The Iceland Grocery Store Experience: What to Expect and Where to Shop

Did you know Iceland is one of the world's most expensive places for groceries? With limited farmland and high import rates, grocery prices can catch travelers off guard.

However, learning about the Iceland grocery store scene can help you budget smarter and even discover unique local foods. In this guide, we'll cover everything from budget-friendly stores to specialty shops with imported items.

You'll find insights on typical grocery costs, budget-saving tips, must-try Icelandic products, and road trip essentials to make shopping easier. So, if you're exploring Reykjavik or preparing for the Ring Road, knowing where and how to shop can make grocery shopping an enjoyable part of your trip to Iceland.

Overview of Grocery Stores in Iceland

Navigating an Iceland grocery store is a key aspect of any traveler's journey, offering both a glimpse into local culture and a practical way to manage expenses. With Iceland's high cost of living, dining out can quickly strain your budget. By planning grocery stops, you can enjoy local flavors without overspending.

Supermarkets like Bónus and Krónan, available all throughout Iceland, provide a range of products, from fresh produce to traditional Icelandic foods, allowing you to prepare meals on the go. It's worth noting that in some very remote areas, you might only find small convenience stores or local shops. Strategically scheduling these stops, especially before venturing into remote areas, ensures you have the necessary supplies and helps avoid the higher prices of convenience stores. 

This approach not only saves money but also time, giving you more freedom to explore Iceland's stunning landscapes. Embracing the local grocery scene enriches your travel experience, offering both economic benefits and a deeper connection to Icelandic daily life.

Budget-Friendly Options

When saving on groceries in Iceland, it pays to know where to shop for the best deals. Budget supermarkets are your go-to for essentials at low prices, and they help stretch your travel funds further.

With straightforward selections and competitive pricing, these stores make grocery shopping in Iceland both simple and affordable. Let's take a look at Iceland's top budget-friendly stores to help you find the essentials without overspending.

Bónus

Bónus stands out as the top choice for affordable grocery shopping in Iceland, especially among grocery stores in Reykjavík. Often called Iceland's version of Aldi, Bónus keeps costs low by focusing on essential items like bread, milk, eggs, canned goods, and frozen foods while avoiding branded products.

With its pink pig logo, Bónus locations are easily recognizable and are found throughout Iceland, though most are centered in Reykjavik. The store typically opens at 10 am (11:00 on other more remote locations), so it's best to plan ahead. 

Beyond affordability, Bónus is also a leader in green practices, being the first Icelandic grocery chain to eliminate plastic carrier bags in favor of biodegradable options. This commitment to sustainability is part of a broader internal policy aimed at reducing the store's carbon footprint.

Krónan

Krónan is a top choice for anyone looking for a food shop in Iceland, especially for those prioritizing healthy and organic options. Often compared with Bónus for affordability, Krónan sets itself apart by offering a wider selection, including a notable range of vegan and organic products.

It's a favorite for health-conscious shoppers, as the store promotes healthier choices by featuring nutritious snacks over sweets at checkout. Kronan also supports local producers, stocking specialty items sourced from Icelandic farmers and occasionally hosting farmers' markets to foster community connections.

This commitment not only enhances the quality of their products but also strengthens local agriculture. With locations throughout Reykjavik and parts of southern Iceland, Krónan makes it easy to shop sustainably and support Iceland's local farmers.

Netto 

Established in 1981, Netto is a well-regarded option for affordable groceries in Iceland, catering to locals and travelers alike. Known for its competitive pricing, Netto makes it easy to stock up on essential grocery items without breaking the bank.

Beyond food, Netto offers a surprising variety of household items, from knitting products to kitchen utensils, making it a convenient one-stop shop for travelers and locals. For those looking to save time, Netto was the first to introduce online food shopping in Iceland, making it a convenient choice for travelers who prefer to plan ahead. You can find their stores in Reykjavík, Hofn, Egilsstadir, Akureyri, Isafjordur and other several locations too!

With around 1,100 products available online and in-store, Netto features popular brand-name items over private labels, offering variety and familiarity. Some locations are open 24/7, making Netto a reliable stop for late-night or early-morning shopping needs.

Mid-Range and Specialty Stores

A mid-range Iceland grocery store offers travelers a wide selection of products beyond just food, catering to various dietary needs and preferences. These stores provide a balanced mix of affordability and diversity, with familiar brands and specialty items ideal for picky eaters. For those seeking convenience and choice, mid-range stores are a practical option for a fulfilling shopping experience in Iceland.

Hagkaup

Hagkaup is one of the premier supermarkets in Iceland, renowned for its extensive selection and higher-end shopping experience. Established in 1959 as a mail-order business, Hagkaup has grown into a major chain with seven locations across Iceland, including five in the Reykjavik area and one in Akureyri.

Unlike budget options, Hagkaup offers a diverse range of products beyond groceries, with over 60,000 items available. Shoppers can find cheap clothing and a wide variety of cosmetics, electronics, and household goods, making it a convenient stop for multiple needs.

