Leave enough room in your suitcase for some Icelandic souvenirs
Stores in Iceland are similar to those in Europe and North America, with a wide variety of merchandise and souvenirs to bring back home. You will find noteworthy local specialities like woollen knitwear with unique patterns (e.g. lopapeysa sweaters) and tasty Icelandic liquorice candies.
Icelandic gift ideas
Iceland has many traditional craftsmen and craftswomen who create silver jewellery, gifts made of lava stones or fish leather, and handmade ceramics. There are also contemporary designers who create one-of-a-kind homeware and modern clothing.
We'd suggest perusing the many shops to get a feel for the local style and try on the famous woollen jumpers and scarves.
Business hours: when are shops open?
Most shops in Iceland are open between 9 AM and 6 PM, Monday to Friday. You can also pop in on Saturdays between 10 AM and 4 PM. Many shops are closed on Sundays with exception of shopping malls in Reykjavík and other shops in the capital's city centre.
Tax-free refunds
A refund of local value-added tax (VAT) is available for all visitors to Iceland. The refund is for purchases made within 3 months of departure from Iceland. Please check the minimum spending per item on the Iceland Revenue & Customs website.
Before leaving the country, you should bring the items, receipts and forms to the Keflavík Airport desk in the arrival hall (near the car rental office).
Need more Iceland expertise? Speak to our local consultants.
Thinking of planning a trip? Look at our range of tour and travel packages.
