iceland trip in december

Iceland in December 2024

If you're visiting Iceland in December...

You're most likely asking yourself:

What are the top things to do? Can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland in December? How is the weather in Iceland in December?

All your questions will be answered below along with my best local tips and recommendations!

This is the ultimate guide to plan your AMAZING Iceland holiday in December. Let's get started!

WEATHER IN ICELAND IN DECEMBER

December is one of our absolute most beautiful months of the year in Reykjavik, Iceland. It’s hard to beat super cold crispy winter days, with snow everywhere you look and only warm Christmas lights to light up the day. And of course, after the lights go out, you might see the dancing aurora borealis (the Northern Lights ) above you to keep the night lit up as well.

One thing you must know:

December is when we have our shortest days.

In other words, December is the darkest month of the year in Iceland. Since our beautiful northern most capital of the world is located so close to the arctic circle, the days get super short in the winter … And of course, it’s the opposite in the mid summer with 24 hours of daylight!

With that being said, the days in December consist of very limited daylight – Normally only a few hours per day. The 21st. of December is our winter solstice. The shortest day of the year – Or the longest night. Normally the amount of daylight is around 4 hours, from around 12 PM – 4 PM. For some people, this long night might sound a little terrifying, but all doubt goes away if you are lucky enough to have the night lit up by snow or the magical Northern lights!

Average temperature in Reykjavik in December

The average temperature in Iceland in December is from -1°C to +4°C.

That is about 30-39° fahrenheit.

In other words = Do bring your warm clothes!

There is not a huge difference in temperature or weather in general between different parts of Iceland but wether you decide to stay in Reykjavik, Akureyri or any other town, you should dress properly.

Your Iceland gear should consist of a parka, wool or fleece sweater, warm under layers, hiking/winter shoes, warm hat, gloves and waterproof pants.

And dress with layers on top of layers! It will be cold but it will also be beautiful. Just make sure to dress warm and it’s better to be able to take layers off than being cold.

If you stay warm, then nothing will stop you from having a blast!

You might also like: Our Most Recommended Northern Lights tour. ​

TOP THINGS TO DO IN ICELAND IN DECEMBER 2023

December is a special time in Reykjavik and all of Iceland. The Christmas season is a huge thing for us locals and that means that almost every single person will be happily filled with that warm Christmas spirit from the end of November and through the whole holiday season.

Here are a few suggestions for awesome things to do in Reykjavik, Iceland that is especially awesome in December:

1. GO ON A SANTA CLAUS HUNT IN DOWNTOWN REYKJAVIK

Wrap yourself in all your layers of clothes, take a romantic walk in down town Reykjavik and try to find all 13 hidden hologram Santa Clauses around the city (they will be hiding in windows and on buildings!).

Icelandic locals will the fill the streets of Laugavegur in downtown Reykjavik every year on the 23rd of December. It's something I recommend everyone visiting Iceland to join in on - the atmosphere is something else!

Why the 23rd? Well, here in Iceland we celebrate Christmas on the 24th of December. And the 23rd of December is something we call Þorláksmessa. It's the perfect evening for friends to go downtown to enjoy a few beers before celebrating Christmas with their families. Others will walk the streets to enjoy pastries and hot chocolate.

While some will be stressfully rushing around in search of a last minute Christmas presents for their aunt or uncle that they had forgotten about. I always find this very amusing to see (except for when it's me.)

2 EXPLORE REYKJAVIK & ENJOY THE BEST LOCAL ICELANDIC FOOD

Ask anyone that has travelled to Iceland what they think about Icelandic food … it is amazing!

Every restaurant in Reykjavik will, of course, be serving outstanding food but the seasonal specialty during the cold winter months are warm, hearthy cuisines.

If you are a foodie, you should not hesitate to join our our most popular (and my personal favorite tour) The Reykjavik Food Walk.

It's a 3-hour food tour that takes place in downtown Reykjavik. It's packed with food & fun ... and truly is one of the best way to get to know Reykjavik and it's incredible food scene.

Click here for more info and tickets to Reykjavik Food Walk. Please note: If you are travelling close to Christmas or New Years Eve, you need to book your tickets far in advance since we will get fully booked.

3. CELEBRATE NYE LIKE A LOCAL, WITH LOCALS!

We are so excited to say that our Wake Up Reykajvík New Years Eve party is back for 2022! This year we partnered up with one of Reykjavíks most popular party spot, The Petersen Suite. The venue is a lounge and rooftop bar most known for its two-floored terrace that offers a spectacular 360° view of the city. Making it an ideal place to witness the famous fireworks display that takes place here every year. This is our favorite event of the year and it sells out every year , so we recommend securing your tickets as soon as possible! We here from the Wake Up Team will be there and we sure hope we get the chance to see you there and party with you.

Our New Years eve party is an exclusive event only for ticket holders. The party starts at 22:00 pm on December 31st, since most bars downtown won't open until 01:00 am on NYE, this gives you a chance to celebrate the new year here like us locals do! See our NYE Party event page for a more detailed description of the event and what's included.

Tip: If you are looking to go all out this year pre-book your bottle service since we can't guarantee there will be any tables left on New Years Eve. To do so send us a line at [email protected] .

4. SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS

December is a great month of seeing the Northern lights!

Going on a Northern Lights tour is my first recommendation for Northern Lights as you’ll have an expert scouting out the best areas in Iceland to give you the absolute highest chances of seeing the lights.

The tour also teaches you the best tricks to be able to photograph the Northern Lights which adds a lot of fun to the experience. Regardless of which option you’ll go with – I wish you the best of luck on your northern lights hunting adventure!

See Also:   Everything you need to know about the Northern Lights in December

5. GO ON A GLACIER ADVENTURE

To make the absolute most of your winter wonderland trip to Iceland, do something awesome in the snow!

My two personal favorites are:

• Exploring the Golden Circle via Super Jeep & Snowmobiling on Glaciers .
• ​ Glaciers & Waterfalls: Explore the South Coast of Iceland and then hike on a glacier!

An adrenaline adventure mixed in with glacier sightseeing.

How cool does that sound?

6. BATH IN AMAZING HOT WATER IN THE COLD

You won’t find any more local thing to do in Iceland.

You can either bath in our awesome local swimming pools that are all around Reykjavik or visit a natural hot spring in the countryside!

The local pools in town are easy to reach and affordable .

There are tons of absolutely amazing natural hot springs, hidden – and scattered around Iceland.

However, most of them are very hard to reach during winter and some roads might be closed ( Here is our blog on Natural Hot Spring).

But we also offer one kick-ass tour that will in one day take you around some of the most breathtaking sights of Iceland and end at one of my favourite natural hot springs in the country.

You can view the Golden Circle and Hot Spring tour here .

7. VISIT THE MUSEUMS

Visit some of the many great museums in Reykjavik.

My favourites are The National Museum of Iceland for history and what it means to be an Icelander (allow 1-2 hours here), The Settlement Exhibition Reykjavik 871+-2 (yes, the name is this long haha) but this is an super interesting place that will take you back to the viking age & the museum is built on top of one of the oldest man-made structures found in Iceland.

Two more interesting museums to visit are RAM (The Reykjavik Art museum) and of course, the Penis museum (… The Icelandic Phallological Museum).

Yes, you read that correctly …

TOP / BEST TOURS IN ICELAND IN DECEMBER

There are two things you should definitely keep in mind for planning your tours in Iceland during December.

1)   The last two weeks in December are very popular dates to visit Iceland and everything get’s booked up really early.

Therefore, I recommend you to book your tours & hotels as far in advance as possible.

2) Since daylight hours are limited in December (4-5 hours)

You need to plan your trip carefully and I recommend tours rather than self-drive during the darkest winter months to ensure both your safety and that your excursions are planned for the best daylight-hours.

Here are my best local recommendations for tours to do from Reykjavik, Iceland in December:

1. REYKJAVIK FOOD WALK

This tour is for everyone that wants to make the absolute most of their stay in the city and experience Reykjavik like a local.

And isn’t that everyone?

In a small group, you will make a new local friend that will show you all about Reykjavik, visit 5-6 unique Icelandic restaurants, introduce you to the most authentic cuisines at each venue and take you on a short tour around Reykjavik – so you will experience all the best of the city in just one day.

The Reykjavik Food Walk is currently rated the #1 tour of over 350 tours available in Reykjavik on Trip Advisor, with 3000+ 5 star reviews.

Click here for more info / tickets to the Reykjavik Food Walk.

2. SMALL GROUP GOLDEN CIRCLE TOUR

If you are in Iceland for just a few days, this is the best ‘see it all, do it all’ tour of Icelandic nature and natural wonders!

What I’m trying to say is that if you should do just one nature-exploring tour, it should be this one.

See Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir erupting geothermal area, the beautiful Thingvellir national park and more.

The beauty about doing this tour in December is that it departs early from Reykjavik (8:30-9:00am) which means you'll be driving out of Reykjavik in darkness. You'll be arriving to enjoy the sightseeing spots in daylight and then heading back to Reykjavik as it starts to get dark again.

Click here for more info on the small group Golden Circle tour.

3. SOUTH COAST OF ICELAND TOUR

Same as the recommendation above – another of what I would call the two “must visit” (and most popular) Icelandic nature tours available from Reykjavik.

If you have enough days to take both Golden Circle and South Coast, that would be perfect and I know you would go home with a very big smile, eager to visit again to see more!

This tour will take you to the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland (Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss), the infamous Black Sand beach, the small coastal town of Vík and Sólheimajökull glacier among other things.

Click here for more info on the South Coast tour.

4. NORTHERN LIGHTS ADVENTURE TOUR

Of course, the Northern Lights.

I’ve talked about this tour quite a lot in my other blog posts and already mentioned it above.

Why? It’s the best.

There are multiple way to see the Northern Lights (IF they are active on that particular night) but this tour is really adventurous & has the best ‘chance to see the Northern Lights’ rate I’ve seen so far.

So, it’s my recommended Northern Lights tour.

Click here for more Northern Lights info

NEW YEARS EVE IN REYKJAVIK

Alright! Just to get honest with you…

This night is CRAZY in Reykjavik as Icelanders really celebrate New Year’s Eve like no other.

For just more than a week, the ban for fireworks (yes, any kind of fireworks!) is lifted so every single person in Iceland is allowed to spend their entire month salary on explosives to light up the sky.

And of course, we do so!

This is also the biggest party night of the whole year (I know what you are thinking, alcohol & explosives go great together!).

This will without a doubt be the biggest party of the year & is perfect to make your NYE in Iceland absolutely unforgettable.

I also wrote a big and awesome blog just entirely about New Years Eve so if you are visiting for this huge night, I would definitely recommend you to read this: Everything you need to know about New Years Eve in Reykjavik .

CHRISTMAS IN REYKJAVIK

Who doesn’t love Christmas?

I think I can honestly say that during your Iceland trip in December you won’t come across a single person that doesn’t love this beautiful season.

These are the effects that the holidays will have on Reykjavik:

• Everybody should be in an even better mood that normal. WARNING: This might actually result in friendly Icelandic people become even more friendly!
• The whole city will be lit up with Christmas lights – Very useful during these dark days!
• There will be hidden Icelandic Santa Clauses all around the city!
• Everyone hopes for a white Christmas. It isn’t unlikely that Reykjavik will be covered in snow in December.
• The streets might smell like cinnamon! We use that a lot for our Christmas baking.
• There will be even more locals on the Laugavegur main shopping street than usual to buy presents.
• Almost all tours and restaurants get fully booked!

** Book early and contact us if you’d like us to help you with restaurant recommendations and reservations!

ICE SKATING PLAZA IN DOWNTOWN REYKJAVIK

On the 1st of December, one of the largest mobile companies in Iceland (NOVA) sets up a “Christmas Ice Skating plaza” in downtown Reykjavik located on Ingólfstorg.

This is really starting to settle in as one of our must do things on Christmas as the plaza really sets the Christmas tone in Reykjavik!

If you are in Iceland in December, make sure to pay the plaza a nice visit to get your Christmas vibes flowing!

CAN YOU SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN ICELAND IN DECEMBER?

Yes! December is the darkest time of year with the earliest sunset, which is around 3:30pm. Which makes December one of the best times of year to see the Northern Lights.

IS DECEMBER A GOOD TIME TO VISIT ICELAND?

December is a terrific time to be in Iceland. Reykjavik is covered in both snow and christmas decorations making it an beautiful winter wonderland. Icelanders also go all out with fireworks and celebrations for NYE. In addition, It’s also one of the best times of year to see the northern lights.

HOW COLD IS IT IN ICELAND IN DECEMBER?

The weather in December in Iceland ranges from 30-39 fahrenheit. Which is warmer then a lot of travelers expect. But it is recommended to pack a few extra layers since the cold arctic wind can get chilly.

IS IT DARK IN ICELAND IN DECEMBER?

December is our darkest month of the year. The 21st of December is our ‘shortest day of the year. The sun set will be around 3:30pm in December.

IS THERE SNOW IN ICELAND IN DECEMBER?

December is usually the month where Iceland has it’s first snowfall. Although it can vary from year to year.

CAN YOU SEE PUFFINS / WHALES IN DECEMBER?

It’s possible to see Whales in Iceland all year round. It is not possible to see the Puffins (The puffin season is from May-August.) But Iceland makes up for it in Northern Lights during the winter season.

CAN YOU DRIVE IN ICELAND IN DECEMBER?

Absolutely. Just to be sure, It is always recommend renting a four wheel drive if you’re planning on renting a car in Iceland during the winter months. But it’s usually not until January-March when Iceland experiences large snow storms.

CAN YOU GO TO THE BLUE LAGOON IN DECEMBER?

Yes, Absolutely. The December season is an extremely cosy time to visit the Blue Lagoon. It is however, always recommended to book in advance with as much notice as possible to ensure availability.

WHAT TIME IS SUNSET IN ICELAND IN DECEMBER?

Th shortest day of the year in Iceland is the 21st of December. Sun sets throughout December is at 3:30pm.

TO SUM IT UP …

If you are crazy enough to be thinking about visiting Iceland – and doing that during the darkest month of the year.

Absolutely go for it! You are going to love it.

It’s a beautiful season unlike any other. And you probably won’t find any travel destination more epic than this. Snow, Blizzards, Northern Lights and the city will be more alive than ever.

We are looking forward to seeing you!

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The Best Iceland Winter Trip Itinerary for One Week (+Map & Info)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: October 18, 2023

Planning a trip to Iceland in winter and wondering where to go and what’s the best way to plan your Iceland winter itinerary? This article features the best one week Iceland trip itinerary for winter months. Find out!

On our first trip to Iceland in June, we were caught up in a terrible winter storm with icy roads and road closures in the Northern part of Iceland.

So when planning a winter trip to Iceland, I figured that doing the entire Ring Road and visiting the Eastern and Northern parts of Iceland in winter is probably not the best idea. I decided to look for a winter trip itinerary focusing on the South Coast of Iceland, and it turns out that, indeed, this is the best area that you can visit in the winter.

Below is our Iceland winter trip itinerary with suggestions of what you can see and do on a road trip in Iceland in winter months, from about October to March – April. We made this exact trip in November.

This 7- day Iceland winter itinerary brings you to all the main landmarks along Iceland’s South Coast . It takes into account short daylight hours in Iceland in winter and leaves you sufficient time for sightseeing, some winter activities, and even some hiking. Find out!

Top Experiences in This Iceland Winter Itinerary:

• Sky Lagoon .
• Natural Ice Caves .
• Glacier Hike .
• Blue Lagoon .

7 – day Iceland winter trip itinerary and map

Just one note before I start with our Iceland winter trip itinerary. The days are short in Iceland in winter, so you cannot do as much sightseeing as in summer. You really have to keep this in mind when creating your perfect Iceland self-drive itinerary during winter!

We visited Iceland in mid-November and we always started our day at 8.30 AM, before sunrise. By the time we were back at our hotel (at the latest at 5 PM), it was already dark. It was light from approximately 9 AM till 4 PM in November in Southern Iceland.

The days are even shorter in December-January, so keep this in mind when planning your winter trip to Iceland.

READ ALSO: Iceland in Winter: Useful Info & Travel Tips

You will need to rent a car for this trip! You can find some of the best deals for car rental here .

Important! If you do not have winter driving experience, do yourself a favor and join a tour instead of driving. Here you can find more information about driving in Iceland in winter . Here you can find a great 3-day winter tour of South Iceland that covers all the ‘must-see’ places from our winter itinerary.

In addition, you can stay in Reykjavik on the first and the last days of your trip and visit the main Reykjavik attractions including the geothermal baths of the Blue Lagoon and/or Sky Lagoon . That way you visit most places from this itinerary without having to drive.

TIP: If you absolutely want to do the entire Ring Road of Iceland in winter , do yourself a favor and go with an organized tour and a local guide. The roads in the north of Iceland are even more challenging than in the south! Here you can find some 6-day trips like this one that could help you visit most of the best places without driving.

And if you are planning to drive – read on for the best self-drive Iceland winter road trip itinerary!

Best self-drive Iceland winter itinerary:

DAY 1 – Arrival in Reykjavik Keflavik Airport and Drive to Hveragerdi

Since our flight arrived in the afternoon, we drove straight to our hotel in Hveragerdi. Hveragerdi is a small town that is better situated for Iceland winter trip than Reykjavik as it will save you quite some unnecessary driving in the dark. Furthermore, it has a great geothermal swimming pool. This is an ideal way to spend your first evening in Iceland!

If your flight arrives early and you have more time to spare, you could opt to spend several hours at the famous geothermal pool Blue Lagoon (it’s located close to the airport). However, the Hveragerdi pool is a much cheaper and less touristy option.

There are several restaurants in this little town and I recommend eating out as there is more choice and the prices are lower than at the hotels.

Note that we didn’t stay in Reykjavik at the beginning of the trip and drove straight to Hveragerdi where we would stay for 2 nights. Hveragerdi is well located for a visit to the Golden Circle and it saves quite some driving time for the rest of your journey further down the South Coast of Iceland.

We stayed at Hotel Eldhestar for 2 nights. It was pretty basic, but we were only there to sleep, so it was ok. You can find more Hveragerdi accommodation options here.

The real reason I traveled to Iceland in winter was my long-time dream to see Northern Lights . So on the first night already we went ‘hunting’ for auroras. They were very vague and better visible in the pictures than in reality, but it was just the first night, so it gave us hope.

DAY 2 – Golden Circle: Thingvellir NP – Geysir area – Gullfoss Waterfall

Iceland’s must-do day trip is the visit to the famous Golden Circle . It’s possible to do it as a day trip from Reykjavik as well.

The Golden Circle refers to three main attractions – Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

We started our day at Thingvellir National Park . It was just magical in the soft morning light of a never-ending sunrise…

We then continued to the Geysir area where we also had an early lunch.

Strokkur Geyser is the main attraction here and one of the must-sees in Iceland. This geyser erupts every 5-7 minutes, so you can watch it in action several times.

If you have more time, you can walk around and explore this geothermal area deeper. Near Strokkur Geyser, you can also see Geysir . This is the original geyser that was first mentioned in written sources in Europe and it gave name to all others. However, this geyser is dormant and there hasn’t been an eruption for years.

In the afternoon we visited one of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls, the Golden Waterfall – Gullfoss .

The area around this waterfall is quite large and can be explored via a series of boardwalks and staircases. In the summer, you can walk really close to the waterfall, but in the winter, it’s very icy and the path is closed. Don’t worry though – the best views are accessible, just be careful as it can be very slippery everywhere (that’s why we recommend packing snow traction cleats for your winter trip to Iceland).

TIP: End your day in one of the nicest geothermal pools of Iceland, Secret Lagoon . It’s ideally located on the way from Gullfoss back to your hotel in Hveragerdi. Alternatively, there is also a more expensive option – Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths , which is also located in this area.

DAY 3 – Skogafoss Waterfall – Glacier Hiking – Reynisfjara (Vik)

Our first stop on day 3 of our Iceland winter trip was at another iconic landmark of Iceland – the Skogafoss Waterfall .

This is one of the most impressive landmarks along the South Coast of Iceland and no pictures do it justice.

The best view is from the base of the waterfall which is just near the car parking. However, if it’s not too cold or slippery on the stairs, I encourage you to make an effort and go all the way to the top of the waterfall. The views are well worth the steep climb!

After a visit here, we had a quick lunch on the way and continued to Solheimajokull glacier for a guided glacier hike .

TIP: Book your glacier hike in advance – this will help you plan your time better and you will be certain you can do this activity. Otherwise, it might be difficult to even know where to look. Most companies have their offices in Reykjavik and so there is no one around to even ask for information.

• You can book a short guided glacier walk on Sólheimajökull . This tour fits this itinerary the best as it starts at Sólheimajökull Café, not too far from Skogar Museum.
• Vatnajökull Glacier Blue Ice Cave Tour is another good option for those who want to visit a natural ice cave. It starts from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and can best be done on day 4 of this itinerary.

If glacier hiking or ice caving is not your thing, you can visit the Skogar Museum .

It is divided into three parts: folk museum, turf houses, and transport museum. The turf houses are well worth seeing.

In summer you could easily do both – glacier hiking and Skogar museum, but in winter your sightseeing time in Iceland is limited and you have to choose and plan well.

After the glacier walk, we drove to the beautiful black sand beach at Reynisfjara (near Vik) . This beach is famous for its black sand, rock formations, and impressive basalt columns. It’s one of the places that’s included in all Iceland itineraries, so it attracts lots of people.

This is really one of the must-sees in Iceland and the beach is beautiful and worth a visit in any season and in any weather.

Good to know: The waves here are very sneaky, often flooding the entire beach unexpectedly. It often happens that people are swept off their feet and there have been quite a few serious accidents too. So never walk close to the water here and never turn your back to the sea!

TIP: There is a small cafe where you can get some warm drinks and hide from the wind and the cold for a couple of minutes.

It was so beautiful on the beach that we stayed until the dark. Sunsets are truly out of this world in Iceland in winter!

TIP: There is a new attraction in Vik – Icelandic Lava Show – that wasn’t yet open when we visited. It’s indoors, is open late every day, and it would be a very nice addition to this winter itinerary. If you want to see and feel the heat of real lava, don’t miss this unique opportunity. Book your tickets in advance!

We recommend staying in the Kirkjubaejarklaustur area. On this trip, we stayed at Hotel Laki . Some other recommendations based on our other trips in the area include Glacier View Guesthouse in Hrífunes or Magma Hotel in Kirkjubaejarklaustur .

DAY 4 – Vatnajokull Glacier – Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon – Diamond Beach

On the fourth day of this winter trip, we continued along the South Coast all the way up to the famous Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.

Our first stop was at Svinafellsjokull Glacier where we made a short walk to one of the many tongues of Vatnajokull Glacier .

This is just a short walk from the parking and is normally doable in winter too. The views are worth it.

In the early afternoon, we reached Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon .

If there is one place you don’t want to miss in Iceland, it’s Jokulsarlon! I’ve been here so many times, in different seasons and all kinds of weather, and it never disappoints.

On this winter trip, we were extremely lucky with the weather and the glacial lake was simply spectacular.

In the summer, you can take a boat trip between the icebergs, but these tours don’t run in the winter. You are not missing much though. You can walk along the coastline of the lagoon and the scenery is just as stunning.

TIP: Don’t miss the so-called Diamond Beach just across the road from Jokulsarlon, and certainly when visiting Iceland in winter.

This beach is located just where the floating icebergs from the nearby lagoon reach the sea. With the wind, many of the icebergs are washed ashore. The cold temperatures and the wind turn this coastline into an amazing winter wonderland.

In the summer, the beach is often empty, or there are just a few smaller pieces of ice. In the winter, you can sometimes see huge chunks of ice here. It’s like walking between the giant diamonds. Absolutely breathtaking!

We stayed on Diamond Beach till sunset and seeing all those icebergs lit up with the setting sun was an unforgettable experience.

I found Jokulsarlon Diamond Beach even more impressive in the winter than the famous Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon itself.

Good to know: There are two beaches here, one on each side of the bridge. Depending on the wind direction, there might be more ice on one side than on the other. So look around when you are there before deciding which one to visit. And if both look nice and you have time, visit both!

Our hotel for the night was Hotel Smyrlabjorg . If I were to go now, I would recommend staying at the newer Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon – it’s the nicest hotel in the area! Alternatively, you can find more information about Jokulsarlon accommodation here .

PRO TIP: This area has very limited accommodation options, so you really have to book a hotel here as soon as you know your travel dates!

The amazing Northern Lights display we witnessed that night exceeded all our expectations. But so did all the rest! I loved Iceland in winter and would have loved it just as much even if we hadn’t seen any auroras.

READ ALSO: All You Need to Know for Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland

DAY 5 – Jokulsarlon – Fjallsarlon – Skaftafell

We started our day early and made a quick stop at Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon at sunrise . We just couldn’t get enough of the scenery here!

We then continued to the nearby Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon , a short drive further. It’s a smaller and (much) less visited glacial lagoon than Jokulsarlon, but it’s also not to be missed!

If you travel here before mid-November, you can do boat tours between the icebergs. Unfortunately, boats don’t run in the winter months (some stop in September, others in October, and some run till mid-November).

TIP: If you are doing this trip earlier or later in the winter (October or February – April) when the days are longer, you could easily add Stokksnes headland to this itinerary as well.

It’s located a bit further east of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, about 75 minutes drive one-way. So going there will add at least 3 extra hours to your day.

Stokksnes is very scenic and many people find it worth a detour. But don’t try to squeeze in too much if you are traveling in the darkest months! Keep in mind that the roads might be icy too.

If you decide to do that, you could drive there first thing in the morning on day 5 or in the afternoon on day 4 of this itinerary.

On this trip in November, the days were too short for a detour to Stokksnes.

We continued back west to Skaftafell, part of Vatnajökull National Park . Summer or winter, you should not skip Skaftafell. It’s a beautiful area with lots of hiking trails.

During this Iceland winter trip, we hiked to the famous Svartifoss Waterfall and continued on the Sjónarnípa trail . The views were simply amazing!

During our previous trip, years ago in summer, we did the Svartifoss – Sjónarsker – Sel walk and the walk to the glacier Skaftafellsjökull.

There are many hiking trails in Skaftafell National Park and quite some of them can be accessible in winter. But it’s best that you ask about current conditions at the visitor center before starting any walk. They will be able to advise you on the best hikes for that specific moment.

The weather is unpredictable in Iceland and even more so in the winter, so what you can do here will depend on the situation at the moment of your visit.

Alternatively, if you want more certainty, book an ice cave tour at Skaftafell . These tours run from October to March – mid April and are one of the best things you can do in Iceland in winter! Because you hike on the glacier and are equipped for walking on ice anyway, it’s a bit more reliable than planning regular hikes.

We stayed in the Kirkjubaejarklauster area, in the same hotel as on DAY 3 of this itinerary.

DAY 6 – Fjardrargljufur Canyon – Eldhraun Lava Field – Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

We started our day at another iconic landmark of Iceland – Fjardrargljufur Canyon .

Here, you basically walk on the ridge of the canyon enjoying the views below. There are a few viewing areas too which are probably a safer choice if there is snow or ice on the trails.

It was so cold when we were here, that I can’t even try to explain it in words. But we braved the wind and made a short walk at this majestic canyon.

Afterwards, we drove through Iceland’s largest lava field – Eldhraun – and made a short stop to admire this surreal landscape.

