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.

Scientists funded by NASA will use Iceland’s total solar eclipse in August 2026 to investigate how the atmosphere responds when daylight briefly disappears. According to a recent press release, research teams from the University of Idaho and the University of Kentucky plan to launch a series of weather balloons from a site near Reykjavík before,… The post NASA-Funded Eclipse Balloon Project to Study Iceland’s Atmosphere appeared first on Iceland Review.

A new documentary exploring Iceland’s landscapes, history and relationship with nature will receive its Icelandic premiere at Bíó Paradís on 10 June. Directed by Hinrik Ólafsson, Above Iceland uses aerial cinematography to examine the country’s diverse terrain and the communities that live within it. The premiere screening will take place at Bíó Paradís in Reykjavík… The post Above Iceland Documentary Set for Reykjavík Premiere appeared first on Iceland Review.

A newly published report commissioned by Iceland’s Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs has highlighted the continued importance of tourism to the national economy. It comes as the country prepares for an August referendum on whether to resume negotiations with the European Union. The report, Currency Matters, examines the economic implications of retaining the Icelandic… The post New Currency Report Highlights Tourism’s Role in Euro Debate appeared first on Iceland Review.

It’s Listahátíð season, which means many of the city’s major cultural venues are hosting events as part of the Reykjavík Arts Festival. While it is certainly worth exploring, this big festivity is only part of the picture. There is always nature to enjoy, a stand-up comedy show about our Faroese neighbours, and plenty more besides.… The post What to Do This Week | Reykjavík Arts Festival and Other Events appeared first on Iceland Review.

Icelandair has cancelled six flights serving London, Glasgow and Rome after being unable to secure enough crew, as an ongoing pay dispute with pilots continues to affect operations. As reported by RÚV, the cancellations left many passengers stranded, with the affected services reportedly fully booked. What’s the Story? Six Icelandair flights to and from London,… The post Icelandair Cancels Six Flights as Pilot Pay Dispute Continues appeared first on Iceland Review.

Iceland’s natural environment remains vulnerable to invasive alien species because of weak regulations and insufficient oversight, RÚV reports. Sæunn Júlía Sigurjónsdóttir, from the Icelandic Museum of Natural History, has warned that stronger measures are needed to prevent non-native species from damaging ecosystems and culturally significant landscapes. What’s the Story? Sæunn Júlía Sigurjónsdóttir of the Icelandic… The post Iceland’s Wildlife Faces Threat From Invasive Species appeared fir...

Iceland’s National Electoral Commission says preparations are already under way for a referendum on whether the country should continue negotiations on membership of the European Union. The vote is scheduled to take place on 29 August following the passing of a parliamentary resolution by the Althingi yesterday. What’s the Story? Referendum on continued EU accession… The post Iceland Prepares for EU Referendum Vote 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.

The Icelandic government has appointed a working group to examine how citizenship is granted and whether existing laws and procedures should be revised amid a sharp rise in applications. According to the Ministry of Justice, the three-member panel will review current requirements for obtaining Icelandic citizenship, assess administrative processes, and compare Iceland’s system with those… The post Justice Minister Launches Review of Icelandic Citizenship Rules appeared first on Iceland Review.

Students, parents and educators can now access information on recognised upper secondary school programmes through a new national online portal launched by Iceland’s Ministry of Education and Children. According to a government press release, the website brings together recognised upper secondary study programmes from across the country in a single location for the first time.… The post New Portal Brings Upper Secondary Study Programmes Together appeared first on Iceland Review.

Iceland has made good progress towards international biodiversity targets on land but remains far from meeting equivalent goals for marine protection, according to a biologist at the Icelandic Museum of Natural History. RÚV reports that, in 2022, the United Nations adopted global biodiversity targets that call for 30% of land and sea areas to be… The post Experts Call for Expanded Marine Protection Ahead of UN Deadline appeared first on Iceland Review.

The population of Arctic foxes in Iceland has fallen significantly over the past decade, according to a new conservation assessment by the Icelandic Institute of Natural History. As reported by RÚV, researchers estimate that the fox population declined from around 7,800 animals in 2011 to approximately 4,700 in spring 2024, representing a decrease of roughly… The post Arctic Fox Population Falls but Species Not Endangered appeared first on Iceland Review.

