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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

15 Best Books About Iceland To Read Before You Visit

April 26, 2022 //  by  Iceland Trippers

Are you preparing for your Icelandic trip and wondering what books about Iceland you can read? We have you covered. In this article, we will walk you through travel books on Iceland, Icelandic novels, and the best books about Iceland.

Iceland publishes more books per capita than anywhere else in the world. Iceland has a long tradition of reading and is a very literary country. Books are traditionally given as presents and 1 in 10 Icelanders will publish a book. 

It’s not surprising really this majestic and magical country lends itself very well to tales, sagas, and mysteries. Any book with a majestic waterfall , lava landscape, black beaches , and dormant volcanoes is a hit in our eyes. 

In this list, we have included Iceland travel books some of the best Icelandic crime novels, and books set in Iceland. We particularly recommend reading the Hidden Iceland series. Surprisingly for a country with a low crime rate crime writers are extremely popular and loved worldwide. 

These no-fiction books will help you in planning your trip and the fiction books will give you a real feel of what this country is like. 

We hope you enjoy delving into this Icelandic literature and that you find a book that you enjoy.  

Are you ready to see which Icelandic literature we have chosen for you? Grab a hot drink, your coziest blanket, and let us walk you through the best Icelandic sagas, books to read before Iceland, and the best Icelandic crime novels.

The 10 Days In Iceland Guide

It seems only right that the first book we recommend is an incredible guide we have put together. If planning your Iceland vacation really does seem like too much then leave it to us.

Here all the research has been done for you. You have access to 3 customized 10-day Iceland itineraries with day-to-day instructions, Google Maps locations, and absolutely everything you will need to have a hassle-free vacation.

It’s like having your own personal tour guide along for the ride with you. Everything in this e-book is fully customizable and it helps you track your accommodation, finances, itinerary, and more.

This is more than a book here we hold your hand as you plan your dream Iceland getaway and you can ask us any question on our Facebook page as you are planning.

Click Here To Buy The 10 Days In Iceland Guide

Lonely Planet Iceland (Travel Guide)

This is one of the best Iceland books to buy in terms of planning your trip. The Lonely Planet Icleand is full of tips, inspiration, and information. These guides are always relevant and up to date and make a great companion for your I celandic travels .

This book walks you through the Blue Lagoon , the Northern Lights , and visiting a glacier plus much more. The book also contains colored maps, itinerary suggestions, ways to save money, essential information, and honest reviews.

This is one of the best travel books on Iceland and covers all the top sights as well as some that are off the beaten track. A great way for you to start planning your Icelandic adventure.

Click Here To Buy The Lonely Planet Iceland

The Hidden Iceland Trilogy: A Crime Story Told In reverse

Ragnar Jonasson has become one of the best Icelandic crime fiction writers. The Hidden Iceland trilogy follows Detective Inspector Hulda Hermannsdottir who is called in to solve the health of a young woman.

It’s a dark atmospheric thriller that is both bleak and captivating. The sparse Icelandic landscape makes a great backdrop. The book takes you on a journey from Reykjavik to the highlands to the fjords .

The island and The Mist are the next two books in the series. It’s described as Agatha Christie meets Nordic Noir which sounds fascinating. Jonasson is one of the best Icelandic writers and his are some of the best Icelandic crime novels.

Click Here To Buy The Hidden Iceland Trilogy

The Little Book of Tourists In Iceland

We are big believers in respecting the places you travel to and the people who live there. The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland by Alda Sigmundsdottir discusses the huge Icelandic tourist boom and how it has affected the people and the place.

This is a book that really teaches you what not to do when in Iceland. It gives you tips for visiting responsibility and staying safe while you are there.

Not only does it cover the impact tourism is having on Iceland’s structure, resources, and environment but it also busts some myths, particularly around elves.

Also shared are some stories of the crazy things tourists have done, the behavior that most annoys the locals, and what the Icelandic people really think about tourism. It’s a fun, short, and easy read.

Click Here To But The Littel Book Of Tourists In Icleand

The Sagas of the Icelanders

Want to learn about the best Icelandic sagas then The Sagas of the Icelanders is for you. Written in the 13th century they document the settlement of Vikings and the early struggles.

The sagas are one of the world’s great literary treasures and are very important to the Icelandic people. They are fundamentally the real human stories and celebrate the lives and deeds of the Norse men and women.

They are not the easiest reading material but they are one of the best books about Iceland for history lovers.

Click Here To Buy The Sagas of the Icelanders

Rick Steves Iceland

When it comes to Iceland travel books Rick Steves Iceland has to be one of the best. Here you will find itineraries, road trips, and lots of hidden gems.

Covering the best stops on the Ring Road, the Golden Circle. Hot Springs and more this is a candid and useful guide to Iceland.

One of the books on Iceland.

Click Here to Buy Rick Steves Iceland

Names for the Sea: Strangers In Iceland

Sarah Moss had a childhood dream of moving to Iceland. Names For The Sea: Strangers In Iceland is her compelling, beautiful, and very funny account of living in the country.

Moving her two children on a whim from their comfortable life in Kent, England she was there during Iceland’s economic collapse, the Eyjafjallajokull eruption and recounts how the two events impacted her.

In this book, we meet some characters that guided Sarah through Icelandic life. We also experience the Northern Lights, Snaefellsness, and a bunch of other locations with her.

Of all the Iceland books this one is fascinating, funny, and enlightening.

Click Here To Buy Names for the Sea: Strangers in Iceland

The Fish Can Sing

Halldór Laxness is an Icelandic writer that many love. He won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1955 and his book Independent People is considered one of the best Icelandic novels.

The Fish Can Sing is a story about orphan Alfgrimur who spent his childhood in a traditional turf cottage with an elder fisherman. Alfgrimur dreams of becoming a fisherman too until he meets Iceland’s biggest celebrity and things change.

This coming-of-age novel seems to be very symbolic of how challenging it can be to mix the traditional with the new.

Click Here to By Fish Can Sing

Moonstone: The Boy Who Never Was

Winner of the Icelandic Literary Prize Moonstone: The Boy Who Never Was is a compelling novel set against the backdrop of 1918 Iceland.

Katla is erupting, there is a shortage of coal and the Great War grinds on. The story centers around sixteen-year-old Máni Steinn who is a bit of a dreamer and outcast. Everything changes in his life when the Spanish Flu epidemic hits.

This mesmerizing and original novel weaves a story of this misfit living among uncertainty, transformation, and death. It’s one of the most unique Icelandic novels and well worth a read.

Click Here To Buy Moonstone: The Boy Who Never Was

Wild Horses of the Summer Sun: A Memoir of Iceland

Every June Tory Bilski meets up with fellow women travelers and they escape their ordinary lives. Together they live on a horse farm in the middle of nowhere in northern Iceland.

Wild Horses of the Summer Sun: A Memoir of Iceland charts the true story of these women’s journeys and the deep friendship bonds they create over the years. It’s very similar to Eat, Pray, Love or Under The Tuscan Sun.

This is a story of what happens when you begin to follow your dreams. Filled with adventure, humor, and candor which you can’t help but fall in love with. This is one of the Iceland books that will enchant and enthrall you.

Click Here To Buy Wild Horses of the Summer Sun: A Memoir of Iceland

The Little Book of the Hidden People: Twenty stories of elves from Icelandic folklore

Of all the books on Iceland, this is perhaps one of the most quirky. The Little Book of the Hidden People covers the folklore of elves and hidden people giving us an insight into the Iceland of the past and those who lived there.

We learn how the Icelanders’ elf belief was born out of a nation living in abject poverty who longed to believe there was a parallel world. These stories have become an integral part of the cultural and psychological fabric of their nation.

In this book, you will learn all about the Icelanders and the media fascination with elves.

Click Here To Buy The Little Book of the Hidden People: Twenty stories of elves from Icelandic folklore

The Rough Guide to Iceland

The Rough Guide To Iceland is one of the great books to read before Iceland. It’s a comprehensive and entertaining travel guide with all the information you could ever need.

In this book, you get honest recommendations from independent experts. From restaurants to bars to hikes and all the sights they have you covered.

There is also detailed regional coverage with practical information for wherever you are traveling.

Click Here To Buy The Rough Guide To Iceland

I Remember You

How about a ghost story set in the Westfjords? Yes, Yrsa Sigurdardottir delivers with I Remember You .

It’s atmospheric, creepy, and has everything a great ghost story has. There is a remote village, a rundown house, and a feeling they are not alone.

Yrsa Sigurdardotti has taken the international crime fiction world by storm with many comparing this to that the work of Stephen King. Oh as if it couldn’t get worse it’s based on a true story.

Click Here to Buy I Remember You

Burial Rights

This is one of the books set in Iceland that has received high praise. Hannah Kent brings to life the story of Agnes, who is charged with the brutal murder of her former master.

In Burial Rights Agnes is sent to an isolated farm to await execution this book is her story and touches on some deep topics. It’s a book about the truths we claim to know and the ways in which we interpret what we’re told.

Based on actual events this novel is moving, astonishing, and beautiful.

Click Here To Buy Burial Rights.

How Iceland Changed the World: The Big History of a Small Island 

If you want to learn about Icelandic history but want it to be entertaining and readable then this is the book for you. How Iceland Changed the World: The Big History of a Small Island tells the story of how this tiny nation shaped the world.

The book starts 1,200 years ago when a frustrated Viking captain and his useless navigator ran aground in the middle of the North Atlantic. The tour of this island’s history then continues from there.

Did you know for example that Iceland played a pivotal role in the French Revolution, the Moon Landing, and the foundation of Israel? It shocked us too.

It is a lively interesting read that we guarantee will teach you things about Iceland you didn’t know. One of the best Iceland books to get a feel for how important this island is.

Click Here To Buy How Iceland Changed the World: The Big History of a Small Island 

As you can see when it comes to books about Iceland are as diverse and far-reaching as the country itself. Icelandic literature really is a treat and well worth the read.

