór Sigurbjörnsson

Iceland 101 by author Rúnar Þór Sigurbjörnsson has all the tips and tricks that you’ll need to know when it comes to touring and staying in Iceland. Compiled of five chapters, each one explaining the dos and don’ts of being a tourist in Iceland, Iceland 101 is the perfect guide to the culture and geography of this breathtaking country. Short and to the point, you can even read this book on your plane ride while you await all that Iceland has to offer.

The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland   by Alda Sigmundsdottir

In this series of short essays, author Alda Sigmundsdottir provides a unique insight into the positive and negative impacts that tourism has had on modern day Iceland, both socially and environmentally. Well written and extremely informative, this book serves as a guide to touring Iceland, packed with tips on how to explore the magnificent country safely and responsibly. A must-read for anybody planning a trip to Iceland, take advantage of this fascinating resource to ensure that you understand the ins and outs of the many facets of Iceland.

Burial Rites   by Hannah Kent

Inspired by a true story, this fictionalized tale written by Hannah Kent recounts the final days of a young woman named Agnes Magnúsdóttir, after she is accused of murder and condemned to death in northern Iceland in 1829. This chilling tale, not for the faint of heart, depicts the realistic and harsh life of rural Iceland in the early 19th century. Sent to await her execution at an isolated farm, the story of Agnes is riveting, and evokes the reality of an old and distant Iceland.

The Sagas of the Icelanders   by Jane Smiley

This fascinating collection of medieval literature tells the tales of the age of the Vikings, also known as the saga age. Written in the 13th century, documenting the settlement of Vikings in Iceland in the 9th century, this challenging yet rewarding read paints a vivid picture of what it was like in Iceland during the medieval age. Giving you an in depth insight into the past and an important piece of Icelandic culture, The Sagas of the Icelanders will prepare for your trip like none other.

The Fish Can Sing   by Halldor Laxness

Written by Nobel prize winner Halldór Laxness, The Fish Can Sing is a coming of age tale about a young orphan boy Algrimur living in a small village of Brekkukot in the outskirts of Reykjavik with his foster grandparents. This light and humorous tale provides insight into early 20th century life in Iceland during a tumultuous period as Reykjavik became the country’s capital,  and large fishing boats threatened the lifestyle of simple fisherman like Algimur’s foster grandfather. Prepare for your trip to Iceland by reading this book that truly encompasses the turn of the 20th century.

Viking Age Iceland   by Jesse Byock

Breaking away from the traditional scholarly methods and interpretations typically seen in history books, author Jesse Byock combines environmental science, anthropology, and archaeology to tell the tales of the Icelandic sagas in Viking Age Iceland. Engaging and well written, this book is the perfect introduction to the society and politics of Iceland from the settlement days through the 13th century. For those fascinated with the Viking Age, this medieval history lesson is necessary in preparing your trip.

The Little Book of Icelanders  by Alda Sigmundsdottir

This collection of 50 miniature essays is the perfect quick cultural introduction to all the quirks and foibles of the Icelandic people, and what it’s like to live among them. The Little Book of Icelanders is easy to read and jam packed with fun facts and information about Iceland’s culture, from the role that family plays in society, to why beer was banned in the country until 1989. Entertaining yet informative, this book will help you understand why Icelanders act the way they do, and what has made Iceland the country that it is today.

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17 Beautiful Icelandic Novels To Inspire Your Trip

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Looking for books set in Iceland and books about Iceland to inspire your travels? Don’t miss these essential Icelandic novels to transport you to the land of fire and ice.

After returning from an out-of-this-world Icelandic winter adventure, pairing Icelandic fiction and nonfiction with our travels proved both thrilling and enlightening. 

I ‘wandered’ to Iceland in both the figurative and literal sense with the best Icelandic books.

Now, I know what it is like to walk through an infamous Bonus grocery store as Sarah Moss describes in Names for the Sea . Let’s not forget the sun disappearing in the winter, too .

Unimaginable wind gusts indeed create chilly and dangerously harsh winters with unpredictable weather as described in Hannah Kent’s Iceland-based book, Burial Rites . You have to feel that bone-chilling cold to believe it .

We had a surprise date with those sneaky and heavenly Northern Lights — just how I imagined them after reading LoveStar , Icelandic science fiction.

Lastly, I tried my hardest as I tongued my way through Icelandic pronunciation. Jökulsárlón really tripped me up.  I still don’t think I have it right, but I loved learning Icelandic in person .

Below, find a list of beautiful as well as heartbreaking books set in Iceland. 

From deadly spinster tales based loosely on facts to love stories and social engineering science fiction, learn about humanity, grief, and Icelandic history and culture.

I promise there is something for everyone, too: Icelandic fiction and literature that has been translated into English as well as Icelandic mysteries, travel books, and famous historical fiction.

Let’s get started with these amazing books about Iceland to take you there.

You may also enjoy these Icelandic movies .

Table of Contents

Some Of The Best Books Set In Iceland

Moonstone: the boy who never was by sjón.

• The Blue Fox by Sjón

Burial Rites By Hannah Kent

Woman at 1,000 degrees by hallgrímur helgason.

• Independent People Halldór Laxness
• The Fish Can Sing by Halldór Laxness
• Angels of the Universe by Einar Mar Gudmundsson

The Sagas of Icelanders by Anonymous

The greenhouse by audur ava olafsdottir.

• 101 Reykjavik by Hallgrímur Helgason

Jar City by Arnaldur Indridason

Lovestar by andri snaer magnason.

• Names for the Sea Strangers in Iceland by Sarah Moss
• And discover helpful Iceland travel books…

Please note that any title marked with ** is a contribution from a travel blogger, Dagney.

Historical Fiction Books Set In Iceland

Icelandic Fiction Translated Into English by Victoria Cribb

Moonstone is an eclectic Iceland novel where magical realism meets historical fiction.

Teenage Máni Steinn is trying to find his place in the world.  Yet, Iceland, and Reykjavík especially, is under attack.  Watch as Katla erupts. The “Spanish flu” is killing thousands of people. WWI promises invasion. 

How does a young boy escape? 

With the movies, of course.

To make matters even more complicated, Máni is gay.  Unfortunately, society punishes same-sex relationships. 

Even worse, politicians and residents scapegoat the pictures as indulgent and corrupt.  Fevered dreams, magical realism, and history merge to create an artistic Icelandic novella. 

Máni must persevere to help and work in a culture that wishes he’d just disappear.

Beautifully written, Sjón’s  Moonstone  is allegorical, intense, and compelling. 

A statement about a young boy surviving widespread flu versus another gay man dying of AIDS offers readers a powerful statement on prejudice and misconception. 

Moonstone is a book set in Iceland that addresses larger political issues and the LGBT+ community.

Sjón is a famous Icelandic author, and if you enjoy Greek mythology , be sure to check out Sjón’s The Whispering Muse .

Find your copy of  Moonstone by Sjon here:  Amazon

The Blue Fox by Sjón**

Iceland Book Translated by Victoria Cribb

This beautiful novel is set in Iceland, 1883.  Follow the lives of a priest, a fox, a naturalist, and a young woman with Down’s Syndrome. Their lives are inescapably intertwined against the harsh Icelandic winter.

