SEK to ISK Currency Exchange

Practical tips for planning your budget

Tipping is not obligatory in Iceland, but it’s appreciated if you do choose to tip. If so, it’s a good idea to carry a small amount of Icelandic Króna in cash.

On average, your stay in Iceland will cost between 13,000 and 21,600 ISK per person per day.

With a budget of 1,000 to 2,500 ISK, you can get a meal at a fast food restaurant. A café bistro meal typically costs 2,500 to 3,500 ISK, while a traditional meal at a restaurant may range from 5,000 to 9,000 ISK.

When do you need cash in Iceland?

Iceland is a country where card and contactless payments are very well accepted. However, it is still useful to have ISK in cash during your stay to avoid any stressful situations.

If you plan to visit one of the country’s many craft markets, make sure to have Icelandic króna in cash, as some stalls will only accept cash payments.

Additionally, some areas outside the main tourist routes or far from major cities may require cash payments. Network coverage can also be quite poor, making card terminals unusable. Having ISK in cash is therefore an excellent way to ensure you can pay for purchases in any situation.

As a general rule, we recommend exchanging SEK to ISK before departure to benefit from the best exchange rates, and using cash to maintain control over your budget.