28 Best Souvenirs from Iceland: Authentic Icelandic Gifts
What are the best souvenirs from Iceland? Where should I shop for Icelandic souvenirs?
Whenever I travel anywhere, Iceland included, I’m always on the hunt for local and authentic products to bring home! Of course, when I was traveling extensively across Iceland and was trying to limit how much I spent on souvenirs, cute key chains and t-shirts were great alternatives.
In this post, I’m going to outline 28 different Icelandic souvenirs you can bring home from your trip that you’ll actually be excited to bring home and show your friends.
I’ve also created helpful sections so you can easily jump around to what you may already be most interested in buying including consumable products, wearable products, items for your home, and cheap souvenirs that are perfect for those on a budget!
Food Souvenirs from Iceland
To start, let’s jump into the best food and drink items you can bring home from Iceland! From there, I’ll tell you all about the best clothing options, products to decorate your home with, and the most thoughtful purchases for those looking for cheap options.
1. Dried Fish (Harðfiskur)
If it’s not the #1 most authentic souvenir, then it’s certainly in the top 3! Dried Fish or ‘Harðfiskur’ as the locals call it, is like beef jerky, but with a unique, chewy texture and a slightly sweet, fishy flavor. The locals enjoy this snack often as an appetizer or just a tasty treat throughout the day.
For a true Icelandic experience, slather it with a spread of local butter – you’ll be Viking-level hooked! It’s a taste of the wild North Atlantic, vacuum-sealed in a bag.
2. Lava Salt by Saltverk (Birch-Smoked, Arctic Thyme, Seaweed, or Traditional)
This is not your run-of-the-mill table salt… this is a volcanic smorgasbord of flavor that adds a dash of exotic, earthy goodness to your meals. I gave some to my aunt who’s a professional pastry chef and she absolutely loved it!
Harvested from the pristine waters of the Westfjords, this arctic sea salt is evaporated using only the pure, geothermal energy of Iceland. The salt is then smoked over Icelandic birch for one signature flavor, while the seaweed encompasses the taste of the ocean.
Pick up the traditional flaky version for everyday use, or get out of your comfort zone with the Arctic thyme! Here’s an Amazon link for some if you’d rather it be shipped directly to your home.
3. Icelandic Omnom Chocolate
Okay, so you’ve heard of Swiss chocolate and Belgian chocolate, but Icelandic chocolate? Now we’re talking! Omnom Chocolate is the Willy Wonka of Reykjavik, a small artisanal chocolate factory with a big personality.
Each bar is crafted with cacao beans sourced from all over the world, and paired with organic cane sugar and Icelandic milk powder. To take it a step further, Omnom Chocolates places a huge focus on sustainability and eco-consciousness, so you can feel good about treating yourself to a bar… or 5.
Don’t have room in your carry-on? Have it shipped to your house! You can buy it directly from Amazon with one-day Prime delivery. The Lakkrís and Sea Salt bar is out. of. this. world.
4. Crowberry Jam
Step aside, strawberry jam! There’s a new kid on the block, and it’s got the tantalizing mystique of the Icelandic wilderness. Crowberries are small, dark berries that grow in the wild across Iceland.
They have a unique, slightly tart flavor that makes this jam an absolute morning toast game-changer. It’s like a slightly less sweet version of blueberry jam, with a subtle, earthy aftertaste that’s all crowberry.
You’ll find it at local markets, and it’s a fantastic way to start your day the Icelandic way!
5. Brennivín – the Fiery Water of Iceland
Brennivín, also charmingly known as “Black Death,” is an Icelandic schnapp that’s sure to awaken your senses! It’s distilled from fermented grain or potato mash and spiced with caraway, resulting in a flavor that’s similar to vodka but with a savory kick.
A bottle of Brennivín is bound to light up your next party and give your guests a taste of Iceland’s wild side.
6. Appelsín
A carbonated orange soda similar to Fanta in the U.S., this fizzy friend has been brightening up Icelandic beverages since 1955, and it’s not hard to see why it’s a local staple.
With its sunny color and refreshingly tangy yet sweet taste, Appelsín is a great souvenir from Iceland to bring home for your friends (though you may have to check a bag!)
Also, come Christmas, Icelanders love to mix it with a local blonde ale to create a festive brew known as ‘Jólaöl’. Try it out at your next festive get-together and you’ll be celebrating like the Icelanders.