The Blue Fox  is challenging and relentlessly tragic.  Sjon’s delicate prose takes you on a bewitching journey. Find hints of  Moby Dick ,  White Fang , and  Burial Rites.  This lyrical novel will leave you guessing until its last breath.

Discover even more books set on islands big and small .

Find your copy of  The Blue Fox  by Sjón here:    Amazon

Icelandic Novels For And About Women

Burial Rites  is one of those Icelandic novels that will keep you thinking long after you close the book. 

Based on a true story, Kent imbues humanity into accused murderess, Agnes Magnúsdóttir, the last person executed in Iceland.

Caught up in a deadly love story, Agnes is convicted for her role in the savage murders of Natan Ketilsson and Pétur Jónsson at Illugastaðir in 1828.

Set in a harsh and frigid Icelandic backdrop, Agnes must await her beheading in a family home at Kornsá. Breathe in the smell of dung and dull repetition of farm life. 

Watch the downfall of an intelligent, intimidating woman. We know this spinster tale all too well.

Just as the Northern Lights ignite magic in the sky, Agnes gains empathy from unlikely characters.  The assistant priest and her now familial wardens care for her. 

Learn Agnes’ side of the story amid illegitimacy, child mortality, and wandering eyes. 

For a book set in Iceland,  Burial Rites  will spark your historical wanderlust. And, for winter-set books , it’s extremely atmospheric.

Save This Icelandic Reading List For Later

Icelandic Fiction Translated Into English by Brian FitzGibbon

Content/Trigger Warnings:  Rape, abuse, incest, child death, abandonment, and murder

Did you ever have a love-strongly dislike relationship with a book?  Woman at 1,000 Degrees  is an almost unheard-of story about an Icelandic family fighting for Hitler during WWII.

A brutally honest and vile historical fiction Iceland novel, learn about Herra’s youth as a displaced child of war. Readers will both champion and despise Herra as a mother, lover, child, and storyteller.

Emotionally draining yet powerful, Herra’s character is based loosely on the first Icelandic Prime Minister’s granddaughter.

Best Books About Iceland

The Fish Can Sing by Halldór Laxness **

Álfgrímur is an orphan who has been raised by a kind elderly couple in Brekkukot, a rural Icelandic village.

He wants nothing more than to follow in his adoptive grandfather’s footsteps and become a fisherman. That is, until, world-famous Icelandic singer, Gardar Holm recognizes Álfgrímur’s musical talents.

Like many of Laxness’ Icelandic novels,  The Fish Can Sing  is a bit of a slow burn. 

The novel lovingly crafts a portrait of life in rural Iceland against the stark modernity of Reykjavik and beyond. The prose itself is as alluring as Álfgrímur’s voice. 

The Fish Can Sing  is sure to have you booking a trip to Iceland ASAP. 

Find your copy of  The Fish Can Sing  here: Amazon

Independent People by Halldór Laxness

Halldór is a Nobel Prize-winning Icelandic author infamous for writing books about Iceland with a funny yet intellectual and historic flair.

Independent People is nostalgic of both Iceland’s Sagas as well as Sigrid Undset’s  Kristin Lavransdatter –a trilogy of historical novels about Northern life in the Middle Ages.

After years as a servant, Bjartur wants to raise his sheep in simple peace.

Meanwhile, his daughter would also like to live unchained to Bjartur. A darky comedic novel about love, independence, and family, Independent People is a touching and telling book set in Iceland.

Find a copy of Independent People here: Amazon

Angels of the Universe by Einar Mar Gudmundsson **

Translated by Bernard Scudder

This bizarre and delightful book set in Iceland takes place in Klepp, an Icelandic psychiatric facility.  The story follows schizophrenic Paul as he grapples with reality.

Paul recounts his life growing up as he gradually descends into madness.  The novel jumps back and forth between the past and present, helping to highlight Paul’s erratic mind.  The prose flirts with surrealism.

Angels of the Universe  itself is profound, hilarious, and deeply heartbreaking. Read this Icelandic novel for insight into mid-to-present Icelandic history, as well as a taste of Icelandic humor. 

Find your copy of  Angels of the Universe  here:   Amazon  

One of the most important books about Iceland, the Sagas showcase the lives of the Norse men and women who arrived in Iceland and eventually migrated across Greenland into North America.

Considered one of the greatest medieval literary treasures, these ten Icelandic Sagas follow explorers such as Leif Eiriksson and the Vikings to the New World.

Find uniquely modern and relevant elements as well as themes of love, hate, and exploration.

Find a copy of The Sagas of Icelanders here: Amazon

Contemporary Icelandic Fiction

Icelandic Fiction Translated In English by Brian FitzGibbon

One of the most relatable Icelandic novels, meet twenty-two-year-old Lobbi who is facing his own quarter-life crisis. 

Lobbi’s mother dies in a tragic car accident.  Obsessed with death and the carnal body, Lobbi is completely lost. 

With a devastated father and an autistic twin brother, Lobbi learns he is also a father.  Flóra Sól is the product of a one-night stand.

Fleeing to find himself, Lobbi leaves behind his mother’s beloved Icelandic greenhouse.  His new life mission is to tend to a dead monastic garden in an unknown country. 

Making friends with an alcoholic monk, Lobbi learns about grief, life, and love through movies.

Quiet but poetic,  The Greenhouse  is a meditation on finding oneself.  Although Icelandic fiction, readers transcend the body and borderlines. 

Characters learn and overcome in numerous ‘religious’ forms. 

Mundane life in the form of flowers and household chores defines Lobbi’s familial role.  Finding solace in discomfort heals. 

The ending is anything but perfect; Lobbi surprises even the reader in this gorgeously poignant Icelandic book. Read more books with green in the title . 

Find your copy of  The Greenhouse here:    Amazon  

101 Reykjavik by Hallgrímur Helgason**

Translated Iceland Fiction by Brian FitzGibbon

This Icelandic black comedy certainly isn’t for everyone.

Protagonist Hlynur is a 30-something loner.  He still lives at home with no intention of doing anything else. Soon, Hlynur’s mother comes out as a lesbian.  He falls in love with her new girlfriend.

Because Hlynur never leaves his room, the book itself feels very claustrophobic.  Yet, the Icelandic novel is wildly unpredictable good fun.

For those who enjoy Irvine Welsh or Bret Easton Ellis, Helgason has created an Icelandic book sure to thrill . 

Icelandic Thrillers And Mysteries

One of my to-be-read Iceland books, Jar City is a Reykjavik thriller and murder mystery.

Inspector Erlendur opens an unsolved crime after coming across a dead body of an older man. The killer has left a note and photograph of a young girl’s grave, hinting that something more is going on here.

Erlendur must uncover more than just the mystery behind this murder.

Find your copy of Jar City here: Amazon

Science Fiction Novels Set In Iceland

Translated by Victoria Cribb

Indridi and Sigrid are the equivalents of Icelandic science fiction millennials.  They live in a cordless and wireless world where data is transmitted via birdwaves.

Their entire lives are now premeditated. Sounds like M.T. Anderson’s Feed , right?!

The impersonal, borderline obsessed, and super genius, LoveStar is responsible.  He has socially engineered society and its hidden miseries.  LoveStar is a techie version of Mark Zuckerberg.

