Iceland Airwaves music festival, which runs from 5–7 November in Reykjavík, has added 42 artists from 12 countries to its official programme. As reported by RÚV, the event continues its tradition of showcasing diverse and innovative music from both Icelandic and international acts. What’s the Story? 42 artists from 12 countries added to the Iceland… The post Iceland Airwaves Announces Latest Lineup for 2026 appeared first on Iceland Review.

Homes in Iceland are taking longer to sell, while real house prices have declined and rental costs have remained broadly unchanged in real terms over the past year, according to the latest report from the Housing and Construction Authority (HMS). As reported by RÚV, the report indicates that activity in the housing market has slowed… The post Iceland Housing Market Slows as Selling Times Increase appeared first on Iceland Review.

Iceland is celebrating Independence Day today, June 17, with events taking place across the country to mark the anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Iceland in 1944. The date commemorates the moment Iceland formally ended its union with Denmark and became an independent republic following a national referendum. June 17 was chosen in… The post Iceland Commemorates Founding of the Republic with June 17 Celebrations appeared first on Iceland Review.

Iceland’s parliament, Alþingi, has approved a fiscal plan covering the period from 2027 to 2031, setting out the government’s economic priorities for the coming years. According to a press release from the Government of Iceland, the plan aims to eliminate the Treasury deficit by 2027, reduce the public debt ratio and support economic stability. It… The post Alþingi Approves Fiscal Plan Aimed at Balancing Budget by 2027 appeared first on Iceland Review.

All history-buffs know that the Romans got around. At the height of the Empire, they controlled territory stretching from northern England to North Africa and from the Atlantic coast of Europe to the edges of Mesopotamia. Bringing with them progress and turmoil in equal measure, they built roads, ports, fortifications, and cities on a scale… The post Did the Romans Ever Reach Iceland? appeared first on Iceland Review.

The astronomical phenomenon of the Summer Solstice marks the longest day of the year and the official start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. It is fitting that the International Day of Yoga also falls on this date, 21 June, symbolising a shared sense of renewal for both body and mind. Summer is arguably the… The post What’s On This Week | Summer Solstice, Yoga and Other Events appeared first on Iceland Review.

On 17 June 1944, the Republic of Iceland was born. This marked the end of Danish rule after nearly seven centuries. The date to celebrate the National Day (Þjóðhátíðardagurinn) was chosen for two reasons. Earlier that year, Icelanders voted overwhelmingly in a referendum to abolish the monarchy and establish a republic. Following the result, King… The post Iceland Review Playlist | Icelandic National Day appeared first on Iceland Review.

A heightened level of seismic activity has been recorded beneath the Bárðarbunga volcanic system in Vatnajökull National Park prompting officials to increase the aviation alert level. The Icelandic Meteorological Office raised the flight colour code to yellow shortly before 1am. The decision followed a significant earthquake swarm in the northern part of the caldera, RÚV reports. What’s… The post Hundreds of Tremors Shake Bárðarbunga Volcano System appeared first on Iceland Review.

Iceland’s parliament, the Althingi, has approved a new transport plan covering the period 2026 to 2040, marking the first such strategy to be implemented since 2020. Among a few suggestions concerning the Ring Road and the transportation system overall, the plan also aims to remove some single-lane bridges on Route 1. What’s the Story? Iceland’s… The post New Transport Plan Proposes Reduction in Single-Lane Bridges on the Ring Road appeared first on Iceland Review.

Iceland’s Marine and Freshwater Research Institute has recommended reductions in catch limits for several major fish stocks in the next fishing year, while proposing a substantial increase in capelin catches. As reported by RÚV, the institute presented its annual fisheries advice today, outlining lower recommended catches for cod, haddock, saithe and summer-spawning herring. What’s the… The post Fisheries Institute Recommends Lower Quotas for Key Stocks appeared first on Iceland Review.

Reykjavík City Council has decided not to accept a proposed donation of dinosaur bones following a review that found significant costs and uncertainties would be involved in displaying the collection. As reported by RÚV, the offer came from Marcus Eriksen, a semi-Icelandic archaeologist whose mother was Icelandic and who has family ties to Iceland. What’s… The post Reykjavík Rejects Proposed Dinosaur Bone Gift appeared first on Iceland Review.

Iceland faces growing economic uncertainty, with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) warning that inflation could remain elevated while economic growth slows over the coming years. As reported by RÚV, the assessment was presented during the IMF’s annual review of the Icelandic economy, unveiled at a meeting in the Culture House in Reykjavík. What’s the Story?… The post Inflation Risks Remain Despite Economic Recovery Forecast appeared first on Iceland Review.

