Tipping and paying in Reykholt: card terminals, rounding up, and when cash is useful

Paying in Reykholt: Cards, Cash & Tipping

Visiting Reykholt in West Iceland is a breeze when you know how to pay like a local. From card terminals in cozy cafés to the rare moments when a few krónur in cash come in handy, we’ve got you covered. Stay with Ourhotels.is for a seamless experience—and unwinding at Hvítá Inn is the perfect end to any day.

Card Terminals and Contactless Payments

Most shops, restaurants and attractions in Reykholt accept credit and debit cards. You’ll find:

• Contactless payments for quick coffee stops
• Chip-and-PIN terminals in museums and boutiques
• Mobile wallet options (Apple Pay, Google Pay) at larger venues

Simply tap or insert your card—no need to worry about exchanging large sums of cash.

Rounding Up and Tipping Etiquette

Tipping in Iceland is not mandatory, but rounding up is a friendly way to show appreciation. In cafés or for guided tours, you can:

• Round your bill up to the nearest 100 ISK
• Add 5–10% for exceptional service
• Leave small change in the tip jar if there’s one

Staff appreciate the gesture, and it ensures you leave on a positive note.

When Cash Comes in Handy

Although cards reign supreme, having some Icelandic krónur can be useful for:

• Rounding up in remote farm cafés
• Buying local crafts at small roadside stalls
• Paying entry fees at lesser-known heritage sites

A pocketful of 500 and 1,000 ISK notes will cover these little extras.

Practical Travel Tips for Reykholt

What to Do

• Soak in the medieval hot spring pool at Snorralaug
• Explore lava fields on a guided hike
• Visit the historic Snorri Sturluson site

When to Go

• Summer (June–August) for midnight sun and lush landscapes
• Shoulder seasons (May, September) for fewer crowds
• Winter (December–February) to chase the Northern Lights

What to Pack

• Sturdy hiking boots and waterproof layers
• Swimwear and a quick-dry towel
• Portable charger and camera
• A small amount of ISK for cash-only spots

How Long to Stay

We recommend 2–3 nights in Reykholt to truly soak in its history and geothermal charm. Extend your journey in Westfjords with a stay at Ísafjörður Inn, or choose Truck Inn at Hvítá for easy access to Borgarnes and beyond.

Ready to plan your perfect getaway? Book your room via Ourhotels.is and enjoy comfortable stays, local insights and effortless payments throughout your trip.