Whether you read books set in Iceland, Icelandic novels, or travel books on Iceland we encourage you to give at least one of these books a try. We hope they help in your planning and that you have a great Icelandic vacation.

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Lonely Planet's Experience Iceland travel guide reveals exciting new ways to explore this iconic country with insider tips from our local experts and handy planning tools so you can create your own unique trip.

Discover amazing local experiences from celebrating the summer solstice on Grimsey island, to slipping into natural hot springs along the Westfjords Way, and catching your own fish off the North Iceland village of Hauganes.

Build a one-of-a-kind trip with Lonely Planet's Experience Iceland travel guide:

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• Handy seasonal planning calendar guides you on where to go , when to travel , and what to pack
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15 Incredible Books About Iceland (To Read Before Visiting!)

Looking for the best books about Iceland to read before your trip?

Iceland is a remote, desolate land known for its volcanic landscapes, ice-capped glaciers, and sweat-inducingly high prices (how much for a burger!?).

In short, Iceland’s landscapes and culture are downright inspiring, but its literary contributions often aren’t as famous internationally as they deserve to be.

Icelandic authors have gone on to win noble prizes in literature and international acclaim. Not bad for a country with only 336,000 residents!

If you’ve ever wanted to learn about Iceland, or hear tales and folklore of its people, then you’ll love these books about Iceland, from insightful non-fiction to gripping fictional tales.

Here are the best Icelandic books to add to your reading list!

Table of Contents

How To Read While Traveling

The best non-fiction books about iceland, excellent books + novels set in iceland.

This Iceland book guide was written for Our Escape Clause by fellow bibliophile Louisa Smith of Epic Book Society . Thanks for joining us, Louisa!

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

As wonderful as it is to have beautiful books lined up on shelves, let’s face it–carrying around heavy, bulky books about Iceland while traveling is way too much of a hassle.

Instead, we recommend reading via the Kindle App (because we all read on our phones these days anyway–might as well read books instead of social media!).

Prefer to listen to audiobooks instead?

For audiobooks, Audible is a fantastic option!

If you’ve never used Audible before, download a free trial before your trip to Iceland!

If you’re planning to visit Iceland any time soon, you might want to check out some non-fiction books about Iceland so you can brush up on the history and what to expect from the culture

The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland by Alda Sigmundsdottir

Iceland has been a popular tourist destination for decades, and while tourism brings prosperity to the economy, it also brings a whole load of challenges. 

The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland highlights some of the difficulties the country faces because of the amount of tourism, from the social and environmental impacts to the harmony between travelers and locals. 

The book contains a series of short essays, which aims to offer insights into the problems Iceland faces and share tips on how visitors can travel there safely, responsibly, and in a way that is respectful to the locals. 

If you’re thinking of visiting Iceland soon, this is Iceland travel book is a must-read!

The History of Iceland by Gunnar Karlsson

Iceland’s long and impactful history covers over 1,100 years.

In The History of Iceland , Gunnar Karlsson tells how it is from the earliest recorded settlements in the 9th century to modern-day society. 

This literary history lesson has been delivered clearly and concisely, providing a vivid account of key events throughout history and of how society has adapted and gone about its way of life.

It even tells about iconic natural disasters that shook the nation (sometimes, literally). 

Written by a professor of History at the University of Iceland, The History of Iceland is incredibly informative while still being written a captivating voice reminiscent of historical fiction

This fascinating book about Iceland is definitely one to add to your reading list. 

Names for the Sea: Strangers in Iceland by Sarah Moss

Since the age of 19, Sarah Moss always dreamed about moving to Iceland.

In 2009, she finally saw her chance after spotting an advert for a job at the University of Iceland.

When she got the job, she and her kids left their quaint English town for the wild and unknown land of Iceland, an adventure that eventually became the subject of her memoir, Names for the Sea: Strangers in Iceland .

Soon after her move, Iceland went into an economic crisis which caused her salary to be sliced in half.

After that, the Eyjafjallajökull volcano erupted. 

But despite all these challenges, she managed to find a good life here.

She made new friends, including a poet who lived during WWII and witnessed the only bombs fall on Iceland, and a woman who speaks to elves. 

In this enlightening memoir, Moss creates a literary painting of the strange Icelandic landscape, from its bubbling hot spring pools to the unsurfaced roads, to the northern lights that often dance in the skies at night. 

This is Moss’s biographical book of travel and self-discovery , telling of how she and her family settled into a new life in Iceland and adapted to a new way of life.

Viking Age Iceland by Jesse Byock

Another great history book about Iceland is Viking Age Iceland by Jesse Byock.

In this fascinating non-fiction work, he describes medieval Iceland and all of its uniqueness. 

Centuries ago, Iceland had no foreign policy, no defense forces, no rulers, no royal families, and no peasants either. It rarely had any battles.

And yet, it still has an abundance of stories to tell. Its history comes from its people.

In Viking Age Iceland , Jesse Byock unlocks the secrets to the Viking social structures and cultural codes in a captivating voice.

Through this fascinating non-fiction book, you’ll learn about the anthropology and ethnography of Iceland’s society in a vivid and graphic way.

It’s another non-fiction Icelandic book that reads like fiction!

The Promise of Iceland by Kari Gislason

The Promise of Iceland is a heartwarming memoir of Kari Gislason, who travels to Iceland in 1990 to meet his father for the first time.

Kári Gíslason was raised by his British mother, who had sworn not to reveal his father’s identity after the two meet in secret when she was working for the army there. 

When Gislason was growing up, he was aware of his father’s identity but knew of a pact between him and his mom to keep his identity a secret, so never pursued him.

When he was 27, he decided it was time to break the pact.

Upon arriving in the Icelandic city of Reykjavík, he traces the steps of his mother who found herself in Iceland in 1970, after taking a job as an English-speaking secretary in the Army of Foreign Secretaries. 

Set out to find his biological father, he found a new meaning of home.

On this epic journey, he realizes that it wasn’t his father he was longing for all these years, but Iceland, the place where he was born but never knew.

This book is a little similar to The Alchemist , in that it follows one man’s journey toward acceptance and knowledge. 

Rick Steves Iceland by Ian Watson and Rick Steves

Rick Steves Iceland is like a nature documentary in written form, and an excellent guidebook for planning your trip to Iceland.

It’s a definitive guidebook to the mystical land of glaciers, volcanoes, dancing northern lights, volcanic lakes, and hot spring pools.

No matter if you have a weekend to spend in Iceland or a complete two-week itinerary, this book will reveal all the number one sites you should see and offers strategic advice on how to see them.

Steves also gives helpful tips and advice on how to save money, get the most out of your time, beat the crowds, avoid tourist traps, find suitable accommodation, and book reputable tours.

Complete with maps, packing lists, and other useful resources, you won’t need any other guidebook while visiting Iceland.

How Iceland Changed the World: The Big History of a Small Island by Egill Bjarnason

I mentioned earlier how Iceland has a vast history, despite never participating in a full-scale war .

In How Iceland Changed the World , Egill Bjarnason details how this tiny island has had a big impact on the world despite never getting into conflicts.

When a Viking ship ran aground in the middle of the North Atlantic, suddenly Iceland was born.

Over 1,200 years, the island has produced notable diplomats, musicians, sailors, and soldiers, as well as a dynamic landscape, that has quietly altered the globe. 

In this little non-fiction book, readers will learn how Iceland played a role in the French Revolution, the foundation of Israel, and even the Moon Landing.

This humble nation has played a pivotal role in world events, yet has barely earned any credit… until now.

Iceland is home to some of the world’s best novelists, from Nobel prize winners to international bestsellers.

If you’re looking for a riveting tale to get lost in, these are some of the best fiction books set in Iceland!

Woman at 1000 Degrees by Hallgrímur Helgason

Woman at 1000 Degrees is a heartwarming and humbling novel by Icelandic author Hallgrimur Helgason.

This Iceland novel is narrated by an 80-year-old woman who is almost at the end of her life.

She has two or three weeks left to live and has even booked her cremation appointment, where her body will be heated to 1,000 degrees. 

Over the course of her final weeks, she talks about her fondest memories, her childhood growing up as the daughter of Iceland’s first president, to her teenage years living alone in war-torn Europe.

She talks of her love affairs and her travels around several continents. She talks of her husband, kids, and her experience living through financial instability. 

This is the good, bad, and ugly of a woman who was unwavering in the face of adversity, who adapted and faced challenges throughout her whole life. 

Woman at 1000 Degrees is not only an award-winning, bestselling novel set in Iceland but an original story that’s never been done before.

Each page is as unpredictable and as remarkable as the next!

Butterflies in November by Auður Ava Ólafsdóttir

Butterflies in November is a funny travel book from Iceland about a thirty-something woman who wants to leave the chaos of her normal life and travel. 

After her husband leaves her for another woman, her best friend comes to console her.

Only she falls and is badly injured, leaving her to care for her best friend’s mute son. 

One day, she wins 40 million kroner on a shared lottery ticket, and with that, she heads off on a road trip with the boy across the vast lands of Iceland. 

Along the way, some animals may die, her ex-lovers make an unexpected appearance, and the narrator learns the extraordinary lesson of what it takes to be a mother.

This hilarious tale covers themes of family, building relationships, and learning the consequences of life’s mistakes.

The Fish Can Sing by Halldór Laxness

One of the most beloved novels set in Iceland is the classic book The Fish Can Sing .

It was written by Nobel Prize-winning author, Halldór Laxness, and is an endearing coming-of-age tale with hints of light irony and dark humor.

It follows the story of an orphan, Alfgrimur, who has spent his childhood raised by an eccentric elderly couple in a small turf cottage. 

Alfgrimur hopes to become a fisherman one day, like his adoptive grandfather.

That all changes one day he meets the iconic opera singer, Gardar Holm. 

Gardar Holm has bought International fame and pride to Iceland, and yet no one in Iceland has ever heard him sing.

When he meets Alfgrimur, Holm is interested in the young man’s musical potential and encourages him to look to the world outside Iceland to find fame and fortune. 

As Alfgrimur follows his dreams, he is faced with the challenge of finding his own path while staying true to his heritage.