Along with disintegrating bodies into shooting stars upon death and rewinding bad children, LoveStar has calculated the perfect mate for each individual.

Madly in love, this new pairing tests Indridi and Sigrid’s relationship.  Society and its not-so-subliminal messaging threaten to tear them apart.  Whatever happened to free will?

Magnason questions the meaning of happiness and the effects of social engineering.  A science fiction book set in Iceland, watch all-consuming love fall apart under the Northern Lights. 

Innovative and quirky, question how technology and consumerism play a role in our lives. 

Find your copy of  LoveStar  here:    Amazon  

Nonfiction Books Set In Iceland

 Names for the Sea Strangers in Iceland by Sarah Moss

If you are looking for an Iceland novel written by an expatriate, you’ll love Moss.

After road-tripping across Iceland in her youth, Sarah Moss moves her family back to the land of fire and ice. 

Hoping to recapture her romanticized version of the island, she instead learns what it means to be an expat in her Icelandic nonfiction novel, Names for the Sea .

As an academic and writer, Moss embraces Icelandic culture and traditions with curiosity.  Her public servant’s salary as a teacher enforces a life of simplicity. 

Desiring to understand both Icelandic history and its present state during a financial crisis and volcanic eruption, Moss must push through the hardships of daily Icelandic life.

Beautifully written, Names for the Sea asks readers to consider how we travel and build community.  Does our nationality define us? How so?  Are we always outsiders? 

Delving into the meaning of identity and foreignness, Moss works hard to make Iceland her home. Read More→

Iceland Travel Books

Rick Steves Iceland – Join Rick Steves with this Iceland travel book. He’ll provide a wide array of tips from glacier hiking to how to save money in the infamously expensive Icelandic city of Reykjavik. Lonely Planet Iceland – One of our favorite Iceland travel guides, Lonely Planet offers both history and itineraries filled with a ton of personality. See what to skip, must-sees, and a few hidden gems in Iceland.

Lonely Planet Best Of Iceland – Even though Iceland appears smaller than some countries, there is still so much to explore. LP suggests some of its favorites in this Iceland travel book filled with must-sees.

Lonely Planet’s Iceland’s Ring Road – When we visited Iceland, we loved driving along the southern part of Ring Road. Discover LP’s recommendations for Ring Road road trip itineraries.

Along with Iceland, travel to some of our favorite European countries via a good book:

Iceland captured our hearts and souls; the landscape is just utterly breathtaking, and we’d never seen seals out in the wild let alone glaciers or both together until Iceland. Add in the Northern Lights and black sand beaches , and it was love at first sight. A few of our other favorite European destinations include Scotland , Italy , Greece , and the Baltics .

Enhance your trip and spark your wanderlust to Europe with these additional reading lists :

• Baltic Books To Read Before You Go – Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia are unique and lesser-frequented Eastern European countries filled with a rich literary history like Iceland. Everyone knows Tallinn, Estonia, but what about those other gems? Get to know the Baltics through their literature and top authors.
• Books To Inspire Scotland Travel – Similar to these novels set in Iceland, our Scotland reading list is sure to introduce you to local authors. Spark a bit of wanderlust for those gorgeous Highlands. Then, travel to Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness, solving mysteries and falling in love.
• Best Books About Italy For Wanderlust – Italy runs through our veins – and we still have family members living there. Explore the best fiction and nonfiction books about Italy from a variety of authors to make your trip more authentic and teach you more.
• Best Books To Read Before Going To Greece – We honeymooned in Greece and Turkey, eating terrific food and catching stunning views in Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and Istanbul. Up your knowledge of Greece with these fiction and nonfiction books.

What Are Your Favorite Books Set In Iceland?

Our favorite Icelandic books are Burial Rites , Names For The Sea, and LoveStar. Sjón is eccentric and unique. What are some of the best books about Iceland that you have read? What Icelandic author or book would you add to this list? Let us know in the comments!

Inspired To Visit Iceland?  Save This Iceland Reading List Or Your Favorite Iceland Novel For Later.

European Book Lists You Might Enjoy:

• Chilly Books About Switzerland
• Books About France To Take You There
• Spain Books Reading List
• Norwegian Books To Read Now
• Swedish Novels

Christine Frascarelli

Christine (she/her) is the owner, lead editor, and tipsy book sommelier of The Uncorked Librarian LLC, an online literary publication showcasing books and movies to inspire travel and home to the famed Uncorked Reading Challenge.

With a BA in English & History from Smith College, an MLIS from USF-Tampa, and a U.S. Fulbright Fellowship in Christine's back pocket, there isn't a bookstore, library, or winery that can hide from her. Christine loves brewery yoga, adopting all of the kitties, and a glass of oaked Chardonnay. Charcuterie is her favorite food group.

Dagney McKinney

Dagney (pronouns: any) is a neurodivergent writer and book nerd who is drawn to all things weird and macabre. She also loves anything to do with fast cars, unhinged anti-heroes, and salt. When she isn’t working or reading, you’re likely to find her eating Indian food, playing board games, or hiding out somewhere dark and quiet, stuck down an internet rabbit hole. The easiest way to win her over is through cats and camels.

18 Comments

You forgot to add the collection “Out of the Blue: New Short Fiction from Iceland”!

Thanks so much for your recommendation!

I would love to go to Iceland!

I hope that you make it there one day. Iceland is truly one of my favorite countries that we have visited so far. For now, definitely be sure to pick up one of these books set in Iceland to spark your wanderlust.

I love that you paired your travel with books set in Iceland, that is so cool! I am glad you had a good time and can’t wait to hear all about your trip! Thanks for the book recommendations, book bestie!

Thank you! I loved reading about fictional Iceland and then having some of those locations come alive. These types of book lists will be the new book and travel norm for 2019 on TUL as I ‘niche down.’ Glad to know that you enjoyed the new content. Much, much appreciated.

I cannot wait to share my own tales from Iceland. Have a great rest of the week, book bestie!

Thanks for including me in this. I love a good book list. And hey, it turns out I read some stuff that isn’t totally depressing!

So I know I’ve already read over half of these books and I have a reading list as long as Africa, buuuut… I totally want to read the ones I haven’t already read. I think Moonstone is definitely top of the list.

Also, is it weird that I’m jealous there are people who get to experience Burial Rites for the first time? That’s weird, right?

I’m so excited to see more of your Iceland posts! It’s a place we both want to go back to, despite our first trip there together being a bit of a disaster. So could probably use some travel inspiration!

Thanks so much for contributing, again! I could not have done this Icelandic book list without you.

I am still reading a few Icelandic books not yet on this list too. I’ve loved everything.

Moonstone is incredibly short. You could easily read the title in one sitting–it’s a unique novella. I found the graphic sexual scenes a bit off-putting (just wasn’t expecting some of them and not quite my thing in literature), but I get why they were there. The rest of the narrative falls into this bizarre but well done magical realism vs realistic fiction plot. Sjon really nails a timeframe and social commentary on being gay in a world that is less than accepting. I think you will love this one.

I enjoyed Buriral Rites way more than I thought that I would. What a brutal way to go. I am interested in learning more about the murdered parties too. Seemed like an eccentric bunch…or maybe just for that time period.

Still waiting to hear about this Icelandic disaster. Dish! (Unless you did on FB and it failed to notify me…what a mess there.) I just did some planning for my Iceland posts. Time to get writing. I got distracted by international commission laws and taxes today. Fun, fun.

