Understanding cultural etiquette in Iceland can turn a good trip into a truly memorable one. Icelanders are friendly, informal and deeply connected to nature and community – and a little local know‑how will help you feel at home from the moment you arrive.
One of the first things visitors notice is how relaxed and informal Icelandic culture is. People usually address each other by first name, even in professional settings, and titles are rarely used. Don’t be surprised if your tour guide, barista and hotel host all introduce themselves on a first‑name basis. At Ourhotels.is properties like Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn and Ísafjörður Inn, you’ll quickly feel this easygoing atmosphere: staff are approachable, happy to chat and always ready to share local tips.
Personal space and privacy are highly valued in Iceland. Icelanders are polite but not overly expressive with strangers, and small talk tends to be brief and to the point. It’s perfectly normal for conversations to start slowly and then warm up once people feel comfortable. A friendly “Góðan daginn” (good day) or “Takk” (thank you) goes a long way, and locals appreciate visitors who make a small effort with the language, even if most people speak excellent English.
Respect for nature is central to Icelandic life and etiquette. Locals take great pride in their landscapes and are very conscious of environmental impact. Staying on marked paths, not disturbing moss or birdlife, and following local safety advice are all seen as basic courtesy. When you stay at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, close to Borgarnes, you’re surrounded by rivers, lava fields and farmland – an ideal place to experience how closely daily life is tied to the land. Ask the staff about nearby walking routes or viewpoints, and they’ll gladly point you to places where you can enjoy the scenery responsibly.
Punctuality is another important part of Icelandic etiquette. Meetings, tours and restaurant bookings are expected to start on time, especially in smaller towns where schedules are tight and daylight can be precious in winter. If you’re joining a tour from Stykkishólmur Inn, for example, arriving a few minutes early is considered polite and helps everything run smoothly. The same applies to check‑in and check‑out times at Ourhotels.is locations – if you need flexibility, just ask in advance and the team will do their best to help.
When it comes to dress, Icelanders are practical. The weather can change quickly, so layers and good outdoor gear are more important than formality. Even in Reykjavík, you’ll see people dressed casually in most restaurants and cafés. In coastal towns like Stykkishólmur and Ísafjörður, it’s completely normal to go from a cozy café to a windy harbor walk in the same outfit. At Stykkishólmur Inn and Ísafjörður Inn, you’ll fit right in with comfortable, weather‑appropriate clothing – think warm sweaters, waterproof jackets and sturdy shoes rather than formal wear.
Icelandic social life often revolves around swimming pools, hot tubs and saunas, which come with their own etiquette. The most important rule is to shower thoroughly without a swimsuit before entering the pool or hot tub – this is taken seriously and is considered a matter of respect for everyone using the facilities. If you’re unsure about the routine, just watch what locals do or ask a staff member. Many guests at Ourhotels.is use local pools in Borgarnes, Stykkishólmur or Ísafjörður as part of their daily rhythm, and it’s a great way to experience authentic Icelandic life.
Dining etiquette in Iceland is relaxed but considerate. It’s polite to book ahead for dinner, especially in smaller towns where seating can be limited. Tipping is not obligatory, as service is usually included in prices, but rounding up or leaving a small tip for excellent service is appreciated. If you have dietary requirements, most places are accommodating – just mention it when you book or order. Staff at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn and Ísafjörður Inn can recommend nearby restaurants that suit your preferences and help with reservations.
Icelanders also value equality and straightforwardness. Conversations tend to be honest and direct, without much formality or exaggeration. You’ll notice this when asking for advice at reception or chatting with locals in a café: people will give you their genuine opinion, whether it’s about the weather, road conditions or the best hiking trail. This directness is a sign of respect, not rudeness, and visitors who respond in the same clear, polite way are appreciated.
In smaller communities, such as those around Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður or in the harbor towns of Stykkishólmur and Ísafjörður, community spirit is strong. Greeting people you meet on a quiet street, holding doors open and being mindful of noise late at night are simple ways to show respect. When you stay at Ourhotels.is properties, you’re not just booking a room – you’re stepping into the rhythm of local life. The teams at each inn are part of their communities and can help you understand local customs, events and traditions during your stay.
By embracing Icelandic cultural etiquette – from respecting nature and timekeeping to enjoying the hot pools and local food culture – you’ll find it easier to connect with the people and places you visit. Whether you’re watching the river flow near Hvítá Inn, exploring the colorful streets around Stykkishólmur Inn or soaking up the fjord views from Ísafjörður Inn, Ourhotels.is offers a comfortable, locally rooted base for discovering Iceland in a thoughtful and respectful way.