Eldgjárhraun, to the east of Mýrdalssandur, is one of the largest lava flows that ever occurred, during a massive volcano eruption in 974.

The dimensions of this lava field are immense – some 700 km2. For comparison, the total area of Singapore is 648 km2.

Continuing our journey back in the direction of Reykjavik we visited Dyrhólaeyjarviti Lighthouse and made a coastal walk from there to Kirkjufjara beach below.

If you are short on time or if it’s very cold, you can just drive to the lighthouse and enjoy the coastal scenery and the views from there.

The last stop today was another famous South Coast waterfall – Seljalandsfoss . It had been freezing cold over the last few days and the area close to the waterfall was completely frozen. We could hardly walk or even stand here. This is the reason you should pack ice cleats when visiting Iceland in winter!

Needless to say, the path behind the waterfall was closed, but it was still unbelievably impressive. Maybe even more so because it was frozen in winter.

We ended our day with the last stop of our Iceland winter trip – Reykjavik .

We stayed at the Fosshotel Reykjavik for 2 nights. Here you can find our complete guide to the best places to stay in Reykjavik .

DAY 7 – Reykjavik + Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon

Now I’m not going to make myself popular with Icelanders I suppose, but in my honest opinion, one day is enough for Reykjavik, especially if you have limited time in Iceland. So on this winter trip, we didn’t spend too much time in the city. Here you can read my observations if Reykjavik is worth visiting .

Update: As I’m updating this post after several more recent trips to Iceland, I have to admit that Reykjavik has changed a lot. There is so much more to see and do in the city than before (check out Perlan or the Whales of Iceland exhibition !). Still, if you are short on time, half day to one day is sufficient for Reykjavik because the real beauty of Iceland is in its natural wonders.

One thing you really shouldn’t miss in Reykjavik is the Hallgrimskirkja. The view from the church tower is really worth it, but also the church itself is really special, so definitely worth seeing.

TIP: Take a look at our Reykjavik 1-day itinerary for suggestions on what to see and how to plan your time in the city.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Reykjavik

During this winter trip in Iceland, I found that a couple of hours were sufficient to see Reykjavik. I chose to visit the geothermal pool of Blue Lagoon in the afternoon.

Blue Lagoon is extremely popular and touristy, but it’s kind of a must in Iceland so I decided to check it out. After all, there is no better way to end your Icelandic winter trip than sipping a drink while sitting in a hot thermal pool with a mud mask on your face. And before you ask, no, I don’t have a picture of myself with a mud mask…

TIP: If you go to the Blue Lagoon, you’ll have to book your tickets in advance . Here you can book bus transfers to get there from Reykjavik.

Another really nice pool is the recently opened Sky Lagoon . It’s much closer to the city than any others and the views are amazing! Many of our readers say that they much prefer the Sky Lagoon experience over the Blue Lagoon.

TIP: Also for the Sky Lagoon, it’s best to reserve your tickets in advance . You can also opt for a ticket that includes a transfer from the city .

Alternatively, go swimming in one of the local swimming pools in Reykjavik, at a fraction of the cost, and just as fun.

Blue Lagoon has become so busy and quite expensive in recent years. If you are looking for quieter alternatives, you can also visit Secret Lagoon or Laugarvatn Fontana . Both can be visited by car from Reykjavik or you can join tours that go there.

So this is our Iceland winter trip itinerary for one week in a nutshell. It brings you to the nicest places on the South Coast of Iceland while leaving plenty of time to explore and even do some winter hiking on the way. You could probably squeeze the same Iceland winter road trip itinerary in 4 or 5 days as well, but then you’d have less time left for hiking and sightseeing…

When the days are longer, you can visit pretty much all the same places in 4 days. For more information, please check our very detailed itinerary for the best of Iceland in 4 days .

If you decide to visit Iceland in the warmer months instead, check out this 7 days Iceland itinerary . It covers all the places mentioned in this article and so much more. Because the days are endless in summer and the roads are good, you can indeed see a lot more in the same amount of time. We also have a suggested self-drive Iceland Ring Road itinerary , but we really only recommend doing in summer – early fall.

If you are interested in getting a pdf copy of this winter trip itinerary, complete with daily maps and more details, you can download it by filling in the form below. However, please note that we are not able to update this file on a regular basis, so for the most recent information, please consult this article on our website.

Keep reading for more tips for your Iceland winter trip!

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Organized Tours – Iceland Winter Trip Alternative

If you are not keen on driving in Iceland in winter, consider one of the organized small group multi-day tours, such as this highly-rated South Coast & Blue Ice Cave 2-day tour .

It’s often easier and cheaper to book a multi-day tour in Iceland than do it on your own, especially if you are traveling alone or as a couple and are not used to driving in extreme winter conditions. Furthermore, organized tours often have winter excursions like glacier hiking or ice cave already included in the price.

TIP: If you are visiting Iceland for just a few days, you can base yourself in Reykjavik and book some day trips and excursions from there. Driving up and down to all these places from Reykjavik on your own is not something I would advise in winter. Here you can find our hand-picked selection of the best winter day trips and short tours from Reykjavik .

Good to know: We recommend booking all your tours via a reputable company like GetYourGuide . Their customer service is second to none and they have the most flexible 24hr free cancelation policy. After seeing how some local providers in Iceland refused to reimburse people for canceled tours during the recent crisis, while GetYourGuide reimbursed everyone even within 24 hours, I’m more convinced than ever before that booking tours directly with small providers isn’t ideal.

Update: I received many questions from readers in regard to Iceland itinerary suggestions for shorter or longer trips. Here you can find suggested Iceland itineraries for any trip between 1 day and 2 weeks . Check it out!

Some Practical Tips for Your Iceland Winter Trip

Below are some tips for your winter trip to Iceland:

✓ Planning to rent a car and do a self-drive trip in Iceland following this itinerary? Normally, you don’t need a 4WD for this trip, but I would advise not to rent the smallest car either. And the price difference with 4WD isn’t that big, so if you are in doubt just go for the latter, especially if driving in Iceland in winter . You can find some of the best deals for Iceland car rental here . No matter where and what car you hire, make sure that you take full insurance. It’s a must in Iceland in any season, but even more so in winter.

✓ Traveling to Iceland in winter? Don’t forget good travel insurance for yourself as well!

✓ Wondering what to pack for your Iceland winter trip? Below are some of my hand-picked essentials for Iceland. Here you can find the complete Iceland packing list for winter .

✓ Don’t forget a travel adapter! Iceland uses European plugs .

✓ Looking for the best accommodation deals in Iceland? Check this guide for the best places to stay in Iceland and also this guide for the best places to stay in Reykjavik .

READ ALSO: Iceland Winter Travel Tips

I hope that you found this Iceland winter itinerary useful. Because of the unpredictable weather and chances for road closures, the South Coast of Iceland is one of the best regions to visit in Iceland in winter.

I hope that this article and our tips help you plan an unforgettable winter trip to Iceland! Make sure to also read our other articles that contain many more tips and practical information for your trip. Take a look below!

More tips for your winter trip to Iceland:

• Airport transfers: How to Get to Reykjavik from Keflavik Airport
• Budget: How Expensive is Iceland (& How to Save Money)
• Good to know: Tips for Visiting Iceland
• Packing: What to Wear in Iceland in Winter
• Accommodation: Where to Stay in Reykjavik & Where to Stay in Iceland
• Near Reykjavik: Best Half Day Tours from Reykjavik
• Winter tours: Best Iceland Winter Tours from Reykjavik
• Nice to see: Perlan Museum in Reykjavik
• Auroras: Northern Lights in Iceland (all your questions answered)
• Photography: How to See and Photograph the Northern Lights
• More: Check our Iceland travel guide for even more inspiration and tips

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Friday 9th of February 2024

hi , if I were to follow exactly of this 7 days road trip in March will it still be ok to self drive ? THANKS

Saturday 10th of February 2024

Hi Jessey, March is still winter in Iceland so you never know in advance how the weather or the road conditions will be. It can be dry and beautiful or you can get caught in a snowstorm... So only do a self-drive trip if you have winter driving experience and understand that conditions can change at any time. Otherwise, stay in Reykjavik and book day tours or consider a multi-day trip with a local guide/driver, as already explained in the article above. Have a great trip!

Tam Harrell

Monday 2nd of October 2023

Hi there, I’ve been dreaming of going to Iceland for 10 years! We’re finally able to go this year. I love you article on where to visit. Can you please help me where to stay for and how long I should book for each attraction? That’s where I have a hard time planning.

Thank you so much! Tam Harrell

Hi Tam, all this info is already in the article including the hotels that fit this itinerary. Since it looks like you are planning on traveling in the winter, I strongly encourage you to read the following guides as well: Iceland winter travel tips and driving in Iceland in winter. If you would decide to stay in Reykjavik and make day tours, please see the following guides as well: Where to stay in Reykjavik and Best winter tours from Reykjavik. Hope this helps.

Bineet Desai

Saturday 16th of September 2023

Hi...were the northern lights visible from Jokulsarlon area where you stayed or did you have to book a separate tour for the same. We are a family of 4 planning to visits in Dec.

Sunday 17th of September 2023

@Jurga, Thnx. Your blog has made it super easy for us to plan our trip.

Hi, if the Northern Lights show up and it's not cloudy, you can see them anywhere. So if you are doing a road trip and are staying in rural areas, keep an eye on the aurora forecast every night and you always have a chance to see them. We only recommend taking tours if you are staying in the city (because of the light pollution, weaker auroras are often not visible in town but might be visible in the darker places). You can find more information in our guide to the Northern Lights in Iceland. Have a great trip!

Monday 4th of September 2023

We’re going for 7 days at end of sept to 1st week Oct. I feel like we’re between your 2 itineraries. Should we still go to the. Snell… peninsula ? I noticed it’s not on the winter itinerary. Thanks.

Tuesday 5th of September 2023

@Kathy, yes, sorry. That was due to stupid autocorrect!

@Jurga, thank you so much. I have really enjoyed your blog and information. I suppose the highlands are not an option due to weather? Same with Ahriman island?

Hi Kathy, the first week of October is doable for the summer itinerary. Just to make it clear - you can also visit Snaefellsnes Peninsula in winter, but the roads can be more dangerous and there is more chance for very strong winds. The main reason it's not in the winter itinerary is that the number of daylight hours is really limited and there is only that much that you can fit in a day (or a week). In October, the weather shouldn't be too wintery yet and you still have about 12 hours of daylight in the first week of October (more or less between 7 am and 7pm). So if you start your days early and plan well, you can see a lot. Our 'summer' itinerary should work timing wise, I'm just not sure if Heimaey Island would be worth it at that time of the year (and the Highlands are not an option). So you could spend an extra day on the south coast or somewhere else depending on your preferences. Enjoy your trip!

Wednesday 2nd of August 2023

Do you have any suggestions for adding in some time at the snfellsnes peninsula?

Saturday 5th of August 2023

Hi JoAnna, yes, absolutely. Please see our travel guide to Snaefellsnes Peninsula and also the best things to do in Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Just keep in mind that not everything will be just as easily accessible in winter as in the summer. Hope this helps.

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Iceland in December: A Wholesome Guide for Your Trip

It is that time of the year again when winter returns to its original glory in Iceland and most landscapes are covered in snow once again. December, without a doubt, is one of the coldest months that Iceland sees. Despite the gut-wrenching cold and the next to never-ending dark hours, December is anything but dreary. It is one of the months which sees the most celebratory occasions, like Christmas and New Year’s festivities . While the highlands roads are closed due to heavy snowfall, the place is still filled with plenty of things to do around the clock, both inside and outside the city and not to mention, it is one of those months when you can see Aurora Borealis as the actual beauty that it is.

Weather in Iceland in December

Temperature.

The average temperature of Iceland in December ranges from -1°C to 4°C (34°F to 39°F) . December can be seen as one of the coldest months in the country. Most parts of Iceland are extremely cold although the capital city remains a bit hotter as compared to other areas.

Daylight hours and Precipitation

There are only 4 – 4.5 hours of daylight in Iceland in December. Winter Solstice, the shortest day in Iceland, is only 4 hours and 7 minutes long. Winter Solstice falls from around 20 th to 22 nd December. It will occur on the 21 st of December in the year 2020. The country gets an average of 97mm of precipitation in December which can come in any form from drizzle to heavy rainfall, snowfall, or blizzard.

• Daylight hours in Iceland

Pros and Cons of Visiting Iceland

The festive spirit, the incoming winter season, and the authentic vibe of the land of fire and ice are what you will get to experience when you visit Iceland in December. Your heart will be filled with Christmas cheers and you will be feasting on not only incredible dishes but also the traditions of Iceland. Although, the temperature of Iceland is extremely cold in December and you may find out that some of the hot spots and activities are closed due to bad weather.

Best Self Drive Activities in Iceland in December

• Katla Ice Cave
• Crystal Ice Cave
• Snorkel Silfra
• Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike

December Special Attractions of Iceland

Like most of the touring activities and options, lava caving is also available whole year-round. While it is always an experience to remember, visiting lava caves in winters is especially gorgeous because of the beautiful ice sculptures formed inside of them. The porous lava rocks let the water seep through which freezes before it can reach the ground and hence from beautiful ice structures known as stalactites – structures that hang from the ceiling. Whatever amount of water reaches the ground freezes as soon as it touches the floor of the caves and forms structures known as stalagmites – structures that grow from the ground above. Some caves which are accessible for touring all year-round are Leiðarendi , Víðgelmir , and Raufarhólshellir (near Hveragerði). You pick one to visit as per the degree of challenge you want to face. For example, Leiðarendi is ideal for adventurers who like it when nature tackles with full force. This cave does not have any pathways or lights installed inside so you will have to crawl your way-out using flashlights and such. Víðgelmir , on the other hand, is ideal for those who prefer a bit of open space and less of a challenge.

• Lava Caving Tours in Iceland
• Best Lava Caves in Iceland

Northern Lights

Come December and Northern Lights once again begin to shine bright for the most of the night. There are plenty of ways in which you can enjoy the gorgeous view of the northern lights – from the areas which are near to the city you are staying at, using a rental car to drive to remote locations or by booking a northern lights tour . While the first option seems like the easiest way around the cause, it also has some disadvantages such as undeniable light pollution. The next option of taking a self-drive tour in a four-wheeler, such as super jeep, is a fairly good one given the fact that you have a thorough knowledge of the routes and the roads. If you would like to maximize your chances of seeing the northern lights, book a tour with a local guide and travel with a northern light expert.

• Northern Lights Tours in Iceland
• Northern Lights Guide in Iceland
• Best Northern Lights tours in Iceland
• Northern Lights in Reykjavik
• Best Conditions to see the Northern Lights in Iceland

Diving and Snorkeling in December

Diving is much enjoyed in the relatively hotter season but it is equally popular in the winters. The most popular site for diving and snorkeling in Iceland is Silfra fissure spring which is located between two tectonic plates, North America and Eurasian plates. The fissure is located in Þingvellir National Park , which is a part of the famous Golden Circle route. The water of the spring stays at a stagnant temperature of 2°C throughout the year. The water in the spring is filtered through the porous lava rocks which makes it crystal clear and makes the visibility up to 100 meters under the water.

• Snorkeling & Diving Tours in Iceland
• Travel Guide to Snorkeling & Diving in Iceland

Glacier Hiking in December

Glacier hiking is back in full swing in December. Most of the glaciers are covered in snow and open for hiking in December. Skaftafell Nature Reserve is one of the most popular places in Iceland for hiking for Skaftafellsjökull glacier. The difficulty level is medium and the view from atop is spectacular. Perfect to trigger the dormant adventurer inside of you, these beautiful glaciers covered in electric blue ice are perfect to experience the thrill of coming one-to-one with nature in its crude form. Glacier hikes can be enjoyed as a solo activity or they can be combined with other activities that are closely related like snowmobiling , ice caving , visiting glacier lagoons, etc.

• Travel Guide to Glacier Hiking in Iceland
• Glacier Hiking Tours in Iceland
• Hiking Tours in Iceland

Snowmobiling

There is no way that you should miss out on snowmobiling when you plan your trip to the glaciers in Iceland. The thrill of glazing about the snow usually lasts an hour or so but it is a sure shot that this will be one of the most enjoyable experiences of your trip to Iceland in December. You can take a snowmobile as your transporting vehicle to the glaciers when you go hiking or you can choose to enjoy the ride as a wholly separate activity depending on your preference. While the winter protective equipment is provided by the operators, make sure you are wearing the right kind of thermal layers underneath. Snowmobiles come with a designated driver although a valid driving license is required if you want to drive yourself.

• Snowmobile Tours in Iceland
• Travel Guide to Snowmobiling in Iceland
• Best Locations to Snowmobile in Iceland

Go Sightseeing in Super Jeeps

Locations like golden circle , Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon , Snæfellsnes Peninsula , and the South Coast are the best place to go sightseeing in Iceland in December. While some roads and routes are closed due to heavy snowfall and bad weather conditions, these places remain accessible to tourists and can be visited by most types of vehicles. There are various long-running tour packages directed solely for the viewing of the highlands as the roads to the highlands are closed during the high winter season. The most comfortable way to get around these destinations is by booking one such tour with a local tour company.

• Sightseeing Tours in Iceland

Imagine Peace Tower

Imagine Peace Tower is a tribute to John Lennon from his wife Yoko Ono. It features “peace” written on the bottom in 24 different languages representing the message of harmony and unity. The ceremony of lighting the Imagine Peace Tower takes place on October 9 th and is switched off on December 9 th (birth and death date of John Lennon, respectively). You can simply catch a ferry ride to Viðey Island to watch the 4000-meter-high beam of light in person. If you happen to visit Iceland in late December then you get a second chance to see the lighting of Imagine Peace Tower. It is relit on December 21 st , the day with the least number of daylight hours in the whole year, also known as Winter Solstice. The tower stays lit till the 31 st of December.

Visit the Blue Lagoon

After you are done with a trip to the glaciers for hiking , snowmobiling , horse riding , and ice caving , kicking back some fatigue while submerged in the soothing hot waters of the Blue Lagoon is the only thing to do. The soothing hot water combined with the contrasting chilly weather outside is the ideal mixture that represents Iceland as the land of fire and Ice. Gulf streams running towards the country make the natural underground water hot (and boiling at some places) which creates countless relaxing pools and lagoons all over the place.

• Tours to the Blue Lagoon
• Travel Guide to the Blue Lagoon

Árbæjarsafn Open Air Museum

Located in farmstead, Árbær, Árbæjarsafn Open Air Museum was built in 1957 to preserve the traditional heritage of Reykjavík. The open-air museum is a life-size portrayal of a historical village containing 20 different buildings. Visitors can observe the traditional church of Reykjavík, turf houses, and many other pre-historic attractions. The museum is situated right on the borders of Reykjavík and hence easily accessible to all travelers. While the Árbæjarsafn Open Air Museum represents the culture and tradition of Reykjavík, it is also well-equipped to present the holiday spirit in the traditional Icelandic ways. It features exhibitions on the ways prehistoric Icelanders from various backgrounds and families celebrated Christmas.

Best Day Tours to Take in Iceland in December

• South Coast & Northern Lights
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula
• Golden Circle & Snowmobile
• Glacier Lagoon Sightseeing
• Blue Lagoon & Northern Lights
• South Coast & Glacier Hike

December Festivals in Iceland

Yule lads’ visits.

Iceland has a hidden unique charm in all that it has and is. Whether the landscape, language, cuisine, or the festivals, Iceland strays a bit different from the rest of the world in every good way. One such eccentric attraction of this country is the Christmas folklore and traditions. Icelandic people celebrate the arrival of Yule Lads instead of Santa Claus, like the rest of the world. As the folklore goes, Yule Lads are the mischievous sons of the old evil ogress Gryla who find misbehaving kids and eat them. Yule Lads descend from their home in the mountains and visit the kids. The tradition has the Lads to leave small gifts for the good kids in their shoes that they leave outside their doors or hanging in the windows, while the mischievous ones get potatoes. Yule Lads’ visit lasts for 13 days and ends on the day of Christmas. It is one of the most awaited events of the year, especially by the children and wonderful decorations, and other preparations are made to welcome the Lads. The whole country is romanticized in the spirit of Jólin or Christmas.

Yule Lads’ Bath

Yule Lads is celebrated with the same kind of intensity as Santa Claus. The thirteen days preceding Christmas are the days of the Yule Lads. It is often said that the Yule Lads live in the mountains, but some people believe that Dimmuborgir lava fields is their home. Children often go out to Dimmuborgir near Lake Mývatn and take a dip in the Mývatn Nature Baths. Needless to mention, tourists are also welcome to join in the Icelandic Christmas spirit by visiting the Yule Lads and taking a bath with them in the lake.

Christmas Markets and Celebration

A white Christmas is not the only pleasure you will get if you spend it in Iceland. Icelandic Christmas is different from all, lasts longer than any other Christmas celebration in the world, and the preparations are all that more upscale and grander. Christmas trees are alight on the 4 th Sunday before Christmas all across the country. The Great Christmas Tree is lit in the capital city at Austurvöllur. It is one of the most popular Christmas events as it also features the surfacing of the first Yule Lad. Restaurants serve their famous Christmas buffets and bars host several concerts in the spirit of the festival. Shops and markets stay open till 10 p.m. from December 15 th to December 23 rd . The town of Hafnarfjörður in greater Reykjavík is the place that is completely submerged in the Christmas spirit and probably displays all the traditional Christmas events and ceremonies that there are. It is the ideal place to head to if you want a genuine experience of Iceland’s traditional Christmas.

St. Þorlákur's Day

Observed in the honor of St. Þorlákur Þórhallsson, Iceland’s one and only Patron Saint, St. Þorlákur’s Day is celebrated all across Iceland with much enthusiasm and positivity. Icelanders eat fermented Skate, a type of traditional fish dish with intense aromatic attributes. Cooked domestically in all households, the markets are packed till 11 pm by locals doing some last-minute shopping for the ingredients. You can easily spot this traditional dish being prepared in many restaurants. Order a serving and join in with the traditional celebrations with the locals.

New Year's Eve 10 km Run

Held by track and field club ÍR, New Year’s Eve 10 km run is one of the most popular sporting events of the year. Harpa concert hall is prepared to facilitate the racer and attend to all their needs before the race starts. Waves of people come and participate in the run and flaunt various costumes. The prizes are reserved for the best costumes among the runners. The race starts at Sæbraut near the Harpa concert halls and finishes at the same place after covering a long-stretched route towards the ocean to the east past the Sólfar sculpture. Anyone and everyone can join the race by simple online registration. Not only do you get to enjoy with the locals, relax in the majestic Harpa concert hall and enjoy the different landscapes, but this race also gives you an experience that is immeasurable in terms of thrill and excitement.

New Year’s Celebration

As the month approaches its end, Iceland prepares for New Year’s celebration on December 31 st . the capital city of Reykjavík is one of the liveliest places in the country during this time and is sure to give you a fair taste of New Year’s celebration. The evening of 31 st is filled with delicious food, banter, and laughter all across Iceland as people enjoy the night with family and friends. Locals come down to the street to watch the massive firework display let off unofficially by the citizens. While you can enjoy this from pretty much any place in Reykjavík, places like Hallgrímskirkja (a large church that overlooks the city) and Perlan are two of the best places to get a proper view of the fireworks.

• New Year’s Eve in Iceland

Best Multi Day Tours to Take in Iceland in December

• 2 Days South Coast & Northern Lights
• 3 Days South Coast, Golden Circle & Northern Lights
• 4 Days Snæfellsnes, Golden Circle & South Coast
• 5 Days Snæfellsnes, West, Golden Circle & South Coast
• 6 Days Around Iceland 
• 7 Days Around Iceland & Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Stack the Backpack – The List of Essentials

You need to be fully prepared for the challenges that may come your way in terms of weather and necessities when traveling away from home. Following is a complete list of essentials that you will need when traveling to Iceland in December.

• Waterproof and windproof winter pants and jackets
• Insulated jacket for extremely low temperatures
• Warm caps and hats
• Scarf, buff as neck shield against wind
• Windproof warm Gloves

Clothes to Layer Up:

• Thermal Innerwear to stay warm when out
• Fleece and woolen layers in the form of cardigans and sweaters
• Full-sleeved cotton shirts/t-shirts
• Comfortable warmers or leggings
• Jeans/Pants for festivals and concerts
• Waterproof hiking boots
• Casual, walking and sport shoes
• Heavy warm socks

Additional Important Picks

• Moisturizer
• Toiletries – like soap, shampoo, bath towels, quick-drying towels, etc.
• Phones, chargers, power banks, batteries, flashlights, and travel adapters
• Rain cover and windshield for eyes
• Camera and required gear
• Prescription medicines and Over the Counter Medicines for the trip

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Iceland in December – Things to Know Before Your Trip

• Last Updated: December 9, 2022
• Norbert Zohó

In December, Iceland is a perfect paradise for fans of wintertime. The combination of awe-inspiring scenery, exciting activities, chilly climate, and seasonal cheer definitely make up the ingredients needed for an unforgettable vacation. If you’re planning to visit Iceland in the month of December, we’ve put together lots of handy tips and information to make your trip absolutely amazing. 

Reasons Why Iceland Is Worth Visiting in December

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There are many reasons why December is a fabulous time to discover Iceland’s many delights. 

December is the country’s darkest month, with just a few hours of daylight each day. You’d be wrong to think, though, that the darkness makes the winter bleak … there’s a great chance of spotting the magnificent Northern Lights in the darker months! 

With Christmas just around the corner, festive magic is found all throughout the country. The capital of Reykjavik is particularly enchanting, with an abundance of Christmas lights and decorations. There’s certainly plenty of seasonal joy to experience! Many Icelanders try to make their homes bright and cheery and the first Yule Lad makes an appearance in the middle of the month. Yule Lads traverse the streets in the following 12 days leading up to Christmas Day, with young children hopefully placing their shoes in their windows, wishing for a special treat. 

Come New Year, fireworks burst and bang, illuminating the skies in a riot of dazzling colors to bid farewell to the previous year and herald in the next. 

Weather-wise, December is one of the best times of year to marvel at beautiful mountains topped with gleaming snow and glistening icicles hanging from ethereal waterfalls. The winter months are also the only times when you can venture into a natural ice cave in Iceland.  

Despite the wintry allure, Iceland sees relatively few tourists during December. This means that those who do plan a winter vacation to the Land of Fire and Ice can explore the cities and nature without the large crowds that summer usually sees. That said, the Christmas and New Year period is popular with travelers. Hotels and flights usually increase in price and can book out fast. Make Christmas/New Year reservations as far in advance as possible, and also consider even reserving tables in restaurants to avoid disappointment. 

Winter temperatures in Iceland typically hover around freezing, ranging somewhere between -1° and 4°C (34°F and 39°F). Furthermore, December is one of the wettest months in Iceland, with an average rainfall of 97 mm (3.8″).   

Snow is pretty common in December, although you’re unlikely to experience a thick blanket of white in the capital; Reykjavik has a higher temperature than other parts of the nation and usually only experiences heavy snow cover from time to time from January to April. 

As well as being cold and wet, Iceland is also very windy throughout December. Strong, biting winds howl along the streets and around the corners.

You should make sure to pack appropriately for the winter weather conditions for a December holiday in Iceland. Always wear warm clothes in layers along with sturdy footwear. Don’t forget to accessorize too—hats, scarves, gloves, and earmuffs can make a world of difference! Thermal undergarments and wind-and water-proof outer layers will also help to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable. 

