5 Best Grocery Stores in Iceland – Inc a Walmart Alternative!

It’s no secret that a vacation to Iceland is expensive. Hotels, attractions and food cost 50% or more than elsewhere in Europe and North America. However, buying food in grocery stores in Iceland can be a great way to save money.

Most supermarkets or grocery stores in Iceland are not found elsewhere in Europe. As such, it can be hard to find out:

• Which grocery stores have the best variety of foods
• Which grocery stores are the cheapest
• Which grocery stores sell specialist goods (if you’re travelling on a specific diet

I have travelled to Iceland several times over the past decade. Therefore, I wanted to put together this guide to help others, as well as a reference for myself for future trips.

1. Bónus

Bónus is the most popular grocery store in Iceland. You’ll find these stores all across the island. Bónus is an affordable grocery store that stocks a range of essentials. If you aren’t travelling to Iceland on a diet, this store should stock everything you need.

2. Kronan

Kronan is the number one competitor to Bónus. You can find these grocery stores across Iceland, especially in the capital, Reykjavík. The prices here are very affordable – as far as Iceland’s food goes. However, the range of fresh fruit, vegetables, and meats really sets this food store apart.

3. Netto

Netto is similar to Aldi or Lidl. In this grocery store, you’ll find a range of basic food and drink items and ‘weekly special buys’. Nettos ‘weekly special buys’ include everything from toilet seats to Icelandic knitting yarn.

Netto Iceland isn’t the cheapest of food stores. However, Netto has several stores open 24 hours a day. As such, on a late night, you’ll still be able to get some food (or a new toilet seat) here.

4. Vioir

Vioir is Iceland’s take on Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s if you’re from the US or Waitrose if you’re from the UK. This grocery store is not as cheap as Bónus, Kronan or Netto. However, Vioir does have the best selection of quality foods in Iceland.

5. Hagkaup

Hagkaup is Iceland’s version of Walmart. This grocery store chain has the largest buildings. Subsequently stocking the most extensive range of products. This not only includes food but also:

• Toys
• Cosmetics
• Homewares
• Clothes

The majority of Hagkaup stores are open 24 hours a day. Meanwhile, in terms of pricing, Hagkaup isn’t as cheap as Bónus or Kronan. However, the slightly higher price is often worth it for the convenience.