Great set of books! I would love to visit Iceland someday, but I would need to plan a trip to a hot destination right after to thaw out. ?I’d read these books even without visiting Iceland. Looking forward to more pictures of Iceland and all the boozy details.

At one point, we were walking around Thingvellir National Park–and I just couldn’t do it anymore. My toes and hands had gone completely numb. I didn’t find the cold that bad most of the time, but occasionally, I thought my nose might fall off my face.

When we got back to FL, though, it was 83 and humid….so I thawed fast.

Thank you! I hope you make it to Iceland one day! Go in the summer and see the puffins for me.

Amazeballs as usual. I am all hyped for our vacay in November and after this I am all about Iceland!! Totally want to go now . Love your pics. Am going to jump on one of these reads, asap

Where is your vacation in November? Are you going to Iceland?

Thank you! Let me know which title you decide to pick up and what you think.

I really want to read Burial Rites – I’ve heard nothing but good things! I will be sure to give it a read before I visit Iceland. Great post Christine!

Thanks, Crystal! I think out of all these titles, you might love Burial Rites the most. As your fellow dark tourism blogger, you’ll have to check with Dagney too! I know she also read Kent’s book. I loved Burial Rites, and it was a great one to start this list with since it is based on true events. The title has a twinge of feminist appeal too.

I kept thinking about your door warning and weighing down my car while in Iceland. We sat on a hill in Vik to watch the Northern Lights. It was around midnight, and I swear I thought the winds would blow us right off the cliffs–I’ve never seen winds that strong that weren’t part of a Florida hurricane. It was wild weather.

Burial Rites is hands down the best book on this list. Not that I don’t love the other ones I wrote about, but Burial Rites definitely for the win. I was skeptical to read it because of the hype I’d heard around it, but I sucked it up, and it was so worth it.

Weren’t they making a movie too? Did it ever come out? I want to say it hasn’t yet?! Not that I’d want them to ruin it for me, but it could be good.

I will definitely check it out! did you carry heavy suitcases and things in your trunk for safety? glad you made it through Iceland safe! Those heavy winds sounds scary!

I wish!!! So we actually paid for checked bags…and then didn’t check on them on the way there because we had 8 AM Blue Lagoon tickets. We knew that we might have to dash from the airport to the Blue Lagoon. We packed light carryons only. It made traveling easy as heck…but we could have blown away. lol

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Why You Should Go to Iceland in the Off-Season

From chasing waterfalls to watching the northern lights, Iceland is jaw-dropping—and a lot less visited—September to May. Our writer mapped out the perfect trip.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

There’s a saying in Iceland that’s sort of the country’s unofficial motto: Þetta reddast (sounds like “thetta rettast”). Like so many Icelandic words there isn’t a direct translation into English, but the essence of it is, “Ehhh, it’ll be fine…” My good friend Pétur Magnusson , who lives in Reykjavik, tells me, “It’s a big part of our national identity. It’s what we say when we’re rolling with what’s going on, in the face of any kind of adversity.” It’s not as passive as it sounds, though. Rather, it’s about accepting the things you can’t control, and pivoting to adapt and alter the things you can.

This is sage advice for first-timers visiting one of the most rugged and remote island countries in the world. To call the weather “unpredictable” would be generous, and you never know what strange obstacles you might encounter—hello, volcanoes. There have been ongoing eruptions in the town of Grindavik in southern Iceland and tourists have been advised to avoid that area. But the rest of the country is open and if you’re willing to embody the Þetta reddast spirit, you’ll have an incredible time in an otherworldly place, especially if you’re game to travel to Iceland in the off-season.

In October, I finally went to scope it out for myself. My aforementioned buddy Pétur was born and raised in Iceland before moving to California where he and I became friends in high school. He moved back during the pandemic, so I took the rare opportunity to see this majestic place through a local’s eyes. I spent two weeks traveling all over with him and other friends, pivoting a lot, experiencing weird weather, taking thousands of photos, and having an absolute blast. Here’s what I learned.

Why Travel to Iceland in the Shoulder Season?

An Icelandic adventure in the off-season (roughly autumn and spring) has a few distinct advantages:

It’s markedly cheaper.

While flights to Iceland are usually reasonable (I flew Iceland Air , which has a ton of direct flights from the U.S.), life on the ground can be pretty pricey. Accommodations, rental vehicles, tours, and just about everything that isn’t edible is less expensive if you don’t go during the summertime rush.

There are a heck of a lot less people.

Speaking of rush, you will see noticeably fewer tourists in the off-season. That translates to less-crowded trails, better photographs, and critically, easier last-minute bookings—key to your ability to adapt to changing conditions and still get the most out of your trip. More on that in a bit.

You actually get to see the Aurora Borealis.

You can usually only view the Northern Lights in the off-season. Iceland is so far north that during the summer high-season, the sky never gets dark enough for the aurora borealis to be visible. Iceland is one of the best places on the entire planet to see the lights, so if that’s on your bucket list, then bundle up and visit in the off season. (Stay tuned for specific recommendations on where to view them.)

Know Before You Go: Tips for Shoulder-Season Visits

Of course, visiting Iceland during shoulder season isn’t without its challenges. First and foremost, there’s the weather. Battered by the Atlantic Ocean just south of the Arctic Circle, you’re more likely to encounter rain, snow, and the notorious wind in colder months. Days are shorter, too, so you’ll want to get after it early.

Gear You Should Pack for Iceland

Layers will most definitely be your friend. And bring plenty. My daily outfit consisted of:

• Thermal tops and bottoms
• Thick wool hiking socks
• Pair of Altra Lone Peak hiking boots
• Smartwool hoodie
• REI XeroDry GTX Gore-Tex rainproof pants (also a good windblocker)
• Pair of Mountain Hardware Boundary Ridge gloves
• Super-warm wind/rain-proof Helly Hansen Tromsoe Jacket
• Wind-proof Mountain Hardware Dome Perignon Pro hat

With that kit, I was plenty toasty even when the rain came down nearly sideways.

Get Your Tech Dialed: Oh, and make sure you bring a power adapter, because Iceland uses European plugs. I’d recommend grabbing at least one or two, plus an extension cord with a three-way splitter so you can charge up more gadgets at once.

Now, the fun stuff.

Getting Around Iceland: The Best Transportation Options

Iceland is one of those countries where you really want to have your own wheels. There are buses here and there, but if you’re chasing rugged adventures, vehicular autonomy is a must. Of course you could join a tour group, but then you’re stuck with someone else’s agenda and schedule, and you’ll likely be surrounded by tourists.

Be Sure to Rent the Right Rig

Selecting a vehicle plays a significant role in where you can and can’t go. Once the colder months hit, the roads get icy and snowy. Even if you plan to stay in hotels and avoid sleeping in your vehicle, I strongly recommend you rent a rig with all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive that has burly tires to match and that comes with ample clearance. This will enable you to drive safely off the beaten path and check out more of the country, with even fewer tourists around during the day. (As a starting point, check out MyCar Iceland , which features a fleet of different 4WD-equipped Toyotas starting from $84 per day.)