The Sagas of the Icelanders by Various Authors

To Icelanders, the Viking era is also known as ‘The Saga’ era.

It was the first time that the Norse men and women settled on this land and built the foundations of Iceland’s civilization. 

In The Sagas of the Icelanders , a group of Icelandic authors has come together to share tales of the lives and deeds of their descendants, who traveled from as far as Greenland and North America to live here. 

They are stories of folklore and mythology, some based on true events and others on myths. 

The Sagas is considered one of the world’s great literary treasures and covers social issues like love, hate, fate, and freedom.

If you’re looking to understand the history of Iceland’s culture, this Icelandic book is a great place to start!

The Draining Lake by Arnaldur Indriðason

After an earthquake causes the water level of an Icelandic lake to drop, the skeleton of a man half-buried in the sand is revealed.

It had a hole in the skull and had obviously been there for many years.

Only, it had a heavy radio transmitter with Russian inscriptions attached to it.

So begins the captivating story of The Draining Lake , a popular mystery novel set in Iceland.

Erlendur, Elínborg, and Sigurður Óli are the police officers in charge of the investigation, which takes them as far back as the Cold War when intelligent students would be sent to Communist East Germany to study.

Their investigation opens up a world of mystery, horror, and shattered dreams.

The Draining Lake is a fictional Iceland book but has very real emotions portrayed throughout the book.

It tells of the loss of the missing students who were sent for “greener pastures” and the grief of the parents left behind.

I Remember You by Yrsa Sigurdardóttir

I Remember You is a paranormal, thriller, and mystery novel that reveals the terrifying tale of three friends who are tasked with renovating a rundown house in a remote location.

Only, they soon realize they are not as alone as they thought.

Something is not happy about their presence being there. 

Meanwhile, a doctor is investigating the suicide of an elderly woman.

As he learns more about the woman, he learns that she was obsessed with his missing son. 

If you’re a fan of Stephen King and horror novels, then this frightening novel will be the perfect addition to your reading list.

Based on somewhat true events, this page-turning Icelandic book will keep you up at night.

Burial Rites by Hannah Kent

In Hannah Kent’s debut novel, Burial Rites , readers are taken on a literary journey of mystery and despair.

Based on a true story and set in 1829, it follows a young woman, Agnes, who was charged with the brutal murder of her master.

In those days, the penalty for murder is death.

In those final days before she faces her punishment, Agnes is sent to an isolated farm to await her fate.

Her family has disowned her, and only Tóti, a priest chosen to be her spiritual guardian, tries to understand her. 

Meanwhile, as the hour draws near, the farmer’s wife and daughters uncover another side to the story that may help Agnes escape her fate.

Burial Rites is a riveting read and is expertly written, portraying an emotional account of one woman’s struggles to endure when no one listens to her side of the story.

101 Reykjavík by Hallgrímur Helgason

If you’re looking for a pop-culture, young adult novel with hints of humor and coming-of-age elements, 101 Reykjavík is the one. 

It tells the story of Hlynur Björn, a 30-something loner with no job and still living at home with his mom.

One day, his mother comes out as a lesbian and moves her Spanish girlfriend into their home. 

In this memoir-style Icelandic novel, 101 Reykjavík reveals a funny and bizarre love triangle story with hints of perverse sexuality and “slacker culture”.

It pokes fun at Icelandic culture and foibles but in a lighthearted kind of way.

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Your friendly site for all fun things books, 44 books set in iceland to read before you visit (or while you’re there).

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Looking for the best books set in Iceland?

Three years ago if you would have asked me if I wanted to go to Iceland, I probably would be said sure, eventually. But now, I’m dying to go! It’s crept its way up my bucket list (still not the top, but up there) and now seeing all these books set in Iceland I want to go even more.

All of these Iceland books will have you dreaming of horses, glaciers, waterfalls, ice caves, and maybe murder since there is some Nordic Noir in here, too.

But don’t worry, you’ll also find some Iceland travel books, Iceland memoirs, Icelandic folk tales, fiction, and non-fiction in Iceland. Basically, no matter what you like, you can find something here.

• If you want to listen to some of these, consider  trying Audible ! You can get your first month free (one free book) plus tons of others they have for free.  Get that Audible deal here.
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• If you want to read more on your Kindle but don’t want to buy books, Kindle Unlimited is a good option. If you read a lot and like to read more than just new releases (especially romance), it could be worth it. Get Kindle Unlimited here !
• Get $5 off of $25 from BookOutlet! This is a great place to find new books for pretty cheap. They also have sales quite a bit, so keep an eye out for those. I tend to check here for books I want if they’re more expensive other places. They don’t have everything but they do have a lot. Shop BookOutlet here!
• Thrift Books has become my go-to when I’m looking for a book and want it cheap. It’s great if you like buying used books. With this you can get a free book after spending $30!
• Shop my book lists here! You can find every book list I have on Bookshop.org (except my monthly round-ups) and I add everything I can but they occasionally won’t have some. I do occasionally add extras though. If any lists are empty, they’ll be filled in shortly! Shop my bookshop.org book lists here .

Books set in Iceland short list

Don’t have time to read the full list? Just want to know my top picks for best Iceland books? Look no further! These are my favorite books set in Iceland (and they all happen to be Nordic Noir, I’m only a little sorry).

The Creak on the Stairs

I remember you, books set in iceland.

Now that you have my top three picks, here is the full list of books about Iceland! And don’t worry, it’s not all Nordic Noir even though that’s how it kicks off. It’s a mix of fiction, folklore, mystery, and more.

Cold as Hell

Arora and Isafold are sisters who lost contact, living in England and Iceland. When their mother doesn’t hear from Isafold, she becomes worried and Arora heads to Iceland to track her down.

She is baffled by the details of her sister’s life as she confronts her abusive, drug-dealing boyfriend and questions her friends and neighbors. With the help of police officer Daniel, she tries to track down her sister but she isn’t the only one watching.

The Girl Who Died

All Una wants to do is teach, but she can’t find steady employment in Reykjavik. Ringing in the new year in the small fishing village of Skalar is the price to pay to earn some teaching credentials.

One of Iceland’s most isolated villages, Skalar is home to just ten people and Una has only two students. Everyone seems to keep distant, even Thor, a man with who she shares an attraction but keeps her at arm’s length.

As darkness descends on the winter, she finds herself spending most of her time in the attic she rents which is reportedly haunted, drinking her life away.

She keeps having nightmares of a girl in a white dress singing a lullaby. A sudden tragedy is echoing an event in the town’s buried past leaving them even more distant and Una to uncover the shocking truth kept hidden for generations.

The Undesired

Aldis works at a remote juvenile detention center in Iceland and she hates it. There are mysterious noises at night and one day, two of the boys go astray.

Decades later Odinn is looking into alleged abuse at the detention center when he finds out the events from the 1970s may have been linked to the accident that killed his ex-wife.

Snu g in Iceland

Here is a cozy book set in Iceland for you that isn’t about death! Rachel is in a rut and her boyfriend Adam barely notices her anymore. She jumps at the chance to oversee the opening of her company’s, Snug, next store in Iceland.

Jonas is her tour guide in Reykjavik and he helps her see that there is life out there waiting to be lived. She begins to fall in love with Iceland and wonders if the life she left behind is what she wants at all.

Four friends seek shelter in an abandoned hunting lodge when they’re caught in a snowstorm in the Icelandic highlands. They may be isolated with no way to communicate with anyone, but they’re not alone.

As the night progresses, an old tragedy that changed their friendship forever surfaces, and those memories could be the key to the mystery they’re stuck in now.

The only person with a possible answer in this baffling murder case is the victim’s seven-year-old daughter who was found hiding in the room her mother was killed in. But now she isn’t talking.

Detective Huldar was recently promoted and is out of his depths so he turns to Freyja for help with her expertise in traumatized young people. She isn’t pleased since she already distrusts the police but she is determined to keep Margaret safe as they try to crack the clues and code from the killer.

Frozen Assets

It’s up to Officer Gunnhildur to find out if the body that washed up in a rural Icelandic harbor was killed on accident or if it was more sinister. As she investigates, she uncovers a web of corruption in the business and banking communities.

In the meantime, a rookie journalist latches onto her hoping for an inside scoop while an anonymous blogger stirs up trouble. And then a second murder is committed.

Storytellers

If you want some Iceland noir but also want Icelandic historical fiction, this is perfect for you. In March 1920, Gunnar finds himself with an unwanted lodger, Sigurd, who offers a story from the past.

But some stories are too dangerous to hear and alter the listener’s lives forever by ending them. Others want to change Gunnar’s story, too though and all he can hope is to write his own last chapter.

The Darkness Knows

Thirty years after he disappeared, the frozen body of a businessman is found in the icy depths of Langjokull glacier. At the time, the search had no results. A business associate was held in custody but lack of evidence didn’t allow him to be charged.

Now, he is arrested again in Konrad and the original investigator is called back to reopen the case. Progress can finally be made when a woman comes forward with information from her deceased brother.

Around Iceland on Inspiration

Riaan Manser is South Africa’s best-known adventurer and this was his most daring, and coldest, adventure yet. He was going to kayak around Iceland with Dan Skinstad, who suffers from minor cerebral palsy.

As a team, they overcome daunting obstacles while learning how to work together. This is also apparently a controversial TV series that came out in 2012. Let me know if you’ve seen that and how it was! This is a good one if you like books about kayaking long distances or human-powered journeys.

Wild Horses of the Summer Sun: A Memoir of Iceland

Every June, Tori Bilski meets up with fellow women travelers on a horse farm in Northern Iceland, near the Greenland Sea. They escape their ordinary live to live a peaceful one on the farm, at least for a little while.

When they first went to Thingeryar, they were strangers with only a love for Icelandic horses in common. Now, they grow old together while keeping each other young.

Names for the Sea: Strangers in Iceland

Sarah Moss had always wanted to move to Iceland, especially after spending a summer there at nineteen. Well, in 2009, with two young kids and a nice life in Kent, England, she applied for a job at the University of Iceland on a whim after seeing an advertisement.