While groceries at Hagkaup are priced higher than at budget stores, the quality and variety appeal to those looking for specialty items, including local and organic foods. Most branches stay open until midnight or even 24/7, except for the Kringlan shopping mall location.

Iceland

Iceland, the British supermarket chain (not the country), has been a quirky addition to Icelandic grocery stores since it opened in Reykjavik in 2012. Known for its wide selection of frozen foods, ready meals, and essential grocery items, Iceland caters to locals and tourists alike, offering convenient meal options and fresh produce.

With five locations across the Capital Region, it provides a distinct shopping experience, though it's not as widely recognized as popular local stores like Bónus or Krónan. Its unique branding has even sparked legal disputes with the country of Iceland, a bold move that adds a touch of notoriety to the chain.

Convenience Stores

You probably won't be surprised to know that convenience stores are more expensive than other grocery stores. Found across the city with inviting, glowing signs, these Iceland grocery stores use English labels, making them easy for tourists to understand. However, their high prices often catch visitors off guard. While they're ideal for quick snacks or pre-made meals, budget travelers may want to skip them to avoid overspending.

10/11

10/11, or 'Tíu Ellefu' in Icelandic, is a popular convenience store chain known for its accessibility and range of essentials. Found mainly in Reykjavik, including a notable location at Keflavik Airport, this store caters to both locals and tourists.

Offering a variety of convenience items, 10/11 stocks everything from snacks and drinks to basic groceries and ready-to-eat meals, making it ideal for quick stops. Open 24/7, it's especially convenient for late-night cravings or last-minute purchases.

However, 10/11 is known for its higher prices, with costs often 50% above budget-friendly grocery stores in Iceland like Bónus or Krónan. Positioned strategically near tourist attractions and hotels, 10/11 is a go-to for visitors seeking immediate access to essentials, though budget-conscious travelers may want to avoid frequenting it due to the elevated prices.

Krambúð

Krambúðin, a prominent convenience store chain in Iceland, is well-known for its accessibility, especially in smaller towns and rural areas. Established to serve local communities, this Iceland food store offers a balanced mix of grocery essentials, fresh produce, packaged foods, and household items.

While prices are generally higher than at larger supermarkets. Krambúðin provides the convenience of a nearby store, making it invaluable to both residents and travelers in remote locations. Many branches feature fresh baked goods, making Krambúðin a great stop for snacks or light meals.

With locations in towns such as Laugarvatn and Flúðir, Krambúðin ensures that even less populated areas have reliable access to groceries. The stores aim to meet the immediate needs of their customers, offering nutritious options and essentials that contribute to daily life, particularly where other grocery options are scarce.

Pricing and What to Expect in Icelandic Grocery Stores

To make the most of your grocery shopping in Iceland, it's helpful to understand local pricing and what to expect on store shelves. Knowing the cost of essentials and a few strategies to cut down on expenses can make a big difference in your budget.

Common Prices of Essential Items

When deciding what to buy in an Iceland supermarket, be prepared for higher-than-average prices, especially on imported goods. Iceland's reliance on imports means that items like fresh produce and dairy can be costly and may vary depending on seasonal availability. Here's a helpful list of common grocery prices to guide your budget:

• Bread (1 loaf): 400-500 ISK (about $3-4 USD)

• Milk (1 liter): 200-300 ISK (about $1.50-2.50 USD)

• Eggs (12-pack): 700-800 ISK (around $5.50-6.50 USD)

• Cheese (500g): 1,200-1,500 ISK (about $9-12 USD)

• Coffee (250g): 600-800 ISK (about $4.50-6.50 USD)

• Apples (1 kg): 400-600 ISK (about $3-5 USD)

• Bananas (1 kg): 300-400 ISK (about $2.50-3.50 USD)

• Chicken breast (1 kg): 1,800-2,200 ISK (about $14-18 USD)

• Pasta (1 kg): 400-600 ISK (around $3-5 USD)

• Rice (1 kg): 500-700 ISK (about $4-6 USD)

How to Save on Groceries in Iceland

When grocery shopping in Iceland, it's much easier to stick to your budget with a few savvy strategies. Here are some helpful tips:

• Shop at Bónus: Make Bónus your first stop after arriving, as it's one of the most affordable options in Iceland.

• Choose Store Brands: Opt for store-brand items instead of popular name brands, as these are usually cheaper and offer similar quality. Also, price difference between regions is generally not significant enough to impact your budget dramatically

• Buy Alcohol at Duty-Free: Alcohol in Iceland is costly, so buy it at the airport's duty-free store to avoid the high prices at local liquor shops.

• Go for Frozen Produce: Frozen vegetables, fruits, and meat are generally more affordable and stay fresh longer than fresh options.

• Plan Meals and Avoid Convenience Stores: Planning meals helps avoid last-minute purchases at pricey convenience stores, saving you extra costs.

Iceland's Unique Grocery Shopping Experience

Grocery shopping in Iceland is more than just a practical task; it's a unique experience that offers insight into Icelandic culture and values. From discovering local products that reflect Iceland's heritage to observing eco-friendly practices across stores, shopping here is full of distinctive touches.

