Twelve essential apps for a vacation in Iceland

Planning a trip to Iceland? Excellent choice! But before you zip up your suitcase and set your sights on volcanoes, waterfalls, and northern lights, do yourself a favor — download these essential apps. From weather warnings to geothermal pools and parking meters, these digital tools can help you travel smarter, safer, and even save money along the way. I’ve curated the top-rated, essential apps for a vacation in Iceland — all thoroughly tested and highly recommended by locals and seasoned visitors alike.

App Store (iOS) | Google Play (Android)

Free and essential app for your Iceland vacation. If you only download one app for your Iceland trip, make it this one. Veður (which means “weather”) is the official app from the Icelandic Meteorological Office. It provides hyper-local forecasts, real-time storm and wind warnings, and maps that show weather patterns nationwide.

Why it’s essential: Icelandic weather is famously unpredictable. This app helps you plan your days and avoid dangerous conditions.

App Store (iOS) | Google Play(Android)

Icelandic Search and Rescue developed this free app. It gives real-time alerts on road closures, weather issues, and general safety warnings. You can also register your travel plans so authorities know where you are in case of an emergency.

 Perfect for: Road trippers, solo travelers, and anyone heading off the beaten path.

App Store (iOS) | Google Play (Android)


This is Iceland’s official emergency app. With a few taps, you can contact 112 services and send your GPS location — even if your mobile signal is weak. It’s especially helpful in remote areas. This app is free.

Think of it as: Your emergency beacon. I  hope you never need it, but you’ll be glad you have it.

App Store (iOS) | Google Play (Android)

Free, with premium upgrade
If the Northern Lights are on your bucket list, this app is your best friend. Get detailed forecasts, KP index ratings, and cloud cover maps — all updated hourly.

Pro tip: Combine this with the Veður app to find clear skies and maximize your aurora-chasing luck.

App Store (iOS) | Google Play (Android)

Free
Yes, it’s basic — but Google Maps is a road trip essential. Save offline maps before you leave Reykjavik, and you’ll never get lost on Iceland’s remote ring roads. It also helps you locate gas stations, cafes, campsites, and local landmarks.

🗺️ Why offline mode? Cell service disappears quickly in the countryside. GPS still works even when signal doesn’t.

App Store (iOS) | Google Play (Android)
💸 Free
Planning to use Reykjavik’s buses or take public transport around the country? This app helps you plan routes, check live schedules, and buy tickets on the go.

App Store (iOS) | Google Play (Android)
💸

No coins? No problem. Parka lets you pay for parking in Reykjavik and popular travel destinations, directly from your phone. You can even extend your time without walking back to your car.

Also handy for: Paying for showers, campsites, or restroom access at select rural locations.

App Store (iOS) | Google Play (Android)

This isn’t a traditional app, but a fantastic free and mobile-friendly website. It maps out every known hot spring and geothermal pool in Iceland, including many hidden gems. Use the GPS map or filter by amenities and temperature.

 Nothing beats a quiet soak in nature after a day of hiking or driving.

App Store (iOS) | Google Play (Android)

Most Icelanders speak English, but it’s still helpful to have a translation tool in your pocket. You can download the Icelandic language pack and use the camera mode to translate signs and menus instantly.

 Pro tip: Locals love it when visitors try out a few Icelandic words — this app makes it easy.

App Store (iOS)

Free, with in-app purchases
 This Iceland-developed hiking app offers GPS-guided routes, maps, and cultural notes for hundreds of marked hiking trails around the country. Download your route in advance and track your progress — even without a signal.

Excellent alternative to AllTrails, with more focus on Iceland’s unique hiking routes. I once interviewed the app’s creator, Einar Skúlason.

Dineout App – Find & Book Restaurants in Iceland

App Store (iOS) | Google Play (Android)

Looking for great places to eat in Iceland? The Dineout app makes it easy to discover top-rated restaurants, check menus, book tables, and find last-minute dining deals across Reykjavik and beyond. Whether you’re craving Icelandic lamb or fresh seafood, this app helps you dine like a local — effortlessly.

Icelandic Coupons – Save Money on Tours, Food & Attractions

App Store (iOS) | Google Play (Android)

Want to save on your Iceland trip? Browse our latest Icelandic coupons for discounts on tours, restaurants, camper rentals, and local attractions. Updated regularly with verified deals, these promo codes help you experience more of Iceland for less. A must-have for budget-conscious travelers.

 

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Okay, not an app — but worth it. My newsletter delivers the latest Iceland travel tips, exclusive tour discounts, hidden spots, and budget-friendly ideas straight to your inbox.

Think of it as your friendly Icelandic insider, helping you plan the perfect adventure.

Iceland is stunning, wild, and full of surprises. With these apps on your phone, you’ll be better prepared to explore confidently, safely, and affordably. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or chasing the aurora, your Iceland adventure just got an upgrade.