A dispute over drone permits in Iceland’s protected areas has been referred to the Ministry of the Environment, Energy and Climate after a photographer and workshop operator appealed a decision by Náttúruverndarstofnun, Iceland’s Nature Conservation Agency. According to a recent press release, the agency has introduced a practice that restricts drone permits for recreational and… The post Drone Restrictions in Protected Areas Face Challenge appeared first on Iceland Review.

Nearly 20% of Iceland’s population were immigrants at the beginning of 2025, according to new figures published by Statistics Iceland. Data released by the organisation shows that 77,226 immigrants were living in Iceland on January 1, accounting for 19.6% of the population. What’s the Story? 77,226 immigrants living in Iceland on 1 January 2025; 19.6%… The post Immigrants Account for Nearly 20% of Iceland’s Population appeared first on Iceland Review.

A rare collection of historical maps of Iceland held in Akureyri has grown once again after German collector Karl-Werner Schulte donated the final items from his personal collection on his 80th birthday. As reported by RÚV, Schulte spent the day in Akureyri, where he formally handed over the last maps to Akureyri Museum. What’s the… The post Historic Icelandic Maps Added to Landmark Akureyri Collection appeared first on Iceland Review.

Icelandic technology advocate and former MP Halldóra Mogensen has been appointed to a scientific panel advising the European Union on the implementation of its landmark artificial intelligence legislation. As reported by RÚV, the panel was established by the European Commission and consists of 60 independent experts serving two-year terms. Its role is to support the… The post Icelandic Expert Joins EU AI Advisory Panel appeared first on Iceland Review.

North Iceland is seeing a tourism boost after record numbers of travellers passed through Akureyri Airport last year. As reported by RÚV, more than 107,000 passengers used the airport in 2025, marking the highest annual total on record. The number represents a significant increase from the 92,000 recorded in 2023.  What’s the Story? Akureyri Airport… The post Akureyri Airport Sees Surge in International Travellers appeared first on Iceland Review.

The Icelandic government has announced plans to enhance mobile network coverage and performance at Látrabjarg ahead of the total solar eclipse due to take place on 12 August. The work is aimed at improving public safety and reducing the risk of major disruptions to mobile services, RÚV reports citing the Ministry of Infrastructure. What’s the… The post Iceland to Boost Mobile Coverage at Látrabjarg Ahead of Eclipse appeared first on Iceland Review.

A nuclear-powered United States Navy submarine is scheduled to make a service visit to Iceland today, with the Icelandic Coast Guard providing operational support during the visit. As reported by Vísir, the patrol vessel Þór will accompany the USS Oregon to Reykjanes, where crew exchanges and other servicing activities will be carried out. What’s the… The post USS Oregon Arrives in Iceland for Service Visit appeared first on Iceland Review.

Residents and visitors in Reykjavík will have the opportunity to celebrate Iceland’s maritime heritage this weekend as Fishermen’s Day (Sjómannadagurinn) festivities take place across the city on Sunday, June 7. The day’s programme begins with a parade departing from Harpa at 12:30pm and travelling to the festival area at Grandagarður, where a range of activities… The post Reykjavík to Celebrate Fishermen’s Day This Weekend appeared first on Iceland Review.

The Icelandic Road Administration is reducing the number of trips on five rural bus routes this summer and autumn. As reported by RÚV, the changes aim to align service costs with budget constraints while considering route usage and passenger numbers. What’s the Story? Changes made by the Road Administration on five rural bus routes Route… The post Reduction in Rural Bus Trips as Road Administration Adjusts Services appeared first on Iceland Review.

Fourteen individuals were awarded the Icelandic Order of the Falcon today during a ceremony at Bessastaðir hosted by President Halla Tómasdóttir. The Order of the Falcon is awarded to Icelandic citizens twice each year, on 1 January and 17 June, in recognition of contributions to Icelandic society across a range of fields. What’s the Story?… The post President Awards 14 People the Order of the Falcon appeared first on Iceland Review.

Iceland’s parliament, the Alþingi, has approved legislation reducing the maximum period for receiving unemployment benefits from 30 months to 24 months. As reported by RÚV, the change was passed as part of a bill approved by parliament yesterday. What’s the Story? Maximum unemployment benefit period reduced from 30 months to 24 months Initial proposal of… The post Unemployment Benefit Period Reduced to 24 Months appeared first on Iceland Review.

Laugarás Lagoon has received 88,000 visitors since opening its doors in October 2025, according to the company, with Icelanders accounting for the majority of guests during its first months of operation. As reported by mbl.is, CEO Bryndís Björnsdóttir said the team had hoped the destination would attract attention but faced uncertainty about opening ahead of… The post Laugarás Lagoon Welcomes 88,000 Visitors Since Opening appeared first on Iceland Review.