The resulting adventure was shaped by the collapse of Iceland’s economy, as was her salary, the eruption of Eyjafjallajokull, and a collection of new friends as she and her family learned new ways to live on their adventures around the island.

The Far Traveler: Voyages of a Viking Woman

Gudrid, a Viking woman, set sail off the edge of the known world 500 years before Columbus and lived in the New World, where she landed, for three years where she gave birth to a baby before she sailed home. At least that’s what the Icelandic stories say.

No one believed the stories were true, even when a Viking longhouse was found in Newfoundland, but in 2001 scientists may have found Gudrid’s last house buried under a hay field in Iceland, just like the story suggested it could be. This is the tale of following her journey and sheds light on why society may have collapsed.

The Little Book of the Icelanders: 50 Miniature Essays on the Quirks and Foibles of the Icelandic People

Alda Sigmundsdottir was raised in Iceland, and after more than twenty years away, she returns as a foreigner. Once she arrives, she begins dissecting the national psyche of Icelanders with the insight of a native and the perspective of an outsider.

Some of the topics included are appalling driving habits of Icelanders, their profound fear of commitment, naming conventions and customs, the importance of family, where to meet the real Icelanders, and more. This is a great book about Iceland if you want to know what it’s like living there.

The Darkness

Just like Finland , Icelandic Nordic Noir is not something that’s hard to come by and there are plenty to choose from if you are more into thrillers.

When a young Russian woman’s body washes up on the Icelandic shore, it’s quietly decided it was a suicide and the case is closed.

Over a year later Detective Huda Hermannsdottir is forced into retirement at 64 from the Reykjavik police, but dark memories from her past are threatening to come back and haunt her.

But before she leaves, she is given two weeks and the chance to solve and cold chase of her choice and she chooses the Russian girl who’s hope for asylum was ended on the cold rocky shores.

She finds out another girl went missing at the same time and everyone seems determined to put the brakes on her investigation, but she will find the killer.

Miss Iceland

Heka always knew she wanted to be a writer in a nation where households proudly displayed the work of poets and leather-bound sagas, but there is one problem: she is a woman and it’s the 1960s.

After packing up the few belongings she had, she headed into Reykjavik with a manuscript in her bag.

She moves in with her gay friend, Jon, who longs to work in the theater but can only find dangerous backbreaking work.

Her opportunities are also limited, but the world they’re in is changing and she realizes she must escape abroad for her dreams to come true, no matter the cost.

Seawomen of Iceland: Survival on the Edge

If you want a good non-fiction/history book about Iceland, check this one out for sure! Margaret Wilson saw a plaque that said this was the winter fishing hut of Thuridur Einarsdottir, one of Iceland’s greatest fishing captains and she lived from 1777 to 1863.

Thus began the quest to find out if there were more Icelandic sea women. She was surprised by what she found: a collection of women that braved the seas for centuries.

This tells their stories that include excitement, accidents, trials, and tribulations of fishing in Iceland from rowboats to today’s high-tech fisheries.

Ari Thor is a rookie policeman on his first posting farm from his girlfriend, who is in Reykjavik, in an isolated fishing village where no one locks their doors in the fjords of Northern Iceland.

A young woman is found naked, bleeding, and unconscious in the snow and a highly esteemed writer falls to his death. Ari is dragged right into it in a community where secrets and lies are a way of life.

The Museum of Whales You Will Never See: And Other Excursions to Iceland’s Most Unusual Museums

With a population of only 330,000, Iceland has enough museums for nearly one for every ten people, which means 265 museums and public collections. They range from the Icelandic Phallological Museum to the Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft.

Kendra Greene takes us through this whimsical cabinet of curiosities and shows us how random objects can map people past, futures, fears, and obsessions.

Season of the Witch

Einar is a reporter for the Reykjavik-based paper, The Afternoon News, and is chosen to be their sole reporter in Northern Iceland when they expand up there. He thought he would just be moving to a new town, not a new decade.

Everything feels slow and old-fashioned, which is the total opposite of what he is used to. His first assignment is to cover a college theater production of an Icelandic folktale of ambition and greed, Loftur the Sorcerer.

This apparent ancient history starts to come true though when a local woman dies after falling overboard on a corporate boating retreat.

Everyone assumes it is an accident, but her mother disagrees and convinces Einar to investigate. Just days later, the lead actor from the play disappears and Einar begins to chip away at the quaint small-town facade, hungry for the truth.

The Guardians of Iceland and Other Icelandic Folk Tales

Trolls and Hidden Folk are par for the course in Iceland and this collection of Icelandic folklore and legends brings those stories to life.

This book contains twenty-five short stories for all ages that are interested in Icelandic fairytales and legends that include trolls, elves, and hidden people in stories that have been passed down for generations.

The Glass Woman

Rosa has always dreamed of living in a remote village with her Mamma, praying to the Christian God aloud during the day and whispering enchantments to the old gods alone at night, but when her father dies suddenly and her Mamma becomes ill, plans change.

She marries herself off to a visiting trader in exchange for a dowry even though rumors are going around about his first wife’s suspicious death.

Things aren’t going great when she follows Jon, her new husband, to his remote home near the sea. He expects her to stay home and be a good Christian wife and forbids her from interacting with any of the locals while barely talking to her himself.

She is also forbidden from going into his attic, but when she starts to hear noises up there, she confirms the troubling rumors about his first wife from the locals.

The Wild One

When a grieving woman asks Peter to help find her missing eight-year-old grandson, he has to get on an airplane and face his post-traumatic claustrophobia as a war veteran.

The woman’s daughter was murdered and her husband, Erik, is the only suspect but he’s run off with their young son and fled to Iceland for the protection of Erik’s lawless family.

But when Peter arrives, he is greeted, unofficially, by a man from the US embassy who makes it known that the US government apparently doesn’t want him in Iceland at all.

They allow him two days of sightseeing before he has to get on the first available flight out, but soon they realize he isn’t leaving until his mission is accomplished and they start hunting him, too.

Moonstone: The Boy Who Never Was

Mani is queer, but in Iceland in 1918, homosexuality is beyond the furthest extreme. Reykjavik is homogenous, isolated, and defenseless against the Spanish Flu which has already ravaged Europe, Asia, and North America.

And if it’s not the flu, the threat of war spreading north is always looming. One good thing the outside world has brought though is cinema and it’s hard to beat a dark, silent room with a European film flickering in front of you that will help you escape and feel like everything will be alright.

Now, at Reykjavik’s darkest hour, Mani has to decide if he should retreat into his own world or engage with the society that has so soundly rejected him.

The Blue Fox

A hunter is lead on a transformative quest led by an enigmatic fox in the harsh Icelandic winter. At the edge of his territory, a naturalist is struggling to build a life for a young woman with Down Syndrome that he rescued from a shipwreck years earlier.

By the end, all of their lives will have changed. This is a short book set in Iceland if you’re looking for a quicker read.

The only clues left behind when a lonely old man is left dead in his apartment in Reykjavik are a note left by the killer and a photo of a young girl’s grave.

During the investigation, Inspector Erlandur discovers that years ago the man was accused of a rape that went unsolved. Inspector Erlandur reopens the long-cold case and follows an odd trail of evidence that uncovers secrets much larger than the murder of one old man.

Burial Rites

Agnes has been sent to await execution on an isolated farm after she was charged with the brutal murder of her master. The family avoids Agnes at first, horrified by the thought of housing a convicted murderer and only a priest she chose to be her spiritual guardian tries to understand her.

But the farmer’s wife and daughter learn there is another side to the sensational story they’ve all been told.

The Tricking of Freya

Freya Morris grew up in a typical American suburb but spent every summer with relatives in Gimil, a tiny town in Canada settled by Icelandic immigrants.

Whenever she is here, she falls under the spell of her trouble, but charming, aunt Birdie who enchants her with stories of Norse goddesses, Viking bards, and the life of her late grandfather, the most famous poet of “New Iceland.”

But one day Birdie tricks Freya into a terrifying scandal and Freya turns her back on everything Icelandic until twenty years later when she finally returns to Gimil and stumbles on a long-concealed family secret which she becomes increasingly obsessed with unraveling and finds herself knee-deep in memories she would prefer to keep buried.

Soon the clues in Gimil dry up and she travels to Iceland before coming to an unsettling conclusion. This Icelandic novel has moved to the top of my TBR for sure!

The Greenhouse

After Lobbi’s mother dies, he decides to leave his studies behind to go live at a monastery to restore its once fabulous gardens, thanks to their shared love of tending rare roses.

As he is transforming the greenhouse, a friend of a friend, whom he shared a fateful moment in his mother’s greenhouse, surprises him with a visit and with the daughter they conceived that night. He begins to assume the complex roles of a man as he cares for the garden and the little girl.

Heaven and Hell

Badur and his friend join a cod fishing boat in a remote part of Iceland and during a surprising winter storm, Badur succumbs t the cold after forgetting his waterproof thanks to being lost in “Paradise Lost.”

The boy is appalled by his death and fisherman’s callous ability to set about getting the fatal catch so he leaves the village intent on returning the book to its owner.

He is already resolved in joining his friend in death on the perilous journey but decides he can’t join his friend yet once he gets to the town and immerses himself in the stories and lives of the inhabitants.

The Worst Thing

As long as he isn’t directly dealing with kidnappers and their victims, Bryan Bennett’s job designing hostage negotiation programs is perfect. He is prevented from traveling by nightmares of his own abduction and imprisonment as a child.

Soon, Bryan is requested specifically to teach his corporate-level kidnapping class in Reykjavik and he refuses before learning he was asked for, no one else. He has been avoiding his deepest fears for years and is taken hostage again on this trip and must finally face them.

The Whispering Muse

In 1949, Vladimir Haraldsson, an eccentric Icelander, has elevated ideas about the consumption of fish in Nordic countries.

