Supermarkets in the Capital Area
Budget
Bónus
Bónus is Iceland's best-known discount supermarket and a favourite among locals looking for good value. The stores are straightforward and focus on everyday groceries rather than extensive specialty selections. If you're shopping on a budget, Bónus is usually one of the first places to check.
Prís
Prís is a newer addition to Iceland's grocery market and has quickly attracted attention for its low prices. The stores focus on keeping things simple, making it a useful option for travellers who want to stock up on groceries, snacks and other essentials without stretching their budget.
Krónan
Krónan is a discount supermarket and is generally considered one of the most affordable grocery stores in Iceland. Krónan stores are usually a bit bigger and brighter and often have a wider selection, especially when it comes to fresh meat, fish and produce. They also have a strong focus on health foods and dietary alternatives, making them a good choice for visitors looking for vegan, gluten-free or organic products.
Mid-range
Nettó
Nettó has stores throughout much of Iceland and offers more than just groceries. Alongside food you'll often find household goods, books, toys and seasonal items. It can be a convenient one-stop shop if you need to pick up a variety of supplies during your stay.
Costco
Costco operates a single warehouse store in Garðabær, just outside Reykjavík. Visitors with a valid Costco membership from abroad can use their existing membership card in Iceland, making it a useful stop for longer stays or self-catering holidays. It's a handy place to stock up on snacks, drinks, breakfast foods, cold cuts and other supplies before heading out on a road trip.
Premium
Hagkaup
Hagkaupis something of an upscale supermarket and tends to be more expensive than the discount chains. It is also one of the best places to buy lopi yarn if you can't make it to the Álafoss outlet. Some stores have very long opening hours, making them a convenient option when other supermarkets are closed. Hagkaup also has its own clothing section, offering a range of clothes in different styles and sizes. One of its main attractions is the huge pick-and-mix candy station, which becomes particularly popular on Saturdays, Iceland's traditional nammidagur (candy day).
10-11
10–11 is primarily a convenience store chain. You'll find snacks, drinks and basic groceries, often in central locations popular with both locals and visitors. The convenience comes at a price, however, as it is generally more expensive than the larger supermarket chains.
Krambúð
Krambúð is another convenience-store option, with smaller shops located in several neighbourhoods. It can be particularly useful when you need a few essentials outside the opening hours of the larger supermarkets.
Others
Melabúðin, Pétursbúð and Kjötborg are independent neighbourhood shops with a loyal local following. They may not be the cheapest places to shop, but they offer personal service and plenty of local character.
Fjarðarkaup is a family-owned supermarket in Hafnarfjörður known for its wide range of groceries and household goods. It remains a popular choice for many local residents thanks to its selection and service.