The Ultimate Iceland Solo Female Travel Guide (For 2025!)
Dreaming of visiting Iceland solo, but not quite sure where to start? You’re in the right place!
This ultimate Iceland solo female travel guide has everything you need to plan a trip to Iceland that feels safe, exciting and totally doable (even if it’s your first time travelling solo!)
I’ve visited Iceland as a solo female traveller myself (during the famously brutal month of January, no less!), navigating icy roads, relaxing in dreamy lagoons, chasing the Northern Lights, and watching the sunrise over the Golden Circle.
And I can tell you that Iceland will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime!
But I also know it can feel super intimidating before your trip, especially if you’re visiting in winter like I did.
Is Iceland safe for women? Will I still be able to meet people, even with limited daylight? What about the crazy weather I’ve heard about? What if something goes wrong?!
Any of these questions sound like a familiar spiral? Because yep, me too!
That’s exactly why I’ve put together this guide. For all solo female travellers who want to experience all of the magic Iceland has to offer – without the stress.
I’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from the best things to do and where to stay, to what to pack, how to get around, how to stay safe, and how to make the most of your solo trip to Iceland!
Disclaimer: Some of the links on this blog are affiliate links. That means if you click on one and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission – at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products, places and services I genuinely love and use on my own solo travels. Thank you for supporting my adventures so I can continue to provide free content on this blog! 💛
Where Is Iceland?
Okay, let’s start with the basics!
Iceland is located in the Atlantic Ocean, right between Greenland and the UK. It’s part of the Nordic countries, but it’s technically not in Scandinavia.
What makes Iceland so special and unique is its wild and raw landscapes, from black sand beaches, lava fields and glaciers, to volcanoes, geysers and waterfalls.
But despite all of this, Iceland is surprisingly easy to get to!
Iceland’s main international airport is Keflavík, which is just 45 minutes from Reykjavik, and has regular flights to and from international airports around the world.
Why Iceland Is Perfect for Solo Female Travel
There are so few places in the world where you can get out into nature as a solo female traveller, and still feel completely safe and at ease.
But Iceland is definitely one of those places!
And for me, that’s what makes Iceland so special for solo female travellers.
Iceland consistently ranks as the safest country in the world (according to the Global Peace Index), crime rates are almost non-existent, and all of the locals I’ve met have been reserved but incredibly kind.
But it’s not just about safety, though.
Solo female travel in Iceland is perfect because it’s so easy to do alone!
Iceland is just set up so well for tourism, especially in Reykjavik, with plenty of tours ready to take you to even the most remote corners of the island, easy car rentals and great WIFI – plus most locals speak fluent English!
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re curious about whether it’s really worth visiting Iceland (especially in winter), I wrote a full post about it: Is Iceland Worth Visiting in Winter? What You Must Know!
Is Iceland Safe for Women?
As women, safety is always in the back of our minds when we travel solo, right?
And for good reason. The world can definitely be a scary place sometimes.
But Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world for women.
Violent crime is almost unheard of, locals are generally respectful, and even at night (while I was out walking alone after a Northern Lights tour at 3am), Reykjavik felt calm, and I didn’t feel uneasy.
(And I have never, ever said that about walking alone at night anywhere else in the world!)
The attitude towards women here is also progressive, and Iceland even ranks at the top of the Global Gender Gap Index! (And has for over a decade!)
But don’t get me wrong, the fact that Iceland feels so safe for women doesn’t mean you can switch off your solo travel safety habits completely.
Nature, in particular, is powerful and is any tourist’s biggest risk here.
Unpredictable weather, slippy pavements, powerful sneaker waves and icy driving conditions are definitely more of a worry than people.
So always check road conditions before driving, keep an eye on any storm warnings, follow all signs and advice at attractions, and never underestimate the weather.
For more insights (and some personal stories!), I’ve written an honest guide on this exact topic: Is Iceland Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
Katie’s Top Tip: Bottom line, always trust your gut (and the Icelandic weather app too!!) Also download SafeTravel.is before you go to stay informed about road closures, storm alerts and safety updates.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Iceland?
Honestly? This 100% depends on what kind of trip you want!