He is lucky enough to be invited onto a Danish merchants ship back to the Black Sea where the second mate is a disguised mythical hero, Caeneus, that entrances his fellow travelers with the tale of his journey on the fabled vessel, Argo, on its quest to retrieve the Golden Fleece. This is another good, short book about Iceland.

From the Mouth of the Whale

Jonas Palmason is a poet and self-taught healer who is exiled to a barren island for his heretical conduct which happens to include using his gift to cure “female maladies”, an exorcism on a walking corpse, the deaths of three children, and a massacre of innocent Basque whalers at the hands of local villagers.

The Hitman’s Guide to Housecleaning

Tomislav Boksic, Toxic, has a flawless record as a hitman for the Croatian mafia in New York with 66 hits under his belt at least until he kills the wrong guy and is forced to flee the states.

Leaving everything behind, he finds himself on a flight to Reykjavik using the identity of a televangelist named Father Friendly. He is forced to reevaluate his life in this new place devoid of guns and contract killing.

Last Rituals

A young German student’s body is found with the eyes cut out and strange symbols carved into it at a University in Reykjavik. The police make an arrest right away, but the family isn’t convinced it’s the right man and they ask Thora Gudmundsdottir to investigate.

Before long, Thora and her associate Matthew Reich uncover the victims obsession with Iceland’s grisly history of torture, execution, and witch hunts, but there are very modern horrors among these long dark traditions.

Butterflies in November

After accidentally killing a good and being dumped twice on one day, she is ready to escape the chaos of her life, but instead, she is left to care for her best friend’s four-year-old deaf-mute son.

He chooses the winning numbers for a lottery ticket and they set off on Iceland’s Ring Road for a road trip of discovery of black sand beaches, cucumber farms, lava fields, flocks of sheep, a falconer, an Estonian choir, and more.

The result will change the ways she sees her past and charts her future in profound ways. This is a great choice if you want a lighthearted book set in Iceland.

Where the Shadows Lie

Rumors are swirling of an 800-year-old manuscript with a long lost saga about a very powerful ring. The saga rediscovery on it’s own would be worth a fortune, but if the rumors are true, there is something much more valuable about this one. Something worth killing for, that Professor Agnar Haraldsson will lose his life over.

Magnus Johnson, a Boston-raised homicide detective, is unraveling myth from murder as he returns to his homeland after a bad run-in with a drug cartel back in Boston. The other reason he returns hits closer to home, the murder of his father.

The Northern Lights Lodge

Lucy is ready to get away from her life in the UK after her heart is broken and her career is falling apart. When she accepts a job as manager of the Northern Lights Lodge, she doesn’t expect to be in the company of bubbling hot springs, snow-covered glaciers, and a gorgeous Scottish barman, Alex.

She sets out to turn the lodge into the most romantic destination in Iceland even though romance is the last thing she wants herself.

Bust as she and Alex grow closer, she may learn how to fall in love again. If you’re looking for a romance book set in Iceland, look no further (but actually keep reading the list because there are some good ones to come.)

Guogeir Fransson is a Reykjavik police officer trying to put tragedy in his professional life behind him while resolving personal turmoil. To do this, he moved far from home to Eastern Iceland and when he hears about a foreign woman who moved to the tight-knit town and disappeared just as fast, his detective sense starts tingling.

His investigation brings him back to Reykjavik before a remote farmhouse in the mountains where he finds an elderly woman, her son, and their sinister past.

I read this one and didn’t love it but it’s still worth reading if you can find it (I can’t find it anymore, I’m not sure why.)

Sonia is struggling to provide for herself and keep custody of her son after her messy divorce. Without much left to choose from, she starts smuggling cocaine into Iceland and finds herself caught up in a ruthless criminal world.

As she desperately looks for a way out, she’s pitted against her nemesis, Bragi, a customs officer with years of experience that frustrate her and her progressively daring strategies.

Things get even more complicated when she embarks on a relationship with a woman, Alga, who is a high-level bank executive being prosecuted in the aftermath of the Icelandic financial crash.

In the town of Arkranes, a woman’s body is found in a lighthouse and she is no stranger to the area. After a failed relationship, Officer Elma returns to Arkranes. She and her colleagues begin an uneasy investigation that uncovers a shocking secret in the woman’s past that continues to reverberate through the present day.

As they investigate, they uncover a host of hidden crimes that shock the community. They have to find justice as they fight through shattered memories of the townspeople while they dodge increasingly serious threats.

I read this one last year and really liked it! I’ll definitely read more of the series or more from the author.

Why Did you Lie?

A journalist investigating an old case commits suicide. A couple returns from a house swap in the US and find their home in disarray with the guests seemingly missing.

Four strangers are struggling to find shelter on a windswept rock in the raging sea. They all have one thing in common: they lied. I would like to read this one!

Three friends are renovating a rundown house in Iceland’s Westfjords and soon they realize they aren’t as alone as they thought. Something wants them to leave and it’s making its presence known.

Meanwhile, in a nearby town, a doctor is investigating the suicide of an elderly woman and he discovers that she was obsessed with his son that disappeared. The horrifying truth is uncovered as the two worlds collide. I would also really like to read this one.

Ursula is burned out and traumatized from her experiences around the world as an aid worker so she decides to return to Iceland where she accepts a high-profile government role to hopefully make a difference.

On her first day, she promises to help a mother who is seeking justice for her daughter who was raped by a policeman but life becomes much more harrowing in the high office than she imagined.

A homeless man is stalking her and the death of her father in police custody is brought back into the light while she is drawn into dirty politics and the stakes keep getting higher.

Have you read any of these books set in Iceland? Which ones? Any other Iceland books I should check out?

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Author: Megan Johnson

I'm Megan, a cheesehead at heart currently residing in the Sunshine State. You can probably find me reading, watching Forensic Files, or both. View all posts by Megan Johnson

My daughters book is about Iceland and it comes out next year Paula Stokes Hellfinder

Oh, that sounds like a really fun book! I just added it to my TBR and will have to update my list to include it!

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Nomadic Matt’s Guide to Iceland

$ 19.99

Last updated: January 2020 Made with love by travelers for travelers!

I’ve visited every region of Iceland. It’s a magical land I’ve fallen deeply in love with. My Icelandic friends have taken me to places not found in other guidebooks or websites. I’ve put everything I know about the country into this book so you can see more, spend less, and get to really experience the magic that is Iceland.

This guide is meant for travelers looking to see the local side of Iceland as you get off the tourist trail, save money, and get tips and tricks not found in mass-market guidebooks.

Description

Additional information, how this book will help you.

• Discover interesting facts about Iceland so you get a better understandng of the local culture. Did you know 80% of the population believes in elves? Well, you do now! And you’ll know a lot more when you’ve finished this book.
• Get the lowdown on all regions of Iceland – where to go and what to see, where to stay, eat, and shop – so you know which area best suits your interests!
• Get ALL the essential tips that make guidebooks important: information on transportation, tipping, visas, public holidays, embassies, currencies, emergency numbers, business hours, weather, and much, much more so you know the rules of Iceland and how best to get around!
• Get a list of the best books, movies, and music related to Iceland so you can get excited about your trip.
• This guide will show you how to avoid the crowds so you can enjoy the majestic beauty of nature without people getting in your way as they try to take another selfie. I’ll show places few tourists ever venture.

Get the Definitive Travel Guide to Iceland!

Get this guidebook and navigate like a local and travel Iceland cheaper, better, and smarter.

Last updated: January 2020 Details: 197 pages of expert budget travel advice

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10 Best Books About Iceland to Read Before You Visit

This page contains affiliate links. Please read our disclosure for more info.

These Iceland books are the best way to prepare for your trip to this beautiful and unusual island.

Iceland is a very literary country. It has a near universal literacy rate, a tradition of reading that dates back to the 13th century Sagas, and one in ten Icelanders will publish a book in their lifetime.

Iceland publishes more books per capita than anywhere else in the world. Many of these are released during Jólabókaflóðið (Yule book flood) in the months before Christmas due to the tradition of giving books as Christmas presents (a custom I can heartily get behind).

The books about Iceland on this list include non-fiction to help you learn more about the culture and history of this isolated North Atlantic island, as well as novels set in Iceland by classic and contemporary Icelandic authors.

I really enjoyed delving into Icelandic literature as the country has produced a surprising number of excellent writers who’ve had great success abroad and been widely translated. Icelandic crime writers are especially popular, which is rather odd considering the low crime rates in the country.

These are my favourite Icelandic novels and non-fiction books.

Non-Fiction Books About Iceland

Icelandic novels, icelandic sagas.

1) The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland by Alda Sigmundsdottir

This is the one book I think everyone should read before visiting Iceland. It explains the tourism boom that has seen visitor numbers rise exponentially since 2010, what Icelanders think about us, and the impact it has had on the country.

You’ll learn what not to do, tips for touring Iceland safely and responsibly, and the truth about Iceland myths. It’s a short, easy and enjoyable read.

2) The Little Book of the Icelanders by Alda Sigmundsdottir

Another short and entertaining book by Alda, this is an insight into the unique Icelandic people with all their quirks.

The short essays cover naming conventions (including why names have to be approved by a committee and professions like alien tamer and ghostbuster are listed in the phone book), how hot tubs are the equivalent of British pubs, why Icelanders hate commitment, dating and family life, and the shower police at swimming pools.

3) Names for the Sea: Strangers in Iceland by Sarah Moss

Sometimes it’s useful to get an outsiders' perspective on a country. This is a memoir of a British woman who moved to Reykjavik with her family to teach at the University just after the economic crash. It’s a fascinating look at Icelandic culture as she struggles to fit into the close-knit society.

During her year in the country, she explores issues like the financial crisis, knitting, elves (the hidden people), life in the olden days, volcanic eruptions, and describes the passing of the seasons. I learnt a lot about the country and especially enjoyed the final section when she travels around the country and describes the beautiful Snaefellsness Peninsula.

Back to Contents

4) Woman at 1000 Degrees by Hallgrímur Helgason

I loved this highly original dark comedy about Herra Björnsson, an old Icelandic woman living in a garage with a hand grenade and a laptop. She spends her time on Facebook pretending to be other people, hacks into her children’s accounts, makes an appointment for her cremation, and looks back on her adventure-filled life.

