Connections between Iceland and Ireland began circa 700s or 800s when Irish monks first explored Iceland as mentioned in the books by Irish monk and geographer Dicuil.

[2] When Norse settlers arrived, many of the Irish monks left Iceland because they would not inhabit a country of "pagans".

[3] During World War II, both Iceland (in personal union with the Kingdom of Denmark) and Ireland remained neutral.

[7] In 2013, Iceland pulled its application for joining the EU, wishing instead to remain outside the union.

[8] Both nations are served with direct flights provided by airlines Icelandair and Play.