Local Icelandic Products to Try 

Sampling Icelandic cuisine is an essential part of any trip, and grocery stores offer a variety of local products that capture the country's unique flavors. Here are five foods to look for that showcase Iceland's culinary heritage:

• Skyr: A thick, protein-rich dairy product similar to yogurt but creamier. Skyr is a popular Icelandic staple, available in flavors like blueberry, vanilla, and strawberry. Despite its creamy texture, it is actually classified as cheese!

• Smoked Lamb (Hangikjöt): This traditional delicacy has a rich, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with rye bread, making it a festive favorite in Icelandic cuisine.

• Lava Salt: Infused with activated charcoal, this black, mineral-rich salt adds a distinct flavor to dishes and makes for a memorable, compact souvenir.

• Harðfiskur: Dried fish, typically cod or haddock, is enjoyed as a snack in Iceland. It's chewy, protein-packed, and often eaten with a bit of butter.

• Icelandic Rye Bread (Rúgbrauð): This dense, slightly sweet bread is traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat, giving it a unique, earthy flavor.

Sustainable and Dietary Choices in Icelandic Grocery Stores

Sustainability and dietary awareness are increasingly prioritized in supermarket chains in Iceland. Locals and travelers alike appreciate Iceland's commitment to food quality, with many fresh fruits and vegetables grown locally in greenhouses powered by geothermal energy.

Livestock is mostly free-ranging, reflecting Iceland's emphasis on animal welfare and sustainable practices. Plastic bags have been phased out across grocery stores, so shoppers should bring reusable bags or purchase paper options. In Hafnarfjordur, Matarbúðin Nándin stands out as a plastic-free corner store.

As vegetarian and vegan diets grow in popularity, supermarkets and restaurants offer more options catering to these preferences. Major supermarket chains also stock a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. However, those looking for Kosher or Halal foods may need to look more closely; while some items are available at Kronan, Bónus, and Netto, kosher and halal meats can be more challenging to find. When it comes to gluten, major supermarkets carry glute-free products.

Grocery Shopping Tips for Road Trips

When shopping for groceries on an Icelandic road trip, a few tips can make your experience smoother and more budget-friendly. Here's what to keep in mind:

• Use Google Translate: Most product labels are in Icelandic, so the Google Translate app can help you understand what you're buying by typing or scanning names for translations.

• Bring a Bag: Icelandic stores don't provide plastic bags, so bring a reusable one, or be prepared to purchase a paper or compostable bag at checkout.

• Check Meat Labels: Iceland offers unique meats like foal or reindeer. Be sure to read labels if you prefer sticking to common meats like beef, pork, chicken, or lamb.

• Look for Icelandic Lamb: If you're after authentic Icelandic lamb, check for the Protected Designation of Origin label to confirm it's local.

• Buy Alcohol at Vinbudin: Alcohol over 2.25% is only available at Vinbudin, Iceland's state-run liquor store.

• Payment Methods: Credit cards (widely accepted even in remote areas) and contactless payments are common, but cash isn't accepted at self-checkouts, and foreign currency is generally not accepted. Still, it's always a good idea to carry some cash with you, just in case. 

Best Grocery Stops Along the Ring Road

When you buy groceries in Iceland for a journey along the Ring Road, it's best to stock up in larger cities like Reykjavik and Akureyri. These cities have the widest selection of grocery stores, including budget-friendly options like Bónus and Krónan, which can save you money before heading into remote regions. Outside these cities, grocery options become limited, with smaller stores often having higher prices and fewer choices.

Making the Most of Your Iceland Grocery Store Experience

Visiting an Iceland grocery store can be a challenge for travelers, as high food prices can quickly strain your budget. Imagine needing essentials for a road trip but only finding expensive dining options or limited supplies in remote areas.

This can leave you feeling unprepared and spending more than planned. The solution? Rent a car in Iceland and stock up at budget-friendly grocery stores like Bónus and Krónan in Reykjavik or Akureyri. With a rental car, you can conveniently carry everything you need for your journey, saving both time and money and staying well-prepared for every stop along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions About Grocery Shopping in Iceland

Do I need to bring my own bags?

Yes, bringing your own bags is necessary since Icelandic grocery stores do not provide plastic bags. Alternatively, you can purchase paper or compostable bags at checkout if needed.

Are there online grocery shopping options in Iceland?

Yes, many Icelandic grocery stores offer online shopping, such as Kronan, Iceland, and Netto.

Is Iceland expensive for groceries?

Yes, groceries in Iceland can be expensive due to high import costs and a focus on quality. Shopping at budget-friendly stores like Bónus and Krónan helps manage expenses effectively.

What is the cheapest supermarket in Iceland?

Bónus is considered the cheapest supermarket in Iceland, offering a wide range of products at competitive prices, making it a popular choice for both locals and travelers seeking budget-friendly shopping.

How much is a cup of coffee in Iceland?

A cup of coffee in Iceland typically costs between 500 and 700 ISK (approximately 3 to 5 USD), varying by location and type of establishment, with cafés in Reykjavik often charging more.