You can easily keep up to date with local weather conditions via the website of the Icelandic Meteorological Office . Check all your planned routes in advance too, in case of road closures, hazards, or obstructions. For example, it can be extremely dangerous and windy along the coastal stretches of Route 1, and other roads may experience avalanches. Be prepared to be flexible with your routes and plans.

Iceland’s high altitude means that winter days see less and less light. December is the country’s darkest month. The longest day in December, which falls in the middle of the month, has a maximum of five hours of sunlight. Sunrise occurs at around 11 am, with sunset taking place just a few hours later between 3 and 4 pm.

The darkness, coldness, and wetness can be pretty gloomy and disheartening. Combat the winter slump like locals and try to stick to a fixed schedule when it comes to waking up in the morning and going to bed each evening. The beautiful lights (both of Christmas and the natural Aurora) are sure to keep you in good spirits, though!  

How to Travel Around in Iceland in December

Firstly, think about your preferred mode of transportation for exploring Iceland in the winter. Guided tours and rental cars are the most popular options, but you may also wish to consider renting a car with a driver. 

Hiking and cycling around Iceland in the winter are not recommended; road conditions can be dangerous and the weather can be unpredictable. 

Lots of visitors use Reykjavik as a base and discover Iceland by day trips. In the winter, this is a great way to explore the nation’s beauty without needing to drive yourself. Plus, you can always return to your same cozy and comfortable accommodation every evening. You can access most of Iceland’s headline attractions on day trips, with the south and west especially recommended.

We’ve listed some of the top day trips from Reykjavik to give you plenty of inspiration for your winter getaway.

If you dream of exploring Iceland independently, a customized self-drive holiday is a great idea. All of the necessary bookings, such as hire car and accommodations, are taken care of for you, but you can still enjoy the freedom and flexibility of driving yourself around the country. Self-drive travel is rapidly gaining popularity among tourists.

Do check road and weather conditions each day before setting off on your journey.

Our winter self-drive holidays are a terrific way to discover Iceland under your own steam.

When driving yourself around in Iceland during December, or the winter months in general, do keep in mind the shorter hours of daylight. It would be a shame for you to miscalculate and arrive at a hotspot after the sun has gone down. 

Update yourself regularly with the daily weather conditions too and plan your day accordingly. It’s also wise to check road.is regularly for updates on the road conditions.  

You should expect all kinds of weather in Iceland over the winter. And, remember that the weather can quickly change from one second to the next. Rent a vehicle that is equipped to deal with wintry conditions; roads can be icy, snowy, and slippery, particularly outside of major urban areas.  

Always stick to the speed limit—it’s there for the safety of all road users—and keep plenty of space between you and other vehicles. Look ahead and always err on the side of caution.

Things to see and do in Iceland in December

Although it’s cold and lots of Iceland’s roads may be inaccessible, December still offers plenty of terrific things to see and do. Reykjavik is bursting with seasonal fun and entertainment in the build-up to Christmas. Additionally, there are many tours into the countryside too.

These are some of the highlights to look forward to on a December vacation to Iceland:

Around the winter equinox, Iceland has just four hours of daylight each day. With some 20 hours of darkness, this is a terrific time to go hunting for the magical Aurora Borealis. When it’s dark, there are just two other conditions necessary for spotting the lights: clear skies with no cloud cover and high levels of solar activity. When these conditions are met, there’s a good chance of seeing the spectacular natural phenomenon.  

  In this article , you can read about how you can maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights when visiting Iceland.

There are many places that offer awesome sightseeing opportunities in December, as well as at other times of the year. You can enjoy the always-popular Golden Circle route , complete with top natural sights such as Gulfoss Waterfall, Thingvellir National Park, and the geothermal wonders of Geysir. You could also experience the incredible beauty of the south coast and Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Furthermore, the gorgeous Reykjanes Peninsula and Snæfellsnes Peninsula are both typically accessible in December. 

It’s generally not possible to access the highlands unless joining a day trip to Landmannalaugar. Tours use Super Jeeps to conquer the thick snow that blankets the roads, and experienced drivers can navigate the roads even when the signposts are completely covered.      

Glacier hiking is a cool winter adventure, offering splendid vistas and a sense of achievement. Professional guides ensure safety and also provide tons of interesting information about the glaciers, such as how they were formed and how they may become extinct in the future. 

It’s relatively easy to hike both Sólheimajökull and Skaftafellsjökull during December. Both lie along the South Coast. Sólheimajökull is an outlet of the gigantic Mýrdalsjökull Glacier and Skaftafellsjökull is part of Skaftafell Nature Reserve. Both offer unbeatable views and lots of adventure and excitement.   

Going snowmobiling on a glacier is certainly among the most exciting things you can do on any winter trip to Iceland. There are several glorious ice caps where you can feel the adrenaline rush as you whizz about at speed, all without needing to break into much of a sweat. Simply flick your wrist and you’re off! 

It’s definitely a thrilling and unique experience, as you race across the ice with the wind whipping through your hair, the sound of the roaring motor in your ears, and the achingly scenic vistas all around you.

There are three particularly popular destinations for glacial snowmobiling in Iceland: Vatnajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Langjökull. If you opt to visit the latter ice cap (Langjökull) you can also combine a trip around the stunning Golden Circle sightseeing route.   

Tunnels form under glaciers in the winter months, created by flowing water. Visitors can step inside a wondrous ice cap for a truly unique and memorable experience. Three Icelandic glaciers open up to visitors in December: Vatnajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and at Skaftafell Nature Reserve.

Vatnajökull is the biggest glacier in all of Europe. It’s an incredibly popular wintertime destination because of the many scenic splendors close to hand. 

Mýrdalsjökull is the closest option to the capital. You can step inside a fascinating ice cave within the magnificent ice cap that covers Katla, one of the nation’s most active volcanoes. 

In the winter, Skaftafell Nature Reserve boasts striking bright blue ice, a marked change from its usual colors of white and black (from the snow and ash). It’s also just a short hike to reach the marvelous glaciers once you enter the sublime nature reserve.     

It’s important to always remember that, as natural features, there are sometimes risks associated with exploring ice caves in Iceland. The caves usually flood after heavy rains, for example, which can change the structure and strength thus making them unsafe for visitors. You should only enter ice caves with an experienced and professional guide as part of an official tour group.    

Although lava caving is possible at all times of the year , there’s something extra special when visiting the stunning lava caverns in the winter. Water seeps through the porous rocks and, in the colder temperatures, freezes to create eye-catching ice formations. Frozen stalagmites and stalactites help to create a magical subterranean winter wonderland that inspires plenty of awe. 

There are three lava caves in particular that are the easiest to access in December (as well as at other times of the year): Leiðarendi (on the Reykjanes Peninsula), Víðgelmir (part of the Hallmundarhraun lava field), and Raufarhólshellir (near Hveragerði). Each offers plenty of natural beauty, adventure, and amazing photo opportunities. 

While lava caving is not generally dangerous, it’s still important to have all necessary equipment, including a helmet, torch, and crampons. You should also be sure to dress appropriately and wear sturdy footwear. You’ll also need to visit Iceland’s lava caves with an experienced guide. 

Although you can enjoy snorkeling and diving in many places around the planet, Iceland is the only place across the world where you can experience the wonder of water sports in the chasm between two mighty tectonic plates. It’s definitely a truly unique adventure!

The Silfra Fissure is a natural gap between the Eurasian and North American continental plates. The divide is filled with fresh glacial run-off water from the Langjökull Glacier. The visibility in the clear water is amazing, and it’s no surprise that underwater enthusiasts travel here from far and wide to experience the dazzling natural beauty. 

You may think that the winter months would be too cold to snorkel and dive in Iceland … thankfully, though, that’s not true!

As well as being filtered as it passes through the lava fields, the clear water maintains a temperature of two degrees Centigrade at all times; the water doesn’t freeze until it reaches Þingvallavatn Lake. 

Don your wet or drysuits, depending on your preference, get kitted out, and enjoy one of the world’s most magnificent watery sites with your experienced scuba instructors. Be awe-struck by the vast underwater spaces and shimmering blue waters. Plus, you’ll gain the bragging rights of having taken to the chilly Icelandic waters in the middle of winter! 

Huge trucks probably aren’t the first things that spring to mind when you think about Iceland. However, super jeeps , complete with gigantic tires, are becoming more and more popular in Iceland. As well as offering one of the safest ways to drive in the ice and snow, super jeeps also open up parts of the country that would be inaccessible in a regular car during the winter.

Head into the picture-perfect Icelandic countryside, visit magnificent glaciers and discover remote parts of the sublime Icelandic Highlands. 

While you can rent a super jeep for a self-drive tour, many people find the thought of handling such a beast rather off-putting. If you fall into this camp, don’t worry! There’s no need to miss out; you can join an organized tour to a variety of destinations, with expert drivers and guides.  

Recommended Things to Do in Reykjavík in December

There are plenty of Christmas markets around Iceland during December to put you right in the festive spirit. Just outside of Reykjavik, the yearly Christmas market at Heidmork Nature Reserve is a terrific way to immerse yourself in the local culture and get a glimpse of Christmas Icelandic style. The wooded location helps to set the scene, and you may even see the Icelandic Yule Lads dancing around the Christmas tree. Stalls boast an array of festive offerings, from locally made handicrafts, decorations, and unique gifts to delicious food and traditional clothing. Pop into the cafe for a bit to eat and enjoy the jovial live music. 

Reykjavik is home to many cool cafes, perfect for taking a rest at any time of year. The cafes are, however, particularly enticing in December, providing an opportunity for people to come inside out of the cold and relax with a steaming warm beverage and maybe even a sweet treat. You won’t find any large chain cafes in the capital; rather, you’ll find a host of charming locally run establishments offering a warm Icelandic welcome. Could there be a better way to casually hang out with friends? Check out our list of the top cozy cafes in Reykjavik to help you choose which one(s) to add to your wish list. 

Iceland is home to many incredible musicians. In December, many put on hugely popular concerts and shows. Join the locals for a lively evening out and experience music the Icelandic way. You’ll find performances in every type of venue, from concert halls to local pubs. If choral performances are more up your street look out for the many choir concerts for plenty of Christmassy vibes.  

The curious Yule Lads are among Iceland’s coolest Christmas traditions. There are 13 folkloric Yule Lads in total. The creatures come from local mythology, said to come down from the mountains each December to commemorate Advent. It’s said that they visit one by one over the last 13 nights before Christmas. Youngsters are especially excited by their arrival, as they are believed to leave small gifts inside shoes that kids place hopefully on their window ledges. 

Since 2010 the capital city has celebrated the nation’s storytelling traditions by including the Yule Lads among the city’s festive decor. Dress up warm and set out for a wander around the city center to spot the 13 holographic figures spread throughout the streets. They’re often hidden in plain sight, adorning buildings and windows. 

Reykjavik is the top place in Iceland for shopping all year round, and you’ll find plenty of terrific gifts and souvenirs to take home for yourself and your loved ones. From clothing and local handicrafts to nicknacks and edible goodies, the shops are sure to tempt you in out of the cold for some retail therapy. Even window shopping is a joy in December, as many stores feature colorful Christmas decorations in their windows. As an even bigger incentive to shop till you drop, the opening hours are even longer during December! 

Thorlaksmessa, or Saint Thorlak’s Day, falls on the 23rd of December each year. St. Thorlakur was both a revered bishop and an archivist, who looked after important Icelandic Christian texts. Canonized in 1984, locals celebrate the late bishop with merriment. Now an important part of the local festive traditions, it’s common for families and friends to meet up for a meal. Many also make the most of the cold conditions and go skating. The 23rd is also the final day of Christmas preparations, so it’s normal to see people downtown doing their last few bits of Christmas shopping, and meeting friends for pre-Christmas drinks and revelry.  

Across the globe, eating plays a big part of Christmas celebrations. And Iceland is no exception. Traditionally, Icelanders feast on kæst skata, or rotten stingray. Don’t let the name put you off though; it truly is tasty, albeit unusual! 

After rotting and fermenting, the skate has a strong smell that’s rather like ammonia. The odor clings to everything, even your hair and clothing. But, you should definitely dine like a local if you get the opportunity!

The tradition started many years ago, rooted in the fact that locals needed some way to preserve ingredients. Nowadays it’s still a time-honored custom to dine on skate while indulging in shots of snaps, AKA black death vodka. The rotten fish is typically dished up with potatoes, rye bread, and butter.

It might sound a bit counterproductive, but one of the best ways to warm up on a chilly December day in Iceland is to plunge into one of the nation’s swimming pools. 

You’ll find both indoor and outdoor pools, though all are pleasantly heated to warm your bones as soon as you enter the soothing water. Most pools also have a sauna and a hot tub for even more warming bliss. In fact, Icelandic pools are more akin to a luxurious spa than what you probably think of when you imagine a communal swimming facility.   

If you want to spend time in nature, check out the delightful geothermal waters near Reykjavik Beach. Alternatively, if you simply want to soothe your feet, the small foot bath of Kvika, near Grotta Lighthouse, is perfect. 

Reykjavik’s ice skating rink is one of the city’s most popular December attractions, drawing many locals and visitors alike. Located at Ingolfstorg Square in the city center, each winter the area is transformed into an amazing wintry wonderland, with twinkling lights and festive decorations. Strap on your skates and have some fun!   

When planning your packing list for a December vacation in Iceland, there’s one main thing to remember: layers! And, warm layers at that. Of course, you need to plan for cold conditions. But keep in mind also that the conditions can vary quite a lot in December. You can also encounter different weather in different locations. Be prepared! While roaming around the city is easy to deal with (you can always step inside shops and cafes to warm up), you’ll need to pack extra warm clothes if you’re planning to enjoy outdoor activities, such as hunting for the Northern Lights, glacier hiking, or ice caving. Crampons are also really useful for walking along ice-covered roads and streets, as well as when exploring ice caves.

This is what we recommend packing for your December getaway in Iceland:

• Warm winter pants
• Warm winter jacket
• Warm sweater (though you can always purchase one locally too)
• Waterproof hiking footwear
• Bathing suit and towel
• Camera (essential!) 

You may also want to bring a spare pair of shoes to leave in your window in case the Yule Lads come calling!    

Events and Festivals in Iceland in December

It’s no secret that Icelanders love a good celebration; there are cool events almost every month of the year! December’s line-up is, however, exceptional, with the run-up to Christmas seeing even more celebrations and festive events, many steeped in rich traditions and culture.

Here are some of the best festivals and events to experience during December in Iceland: 

Located just a 20-minute drive from the heart of the capital, Heiðmörk hosts a fabulous Christmas market each year. Set in a woodland area, the market opens each weekend from the 25th of November up until Christmas. As well as a great selection of goods to browse and buy, the market also boasts live music, food and drink, festive decor, and plenty of seasonal cheer. Many people come here to buy their Christmas tree, and you’ll likely also spot the 13 Yule Lads. A great place to enjoy fine Icelandic Christmas customs, younger guests are often particularly enthralled by the Christmas stories. If you’re there around 2pm you’ll see a small bonfire too.  

Situated in the heart of the city, the star of Yule Town is definitely the lively ice skating rink. You can hire ice skates for a glide across the ice and the ambiance is super festive, thanks to Christmas music and seasonal decor. Open between the middle of December up until Christmas, Yule Town also features a terrific Christmas market, complete with handicrafts, trinkets, decorations, and delicious food.  

The quaint Christmas market at Hafnarfjörður (a charming port town south of Reykjavik) features a market each weekend during the month before Christmas. A Christmas tree stands proudly, decked out with colorful lights, and you can pay a visit to Santa Claus and his helpful elves. The cute Christmas houses are often a hit too. Of course, you can also pick up an array of awesome Christmas goods, arts, and crafts.  

A great idea for people visiting Iceland with kids, the Children’s Christmas Workshop is held at Reykjavík City Hall between early December and early January. Youngsters typically love exploring the enchanting Christmas Cave, and the whole family can have fun making their own unique Christmas decorations. 

Sample the finest Icelandic Christmas fare at Jólakrás Street Food Christmas Market, held over the last weekend before Christmas. The opening hours are from 1pm to 7pm and the market takes place at Fótgetagarðurinn (by Aðalstræti) right in the center of Reykjavík. A great place for a festive lunch or dinner, as well as to soak up the atmosphere, many of Reykjavik’s best restaurants collaborate to offer fabulous fine-dining street food with both plenty of traditional favorites and mouth-watering signature dishes.    

It’s said that the 13 Icelandic Yule Lads only bathe one time a year, and the chosen spot for the annual dip is Mývatn Nature Baths in the north of the nation. You can join them for fun in the water, although don’t be surprised if the Christmas characters appear to be a bit irritable; they dislike water! Local vendors also attend, laden with hand-made crafts and other goods. The Yule bath takes place two weeks before Christmas at around 5pm.  

In common with almost every other Christian country, Iceland celebrates Christmas Eve. Typically shops and other businesses close at around midday so that people can get together with their families to swap gifts and enjoy tasty food. The official start of Christmas is heralded by the sound of bells ringing throughout the city’s churches, including the striking Hallgrímskirkja.

Jólabókaflóð is a long-time Christmas Eve tradition in Iceland. The name translates as Christmas Book Flood. It’s customary for people to gift books to their nearest and dearest to read on the night before Christmas. The tradition stems back to World War II, when there were many restrictions on importing foreign goods. While the paper was inexpensive in Iceland, the relatively small population meant it wasn’t feasible to maintain a publishing industry all year round. The lack of other Christmas gifts led to local publishers printing many books in the run-up to Christmas; they flooded the market! 

Christmas Day is a big affair in Iceland, with influences both from Christianity and age-old folklore. An ancient legend provides that any Icelander who doesn’t receive a new garment of clothing for Christmas will be eaten by the gigantic black Christmas Cat! Although today taken mostly in jest, it’s still common for most Icelandic people to get at least a few new clothes at Christmas. 

When it comes to mealtimes, popular festive dishes include rjúpa (rock ptarmigan) and hamborgarhryggur (glazed rack of ham). While hangikjöt (smoked lamb) has been the usual Christmas meat for hundreds of years, roast turkey is also becoming popular in modern times.

With more tourists visiting Iceland over Christmas, it’s becoming more common for hotel restaurants to remain open. However, other amenities and services, such as museums, public transportation, shops, swimming pools, and attractions, are generally closed.      

Boxing Day, or the day after Christmas, is another big holiday. People typically spend the day with family and rest after all the Christmas excitement. Some people, though, have to return to work, and there are more public services available than on Christmas Day itself. 

There are many firework displays around Iceland, particularly in the capital, for New Year’s Eve. They aren’t funded by the city; rather, locals organize the fabulous displays themselves. Locals buy fireworks from ICE-SAR, the national Search and Rescue Team, which sells the fireworks to help raise important funds. 

There are many spots around the city from where you can get great views of the displays, with Hallgrímskirkja being one of the best. Local firework displays usually start at around 10.30 pm, continuing up until the clock strikes 12. 

Don’t plan on seeing the Northern Lights for New Year when in the capital; the combination of smoke and bright flashes from the fireworks renders them almost invisible.    

The final day of the year is marked with the yearly New Year’s Eve 10K Run, which is a great way to run off some Christmas indulgences and get the blood pumping in preparation for the nighttime celebrations. Some runners don fun costumes, with some bordering on the outlandish. Frilly tu-tus, Santa outfits, cartoon characters, superheroes, and retro disco gear are just a few examples. It’s certainly a sight to behold as they run along Iceland’s dramatic roads! 

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Iceland in December: Christmas in the Land of Fire and Ice

Iceland becomes a winter wonderland in December. Black sand beaches coated in a light layer of snow, frozen waterfalls, and pop-up blizzards may all make an appearance on your trip.

Visitors willing to brave the cold will be well rewarded with the chance to see Iceland’s stunning landscapes encased in ice and snow. They’ll also likely have all the major sites to themselves. Another factor to contend with for December in Iceland is that the country comes alive with Christmas festivities!

This is everything you need to know about visiting Iceland in December.

What is the weather in Iceland in December?

December is the heart of winter in Iceland. Believe it or not, this is the snowiest, darkest month of the entire year.With over 20 inches of snow on average and yet, still almost 3 inches of rain, you can imagine that things get a little dicey when it comes to the weather.

Embrace the Chill

The cold is a part of the Icelandic experience in December. While it might be chilly, the frost-covered landscapes provide a unique, picturesque view that you won’t find during other times of the year.

Temperatures only reach a high of 37°F (2.7°C) and a low of 28°F (-2.2°C), but can plummet even further depending on the weather. Sunlight maxes out at just four hours a day in December with the sun rising in Reykjavik at 11:00 am and setting between 4:00 and 5:00 pm (14:00 and 15:00). In general, December in Iceland have the shortest days of the year in Iceland.

Driving conditions will begin to be treacherous on some roads. It’s recommended to rent a 4×4 vehicle and to put snow chains on your tires if you plan on driving far.

What to Wear in Iceland in December

December in Iceland is downright frigid. You’ll need to pack accordingly to stay toasty warm for a trip during this month.

All the winter essentials like a hat, gloves, and scarf are must haves. Waterproof, insulated coats that extend down to your knees are ideal for keeping the biting wind at bay.

Layering is crucial when visiting Iceland in December. Consider packing a mix of merino wool and synthetic clothing. These materials are not only warm but also quick drying which is a bonus in the damp weather.

As far as shoes go you’ll need waterproof, preferably insulated boots. Even in Reykjavik, the snow can pile up and normal tennis shoes simply won’t cut it. Also consider bringing along a thermal base layer, ideal for keeping your core body in.

Can you see the northern lights in Iceland in December?

Can you see the northern lights in Iceland in December? Absolutely!

December is one of the best months for viewing the northern lights. While witnessing this verdant blazes of light dance across the sky is subject to solar activity and weather conditions, December’s darkness brings about excellent conditions for seeing the aurora borealis. Cold weather often means clear skies, at least while the snow holds off. Pair this with a location far from light pollution and you just might see them dancing above your head.

Tip: Booking a guided Northern Lights tour can increase your chances of a sighting. Local experts know the best locations and times to catch this spectacular phenomenon.

Best Things to Do in Iceland in December

On first glance December might seem like a bad time to visit the Land of Fire and Ice. Snow starts to cover the streets and darkness seems to engulf this small island country. What most visitors don’t realize is that life doesn’t stop in Iceland because of the cold!

Here are some of the best things to do in Iceland in December.

1. Christmas in Iceland

December is a time of celebration in Iceland as the Christmas season begins. Reykjavik, the country’s capital, becomes a shimmering beacon with Christmas lights adorning the streets, houses, and public spaces, creating a magical ambiance that can captivate anyone.

Reykjavik comes alive with Christmas festivities like their Christmas Markets, which are a treasure trove of handcrafted goods, festive treats, and the aroma of mulled wine. Delicious Christmas Buffets offer an array of traditional Icelandic dishes, providing visitors an opportunity to indulge in local culinary delights.

Yet, the celebrations don’t just stop at Christmas. As December draws to a close, Icelanders eagerly await New Year’s Eve. This night is marked by an astounding display of fireworks, especially in Reykjavik. Almost every Icelander lights up the sky with fireworks, turning the city into a mesmerizing display of colors. After the fireworks, families and friends gather to enjoy the first morning of the New Year together, often sharing stories, laughter, and hopes for the year ahead.

And it wouldn’t be Iceland if trolls didn’t make an appearance for the holiday season. Keep your eyes peeled for the mischievous Yule Lads who are said to cause mayhem around town starting on December 11th. These 13 cheeky troll brothers each have their distinct personalities, and children eagerly await their antics.

As you stroll through the streets, the twinkling Christmas lights, the warmth of the Icelandic people, and the festive atmosphere make December an enchanting time to visit. Be sure to call out“ Gledileg jol! ”, which means ‘Merry Christmas’, to passersby during this festive time of year.

2. Glacier Hiking & Ice Caves

Winter in Iceland might get a bad rap for having wild weather but it’s the only time of year you can experience the country’s ice caves! Hike down into a slit in a nearby glacier to reveal a snowglobe of aqua colored icy caverns, carved by glacial streams during the summer months.

If you’d rather experience the glacier without going subterranean you can also add a glacier trek to your itinerary, only possible with a guide. With crampons and ice axes in hand, you’ll have an incredible time picking your way across the Icelandic landscape.

3. Road Trip Route 1

Iceland’s Route 1 is a circular loop around the country and the perfect road trip for those who rent their own set of wheels. Many of the popular attractions will be virtually deserted in the winter months. With only a few hours of daylight, hiring a rental car also means that you’ll have the ability to see as many sights as possible within a small window of time.

The entirety of the Ring Road can be driven in 17 hours but you’ll want to plan for at least a week if you intend to circumnavigate the entire island.

Limited daylight hours and intense winter weather means that driving around Iceland in December isn’t for the faint of heart. While it’s entirely possible to do so, you’ll need a 4×4 vehicle as well as snow chains for added safety. Keep up to date on Iceland’s weather conditions and road closures on their official website.

4. Relax in a Geothermal hot springs

After a chilly day of exploring, Iceland offers a plethora of rejuvenating geothermal experiences to warm you up. One of the most iconic and sought-after destinations is the Blue Lagoon. Nestled between Keflavik Airport and Reykjavik, this geothermal spa is renowned for its milky-blue waters, rich in minerals like silica and sulfur. Not only is it a perfect retreat for relaxation, but the mineral-rich waters are known to have healing properties, especially beneficial for the skin.

However, if you’re looking to experience geothermal waters more like a local, then Reykjavik and other towns have numerous local swimming pools. Often heated with geothermal energy, these pools are not just for exercise but are a central part of Icelandic culture, a place where people come to socialize, relax, and unwind. Unlike the Blue Lagoon, these pools offer a more authentic experience, allowing you to mingle with locals and understand their way of life. Whether it’s taking a dip in an outdoor heated pool while snowflakes gently descend from the sky or chatting with residents in a steamy hot tub, these local pools offer a unique and memorable Icelandic experience.

So, whether you opt for the luxurious ambiance of the Blue Lagoon or the local charm of community swimming pools, Iceland’s geothermal waters are sure to provide a soothing antidote to the December cold.

5 Explore the Golden Circle

One of the most iconic and recommended activities when visiting Iceland, especially in December, is exploring the Golden Circle. This popular route offers a spectacular showcase of the country’s natural wonders and geological marvels, all within a day’s drive from Reykjavik.

The first stop typically is Thingvellir National Park, one of Iceland’s most significant national parks both historically and geographically. Not only is it the birthplace of the Icelandic parliament (established in 930 AD), but it’s also where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. During December, the snow-covered landscapes of Thingvellir provide a picturesque setting, turning the park into a winter wonderland.

Next, travelers can marvel at the power and beauty of Gullfoss Waterfall. In the colder months, parts of this majestic waterfall might be frozen, giving it a unique, icy charm. The roaring waters cascading down the two-tiered falls with the surrounding snow creates a stark contrast and is truly a sight to behold.

The Golden Circle also features geothermal areas with bubbling mud pools and erupting geysers, offering a surreal experience against the backdrop of the December chill.

Embarking on a journey through the Golden Circle in December provides a unique perspective of these sites, as the snow and ice transform them into enchanting winter scenes. Plus, with fewer tourists during this time, you can enjoy a more serene and personal experience.