The newest rescue vessel in the fleet of the Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue, Landsbjörg, has officially arrived at its home port in Vopnafjörður following a multi-day voyage around the country. As reported by RÚV, the vessel, Sveinbjörn Sveinsson, is the seventh rescue ship delivered as part of Landsbjörg’s ongoing fleet renewal programme. What’s… The post New Rescue Vessel Arrives in Vopnafjörður appeared first on Iceland Review.

It might be a little rainy today, but residents and visitors in Reykjavík were treated to unusually bright and settled weather over the weekend, with sunshine drawing crowds outdoors across the capital region. It was clear skies over popular locations including the harbour, downtown Reykjavík and the city’s parks, as people took advantage of the… The post In Photos | Reykjavík Enjoys a Sunny Summer Weekend appeared first on Iceland Review.

An Icelandic endurance swimmer is preparing to take on a potentially historic 50-kilometre swim down the Lagarfljót River in East Iceland. As reported by mbl.is, the initiative is to raise awareness and support for Pieta , a suicide and self-harm prevention organisation. What’s the Story? Icelandic swimmer Sigurgeir Svanbergsson planning a 50km swim down the… The post Icelandic Swimmer Attempts Historic 50km Charity Swim appeared first on Iceland Review.

A new opinion poll suggests a majority of Icelandic voters intend to support reopening European Union accession talks in a referendum due in August. As reported by RÚV, the survey, carried out by Maskína for DV, indicates that 53.1% will vote “yes” against 46.9% who are going to say “no”. What’s the Story? Iceland referendum… The post Iceland Poll Shows Narrow Lead for EU Talks in August Referendum appeared first on Iceland Review.

Figures from the Icelandic Automobile Association (FÍB) show a sharp rise in the number of locations charging motorists, RÚV reports. Industry and Trade Minister Hanna Katrín Friðriksson has expressed concern about the trend and called for stronger consumer protections. What’s the Story? Paid parking introduced at 54 tourist attractions in Iceland by May 2026, up… The post Motorists in Iceland Face Growing Parking Costs appeared first on Iceland Review.

The maternity ward at Akureyri Hospital has recorded a significant increase in births this year, with 56 more children born during the first part of 2026 than during the same period last year. As reported by RÚV, a total of 210 babies had been born at the ward by the time the news agency visited… The post Akureyri Maternity Ward Records Sharp Rise in Births appeared first on Iceland Review.

Editor’s Column #11 Notes From a Cold Country Not so long ago, I had deluded myself to such a point as to suggest that I preferred winter in Iceland to summer. I can only apologise. Clearly, I had a vitamin D deficiency when I wrote that and was delirious with cold. Over recent days, the… The post Welcome to Reykjavík Land appeared first on Iceland Review.

The number of foreign passengers departing Iceland through Keflavík International Airport remained broadly unchanged in May compared with the same month last year, according to new figures published by the Icelandic Tourist Board. As reported by Vísir, around 163,000 foreign passengers departed the country during the month, while departures by Icelandic travellers totalled approximately 59,000,… The post Foreign Visitor Numbers Stable at Keflavík in May appeared first on Iceland Review.

Iceland has retained its position as the world’s most peaceful country, marking the nineteenth consecutive year at the top of the Global Peace Index compiled by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP). As reported by RÚV, the annual index assesses 163 countries and territories, covering 99.7% of the world’s population. Rankings are based on… The post Iceland Ranked World’s Most Peaceful Country (…Again) appeared first on Iceland Review.

Staff at swimming pools in Akureyri are regularly having to intervene with guests who enter the water wearing underwear beneath their swimming trunks, according to local pool management. As reported by RÚV, the issue has become increasingly common in recent years and is now a routine challenge for employees, says Gísli Rúnar Gylfason, director of… The post Akureyri Pool Staff Tackle Growing Underwear Swimwear Trend appeared first on Iceland Review.

Police are urging parents to ensure children follow Iceland’s electric scooter regulations after new figures showed several underage riders were injured in traffic accidents last year. As reported by RÚV, data from the Icelandic Transport Authority suggests more than 700 electric scooter accidents have been recorded since their popularity increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. What’s… The post Police Warn Over Electric Scooter Injuries Among Children appeared first on Iceland Review.

It’s the final week of Listahátíð or Reykjavík Arts Festival, but that doesn’t mean the festivities and fun times have come to a close. No way. June is a great time to start something new, whether it’s kayaking, photography or singing Icelandic folk songs. Check our events calendar for new opportunities and exciting things ahead.… The post What to Do This Week | Kayaking, Art Workshop and Other Events appeared first on Iceland Review.