Drivers travelling north on Vesturlandsvegur will face overnight diversions over the next two evenings as road improvement work gets under way. The section of Route 1 stretches from Eastern Reykjavík to Borgarnes. As reported by mbl.is, the project involves milling and resurfacing two parts of the route, with work scheduled to take place overnight to… The post Overnight Roadworks to Close Section of Route 1 appeared first on Iceland Review.

The annual Reykjavík Arts Festival, or Listahátíð, begins today, with most music events taking place over the coming fortnight. Today’s opening ceremony at Reykjavík Art Museum’s Hafnarhús offers a first glimpse of the festival’s diverse programme of visual arts, music and performance. We have compiled some of the highlights of Listahátíð 2026, alongside a playlist… The post Iceland Review Playlist | Reykjavík Arts Festival appeared first on Iceland Review.

A new documentary focusing on Iceland’s aquatic ecosystems will premiere at Nordic House in Reykjavík on June 11 at 19:00, in collaboration with the organisation Seeds. The film, Julien Looks Under Things: Under Iceland’s Waters, has been created by French-Canadian filmmaker Julien Nayet-Pelletier, known for the online nature series Julien Looks Under Things. What’s the… The post Nature Documentary on Icelandic Waters to Premiere at Nordic House 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.

Iceland’s financial system remains well placed to withstand economic shocks, according to the Financial Stability Committee, although lenders have been urged to monitor growing risks within the construction industry. As reported by RÚV, the committee said household and business debt levels remain generally low, while loan defaults continue to be limited. However, it noted that… The post Iceland’s Financial System Rated Resilient Amid Economic Uncertainty appeared first on Iceland Review.

Tourism in Northern Iceland continues to grow, driven by increased international air connections, rising visitor numbers and significant investment across the region. This is according to speakers at an industry conference held this week. According to a press release, the conference was organised by North Iceland marketing agency and focused on the current state and… The post North Iceland Tourism Sees Growth as Investment Rises appeared first on Iceland Review.

A new Icelandic electronic music release has arrived from Reykjavík Record Shop, with musician AAIIEENN unveiling his third studio album, Phonetically Ayen, on vinyl and digital platforms. AAIIEENN is the musical project of Hallmar Gauti Halldórsson. What’s the Story? Phonetically Ayen released by AAIIEENN through Reykjavík Record Shop Double album on blue and white vinyl,… The post Reykjavík Record Shop Releases New AAIIEENN Double Album appeared first on Iceland Review.

Around 120 earthquakes were recorded in the Hellisheiði area over the course of a day-long seismic swarm, according to the Icelandic Meteorological Office. As reported by RÚV, the swarm began shortly before 07:00 yesterday, with the first tremors detected approximately three kilometres west of Húsmúli near Hellisheiði. What’s the Story? Around 120 earthquakes detected near… The post Seismic Swarm Triggers Dozens of Tremors Near Hellisheiði appeared first on Iceland Review.

Nearly 1,000 competitors from 38 countries are expected to take part in this year’s Hengill Ultra, one of Iceland’s biggest trail running events. The race, which takes place near the town of Hveragerði, will be staged for the 15th time on Saturday, 6 June, RÚV reports. What’s the Story? Hengill Ultra trail race to be… The post Runners From Around the World Gather for Hengill Ultra Challenge appeared first on Iceland Review.

A proposal to tighten Reykjavík’s flag-flying rules has been submitted to the city administration by members of the Independence Party, the the Liberal Reform Party and the Progressive Party. As reported by mbl.is, the newly elected city council will discuss the idea to restrict flags at City Hall to those of Iceland and Reykjavík. The… The post New Flag Rules Proposed for Reykjavík City Hall appeared first on Iceland Review.

Iceland is set for a spell of unsettled weather as pressure systems to the south and north of the country cause strong easterly and north-easterly winds. According to the Icelandic Met Office, winds are expected to range between 5 and 13 metres per second across much of the country today, accompanied by periods of rain… The post Strong Coastal Winds and Rain Forecast Across Iceland appeared first on Iceland Review.

Organisers are preparing for up to 20,000 guests at Þingvellir National Park this summer as Icelandic rock band Kaleo describe the upcoming Bergmál concert as the largest and most ambitious event of their career. The performance, scheduled for June 20 during the summer solstice, follows previous appearances at internationally recognised venues including the Colosseum in… The post Kaleo Calls Þingvellir Concert Its Biggest Ever Project appeared first on Iceland Review.