For a Bed on Wheels, Consider a Campervan or 4X4 with a Rooftop Tent

Cruising around Iceland by campervan or a rig with a rooftop tent is another solid option. You’ll see tons of these on the road, as most outdoor adventure enthusiasts go this route. There are a lot of cool camp spots all around the island, and combining your accommodations with your wheels can be a huge cost saver. Just make sure the van you’re renting has some sort of heater (diesel or propane) and make sure it has AWD or 4WD (again, plus rugged tires and clearance). If you opt for a rooftop tent, make sure you visit in the (warmer) colder months, like September and May, otherwise sleeping on top of your car in winds and frigid temps will be brutal otherwise.

No matter what, read reviews of your outfitter before you commit, because some offer SOS services—in varying degrees of reliability—and you don’t want to deal with a breakdown when you’re deep in Iceland’s backcountry.

Most campervans and roof tent rigs come with bedding, a camp kitchen, stove and fuel, and a plug-in cooler, all of which help facilitate maximum autonomy. For a small upcharge, you can opt for a WiFi router, which makes booking last-minute campsites and navigation easier. (As a starting point, check out Rent for rooftop tent and campervan options. Prices vary.)

Stay on Top of Your Road Conditions Beta

Whichever vehicle you choose, the UMFERDIN website shows up-to-date road conditions and closures, and will save you essential time.

And be careful out there. Know your driving skills, and the limits of the vehicle you’re renting, and make sure the tires have tread that can handle the conditions you’ll encounter. If in doubt, don’t be an idiot and drive it .

Eating in Iceland: Always Expensive, Rarely Fantastic

Now would be a good time to mention food, and it’s not great news. For starters, grub in Iceland is almost universally pricey, owing largely to the fact that nearly everything has to be imported. It’s also not exactly a foodie haven (with some notable exceptions), so I’d recommend stocking up at a supermarket, like Bonus or Krónan, before you leave Reykjavik. Aside from staples like PB&J, grab an assortment of Icelandic yogurt (a.k.a. skyr). It’s delicious.

Don’t miss the cod jerky, either, which my friend Pétur says is commonly dragged across a tub of Icelandic butter when you eat it. (I tried it, and can confirm it’s indeed tasty.) I also found the sweetest, crunchiest carrots I’ve ever had in my life, and you’ll want to try (or at least force yourself to try) the divisive, salted black licorice (aka salmiakbitar ) the island is famous for.

When You Arrive in Iceland

You’ll land at Keflavík International Airport. If you’re coming from the U.S. you’ll likely arrive early in the morning on a red-eye, and may be very discombobulated. If so, and you’ve got the time, take it easy on your first day there by checking out the Reykjanes peninsula. Then, head to Reykjavik to scope out some of the museums and cultural sites (see below for specifics).

Must-Dos on the Reykjanes Peninsula

The 40-minute drive from the airport to the capital city is also absolutely stunning. You’ll pass fields of lava rock that seem to go on forever, and zip by the Instagram-famous Blue Lagoon . (Note: every Icelandic person I met rolled their eyes at it, though. It’s pretty, but overpriced, from $72, and loaded with tourists. It may also be closed depending on nearby volcanic eruptions.)

If you somehow manage to sleep on the plane and want to hit the ground running, there are a ton of cool spots right on the Reykjanes peninsula before you get to Reykjavik. Don’t miss:

• Seltún Geothermal Area , with sulfury, bubbling, steaming mineral pools
• Krísuvíkurberg Cliffs , with a sheer drop into the pounding ocean below. (It’s so abrupt it looks like the ground just snapped off.)
• Reykjanes Lighthouse , right next to the beautiful rocky shore of Valahnúkamöl—both well worth exploring.

I had an absolutely incredible lobster soup at the Café Bryggjan in Grindavík, but unfortunately between then and writing this piece, a cluster of earthquakes and several nearby volcanic eruptions has effectively brought the quaint fishing village to its knees. The town literally sunk several feet and now has a deep, 1.2-mile long fissure running through the middle of it. Its future is currently unknown. Again, why you have to be ready to adapt in Iceland.

Explore Iceland’s Capital: What to See and Do in Reykjavik

Hit Up a Street Vendor or Restaurant for a Hot Dog: When you get to Reykjavik, first things first: Get yourself a hot dog. I regret to inform you, my fellow Americans, that we have been surpassed in hotdoggery, and not by a little. Icelandic dogs have crispy fried onions, multiple sauces, soft buns, and snappy wieners. I ate them almost every day.

Scope Out the Historic Downtown: Work off the hotdogs by checking out the historic downtown area on foot. The Einar Jónsson Museum features some statues that would make Rodin jealous, and there’s a lot to see around the waterfront, including the massive Harpa Concert Hall.

Visit a Real Locals’ Hot Spring: If you’re craving some hot spring action, check out one of the dozens of public pools (like Laugardalslaug , for roughly $10 per entry) in Reykjavik. No, they’re not glamorous like the aforementioned Blue Lagoon, but all of the heating in Iceland (including hot water) comes from geothermal activity. The water is high in mineral content and it’s deeply soothing. The pools are a massive part of the culture there and they feature several hot tubs at different temperatures, saunas, cold plunges, and even some waterslides.

Just make sure you adhere closely to the showering instructions (i.e. shower naked beforehand and wash your whole body with soap). The waters there are considered sacred to the locals, and disrespecting them by not following pre-soak protocol is one of the rare ways to piss Icelanders off. The public pools are also for socializing, and you’re likely to meet some friendly folks who may offer you insider tips. Effectively everybody in Iceland speaks English, but if you learn a few basic phrases in Icelandic before you show up, it’ll go a long way.

Dine Out on Lamb Stew: For dinner, grab yourself lamb stew (known as Kjötsúpa, an Icelandic specialty), and pass out for the night before you hit the road bright and early.

The Shoulder-Season Adventure Itinerary for Iceland Newbies

As cool as Reykjavik is, that’s not what you came for, is it? Here’s what I did. My play-by-ear trip turned into a nice little loop through the west and south, though I recommend you use these ideas more for activity inspiration as opposed to an exact prescription. After all, no two days in the shoulder season are the same and there are endless possibilities. Here were my highlights:

Day 1: Hit Up Some Waterfalls and Hot Springs

Out of the city, our first big stop was Barnafoss, a couple hours northeast of Reykjavik, an utterly massive conglomeration of waterfalls. (FYI, “foss” means waterfall in Icelandic.) If there’s wind, wear your waterproof layers because the mist will soak you to the bone. It’s almost overwhelming to see so many waterfalls from one vantage point, and it’s an excellent place to work on your long exposure photography. (I recommend a tripod and a variable ND filter, along with a few absorbent lens-wipes.)

From there, we backtracked 20 minutes west and hit the natural hot springs at Krauma ($50). It’s not as Instagrammable as the Blue Lagoon (phones are actually discouraged at both), but you’ll find a nice array of geothermally heated tubs and saunas, along with traditional cold plunges. Plus, the mountainscape views are lovely.

Then, head west and drive out onto the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It’s a 55-mile strip of land that is basically a photographic sample platter of Iceland, including lava fields, waterfalls, epic black sand beaches, fjord views, hot springs, and the imposing Snaefellsjökull glacier volcano. I found the lava fields to be particularly gripping, with bright green moss covering an endless sea of black boulders.