Iceland in December self-drive travel guide

Overall, December is a great time to visit Iceland. Christmas cheer is in the air and festivities are taking place and Iceland has thoroughly transformed into a winter wonderland. There’s no better way to see Iceland, even in December, than by renting a car.

Not only will it afford you the freedom to utilize your few hours of daylight wisely but it can also be a great way to chase the northern lights. Book your rental car with Firefly Iceland Car Rentals for the best rates in the country.

Don’t forget to plan Ahead!

If you’re considering a self-drive trip, planning your routes in advance and checking daily weather and road conditions is crucial. While the freedom of a road trip is exhilarating, Iceland’s winter weather can be unpredictable, so safety should always be a top priority.

Best cheap rental car to travel Iceland in December

Dacia Duster or similar | Manual | 4×4 | 2020-2021 (CFMX)

Group e2 reservations are made by car category only. we cannot guarantee a specific car model. or similar.

• 5 Passengers
• Airconditioning

Suitable for the highland F-roads. Please read Terms & Conditions. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features

• 4 Wheel Drive
• 116 C0 2  g/km
• Adjustable Steering
• Electronic Stability Control
• Power Steering
• Power Windows
• Remote Locking

VW Tiguan or similar | Automatic | 4×4 | 2020-2021 Model (IFAX)

Group: o reservations are made by car category only. we cannot guarantee a specific car model. or similar, dacia duster or similar |manual| 4×4 (cfmn) -2022-2024 new model, group e2 reservations are made by car category only. we cannot guarantee a specific car model..

Suzuki Vitara or similar|Manual| 4×4 (IFMN) | 2022-2024 New Model

Group f reservations are made by car category only. we cannot guarantee a specific car model. or similar.

• Cruise Control

Kia Sorento or similar | Automatic | 4×4 (SFAN) | 2022-2024 New Model

Group: o2 reservations are made by car category only. we cannot guarantee a specific car model..

• 164 C0 2  g/km

Mitsubishi Pajero or similar | Automatic| 4×4 (FFAR) | 2022-2024 New Model

Group: i reservations are made by car category only. we cannot guarantee a specific car model. or similar.

• 213 C0 2  g/km

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Best December Tours in Iceland

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Amazing 5-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package in Iceland with Ice Caving & the Blue Lagoon

Best Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull Glacier Starting from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Best 7-Day Northern Lights Self Drive Tour Through South Iceland to Jokulsarlon Ice Cave

Affordable 3 Hour Northern Lights Bus Tour with Transfer from Reykjavík

3-Day Northern Lights Tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle & South Coast with Ice Caving & Glacier Hiking

Small-Group 8-Hour Golden Circle Minibus Tour with Bruarfoss Waterfall & Kerid Crater from Reykjavik

2 Day Ice Cave Tour with South Coast Waterfalls & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Quick Blue Lagoon Shuttle Bus Transfer from Reykjavik

Breathtaking 6-Day Northern Lights Hunting Package of Iceland with Ice Caving

Northern Lights Super Jeep Tour with a Photographer Guide & Transfer from Reykjavik

Northern Lights Bus Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Flybus Transfer from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik

The Reykjavik Whale Watching Tour

Skaftafell Glacier Hiking Tour on Vatnajokull

Flybus Transfer from Reykjavik Hotels to Keflavik International Airport

Golden Circle Small Group Minibus Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Snowmobile Tour on Langjokull Glacier with Transfer from Gullfoss Waterfall

The Golden Circle & the Blue Lagoon Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Small Group Tour of Snaefellsnes Peninsula with Transfer from Reykjavik

Small Group 10 Hour South Coast Tour with Waterfalls & Reynisfjara with Transfer from Reykjavik

8-Day Guided Northern Lights Winter Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland

Excellent 2.5 Hour Horse Riding Tour of the Volcanic Raudholar Countryside & Transfer from Reykjavik

Affordable Blue Lagoon Transportation from Keflavik Airport

Snorkeling Tour Between Continents in Silfra with Free Underwater Photos & Snacks

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Vacation Packages in Iceland

Self drive tours in iceland, tour calendar, nature tours in iceland, adventure tours in iceland, cheap bus tours in iceland, top tour destinations in iceland, verified customer reviews.

Read first-hand reviews by customers from across the world

Pyeseghl Aurelio

Great Golden Circle tour with a knowledgeable tour guide. The Northern Lights tour guide was very enthusiastic about the phenomenon and you could tell from the way he talked about it. Unfortunately, we only saw a small trail during our time there, which lasted roughly 4 hours. The lead guide was trying to see if we could chase another sighting on the way back to Reykjavik but we ended up heading straight back. The effort that the guides took into to ensure possible sightings was admirable and definitely a stark change from another tour that we went on the previous night. Whilst the offer of rebooking the tour was there, unfortunately we were leaving the next day so were unable to try again during the trip. However, the enthusiasm the guides experienced and the fact that they did try to go to another site to ensure a sighting is why next time I shall book with the same company (Grey Line Iceland) .

Our tour guide is wonderful. I really appreciate his work.

Phoebe Cheuk

The guide Romeo was friendly. He prepared hot chocolate and fire in cold weather. The places he chosen for seeing the northern lights are perfect. It is important to wear warm clothes and gloves because your feet and hands will be freezing outdoors at cold night !

Had an absolutely wonderful time on this tour! We traveled to Iceland while a volcano was going off close-ish to the airport, so everyone else that had booked the tour ended up canceling. For us, that meant a private tour where Anton (our amazing guide) was able to show us a few spots on the path that there is usually no time for. And even with those additions, we still arrived back early where he gave us an option of driving the slower route through Reykjavik while he gave us an additional mini-tour of the city. We accepted! Anton did warn us of a sickness that tourists get which compels them to return to Iceland soon after leaving. We can confirm this is true!

Visiting Iceland in December

December in Iceland is a month of stark contrasts and unique beauty, where the winter chill is offset by the warmth of holiday festivities and the breathtaking natural scenery. With only a few hours of daylight, the landscapes are often illuminated in a twilight glow, providing a mystical backdrop for all outdoor adventures.

It's a time when the northern lights can frequently be seen, weather permitting, offering a celestial display that draws visitors from around the world. Despite the cold, the geothermal pools scattered across the country provide a steamy oasis that visitors can enjoy, even in the heart of winter.

Traveling to Iceland during this time presents an opportunity to witness the island's winter transformation. Snow and ice add an extra layer of beauty to Iceland's already dramatic waterfalls, mountains, and lava fields.

The limited daylight hours encourage a slower pace of travel, making it a perfect time for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture and relax amidst the stunning scenery.

Cultural experiences abound in December, from Christmas markets and concerts to the New Year's Eve celebrations that light up the sky. The holiday season brings a cozy, festive atmosphere to the cities and towns with twinkling lights and decorations. Traditional Icelandic Christmas foods and community spirit make it a joyous time to visit.

The capital city, Reykjavik, becomes a hub of activity, while the countryside offers peaceful retreats where one can enjoy the snowy vistas in solitude. Visiting Iceland in December is for those seeking adventure and a taste of Icelandic winter magic.

Frequently asked questions

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The Complete Guide to Visiting Iceland in the Winter (including a packing list!)

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Curious about visiting Reykjavik in the winter? Find out everything about visiting Iceland in the winter in this guide!

Iceland is the first destination that I traveled to solo . Shortly after graduating college, I saw an unbeatable travel deal roll through from Travelzoo that was too good to pass up: an Iceland trip including non-stop airfare from Denver, airport transfers, hotel, and a handful of tours (including a Northern Lights tour!), all for under $900.

I had never considered Iceland and knew nothing about this tiny island, especially in December.

Iceland may not be a beach vacay, but Iceland is absolutely magical in the winter. I initially visited with the hopes of catching the Northern Lights and quickly learned that there is SO much to see, do, and experience during the winter months.

After spending a week in Iceland in December during a cold snap, I can tell you that Reykjavik is a magical little town and it is absolutely worth visiting Iceland in the winter.

Find out everything you need to do for your wintery Iceland trip, including things to do, a packing list, and more!

Please note: this post may contain affiliate links. What that means is, if you click on a link and make a purchase through it, I may make a commission at no extra cost to you! Check out my affiliate disclosure for more information.

Tour or Self Guided?

Iceland was the first country I visited as a solo traveler. At that point, I thought it was weird to travel alone so I was super nervous about going. Because of that, I opted to book my entire travel package via Icelandair . For a first-time solo traveler, it was perfect because it took the anxiety out of figuring out a trip itinerary.

The package was nearly all-inclusive. With one booking, I locked down my airfare, airport transfers, hotel, and multiple site tours (including a guided hunt of the Northern Lights!). It was nice because I immediately made friends on the transfer bus from the airport and we hung out throughout the entire trip. It also filled in the time effectively while still allowing me enough freedom to explore Reykjavík on my own.

It was nice not having to rent a car or figure out anything. Don’t get me wrong, I love trip planning, but I was overall very impressed with the Icelandair package. Easy, fun, comprehensive. Perfect.

If you don’t want to book a package like this, I would recommend you at least book guided tours for excursions outside of Reykjavík. It’s going to be dark & icy this time of year, making driving stressful. Let the experts do their thing and enjoy the ride.

Things to Know Before you Visit Iceland in the Winter

Iceland is expensive.

I had heard that Iceland was expensive but I had no idea how expensive until after I arrived. Iceland is honestly nearly Switzerland expensive, so it’s best to be prepared for that.

For example, one time I ordered a bowl of cauliflower cheese soup with a beer. No meat (which should, in theory, reduce the cost) and the dish came to about $25USD. Ouch.

Thankfully, I prepared for this and packed a bunch of snacks in my suitcase to try and skip meals to save some money.

Be careful if you do this! Avoid produce, meat products, and dairy because special import laws may apply. Some nice granola bars, bricks of ramen, nuts, and trail mix are always a great option. I was able to skip about one meal a day which saved me literally hundreds over the course of my week in Iceland.

Iceland uses the Króna, denominated ISK. The exchange is roughly 140 Króna per dollar (but be sure to check this before you go – currency exchange rates can and do change often!).

I used my credit card for literally everything in Iceland. It was the most credit card friendly destination I have ever visited, so don’t worry about getting currency before you arrive. You’re going to want a travel rewards credit card with no foreign transaction fees.

Before you go abroad, be sure to read up about some important money tips so you can make wise money choices!

Iceland is VERY Safe

I felt safer walking around Reyjkavik alone at night than basically anywhere else I’ve been , including my home town. Everyone is super friendly, too, and English is widely spoken.

I was super nervous about traveling solo and second-guessed my decision the entire flight. This cute little magazine was one of the first things I saw once I reached my hotel room and it was super reassuring.

Iceland is really safe, so if you’re considering visiting solo, I say absolutely go for it.

How Dark is Iceland in the Winter?

Because Iceland is so far north, December is the darkest time to visit Iceland . When I visited in early December, the sun would start rising around 11 am and it would be completely dark again come 4 or 5 pm. If you’re visiting Iceland in the winter, expect to only have a few hours of sunlight during your trip.

No need to pack sunglasses!

During my winter jaunt to Iceland, this is the brightest it ever got. “Daylight” felt like dawn or dusk, which definitely took some adjusting to.

One unique side effect of having so little sunlight was that my Circadian Rhythm was a little out of whack throughout my trip. It was hard to shake jet lag because I never really saw the sun and I realized I would want dinner as early as 2 pm – but that’s just because the sun was setting and I was used to eating dinner at sunset!

Be mindful of that ahead of time and prepare so it doesn’t surprise you.

What is the Weather Like During the Icelandic Winter?

Wintertime temperatures in Iceland can get COLD. I’m from Colorado and went to school in Wyoming so trust me, I know cold. It’s a different kind of cold than I had ever experienced because it’s so humid there. You absolutely need to be prepared.

When I visited they were experiencing a cold snap. The temperature hovered in the single digits and occasionally climbed to the teens. This, combined with no sunlight and a humid breeze, made for a very cold experience.

The winter temperatures usually hangs closer to 30-40 degrees but you may need to be prepared for a colder experience. In my opinion, for cold weather, it’s always better to overpack and be prepared than under pack and be stuck in your hotel room. Be ready for the brisk days so you can enjoy tour trip!

The Complete Winter Iceland Packing List

I recommend packing as if you’re going on a ski trip. What that means is:

• A full ski jacket (with a windproof/waterproof outer layer and a warm inner layer)
• Snow pants (again, waterproof)
• Waterproof snowboots with awesome tread (to minimize slipping on the ice)
• Toe & hand warmers
• A base layer, like Under Armour
• “Boot chains” to minimize the risk of slipping when you’re out walking around

There were other folks on my tour who wore jeans and moderate winter jackets. They could barely leave the tour bus because it was too miserable for them. I may have looked like a marshmallow in my ski gear but I was warm, comfortable, and most importantly enjoying my time in Iceland.

Like I said, it’s better to be over-prepared than under-prepared. In my opinion, there is nothing worse than feeling wet & cold.

Things to Do in December and January in Iceland

Reykjavík proper, climb to the top of hallgrimskirkja church.

The tallest church in Iceland, it proudly stands as the main landmark in Reyjkavik. It’s well worth a visit. A massive organ occupies much of the church and at the top you’ll get sweeping views of the city.

Check out the Perlan

Shaped a bit like a pearl, the Perlan provides panoramic views of Reyjkavik and has some pretty awesome exhibits. Check out the museum to learn about Iceland or the planetarium for a Northern Lights show!

Dine at Grillmarkaðurinn

This restaurant is home to a lot of firsts for me so it deserves a special shoutout. This was the first restaurant I ever splurged on a high-end meal for the experience. It’s also the restaurant that convinced me that fish, prepared right, is actually delicious!

I ordered the fish gourmet plate along with a delicious cocktail and the Grillmarket chocolate. Whenever one of my friends goes to Reyjkavik, I insist that they try this restaurant.

Oh, and bread in Iceland is often served with Icelandic lava salt. Delicious.

Walk around the Harpa Concert Hall (and maybe see a show!)

I think the Harpa is really architecturally interesting. It’s worth a stroll around even if you aren’t checking out a show, but check out the listings and see if one is available during your visit. I went to a Russell Brand comedy show and it was super fun intermixing with Icelanders and enjoying a night out. It’s right on the water so walk around and see if you can find any cool ships, too!

See the Sun Voyager

The Sun Voyager is an iconic statue that looks like the bones of a ship. It’s beautiful, especially with the Icelandic landscape in the background.

Check out the world’s largest penis museum

Not a typo! The Icelandic Phallological Museum (Obviously NSFW – look at the URL – phallus.is!) is filled to the gills with whale penises and scrotum lamps. And interesting condoms, penis bottle openers, and educational charts. I’ll spare you the photos – but it’s worth a visit.

Shop on Laugavegur

This is the main artery through Reyjkavik so it’ll be hard to miss. There’s fantastic shopping on this street (not to mention, it’s adorable!). When I visited, I purchased some Yule Lad Christmas decorations, a wool blanket, and Icelandic lava jewelry.

Take some tie and read about the Yule Lads. I love Icelandic folklore!

Eat specialty Icelandic cuisine

I think one of the best ways to experience a new destination is to enjoy their cuisine. No trip to Iceland is complete without trying at least some of these foods!

Pylsur – the famous Reykjavik hotdog

A blend of beef, pork, and lamb, it’s not your boring ballpark hotdog. Tourists AND locals enjoy the hotdog, so you know it’s good!

Thick, creamy yogurt. Icelanders love this stuff. It’s kind of like Greek yogurt.

Fermented shark

Sometimes lovingly called rotted shark. It smells like fish you left in the fridge while taking a 2 or 3-week vacation, but it’s traditionally Icelandic and worth trying. It’s got the consistency of jerky. If you try it, have a chaser to help get it down.

Brennivin – “Black Death”

Remember that chaser you need after eating fermented shark? The main liquor of Iceland is the perfect chaser. Known as Black Death, Brennivin has a similar taste to black licorice.

Winter-Friendly Icelandic Day Trips & Excursions

Hunt the northern lights.

No trip to Iceland during the winter season is complete without going for a Northern Lights hunt. Get a guide – they will know the best places for viewing the Northern Lights.

One note, though! You won’t be able to see the lights if there is cloud cover. Remember how I said I visited during a cold snap? It snowed the entire time I was there which meant… you guessed it… clouds. Try to make your trip just a bit longer and bake in some flexibility so you can chase the Northern Lights on a clear night.

The Golden Circle

The Golden Circle tour will take you to a national park, a geyser, and a massive waterfall. It’s a great way to quickly see some of the natural majesty that Iceland offers. There are a ton of different packages depending on what interests you!

This was, without a doubt, the coldest tour I went on.

Like, I could feel my nose hairs freezing cold.

Standing near an active waterfall in frigid temperatures means you need to be prepared! (Seriously, buy that ski gear before you go).

Savor the Many Hot Springs & Thermal Baths

Iceland generates 25% of its electricity with geothermal energy . If you don’t know what geothermal energy is, it’s the heat that naturally exists underneath our feet in the rock. It’s hard to access in most places, but in Iceland, it’s plentiful. That means that there are wonderful geothermal spas all over the country that you can bathe in!

You may think that it sounds crazy to visit a hot spring in the winter, but it is absolutely wonderful.

There is nothing more special than basically hot tubbing in a natural spa while snow flurries dance around your hair. Go every chance you get – I loved this experience, especially after a day of hiking.

Absolutely visit the Blue Lagoon, ESPECIALLY in the Winter

Ok. The Blue Lagoon is known for being a tourist trap. But it’s secretly awesome.

It’s kind of like the Disneyland of thermal baths. It’s super high tech and the Blue Lagoon makes it easy to seamlessly move around the facility without awkwardly carrying around a wallet or any other personal goods.

Check it out before your departure flight. A lot of tours make it easy to pop in for a couple of hours on the way back to the airport!

I genuinely enjoyed my time at the Blue Lagoon and it is one of my fondest memories of my wintery trip to Iceland. I really can’t recommend it enough.

See (or Scuba Dive!) the Mid-Atlantic Ridge

Nerd alert! You know how, probably decades ago, you learned about tectonic plates? Well, in Iceland, you get the rare opportunity to actually TOUCH tectonic plates. Usually, they hang out far below the surface but Iceland is one of the few places in the WORLD where you can see the plate boundaries on dry land.

The Mid-Atlantic Ridge represents the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates . If you’re like me, you’ll be content just touching them. Some people scuba dive between them! Sounds cold in December, but people do it!

Game of Thrones Tour

Parts of Game of Thrones were filmed in Iceland! If you loved that series, it may be fun to take a tour and see the film sites.

Hike a Glacier

There are glaciers all over in Iceland. I got the opportunity to strap on some crampons (spiky boot attachments for walking on ice) and climb a glacier, which is super cool. Even cooler than hiking a glacier was that it was a VOLCANO! That last erupted in 2010! Crazy.

Climbing Eyjafjallajökull was an awesome experience. How many times in your life can you say you hiked a volcanic glacier that erupted recently?!

Check out all the adventure options!

I only scratched the surface of all that Iceland has to offer during my 5 days there. Hikes, scuba adventures, ATVs, volcanos, waterfalls, history, sheep, and so much more is available to be discovered in Iceland – even in the winter! Check out GetYourGuide to see what tours exist and find what adventure speaks to you!

Visiting Iceland in the Winter is a Magical Experience

When most people think of a winter getaway, Iceland probably doesn’t bubble up to the top of the vacay list.

However, Iceland is such an interesting, adventurous, magical place – especially in the winter. There is so much to see and even more to do & experience.

Have you been to Iceland? Comment below and let me know what you thought!

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December in Iceland – Weather, Fun Activities, Christmas & More

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This is the last episode in my series about the months in Iceland and what to expect.

Visiting Iceland in December is a magical experience, often described as stepping into a winter wonderland. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what you can expect, from weather conditions to the must-do activities, road conditions and more.

Weather and Average Temperature During December in Iceland

December in Iceland is quite cold, with average temperatures ranging from -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F). It’s not uncommon for the temperature to drop below freezing, especially at night and in the more northern parts of the country. The weather can be unpredictable, with possible snowfall, rain, and windstorms, so it’s essential to check the forecast regularly.

Daylight Hours in December

One of the most distinctive features of Icelandic winters is the limited daylight. In December, the sun rises around 11:00 AM and sets by 4:00 PM, giving you about 5 hours of daylight. This unique phenomenon is due to Iceland’s high latitude.

What to Wear in December in Iceland

Layering is key to staying warm and comfortable in Iceland’s winter weather. Start with thermal underwear, add fleece or wool layers, and top with a waterproof and windproof jacket.

Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and a scarf to protect against the chill. Waterproof boots with good traction are essential for navigating icy paths.

Also, the ground is normally covered in snow and ice, so I highly recommend having your microspikes with you because those will come in handy. If the forecast is especially chilly, I often bring hand warmers with me because my hands get cold easily. Also, wool socks or some really good thermal socks come in clutch during this month too.

The l ink to my microspikes and where you can rent microspikes in Reykjavík.

Know exactly what to pack for Iceland by getting my free Ultimate Packing Checklist .

Road Conditions & Driving

Winter driving in Iceland can be challenging due to snow, ice, and reduced visibility. Roads can be slippery, and some might be closed due to harsh weather. It’s crucial to have a 4WD vehicle, check the road conditions at the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (Vegagerðin) website and Safetravel.si regularly, and be prepared for winter driving. Always have an emergency kit in your car.

The Best Local Company to Rent a Car in Iceland

Go car rental iceland.

If you plan to explore Iceland on your own when you visit, I highly recommend using Go Car Rental Iceland . They are a local Icelandic car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars and very competitive prices. Use my code Iceland10 to save 10% off the entire cost of your rental car.

I personally use them for when I go on adventures, and I’m so glad to hear that many of my listeners and subscribers are also having a great experience with them. I mentioned in a previous episode that one of my listeners switched to Go Car Rental Iceland from one of the internationally known rental car companies here and she saved $400! That was for a rental during the summer when prices can sometimes double due to demand.

If you plan to use a campervan, use my code Iceland7 to save 7% and get two free duvets with your GO Campers van rental. Also, I have a great episode coming up soon about how to choose the right camper van for your travels in Iceland, so keep an eye out for that.

Expert Trip Planning Tips for December

One of the best tips I have for December in Iceland is to be prepared for potential delays or cancellations because of storms. To be fair, we normally have a lot more wind and snowstorms during January and February, but they certainly can happen in December too.

Having a flexible approach to your plans is key so that you can manage your expectations. As I have mentioned in previous winter episodes, you might have to slow down if the roads are very icy and that’s ok Lastly, please heed the warnings about severe winter storms and if it is advised to stay off the road. Visitors underestimate the weather here all the time and they end up having to be rescued by Iceland’s Search and Rescue team.

Why You Should Visit Iceland in December

Despite the cold and darkness, December is a fantastic time to visit Iceland because of its unique winter beauty, and the chance to experience Icelandic Christmas traditions. If you visit during the very beginning of December there are usually less tourists but that changes are the middle of the month rolls around.

Top Activities to Do in December

• Northern Lights : The long nights provide a perfect backdrop for viewing the aurora borealis, one of Iceland’s most sought-after experiences.
• Ice Caving and Glacier Hiking : Explore stunning blue ice caves in Vatnajökull National Park or go glacier hiking on Solheimajokull.
• Geothermal Pools : Relax in geothermal hot springs like the Blue Lagoon or the Sky Lagoon. The contrast of the cold air and the warm water is invigorating.
• Snowmobiling and Dog Sledding : Thrill-seekers can enjoy snowmobiling on a glacier or dog sledding through winter landscapes.
• Christmas Markets and Festivities : Experience Icelandic Christmas traditions and markets, especially in Reykjavik.

December Events and Holidays

• Christmas Beers and spirits
• Christmas Buffets
• Christmas Markets
• Shooting off fireworks
• Partying downtown

I have another episode that goes more in-depth into 7 wonderful ways to experience Christmas in Iceland and that is linked in the description of this episode.

Iceland Trip Planning Resources

Before hopping into the random fact of the episode, I want to share some Iceland trip planning resources. I’ve received many amazing emails from listeners of the podcast and followers on social media asking me for my advice on what to do in Iceland. Due to the high demand for this information, I created some resources.

Video Consultation with Me for Your Trip

One of the resources is that if you’re interested in getting personalized trip planning advice from me, you can book me for a consultation via this link . After you fill out a survey and pick a time that is available for both of us, we do a one-hour video chat via Google Meet.

During this time, we chat about your interest, parts of the country you want to visit, how to get the most out of your time, helpful information to know about Iceland before coming, and any questions that you have. I always feel delighted when I hear at the end of the call that people feel even more excited about their upcoming trip because of the consultation.

Make Your Own Itinerary with My Iceland Map

Another great resource is to grab full access to my Iceland map. This map was created for those who want to pick out places and hidden gems around Iceland to make up their own itinerary or add to one that they already created.

With full access, you get over 250 places that I recommend in Iceland, along with four itineraries to use for planning your trip. Those itineraries include a 10-day Ring Road trip, a 3-day South Iceland trip, The Famous Golden Circle and a Reykjanes Peninsula Day Trip.

A one-time purchase gives you lifetime access, which includes any updates I make to the map.

Here is a link to my Iceland map: rexby.com/jewells/Iceland .

Random Fact of the Episode

If you are in Iceland on December 23rd, it is when Icelanders eat Skata or fermented skate. It is a very smelly dish that can be smelled down the block. If you decide to try it, make sure to wear some clothes that are old that you can get rid of or that you don’t mind having a stench.

Icelandic Word of the Episode

December in Icelandic is spelled Desember and pronounced slightly different.

Gleðileg jól – Merry Christmas

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Visiting Iceland in December

It is hard to say one month is better than another for visiting Iceland, but December is exceptional. We have the Northern Lights, ideal wintry landscapes, and 13 Yule Lads to celebrate Christmas! Whether you venture out around the island or explore in and around Reykjavik, you’ll find plenty to do every day you stay in Iceland.

Your Friend in Reykjavik  is ready to share our favorite local spots and some shopping (and maybe Santa) secrets with you. Here are some highlights to entice you to plan your trip to Iceland, with perhaps a day or two with us in Reykjavik!

Weather in Iceland in December

December in Iceland is a genuinely wintry month. The weather usually hovers between 28°F to 39°F (-2°C to 4°C). And you should expect snow or rain. Reykjavik tends to get less snow than other parts of the country, but this doesn’t mean we don’t see any blizzards. We are used to this brisk weather, but you may need to pack a few extra layers. Or pick up some  cold-weather gear  while shopping!

No matter the season in Iceland, we always recommend people layer up when sightseeing. Removing clothes if you’re warm is easier than adding layers if you’re cold and don’t have them! We recommend you either bring or buy thermal underwear, woollen socks, an extra sweater, a scarf, a hat and gloves. Don’t forget a warm winter coat and sturdy shoes. The Arctic wind can be brutal, and the roads can be icy!

Are Storms Likely?

It is Iceland, so there is always a possibility of storms. Even in the summer months. But storms are not more likely in December than in November, for example. We recommend you check the official website of the Icelandic Met Office regularly and see if they have weather warnings (shown in the upper right corner). If you are going out of the city, we highly recommend you check out trafficinfo.is . You will see which roads are open and which are not. The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration operate the website. You can also check out live feeds from various places around the country from the website to see road conditions.

However, and we can’t emphasize this enough, if there is a weather warning in place and people are asked to stay inside or at least not to travel, listen. Icelanders do not issue weather warnings lightly.

