Well, let me start by saying that my 7-day trip to Iceland was one of the most incredible adventures I’ve ever experienced. From the stunning landscapes to the unique culture, Iceland truly has something for everyone. But let’s get down to the details and talk about the cost.
First and foremost, it’s important to note that the cost of a trip to Iceland can vary depending on several factors such as the time of year you visit, the level of luxury you desire, and your personal spending habits. But on average, you can expect to spend anywhere between $90 to $290 USD per person per day.
Now, this might sound like quite a range, so let me break it down for you. If you’re a budget traveler, you can definitely get by on the lower end of the spectrum. This would include staying in hostels or guesthouses, eating at more affordable restaurants, and participating in free or low-cost activities such as hiking or exploring national parks.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, you can expect to spend closer to the higher end of the range. This would involve staying in upscale hotels or boutique accommodations, dining at fine restaurants, and participating in guided tours or excursions.
But regardless of your budget, there are a few expenses that you should keep in mind. Firstly, accommodation in Iceland can be quite pricey, especially during peak travel seasons. So be prepared to allocate a significant portion of your budget towards lodging.
Secondly, food and drink can also add up quickly, especially if you choose to dine out for every meal. However, there are ways to save money in this department as well. For example, you can opt for self-catering options or grab quick bites from local bakeries or food trucks.
Lastly, transportation can also be a significant expense, especially if you plan on renting a car to explore the country. Gas prices in Iceland are quite high, so factor that into your budget as well. Alternatively, you can also consider using public transportation or joining organized tours to get around.
To give you a more concrete example of the costs, let me share a bit about my own experience. I traveled to Iceland during the summer months and opted for a mid-range budget. I stayed in a combination of guesthouses and budget hotels, which cost me around $100-150 USD per night.
For meals, I usually had breakfast at my accommodations or picked up some groceries from local supermarkets. Lunches were often quick and affordable, such as grabbing a sandwich or a slice of pizza. Dinners were a bit more indulgent, as I wanted to try some traditional Icelandic cuisine, so I budgeted around $30-50 USD per meal.
As for activities, I did a combination of free and paid experiences. I explored the famous Golden Circle route on my own, which didn’t cost me anything except for gas. I also splurged on a guided glacier hike, which set me back around $150 USD. I would say I spent around $150-200 USD per day, excluding accommodation.
So, to sum it all up, the cost of a 7-day trip to Iceland can range from $630 to $2030 USD per person, excluding airfare. But remember, these are just rough estimates and your actual expenses will depend on your personal preferences and travel style. Regardless of your budget, I can guarantee that Iceland is worth every penny.