7. Pylsusinnep – the famous mustard for Icelandic hot dogs
Now if you’re a hot dog enthusiast or just a fan of mixing up your condiment game, then Pylsusinnep should be on your list of Icelandic souvenirs to bring home! This sweet, tangy, mustard is a delight that no self-respecting Icelandic hot dog would ever dare to go without.
Often simply referred to as “hot dog mustard”, it’s something of a national treasure in Iceland. For a real Icelandic experience, slather it on a juicy hot dog along with raw and fried onions, ketchup, and remoulade.
8. Lakkris
Lakkris is the jet-black, slightly salty, and incredibly addictive candy that takes ‘love it or hate it’ to a whole new level. Made from licorice root extract, salt, and sugar, these chewy bites are often coated with chocolate for an extra hit of indulgence.
Locals can’t get enough of this popular candy and it’s become synonymous with the Icelandic sweets scene. And if you don’t find them during your trip, Amazon sells some delicious lakkris balls covered in chocolate!
9. Reyka Vodka
Ever had vodka distilled with lava rocks? Born and brewed in the land of fire and ice, this small-batch spirit is as Icelandic as it gets. Reyka Vodka is made from Arctic spring water so clean, it’s like sipping on a glacier.
This vodka goes through a distillation process using sustainable energy from geothermal heat, and then it’s filtered through lava rocks. Yes, you read that right… lava rocks!
The result? A smooth, slightly sweet vodka with enough character to hold its own in any cocktail, yet mellow enough to sip straight.
10. Tyrkisk Peber
We’re dipping our fingers into the Icelandic candy bowl again! This hard-boiled licorice candy packs a unique one-two punch of spiciness and saltiness, and it’s an iconic Icelandic confectionery institution worth adding to your Icelandic souvenir list.
Inside the innocuous-looking outer shell, there’s a powder of salmiac (salty licorice) and pepper that’s sure to make your eyes water in the best possible way. I’ve noticed it can be hard to come across if you aren’t necessarily on the lookout for it, so you can pick up a bag from Amazon if need be.
Made in Iceland Products
11. Icelandic Wool Sweater from the Handknitting Association of Iceland
The Icelandic wool sweater, or ‘lopapeysa’, as the locals call it, is pretty much the equivalent of a warm, woolly Icelandic hug. Handcrafted by the talented team over at the Handknitting Association of Iceland, these cozy sweaters are made from the wool of Icelandic sheep.
The wool is dual-layered with a scratchy outer coat called ‘tog’ and a super soft inner layer known as ‘þel’, making it water-resistant, breathable, and perfectly insulated against icy Arctic breezes. Plus, with the traditional Icelandic patterns around the neck, it’s easily among the most authentic souvenirs from Iceland you could buy.
They also make for a great souvenir to remind you of your Icelandic adventures while keeping you toasty back home. You can check out a selection of styles here.
12. Silica Mud Mask from the Blue Lagoon
Easily among the most sought-after souvenirs from Iceland by women, this white, creamy mask is literally scooped off the floor of the Lagoon (don’t worry, in a clean, sanitary way). Rich in minerals, it’s known for its skin-loving properties. It cleanses, exfoliates, and leaves skin feeling baby-soft!
Plus, it’s 100% natural, so you can pamper your skin without harming Mother Nature. If you’re looking for a souvenir that’ll bring a bit of Icelandic luxury to your bathroom, this is a must-have!
13. Traditional Icelandic Jewelry
If you’re looking for a wearable piece of Iceland that’s a touch more delicate than a wool sweater, traditional Icelandic jewelry is the way to go.
Icelandic jewelry designers take inspiration from the country’s stunning landscapes, incorporating elements like lava stones, Icelandic runes, and even pieces of glaciers into their designs!
These pieces often feature silver (a nod to the glacial landscapes) and volcanic rock (a tribute to the lava fields). So, why not take a piece of Iceland’s nature with you, cleverly disguised as a beautiful necklace, bracelet, or pair of earrings?
14. Winter-Weather Mittens
Mittens from Iceland are often lovingly knitted from 100% pure Icelandic sheep’s wool, known for its outstanding warmth and weather resistance. This wool is what makes these mittens the perfect chilly climate companion.
Whether you’re building a snowman, or engaging in an epic snowball fight, these mittens are your frost-fighting sidekick. With traditional Icelandic patterns adding a dash of Nordic charm, these mittens aren’t just practical – they’re a statement.
15. Handmade Crocheted Hat
Handmade hats are lovingly crafted by local artisans, using traditional Icelandic patterns, and let me tell you, they are as cozy as they come. Made from 100% Icelandic wool, these hats don’t joke around when it comes to keeping your noggin warm.