We also recommend you download the Safe Travel app from ICE-SAR.

Learn More About When to Visit Iceland:

• Visit Iceland in January
• Visit Iceland in February
• Visit Iceland in March
• Visit Iceland in April
• Visit Iceland in May
• Visit Iceland in June
• Visit Iceland in July
• Visit Iceland in August
• Visit Iceland in September
• Visit Iceland in October
• Visit Iceland in November
• Visit Iceland in December

How Short are the Days in Iceland in December?

During December, the days in Iceland are extremely short. In fact, the shortest day of winter, Winter Solstice, is December 21st, at about 4 hours. Sunrise happens closer to what you’d typically consider lunchtime. Sunset seems to follow quickly after at about 4 pm. You can still pack many things to do during that daylight time. And we’re used to the long nights, so join us on a  Reykjavik walking tour  and pick up some tips for the rest of your visit to Iceland!

The nights are long in December but full of fun and friends if you visit Reykjavik! However, twilight also lasts longer here than in many other places due to Iceland’s placement on the Earth. So even if the sunrise is after 11 a.m., it has begun getting a little bit brighter an hour or two before.

Enjoy the Northern Light Long during December in Iceland

One superb sight when visiting Iceland in December is the  Northern Lights . With almost 20 hours of darkness, you will probably experience the full spectrum of the Aurora Borealis in all its out-of-this-world glory. Even the mild light pollution from Reykjavik and the surrounding populated areas do not match Nature’s light show during this time of year. Don’t forget your camera to capture this unique phenomenon.

Even if you catch the Northern Lights outdoors, we still recommend you check out Aurora Reykjavik – the Northern Lights center and the Northern Lights Planetarium show in Perlan .

Christmas in Iceland is Like No Other

When visiting Iceland in December, there’s an excellent chance you’ll encounter one of the Yule Lads. These are our  Santas – 13 brothers  who take turns every night before Christmas to visit little boys and girls. Nice children get sweets. Naughty kiddies get a rotten potato! Then there is Grýla and Leppalúði, their parents – naughty children might be captured by them, but they have mellowed a lot in recent years. The Yule Cat is formidable, so you better get new clothes before Christmas. Otherwise, it will eat you! Talking about cats, our tour Reykjavik CatWalk is a tour feline friends shouldn’t miss. You will learn everything about all the famous Reykjavik cats and the Yule Cat!

Reykjavik Christmas Walk

Of course, Your Friend in Reykjavik offers a Christmas Walking Tour . We will walk you through Reykjavik’s festive streets, explore Icelandic Christmas traditions , and discover characters from Icelandic winter folklore.

Learn more about the 13 Yule lads and their family. We will even visit the large Yule Cat, which waits patiently on Lækjartorg for people to devour. This all sounds very scary and possibly something that should be in a Halloween walking tour, but don’t worry. Our guides will ensure the tour’s content is appropriate for the group in attendance.

Additionally, we will taste some delicious food and drink Icelanders consider a vital part of Christmas. Yummy.

We recommend you check out the Christmas Walking tour if you want to visit some of the city’s hidden gems, which visitors often overlook! However, if you will not be in Iceland in December, check out the Christmas in Iceland live stream scheduled on December 10.

And if you find yourself in northern Iceland, visit Myvatn Nature Baths and watch these unruly brothers take their  annual baths  before their holiday frolics. If you’re in that part of the country, the Christmas House in Akureyri is also worth a visit.

Shop the Christmas Markets in Reykjavik

Christmas markets are more than just shopping spots in Reykjavik. They are social and entertainment centers for visitors and locals to enjoy. And you don’t have to go far to find yuletide fun when visiting Iceland in December. Hjartatorg between Hverfisgata and Laugavegur changes into a Christmas Market wonderland every weekend in December before Christmas. Ingólfstorg Square goes fully festive every weekend until Christmas. Or head inland to the Christmas Market at  Elliðavatnsbær in Heiðmörk . For a whole Christmas experience, just 20 minutes south of Reykjavik is Hafnarfjörður, which transforms into a traditional  Christmas village , complete with horse-drawn carriages and the chance to catch a glimpse of an elf or two!

Top things to do in Reykjavik in December

Just because there’s not a lot of daylight doesn’t mean there’s not much to do in Reykjavik in December. In addition to the Christmas markets, you can take to the ice with some skating in Ingólfstorg Square. Or watch the animals enjoy their sunlamps at the  zoo . If the weather is getting a little too cold for you, go indoors and explore our best museums . One way to do that is to buy the Reykjavik City Card , which gives you access to many of the city’s museums, art galleries, and swimming pools, as well as discounts at many other places. You can choose between 24- , 36- , or 72 -hour cards. It is highly recommended.

Want to relax with some local comfort food and a pint or two? We are more than happy to share our culinary scene with you on our  Reykjavik food tour . You may even be tempted to try some  f ermented shark . Or maybe just our  famous hot dogs .

Places to Visit Across Iceland in December

Visiting Iceland in December offers winter wonders of all kinds. If you’re into UNESCO World Heritage sites,  Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park , just east of Reykjavik, is stunning for photo ops. But you can hike and even go horseback riding. Weather conditions permitting, of course. For a warmer feel, the hot springs at Krýsuvík also provide an enchanting panorama with the many colors that paint the surrounding hills. You can also visit  Kleifarvatn Lake  and try to spy on Iceland’s version of the Loch Ness Monster.

Getting Around Iceland and Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a very walkable city. But if you want to rest those feet, we’ve got taxi and bus services available across the city. Access to the bus service is also included in the Reykjavik City Card. And if you’re going to explore more than the capital, our  public transport  is reliable and reaches most regions. You can rent a car here for those who like more freedom to take to the road. However, you should check the weather and  road conditions  before heading out. And remember, you have limited daylight hours, so you should be comfortable driving in the dark if you’re going to rent a car while visiting Iceland in December.

What to Pack for a December trip to Iceland?

It is winter, so make sure you have enough warm clothes packed . As stated before, we are big fans of layering. That way, you are comfortable whether you’re outdoors or inside. Hiking boots, a waterproof jacket, and pants should be included if you plan any outdoor activities. If you’re not used to long nights and short days, you may want to consider sleep aids to get you sleeping at the proper time. And maybe an extra alarm to help you keep your body clock regular.

Your Friend in Reykjavik Welcomes You to Walk Our Winter Wonderland!

You can join all our walking tours in December, but we have a selection available over the holiest days (December 24-26).

Traveling to Iceland in winter is a spectacular experience. Your Friend in Reykjavik invites you to join in the fun during this most festive time of year! Chase the Yule Lads around the island, then see the holiday antics in full gear in Reykjavik. Make the most of your visit with one of our  many walking tours , or give yourself a holiday treat with the specialized service on our Reykjavik  private tours . Not sure which is best?  Contact us  today! We’ll be happy to make suggestions so that you have the best time visiting our winter wonderland!

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

The Ultimate 7-Day Iceland Winter Itinerary

November 2, 2022 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

Are you trying to plan an Iceland winter itinerary? From thawing out in hot springs to escaping the cold to seeking it out in ice caves and on glaciers, we’ve got you covered with an adventure-filled itinerary as well as details on where to stay in Iceland in winter. 

Fortunately for you, many of Iceland’s most spectacular natural landscapes are still accessible in the winter, and you might even find they’re cloaked in a beautiful layer of white snow. 

Planning your trip to Iceland last minute?

Make sure to book your hotels and tours in Iceland in advance to ensure availability! The longer you wait, the more difficult it gets. Here are my top picks for your trip :

Top Experiences And Tours In Iceland:

• Golden Circle Full Day Tour From Reykjavik (Likely to sell out!)
• Silfra Snorkeling Tour (Includes photos + only small group)
• South Of Iceland Full Day Trip (Our pick!)
• Whale Watching In Reykjavik (On a luxury yacht)
• Northern Lights Bus Tour (Great to go with a local)
• Ice Cave Tour And Glacier Hike (Likely to sell out)

Tickets You MUST book in advance:

• Keflavik > Reykjavik Bus Airport Transfer (Skip the line!)
• Sky Lagoon Entrance Ticket (Includes 7-step spa ritual)
• Blue Lagoon Entry Ticket With Drink (Likely to sell out!)

Top picks for places to stay in Iceland:

• Hotel South Coast (Great central location)
• Grandi Reykjavik (Includes free breakfast)
• Hotel Kria (Close to black sand beach)
• Hotel Skaftafell (Mid-range price)

From the Snaefellsness Peninsula all the way east to Skaftafell and the glacier lagoons, the landscape is equally stunning wherever you go and is remarkably diverse.

Whether you take Iceland winter tours or stick to exploring on your own, you’re in for a real treat.

How Many Days Do You Need For Your Iceland Winter Itinerary? 

The beauty of this Iceland winter road trip itinerary is that it can be adapted to fit your desires and time constraints.

A week to explore down the south coast and back would be ideal, but anywhere from 4-7 days will give you enough time to really soak in the beauty of the country in winter. 

The limited daylight hours, particularly if you plan an Iceland Itinerary for December, mean you’ll have less time each day to explore, however activities such as bathing in hot springs and viewing the Northern Lights can be done after the sun sets. 

Because the winter weather restricts access to some parts of the country, you have less ground to cover and will stick largely to the south coast. This means that a 4-7 day winter Iceland Itinerary is a reasonable timeline. 

Daylight Hours For Your Iceland Winter Road Trip 

As winter arrives in the land of fire and ice, the days rapidly get shorter ultimately culminating in the winter solstice on December 21 when the country sees just four hours of daylight from approximately 11:30am to 3:30pm. 

If you plan an Iceland Itinerary for January, the daylight hours will increase again to 7 hours by the end of the month giving you a little more time to explore. 

By February you’ll experience 10 hours of daylight as it finally begins to resemble the daylight hours of the rest of Europe.

While the many hours of darkness certainly impact the number of outdoor activities that can be accomplished in one day on a winter Iceland road trip, it also means a higher chance of experiencing ideal conditions to see the Northern Lights. 

Weather On Your Winter Iceland Trip

There’s no arguing against the fact that Iceland winters are cold, however despite the country’s name and its proximity to the Arctic Circle, it’s not as cold as you might think. 

Thanks in part to the warming effects of the Gulfstream, the average winter temperatures are in fact comparable to that of a US city such as New York City. 

Winter temperatures particularly in the capital hover around freezing (32F/0C), however, if you pack appropriately and bundle up, the cold won’t stop you from completing your adventurous itinerary.

The bigger hindrance in the winter is the snow, rain, and often fierce winds making road conditions challenging and sometimes dangerous. Iceland’s weather is notoriously unpredictable all year long. 

If you’re planning a winter trip to Iceland, make sure you continue to check the road conditions. Even the best-maintained roads can become impassable during the winter months.

Ultimate Iceland Winter Itinerary In 7 Days

Day 1: south coast waterfalls .

Iceland’s south coast is known for its spectacular waterfalls. Not only is this collection of waterfalls particularly impressive, but they are all relatively close to one another making them easy to access in one day. 

You can expect large tourist crowds at Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss in particular. Their easy accessibility off of the well-maintained Route 1 and their reasonable proximity to Reykjavik make them an appealing stop for your Iceland winter itinerary.

Book Here: Full-Day South Coast, Black Beach & Waterfalls Tour

Stop 1: Walk Behind The Cascading Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Seljalandsfoss is the first of the south coast waterfalls you’ll encounter, and it’s certainly one of the most popular. 

This 200-foot waterfall is particularly unique because a path leads around the back allowing you to walk behind the waterfall and feel its sheer force. If you don’t want to get wet, bring a raincoat as you’ll definitely catch some of the sprays as it hits the water below. 

If you choose to visit the waterfall as part of your 7-day winter Iceland Itinerary, you’ll have the opportunity to see it take on a whole new kind of beauty as parts of the waterfall freeze and a sprinkling of snow coats the land around it.

This is truly one of my favorite things to do in Iceland!

Stop 2: Wade Through A Cavern To Find Gljúfrabúi

Gljúfrabúi is particularly convenient to visit as it’s a neighbor to Seljalandsfoss. This unique waterfall requires a bit more of an adventure to reach, and ideally, you’d be equipped with waterproof or quick-drying shoes in case the water levels are high. 

To reach Gljúfrabúi on your Iceland winter trip, you’ll follow the end of the Seljalandsfoss trail towards the campground, where you’ll eventually spot a sign for the entrance to the waterfall. From there, you’ll walk over stones through the river or wade through the water if the stones are underwater. 

Inside the cavern, you’ll find a beautiful waterfall cascading down the cavern walls. On a sunny day it’s particularly striking as it’s made even more brilliant by catching the light streaming through the opening above. 

Stop 3: View The Power Of Skogafoss From Below Or Above

Your Iceland winter road trip continues with Skogafoss which is located just a short 25 minutes down Route 1 from Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi. It’s nearly equal in height to Seljalandsfoss at 197 feet but beats it in width at an impressive 84 feet wide. 

This thundering waterfall can be viewed from below where you’re sure to get wet from the spray. Or you can choose to work your legs climbing roughly 500 stairs to the top of the waterfall for a view from up above. 

From above you’ll get to see the waterfall’s source, the river Skógá, as well as a view out beyond of the vast south coast landscape. 

Stop 4: Wander Into The Valley Where Kvernufoss Awaits

Visually, Kvernufoss has many similarities to Seljalandsfoss, just on a smaller scale. It also happens to be a neighbor to Skogafoss making it an obvious next stop on your Iceland winter itinerary. 

You’ll drive from Skogafoss to Hotel Edda, which is right next door, where you’ll walk a brief 10-15 minutes into the valley. Navigating the last part of this walk is trickier and sometimes impossible in the winter when the icy ground makes approaching the waterfall dangerous. 

Worst case scenario you can view this 98-foot waterfall from a bit of a distance. It’s still a beautiful site and a peaceful one too thanks to much smaller crowds. 

Where To Stay Near Kvernufoss In Vik

Affordable:  The Barn . Check rates: Booking.com

Mid-range:  Puffin Hotel Vik . Check rates: Booking.com

Luxury:  Black Beach Suites . Check rates: Booking.com

Day 2: Skaftafell And Glacier Lagoons

Day 2 of your Iceland winter road trip itinerary is the kind of day Elsa from Frozen would enjoy thanks to an endless supply of ice-related experiences.

This is the farthest east you’ll venture on this trip before heading back in the direction of Reykjavik. 

From glaciers to floating icebergs you’re about to experience a whole new side of Iceland that fits right in with the country’s name. This is proof of Iceland’s diverse landscape at its finest. 

Stop 1: Explore The Landscapes Within The Skaftafell Nature Reserve 

Unsurprisingly Iceland is home to a number of national parks including Vatnajokull National Park where you’ll find the Skaftafell Nature Reserve. 

This is the perfect opportunity to take a guided ice cave tour . These Iceland winter tours take you over a glacier and through newly discovered or rediscovered ice caves that form each summer and become explorable in the winter. 

Within Skaftafell you’ll also find another of Iceland’s unique and impressive waterfalls, Svartifoss. A 3.5-mile round trip hike takes you by a number of other waterfalls before reaching the cascading Svartifoss backed by beautiful basalt columns.

Book Here: Skaftafell Guided Glacier Hike Day Trip

Stop 2: Escape The Crowds At The Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon

The Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon offers similar beauty to Jokulsarlon, but on a smaller more intimate scale. Tourists flock to Jokulsarlon but many skip over its neighbor leaving you to enjoy the beauty of Fjallsarlon in peace and quiet. 

If you sit by the water you can hear the ice break and collide, a reminder of nature’s ever-changing existence and power. This is the perfect way to wind down day two of your winter Iceland road trip.

Stop 3: Watch the Icebergs Float To Shore At Jokulsarlon And Diamond Beach

There’s something so serene and peaceful about watching icebergs float on calm waters during your Iceland winter trip.

The Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon gives you the opportunity to view these bergs from a distance while listening to the occasional crack of ice as pieces break off the glacier in the background. 

Across the street, you’ll find Diamond Beach, a beautiful black sand beach with crystal clear iceberg chunks dotting its shores. The beauty of Diamond Beach is that it’s always changing as ice melts and new bergs wash to shore. 

Book Here: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Full-Day Tour From Reykjavik

Where To Stay Near The Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Mid-range:  Reynivellir II . Check rates: Booking.com

Mid-range:  Skyrhúsid Guest House . Check rates: Booking.com

Day 3: Solheimasandur And Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Day 3 is one of the more relaxed days of your winter Iceland road trip as a light itinerary leaves you with time to wander and fully take in the unique spots you’ll be visiting. 

From an eerie plane wreck to the most well-known of Iceland’s unique black sand beaches complete with dramatic basalt columns, you’re in for an exciting day with the chance to take in a part of Iceland that is different from anything else you’ll experience on this trip. 

Stop 1: Circle The Plane Crash Remains On Solheimasandur Beach

Visiting the wreckage of a plane crash may seem like an odd choice for your winter Iceland Itinerary when you have so much natural beauty to explore around the country, but when that plane crash is smack in the middle of one of Iceland’s black sand beaches, it becomes all the more intriguing. 

A 2-mile hike each way will take you to the Solheimasadur Plane Wreck, the remains of a DC-3 US navy plane from 1973. Thankfully everyone survived the crash, so the story isn’t exceptionally grim, but the scene still paints an eerie picture. 

The white wreckage contrasted with the black sand is a picture every tourist looks to get. Visiting in winter is equally fantastic when the sand might be peppered with white snow. 

Book Here: South Coast and Black Beach ATV Ride

Stop 2: Watch The Raging Atlantic From The Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Iceland is known for its black sand beaches, but Reynisfjara is the most popular of them all. Known for its dramatic waves, the beach can be both stunning and dangerous. Sleeper waves have been known to take out oblivious tourists, so stay alert. 

As long as you’re paying attention and are dressed to brace the cold, the beach is a wonderful stop along your winter Iceland road trip allowing you to take in ocean sounds, admire the unusual rock formations out in the sea, and climb the basalt columns. 

The basalt columns line the back part of the beach rising higher and higher like an enormous church organ. They’ve become a favorite spot for photographs as tourists climb the individual hexagons. 

From the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, you’ll head a couple of hours away to Fludir so you’re in a great position to start Day 4.

Where To Stay In Fludir

Affordable:  Skyggnir Bed and Breakfast . Check rates: Booking.com

Mid-range: Blue Hotel Fagrilundur . Check rates: Booking.com

Day 4: Golden Circle and Hot Springs

Iceland’s Golden Circle route is perhaps the most iconic tourist route in the country which means it gets crowded, but it’s iconic for a reason and offers you a glimpse of some of Iceland’s most spectacular natural phenomena. 

Day 4 of your 7-day winter Iceland Itinerary takes you to hot springs, waterfalls, and geysers. By the time you reach your hotel at the end of the day, you’ll be in awe of the power and diversity of nature. 

Book Here: Golden Circle Full Day Tour From Reykjavik

Stop 1: Grab A Pool Noodle And Float In The Secret Lagoon

Let the hot spring bathing begin! The Secret Lagoon is the first of many opportunities on your Iceland winter itinerary for you to soak in geothermally heated water.

The Secret Lagoon is a man-made pool with water fed from a natural spring. It’s located in a geothermally active area near the town of Fluðir and is a favorite spot for many locals and tourists. 

If you’re looking for the luxury of the Blue Lagoon, this is not it. But this modest pool offers pool noodles to float on, a petite geyser behind the pool, a relaxing setting for recharging and is an ideal way to start your day.

Book Here: Golden Circle Small Group Tour With Secret Lagoon

Stop 2: Stay Warm In The Hrunalaug Hot Springs 

The Hrunalaug Hot Springs consists of one bathtub-sized pool and one slightly larger 8-10 person pool with a changing hut in between. 

As you relax in the hot springs, you’ll be surrounded by the beautiful natural landscape while you enjoy ideal water temperature that is perfect for keeping you warm as you make your way through day 4 of your Iceland winter itinerary. 

While you’re more than welcome to visit both the Secret Lagoon and the Hrunalaug Hot Springs back to back, you’ll more likely want to pick one over the other as they both serve similar purposes.

Stop 3: Take In The Impressive Width Of Faxafoss

The packed crowds of the most famous Golden Circle stops are still to come, but in the meantime, you can enjoy a lesser-known treasure of this tourist route, the Faxafoss waterfall. 

Faxafoss stands at 105 feet tall which is nothing special compared to the well-known south coast waterfalls, but its width and the power of its crashing water make it a worthwhile stop. 

Another benefit to visiting this natural beauty is its proximity to the greenhouse restaurant Friðheimar where you can get the most delicious all-you-can-eat tomato soup and freshly baked bread to fuel your Iceland winter road trip adventures.

Stop 4: Feel The Spray Of The Two-tiered Gullfoss Waterfall

You’ve officially hit the first of the three most iconic Golden Circle stops on your winter Iceland road trip. 

Gullfoss is an impressive, two-tiered waterfall nicknamed the Golden Waterfall due to the rainbow that can often be seen arching over it on a sunny day.

You can view the waterfall from its second drop, or climb the stairs to the top of the waterfall where you can get close enough to feel its misty spray. Either viewpoint is impressive and makes you understand why this stop is among the most famous in Iceland.

Stop 4: Take A Video of The Strokkur Geyser Erupting

Strokkur marks the second of the iconic Golden Circle stops on your winter Iceland Itinerary. Iceland is full of geothermally active regions, but to see an erupting geyser is a rare and unique occurrence. 

In the Haukadalur Valley, you’ll find the Strokkur geyser. It’s a neighbor to another geyser, appropriately named “Geysir” however Geysir is no longer active. Strokkur on the other hand erupts roughly every 5-7 minutes making it easy to witness multiple times if you choose to stick around for a bit. 

As you wait for the next eruption you can wander the area and enjoy bubbling pools of muddy water and steam rising from the ground.

Stop 5: Thaw Out At The Laugarvatn Fontana To End Your Day

A day that starts and ends with a soak in a geothermal bath is an ideal day. You’ll finish day 4 of your Iceland winter itinerary with a stop at the Laugarvatn Fontana thermal baths and spa.

With three mineral pools of varying temperatures, steam baths, a sauna, and a lake bordering the pools if you care to take a cold plunge, you’re in for a real treat. 

You’ll even have the opportunity to pay a little extra to see how rye bread is baked in the hot ground as part of a geothermal bakery tour. And of course, you’ll get to eat some bread after for the ultimate icing on the cake.

Where To Stay In Laugarvatn

Affordable/Mid-range: Hotel Laugarvatn . Check rates: Booking.com

Mid-range: Galleri Laugarvatn . Check rates: Booking.com

Day 5: Thingvellir, Selfoss, And The Reykjadalur Hot Springs

Day 5 of your Iceland winter itinerary will allow you to complete the Golden Circle with the third of the most iconic stops before heading towards the steam-filled valleys of Hveragerdi. Multiple continents soaks in hot rivers…the good times and stunning natural landscapes never stop. 

The day offers the perfect mix of relaxation and thrilling adventure. Are you hoping to snorkel in crystal clear waters or sit by a waterfall? All this and more await you as you make your way through the Selfoss and Hveragerdi regions of Iceland. 

Stop 1: Venture Between Continents At Thingvellir National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the meeting point of the Northern American and Eurasian tectonic plates, lava rock, a waterfall…surely this is enough to convince you to add Thingvellir National Park to your Iceland winter road trip itinerary. 

As one of the three most iconic Golden Circle stops, Thingvellir is a thriving tourist destination, so expect crowds. Fortunately, the national park spans a large area so the crowds don’t tend to feel overwhelming. 

The park can be explored any number of ways from walking the rift valley separating the two continents to taking a snorkeling tour through the Silfra Fissure .

Book Here: Silfra Fissure Snorkeling Half-Day Trip From Reykjavik

Stop 2: Take A Break And Enjoy The Conveniences Of Selfoss

As one of the larger towns outside of the capital, Selfoss is an ideal place to stop and just regroup before the next adventure of the day. 

In Selfoss, you’ll have access to Bónus, Hagkaup, Krónan, and Nettó, all the major grocery store chains in Iceland. 

You can also grab a casual bite to eat at a place like Subway or Pylsuvagninn (hot dogs), or you can sit down for a longer lunch in a cozy, charming spot like Þrastalundur. 

This stop in Selfoss is also the perfect opportunity to fill up on gas before you head roughly 20 minutes to the next stop on your Iceland winter itinerary, the Reykjadular Hot Springs. 

Stop 3: Break Up A Rewarding Hike With A Soak In The Reykjadalur Hot Springs

A 45-minute moderately difficult hike through a beautiful steam-filled valley will lead you to the ultimate reward, the Reykjadalur Hot Springs , a hot river perfect for bathing.

As you approach the area appropriate for bathing you’ll see the river is divided into sections by short rock walls that create deeper pockets of water just deep enough for you to comfortably sit in. 

For an Iceland winter trip, however, you might have to hike slightly farther upstream to find a warm enough section of the river. When your legs feel rested and you’re ready to head back, you’ll return the same way you came to arrive back at your car.

Where To Stay In Hveragerdi

Affordable:  Hotel Eldhestar . Check rates: Booking.com

Mid-range/Luxury: The Greenhouse Hotel . Check rates: Booking.com

Luxury:  ION Adventure Hotel . Check rates: Booking.com

Day 6: Snaefelssnes Peninsula

Waterfalls, natural bridges, basalt columns, volcanic craters…the Snaefelssnes Peninsula features a diverse landscape that offers a little bit of everything.

Visiting the Snaefelssnes Peninsula will take you back past Reykjavik and requires extra driving, but it’s a worthwhile stop. 

If you’re starting to slow down towards the end of your winter trip to Iceland, you can choose to eliminate the Snaefelssnes Peninsula and spend all of day 6 and 7 relaxing in the lagoons and exploring the capital instead. 

Book Here: Snaefellsnes Peninsula Full-Day Tour From Reykjavik

Stop 1: Snap A Shot Of The Iconic Kirkjufell Mountain and Kirjufellsfoss Waterfall

You might recognize Kirkjufell (church mountain) from an episode of Game of Thrones , or maybe you just saw it plastered on postcards in gift shops throughout the country. Either way, soak in the beauty of this cone-shaped mountain that dominates the surrounding landscape. 

Most people just enjoy the view from Kirkjufellsfoss where you can capture both the waterfall and the mountain in one photograph. Though it’s possible to climb the mountain it must be done with a guide. 

If Northern Lights viewing is on your Iceland winter itinerary, the dark skies and imposing nature of the mountain make Kirkjufell an ideal spot to enjoy the lights when conditions are appropriate.

Book Here: Snaefellsnes Peninsula And Kirkjufell Day Trip

Stop 2: Admire The Unique Londrangar Rock Formation Along The Coast

Londrangar is a short but picturesque stop best viewed from a distance to capture the complete picture of the rocks contrasted with the crashing waves of the Atlantic.

The existence of these castle-like remains of volcanic plugs is a testament to the power and resilience of nature.

Enjoy watching the seabirds riding the thermals and the sounds of the world around you that somehow manage to be simultaneously noisy and peaceful. It’s beautiful in any season, making it a perfect stop for your Iceland winter trip.

Once you’ve taken in the view from afar, you can choose to get a closer look at the unusual rock formations by starting at the lighthouse at Malarrif and making your way over.