Summer in Iceland (June to August) is perfect if you want unlimited daylight under the Midnight Sun, warm weather and easy driving conditions (especially for exploring the famous Ring Road!)
It’s perfect for first-timers who want to see the best of Iceland without having to deal with snow or ice, but it is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
Winter in Iceland (November to March) is where I truly believe Iceland feels most magical.
With partially frozen waterfalls, steamy lagoons, and the Northern Lights (hopefully!) dancing above you, Iceland in winter is quieter, more affordable, and a completely different experience.
If you’re curious about what it’s really like visiting Iceland in winter, I spill all the details in my post: Is Iceland Worth Visiting in Winter? What You Must Know!
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re torn, plan for shoulder season, which are the months of April, May, September or October. You’ll get the best of both worlds then, with fewer crowds, low(er!) prices and still a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights in all months except May.
How Many Days Do You Need in Iceland?
This depends a lot on your travel style and also what you want to experience, but in my experience, I think 5-7 days in Iceland is ideal.
That gives you enough time to explore Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, the South Coast, and even the underrated Snaefellsnes Peninsula without rushing.
If you’ve got a little longer, you could explore the whole of Iceland’s famous Ring Road or head north to Akureyri for a less touristy side of Iceland.
But in my opinion, I think 5 days in Iceland is the perfect balance of being able to see all of the highlights that make Iceland so magical, being more budget-friendly, and being manageable for a first-time solo trip to Iceland.
I’ve written a full breakdown of what to prioritise for different length stays in my post How Many Days Do You Need in Iceland in Winter!
Katie’s Top Tip: Keep in mind that if you’re travelling in winter, daylight hours can be as short as 4–5 hours (in December and early January), so try to embrace slower travel in these months too!
How to Get to Iceland
Getting to Iceland is easier than you probably think it is!
Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is only 45 minutes from Reykjavik, and has direct flights from lots of major cities around the world.
Then, once you land, getting into the city centre is simple too.
Flybus shuttles run regularly between the airport and multiple stops throughout Reykjavik city centre. Or you can rent a car right from the terminal if you’re planning a road trip!
Katie’s Top Tip: For solo travel in Iceland, driving gives you total freedom, but if you’re not confident driving in winter conditions, day trips and multi-day small group trips are the perfect alternative! (This is what I did – the idea of driving in Iceland in winter terrifies me!!)
Best Things to Do in Iceland
One of the best parts of solo female travel in Iceland is how much there is to see (and also just how easy it is to do it all on your own!)
What I love the most is that every landscape feels cinematic and magical, and even as a solo female traveller, you can go from visiting a dramatic black sand beach to standing on the edge of an icy glacier lagoon in just one day!
If you’re looking to plan your trip around Iceland’s most beautiful spots, start with the highlights: the Golden Circle, the South Coast, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and the Blue Lagoon.
Each of these spectacular areas of Iceland is so worth visiting as they all offer something totally unique, with geysers and waterfalls in the Golden Circle, and glacier lagoons and black sand beaches on the South Coast.
To help you plan your route, I’ve written detailed solo travel guides for each region (no car needed!):
19 Prettiest Places in Iceland Every Traveller Must See
Iceland’s Blue Lagoon in Winter: What to Expect (and Pack!)
How to See Iceland’s Golden Circle in Winter (Without a Car)
How to Visit Iceland’s South Coast in Winter (Without a Car)
Iceland’s Snaefellsnes Peninsula in Winter (Without a Car)
Katie’s Top Tip: Iceland’s weather can change in minutes (seriously, when I was exploring the South Coast I saw a sleet storm, heavy rain and sunshine all in 1 hour!) So always check the road and weather before going out, and if you’re in any doubt about driving yourself, book tours instead to be safe.
The Best Iceland Itinerary for Solo Female Travellers
If you’re planning your Iceland solo itinerary, five days is the perfect amount of time to see Iceland’s highlights without feeling rushed!