They’re like a personal heater for your head, but way more fashionable. Plus, they come in different colors and patterns – so you can match your hat to your mood, your outfit, or even your favorite Icelandic landscape!
They also make thoughtful gifts for friends and family back home.
16. A New Tattoo
Want to take a piece of Iceland home that is truly part of you? If you’re a tattoo enthusiast, or even if you’re a first-timer, nothing says ‘I had an epic time in Iceland’ quite like a tattoo.
Reykjavik has several tattoo shops well known for talented artists who can ink anything from traditional Icelandic runes to a detailed depiction of the northern lights dancing across your skin.
I have two tattoos myself and am likely done because they’re never enjoyable to get (no matter what anyone says), but I always wished I had gotten one of them while I was abroad!
17. Nordic Lágfótur Moccasins
Hand-crafted with love, these moccasins are the perfect blend of comfort and style. With a soft leather upper that hugs your foot like a second skin and a cozy sheepskin lining that keeps your toes toasty, these babies are a treat for your feet.
The flexible, lightweight sole lets you tread lightly, whether you’re roaming the rugged Icelandic terrain or shuffling around the house. Plus, the traditional Nordic patterns etched on the leather are truly a piece of art in themselves.
18. Icelandic Shawl
Made from the soft, luxurious wool of Icelandic sheep, this cozy wrap is enough to make a blizzard feel like a breeze. The designs are as mesmerizing as the northern lights themselves with intricate patterns and stunning colors influenced by the Icelandic landscapes!
Whether you drape it over your shoulders or wrap it around your neck as a scarf, a hand-stitched shawl is the epitome of Icelandic chic.
Authentic Icelandic Souvenirs For Your Home
19. Northern Lights, Blue Lagoon, or Sky Lagoon Photos
Now, I know you can’t guarantee northern lights sightings in Iceland, but you can guarantee some epic photos of you enjoying the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon simply by booking a timeslot!
These photos will serve as a reminder of your incredible time in Iceland every time you look at them. Plus, they make for beautiful wall art that’ll be a vibrant addition to your home while also being a wonderful conversation starter!
And if you really want some northern lights photos to brighten up your home but they decide not to give you a show while you’re in Iceland, there are a ton of talented artists who sell their photos in both Vik and Reykjavik.
20. Icelandic Music (Björk is very popular)
When talking about Icelandic music, the name Björk inevitably pops up. This quirky songbird has an eclectic style and avant-garde electro-pop tunes, and she’s almost single-handedly put Icelandic music on the global map.
Her music often integrates a unique blend of electronic, trip-hop, experimental, jazz, and alternative rock, creating a soundscape as diverse as the Icelandic terrain itself. For a unique addition to your nightly cooking routine or with your morning coffee, pick up one of her CDs in Reykjavik!
21. Wool Throw Blanket
Who doesn’t love a good snuggle under a comfy, cozy blanket? And when it comes to coziness, nothing beats an Icelandic wool throw blanket. Handcrafted by Icelandic artisans, these blankets are made from pure Icelandic sheep’s wool, which is the epitome of softness and warmth.
Natural, sustainable, and utterly gorgeous, these wool throw blankets are the real deal. Not only do they keep you toasty warm, but they also come adorned with traditional Icelandic patterns that bring a little bit of the land of fire and ice right into your living room!
22. Puffin Puzzle
If you’re a puzzle enthusiast or just looking to keep your hands busy while your coffee cools down, then a puzzle is just the ticket. Jigsaw puzzles featuring the adorable puffins – Iceland’s unofficial bird – are more than just a fun pastime, they’re a work of art!
Once completed, it showcases a vibrant scene of these charming birds in their natural Icelandic habitat. It’s a great conversation piece and makes for an eye-catching display on your coffee table.
23. Traditional Wood Carvings
Crafted from sturdy Icelandic timber, these fascinating pieces of folk art feature everything from charming puffins to majestic Icelandic horses, and even those mysterious folklore.
Each carving is brought to life with meticulous detail and a whole lotta love, capturing the essence of Iceland’s unique wildlife and mythical creatures right down to their last feather or hair. And the best part? No two pieces are the same! Each sculpture carries its own unique grain pattern, meaning your new horse, troll, or bird friend is one-of-a-kind.
These lovely little gems make for perfect mantelpiece decorations or desk buddies to keep you company during those seemingly endless work calls.
Cheap Souvenirs from Iceland
24. Currency – the Icelandic Króna
Who says money has to be all about business? In Iceland, even the currency tells a story! Known as the Króna (ISK), the Icelandic currency is a delightful mix of functionality and artistry.