The main focus of her memories is how she got caught up in WWII in Germany as a teenager when her father decided to fight for the Nazis. She retells her horrific experiences without any self-pity and often with comedy. Herra is unlike any character I’ve read before.

5) The Fish Can Sing by Halldór Laxness

Iceland’s most revered author, Halldór Laxness, won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1955. His book Independent People is considered one of the best Icelandic novels, but I decided to start with the more accessible (i.e less depressing) The Fish Can Sing .

It’s a lightly humorous coming of age novel about orphan Alfgrimur who spent his childhood in a simple turf cottage with an elderly fisherman and a stream of eccentric house guests. It’s a fascinating insight into early 20th-century life in Iceland—a time of change when Reykjavik was becoming the capital and large fishing boats threatened the lifestyle of simple fishermen.

6) I Remember You by Yrsa Sigurdardóttir

This ghost story is set in the Westfjords in the town of Ísafjörður (which we visited) and a remote village in Hornstrandir with two separate but slowly merging storylines. It’s atmospheric and creepy rather than gory, and although I’m not usually a horror fan, I enjoyed it.

7) The Draining Lake by Arnaldur Indriðason

Arnaldur Indriðason is the master of Nordic Noir with his bestselling Icelandic detective series featuring Inspector Erlendur. I dived in at number four in the series about a body that’s discovered in a lake near Reykjavik with ties to the Cold War era. It's an easy, enjoyable read with some insights into life in Iceland.

8) Butterflies in November by Auður Ava Ólafsdóttir

A zany black comedy about a woman who is dumped twice in one day, wins a summer cabin and the lottery, and takes off on a road trip around Iceland’s Ring Road with a deaf-mute four-year-old. Their madcap adventures make a fun read. 

9) Burial Rites by Hannah Kent

This is the only novel by a non-Icelandic writer on the list, but it’s obvious that Australian author Hannah Kent has done a huge amount of research for her book set in Iceland.

It’s a fictionalised account of the true story of Agnes Magnussdottir, the last woman executed in Iceland in 1830. There are no prisons in the country so she’s sent to a farm to await her execution and we gradually learn how she was convicted of murder. It seems to present a realistic depiction of the harsh life in rural Iceland in the early 1800s.

The story is reminiscent of Alias Grace and is being made into a film starring Jennifer Lawrence.

10) The Sagas of the Icelanders

The Icelandic Sagas are one of the world’s greatest literary treasures. They were written in the 13th century and documented the settlement of Iceland by Vikings in the 9th century and the early struggles and conflicts of the first settlers.

The Sagas are hugely important in Iceland, and you’ll see references to them everywhere. I found the introduction to this collection of Sagas useful to get an understanding of their importance, but I admit I struggled to get through the tales themselves. It’s definitely worth trying though!

I hope these Iceland books give you some insight into the culture so you’ll make the most of your experience in this fascinating country.

I also recommend the Lonely Planet Iceland guidebook for planning your trip as well as these other posts:

• Planning a Trip to Iceland: DOs and DON’Ts
• Iceland Itinerary: Off The Beaten Path on a Snæfellsnes and Westfjords Road Trip
• 14 Places Not to Miss on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
• How Much Does an Iceland Trip Cost? Our Road Trip Budget
• The Ultimate Iceland Packing List for Men and Women (Carry-On Only)
• Visiting Iceland in September: What to Expect and Things to Do

If you’re looking for more travel reading, see our book guides to Japan and South Africa and our favourite travel memoirs and coffee table travel books . 

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Your travel posts and tips are excellent. Thank you for all of this great information. My only comment concerns travel insurance. The majority of travel insurance carriers do not cover anyone 70 years and older. This is very frustrating as I am 70, in great health, and love to travel though I can not find travel insurance.

Reply ↓

I agree it is very annoying that most travel insurance doesn’t cover over 70s. It is possible to get cover but it will need to be from a specialised provider and will be more expensive. It depends where you are from what the options are. I hope you are able to find some.

I would add Iceland Saga by Magnus Magnusson to your list. It’s a great description of different places in Iceland with a historical or saga event that happened there. It really made the place come alive for me.

Thanks for the recommendation!

Having visited a paradise called Iceland in 2017, I’ve developed a deep love for Icelandic literature. I loved-loved Burial Rites by Hannah Kent. Good to see Hallgrimur and Arnaldur in the list – though I’m yet to read the books featured here. But I enjoyed The Shadow District and Silence of the Grave by Arnaldur and The Hitman’s Guide to Housecleaning by Halgrimur. Looking forward to reading more Icelandic books! (Also, I think it would done justice to acknowledge the English translators of most of the books in the list!)

Thanks for the recommendations Peter!

I’m planning a trip to Iceland for February and I’m already excited! I will definitely consider reading some of the books from your list – or get one as a gift for my husband who’s going with me as a Christmas gift. Time to start building the anticipation! :) Thanks for sharing!

I love building anticipation before a trip by reading books too! Happy reading!

Nice post! Thanks for sharing!

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10 Best Books About Iceland To Read

• by Jonny Duncan
• October 2, 2023 January 3, 2024

These books about Iceland, a land of fire and ice, where glaciers meet volcanoes and the midnight sun dances with the northern lights, show the country perfectly.

Nestled in the North Atlantic Ocean, this remote island nation is a place of breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and literary traditions that date back centuries.

From the ancient sagas that chronicle the exploits of Viking heroes to contemporary works that explore the soul of modern society, books about Iceland offer you a window into a world both enchanting and enigmatic.

Books About Iceland

Whether you’re seeking epic tales of exploration, poetic reflections on the landscape, or insightful glimpses into the lives of its people, these books about Iceland will give you that.

Not surprisingly, given the historical connection between Iceland and the Vikings, there are some historic Viking-related books here, but also contemporary ones looking at modern Iceland and their culture.

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland you can find hotels in Reykjavik here .

Independent People by Halldór Laxness

Written by Halldór Laxness, Independent People was first published in 1934 and is considered one of the most significant works in Icelandic literature and a must-read out of all these books about Iceland.

The novel is set in rural Iceland during the early 20th century and tells the story of Bjartur, a stubborn and independent sheep farmer, as he struggles to achieve his dream of owning his own piece of land and achieving self-sufficiency.

The novel explores themes of isolation, self-reliance, and the harsh realities of rural life in Iceland. Bjartur’s character is a complex one, as his determination to be independent often leads to personal sacrifices and conflicts with his family.

The novel also delves into the socio-economic and political changes taking place in Iceland during this period. It’s known for its vivid descriptions of the Icelandic landscape and its rich character development.

It has been translated into numerous languages and has received international acclaim, including the Nobel Prize in Literature awarded to Halldór Laxness in 1955.

How Iceland Changed the World: The Big History of a Small Island by Egill Bjarnason

How Iceland Changed the World: The Big History of a Small Island was published in 2016 and provides an engaging exploration of the historical and cultural significance of Iceland.

The book covers a wide range of topics, including Iceland’s geological formation, its Viking heritage, the establishment of the Althing (one of the world’s oldest parliamentary institutions), the literary legacy of sagas, the country’s struggle for independence, and its modern contributions to global culture and technology.

Through a series of interconnected stories and narratives, Bjarnason argues that Iceland’s history and culture have had a surprisingly profound impact on the world, given its small population and remote location.

He explores how Iceland’s unique history and traditions have influenced everything from literature and politics to technology and environmental conservation.

Out of all the books about Iceland, this is a great overall one on the country to read and a personal favourite of Backpackingman.

Iceland’s Bell by Halldór Laxness

Iceland’s Bell (original Icelandic title: “Íslandsklukkan”) is another significant novel by Halldór Laxness. It was first published in 1943. Like many of Laxness’s works, “Iceland’s Bell” explores the history, culture, and social issues of Iceland in a richly detailed and evocative manner.

The novel is set in the 17th century, a turbulent period in Icelandic history marked by political and religious conflicts, foreign rule, and harsh living conditions. The story revolves around the character Jon Hreggvidsson, a wandering pauper who is wrongly accused of murder.

His journey through Iceland, along with other colourful characters he encounters, serves as a means to depict the challenges and struggles faced by the Icelandic people during this era.

The novel is considered one of Laxness’s masterpieces and has been translated into several languages.

The Sagas of Icelanders by Various Authors

The Sagas of Icelanders , often referred to as the “Íslendingasögur” in Icelandic, are a collection of medieval narratives that provide a detailed and vivid account of the history, culture, and society of Iceland during the Viking Age and the early Middle Ages.

These sagas were written in the 13th and 14th centuries, although they are set in earlier periods, primarily the 9th to the 11th centuries.

Unlike the more mythical and legendary sagas found in other parts of Scandinavia, the Sagas of Icelanders are known for their realism. They depict everyday life, feuds, legal disputes, and personal relationships, making them valuable sources for understanding the social and legal systems of medieval Iceland.

There are two main categories of sagas: the Sagas of the Icelanders (Íslendingasögur), which primarily focus on the lives and conflicts of Icelandic families, and the Kings’ Sagas (Konungasögur), which chronicle the history of Scandinavian kings.

The sagas are set against the backdrop of Iceland’s settlement, conversion to Christianity, and the shift from a pagan to a Christian society. They also provide insights into the exploration of new lands, including Greenland and Vinland (North America).

The Sagas of Icelanders have had a profound influence on Icelandic literature and culture. They continue to be studied, translated, and adapted in various forms to this day. This is one of the most classic books about Iceland to read.

Names for the Sea: Strangers in Iceland by Sarah Moss

Names for the Sea: Strangers in Iceland is a memoir by British author Sarah Moss. In this book, Moss reflects on her experiences as she and her family move to Iceland for a year.

It’s a personal narrative that explores her encounters with Icelandic culture, society, and the challenges of adapting to life in a foreign land.

“Names for the Sea” provides you with a firsthand account of what it’s like to live in Iceland, including the challenges of learning the Icelandic language and integrating into the local community.

