Where is Iceland Located?

by countryaah · Published December 10, 2020 · Updated December 19, 2024

Where is Iceland located on the map? Iceland is an independent nation located in Northern Europe. Check out the following images to see location of Iceland on maps.

Iceland Location in World Map

Location of Iceland in Europe

Location Information of Iceland

Iceland, a Nordic island nation, is located in the North Atlantic Ocean, just below the Arctic Circle. Known for its unique geography, including glaciers, volcanoes, and hot springs, Iceland is one of the most geologically active regions in the world. The country is an archipelago with a rugged landscape that offers breathtaking natural beauty, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking unspoiled landscapes and dramatic scenery.

Latitude and Longitude

Iceland is situated at approximately 63° N latitude and 19° W longitude. The capital city, Reykjavík, lies at 64.1355° N latitude and 21.8954° W longitude, making it the northernmost capital of any sovereign state in the world. Iceland’s location between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates contributes to its geological activity, including frequent volcanic eruptions and geothermal activity.

Capital City and Major Cities

Reykjavík (Capital City)

Reykjavík is Iceland’s capital and largest city, home to about two-thirds of the country’s population. Situated on the southwestern coast, Reykjavík is the cultural, political, and economic hub of Iceland. The city features a mix of modern architecture, historic buildings, and vibrant cultural landmarks, and it is known for its unique artistic community. Key attractions in Reykjavík include:

Hallgrímskirkja, an iconic church that offers panoramic views of the city.
Harpa Concert Hall, a striking modern building by the harbor, known for its glass façade and world-class acoustics.
National Museum of Iceland, which exhibits the rich history of Iceland from its Viking origins to the present day.

Reykjavík serves as the gateway to Iceland’s natural wonders, and many visitors use the city as a base for exploring the surrounding landscapes.

Akureyri

Akureyri, often referred to as the “Capital of North Iceland,” is the second-largest city in Iceland. Located on the northern coast, it is an important commercial and cultural center. Akureyri is known for its botanical gardens, vibrant arts scene, and scenic beauty. Some attractions include:

Akureyri Botanical Garden, which showcases a wide variety of plant species despite the region’s harsh climate.
Hlidarfjall, a popular ski resort near the city.
Akureyri Church, a striking structure that stands out in the city skyline.

Reykjanes Peninsula

Although not a city, the Reykjanes Peninsula is home to many important sites, including the Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most famous geothermal spas, and Keflavík International Airport, Iceland’s main international airport. The peninsula is a UNESCO Global Geopark, famous for its volcanic landscapes, geothermal energy production, and dramatic coastlines.

Other Notable Locations

Ísafjörður: Located in the Westfjords, this is Iceland’s largest town in the region. Known for its dramatic landscapes and vibrant fishing community, Ísafjörður is the gateway to the Westfjords’ pristine natural environment.
Reykholt: A historical site in western Iceland, known for its association with Snorri Sturluson, an Icelandic sagaman and poet.

Time Zone

Iceland follows Iceland Standard Time (IST), which is UTC +0 year-round. Unlike many other countries, Iceland does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST), meaning its time remains consistent throughout the year. This is especially noticeable in the summer, when the island experiences the midnight sun, where the sun does not fully set for several weeks.

Climate

Iceland’s climate is classified as subarctic or cold oceanic, depending on the region. Despite its location near the Arctic Circle, Iceland’s climate is relatively mild due to the influence of the Gulf Stream, a warm oceanic current from the Caribbean.

Summer (June to August)

In summer, Iceland enjoys long days with up to 24 hours of daylight in some parts of the country due to the midnight sun. Temperatures during the summer months range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) in Reykjavík, with cooler temperatures in the north and at higher altitudes. The summer is the best time to visit Iceland for outdoor activities like hiking, sightseeing, and whale watching.

Winter (November to March)

Winter in Iceland is cold and dark, with only 4–5 hours of daylight in December and January. Temperatures in the capital range from -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F), but it can feel colder due to the wind chill. The northern regions are colder, with more snow and ice. The winter season is an excellent time for travelers to see the Northern Lights, which are visible from late September to April, particularly in areas outside Reykjavík.