The national weather service has forecast a mixed day, with the brightest spells in western parts of the country and wetter conditions further east. According to the Icelandic Met Office, drizzle and periods of rain are expected to affect eastern areas throughout the day. Meanwhile, western regions are likely to see isolated showers, particularly during… The post Rain and Drizzle Forecast Across Eastern Areas appeared first on Iceland Review.

The University of Iceland and Hólar University are set to merge from 1 July after legislation paving the way for the move was approved by Iceland’s parliament. As reported by RÚV, the merger will see the two institutions operate within the newly established University of Iceland University Complex. The structure was created under a new… The post University of Iceland and Hólar University to Merge appeared first on Iceland Review.

Reports of violence and behavioural difficulties among children are increasing in Iceland, with concerns now extending to pupils in primary schools and even kindergartens. As reported by RÚV, experts, educators and community police officers are calling for stronger long-term measures to address the trend. According to Iceland’s national broadcaster, community police regularly visit schools and… The post Calls Grow for National Response to Youth Violence appeared first on Iceland Review.

More than half of Icelanders say they are satisfied with the performance of Iceland’s president, according to new polling released by Maskína. The survey found that 54% of respondents are satisfied with the work of Halla Tómasdóttir, an increase of nine percentage points from the previous quarterly survey, when satisfaction stood at 45%. What’s the… The post Survey Shows Growing Approval of Iceland’s President appeared first on Iceland Review.

A new price monitoring report by ASÍ reveals significant price disparities for the same products across nine Icelandic supermarkets. As reported by RÚV, the study found that 20–70% price differences exist for the same items in stores such as Prís, Nettó, and Krambúðin. What’s the Story? Monitoring by ASÍ across nine supermarkets, 8–14 June Price… The post Price Differences of Around 2,000 ISK on Lamb Meat in Icelandic Supermarkets appeared first on Iceland Review.

The Icelandic parliament, Alþingi, has approved changes to the country’s framework plan for the protection and utilisation of land, adding three new energy projects to the utilisation category and two others to a waiting category. The decision allows the proposed Tröllá and Skúfnavatnavirkjun hydropower projects in the Westfjords, along with the Bolaalda geothermal project in… The post Alþingi Approves New Renewable Energy Projects appeared first on Iceland Review.

Residents of Grímsey island say a planned reduction in winter ferry services could make it more difficult for the island community to maintain reliable transport links and plan for future growth. As reported by RÚV, the Sæfari ferry route between Grímsey and Dalvík, a journey of around three hours, will operate three times a week… The post Grímsey Residents Voice Concerns Over Reduced Ferry Service appeared first on Iceland Review.

A new national arena is set to be built in Reykjavík after a contractor was selected to design and construct the long-awaited facility in Laugardalur. According to a press release from the Icelandic government, Þjóðarhöll ehf., acting on behalf of the Icelandic state and the City of Reykjavík, has chosen Iceland Prime Contractor hf. to… The post New National Sports Arena Planned for Reykjavík appeared first on Iceland Review.

Iceland has been ranked the world’s most welcoming country for newcomers in a new study examining destinations for expatriates in 2026. The research, published by international health insurance provider William Russell, assessed countries using factors including migrant population levels, employment rates among foreign-born residents, visa openness and broader indicators linked to expatriate experiences. What’s the… The post Study Names Iceland Most Welcoming Country for Newcomers appeared fi...

A study based on discussions across Reddit’s largest travel communities has ranked Iceland among the world’s five most transformative travel destinations, with Japan taking the top spot. As stipulated in a recent press release, researchers analysed more than 1,500 comments in travel-focused forums, recording 447 instances where users described a destination as “life-changing” or transformative.… The post Iceland Among Top Five ‘Life-Changing’ Travel Locales, Reddit Study Finds appeared first ...

Temperatures are expected to climb as high as 19C today, with the warmest conditions forecast across southern and western areas. According to the Icelandic Met Office, winds will remain light and variable, helping to bring some bright and clear spells. However, afternoon showers are likely to develop in parts of the south and west, continuing… The post Temperatures Set to Reach 19C in South and West Iceland appeared first on Iceland Review.

The geothermal baths at Lake Mývatn in north-east Iceland are due to reopen on 30 June following extensive redevelopment work. The popular attraction, a key draw for visitors to the Mývatn region, has been undergoing construction and upgrades for several years. As reported by RÚV, the latest phase began in early 2026. What’s the Story?… The post Lake Mývatn Geothermal Baths Set to Reopen After Overhaul appeared first on Iceland Review.