Stop 3: Make Your Way Across Arnarstapi’s Natural Bridge

Have you ever wanted to walk across a natural bridge with the ocean waves gently lapping below you? Now’s your chance to add it to your Iceland itinerary for winter. 

The small fishing village of Arnarstapi is home to an impressive natural bridge that’s wide enough for you to comfortably walk over. 

The bridge isn’t always the easiest to find (it’s not Gatklettur, an arched rock you’ll come across earlier along the coastline), but as you continue along the coast from the stone statue of the half-troll/half-man Bardur Snaefellsas, past Gatklettur, to the sign labeled “Midgja,” you’ll find the bridge.

Stop 4: Embrace The Moody Darkness Of The Búdir Black Church

The Búdir Black Church is the ideal place for moody photographs. It’s a striking sight any time of year but is particularly perfect for an Iceland winter itinerary when the black of the church is contrasted with the surrounding landscape blanketed in snow. 

This church has stood in various forms of disrepair and reconstruction since 1703. With the ocean on one side and mountains and glaciers on the other, its isolation within a small village makes it particularly unique.

Add Iceland’s often gloomy weather conditions and the surrounding church graveyard and you have yourself quite the eerie but fascinating site. 

Where To Stay On The Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Mid-range:  Hotel Rjúkandi . Check rates: Booking.com

Mid-range/Luxury: Miðhraun – Lava Resort Check rates: Booking.com

Day 7: Reykjavik, Blue Lagoon, And Sky Lagoon

The final day of your 7-day winter Iceland Itinerary has the potential to be the most relaxing. You’ll have the option of visiting two of Iceland’s most luxurious geothermal baths while sipping on a drink and reminiscing about your trip. 

Follow that up with a stroll through the colorful streets of Reykjavik as you learn about Iceland’s rich history and culture. With all the amenities and conveniences of a larger city, you’re sure to enjoy your time in the capital. 

Stop 1: Soak In The Healing Waters Of The Blue Lagoon

At this point, the Blue Lagoon is practically synonymous with Iceland. It’s an iconic tourist spot that has evolved over the years from a local hangout to a luxury tourist destination. 

Mineral-rich waters, a swim-up bar, and a striking lava rock backdrop make for an ideal day of relaxation. Even the most basic entry ticket is pricey, but it’s worth experiencing at least once in your life. 

If you’d like to make a soak in the milky-blue water of the lagoon a part of your Iceland winter itinerary, you’ll need to make sure you book your tickets weeks if not months in advance. 

Book Here: Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon Small-Group Tour

Stop 2: Enjoy A Seven Step Spa Ritual At The Sky Lagoon

What’s better than a luxury bathing experience in geothermally heated waters in the land of fire and ice? Not even having to leave the capital to have this unforgettable experience. 

The Sky Lagoon is a newer addition to Iceland’s geothermal pool landscape, but one that has quickly become a favorite of both locals and visitors alike. 

Rugged rock walls, an infinity pool that offers stunning views of the ocean, and a swim-up bar make the Sky Lagoon an enticing place to recover from your adventurous Iceland winter trip. 

The seven-step ritual however is what truly sets it apart from other luxury bathing experiences such as the Blue Lagoon.

The seven-step ritual begins with a soak in the lagoon, followed by a cold plunge, a 10-minute sauna experience, a cold fog-mist, the use of an exfoliating body scrub, the steam room, and finally a shower, and additional time spent enjoying the lagoon. 

Book Here: Sky Lagoon Entrance Pass With 7-Step Spa Ritual

Stop 3: Explore The Landmarks and Museums In The Reykjavik City Center

One week in Iceland in winter is best spent road-tripping through the country’s unique and impressive natural landscape, but the charming capital city of Reykjavik can be a welcome change of pace. 

Downtown on Laugavegur and the surrounding streets you’ll find restaurants, cafes, bars, and souvenir shops.

Reykjavik is also home to some of Iceland’s most fascinating museums such as the Arbær Open Air Museum which displays old Icelandic sod roof buildings as well as the Maritime Museum on the harbor.

Before leaving, you’ll want to visit one of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks, the Hallgrímskirkja Church which offers stunning views of Reykjavik and beyond. 

Book Here: Reykjavik Icelandic Food Tour

Where To Stay In Reykjavik

Mid-range:  Hotel Vera . Check rates: Booking.com

Luxury: Kvosin Downtown Hotel . Check rates: Booking.com

Luxury: Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel . Check rates: Booking.com

We’re thrilled you’ve chosen to spend one week in Iceland in winter. Whether you’re arriving at the start of winter or are planning an Iceland Itinerary for February, you’re visiting at a truly magical time of year. 

If you have the full seven days to explore, this Iceland itinerary in winter will help you maximize your trip. If you’re working with limited time, feel free to pick and choose stops as you see fit.

If you have any questions as you begin planning, please let us know in the comments section.

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Iceland in December: the self-drive travel guide

December is a very popular month for travel, with many people getting time off work for the Christmas holidays. It’s a great time to take a family vacation, and there are some fantastic things to see and do in Iceland during the month. If you’re planning on visiting Iceland in December, a self-drive trip is the way to go. Driving yourself gives you and your group the freedom to travel at your own pace and see all the sights that are most important to you.

This travel guide will cover everything you need to know about visiting Iceland in December. It is specially geared toward tourists who want to rent and car and drive around the island themselves.

• Related link: Rent a 4WD vehicle for your December Iceland road trip

Table of content

• The weather of Iceland in December: temperature, daylight hours
• Road conditions in December Iceland
• The best rental car recommendation in Iceland for a December road trip
• December Iceland packing list
• Is December a good time to visit Iceland? why or why not?
• The best things to do in Iceland in December

Best events in Iceland in December

Picture of iceland in december, what is the weather like in iceland in december.

As you may expect, it can get pretty chilly in Iceland in December, but it may not be as cold as you’d expect. The weather can be hard to predict during the winter, but you’ll likely get a white Christmas. December also has the shortest days of the year.

The average temperature 

The average temperature in Iceland in December is between -2°C (28°F) and 4°C (39°F).

The daylight hours 

In December, daylight hours in Iceland fall between 11am and 4pm.

How cold is Iceland in December?

If you’re not used to spending time in temperatures around the freezing mark, then you might find it very cold in December, especially during high winds or snow storms.

What are the road conditions like in Iceland in December?

In December, there will be snow in most of Iceland, so be prepared for slippery conditions, even on main roads. During this month, the Highland won’t be accessible, and the fjords areas will be more challenging to drive, but not impossible as long as you have a suitable rental vehicle. That includes the west and east fjords.

If you’re visiting in December, we recommend sticking to the Golden Circle or Ring Road route as they are well maintained and safer to drive overall. But even on the more accessible routes around South Iceland and Snaefellsnes, the roads can still be snowy and slippery, so always drive cautiously.

What is the best rental car in Iceland for a December road trip in Iceland?

We highly recommend renting a 4WD vehicle when doing a self-drive tour of Iceland in December. Since you will encounter snow and slippery conditions, a 4X4 is essential to keep you and your group safe. Additionally, you’ll want to consider how large your group is and how much luggage you’ll be bringing so you can choose the most suitable size of 4WD to rent. These include economy , compact , intermediate , or full-size .

What to wear in Iceland in December?

December is one of the coldest months of the year in Iceland and can also be quite wet. When choosing what to pack for your trip, comfort and warmth should be at the top of your priority list. Since most activities are outdoors, ensure that you have durable, waterproof outwear and warm underlayers. Here are some of the most essential things to pack for your December Iceland road trip:

• Waterproof snow boots/hiking boots
• A waterproof backpack
• Thick socks
• Wind and waterproof winter jacket
• Thermal underlayers (tops and bottoms)
• Hat (windproof)
• Thick, fleece sweater
• Swimsuit (for hot springs)
• Active pants (avoid jeans except to go out to eat)

Is December a good time to visit Iceland?

December is an excellent time to visit Iceland. As long as you can brave the cold temperatures, you’ll have the opportunity to experience things you can’t experience in the summer months. So, what makes Iceland so great in December?

1. Inexpensive flights and accommodation

Flying to Iceland in December is inexpensive. Although December is a month where many families have holidays, both from work and school, Iceland is not a typical family destination in the winter. Since the demand is lower, the price for flights, accommodation, and tours are lower. You’ll also have more options regarding where you want to stay and won’t have to worry about tours being all booked up. Make sure to use flight and hotel comparison sites to find the best deals.

2. Best chance to see the northern lights

One of the top reasons people come to Iceland is to get a glimpse of the northern lights , and December is the best month to do that. Since there are fewer daylight hours, you have many more opportunities to see them than you would if you were visiting in other months of the year.

3. It’s less busy

Fewer tourists visit Iceland in the month of December, which is a huge perk. Popular attractions like the Blue Lagoon, Skógafoss Falls, and Seljalandsfoss Falls will be virtually empty, so you can enjoy them without huge crowds.

4. Enjoy beautiful sunrises and sunsets

In December, the sunrises are late, and the sunsets are early. In the summer, there are nearly 22 hours of daylight, meaning you can’t really catch a sunrise or sunset. With all the glaciers reflecting the light, December gives you a chance to see some of the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets.

Best things to do in Iceland in December

Are you curious about what different things you can do in Iceland in December? Here are our top six recommendations:

See the northern lights

It’s no surprise that the top activity on our list is seeing the northern lights in Iceland in December. The Aurora Borealis is one of nature’s most extraordinary phenomena, and many people visit Iceland hoping to see it. The light show occurs when electrons collide with other gaseous particles in the atmosphere. But whether you see it or not is entirely up to chance and never guaranteed. That said, you have a higher chance of seeing them in December.

Snowmobiling

December is a great month to go snowmobiling in Iceland. Snowmobiling on Iceland’s iconic glaciers and lakes is the perfect activity for adventurous thrill-seekers. There’s no better way to take in the mountainous, volcanic landscapes than on a snowmobiling tour. While you can snowmobile on many glaciers throughout the year, winter is the only time you’ll be able to snowmobile over the frozen lakes, making the experience extra special.

*Please bring your driving licences with you for the snowmobiling tour; the guide might want to check your driving licences if you will be the snowmobile driver.

Recommended snowmobiling tours in Iceland for December

Some of the best places to go snowmobiling in December include Langjökull Glacier, Lake Mývatn, and Vatnajökull Glacier. All these areas are in different parts of Iceland, so you can easily combine one with the rest of your self-drive tour, whether you’re doing the Golden Circle , West Iceland, or the entire Ring Road .

Glacier blue ice caving

If you’ve looked at Iceland pictures, you’ve undoubtedly seen the gorgeous glacier blue ice caves. But these iconic blue ice caves can only be accessed in the winter. So if you’re coming to Iceland in December, you’re in luck! It needs to be very cold to ensure the ice is solid and the caves are safe to enter. You will need to take a guided tour with a professional guide to visit blue ice caves since they constantly change as glaciers shift and temperatures change. They can break and collapse if the temperature goes above freezing, so it’s important you’re with a professional who can recognize these signs. You will also need special equipment to navigate the caves safely. Glacier caves are different from regular ice caves in that they are caves formed within a large block of ice, not rock.

Recommended glacier blue ice cave tours

The best glaciers in Iceland to go glacier blue ice caving are those located within Vatnajökull glacier. You will likely have seen these in pictures, and they include the waterfall cave, blue diamond cave, and crystal cave. There are also glacier caves in Katla glacier, but they are smaller and much darker in colour.

Glacier hiking

There are many different places to experience glacier hiking in Iceland, making it a great activity to add to any Iceland self-drive itinerary, regardless of the length of your trip. Many glacier hikes are within a short drive from Reykjavik, so you can even do one as a day trip. Some great glaciers for glacier hiking include Sólheimajökull glacier, Vatnajökull glacier, and Langjökull Glacier.

Recommended Glacier hiking tours in Iceland

You should always book a tour to do a glacier hike as, similar to the caves, you need special equipment to walk on the ice. As you can imagine, they can be very slippery. On top of that, glaciers are constantly shifting and cracking, so professionals can help guide you effectively across the ice. Glacial hiking is a family-friendly activity, provided children are at least 8 years old.

Visit the Blue Lagoon and other hot springs

What’s better than stepping into a steaming hot tub in the middle of winter? How about stepping into a natural hot spring in the middle of beautiful Iceland? The Blue Lagoon is the most famous geothermal spa in all of Iceland, and it’s perfect for warming your cold bones after a day out exploring. Iceland has many hot springs because of all the geothermal activity. Hot water bubbles up from under the ground, but where this happens is impossible to control. That’s why some of Iceland’s hot springs are hard to reach, while others you can visit by car.

Recommended hot springs in Iceland

Some of the best hot springs in Iceland you can get to with your rental car include Reykjadalur, Myvatn Nature Baths, and Seljavallalaug.

Icelandic horse riding

Icelandic horse riding is a unique way to experience the landscape of Iceland. Not many people get to ride in fresh snow on these majestic creatures. The horses are bred to thrive in the colder temperature, even developing a thick winter coat and putting on extra weight. In December, it’s best to book an Icelandic horse riding tour in the south of the island, as temperatures are typically milder than in the north. Plus, some northern tour operators don’t run tours in the north of Iceland during the winter as it’s harder to access.

Recommended Hourse riding tours in Iceland

There are many different Icelandic horse riding tours to choose from, with different lengths to suit each group.

Iceland is one of the best places to be in December because of its love of Christmas and the unique Icelandic way of celebrating, which of course, involves Icelandic folklore.

Advent begins the fourth Sunday before Christmas Eve and marks the day when Icelanders start lighting their Christmas trees. If you’re here on this day, you can watch the huge Oslo Christmas Tree lit at Austurvollur in Reykjavik.

During Advent, from December 12th to December 24th, The Yule Lads begin to make their public appearances at celebrations around the country. Instead of the classic tradition of Santa Claus coming to town, Iceland has 13 mischievous, dirty trolls called The Yule Lads. Traditionally, they were quite grotesque, and their mother and her cat would eat children. The stories are a bit less horrific, so they don’t scare the children.

Each of the 13 Yule Lads has their own special antic, from stealing milk to licking bowls and spoons. You can try to spot them all when visiting Reykjavik during the month of December. They will be at the National Museum of Iceland every day between December 12th and 24th.

New Years celebration

If you are in Iceland on December 31st, then you will get to experience the amazing New Years’ Eve celebrations. Reykjavik is the place to be, with world-renowned fireworks displays that start a few days before New Year’s. Go to Hallgrímskirkja church or Perlan to see the best display on New Year’s Eve.

Here is what you can expect to see in Iceland in December.

Visiting Iceland in December is great for many reasons. Not only are flights, hotels, and tours cheaper, but many popular attractions will be a lot quieter, so you’ll be able to enjoy them more. Just because it’s not high season doesn’t mean there isn’t a ton to do; from seeing the northern lights to snowmobiling on frozen lakes, you’ll have unique opportunities that you won’t get any other time of year. Book a car with Hertz Iceland in advance to secure the best deal on the most suitable car for your self-drive trip to Iceland at Hertz Iceland.

Recommended vehicles for December Iceland

Land Rover Defender Plug-in Hybrid or similar | Automatic | 4×4

Pfai | group: l6 (pfai).

• Airconditioning

Suitable for highlands, Please read the Terms & Conditions. You must be 25 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features

• 3 Large Luggage
• 4 Wheel Drive
• 77 C0 2  g/km
• Adjustable Steering
• Cruise Control
• Electronic Stability Control
• Power Steering
• Power Windows
• Remote Locking

Tesla Model Y or similar | Automatic | 4×4

Ugdc | group: v1 (ugdc).

This vehicle is NOT allowed in the highlands F-roads. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

• 4 Large Luggage
• Traction Control

Skoda Octavia Wagon or similar | Automatic | 4×4

Iwan | group: p (iwan).

This vehicle is NOT allowed in the highlands F-roads. But It is permitted on roads no.35 and 550.

• Petrol or Diesel
• 153 C0 2  g/km

KIA Sportage or similar | Automatic | 4×4

Ifar | group: o (ifar).

Suitable for the highlands. Please read Terms & Conditions. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

• 156 C0 2  g/km

KIA Sorento or similar | Automatic | 4×4

Sfan | group: o2 (sfan).

Suitable for the highlands. Please read Terms & Conditions. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

• 164 C0 2  g/km

5 seats Toyota Land Cruiser or similar| Automatic | 4×4

Ffar | group: i (ffar).

• 5 Large Luggage
• 251 C0 2  g/km

Manage Booking

Chase the Midnight Sun: Iceland and Canada tours available now!

Iceland in December: All You Need to Know

Get in a festive mood during the shortest days.

What to Do in Iceland in December

• Things to Do
• Things to See
• Events & Festivals
• Things to Know
• Weather in December
• What to Pack

Related tours

Related blog posts.

December in Iceland has the least daylight, but the largest selection of festive activities. It’s the low season for tourism, but it doesn’t mean any less fun! Read on about the locals’ favorites leading up to Christmas and prepare to celebrate in Icelandic style.

Things to Do in Iceland in December

Soak in hot pools.

Enjoy the Northern Lights while soaking in a hot pool

With nearly 20 swimming pools in Reykjavik alone and many more hot springs around the country, Iceland offers plenty of swimming opportunities. A relaxing dip in a steaming geothermal pool with a drink in your hand, on a dark Icelandic night is deeply satisfying. And it’s even more special when it snows. 

Not packing a swimsuit on a winter visit to Iceland would be a big mistake!

Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Combo Tour

Sky Lagoon- Admission Tickets

Golden Circle & the Blue Lagoon Admission

Go ice skating at ingólfstorg square.

Ice skating gets you in a festive mood

There’s no better way to get into a festive mood than ice skating! The famous  Ingólfstorg square in downtown Reykjavik turns into a winter wonderland for the entire month of December. The ice rink and surrounding Christmas market guarantee a merry atmosphere. Strap on your ice skates and prepare to glide with good old Christmas songs playing in the background.

Admission is free if you bring your own skates and helmets (or rent them onsite).

SNORKEL AT SILFRA FISSURE

The water in Silfra Fissure is incredibly pure!

If you think that snorkeling is only a summer activity,  come to Silfra in the winter ! Here at Silfra Fissure, snorkelers and divers can explore the underwater world between tectonic plates all year round. Snowy fields at Thingvellir National Park add an extra spark to winter snorkeling experiences. To make it even more idyllic, a cup of hot chocolate at the end of the dip quickly warms up those who feel a little chilly.

Silfra Fissure Snorkeling Day Tour

Golden Circle & Snorkeling Tour

Silfra Snorkeling & Lava Cave Tour

Things to see in iceland in december.

Icelandic ice caves never cease to amaze

Ice caves are the most stable during December, one of the coldest months. It means that you’ve got the best chances to see the true beauty of glacier ice from inside the caves and not get your feet wet.

Iceland offers plenty of ice-caving opportunities. Explore an ice cave under an active volcano , visit a man-made ice tunnel or pierce the heart of the blue Crystal ice cave .

Crystal Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajökull Glacier with Super Jeep ride

Inside the Glacier - Blue Ice & Glacier Hike Tour in Skaftafell

"Into the glacier" - World's Largest Ice Tunnel

The northern lights.

Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights

December is one of the best months to see the Northern Lights in Iceland. With little daylight, the dark sky allows plenty of opportunities to watch the natural phenomenon. If you’re lucky you may catch a glimpse of auroras in the sky above you while relaxing in a hot pot. That’s a one-of-a-kind experience! 

Make sure to check the aurora forecast before you go on the Northern Lights hunt in December. The stronger the aurora, the more impressive lights will paint the sky.

Super Jeep Northern Lights Hunt

8 Days in Iceland & Northern Lights Tour

Magical Auroras - Northern Lights Tour with minibus

Events and festivals in iceland in december.

There are a lot of exciting events happening in Iceland during December, not to mention the biggest year’s celebrations – Christmas and New Year. 

Christmas in Iceland

Christmas celebration in Iceland is a huge thing with its own unique traditions. What does Icelandic Christmas look like? First of all, the Icelandic kids are visited not by one but by 13 Santas! Icelandic Santas, known as “Yule Lads,” are actually trolls dressed up as Santas. Yule Lads are an inseparable part of Icelandic Christmas. Each of these trolls is known for mischievous traits, like licking dirty spoons, slamming doors, or stealing food.

Would you like to meet the Yule Lads?

During Christmas time, Reykjavik's streets are filled with lights and decorations. You'll hear the phrase "Gledileg jol!" meaning "Merry Christmas" everywhere you go. 

New Year’s Eve in Iceland

New Year’s Eve is a huge deal in Iceland. On this occasion, people fill the streets of Reykjavik to watch the incredible fireworks. The festive mood is everywhere you look. 

The end of the old year and the beginning of the new one is celebrated by a 10-kilometer run through Reykjavik. What’s peculiar about this run is that its participants are dressed in costumes, and the best costume even gets a prize! After a run, everyone gathers in Harpa for some refreshments.

Harpa is a famous event venue in Reykjavik

Winter Solstice

December 21st marks the darkest day of the year, and Icelanders have a very special way of mentioning it. On this day every year, the Imagine Peace Tower is being relit until New Year’s Eve on December 31st. 

The light installation was created by Yoko Ono in memory of John Lennon. The monument, standing on Viðey Island in Kollafjörður Bay, has the words “Imagine Peace” written in 24 languages.

What to Know Before Visiting Iceland in December

Iceland might be cheaper in december.

December is the low season for tourism, so you’re more likely to find cheap flights to Iceland just before Christmas or right after. Some of the other activities in the city might also be cheaper, as well as day tours and entrance fees to certain attractions. On the other hand, make sure to check the opening times for museums and swimming pools, as they might be open shorter than during the summer days. Also, keep in mind that festive days might affect the opening times too.

Days are the shortest

Every day in December has around four hours of daylight, and the 21st of December is the shortest day of the year. How do Icelanders deal with short days? The answer is simple — they make the most of the daylight and don’t worry about the darkness. Sightseeing, while the sun is up, and immersing in steaming geothermal pools when the sky goes dark, might just be the answer!

Christmas traditions

Iceland has special Christmas traditions

To get in the true Christmas spirit, follow Icelandic Christmas traditions! Why don’t you place a shoe in the window for the Yule Lads to leave presents in? Or craft a delicious Laufabrauð with your friends or family? Iceland has plenty of traditions to get you into the festive spirit. 

Oh, and if you truly want to commit to these traditions, don’t forget to wear warm clothes on Christmas Eve, just to avoid being gobbled by the Christmas Cat.

New Year’s Eve

Fireworks at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon are impressive!

If you head out to celebrate the New Year at 10:30 pm on New Year's Eve and there’s not a single soul outside, don’t worry, you didn’t mix-up the dates. Everyone’s at home, watching Áramótaskaupið, Iceland’s annual comedy special that glues most of the nation to their televisions. 

As soon as the show is over, around midnight, everyone heads out and the real party begins. Prepare for plenty of fireworks, bonfires, and smiley faces! Icelanders know how to celebrate the New Year.

Iceland Weather in December

Icelandic roads in December get very icy

December is one of the coldest months in Iceland. The average temperature varies from 28 ° F ( -2°C ) to 49 °F (4°C). It can feel rather frosty outside the city because the wind is quite harsh, so we recommend you don’t get tricked by these seemingly mild temperatures. Just like during any other month in Iceland, you can never tell what the weather will be like. 

If you’re a fan of white Christmas’, you’re likely to get that in Iceland. Just keep in mind that snow and ice can get very thick, especially in rural areas. Be especially careful while driving in Iceland in December. If you don’t feel comfortable driving a rental car, the best idea is to join guided multi-day tours or go on a day trip, where you won’t have to worry about road conditions.

What to Pack for Iceland in December

Make sure you dress for the weather!

There’s only one rule when it comes to packing your clothes for Iceland, and it also applies when you travel to Iceland in December. Dress in layers. The more layers you dress in, the more comfortable you’ll be, no matter the weather. Remember this golden rule and also consider packing:

• A Warm Jacket
• Waterproof Winter Shoes
• Gloves and a warm hat
• A Balaclava

While there’s not much daylight in December, the sun gets pretty intense during that short time when it’s up. Packing a pair of sunglasses is also a good idea!

Best Tours in Iceland for December

Glacier Hike at Vatnajokull

Welcome to Iceland’s natural winter wonderland! On this glacier hiking tour, step on Falljökull Glacier. The ever-changing ice cap will surprise you with its ice formations and crevasses. Explore in the shadow of Iceland’s highest mountain, Hvannadalshnúkur.

Falljökull hiking tour departs from Skaftafell Nature Reserve and is available to beginners as

Ice Cave Tour from Jokulsarlon

Iceland’s South Coast has a lot to offer, but some of the best gems are hidden well underneath the surface. On this tour, you’ll visit the crystal ice cave lying deep inside a massive glacier. This natural wonder enchants its visitors with vivid colors and a dancing light show inside the cave.

Weather in December might cause unexpected surprises, such as road closures. But on this tour, that’s not an issue. We’ll pick you up from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in a super jeep that doesn’t need any roads.

Five-day South Coast, Snæfellsnes and Northern Lights Tour

Make the most of the short days by traveling around the South Coast and exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. This 5-day adventure combines the highlights of the Golden Circle, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a visit to an ice cave, and the best sights on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, among others! 

To make it the perfect winter tour, you’ll also hunt for the Northern Lights, that might appear at any point of the ride. Keep your eyes peeled and prepare for a holiday that will stick in your memory for a long time.

Iceland looks like a natural winter wonderland most times of the year, but December turns it into a joyful Christmas fairytale. Visit Iceland in December to get in the festive spirit. Who knows, you may even get presents from the 13 mischievous Yule Lads. Even if you don't, make the most of Icelandic winter with our winter tours !

Best Seller

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5 Day South Coast and Snæfellsnes Peninsula Tour

Best Time to Visit Ice Caves in Iceland

Learn about ice caves in iceland and when to visit them.

Visiting ice caves in Iceland is definitely a unique experience. Some think it can only be experienced in winter, lie the Northern Lights, which is not entirely true. So, what is the best time to visit ice caves in Iceland?

5-Day Iceland Winter Itinerary

Explore the best of iceland with this 5-day winter itinerary.

From spectacular landscapes to witnessing the northern lights, Iceland in winter is an experience of a lifetime. Traveling to this winter wonderland is surely going to be an otherworldly adventure.

Is it Better to Visit Iceland in the Summertime or the Wintertime?

Find out when it's the best to visit iceland.

Iceland boasts many breathtaking natural attractions that can be enjoyed year-round. However, some unique activities can only be enjoyed seasonally. This raises the question of whether it is better to visit.

Get exclusive deals and a taste of Iceland and Canada straight to your inbox each month

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Iceland Tours in December 2024

• Apr '24
• May '24
• Jun '24
• Jul '24
• Aug '24
• Sep '24
• Oct '24
• Nov '24
• Dec '24
• Jan '25
• Feb '25
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97 Iceland trips in December 2024

• Christmas & New Year

Iceland Discovery

seamless, no glitches, hiccups or issues from booking entirely online...whenever i texted w questions, they got right back....an awesome value for my money... am planning next year already!!!! thank you for wonderful experience

• Northern Lights

Iceland Northern Lights & Golden Circle

Brilliant trip that included all the highlights of Iceland!