We spent that night at the Fosshotel in Hellnar (“Oh hell nar,”) which was modest but clean, and it had some gorgeous ocean views (from $125 USD a night in the off-season).

Day 2: Hike the Rugged Coastline

From there we set out to the western tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula stopping at a few viewpoints around Londrangar, where you can stand atop some of the most rugged coastline you’ll ever see, featuring massive blue waves pounding jagged volcanic rock spires.

Make your way down to Djúpalónssandur Beach and the Djúpalón Lagoon, where you can hike along a shore covered with smooth, marble-like pebbles and a pool that looks like a prehistoric creature could emerge from it at any moment. This whole area gives strong “Land Before Time” vibes.

After that, we headed back east along the northern border of the peninsula, stopping at the stunning Bæjarfoss waterfall just outside of Ólafsvík. My buddy Pétur didn’t even get out of his car for that one. There are roughly 10,000 waterfalls in Iceland, many of them jaw-dropping, and apparently this wasn’t that exciting by his local standards.

We also swung by the Súgandisey Island Lighthouse, on the northernmost part of the peninsula, where we were greeted with a rainbow, and intense wind. We spent that night at the Hotel Varmaland in Borgarnes (from $250), where I had a deliciously savory lamb steak for dinner.

Day 3: Trek to Less-Visited, Off-Road Waterfalls

Our next day was all about chasing more waterfalls. The first stop? The small but isolated Fitjarfoss. We were the only ones there, and it was incredibly tranquil. That was just a warmup, though, for the far more challenging four-mile hike to Glymur Falls, which is the second tallest waterfall in the country, at a staggering 650 feet. It’s a slippery and steep hike that involves at least one river crossing and a few scrambles over significant exposure—we’re talking hundreds of feet straight down to the rocky river below. It’s not for the faint of heart, but absolutely gorgeous on the ascent.

Unfortunately, the crossing was washed out when we visited, so we hiked up the near side of the river as far as we could go. Luckily, Pétur had a drone that could fly the rest of the way and get some great shots. Still, it was 100% worth it.

We then made our way to a gorgeous complex of outdoor hot springs called Laugarvatn Fotana Geothermal Bathsa (from roughly $35 per adult). It’s right on Laugarvatn Lake so we alternated between hot soaks and saunas and natural icy plunges—the perfect remedy for our aching joints.

Day 4: Visit the Highlights of the Golden Circle

The next part of our plan was to take a ferry out to the stunning Westman Islands, but nature had other ideas. 60 mph winds and 18-foot sea swells not only made the passage unappealing, but impossible, as ferry service was canceled for several days. But this is where having more options in shoulder season really comes in clutch. We were able to cancel all our reservations, and because virtually every hotel in the country had vacancies, we just headed away from the wind.

We bet that the harsher weather would equal fewer tourists, so we hit some of the more popular spots along the famous Golden Circle—the most visited day-trip-style route outside of Reykjavik, if you don’t have time to drive the whole Ring Road around the island.

This portion of our trip included visiting the absolutely massive, Niagara-ish waterfall, Gullfoss. Sure, there were still plenty of tourists, and the wind stirred up the mist which made it feel like it was raining, but it’s a breathtaking thing to behold.

Nearby, there’s also Geysir, which—fun fact—is the geyser that gave all other geysers their name. It’s Icelandic for “to gush.” It’s only erupted twice in the last 25 years, but the adjacent Strokkur geyser goes off roughly every 10 minutes about 60 to 120 feet into the air, and still puts on a killer show. The whole area has a lot of cool geothermal features with a sort of Icelandic Yellowstone vibe, and you can hike all around the area to get a bunch of vantage points.

It’s also well worth visiting Thingvellir National Park , a stunning area where all the old clans of Iceland used to meet annually to decide the laws and policies for the upcoming year. It also has a lake, waterfalls, and a museum with tons of artifacts. This place is steeped in history (some of it tragic) and is a sacred place to Icelanders, so be on your best, most respectful behavior here.

Day 5: Surf Your Heart Out

Surfing the Icelandic coast was one bucket-list item I thought I’d never get to check off. In the weeks leading up to my trip, though, I started reading articles about how the best, most-consistent wave in the whole country was at risk of being demolished. The point at Þorlákshöfn (near Thorli Beach) is an incredible, peeling right-hander that just goes and goes like a good day at Malibu. Unlike Malibu, though, you’re likely to have four, not 400, other people in the lineup. It’s been a secret spot for ages, but the mayor of the town of Þorlákshöfn (and other city council members) seem intent on filling it in with boulders to make room for more warehouses around an expanded harbor. So the local surfers decided it’s better to tell the world than risk its destruction. Unfortunately, the town started filling it in already, despite not yet having environmental permits to alter the coastline, and that has abruptly cut off the end section of the wave. It’s tragic. Watch more on the save-the-wave initiative, here:

I reached out to Steinarr Lár, one of the surfers leading the fight to save the wave that is at the very center of Icelandic surf culture and community. He was gracious enough to lend me a board, a thick wetsuit, booties, and gloves, though if you want to experience surfing Iceland for yourself, link up with Arctic Surfers , which organizes surf tours (starting from $350 per day) and can provide you with everything you’ll need. They’re also deeply involved in activism surrounding the wave.

After suiting up in the parking lot, I scrambled over about 80 yards of slippery, seaweed-covered boulders, and then it was pure magic. The waves were between three and four feet tall, with a gentle paddle in, and they ran for nearly a full minute (apparently longer on bigger days). The locals were friendly, the wetsuit kept me plenty warm, and we all got enough waves to turn our arms to spaghetti.

It’s an incredible natural resource, and the idea of it being filled in to fill a few people’s pockets is frankly outrageous, in my opinion. Go surf it while you can and spread the word.

Days 6 and 7: Treat Yourself to a Northern Lights Wake-Up Call

After roughing it for several days, I decided to opt for some luxury. My friend Pétur, who works for a tourism company , says that whenever people’s top priority is seeing the Northern Lights, he books them at the Hotel Rangá (pronounced ron-cow, from $340 per night in shoulder season) because it’s sort of isolated on a big dark plane. Think: 360-degree views. It also has an observatory for stargazing when the lights aren’t visible, and there’s a button on your phone to order a wake-up call in the middle of the night should the lights pop up. It was easily the nicest place I stayed during my entire trip, and it’s a perfect base camp for all south-coast adventures.

Iceland’s version of upscale is different from what you might expect, coming from the U.S. If you have Four Seasons or Ritz expectations, you may be surprised to find that things are a bit more low-key here. Hotel Rangá is still very nice, but it’s more rustic and minimalist—at least in the more basic rooms. (The master suites are each decked out like a different continent and they went all-out.)

That said, its restaurant featured the tastiest food I ate the entire time, with exquisite, tender lamb, fish, and even reindeer carpaccio. They can also organize a candle-lit dinner in a grass-covered cave that used to be an ancient dwelling centuries ago. It’s a must-stay, and wouldn’t you know it, despite none being forecast, we managed to see the aurora on two of the nights we crashed there.

My phone rang around 11 P.M. and I was told the lights were visible. I had pre-arranged many layers of clothes and all my camera gear, just in case. So I threw it all on, rushed out the door, and wow, the sky was lit up with waving, green curtains. There’s a river and a pond behind the hotel, so I played with reflections in my photos, and hooted in joy as colorful ribbons raced over the roof of the hotel. Truly, there’s no other life experience like it.