Iceland has still not met all the requirements needed to adopt the euro. However, the country comes close to fulfilling most of the European Union’s economic criteria, RÚV reports. Iceland’s EU membership could bring longer-term price stability and lower interest rates that would adversely affect the housing market.  What’s the Story? Iceland has not met… The post EU Membership Could Push Up Housing Prices in Iceland appeared first on Iceland Review.

The Icelandic Ministry of Education and Children has published a draft regulation that would introduce stricter rules on the use of phones and smart devices in primary schools. As reported by RÚV, the proposal is now available to view through the government’s public consultation portal. What’s the Story? Draft regulation by the Ministry of Education,… The post Draft Regulation Would Restrict Phone Use in Icelandic Primary Schools appeared first on Iceland Review.

People in southern and western Iceland can expect warmer conditions in the coming days, with temperatures reaching as high as 20°C. As reported by RÚV, the milder weather is forecast to be concentrated in the south and west of the country, where sunshine and lighter winds are expected to contribute to higher temperatures. What’s the… The post Temperatures Set to Reach 20°C in South and West Iceland appeared first on Iceland Review.

Iceland has some of the highest food prices in Europe, according to a new discussion paper published by the Icelandic Competition Authority as part of its ongoing review of the country’s grocery market. As reported by RÚV, the analysis shows that consumers in Iceland pay an average of 55% more for food than the average… The post Food Prices in Iceland Among Highest in Europe, Competition Authority Finds appeared first on Iceland Review.

A new poll suggests opposition to Iceland joining the European Union has increased, with more respondents now against membership than in favour. As reported by RÚV, the survey was conducted by Gallup for the Business Journal. It found that 54% of those expressing a view opposed Iceland becoming a member of the European Union, while… The post Poll Finds More Icelanders Oppose EU Membership Than Support It appeared first on Iceland Review.

Icelandic golfer Gunnlaugur Árni Sveinsson has secured a place at this year’s U.S. Open, becoming the first Icelandic man to qualify for one of golf’s four major championships. As reported by Vísir, Sveinsson earned his spot through final qualifying in Ohio on Monday, where players competed over 36 holes for a limited number of places… The post Gunnlaugur Árni Becomes First Icelandic Man to Qualify for U.S. Open appeared first on Iceland Review.

Icelandic authorities and industry organisations have signed a new agreement aimed at safeguarding the use of the country’s name in international markets and preventing its misuse in trademarks and branding. As reported by RÚV, the initiative brings together the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Culture, Innovation and Higher Education, the Confederation of Icelandic… The post Iceland Strengthens Protection of Country Name Abroad appeared first on Iceland Review.

Iceland is celebrating Seafarers’ Day today with a wide range of events held across the country. Observed since 1938, the annual occasion honours Icelandic seafarers, commemorates those who have lost their lives on the ocean, and highlights the continuing importance of the fishing and maritime industries to the nation. What’s the Story? Seafarers’ Day is being… The post Iceland Celebrates Seafarers’ Day with Events Across the Country appeared first on Iceland Review.

When asked to name Icelandic musicians, 99% of foreigners familiar with Iceland would mention Björk, Sigur Rós, and GusGus. Those with a deeper knowledge of the country’s music scene might also add The Sugarcubes and Múm to the list. These artists chose international careers over cultivating a primarily domestic following. While Björk is, of course,… The post Iceland Review Playlist | Bubbi Morthens appeared first on Iceland Review.

Icelandair has confirmed it is temporarily using an aircraft and crew from a Lithuanian airline as part of its regular operational arrangements. As reported by RÚV, the aircraft, owned by Heston Airlines, has been leased since 3 June and will remain in service until 8 June. According to Icelandair, the arrangement was made after a… The post Icelandair Brings in Lithuanian Aircraft to Cover Fleet Delay appeared first on Iceland Review.

Icelanders are expected to spend around ISK 7.5 billion on online betting during this summer’s FIFA World Cup, according to a report commissioned by the University of Iceland Lottery and prepared by the US-based Gaming Compliance International. As reported by RÚV, the report estimates the value of Iceland’s betting market at ISK 51.8 billion in… The post Icelanders Expected to Wager ISK 7.5 Billion During World Cup appeared first on Iceland Review.

Drivers in Iceland will no longer be required to provide a medical certificate automatically when renewing their driving licence from the age of 65, following regulatory changes introduced by Infrastructure Minister Eyjólfur Ármannsson. As reported by RÚV, the amended rules, which came into force on 29 May, raise the age threshold for mandatory medical certification… The post Driving Licence Rules Eased for Older Motorists in Iceland appeared first on Iceland Review.