People of Iceland - 12 Fun Facts About Icelanders

Iceland's dramatic landscapes and unique culture have captivated travellers for decades, but the true magic of this Nordic island lies in its people. Whether you're planning a self-drive adventure through the Ring Road or simply curious about Icelandic culture, understanding the locals will enrich your experience immeasurably. From their literary prowess to their quirky traditions, Icelanders possess characteristics that are as fascinating as the land they inhabit.

If you're considering a car rental in Reykjavik or planning to collect your vehicle at Keflavik International Airport, you'll soon discover that interacting with locals forms an integral part of any Icelandic journey. Here are twelve remarkable facts about Icelanders that will help you appreciate the cultural depth of this extraordinary nation.

See also: Life in Iceland: Essential Guide to Living in the Land of Fire and Ice.

1. Iceland Has More Writers Per Capita Than Anywhere Else

Icelanders are voracious readers and prolific writers. With a population of just 370,000, Iceland publishes more books per capita than any other country in the world. One in ten Icelanders will publish a book during their lifetime, making literature an intrinsic part of the national identity.

This literary tradition stems from the medieval sagas, epic tales that chronicled the lives of early settlers. Today, crime fiction dominates the contemporary scene, with authors like Arnaldur Indriðason gaining international recognition. When you rent a car at Keflavik International Airport and explore Iceland's towns, you'll notice bookshops are as common as coffee shops.

2. They Don't Use Surnames in the Traditional Sense

Icelanders follow a patronymic naming system, meaning children take their father's (or sometimes mother's) first name and add "son" or "daughter" to it. For example, if Björn has a son named Magnus, the child would be Magnus Björnsson. A daughter named Anna would be Anna Björnsdóttir.

This system means the Icelandic phone directory was organised alphabetically by first names, not surnames. It also creates a uniquely egalitarian society where everyone, including the Prime Minister, is addressed by their first name.

3. Most Icelanders Believe in Elves and Hidden People

Surveys consistently show that over half of Icelanders believe in the existence of elves, trolls, and hidden people (huldufólk). This isn't mere superstition but a cultural cornerstone that influences modern life. Construction projects sometimes reroute around elf habitats, and many Icelanders can share stories about supernatural encounters.

When planning self-drive tours in Iceland, you'll notice certain rock formations and lava fields are treated with particular reverence. This connection to folklore reflects a deeper relationship with the natural world that has sustained Icelandic culture for centuries.

4. They're Incredibly Peaceful People

Iceland consistently ranks among the world's most peaceful nations. The country has no military and crime rates are extraordinarily low. Babies sleep outside in prams whilst parents shop or dine, and houses often remain unlocked.

This peaceful nature extends to their approach to justice and social issues. Iceland was the first country to elect a female president (Vigdís Finnbogadóttir in 1980) and has consistently led progressive social movements. For visitors using car rental services in Iceland, this translates to safe, stress-free travel throughout the country.

5. Swimming Culture Is Central to Social Life

Icelanders are passionate about swimming, particularly in geothermal pools. With over 120 public pools across the country, swimming culture serves as the cornerstone of social interaction. These pools, heated by natural geothermal energy, remain open year-round, even during harsh winters.

The pools function as community centres where locals gather to socialise, discuss current events, and relax. Pool etiquette is taken seriously – thorough showering before entering is mandatory, and breaking this rule is considered deeply offensive.

6. They Have a Unique Relationship with Nature

Living on a geologically active island has shaped Icelanders' relationship with nature. They possess an intuitive understanding of weather patterns, volcanic activity, and natural phenomena that outsiders find remarkable.

This connection influences their daily decisions, from choosing routes for self-drive tours to planning outdoor activities. Icelanders respect nature's power whilst embracing its beauty, a balance that visitors can appreciate when exploring the country by car from locations like Reykjavik or Keflavik International Airport.

7. Everyone Is Related to Everyone Else

Iceland's small population and isolated location mean most Icelanders are related within a few generations. To prevent accidental romantic relationships between relatives, Icelanders developed a genealogy app that alerts users if they're related to potential partners.

This interconnectedness creates a uniquely cohesive society where social responsibility is paramount. Scandals spread quickly, but so does support during difficult times. For visitors, this means encountering consistently helpful, community-minded locals throughout their travels.