Here’s a quick rundown of how I recommend spending your time (or if you want the full version, steal my full itinerary on How to Spend 5 Days in Iceland in Winter (Without A Car!):
Day 1 – Reykjavik: Relax into life in Iceland by exploring the colourful capital! Visit Hallgrímskirkja Church and maybe even take a whale watching boat trip from the harbour!
Day 2 – The Golden Circle: Explore Iceland’s most famous (and beautiful!) route, from Thingvellir National Park and the Geysir Geothermal Area to the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall and the Blue Lagoon!
Day 3 – Iceland’s South Coast: This stretch of coast has some of Iceland’s most spectacular natural scenery, with Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss Waterfalls, the (in)famous Reynisfjara Beach and its sneaker waves, and Vik’s incredible viewpoint!
Day 4 – The Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Often called “Iceland in Miniature,” the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is quieter and more of a hidden gem, but that’s why I love it! Don’t miss the rugged cliffs of Arnarstapi and, of course, the famous Game of Thrones mountain, Kirkjufell!
Day 5 – Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach: Spend your final full day in Iceland at the majestic Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, watching icebergs bob in the water and seals play between them! Yes, it’s a long day, but it actually ended up being my favourite day trip from Reykjavik!
Day 5 – Alternative: If you don’t have a 5th full day in Iceland, spend a slow morning at the Blue Lagoon or explore more of beautiful Reykjavik before heading to the airport.
Katie’s Top Tip: When you’re planning your first ever solo trip to Iceland, base yourself in Reykjavik and then book small-group day tours to each region. Alternatively, book a complete 8-day Ring Road tour to explore all of Iceland’s highlights within the safety of a small group of fellow solo travellers and a passionate local guide!
Best Iceland Group Tours for Solo Travellers
If you’re not renting a car, group tours are amazing for solo female travellers in Iceland!
I found all the tours I took to be safe and take me straight to Iceland’s most incredible spots (without the stress of winter driving or navigating remote areas on my own!)
Plus, I got to spend each day with passionate local guides who had so much knowledge to share about Iceland, and meet fellow solo female travellers along the way!
These are the Iceland group tours from Reykjavik I’ve personally taken and loved:
- Pick this Small Group Golden Circle, Crater & Blue Lagoon Minibus Tour for the perfect intro to Iceland’s most beautiful (and famous!) spots.
- Take this South Coast Small-Group Adventure for waterfalls, glaciers and black sand beaches, all in just one day!
- The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach Tour was my favourite group tour in Iceland! It’s a long day, but definitely the most beautiful!
- This Small Group Northern Lights Hunt has a knowledgeable guide who takes you to the very best spots to chase the auroras!
- The Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Kirkjufell Small Group Tour is a quieter and more local experience, but it is absolutely worth it for the spectacular scenery!
All of these tours depart from Reykjavik city centre, so you can easily join them without needing to drive or switch hotels every night!
Katie’s Top Tip: I’ve shared even more ideas (plus my honest reviews) in my post 7 Unmissable Day Trips From Reykjavik in Winter (No Car!) for more help planning your Iceland solo itinerary!
Where to Stay as a Solo Female Traveller in Iceland
If you’re travelling solo in Iceland, I 100% recommend basing yourself in central Reykjavik.
It’s safe, walkable to everything, and is where almost all tour pick-ups and drop-offs happen.
And let me tell you, this makes life SO much easier! (Especially in winter when daylight hours are super short and icy roads aren’t ideal for reaching more remote accommodation.)
When I visited, I stayed at Center Hotels Plaza, and honestly, I still recommend it to every solo traveller that asks!
It’s the perfect mid-range hotel, with a super central location (right by the main square), very clean and comfortable rooms, lovely staff, and a delicious hot and cold breakfast included (which saves you a surprising amount of money!)
The staff at Hotel Plaza, in particular, went above and beyond for me during my stay, even moving my accommodation up by a night (without any extra charge) when my incoming flight was cancelled due to severe weather.
But, if you’re after somewhere more luxurious for your stay, check out the Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre, which is stylish, modern and within walking distance to everything.
Or, for a budget-friendly option, Kex Hostel and Hotel is a favourite for good reason, with a cosy, social vibe that’s perfect if you want to meet other travellers!