Moss offers observations on Icelandic culture, customs, and traditions, shedding light on the uniqueness of Icelandic society and its contrasts with her own British background.

The book also delves into Iceland’s stunning natural landscapes and the beauty of the country’s wilderness, as well as the impact of the harsh Icelandic climate on daily life. This is one of the best books about Iceland for a travel-memoir style.

The Little Book of Icelanders in the Old Days by Alda Sigmundsdóttir

The Little Book of Icelanders in the Old Days is a book by Alda Sigmundsdóttir, an Icelandic author and blogger known for her writings about Iceland and its culture.

Published in 2012, this book offers insights into the history, customs, and quirks of Icelandic society from a historical perspective, particularly focusing on earlier times.

The book delves into various aspects of Icelandic culture and society, providing you with a glimpse into the customs, traditions, and way of life of Icelanders in the past.

It’s rooted in historical research and references, drawing from primary sources and historical accounts to paint a picture of what life was like in Iceland during earlier centuries.

The author’s writing style is known for its humour and wit, making this book on Iceland an engaging and entertaining read as it explores sometimes quirky and peculiar aspects of Icelandic culture.

Burial Rites: A Novel by Hannah Kent

Burial Rites is a historical novel first published in 2013. It is based on a true story and is set in Iceland in the 1820s. The novel tells the story of Agnes Magnúsdóttir, the last woman to be executed in Iceland.

Agnes Magnúsdóttir was convicted of murdering two men and setting their farm on fire. She is sent to a remote farm to await her execution. While there, she is placed in the custody of a family who are initially reluctant to take her in.

As Agnes awaits her fate, she forms a complex and transformative relationship with the family members and the local priest who is tasked with preparing her for her execution.

The novel explores themes of isolation, injustice, and the human capacity for change and redemption. It is beautifully written and has received critical acclaim for its vivid portrayal of the harsh Icelandic landscape and its compelling characters.

Secrets of the Sprakkar: Iceland’s Extraordinary Women and How They Are Changing the World by Eliza Reid

Secrets of the Sprakkar : Iceland’s Extraordinary Women and How They Are Changing the World was published in 2020. The word “Sprakkar” in the title is an Icelandic term that can be roughly translated to “strong women” or “brave women.”

The book focuses on the stories of remarkable Icelandic women who have made significant contributions to various fields and have had a positive impact on society both in Iceland and beyond.

The author profiles a diverse group of women, including politicians, artists, activists, scientists, and entrepreneurs, highlighting their achievements and the challenges they have faced along the way.

Secrets of the Sprakkar not only celebrates the accomplishments of these women but also explores the broader themes of gender equality, women’s rights, and the unique cultural and social factors that have contributed to Iceland’s reputation for gender parity.

Iceland is often cited as one of the world’s leaders in gender equality, and the book delves into the historical and cultural aspects that have played a role in shaping this status.

The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland by Alda Sigmundsdóttir

Another book by Alda Sigmundsdóttir, The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland , this one provides an insightful and humorous look at the impact of tourism on Iceland from the perspective of an Icelander.

It explores the rapid increase in tourism to Iceland in recent years and the various ways in which it has affected the country, its culture, and its people. Alda Sigmundsdóttir offers her observations, anecdotes, and advice for tourists visiting Iceland, all while sharing her love for her homeland.

This is one of the better books about Iceland to get a better understanding of Icelandic customs , traditions, and etiquette, as well as to encourage responsible and respectful tourism. It also sheds light on some of the challenges and opportunities that have arisen as a result of Iceland’s growing popularity as a tourist destination.

The Far Traveler: Voyages of a Viking Woman by Nancy Marie Brown

The Far Traveler: Voyages of a Viking Woman was published in 2007 and is a non-fiction biographical account that explores the life and adventures of a remarkable Viking woman named Gudrid Thorbjarnardóttir.

Gudrid Thorbjarnardóttir, a Viking woman who lived during the 10th and 11th centuries, was known for her extensive travels, which took her from her native Iceland to places like Greenland and North America.

Nancy Marie Brown blends historical research with narrative storytelling to reconstruct Gudrid’s life and times. She draws upon medieval sagas and archaeological evidence to provide a detailed and historically accurate portrait of this remarkable woman.

Through the book, you gain an understanding of Gudrid’s character, her resilience, and her role as a key figure in the Viking exploration of the North Atlantic. Her story challenges the traditional gender roles of her time.

One Extra: The Nordic Baking Book by Magnus Nilsson

I’ve tapped The Nordic Baking Book at the end here as one extra because technically it’s not just about Iceland but includes all the Nordic countries.

It’s also technically not about the countries themselves but rather famous recipes for food from these countries, so if you want to have a go at cooking Icelandic food and other Nordic foods, then this is a good book to get.

Travel Guidebooks For Iceland

There are many good travel guides for Iceland with these being some of the best.

Rick Steves Iceland is not only one of the best guidebooks for the country but could even be considered one of the best books about Iceland in its own right due to his in-depth observations.

Lonely Planet Iceland is a standard of the guidebooks for Iceland and gives good overall practical information for visiting.

Iceland Bradt Travel Guides is one of the better guidebooks you can get. They are a smaller independent guidebook company from the U.K. that gives great advice and knowledge for Iceland. On a personal note, Backpackingman regularly uses Bradt Travel Guides.

These books about Iceland cover a range of topics related to Iceland, from its literature and history to its natural beauty and people.

Whether you’re interested in sagas, contemporary life, or the country’s unique culture, there’s something on this list for you.

Iceland really is one of the most magnificent countries in the world that you can visit.

For more on Iceland take a look at the 10 best documentaries about Iceland to watch .

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Best Books on Iceland (fiction and non-fiction)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: October 17, 2021

This post may contain compensated links meaning if you buy through them we get a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please read our  disclosure  for additional information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Are you planning to visit Iceland? Why not prepare for your trip to Iceland by reading some of the fantastic novels set in this stunningly beautiful country!

In this selection, I include some of the best books on Iceland – fiction and non-fiction – about Iceland to help prepare you for your visit. Elf stories, Viking dramas, and murder mysteries.

Iceland has a very strong literary and storytelling culture. It is traditional to give books as gifts at Christmas and every Icelander receives at least one book under the Christmas tree. 

Iceland also publishes more books per capita than any other country in the world. The majority of books are published and sold in the 2 months running up to Christmas. This is called the  jólabókaflóð or the Christmas book flood!

This love of storytelling is reflected in Icelandic culture . The famous Icelandic Sagas appeared in written form in the 13th century. During the long dark winters in Iceland, a tradition built of communal reading and storytelling.

What better way to get through the harsh cold conditions than sitting around a warm fire listening to tales, poetry and stories? So not only are they amazing storytellers but they also have a beautiful yet brooding landscape to set them in!

Why not purchase a selection of these Icelandic novels and books to take with you on your trip! Looking for itinerary suggestions? This 10 day Iceland ring road trip is the perfect way to enjoy your visit.

Best books on Iceland

The best iceland books - fiction.

A selection of the best fiction books set in Iceland.

Burial Rites

A fantastic literary debut from Hannah Kent. This book is inspired by a true story about the final days of a woman accused of murder in Iceland in 1829.

The Sagas of Icelanders: (Penguin Classics Deluxe Edition)

This volume includes ten sagas and seven shorter tales set around the turn of the last millennium. If your interest is in Viking Sagas this book is for you!

Snowblind: A Thriller (The Dark Iceland Series)

Set in a quiet fishing village in northern Iceland this brilliant debut novel from Ragnar Jonasson will keep you enthralled until the very last terrifying page. Introducing Ari Thor the central character across  The Dark Iceland Series  this novel typifies the murder mystery genre in which the Nordic countries excel.

Names for the Sea: Strangers in Iceland 

Sarah Moss had a childhood dream of moving to Iceland, sustained by a wild summer there when she was nineteen. In 2009, she saw an advertisement for a job at the University of Iceland and applied on a whim, despite having two young children and a comfortable life in Kent, England.

The resulting adventure was shaped by Iceland’s economic collapse, which halved the value of her salary; by the eruption of the volcano Eyjafjallajokull; and by a collection of new friends

The Girl with the Raven Tongue

When a girl’s shoes are found beside a dead raven, and the search for her body is called off, it is left to Police Constable Petra Jensen to close the case and allow the parents to grieve. But when another young woman disappears, Petra must face an Arctic winter in pursuit of a killer who leaves no trace. And she has only her own intuition to guide her…

A Greenland Missing Persons Novella set in the harsh, unpredictable Arctic with its rich tradition of storytelling.

Independent People

A true masterpiece of Icelandic fiction Independent People is a deeply rewarding novel. Written by  Nobel prize winning author Halldor Laxness Iceland’s most prolific author.

Wild Horses of the Summer Sun: A Memoir of Iceland

Wild Horses of the Summer Sun: A Memoir of Iceland is a wondrous story about Tory Bilski and her friends’ adventures during their annual riding trip to northern Iceland. These women meet up once a year to ride Icelandic horses, and they share an extraordinary experience together.

Their friendship becomes stronger as each woman learns more about herself and what she is capable of doing. This book will inspire you to live your dreams and make new friendships along the way.

The Little Book of the Hidden People: Twenty stories of elves from Icelandic folklore

A fabulous book about Icelandic folklore. A folklore that is rife with tales of elves and hidden people that inhabited hills and rocks in the landscape. If you read this before you go you will know exactly what to look out for!

The Fish Can Sing (Vintage International)

Another choice written by Iceland’s most well know author Halldor Laxness. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for literature in 1955.

This novel gives a great introduction to Iceland and in particular Reykjavik in the early 20th century.

THE BEST ICELAND BOOKS - NON FICTION

My choice of the best non-fiction travel books about Iceland.

Rick Steves Iceland

I love Rick Steves and who better to have by your side as you hike vast glaciers, marvel at steaming volcanic lakes, and explore the land of the midnight sun!

