Cost of Traveling in Iceland for 10 Days: A Comprehensive Guide

The cost of your trip to Iceland can vary significantly based on several factors such as accommodation, food, transportation, and activities, as well as the time of year. Here's a detailed breakdown of potential costs to help you plan your budget for a 10-day stay in this unique and enchanting country.

Accommodation

Accommodation is a critical factor in the overall cost of your trip, and it can range widely from budget hotels to luxury accommodations.

Budget Hotels/Hostels: You can expect to pay between $30 and $100 per night. For 10 nights, this will range from $300 to $1,000. Mid-range Hotels: Prices for mid-range hotels are between $100 and $250 per night. Over 10 nights, this could cost between $1,000 and $2,500. Luxury Hotels: If you're looking for high-end accommodation, you'll need to budget between $250 and $600 per night. For 10 nights, this can add up to $2,500 to $6,000 or more.

Food

The cost of food can also vary significantly, depending on your dining habits and preferences. Here's a breakdown of potential costs for food during your stay.

Budget: A meal consisting of quick bites or home-cooked meals from a grocery store can cost between $10 and $20. Mid-range: Casual dining restaurants typically offer meals for between $20 and $50. High-end: If you're in the mood for splurging, fine dining and high-end restaurants can cost between $50 and $150 per meal.

Considering you eat three meals a day, this will add up as follows:

Budget: Your daily food expense could range from $30 to $60, totaling $300 to $600 for 10 days. Mid-range: Daily food expenses might range from $60 to $150, adding up to $600 to $1,500 over 10 days. High-end: Eating at high-end restaurants could cost between $150 to $450 per day, summing up to $1,500 to $4,500 for 10 days.

Transportation

Transportation needs can also impact your travel budget. Depending on your mode of transportation, you can expect the following costs.

Car Rental: Renting a car can cost between $50 and $100 per day, plus gas. Over 10 days, this could total $500 to $1,000. Public Transport: Public transport is much cheaper, ranging from $10 to $30 per day. For 10 days, you can expect to spend between $100 and $300.

Choose between car rental or public transport based on your needs and preferences.

Activities

Spending on activities can also add up, depending on whether you are looking for free or paid options.

Free activities include hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying local natural wonders. These activities are generally free of charge or very inexpensive.

Paid tours such as northern lights tours and glacier hikes can cost between $50 and $200 per tour. If you plan to participate in several activities, the total can range from $200 to $1,000.

Total Estimated Costs

Considering your travel style and preferences, here are the total estimated costs for a 10-day trip in Iceland.

Style Budget Mid-range Luxury Budget Trip $1,400 - $2,900 $2,900 - $5,300 $5,300 - $12,500

Additional Considerations

Seasonality can play a significant role in the costs. Prices tend to be higher during peak tourist seasons, particularly in summer and winter. Additionally, exchange rates can fluctuate, so it's important to keep an eye on these to ensure you are getting the best deals on your trip.

Planning ahead and booking in advance can help you secure better rates and plans, making your trip smoother and less stressful.

Personal Anecdotes:

My two trips to Iceland were vastly different in cost due to my experiences and decisions.

On my first trip, I learned that hotels and dining out can be quite expensive. For example, four burgers and coffees could cost around $80.00. Later, during my second trip, I learned to splurge wisely. Staying in a farmhouse for eight days with two other couples cost around $800.00. Lower end hotels for two people can cost around $100 per night, so for two rooms, the minimum cost would be around $200.

We discovered a supermarket that sold fresh fish and seafood. My wife, being a chef, made the most of this, as lobster and crab are significantly cheaper in Iceland than in the UK. This allowed us to eat extremely well without breaking the bank. Many things like waterfalls are cheap, but activities like the Blue Lagoon spa can be quite expensive. However, the Secret Lagoon spa is a quarter of the price. Don't cut corners on experiences like snowmobiling or whale watching, which are some of Iceland's most memorable activities.