8. They're Champion Chess Players

Iceland has produced more chess grandmasters per capita than any other nation. The game gained popularity during the 1972 World Chess Championship between Bobby Fischer and Boris Spassky, held in Reykjavik. This event captured the national imagination and established chess as a serious pursuit.

Chess clubs operate throughout Iceland, and the game is taught in schools as part of the curriculum. Many cafes and community centres feature chess boards, reflecting the intellectual culture that permeates Icelandic society.

9. They Take Name Approval Very Seriously

Iceland maintains an official list of approved names, and parents must seek government approval for names not on the list. The Icelandic Naming Committee ensures names can be conjugated according to Icelandic grammar rules and don't cause embarrassment to the bearer.

This system protects the Icelandic language whilst maintaining cultural continuity. Names must reflect Icelandic traditions and phonetic patterns, creating a unique linguistic identity that has persevered despite globalisation pressures.

10. They Have a Thriving Music Scene

Despite its small population, Iceland has produced internationally acclaimed musicians across diverse genres. From Björk's experimental soundscapes to Sigur Rós's atmospheric rock, Icelandic artists consistently punch above their weight in the global music scene.

This musical creativity stems from cultural emphasis on artistic expression and state support for the arts. Music education is prioritised in schools, and venues throughout Reykjavik showcase emerging talent alongside established acts.

11. They're Environmental Pioneers

Iceland generates nearly 100% of its electricity from renewable sources, primarily geothermal and hydroelectric power. This environmental leadership influences individual behaviour, with most Icelanders demonstrating strong environmental consciousness in their daily lives.

The country's commitment to sustainability makes it an ideal destination for eco-conscious travellers. When you rent a car in Iceland, you'll discover that even transportation infrastructure incorporates environmental considerations, from efficient route planning to minimal landscape disruption.

12. They Maintain Strong Viking Heritage

Despite centuries of change, Icelanders maintain tangible connections to their Viking heritage. The Althing, established in 930 CE, is the world's oldest parliament and continues to influence modern governance structures.

Traditional crafts, storytelling traditions, and cultural practices reflect this heritage whilst adapting to contemporary life. For visitors exploring Iceland through self-drive tours, numerous museums and cultural sites provide insight into this remarkable historical continuity.

Planning Your Cultural Discovery

Understanding these cultural nuances enhances any Icelandic adventure. Whether you're collecting your car rental from Keflavik International Airport or exploring Reykjavik's cultural districts, appreciating local customs creates more meaningful interactions with this remarkable population.

The combination of ancient traditions and modern innovation makes Iceland a fascinating destination for cultural exploration. Through respectful engagement with local customs and genuine curiosity about Icelandic life, visitors can gain profound insights into one of the world's most unique societies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What language do Icelanders speak, and do they speak English?

Icelanders speak Icelandic, a North Germanic language closely related to Old Norse. Most Icelanders speak excellent English, particularly in tourist areas, making communication easy for visitors. However, learning basic Icelandic phrases demonstrates respect and often elicits warm responses from locals.

Is it appropriate to tip in Iceland?

Tipping is not customary in Iceland, as service charges are typically included in prices. However, small tips for exceptional service are appreciated but never expected. This reflects the egalitarian nature of Icelandic society.

How do Icelanders view tourists and self-drive visitors?

Icelanders generally welcome tourists warmly, provided visitors show respect for local customs and the environment. They appreciate when visitors take time to understand local culture rather than simply photographing landscapes. Responsible self-drive tourism is encouraged and supported.

What should visitors know about Icelandic social customs?

Icelanders value punctuality, honesty, and direct communication. They're generally reserved but friendly once engaged in conversation. Removing shoes when entering homes is customary, and discussing politics or personal topics is perfectly acceptable among acquaintances.

Are there any cultural taboos visitors should avoid?

Avoid comparing Iceland to other countries unfavourably, discussing whaling in judgmental terms without understanding local perspectives, or treating natural sites carelessly. Icelanders take environmental protection seriously and expect visitors to demonstrate similar respect.

How does Icelandic work culture affect visitor interactions?

Icelanders maintain excellent work-life balance and value efficiency over extended hours. Many businesses close early or have limited weekend hours, particularly outside Reykjavik. Planning ahead ensures access to services and demonstrates respect for local schedules.

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