6 Day - Around Iceland Adventure

The overall journey was amazing. A lot was packed into those 6 days. The cabins were small for the most part, but they were clean and the beds were comfortable. I especially enjoyed the wilderness center. There was a lot to offer there. The hotel in Akureyrie was luxurious. It might have been nice to do a cultural event there. Whale watch and the baths were exceptional. But most of all, the guide made everything fantastic. His knowledge of Iceland, history, poets and authors, geological history, and all done with good humour. I enjoyed our tour with Siggy very much.

8 Days Northern Lights Exploration

All the activities were great, the guide was very nice and had a big knoweldge of Iceland. The bus and the hôtels were very good. The travels between the airport and the hôtel (coming and back) were well organized.

Iceland Escape

It was a great time. Everything was easily followed and organized well. Only drawback was the weather, and not being able to see the northern lights during our time. All things considered, will definitely be going back to Iceland.

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

8 Days Guided Iceland Circle

It was an excellent trip for the value. Our guide was a wealth of information and friendly. our driver was very smooth and amazing on her ability to know exactly where the buses body was in some tight parking lots as well as handling everyone's bags and by second day recognized whose bag was whose. Would recommend better communication between front desk of hotel about pick-up for first day. The main office may have known time and location but front desk persons did not have that information.

7 Day - Iceland Ring Road & Snæfellsnes Peninsula Small-Group Tour

We had the best time on our ring road tour (6 days) and then the additional 1 day Snaefellsnes Peninsula tour! Our driver & guide for the 6 day tour, Arndís, was incredible. She was extremely knowledgeable & also a very capable driver too (even on some very snowy/icy roads). We had a wonderful small group and loved exploring Iceland on this tour! 😊

Northern Lights Escape

Every detail of our Northern Lights tourradar tour was fantastic. Our tour guide (Stefano) was AMAZING, and everything was even better than what we had imagined (other than the Northern Lights not appearing due to weather). NO complaints what-so-ever.

• Hiking & Trekking

Three Days in Iceland: Reykjavik & Snæfellsnes Peninsula

3 days but we only had one day adventure!

5 Day - Snaefellsnes, South Coast and Northern Lights

I loved our late December tour. I would recommend it and would do it again. There are two things that I wished I had known before the trip. 1) Obviously the Northern Lights are difficult to predict. I didn't realize though that ratings for the intensity that, range from 0-9, that 1-3 which is most common are also not visible to the naked eye only the camera. So even though I technically "saw" the lights as my camera showed them, emotionally it doesn't feel like it. 2) Since the days are so short, there is a lot of chasing sunlight feeling. It wasn't bad, but it basically means that you have like 30 mins at a beach or waterfall before heading to the next destination. It felt like a photo scavenger hunt race. Walk briskly out to these beautiful views, snap a dozen rapid photos and selfies, then race back to the bus. Along these lines, the part that was poorly communicated, was that because we were racing the daylight, that we nearly always ended up grabbing a gas station lunch and eating in the bus. It is fine, but I wished I had known going in. When the tour description says lunch in "x" town, that is clearly the longer season description, when daylight lasts 12 hours, not 4. The glacier hike was the highlight of the trip. The ice cave is interesting, but the real excitement is walking in the blue ice crevasses on the glacier.

Six Days in Iceland

Iceland Circle - 8 Days

What a fantastic experience! You can definitely get the feel of this breathtaking country in 8 days. The guide was very knowledgeable and funny and happy to answer all our questions. The booking process was very smooth and easy. Thank you Terri for recommending this tour to us, it was definitely a highlight of our honeymoon :)

8 Day - Iceland Ring Road Tour

Artic Adventures 8  Day Ring Rd Tour Artic Adventures offered a well rounded 6 day tour of the Island.Central office provided excellent email communications and corrected errors on dates of lodging quickly when brought to their attention. Van for travel was clean,comfortable, ample room under seats and above bins for rental equipment and personal items for the 15 in our group.Charging port, phone holder with pull down tray included in the newer van.Luggage was placed in Uhaul trailer the van pulled behind,tour guide always put the luggage in and out .Our Tour Guide/ Van driver Almar  "Al" had a love for his country that just shined!Our guided tour with crampons at a Glacier was guided by Michael.He was very personable,explained and assisted when needed.He took our tour at the pace we could handle learning a new skill.Whale watching was a tour of a few groups on the ship.Top deck provided a view for about 12 people and the rest of 25 or so had to often miss the show as the boat was often head on instead of turning to allow those on main deck a good view. Back on the van,Al had an enormous amount of information on all the parks,history of landmarks, and a never ending wealth of patience to our countless questions! Everyday he provided the itinerary ,housing for the evening and information on where we could eat during the mid day and evening.Frequent stops every hour or aso were provided for bathroom breaks and drinks.Al encouraged us to switch seats every day to allow a different view for all.He helped us to discover the Northern Lights and invited us out to view them, every night. Al united our diverse group and we are still communicating with each other. The tour had many adventures, an Icelandic Horse Farm visit, an extra fee for Thermal pool swim as well as a beautiful daily waterfall,parks,beaches,hot springs, iceberg coves, seals,and old Volcanic sites.Would highly recommended this tour.

Land of the Northern Lights - 5 days

The tour was great with a knowledgeable driver/guide. Saw a lot and came home with a lot of memories and a desire to go back and see more.

8 Day - Iceland Northern Lights Tour

Very happy with the tour guide and how he showed and told stuff. I found the 2 nights I stayed in reyikavik in a row in two different hotels and it cause some confusion and frustration. Overall very happy tour and enjoyed it a lot

What people love about Iceland Tours in December

Great attention to detail. Enthusiast tour leader. Loved the adventure!

It was an amazing experience! Our guide Thrust was the best! Thanks for taking us to such nice places.

Destinations

• South Iceland December 2024 (53)
• Iceland South Coast December 2024 (33)
• Northern Lights December 2024 (18)
• Iceland Northern Lights December 2024 (16)
• Iceland Golden Circle December 2024 (14)
• Scandinavia Northern Lights December 2024 (13)
• Iceland Ring Road December 2024 (8)
• West Iceland December 2024 (4)
• Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon December 2024 (5)
• Thingvellir National Park December 2024 (5)

Regions in Iceland

• South Iceland (53)
• Iceland South Coast (33)
• Northern Lights (18)
• Iceland Northern Lights (16)
• Iceland Golden Circle (14)
• Scandinavia Northern Lights (13)
• Iceland Ring Road (8)
• Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon (5)
• Thingvellir National Park (5)
• Spring 2024 tours (97)
• Summer 2024 tours (172)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 tours (182)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 tours (120)
• Spring 2025 tours (122)
• Summer 2025 tours (60)
• Fall / Autumn 2025 tours (74)
• Winter 2025 / 2026 tours (39)
• Iceland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Iceland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 10 Day Iceland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• What is the best time to visit Iceland in 2024/2025?
• Weather in Iceland in 2024/2025

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Tours In Iceland In December

Come join the locals in their Yuletide festivities and soak up the winter beauty of Iceland in December. The Reykjavík-based travel experts at Nordic Visitor will tailor your December tour to include all the sights and activities that you want to experience at this magical time of year.

TRAVEL TO ICELAND IN DECEMBER

Thinking about visiting Iceland in December? Then you’ve come to the right place!

With colourful festive lights everywhere and the locals getting into the holiday spirit, December is a great time to visit Iceland. What’s more, as it’s the middle of winter and night skies are dark, you could go on a northern lights tour .

Our Iceland experts can customise your itinerary to you. Explore Iceland on a small group tour or drive around the Ring Road on a  self-drive adventure . You might want to enjoy a privately guided trip or choose a multi-day tour .

Plus, when you book a trip to Iceland with Nordic Visitor, you get hand-picked accommodation, transportation reservations, daily breakfast and access to our 24/7 helpline. 

Get in touch  with us and we'll happily plan your perfect Iceland adventure. You can reach us via our toll-free numbers, contact form or LiveChat.

— WHY US?

Why book with nordic visitor.

• Hassle-free & seamless travel experience
• Flexible & customisable tour options
• Value for your money
• Professional service from local experts
• 24/7 emergency helpline during tour

Celebrate Christmas & New Year's in Iceland

Fireworks, feasts and fun! Join the locals during the festive season with one of these special Christmas and New Year's tours in Iceland.

A New Year’s to Remember

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Drive the Ring Road with peace of mind. We recommend these Iceland self-drive tours, designed specially for winter.

South Iceland at Leisure - Winter

South & west iceland classic - winter, christmas & new year’s in iceland, northern lights & new years eve fun, glacier lagoon & northern lights, iceland full circle at leisure - winter, south & west iceland at leisure - winter, south iceland & into the glacier - winter, golden circle & south coast - winter, south iceland classic - winter, travel with your own local guide.

Experience Iceland’s winter beauty and unique culture on your terms with one of these privately guided tours.

Northern Lights Circle Tour - Private

1217702 ISK

Winter Highlights - Private

Iceland luxury escape - winter, northern lights, south iceland & blue lagoon retreat.

1794264 ISK

South & West Iceland Classic Winter - Private

1220182 ISK

Enjoy a city break with day tours

Spend your nights in Reykjavik and your days visiting major attractions. Check out these multi-day tours.

Best of South Iceland - Winter

Golden circle, south coast & blue lagoon, golden circle classic - winter, golden circle, blue lagoon & northern lights, best of south & north iceland - winter, golden circle, south coast & lake mývatn, active iceland - winter, snowmobiling, ice tunnel & golden circle, classic south coast - winter, golden circle express - winter, local travel agency.

As a travel agency with offices in Reykjavík, Edinburgh, Stockholm and Lucerne, Nordic Visitor knows how to make the most of your time in Europe. Choose from a variety of carefully curated tours that include must-see attractions as well as lesser-known highlights.

You can also make customisations to your itinerary by adding extra nights, optional activities, or upgrades to your tour. Or ask your personal travel consultant for advice and they will tailor your itinerary. This way you get a travel experience that is perfectly suited to you. 

Your dedicated travel consultant will arrange all the local details for you. You get accommodation, activities, transport, and other services included in your package. If you need to rework your itinerary, we’ll handle it for you so you can relax and look forward to your getaway.

Getting to Iceland

All of Nordic Visitor’s tours of Iceland begin in Reykjavík, the capital. Keflavik International Airport is the gateway for international air travel in Iceland and is served by dozens of airlines. Furthermore, the airport serves as a hub for Icelandair’s transatlantic flights.

The following airlines fly to Keflavik International Airport (KEF) year-round: Icelandair, SAS, KLM, Norwegian, British Airways, EasyJet, Wizz Air and Finnair. Other airlines offer seasonal flights to KEF, including Delta, United Airlines, Air Canada and Lufthansa.

We recommend checking airline websites directly for flight availability and timetables. You can also use an airfare search engine, such as Skyscanner, Dohop or Kayak, for example.

Flights are not included in Nordic Visitor packages. However, all of our itineraries can be customised with extra nights in Reykjavík if you’d like to rest up after your flight.

Different ways you can experience Iceland

We have tours for all varieties of travel styles and interests. See our options for exploring Iceland below.

Guided Small Groups

Multi-day tours, privately guided, northern lights packages, self-drive winter, best seller, what do our customers say.

The reviews speak for themselves. See what Nordic Visitor travellers said about their experience with us.

Nathan, United States

South iceland at leisure - winter, december 2023.

We saw lots of waterfalls, beautiful landscapes and glaciers. We walked on black sand beaches and a glacier. It was incredible. All of the recommendations in our tour book gave us plenty of places to visit.

Michael, United States

South iceland classic - winter, november 2023, nothing short of phenomenal.

We loved everything about the tour and booking process. Normally, my wife and I would spend countless hours on research, rental cars, itinerary and hotels. To have that all done for us was well worth the price. The information packet provided at the airport was nothing short of phenomenal. The amount of suggestions, etc. provided gave us quite the list of things to choose from during our visit.

Sandra, United States

Northern lights circle tour - private, october 2023, smooth and enjoyable trip.

From the time of our first contact with Nordic Visitor, we have been expertly guided by our personal travel agent, Elena. We had lots of questions and changes, which she handled well, with timely communication, great suggestions, and excellent attention to details. Once in Iceland, our airport pick up and hotel were great, and very hospitable. For the private tour, our driver, Haflidi, was wonderful! He had a complete knowledge of the road and all the potential stops. His personal connections to many of the locations added a very individual dimension. He was extremely helpful, kind, and solicitous for our having a great Iceland adventure. Nordic Visitor made the whole trip smooth and enjoyable!

Meryl, United Kingdom

Golden circle classic - winter, december 2023, truly amazing.

We were first-time visitors to Iceland and a bit unsure of how to organise our trip to get the most from our short visit. Nordic Visitor took all of the uncertainty and organised everything on our behalf. The service was excellent and communications were always prompt, friendly and informative. Our holiday was truly amazing and memorable due to Nordic Visitor and the tour operators used by them. We would happily recommend Nordic Visitor and have already done so.

Christopher, Australia

Winter highlights - private, november 2023, warm and engaging guide.

Great tour. The sights are of course amazing and the tour made the most of our time, weather and our interests/priorities. Driver and guide David managed all of these very well. He was also very knowledgeable and personally warm and engaging. Could not have asked for more.

Mark, United States

Iceland full circle classic - winter, october 2023, nordic visitor made it easy.

Nordic Visitor made it easy to enjoy the natural wonders of Iceland without having to worry about any of the details! I was very impressed with the wonderful accommodation. Each unique and memorable in a different way. The itinerary booklet had the perfect balance of suggested plans and reference for optional stops. Thank you for the kind and helpful service!

Patricia, United States

Northern lights circle tour, november 2023, spectacular trip.

Spectacular trip! One beautiful vista after another. The tour progressed at a good pace and our guide, Haflidi, was so informative and handled every aspect with a smile and courteousness. I would, and have already, highly recommend this tour to everyone. A truly magnificent experience. Thank you Nordic Visitor! 

Zachary, United States

Active iceland - winter, november 2023, really enjoyed it.

We booked our trip for our honeymoon and enjoyed not having to worry about planning tours or forms of transportation. It was mostly organised and not stressful. We really enjoyed depending on Nordic Visitor.

Ina, Canada

Northern lights circle tour, march 2023, fantastic tour guide.

We thoroughly enjoyed every part of our tour package. Our tour guide, Dagur, was truly outstanding and did a fantastic job teaching us about Icelandic culture, geography, and history. I picked the small group tour option to avoid driving in the snow. When we reached eastern & northern Iceland and I saw the road conditions, I knew that I had made the right decision! Dagur was also an excellent driver who got us everywhere safely. I also want to make a special mention of my Nordic Visitor travel consultant, Margrét. She was very pleasant, organised and efficient in answering all my emails and arranging our travel plans.

Carmen, Canada

Golden circle & south coast - winter - private, november 2023, wonderful experience.

The Sky Lagoon and the two days spent with Julian as our guide, were the highlights of the trip. We thank Nordic Visitor for organising this, it was a wonderful experience for the whole family.

Virginia, United States

Glacier lagoon & northern lights, october 2023, we had a fantastic time.

We had a fantastic time and it was so nice to know that the details were arranged for us. The instructions were very clear in all instances. We loved the Sky Lagoon and the Katla Ice Cave tour which were extras, but very worthwhile! Thank you.

Colin, United States

A new year’s to remember, december 2022, we enjoyed everything.

We enjoyed everything! The hotel was excellent and very well located as most tours picked up just outside the hotel and many other points of interest were within a 10- to 20-minute walk. The Northern Lights tour was test of patience but we were lucky and saw a great show on the second night. The Golden Circle and glacier snowmobile was a test in endurance but extremely fun and satisfying. And the walking tour was very interesting and a different challenge, as the early morning snow and wind tested our resolve. Our group included a 10-year old, two folks in their 40s, and a 73-year old. All found it to be the trip to fill lifelong goals and memories.

Travel Guide

Be prepared for just about anything on your Icelandic adventure.

What to pack

Iceland’s weather is as varied as its incredible landscape. Whether you're planning a...

Climate & weather conditions

Iceland enjoys a cool temperate maritime climate thanks to the Gulf Stream, but the...

Winter driving in Iceland

Driving in Iceland is likely to be different than what you’re used to back home, even if you’re...

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Enjoy the slow & stunning drift of azure icebergs ..

Mýrdalsjökull Glacier

A majestic ice cap along the south coast

An idyllic seaside paradise

Blue Lagoon

Relax in this wonderful man made lagoon

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ICELAND IN DECEMBER

Depending on what you want to see and where you want to go, December might be the perfect month for your Iceland holiday . Read on to find out more with these answers to commonly asked questions about visiting Iceland in December.

How is Iceland in December?

Twinkling Christmas lights and dancing northern lights are just two of the things that make a trip to Iceland in December so special. Whether you want an activity-filled break in Reykjavík or a cosy winter getaway in the countryside, visiting Iceland in December is sure to make lasting memories.

What are the best things to do in Iceland in December?

There are so many exciting things to do in Iceland in December. This is a particularly special month to visit because it’s the festive season, with fun-filled parties, bonfires and fireworks displays aplenty.

What’s more, even with short daylight hours and winter weather conditions in December, you can still visit many of Iceland’s top natural attractions. Some of the unmissable highlights are waterfalls draped in ice, glaciers, hot springs and geothermal sites.

Here are 10 of the best things to do in Iceland in December:

• Enjoy a guided festive walk in Reykjavík
• Attend an exclusive New Year’s Eve Party
• Go on ice cave tours
• Snowmobile over glaciers
• Hunt for the northern lights
• Soak in hot tubs and swimming pools
• Venture along the Snæfellsnes peninsula
• See geothermal wonders and volcanoes
• Go horse riding or on a whale watching tour
• Walk along unusual black sand beaches

Cultural events in December Soaking up Icelandic culture is an enchanting experience at Christmastime. The whole month of December is an exciting time to be in the country, with plenty of colourful lights and festive food. You can have an unforgettable Christmas in Iceland.

New Year’s Eve is also a big celebration in Iceland. At midnight everyone steps outside, with champagne and sparklers, to watch the extraordinary fireworks displays. Many people stay up and party until the early hours of the morning!

We have a variety of Christmas packages and New Year tours to choose from. You could join a guided festive walk through downtown Reykjavík, admiring the twinkling lights while learning about Yuletide traditions. Or attend an exciting New Year’s Eve party, enjoying a three-course meal and songs around the bonfire.

Good to know: If you’re unsure about what you want to do in Iceland, don’t worry. Our Iceland experts are based in Reykjavík and know the country inside out. They’ll help you see Iceland your way, tailoring your itinerary by adding all the best excursions and experiences to suit you.

• Explore Iceland winter tour packages  to start planning your December trip
• Celebrate the festive season in Iceland with these Christmas packages and New Year tours

What are the best places to visit in Iceland in December?

The best places to visit in Iceland in December include waterfalls, hot springs, ice caves, glaciers and more. If you’re coming to hunt for the northern lights, head to remote locations where there is less light pollution. There are evening tours that can take you there from the capital, Reykjavík.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Iceland in December:

• Explore the lively capital, Reykjavík
• Drive or join a day tour of the Golden Circle route, including the Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir hot springs area and Þingvellir National Park
• Visit the village of Vík to see the interesting rock formations of Dyrhólaey
• Watch icebergs bobbing on the Jökulsárlón   glacier lagoon
• Discover the lunar landscapes of the Lake Mývatn , area
• See the “Capital of North Iceland”, Akureyri
• Roam around the Snæfellsjökull National Park
• Venture “into the glacier” at Langjökull

To keep occupied whilst in the capital, you may want to explore some of these fun indoor attractions too:

• Learn about volcanoes at the Lava Centre
• Try a flight simulation experience with FlyOver Iceland
• Experience earthquakes and visit the planetarium at Perlan

Where you go in Iceland depends on how much time you have to spend. If you are only staying for a few days, your best bet is to explore Reykjavík and the surroundings.

Want to spend a week or longer in Iceland in December? Then you’ll have time to journey around the country in a full circle to reach its many beautiful corners. As well as the southern and western regions, you can explore the east and north of Iceland too.

• Want more inspiration on where to go in December? Take a look at the 10 best places to visit in Iceland
• See the top sights on one of these best-seller Iceland tours

What is the weather like in Iceland in December?

December is the middle of winter in Iceland. On average there are highs of 4°C (39°F) and lows of -1°C (30°F). There may be rainy days during your Iceland holiday in December, with an average of 40mm of rainfall. It can also get quite windy.

The weather in Iceland is unpredictable, so prepare for the cold, wind and rain if you’re planning a trip for December!

What is the temperature in December in Iceland?

In Reykjavík and Akureyri, the average temperature in December is 1°C (34°F). Generally Iceland experiences highs of 4°C (39°F) and lows of -1°C (30°F).

Does it snow in Iceland in December?

It is not unusual to get snow in Iceland in December, especially at higher altitudes. In Reykjavík, snowfall rarely stays on the ground longer than a few days, but if there’s a cold snap the capital might be blanketed with snow.

• Find out more about Iceland’s climate with this weather guide
• Not sure when to go to Iceland? Read our ultimate guide to the best times to visit

What are the driving conditions in Iceland in December?

As it’s winter in Iceland in December, the roads can be icy. That said, you can still enjoy a self-drive tour. You will need to rent a sturdy 4x4 vehicle to drive in Iceland in December.

If you’re thinking about renting a car in Iceland, it’s important to come prepared for winter driving. Make yourself aware of road safety precautions before you travel. For example you must drive slowly in cold weather to avoid unseen ice, and turn your headlights on, day and night.

During your trip check weather and road conditions regularly. For your peace of mind, our team is on hand 24/7 should you need to contact us at any point. And if there is an unexpected event or severe weather, we’ll get in touch and modify your itinerary while keeping you safe and informed.

When you book a self-drive tour with Nordic Visitor , your car rental comes with collision damage waiver, a GPS, unlimited in-car Wi-Fi, and a hand-marked map of your route. You also get two named drivers on the insurance policy so you can share the driving with a travel companion.

• Browse winter self-drive tours in Iceland
• Prepare for winter driving in Iceland with this guide

What to pack for a trip to Iceland in December?

Iceland is famous for its ever-changing weather, so we advise that you be as prepared as possible. As December falls in the middle of winter, we recommend bringing warm layers to be ready for the cooler temperatures. That way you can enjoy the natural beauty of the country regardless of the weather.

Here is a list of packing essentials for your Iceland trip in December:

• An insulated or warm down jacket (it’s best if it is also waterproof)
• Fleece jumpers
• Lightweight wool underlayers
• Waterproof or winter trousers
• Thermal underwear and socks

As well as these essentials, be sure to bring good sturdy walking or hiking boots depending on what activities you may want to enjoy. Also, if you’re keen to experience the famous Blue Lagoon, remember to pack your swimwear and sandals.

What to wear in Iceland in December?

Icelanders have a saying: “There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing.”

In December you can expect colder weather, northerly winds and even snow. For that reason, you should dress with warm layers to be ready for anything. That way you can enjoy the beautiful sights without worrying about the temperatures and conditions.

Make sure to be dressed with an insulated winter jacket and warm under layers, as well as good sturdy boots.

It’s good to know that some outdoor excursions will provide the necessary winter clothing, such as warm overalls. But if you’d like to go snowmobiling, hiking or ice caving, make sure you’ve brought the clothing essentials with you, such as snow boots.

What are the daylight hours in Iceland in December?

December is the darkest month of the year in Iceland, as this is when the winter solstice occurs. You can expect between 3 and 5 hours of daylight in Iceland in December.

In mid-December the sun rises as late as 11:20 AM and sets at 3:30 PM in Reykjavík. In Akureyri the sunrise takes place at 11:40 AM and the sunset at 2:40 PM.

Can I see the northern lights in Iceland in December?

Yes, you can see the northern lights in Iceland in December. In order to spot the colours of the aurora borealis, you need the right solar activity, a clear, dark sky with few or no clouds, and low light pollution.

In winter the nights are longer and darker than in summer. December has more hours of darkness than any other month so you have a good chance of seeing them light up the night sky.

Due to the unpredictable nature of the northern lights, we unfortunately cannot promise you will see them on our tours. But the aurora is a natural marvel that continues to inspire awe and delight, and is definitely worth putting on your travel bucket list.

• Hunt for the aurora borealis on these Iceland northern lights tours
• Read this guide to the best times and places to see the northern lights in Iceland

How to tour Iceland in December?

There are various ways to travel on your Iceland tour in December. Depending on your personal tastes and requirements, you could either go for a guided or self-guided vacation.

Road trips in December For a self-guided journey through Iceland, you could opt for a road trip adventure. There are many self-drive tour routes to choose from in December. For shorter stays we recommend driving the Golden Circle in South Iceland or exploring the Snæfellsnes peninsula in the West.

If you have a week or more to spend in Iceland, drive around the Ring Road for a full loop of the country. This way you can visit virtually all the stunning corners of Iceland in one trip!

• View Iceland self-drive tour packages to start planning your road trip
• Find out how long it takes to drive around Iceland

Multi-day tours in December Another way to see Iceland on an independent tour is to base yourself in one or two locations, such as Reykjavík and Akureyri. You can then explore Iceland’s highlights on day trips.

A multi-day tour of Iceland is a great way to combine solo travel with guided excursions. You can fill your itinerary with as many tour-led activities as you wish!

• View multi-day guided tour packages to Iceland
• Discover the best Iceland tours to add to your itinerary with this guide

Privately guided tours in December On the other hand, you might prefer to be accompanied by a local expert throughout your Iceland experience. If so we recommend opting for a privately guided tour to have your own personal guide show you the best attractions. This is one of the most exclusive ways to see Iceland.

• View privately guided tour packages to Iceland
• Read this guide to the best things to do in Iceland on your private tour

Small group tours in December Or you could discover Iceland with like-minded visitors as part of a small group tour. You’ll get to meet people from around the world and learn from the expertise of a local guide, who will show you the most beautiful and fascinating parts of Iceland.

On a small group tour of Iceland in December, you could visit the popular south coast or travel around the Ring Road for an in-depth tour.

• View guided small group tours to Iceland
• Read our top Iceland travel tips for more expert advice

Good to know: Whichever of these travel styles you choose, you’ll get all the signature Nordic Visitor benefits. These include access to our 24/7 helpline, a detailed personal itinerary, helpful travel guide and daily breakfast.

Nordic Visitor will book all your accommodation, and you can add extra nights and activities to your itinerary too.

• Find out more about visiting Iceland earlier, in September , October or November
• Or visit Iceland later, in January , February or March

— OTHER DESTINATIONS

See more of northern europe.

• Like combining culture with nature? Discover Scandinavia
• Love the idea of a road trip? Venture to Scotland and Ireland
• Want to meet Santa Claus and try dog sledding? Head to Lapland
• Keen to go off the beaten track? Explore wild Greenland  and Svalbard

Our services

Whether you choose a guided tour or a self-drive vacation, all customers receive personalised service with a designated travel consultant , tailor-made quality travel documents, and our self-drive clients receive a hand-marked map that outlines their route, overnight stays and highlights along the way. Furthermore, Nordic Visitor has long-standing professional relationships with local tour operators , which are carefully selected by our staff and are recognized for consistent, quality service.

Book with confidence

• Protect your money & plans with our  flexible booking terms    .
• Get peace of mind with a 24/7 helpline during your stay.
• Enjoy personal service from Iceland-based travel experts.
• We’re here for you in case of unforeseen circumstances.
• 97% of customers say they’d recommend us to friends.
• As a local agency, we work closely with trusted suppliers.
• We’re a fully licensed and insured company in Iceland.