Rainfall

Iceland experiences frequent rainfall throughout the year, especially in the west and southwest. The weather can be highly unpredictable, with sudden changes from sunshine to rain or snow. This makes it important for visitors to be prepared for all types of weather conditions, even during the summer months.

Economic Status

Iceland is a high-income, developed country, with a small, open economy. It is one of the most prosperous nations in terms of GDP per capita, and it ranks highly on international measures of social welfare and quality of life. Iceland’s economy is heavily reliant on fishing, tourism, renewable energy, and services.

Key Economic Sectors

Fishing Industry: Iceland’s economy has historically been based on its abundant marine resources, and fisheries continue to play a central role in the country’s economy. Iceland is one of the world’s leading exporters of fish products, particularly cod, herring, and salmon.
Tourism: In recent decades, tourism has become one of Iceland’s most important industries. The country attracts millions of visitors annually, drawn by its stunning natural beauty, including glaciers, volcanoes, hot springs, and unique geological formations.
Renewable Energy: Iceland is a global leader in the use of renewable energy, particularly geothermal and hydropower. The country produces most of its electricity from these sources, making it one of the cleanest energy producers in the world.
Services and Tech: Iceland’s service sector has been growing, with the development of industries such as information technology and financial services. Reykjavík has become a hub for innovation, particularly in technology and digital media.

Challenges

Despite its strong economy, Iceland faces challenges such as its small population base and dependence on external markets for trade. The economy is vulnerable to global economic fluctuations, and the country’s reliance on tourism makes it susceptible to external shocks, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tourist Attractions

Iceland’s tourism industry has flourished due to its dramatic landscapes and natural wonders. Some of the country’s most famous attractions include:

Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route that encompasses several of Iceland’s top attractions:

Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the location of Iceland’s first parliament and sits at the meeting point of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Geysir, home to the famous Strokkur Geyser, which erupts every few minutes.
Gullfoss, a massive two-tier waterfall known for its power and beauty.

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most famous geothermal spas, located in a lava field in southwestern Iceland. The warm, mineral-rich waters are believed to have healing properties, and the spa is a popular destination for relaxation and wellness.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón, located in southeast Iceland, is a large glacial lake filled with icebergs. The lagoon is connected to the Atlantic Ocean, and visitors can take boat tours among the floating icebergs. Nearby, the Diamond Beach is famous for its black sand and ice chunks washed ashore from the lagoon.

Northern Lights

Iceland is one of the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis), especially during the winter months. The lights can be seen in areas with minimal light pollution, such as Thingvellir National Park and Lake Myvatn.

Vatnajökull National Park

Home to Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe by volume, Vatnajökull National Park offers stunning landscapes, including glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanoes. The park is a haven for outdoor activities like ice caving, glacier hiking, and wildlife watching.

Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss Waterfalls

Iceland is known for its waterfalls, and two of the most famous are Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss. Skógafoss, located in the south of the country, is one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland, while Seljalandsfoss is unique because visitors can walk behind it, offering a dramatic view from within the falls.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens do not require a visa for stays in Iceland of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, as Iceland is a member of the Schengen Area. However, travelers must ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their planned departure date from the Schengen Area. For longer stays or other purposes, such as work or study, U.S. citizens must apply for an appropriate visa.

Distance to New York City and Los Angeles

New York City to Reykjavík: The distance from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is approximately 3,100 miles (5,000 kilometers), with a flight time of around 6-7 hours.
Los Angeles to Reykjavík: The distance from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is about 4,500 miles (7,242 kilometers), with a flight duration of approximately 9-10 hours.

Iceland Facts

Size	103,000 km²
Residents	356,000
Language	Icelandic
Capital	Reykjavik
Longest river	Thjorsa (Icelandic: Þjórsá, 230 km)
Highest mountain	Hvannadalshnúkur (2,110 m)
Currency	Icelandic krona