Bonus: Get Off Road to Tackle Far-Flung Backcountry Adventures

For the last few days of my trip, I wanted to get into some of the places where my friend’s little AWD hatchback couldn’t take me, so I linked up with Southcoast Adventure (also recommended by my friend’s company). We did three expeditions in three days, and each of them got me way off the beaten path. Separately, from that, I also rode some Icelandic horses. Here’s how all of that went:

Take a Buggy Tour into the Wilderness

This is one of the best ways to really get out there away from everybody else. These “buggies” are two-seat 4X4 ATVs complete with roll cages, and we headed out to Emstrur, which was an all-day adventure on dirt roads, crossing a dozen small creeks. There were waterfalls, glaciers, and stunning rock formations throughout these mountains, and we didn’t see anybody else on the long road. (Full day tours start at roughly $660, but they also have one-hour and 2.5-hour options.)

Explore the Katla Ice Caves

The next day was my favorite expedition, a trek out to explore the Katla Ice Caves (from $205 per person). This is an ever-changing system of ice caves at the end of the Myrdalsjokull glacier. It included a massive ice-arch big enough to fly a decent sized plane through, as well as the chance to explore deep into otherworldly tunnels made of light blue ice, with streams and waterfalls flowing through them.

We even got to do a bit of ice climbing. You’ll be provided with crampons, so make sure you bring boots sturdy enough to support them (this was the one day my Atras weren’t quite up to the task). On the way back we visited three more jaw-dropping waterfalls, including Gljufrabui—which is hidden in a narrow slot canyon—and Seljalandsfoss, which you can hike behind for some stunning canyon views.

Cruise Around Landmannalaugar

The last day there was spent exploring in what is affectionately known in Iceland as a SuperJeep (starting around $300). It wasn’t actually a jeep at all, but a kitted out 4WD Mercedes Sprinter van. We went deep into the interior highlands of Landmannalaugar, exploring paths cut by glaciers and massive extinct craters. Of course, there were more waterfalls (just countless!), but my highlight was a gorgeous natural hot spring in the middle of the Fjallabak Nature Reserve. It was the perfect way to relax at the end of a long trip.

Ride Iceland’s Famous Wild Horses

Of course, that isn’t the only way to relax. From Rangá you’re just a quick drive to the coast, or if you want something you truly can’t find anywhere else, go to Skeiðvellir Horse Farm (rides start around $85/person). Iceland’s horses have been isolated on the island for more than 1,000 years and they have evolved in unique ways, including developing stout bodies, luscious manes, and two specific gaits that only they can perform. They’re incredibly smooth to ride and it’s a fun way to see the grasslands of this stunning country.

Heliski Iceland’s Big Peaks March to June

There’s one more adventure I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention: heliskiing or snowboarding from the top of a peak to the shore of the Arctic Ocean. And you can do it with the boutique Viking Heliskiing operation. Based on the far north side of the island, this outfitter offers everything from three to six-day packages that include meals, rentals, avalanche gear, airport transfers, and luxurious accommodations at the Sigló Hotel . (Prices start at roughly $7,200 per person for the three-day package.)

Tragically, I didn’t get to do this myself (yet!), but from speaking with those who have (and feasting my eyes on photos and video), the terrain you’ll encounter up there is unlike anywhere else. The mountain surfaces tend to be smooth and steep, so they hold powder well and allow for massive, open-faced carves. You’re guaranteed 15,000 vertical feet a day (which is more than you get at most heliski operations), and some runs will take you all the way down to the beach. At night you can enjoy the hotel’s hot tubs, saunas, and the Northern Lights if your timing is right. The season starts in mid-March and goes until mid-June (where you may be able to ski as late as midnight). Dreamy, indeed.

The Bottom Line: I’m in Love with Off-Season Iceland

Perhaps you’ve gathered this much already, but Iceland blew my mind. And now, I really only want to come back during shoulder season. Yes, the weather was tough at times, and sure, not every road was accessible, but traveling during the shoulder season saved me money and paved the way for a better experience. Plus, you simply can’t beat having far fewer tourists around. So bundle up, plan ahead, and if you have to adapt a little? Well, Þetta reddast…

Brent Rose has been covering adventure and gear for Outside for more than a decade. When he’s not writing, you can find him surfing, snowboarding, hiking, or camping, usually somewhere in California. He’s also on Instagram at @brentdangerrose or his website at brentrose.com.

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World News | An Iceland volcano starts erupting again,…

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World News | An Iceland volcano starts erupting again, shooting lava into the sky

GRINDAVIK, Iceland — A volcano in southwestern Iceland erupted Wednesday for the fifth time since December, spewing red lava that once again threatened the coastal town of Grindavik and led to the evacuation of the popular Blue Lagoon geothermal spa.

The eruption began in the early afternoon following a series of earthquakes north of the town of 3,800 people that was largely evacuated in December when the volcano came to life after centuries of dormancy and put on an impressive show of nature’s power .

Although activity began to calm down by early evening, initial estimates found the eruption was the most vigorous in the area so far, as lava shot 50 meters (165 feet) into the sky from a fissure that grew to 3.5 kilometers (2.1 miles) in length, the Icelandic Meteorological Office said.

Barriers built to protect Grindavik deflected the flowing lava that cut off two of the three roads leading to town and was close to reaching the third.

“It’s a much larger volume that’s on the move right now headed for town,” Grindavik Mayor Fannar Jónasson told national broadcaster RUV. “The lava has already conquered (a lot).”

Workers and anyone still in town were ordered to leave earlier in the day, police said.

At one point, a dark plume of ash boiled up over the crater from an explosive interaction of magma hitting groundwater, scientists said.

The cloud did not rise high enough to initially pose any threat to aviation, but scientists were closely monitoring the situation, Jóhanna Malen Skúladóttir, of the Met Office, told RUV.

Grindavik, which is about 50 kilometers (30 miles) southwest of Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, has been threatened since a swarm of earthquakes in November forced an evacuation in advance of the initial Dec. 18 eruption . A subsequent eruption overwhelmed some defensive walls and consumed several buildings.

The area is part of the Svartsengi volcanic system that was dormant for nearly 800 years before reawakening.

The volcano erupted again in February and March. The Feb. 8 eruption engulfed a pipeline, cutting off heat and hot water to thousands of people.

Iceland, which sits above a volcanic hot spot in the North Atlantic , sees regular eruptions and is experienced at dealing with them. The most disruptive in recent times was the 2010 eruption of the Eyjafjallajokull volcano, which spewed huge clouds of ash into the atmosphere and led to widespread airspace closures over Europe.

Associated Press writer Brian Melley contributed from London.

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This Low-cost Airline Has Flights to Europe Starting at $99 — but You’ll Have to Book Soon

Play Airlines has discounted flights to Iceland, Amsterdam, London, Paris, and more until May 27.

Courtesy of PLAY Airlines

Low-cost Icelandic airline Play is celebrating the Memorial Day holiday with a flash sale that has one-way flights to Europe starting at just $99.