Katie’s Top Tip: Book accommodation that includes breakfast, both to save money (food is so pricey in Iceland) and to start your day early for tours without having to hunt for an open café in the dark!
Food in Iceland for Solo Travellers
Okay, let’s now talk about my favourite topic: food!
Eating out in Iceland (and especially in Reykjavik) is very easy (but pricey!), and locals are very used to people dining alone, so you won’t feel out of place.
I found every restaurant I visited in Iceland was relaxed and welcoming to me as a solo female traveller.
Iceland is most famous for its hearty dishes like lamb soup, hot dogs, fish stew and even sheep’s head! (Yes, really… and no, I didn’t try it! But maybe you’re braver than me?!)
Some of my favourite cafes and restaurants in Reykjavik are:
- Café Loki
- C is For Cookie
- Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur Hot Dog Stand
- Kol Restaurant
Eating out can be expensive, though, so mix restaurant meals with supermarket lunches, so you’re getting a hot meal a day without breaking the bank.
In supermarkets like Bonus and Kronan, you can easily grab sandwiches and plenty of other snacks for day trips or lunches.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re on a budget, stock up on groceries and then treat yourself to one nice hot restaurant meal a day.
What to Pack for Iceland Solo Female Travel
Layers are your best friend when packing for Iceland solo female travel!
I’m not kidding when I say that staying warm and dry is the one difference between having a dreamy day trip and a miserable one!
(I’ve experienced both and I’d pick dreamy every time – being wet and cold all day isn’t fun!)
These are your layering essentials:
- Thermal base layers
- A windproof and waterproof coat
- Merino wool or fleece mid-layer
- Sturdy waterproof boots with good grip (so important, especially in winter!)
- Merino wool socks
- Touchscreen gloves
- A warm hat that covers your ears
- A scarf or neck gaiter to help with wind chill
Also, don’t forget these essential extras:
- A portable charger
- Slip-on crampons
- A universal adapter
- Moisturiser and lip balm (the air is dry here!)
- Swimwear for hot springs
- A small rucksack for tours
- Travel insurance
Katie’s Top Tip: Skip the umbrella here (trust me, the wind will just destroy it in seconds – ask me how I know!!) Instead, invest in a proper waterproof and windproof coat with a hood.
Top Tips for Solo Female Travel in Iceland
Iceland is one of the easiest and safest countries in the world for solo female travellers, but of course, that doesn’t mean you don’t need to plan.
These are my 5 top tips to help your Iceland solo trip feel smooth and stress-free (you can also find even more in my post 15 Iceland Travel Tips for Winter You’ll Be Glad You Know!)
- Pack for practicality, not fashion, as Icelandic weather is notoriously unpredictable and staying warm and dry should always beat fashion here!
- Join small group tours, especially for activities like glacier hiking, exploring ice caves or chasing the Northern Lights. An expert will make these experiences safer and more fun, too!
- Always check the road and weather conditions before heading out for the day, especially if you’re self-driving.
- Budget for food. Eating out is expensive in Iceland, so stock up on groceries from Bonus or Kronan supermarket for easy lunches.
- Stay connected by picking up a SIM card at the airport or using an eSim, for Google Maps navigation and also your safety when out and about.
Katie’s Top Tip: Download the Safe Travel Iceland app before your trip. It’s a safety app that lets you share your location with Icelandic emergency services if you’re in trouble and also provides updates on weather and road conditions.
Final Thoughts
If you’re still wondering whether to actually book your dream solo trip to Iceland, take this as your sign to just do it!
Iceland is safe, peaceful and beautiful, and just makes solo female travel so easy, thanks to its amazing range of small group tours and well-connected capital, Reykjavik.
And yeah, I get it, Iceland is definitely not the cheapest destination to visit when you’re not splitting costs with someone else (and the weather is more than a little crazy in winter!)
But I promise Iceland is worth the effort to visit.
There’s just something so magical about standing alone at the edge of a mighty glacier lagoon, seeing the Northern Lights for the very first time, or watching the sunrise over the Golden Circle.
You won’t get experiences quite like that anywhere else in the world.