The coins feature designs with four different sea creatures, including the common shore crab, the capelin (a small fish that’s super important to the local ecosystem), the golden redfish (which isn’t always golden nor red), and the Atlantic cod (the keystone of Iceland’s fishing industry).
The banknotes, on the other hand, showcase historical Icelandic figures who have left their mark on the country’s culture and history. We saved some notes and coins from our trip, and I suggest you do the same!
25. Key Chains
We all know that the best souvenirs are the ones that fit snugly in your pocket and don’t eat up your precious luggage space. Enter the humble key chain. These are small but mighty, boasting a big dose of charm in a tiny package.
They come in all sorts of designs—from miniature puffins and Vikings to tiny replicas of the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church or even the stunning northern lights! The wonderfully intricate details on these key chains will remind you of your awesome Icelandic adventure, plus they’re usually under $5.
26. Postcards
Ah, the classic postcard—remember when people actually sent these? Retro as they may be, they’re undeniably charming. And in Iceland, the postcards are simply beautiful!
You’ll find a vast array of designs from glaciers and volcanoes to vibrant cityscapes of Reykjavik and adorable illustrated puffins. Plus, you can’t beat a souvenir that’s light, easy to carry, and is affordable.
27. DIY Photo Album
In my opinion (take it as you wish), a DIY photo album filled with your own snaps from your Icelandic adventure is the ultimate personalized souvenir. Each page can represent a different day or a different adventure you had along your travels! I often use Shutterfly to make my own travel books and love them.
This way, you’ll never forget the moment you were cheesing hard next to a towering Geyser, a candid of you slipping on that black sand beach, or that perfectly timed shot of a puffin in flight!
Every picture tells a story, and this album is your personal saga – a tale of your journey through the land of fire and ice. Besides, some memories are too golden to not share with friends or grandkids!
28. Refrigerator Magnets
The unassuming refrigerator magnet – small, shiny, and oh-so-collectable. When it comes to Iceland, these little metallic objects can be found anywhere, but they still do a pretty good job of reflecting the country’s unique charm and character.
Featuring everything from the magical northern lights, cheeky puffins, and intricate Viking symbols, to miniature maps of Iceland, these magnets are like mini postcards, but with a magnetic strip so you can stick them to your fridge!
Cheap, light, and with various designs to choose from, something as simple as a fridge magnet can make an incredible souvenir from Iceland to bring home.
Iceland Souvenirs Online
Now, if you’re anything like me and detest the idea of lugging around a large suitcase whenever you travel and usually try to pack minimally, then I have good news for you… pretty much everything that you can buy in Iceland you can also buy online!
Since I pretty much always only have a backpack on me, it can be difficult to get the items I truly want to buy home – so, Amazon!
I spent some time researching the best souvenirs from Iceland before I visited, saw what they were selling for in Iceland, and actually found that I was able to buy a lot of the same items online cheaper… plus, they’d be shipped right to my door! Win-win in my book.
But, I absolutely understand the nostalgia of picking out a souvenir in the place while you’re there, so if you’d prefer to do that, just be sure to have enough room in your bags before you depart. This way, you won’t be attempting to wear all of your clothes onto the plane to make room for everything you bought!
Top Iceland Souvenir Shops
The #1 Iceland souvenir shop Reykjavik has to offer its visitors is Iceland Memories if you’re looking for a generalized souvenir store.
It has tons of Made in Iceland products including beautiful hand-painted postcards, canvas prints, jewelry, throw pillows, gift bags, and more! It’s definitely the place to go if you’re looking for something a little less touristy.
Other popular Icelandic souvenir shops include the Polarbear Gift Store, Shopicelandic, Woolcano, and The Viking. These stores are where you’ll find your typical Icelandic souvenirs like puffin stuffed animals, horned Viking helmets, and lava rock shot glasses.
They’re better known as “puffin shops” in Reykjavik, where most of the items are mass-produced from other countries. If you’re looking for authentic Icelandic souvenirs, then head directly to the main stores that specialize in just one product (i.e. the Handknitting Association of Iceland for a hand-stitched wool sweater or blanket).
Whether you choose to shop in-store or online, just have fun with it! Don’t stress too much about finding the perfect souvenir – the best ones are always the ones that have a story behind them.
FAQ
In this last section, I’m going to fill you in on some basic information regarding products from Iceland so you have a better idea of what to get before you go!
What are the Best Souvenirs from Iceland?