The sale, which must be booked by midnight ET on May 27, is valid on travel from August through December, Play shared with Travel + Leisure . The flash sale is available for travel to some of Europe’s most popular destinations from Iceland and Amsterdam to Paris and beyond.

“Summer is finally here and Play challenges travelers to get ahead on their shoulder season trips to take advantage of low prices and a calmer time of the year to visit top tourist destinations,” Einar Örn Ólafsson, Play’s CEO, told T+L. “Getaways during the fall and winter are a perfect time to unwind after a hectic summer, and Play wants to make these trips more affordable with this Memorial Day Discount to kick off summer and travel planning.”

Travelers can save big with $99 one-way flights to Iceland, or pay just $129 for one-way flights to Amsterdam, Berlin, Copenhagen, Dublin, Dusseldorf, Hamburg, London, and Paris, according to the airline. 

The sale flights are available from any of Play’s gateway airports in the United States: Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), New York Stewart International Airport (SWF), or Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD).

Exact travel dates and blackout dates vary by destination. Flights to Iceland, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, London, and Paris, for example, are valid on Mondays from Aug. 19 to Nov. 25 and from Dec. 2 to Dec. 16. Travelers must book a roundtrip flight to take advantage of the sale.

Play, which first started operating flights in Europe in 2021 before finally launching its first flight from the U.S. , operates a "hub-and-spoke model" in which all flights connect through Reykjavik before heading on to other destinations across Europe. The airline flies to more than two dozen European cities .

Play is a low-cost carrier and charges per flight leg for everything from checked bags to food and drinks.

Related Articles

A Gentleman in Moscow: What to expect from the Paramount+ series? Explored

A Gentleman in Moscow promises to be a fascinating story about a Russian Count banished to a hotel for life. The story is set against the backdrop of the Bolshevik Revolution. Ewan McGregor plays Count Alexander Rostov, a charming and well-mannered gentleman, punished to a life of confinement, in times of social and political upheaval.

The upcoming Paramount+ TV with Showtime series also stars Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Johnny Harris, Leah Harvey, and Beau Gadson in prominent roles. The eight-part mini-series will be released on Friday, March 29, 2024, with new episodes every week.

Which book is A Gentleman in Moscow based on?

The series is based on a 2016 novel of the same name by Amor Towles and revolves around a Russian count put under house arrest in a hotel attic. The book was among the New York Times bestsellers when it was released and received favorable reviews.

It was on the bestseller list for over 40 weeks, received wide critical praise, and was featured in several Best Books of the Year lists.

What is A Gentleman in Moscow TV mini-series about? Plot explored

It is set in Moscow, around the Bolshevik Revolution, when Alexander Rostow is arrested for writing counter-revolutionary poems. By the courtesy of a few powerful friends, he is spared from execution. But he is condemned to life imprisonment inside a hotel.

Count Rostow is a man of strong belief. He is always composed and is a perfect gentleman. Rostow spends decades in this hotel but never loses his refined manners. His time in the grand Hotel Metropol leads to interesting encounters and charming conversations.

This unique setting is aided by the themes of freedom and hope and is told through intriguing characters, captivating scenes, and smart dialogues.

What to expect from A Gentleman in Moscow TV mini-series?

The show looks visually stunning in the trailer, with elements of suspense, drama, comedy, and political intrigue. Here's what fans can expect from the series.

1) Suspense

The Russian Revolution was one of the most important events in the history of the world. It marked an end to the reign of the Romanovs and the beginning of socialist rule under Vladimir Lenin.

The revolution flipped the country's politics, not just with the hammer and sickle, but also with gunpowder and bullets. The powerful lost power, and the aristocracy became a symbol of vulgar opulence, class oppression, and corruption.

The story about a noble aristocrat set in that era is bound to give the audience elements of suspense. One wrong move or word can become a matter of life and death.

2) Playful relationships (young girl helping him escape the hotel)

The trailer also featured Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Beau Gadson, Leah Harvey, etc, as characters who would encounter Rostow in his imprisonment. The unusual relationships the protagonist builds with the people around him will be a source of interest for the viewers.

The trailer showed a young girl helping Rostow escape from the hotel. Would they succeed or end up in front of a firing squad?

3) Plot twist (Entry of the actress)

Mary Elizabeth Winstead plays Anna Urbanova, an actress who 'stars in bad movies', as said by one of the characters in the trailer. She catches Rostow's attention upon her arrival at The Metropol Hotel . The diva and the prisoner incite steamy stares and flirtatious exchanges. During his confinement at the Metropol, her presence stir things around.

4) Meaning and Symbolism

"They can take away everything, but they can't take away who you are."

When a nation adopts a new ideology and undergoes a socio-political transition, new symbols of unity are simultaneously created. This story, spanning over three decades primarily, revolves around the protagonist's struggle to preserve his identity against those who want to erase it.

What happens when the world you were born into becomes nothing more than a memory? In A Gentleman in Moscow, Amor Towles uses subtle moments of clever comedy to elevate the humane drama. The trailer promises to be an honest attempt to bring the brilliant book to life .

A Gentleman in Moscow will be released on Paramount+ on March 29, 2024.

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Insight Guides City Guide Moscow (Travel Guide with Free eBook) (Insight City Guides) Paperback – January 1, 2017

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Moscow is a fascinating mix of old and new, East meets West, elegance and kitsch and spirituality and dowdiness. Be inspired to visit by the new edition of City Guide Moscow, a comprehensive full-colour guide to the fascinating capital of Russia. City Guide Moscow: A fully-overhauled edition by our expert Russia author. Stunning, specially-commissioned new photography that brings this intriguing city and its people to life. Highlights of the city's top attractions, including the Red Square, The Kremlin and the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts. in our Best of Moscow. Descriptive accounts of each neighbourhood cover the whole city from the Red Square and Tverskaya and Lubyanka. The Day Trips from Moscow chapter includes the ancient cities of the Golden Ring. Detailed, high-quality maps throughout will help you get around and travel tips give you all the essential information for planning a memorable trip.

About Insight Guides: Insight Guides has over 40 years' experience of publishing high-quality, visual travel guides. We produce around 400 full-colour print guide books and maps as well as picture-packed eBooks to meet different travellers' needs. Insight Guides' unique combination of beautiful travel photography and focus on history and culture together create a unique visual reference and planning tool to inspire your next adventure.

'Insight Guides has spawned many imitators but is still the best of its type.' - Wanderlust Magazine

• Print length 256 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Insight Guides
• Publication date January 1, 2017
• Dimensions 5.5 x 0.75 x 7.75 inches
• ISBN-10 1780059388
• ISBN-13 978-1780059389
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• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Insight Guides; 2nd edition (January 1, 2017)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 256 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1780059388
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1780059389
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 15.8 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.5 x 0.75 x 7.75 inches
• #8 in Moscow Travel Guides
• #70 in General Russia Travel Guides

About the authors

Insight guides.

Insight Guides is a pioneer of full-colour guide books, with almost 50 years' experience of publishing high-quality, visual travel guides with user-friendly, modern design.

We produce around 400 full-colour print guide books and maps, as well as phrase books, picture-packed eBooks and apps to meet different travellers' needs.

Insight Guides' unique combination of beautiful travel photography and focus on history and culture create a unique visual reference and planning tool to inspire your next adventure.

insightguides.com

Dinah Gardner

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