The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland: Tips, tricks, and what the Icelanders really think of you

Iceland is in the middle of a tourist boom and it if we are visiting we need to do it responsibly or we will end up destroying what is so special about it. This is an essential companion for anyone visiting the country and if you only buy one book before you visit this is the one!

The Little Book of Icelandic: On the idiosyncrasies, delights, and sheer tyranny of the Icelandic language

Icelandic is one of the oldest languages in the world! This book will introduce you to its complexities and more (sections on slang and curse-words!) If you are interested in Icelandic culture and their language this is a must-read!

The Little Book of the Icelanders in the Old Days

A light and humorous look at life in Iceland over the centuries!

The Little Book of the Icelanders

A collection of 50 mini essays all about Icelanders – learn all about their quirks and foibles before you go!

Iceland 101

Packed full of tips to ensure your trip to Iceland is as smooth as possible – written by Icelanders who should know what they are talking about!

THE BEST ICELANDIC BOOKS - CUISINE

If you are interested in Icelandic cuisine this selection of the best cookery books is for you!

Homestyle Icelandic Cooking for American Kitchens

Whether you’re looking to connect with your roots, try something new or already love Icelandic cooking, this book is a must for your cookbook shelf.  This is a collection of 25 traditional everyday Icelandic recipes, translated with step-by-step instructions.

North: The New Nordic Cuisine of Iceland [A Cookbook]

Iceland is home to an utterly unique and captivating food scene, characterized by its distinctive indigenous ingredients, traditional farmers and artisanal producers, and wildly creative chefs and restaurants. Find out more in this cookbook and recreate some of the best dishes in your own kitchen!

THE BEST ICELAND BOOKS FOR CHILDREN

My choice of the best Iceland books for children of all ages.

A Kid's Guide to Iceland

A Kid's Guide to Iceland takes young readers (ages 9-12) on an exciting and colorful adventure to amazing Iceland and the Viking explorers who discovered it more than 1,000 years ago.

Iceland My Travel Diary: Kids Guided Journey 

Travel diary for kids! Keep them occupied completing this travel diary during their trip!

The Guardians of Iceland and other Icelandic Folk Tales

Children and adults alike will love these short stories all about trolls, elves and the hidden people! Contains 25 short stories!

Enjoyed these Iceland books? Read (or watch) more from around the world

If you enjoy reading do pop over to my complete guide to the best travel books from around the world where you will find my top choices for many countries including Norway , Denmark , Canada , Australia, and South Africa to name a few!

You can also find destination focussed TV series or movies set around the world including in Denmark , Italy , South Africa , Australia , and France . Perfect to download to watch on the plane!

• Best Icelandic TV series
• Nordic Noir and Scandinavian TV shows to watch on Netflix
• Best Nordic Noir books to read in 2021 and beyond

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10 Books to Read Before Visiting Iceland

Iceland has encountered a tourist boom in recent years, with around 2 million tourists a year. Flocking in to see all the natural wonders that it has to offer, it’s no surprise that Iceland is rich in history and culture, as well as incredible geography. Before your travels to this magnificent country, you may want to prepare yourself by learning more about the ways in which Icelandic culture has changed throughout its history.  Below are 10 books to read before traveling to Iceland that will surely prepare you for all the nation has to offer.

The History of Iceland    by Gunnar Karisson

If you’re looking for an objective and concise history of Iceland, look no further than Gunnar Karisson’s The History of Iceland . Founded as late as the Viking Age, Iceland is a unique country having extensive written and archaeological sources about its origin. This book includes a comprehensively written historical recount of the trials and tribulations that this country has endured. Beginning with the settlement era and continuing through the early modern age, The History of Iceland comes with no shortage of details, and will surely prepare you with all you need to know before you embark on your travels.

Names for the Sea: Strangers in Iceland   by Sarah Moss

Written by award winning author Sarah Moss, this autobiographical tale tells the story of her and her family as they move to Iceland for a year during its economic collapse of 2008. Accepting a teaching position at the University of Iceland, Moss follows her childhood dream leaves her comfortable life in England forcing her and her family to find new ways to live. Unlike your typical travel book, Names for the Sea: Strangers in Iceland will give you an outsider's perspective into the modern day culture of Iceland, as well as draw you towards diverse Icelandic landscape that you will experience throughout your trip.

The Promise of Iceland    by Kari Gislason

This captivating memoir follows the physical and emotional journey of author Kari Gislason as he travels to Iceland in attempt to find and meet his birth father. Pledged to secrecy, never revealing his father's true identity, Gislason travels between Iceland, England, and Australia all while discovering the true meaning of “home” through his experiences and the different people that he meets. This riveting journey through memory, time, and various landscapes, will inspire any reader to experience the Icelandic culture depicted in this novel for themselves.

Iceland 101    by Rúnar Þór Sigurbjörnsson

Iceland 101 by author Rúnar Þór Sigurbjörnsson has all the tips and tricks that you’ll need to know when it comes to touring and staying in Iceland. Compiled of five chapters, each one explaining the dos and don’ts of being a tourist in Iceland, Iceland 101 is the perfect guide to the culture and geography of this breathtaking country. Short and to the point, you can even read this book on your plane ride while you await all that Iceland has to offer.

The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland   by Alda Sigmundsdottir

In this series of short essays, author Alda Sigmundsdottir provides a unique insight into the positive and negative impacts that tourism has had on modern day Iceland, both socially and environmentally. Well written and extremely informative, this book serves as a guide to touring Iceland, packed with tips on how to explore the magnificent country safely and responsibly. A must-read for anybody planning a trip to Iceland, take advantage of this fascinating resource to ensure that you understand the ins and outs of the many facets of Iceland.

Burial Rites   by Hannah Kent

Inspired by a true story, this fictionalized tale written by Hannah Kent recounts the final days of a young woman named Agnes Magnúsdóttir, after she is accused of murder and condemned to death in northern Iceland in 1829. This chilling tale, not for the faint of heart, depicts the realistic and harsh life of rural Iceland in the early 19th century. Sent to await her execution at an isolated farm, the story of Agnes is riveting, and evokes the reality of an old and distant Iceland.

The Sagas of the Icelanders   by Jane Smiley

This fascinating collection of medieval literature tells the tales of the age of the Vikings, also known as the saga age. Written in the 13th century, documenting the settlement of Vikings in Iceland in the 9th century, this challenging yet rewarding read paints a vivid picture of what it was like in Iceland during the medieval age. Giving you an in depth insight into the past and an important piece of Icelandic culture, The Sagas of the Icelanders will prepare for your trip like none other.

The Fish Can Sing   by Halldor Laxness

Written by Nobel prize winner Halldór Laxness, The Fish Can Sing is a coming of age tale about a young orphan boy Algrimur living in a small village of Brekkukot in the outskirts of Reykjavik with his foster grandparents. This light and humorous tale provides insight into early 20th century life in Iceland during a tumultuous period as Reykjavik became the country’s capital,  and large fishing boats threatened the lifestyle of simple fisherman like Algimur’s foster grandfather. Prepare for your trip to Iceland by reading this book that truly encompasses the turn of the 20th century.

Viking Age Iceland   by Jesse Byock

Breaking away from the traditional scholarly methods and interpretations typically seen in history books, author Jesse Byock combines environmental science, anthropology, and archaeology to tell the tales of the Icelandic sagas in Viking Age Iceland. Engaging and well written, this book is the perfect introduction to the society and politics of Iceland from the settlement days through the 13th century. For those fascinated with the Viking Age, this medieval history lesson is necessary in preparing your trip.

The Little Book of Icelanders  by Alda Sigmundsdottir

This collection of 50 miniature essays is the perfect quick cultural introduction to all the quirks and foibles of the Icelandic people, and what it’s like to live among them. The Little Book of Icelanders is easy to read and jam packed with fun facts and information about Iceland’s culture, from the role that family plays in society, to why beer was banned in the country until 1989. Entertaining yet informative, this book will help you understand why Icelanders act the way they do, and what has made Iceland the country that it is today.

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Tumbling in a broad sweep over a 100m-rocky scarp at the head of Dynjandivogur bay, Dynjandi is the most dramatic waterfall in the Westfjords. The bumpy…

The Golden Circle

One of Iceland’s most famous tourist attractions, Geysir (gay-zeer; literally ‘gusher’) is the original hot-water spout after which all other geysers are…

Þingvellir National Park

The world’s oldest parliament, Althingi (pronounced ál-thingk-ee; also called Alþing) was uniquely situated at this monumental site where two tectonic…

Alþingi Site

Near the dramatic Almannagjá fault and fronted by a boardwalk is the Lögberg (Law Rock), where the Alþingi (Parliament) convened annually. This was where…

Tectonic Plates

The Þingvellir plain is situated on a tectonic-plate boundary where North America and Europe are tearing away from each other at a rate of 1mm to 18mm per…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

When traveling in Iceland, pay attention to its place names, you may even recognise one from the Icelandic sagas. Read on to find out how to learn more.

Things to Know

Plan the perfect visit to Iceland with these top tips on packing, the environment and local etiquette.

Transportation

It may be small but Iceland can be mightily difficult to get around. The scale and savagery of the landscape make traveling tricky – here's how to do it.

Visa Requirements

It depends on your citizenship. Read on to find out if you need a visa to visit Iceland, and more information if you do (and even if you don’t).

Money and Costs

Make your krónur go further in Iceland with these budget tips.

Traveling with Kids

Don't let Iceland's wild terrain fool you – there are lots of amazing attractions here for kids of all ages. Here's how to plan a family trip to Iceland.

Best Road Trips

Experience Iceland's incredible landscape and stunning small towns on one of our favorite Icelandic road trips.

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Best Selling Day Tours in Iceland

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Thingvellir

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Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

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Pick up, Self Drive

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Snowmobile on Vatnajokull | The Largest Glacier in Europe

South Iceland

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Fimmvorduhals Hiking Tour

Challenging

Reykjavik, Selfoss, Hella

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Best Selling Self Drive Activities in Iceland | Summer 2023

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The Silver Circle of West Iceland

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