Iceland made me feel so capable in myself and also made me fall in love with solo female travel all over again, and I just know it will do the same for you!
FAQs About Iceland Solo Female Travel
How much does a solo trip to Iceland cost?
Iceland is famous for being one of Europe’s most expensive tourist destinations, but it doesn’t have to break the bank.
My 5-day solo trip in January cost roughly £1600 for the mid-range Center Hotels Plaza in the heart of Reykjavik, return flights from London Gatwick, airport transfers in Reykjavik on the Flybus, four day tours, a Northern Lights tour, and food.
But your costs could be lower or higher than that, as it will entirely depend on your travel style, the time of year, and what you want to see and do.
Small group tours are definitely the biggest splurge, but in my opinion, they are so worth it for the magical experience and amazing guides!
Is Iceland safe for solo female travellers?
Yes, Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world for solo female travellers!
Violent crime is rare, locals are mostly friendly and fluent in English, and solo travel in Iceland is very popular, so you won’t stand out.
The biggest risks in Iceland are from nature rather than people, with unpredictable weather, icy roads and dangerous sneaker waves.
But this can be mitigated with some precautions, like joining small group tours instead of self-driving in winter, always checking the weather on safetravel.is before heading out, and always following signs and advice at attractions.
When is the best time to visit Iceland for solo travellers?
It depends on what kind of trip you want!
Summer in Iceland (June–August) has endless daylight hours, green landscapes, incredible wildlife and accessible roads. This time of year is perfect for first-time solo travellers or if you want to see the entire Ring Road.
Winter in Iceland (November–March) brings lots of snow, the Northern Lights, cheaper prices and fewer crowds. But it’s also darker and colder, has shorter days, and pavements and roads are often icy.
Do I need to rent a car for solo travel in Iceland?
No, not necessarily. If you’re basing yourself in Reykjavik, you can join small-group tours to easily explore the highlights like the Golden Circle, South Coast and Snaefellsnes Peninsula without a car.
If you want total independence, though, renting a car in Iceland is a good option. Just be aware that if you’re visiting in winter, roads are often icy and the weather changes quickly, so make sure you’re confident driving in those conditions.
For your first trip, I recommend you skip the car and take small-group day tours instead. You’ll still see Iceland’s highlights, without the stress of driving yourself (especially in winter!)
How many days do you really need in Iceland?
For a first solo trip, 5–7 days is perfect. That’s enough time to see Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, the South Coast and even the underrated Snaefellsnes Peninsula!
If you have longer, 10–14 days lets you explore Iceland more slowly and even visit the entire famous Ring Road!
I’ve written a detailed post on this, How Many Days Do You Need in Iceland in Winter?, with sample itineraries by trip length!
Is tap water safe to drink in Iceland?
Yes! Iceland’s tap water is some of the cleanest in the world, so there’s no need to buy bottled water. Just pack a reusable bottle and refill it throughout your trip to save money and reduce plastic waste!
Can I meet people easily in Iceland as a solo traveller?
Yes! Iceland attracts loads of other solo travellers, especially in Reykjavik, in hostel accommodation, and on small-group tours.
I would recommend choosing small-group day tours over big buses, as then you’ll naturally meet fellow solo travellers if you wish, while still enjoying the freedom of solo travel!
Read More About Travel in Iceland:
- The Ultimate Iceland Solo Female Travel Guide (For 2025!)
- Iceland’s Snaefellsnes Peninsula in Winter (Without a Car!)
- How to Visit Iceland’s South Coast in Winter (Without a Car)
- 7 Unmissable Day Trips From Reykjavik in Winter (No Car!)
- How to See Iceland’s Golden Circle in Winter (Without a Car)
- Iceland’s Blue Lagoon in Winter: What to Expect (and Pack!)
- 15 Iceland Travel Tips for Winter You’ll Be Glad You Know
- How Many Days Do You Need in Iceland in Winter?
- How to Spend 5 Days in Iceland in Winter (Without A Car!)
- 19 Prettiest Places in Iceland Every Traveller Must See
- Is Iceland Worth Visiting in Winter? What You Must Know
- Is Iceland Safe For Solo Female Travellers? An Honest Guide