There are countless goodies you can bring home from Iceland that’ll have you reminiscing about your magical trip to this beautiful country.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, a bag of Icelandic Omnom Chocolate or some Lakkris (licorice) will surely suit your fancy.
Fancy a drink? Bring home a bottle of Brennivín, also known as Black Death – not as scary as it sounds, I promise! For the fashion-forward amongst us, a traditional Icelandic wool sweater or a stylish set of Nordic moccasins could be just the ticket.
And who can resist a cute puffin keychain or a beautiful photo of the northern lights to decorate your home? Don’t worry, if you aren’t lucky enough to spot them during your trip, there are plenty for sale in the souvenir shops in Reykjavik and at the airport!
What Can You Shop for in Iceland?
You can shop for everything from traditional handicrafts such as hand-knitted woolen sweaters, exquisite jewelry designs inspired by Viking and Celtic traditions, to artistic creations like paintings and sculptures that reflect the country’s unique landscape and culture.
If you’re a foodie, you’ll be thrilled by the range of Icelandic delicacies you can shop for – think dried fish, seaweed products, and the ever-popular Icelandic hot dogs. Get your hands on some Icelandic music to get those ‘land of fire and ice’ vibes going at home!
For those who love quirky items or have a kid who loves history in mind, you might just find yourself a Viking helmet! And of course, you could always get a puffin-themed souvenir, because… why not?
What is Iceland Famous For?
Iceland is famous for a whole host of cool and quirky things including its breathtaking natural scenery from gorgeous waterfalls, geysers, and glaciers, to stunning fjords and the enchanting northern lights, Iceland’s landscapes are a natural paradise.
Secondly, it’s home to some beautiful wildlife, like the adorable puffins and majestic Icelandic horses. And let’s not forget about the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa that’s on everyone’s Iceland bucket list.
Iceland is also famous for its unique culinary delicacies like fermented shark (which I don’t recommend trying – population numbers are dwindling) and Skyr yogurt.
And if you’re into Viking lore, Iceland’s rich history and sagas are as intriguing as they get. Lastly, who could overlook Bjork, the world-renowned Icelandic singer and songwriter who you should certainly be getting a CD from!
Do I Need Cash in Iceland?
Fortunately for travelers, virtually everywhere in Iceland accepts credit and debit cards, from the smallest hot dog stands to the bus system. You’ll find that you can pay for almost everything with plastic, and most places even accept mobile payment apps.
We actually picked up about $80USD worth of Icelandic Króna when we first arrived, and ended up actually searching for places we could use it on the last day our 3-day Iceland itinerary.
So, if you like to keep currency as a souvenir from your travels like we do, then pick up a little just to have and maybe spend, but don’t go overboard like we did!
To get a better idea of how much money you should plan to spend in Iceland, read Is Iceland Expensive? The Ultimate 2026 Breakdown.
What Kind of Jewelry is Iceland Known For?
Iceland is renowned for its stunning handcrafted jewelry inspired by its unique landscapes, history, and folklore. From necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings made from sterling silver, gold, or even lava rocks!
They depict symbols and motifs from Viking mythology and Celtic designs, and can be inspired by natural elements like glaciers, waves, and of course, the stunning auroras.
These pieces are designed to reflect the breathtaking beauty of the northern lights, usually made with vibrant, shimmering glass or gemstones.
What to Buy in Iceland Duty Free at Keflavik Airport?
At Keflavik Airport’s duty-free shopping center, you can snatch up a multitude of Icelandic goodies occasionally at reasonable prices, but remember that just because something is “tax-free”, doesn’t mean it’s necessarily cheaper than if you were to buy it in-store or online.
Shopping duty-free can be a great way to ensure you can get those large bottles of Brennivín in your carry-on since you’ll be past security, but don’t assume you’re undoubtedly saving money by waiting to buy your souvenirs from Iceland until you’re at the airport.
We ended up buying some Icelandic lava salt at the airport along with a few small samples of different types of alcohol to bring home for our friends to try, but that was it.
The prices were quite expensive in our opinion, and we found far better deals in-store and online on the items we were shopping for.
Other Helpful Iceland Resources
Do They Speak English in Iceland? 12 Icelandic Phrases
Is Iceland Safe? Global Peace Index & 10+ Safety Tips
When it comes to purchasing your Icelandic souvenirs, do your research and shop around to find the best deals for you!
Whether it’s at a local boutique, a souvenir shop in Reykjavik, at the airport, or even online, have fun shopping and finding the best souvenirs from Iceland to add to your home.
