The Ultimate Guide to Road Signs in Iceland

Driving in Iceland is an incredible experience, with its stunning landscapes and open roads, but it’s important to be familiar with the country’s unique road signs before hitting the road. Icelandic road signs may look a little different from what you're used to, but once you know the basics, navigating becomes a breeze. 

Whether you're winding through rugged mountain passes or cruising along the coast, this guide will help you feel confident and prepared for your Icelandic adventure.

How to Read Road Signs in Iceland? 

Just because you’re in a foreign nation doesn’t mean that road signs will suddenly be cryptic, they’re built for road safety and are meant to be simple and easy to read. In Iceland, road signs typically have symbols and pictures and are quite similar to ones found in most parts of the globe. For instance, stop signs in Iceland have English writing on them making them easy to understand for most tourists. 

Here’s a quick tip on how to read Icelandic road signs: 

• Triangular signs indicate warning
• Circular signs are for prohibited items
• The word ‘Stans’ on a sign means stop and is commonly found at toll booths and busy junctions

Types of Road Signs in Iceland

Road signs are hard to miss in Iceland, from highways to intersections, there’s one on every street corner. Following road signs is crucial, both for your own safety and that of others. Don’t worry if you’re new to Iceland, road signs here are simple and easy to follow.

Warning Road Signs 

Warning signs alert drivers about potential hazards along the way such as speed bumps, tunnels, sheep, pedestrian crossing, dangerous road surfaces, road ahead narrowing, etc. These signs are marked by a red triangle with a black symbol in the middle indicating the type of upcoming alert.

Prohibitory Road Signs 

These signs are meant to restrict entry to certain areas (typically for certain vehicles, including certain maneuvers), set speed limits, and direct traffic in one-way zones. Identifying these Icelandic road signs is easy as they’re usually circular with red borders and have a yellow background with black text. Following prohibitory signs is part of the driving etiquette in Iceland. 

Priority Road Signs 

Priority signs indicate who gets priority at upcoming junctions and roundabouts. This could include crossroads, road bends ahead, or even a priority road altogether. These signs tend to be yellow with red borders and black symbols in the middle.

Mandatory Road Signs 

Mandatory road signs in Iceland are used in places where drivers are legally required to do something. For instance, a mandatory left or right turn, a mandatory path for equestrians (one of the most common road signs in Iceland, but fear not: horses have their own dedicated path so you don’t have to watch out for them). Irrespective of the situation, mandatory signs are not for general information, they must be followed at all times when driving in Iceland.

Mandatory signs are circular with a white border, blue background, and white text.

Information Road Signs 

These signs provide general information to drivers in Iceland whether it’s about bus stops, one-way traffic areas, parking nearby, etc. Information signs are typically square or rectangular in shape and have a white border and white text (mostly in English) on a blue background.

Service Signs

Service signs are particularly useful if you’re on your first road trip in Iceland as they mean there are amenities nearby. This could be a hotel, caravan park, or rental cabin, as well as emergency services such as fire, police, and Red Cross. Service signs are square with a thick blue border and either a picture or a black symbol in the middle indicating the type of service. 

Important Road Signs in Iceland

Now that you know about the main types of road signs in Iceland, here are some important ones you can keep an eye out for on your next trip. 

• Roundabout - Typically the inner lane has priority.

• Gravel Road - Indicating the need to slow down as tires can lose their grip.

• Icy Road - Indicating danger of ice on roads ahead.

• Road Closed - Road ahead is closed, typically, due to snow.

• Tunnel Ahead - Road ahead goes through a tunnel, so best to slow down.

• Sheep on the Road - Possibility of sheep and/or other animals on the road.

• Single Lane Bridge - Drivers should slow down as another car could be coming from the opposite direction.

• Driving Prohibited - Typically found in Reykjavík, and one to be aware of when exploring the city.

• Parking Signs - Indicates the type of parking zone.

• Speed Signs - Pay attention to these to avoid speeding tickets in Iceland.

• Point of Interest - Indicates upcoming attractions, ideal for tourists and locals alike.

Navigate Iceland’s Road Signs With Ease

As you set off in your rental car through Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes, being familiar with its road signs will make your adventure smoother and safer. With a little preparation and this guide as your reference, you can navigate Icelandic roads with confidence, whether you’re tackling the Highlands or cruising along the coast. Iceland’s roads are meant to be enjoyed—just remember to take it slow, respect the signage, and soak in the views along the way. Safe travels!

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