Whether you have queries about our tours or want to add activities to existing bookings, we’re here to help. Get in touch with our friendly team for any of your travel questions.

Our Icelandic phone number is +354 578 20 80

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

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Top 10 experiences to have in iceland, what to wear in iceland : your guide, driving iceland's ring road: all you need to know, in brief: spending a day in reykjavík.

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Iceland Winter Packing List: Everything You Need For Your Adventure

Packing for a winter trip is HARD, which is why an Iceland winter packing list is essential if you’re planning a trip to the land of fire and ice during this season.

Winter apparel is twice as bulky, taking up precious suitcase real estate, so you need to pack wisely.

If you’re not from a cold climate, you may not even know what you need to know in order to figure out what to pack until you do know – you know? 😜 

If that sounded confusing, don’t fret. I’m here to guide you on what to pack for Iceland in winter and make sure you’re completely covered – literally! 

You’ll get the intel about everything from what to wear to what electronics to bring and everything else in between.

It’s also super helpful to know what NOT to bring, and I’ll go over that too. Would you like a PRINTABLE Winter Packing List for Iceland?

Great news!  I created one just for you that you can snag for FREE! Not only will you get an itemized checklist, but my Ultimate Iceland Packing Guide includes weather summaries, layering advice, footwear recommendations, and shopping guides – you’ll have everything you need to pack like a pro.

So if you’d rather have this in PDF copy, just download it below. 👇🏼

Table Of Contents

Average Winter Temperatures in Iceland

How to pack for iceland.

• Wind & Waterproof Parka
• Hat/Headband
• Gloves 

What Else to Bring to Iceland in Winter

• What NOT to Pack for Iceland

Let’s get cracking!

Iceland Winter Weather

Before you start packing, let’s take a look at what kind of weather you can expect in winter.

In case you didn’t know: Winter in Iceland is looong! 

It generally lasts from November to March, and temperatures fluctuate depending on where you’re going.

Brace yourself for snow, wind, and rain. 

Temperatures vary from one region to the next and the north of the country is generally colder than the south.

The wind is frigid, making it feel much colder than it really is, and rainfall averages at about 100 mm (4in.)

If you’re wondering how cold Iceland is in winter, it generally ranges from -2 to 4 degrees Celsius, that’s 28-40 degrees Fahrenheit.  

Not as cold as you’d expect, right?

But, as I mentioned before, the wind chill will make it feel MUCH colder!

The coldest temperature recorded in Iceland in 50 years was December 2023, with Reykjavík reaching -4 degrees Celsius (24.8 degrees Fahrenheit)

So yeah, you want to come prepared for the worst-case scenario!

Make sure to download my Iceland Packing Guide to help you do just that. Not only will you get an Iceland Winter Packing List that covers what to pack for Iceland in November right through to March – you’ll also get a shopping guide, expert packing tips, and a layering cheat sheet. 

You’ll be dressed for success no matter what Mother Nature throws at you!

Visitors are oftentimes unsure of what to wear in Iceland in December, January, and February, as these are the coldest months of the year.

All I can say is that it’s really important to invest in good quality gear that will keep you dry and warm. 

Iceland is spectacular, but you must be properly dressed to enjoy it. 

If you’re cold, you’re just going to want to go back to your car, and that’s no way to experience Iceland. My winter packing list will save you tons of time and luggage space!

The weather in Iceland is ever-changing, and sometimes you can experience all four seasons in a day! And because there are so few trees, Iceland has this thing called ´ sideways rain. ´ 

It’s when the winds are so strong that the rain appears to come at you from the side. Just to be safe, I would suggest a hood on everything . You never know when you’ll need an extra layer!

Iceland Winter Packing List Essentials: Outerwear

Personally, I don’t care about how I look when I go outside, only about being warm and comfortable. So take it from someone who lives in Iceland and ventures into the wilderness every weekend…pack practical! 

You need to remember 3 things when considering what to pack for a trip to Iceland: Water/windproof, layers, and comfort.  

1. Wind & Waterproof Parka

This item should top your Icelandic winter packing list!

I remember the first time traveling here in the winter. I packed my gorgeous water-resistant Michael Kors Jacket with a fur hoody. Then, I soon realized the importance of waterproof gear!

I didn’t last 5 minutes in the rain before I was soaked through – clearly, I had no idea what to pack for Iceland in winter!

You absolutely need your jacket to be WATERPROOF, warm and with a hood ( remember the sideways rain ). 

Bonus points if it’s knee-length like this simple winter Parka because you’ll want to keep as much covered as possible! 

It’s one of the best jackets for Iceland in months like November when there is plenty of snow and rain.

2. Pants  

While jeans are okay if you’re staying indoors, they’ll do nothing to keep you dry when you’re out exploring. 

If you are wearing leggings or jeans and they get wet, then you’re out of luck for the day. Trust me, you want to keep your legs dry and warm. 

I have a fleece-lined pair of outdoor snow pants for snowy adventures. I also have a lighter pair for windy/rainy days that I absolutely love! Whether you’re wondering what to wear in Iceland in March or December, I’d pack a pair of these bad boys in my suitcase. 

3. Down coat

This would be a good alternative on its own as an outer layer if the weather is mild for walking around Reykjavík.

When it’s colder, however, think about this coat as a warm base layer. The benefit to Down is that it’s packable, ultra-lightweight, and great for insulation. 

One of my favorites is this Wantdo jacket. It’s filled with duck down that is both responsibly sourced and certified by the Responsible Down Standard (RDS). 

4. Hat / Headband

There is rarely a time I don’t have a hat on my head, no matter the season. You definitely want to keep your head and ears warm in Iceland! 

I use my headband all the time but when it’s particularly icy outside I opt for more coverage. 

My favorite kind is one with a tight-knit for maximum warmth and these by Love Your Melon are so pretty! 

I prefer gloves over mittens because I’m always using my camera, so I find them more functional. 

These Tomily touchscreen gloves touchscreen gloves are also windproof, making them a great option. 

Because they have touchscreen pads, you can use your phone without taking your gloves off! 

It’s such a useful feature that I’d add it to the winter packing list for Iceland.

6. Scarf 

Keeping my neck warm is a top priority. I have an awesome wool scarf that really blocks the wind. 

However, a scarf can be bulky so I use these merino wool gaiters a lot. I love that they’re non-itch and double-layered. I also have a fleece-lined gaiter that is awesome for colder days or for exploring outdoors.

When it comes to dressing for Icelandic winters, the secret to staying warm and comfortable is all about layering up. This way, you can easily adjust your clothing to match the ever-changing weather conditions. 

Thermals : Under Armour is my favorite as it traps heat and is quick drying. Don’t skimp on quality here, a good base layer can make a big difference in keeping you warm. Bring both a top and a bottom and wear it under everything. 

Fleece leggings : Another option is to have fleece leggings by themselves or underneath a pair of hiking pants. Sometimes I can get away with just the fleece leggings without my outdoor pants, but that’s not the norm.

Wool sweater :  Invest in a wool sweater – just do it! It’s a real game-changer. If you prefer, wait until you get here and buy a genuine Icelandic Lopapeysa . They’re beautiful and functional with natural water-repellent properties and oh-so-warm. I am not kidding when I tell you that I wear mine every weekend, and it’s the warmest thing I own!

Wool socks :  You’ll want multiple pairs of warm, moisture-wicking socks. I’d pack basic hiking socks and then wool socks for colder days. Can you tell I love wool? Nothing beats it for keeping you warm!

Layering long-sleeves : When it comes to winter layering, think long-sleeve tees, dry-fit zip-ups, cozy cardigans, and that cute chambray button-up. These are versatile pieces that allow you to change your outfit for dinner and ensure that you don’t feel stuck wearing the same thing every day!

Jeans : I don’t recommend jeans for your outdoor adventures, remember it’s all about comfort! But you will want a pair of jeans for going out to eat. In Iceland, it is common to wear skinny jeans.

Remember that it’s better to be over-prepared when it comes to winter wear, so prioritize staying dry and warm! 

Pack perfectly for your Iceland trip with my Ultimate Iceland Packing Guide. Get packing checklists, weather info, recommendations for everything from hiking boots to winter jackets, and local tips from someone who lives in Iceland year-round.

With so many natural attractions to see, you’ll be doing a lot of walking. You’re going to want to pack shoes that are comfortable and protect against the elements and rugged terrain.

1. Hiking Boots

🎵 These boots are made for walking ! 🎵

Good-quality hiking boots are a must. These hiking boots are my absolute favorite and, in my opinion, the best shoes for Icelandic winters.  

They are completely waterproof, with amazing traction, and are super comfortable and lightweight. Many hiking boot brands are just plain ugly, but these have a great look. 

2. Snow boots

Need reliable boots for a blizzard? My go-to is Sorel winter boots. They’re warm, waterproof, and built to last. Perfect for deep snow adventures or when my hiking boots just won’t cut it. Their herringbone outsole ensures great grip, and they’re super comfy too. The only catch? They’re a bit on the heavy side, but I think it’s worth it. 🤷🏼‍♀️

3. Crampons

This is the NUMBER ONE thing you need to pack for your trip and an absolute must for winter safety in Iceland! I have used mine several times, and they make me feel so safe walking on the ice. 

Iceland doesn’t do a great job at clearing away ice, and it can get very slippery, especially near waterfalls and even some regular streets.

Yaktrax (for basic protection): These crampons offer basic protection and are ideal for strolling around Reykjavík 

Spikes (for extra protection): Perfect for sightseeing and hiking-these are what I use.

Along with apparel, my Iceland winter packing list also includes a few other non-negotiable items that you should definitely pack in your bag.

Swimsuit : Icelanders LOVE pools, there is a pool in every town! The thermal hot springs and pools are popular attractions all year round. 

Not only that, there are dozens of hot springs you will find around the country. Trust me, there is nothing better than relaxing in a natural hot spring in the middle of the wilderness.

Flip flops: If you’re visiting the geothermal pools and hot springs, you’ll need to bring along a pair of flip-flops. You’ll definitely use them. Any cheap pair will do.

Quick-dry towel : Quick-dry towels are so convenient because they fold up small and dry quickly (obviously). Whether you’re planning on Camping in Iceland , staying in a hostel, or swimming in the natural pools, this really comes in handy. 

Sunglasses : Yes the sun comes out in the winter and when it does, you’ll want some shades. Since the sun only rises partway into the sky during the winter months, the sun can be shining right in your face most of the day, not to mention the glare on the snow.

Day Bag : You want some sort of multi-purpose bag that’ll be comfortable and functional when you’re exploring. I love this Lowepro backpack because it has plenty of storage for my camera, but I can also bring day trip items like my swimsuit and towel! And it also has a strap for attaching a tripod which is a really nice feature.

Water Bottle: For the love of all that is good, don’t buy water in Iceland! You can drink the water out of any faucet or scoop it up from a stream while hiking – it comes straight from the glacier! I like the Yeti Rambler bottle because it’s insulated and leakproof.

Camera : This goes without saying! With a picture-perfect scene around every corner, you’re going to want to capture these memories. If you want to capture the best photos on your trip to Iceland, see my complete Iceland Camera Essentials post.

Car chargers :  A lifesaver for when your camera and/or phone dies when you’re on the road. This happens to me all of the time. These devices just don’t seem to hold up in cold weather!

Adapter : Make sure you can charge your phone, camera, or computer with the correct plug. Iceland uses the standard European plug with two round prongs. I love my universal adapter because I can take it with me around the world and it has two handy USB ports for extra charging. Each person needs their own adapter!

I get emails daily asking me about plugs, adapters, and converters so I dedicated a whole blog post to the topic. I know you’ll find it helpful 👉 The Definitive Guide to Iceland Plugs, Outlets, Adapters & Converters!

Medicines/prescriptions : Please bring your own medicine because some can be super hard to find in Iceland. You can’t get things like ibuprofen or cold medication over the counter. Come prepared and bring whatever you think you may need especially prescription medication.

Winter activities: This one is often overlooked, but don’t forget to pack for the winter activities you plan on doing as they may need their own special gear.

What NOT to Pack for Iceland in Winter 

Umbrella : The Icelandic wind is incredibly strong and will break your umbrella on your first day! If you’re decked out in proper rain gear from head to toe you’ll be just fine.

Cash : There’s no need to bring cash. Cards/Apple Pay is accepted and used for almost everything.

Dressy clothes : You can skip this altogether unless you plan on eating out at a high-end restaurant in Reykjavík. Opt for a sweater and leggings/jeans instead.

Horseback riding gear : Fun fact: Did you know that Icelanders do not allow any riding gear from outside of Iceland? This includes used leather riding boots. They do this to protect the horses from outside pathogens.

A camera you don’t know how to use : Many people get a fancy new camera for their Iceland trip – but never learn how to use it. Make sure you spend a good amount of time getting to know your camera’s settings and practicing before you go to Iceland. Otherwise, your smartphone will do! (Check out this video about  cameras vs. smartphones for Iceland.)

✅ If you want all of this information in a super convenient checklist, download my Iceland Packing Guide!

It includes an Iceland winter packing list (as well as one for summer!), info on what electronics and documents to bring along, and more! Packed with weather insights, a shopping guide, and even a layering cheatsheet, you don’t want to pack for your Iceland trip without this. 

With the complete Iceland winter packing list guide you can spend less time planning and more time daydreaming about all the cool stuff you can do on your trip!

Happy Planning,

Pin it for Later! 👇🏾

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Iceland in December: Christmas and New Years Eve

Go to chapter, how much daylight is there in iceland in december, the festive spirit: christmas in iceland, events in reykjavik in december, campervan travel in december, practical tips for visiting iceland in december.

Are you considering visiting Iceland in December? Wondering if it's the right time to explore this captivating country? Look no further! December in Iceland is one of the most unique times to visit Iceland. Winter has descended, but there’s a distinct festive spirit and plenty of fun winter activities to keep campers busy. 

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the wonders of December in Iceland, providing you with all the information you need to plan your unforgettable winter adventure.

The first question on everyone’s minds who are thinking about visiting Iceland in December. Exactly how much daylight is there for exploring? 

December marks the darkest time of the year in Iceland, with only 4-5 hours of daylight each day. The Winter Solstice, occurring on December 21st, brings the shortest day and longest night of the year. 

While some may find the darkness daunting, it adds a touch of mystery and enchantment to the Icelandic landscapes. Plus, Icelanders love to light up their homes and towns with Christmas lights that illuminate the streets, creating a magical atmosphere throughout the country.

Speaking of Christmas, in Iceland, it’s big news. Icelanders embrace the holiday season with great enthusiasm and spend any time in Reykjavik and you’ll see a city come to life with holiday cheer. 

We strongly recommend spending some time in Reykjavik during December so you can stroll downtown and take in the atmosphere. You’ll see the Christmas Cat, as well as projections of the Icelandic Yule Lads on buildings around town. There are also plenty of Christmas lights that light up the streets, and the cafés, restaurants, and bars are somehow even more inviting than usual. 

The Icelandic Yule Lads

The Yule Lads, descendants of trolls, play a prominent role in Icelandic Christmas traditions. Unlike the traditional image of Santa Claus, Iceland has not one, but thirteen Yule Lads. These mischievous characters visit towns one by one, starting from December 11th, and leave small presents or potatoes in the shoes of well-behaved children. 

Each Yule Lad has a unique personality and name, such as "Door Slammer" or "Skyr-Gobbler," reflecting their cheeky nature.

The Christmas Book Flood

One of the big Christmas traditions in Iceland has become more well-known in previous years: Jólabókaflóð (The Christmas Book Flood). This beloved tradition involves gifting books on Christmas Eve and spending the evening reading and enjoying said books. 

Icelandic literature is a big business, and most prominent authors will release a new book in the lead up to Christmas. Exploring some of the bookstores in downtown Reykjavik is a great way to see what’s on offer; you’ll also find many books in English as well.

Icelandic Christmas Beers

Finally, we come to the most important thing about Christmas in Iceland: the release of the yearly Christmas beers. Every year, the Icelandic breweries will release limited edition Christmas brews, which are usually darker beers to match the cold and wintery weather. 

Here are some things going on in December that you might like to plan your trip around. 

The Imagine Peace Tower: 21st of December

On December 21st, the Imagine Peace Tower, created by Yoko Ono in memory of John Lennon, is relit on Viðey Island. This towering beacon of light shines as a symbol of peace, reminding Icelanders that the long winter days are over and brighter days are ahead. You can take a short ferry ride from Reykjavik's harbor to witness the ceremony. 

Þorláksmessa: 23rd of December

Saint Þorlákur is the patron saint of Iceland, and the 23rd of December is his big day. In the evening, almost all of Reykjavik heads downtown to stroll through the city center, with restaurants serving up the distinctive fermented skate (a type of fish) as tradition dictates. Stroll through downtown on the 23rd and you’ll smell the fish – a pungent, rich smell of ammonia – and if you like, have a chance to try some. Although it’s not for the faint of heart. 

New Year's Eve in Reykjavik

If you're lucky enough to spend New Year's Eve in Reykjavik, get ready for an unforgettable celebration. Icelanders ring in the new year with family dinners, bonfires, and fireworks display that lights up the sky for hours. 

As fireworks are available for purchase by the public, you'll witness a dazzling show from various locations throughout the city. For the best view, head to Hallgrímskirkja church, the harbor area, or Perlan. Alternatively, venture slightly outside the city lights to enjoy a more serene and intimate experience.

A camper road trip in Iceland during December is a fun thing to do. The roads are quiet, as are all the major attractions in the country. But whether the entire country is accessible is another story, with frequent storms blowing in and disrupting travel plans. 

Our best advice for planning a campervan trip in December is to be flexible. Have a plan, and then a backup plan as well. Sometimes the ring road might close, stopping you from making the entire loop, so it’s a good idea to know where else you can travel to. 

West and South Iceland are particularly accessible during winter, offering breathtaking winter landscapes without the challenges of more remote areas. A road trip to Vik and back, or even the Glacier Lagoon and back if the weather permits, is a good option. Likewise, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in winter is also stunning. 

For more information on planning a winter road trip in Iceland, check out this article . 

The Northern Lights in December

You might have already guessed, but with an average of 4 hours of daylight per day, December is a fantastic time to see the northern lights in Iceland. 

If you’re out and about in the countryside, keep tabs on the northern lights forecast, and 

Ice Caves in December

By far one of the best winter activities, you can do on a campervan trip in December is to join a tour to one of the ice caves. These are spectacular natural caves that form underneath the Icelandic glaciers, and you can enter them with a guided tour. 

For many travelers, this is a highlight of their trip to Iceland.  For some more inspiration of what you can do in December, check out this article on winter activities in Iceland . 

Weather and Road Conditions

It's essential to be prepared for the weather and road conditions when visiting Iceland in December. The climate is cold, with temperatures ranging from -2°C to 4°C (28°F to 39°F). Snow and ice are common, so ensure you have appropriate winter clothing and footwear. Keep a close eye on weather forecasts and road conditions provided by the Icelandic Met Office and the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration . 

Which Campsites are open in December?

It’s also important to note that a lot of campsites will be closed during December. Many campsites only open for the busy season, usually closing around September or October. 

For an overview of which campsites are open currently, check out our map of winter campsites in Iceland . 

Safety and Emergency Services

Iceland is known for its stunning natural beauty, but it's crucial to prioritize safety during your visit. Carry a fully charged mobile phone and save the emergency number, 112, in case of any emergencies. 

Be cautious when exploring icy or snowy areas and follow any safety guidelines provided at the attractions. 

Related articles

This Iceland Highlands self-drive itinerary takes in the best of Iceland’s bleak and desolate central region, only accessible in the summer with a 4x4.

This Westfjords campervan itinerary is designed to help you discover the heart of Iceland’s least-visited region over 3 to 5 days.

Those in Iceland for a longer time will love this 10-day ring road itinerary, designed especially for campervans and taking in the best sights around the country.

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The 18 best places to see the northern lights.

Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list.

The Best Places for the Northern Lights

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The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

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Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

• Central and northern Alaska
• Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
• Southern Greenland
• Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

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Iceland: December 26, 2024-January 3, 2025

Reykjavík, Iceland

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About this trip

Note** Itinerary Subject to Change**

Let's chase the Northern Lights and bring in the New Year in a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! Take the full circle road around Iceland to see its top attractions on this 6-day tour from Reykjavik. Check out the Golden Circle, view the south coast’s black sands and basalt cliffs; explore the eastern fjords, Akureyri, and Lake Myvatn; and enjoy adventures including a glacier walk at Skaftafell, hiking, and a whale watching cruise. The tour includes five nights’ accommodation, daily breakfast, air-conditioned transport, and more. Discover the best of Iceland on a 6-day tour from Reykjavik Stay connected with free Wi-Fi while you drive to each location. Accommodation, daily breakfast, activities, and transport included (vans and/or bus).

All lodging is provided from Dec. 26, 2023 - Jan 2, 2024

PD Certification Given: None

Schools visit:  No

Terrain:  Mostly flat, some hills, you will want hiking boots

Questions? Visit our Bookbag Tours FAQ page.

What’s included

• 20+ PD Hours
• Hotel Hotel Stay
• Breakfast Breakfast every morning
• New Years Eve Party Ring in the New year with a festive get together
• Welcome Reception Welcome Reception/Orientation
• Ground Transportation All ground transportation in country - Does not include taxis.
• The BBT Team Your amazing Trip Leaders, your Professional Development facilitators, our Trip Managers, and our On-Site and Off-Site Team members!
• Luggage You are allowed one suitcase up to 24 inches and 1 carry on backpack. If you require more you must purchase extra luggage storage.

What’s not included

• Airfare Airfare is not included
• Optional Side Trips Side trips for an additional fee
• VISA If needed
• Tips and Gratuities For Local Guides

Available Packages

Package as described with Shared Room Please register with Personal email only.

Package as described with a Private Room. Please register with Personal email only.

 If leaving from the United States, travel will need to start the day before to arrive at your destination on time due to time zone changes. 

 Be Sure to Bring the following:

• Warm and waterproof clothing
• A sense of adventure
• Winter hiking shoes (also available for rent)
• Swimsuit and a towel 

Luggage: You are allowed one suitcase up to 24 inches and 1 carry on backpack on the bus we will be traveling with around the Golden Circle. If you require more, you must purchase extra luggage storage.  

We will check into the hotel and then have an orientation around 5:00 PM at the hotel.

At Orientation, you will receive all the info and travel passes you may need. 

Most will be arriving early so here are some optional activities you can pick from or book any of your own side trips.  Be sure to be back at the hotel by 5:00 PM

Optional Activities: 

Blue Lagoon:  (10 AM) Visit Iceland's famous Blue Lagoon on a full-day trip from Reykjavik. Relax in the warm waters of this natural geothermal pool, and enjoy upgrades like spa treatments, water massages and private baths (own expense). Experience one of Iceland's natural wonders, surrounded by snowy mountains and otherworldly lava fields. Round-trip transportation from Reykjavik is included. Transportation to and from the Blue Lagoon (entrance fee included) Enjoy a water massage or just lie back in the warm waters of the lagoon Relax amid stunning scenery and fresh air Pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik area hotels and guesthouses

The National Museum of Iceland:  Dive into the fascinating history of the Icelandic nation at the National Museum of Iceland. The museum's permanent exhibition is a journey through time, featuring artifacts from the age of settlement to the present day. Ensure a hassle-free visit by booking advance museum tickets, which allow you to skip the ticket line and enter directly.

The Settlement Exhibition:  Learn the little-known history of Iceland’s early past. Enjoy family-friendly multimedia exhibits, which bring to life the Saga of Egil Skallagrimsson, the island nation’s national epic, written by an acclaimed Viking poet. Self-guided audio tours are available in 15 languages.

Overnight in Reykjavik-  Oddsson Hotel or similar ( https://www.oddsson.is/)

Side Trips in Reykjavik

After we gather in Reykjavík, let's embark on an amazing journey Around Iceland - an adventure you won't forget!

DESTINATION #1

We will start our unforgettable adventure with Thingvellir National Park which is a stunningly beautiful and historically significant site located in the south-west of Iceland.

North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet there, creating a unique geological environment. The two plates are constantly pushing against each other, creating a No Man's Land and resulting in frequent seismic activity and volcanic eruptions. Thingvellir is also home to some of the world's most active geysers and hot springs, which are a result of the heat generated by the friction between the two plates. The combination of these two plates has made Iceland one of the most geologically active places on Earth.

Viking history in Thingvellir National Park is a fascinating topic to explore. Located in Iceland, Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to some of the most important sites in Viking history. The park was established in 1930 and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Iceland. Thingvellir is a great place to explore Viking history. Visitors can explore the archaeological sites, take in the natural beauty of the park, and learn more about the history of the Icelandic people. The park is also a great place to take in the beauty of Iceland, with its stunning landscapes and unique wildlife.

DESTINATION #2

After visiting the park, we will go to Haukadalur Geothermal Area , where we will find a Hot Spring Strokkur , which erupts every five to ten minutes creating amazing photo opportunities and the famous Great Geysir - the geyser that has named all geysers in the world, however has been dormant since the early 2000s.

Geysers in Iceland are created by the intense volcanic activity beneath the surface of the Earth. The heat from the magma below the surface causes water to become superheated and pressurized. When the pressure becomes too great, the water is forced up through the Earth's surface and erupts in a geyser. The eruption is usually accompanied by steam, boiling water, and sometimes mud and rocks. The geyser's eruption can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes, depending on the size and strength of the eruption.

DESTINATION #3

To end our Golden Circle in the most magnificent way, we will go to Gullfoss . Gullfoss is one of the most iconic and beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. Located in the Hvítá river canyon in southwest Iceland, Gullfoss is a spectacular double waterfall that cascades down into a deep canyon. The waterfall is 32 meters (105 feet) high and has a width of about 20 meters (65 feet).

Today, Gullfoss is an extremely popular tourist destination. The first thing that strikes visitors to Gullfoss is its sheer power. The waterfall is fed by the Langjökull glacier, and the resulting volume of water is immense. Visitors can take in the stunning views of the waterfall from the viewing platform at the top of the canyon, or take a short walk down to the bottom of the canyon for a closer look. There are also several trails in the area, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding area and take in the beautiful scenery.

ACTIVITY OF THE DAY #1

Visible from September - March If the weather allows we should be able to see the Northern Lights! The hotel we will be staying at is located far away from light pollution, which increases the chances of seeing them. If we don't see them tonight, we still have 5 days left to catch them!

We will spend our night in a hotel nearby.

ACTIVITY: WE WILL HIKE ON A GLACIER!

On this day you will be heading to the South of Iceland - home to glaciers.

DESTINATION #4

Today we will start the day with Seljalandsfoss - a stunningly beautiful waterfall located in the south of Iceland. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country, and it is easy to see why. Seljalandsfoss is unique in that it is possible to walk behind the waterfall, which creates a truly magical experience.The waterfall is located in the Seljalands River, which is a tributary of the mighty glacial river, the Markarfljot. Seljalandsfoss is about 60 meters (197 feet) high and is part of the Seljalandsfoss-Gljufrabui area, which is a protected nature reserve. The area has been protected since 1987 and is home to a variety of flora and fauna.

Seljalandsfoss is a must-see for anyone visiting Iceland. Its breathtaking beauty and unique features make it one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. Whether visitors are looking for a peaceful escape or an adventure, Seljalandsfoss is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

DESTINATION #5

Moving on more east, we will find yet another waterfall - Skógafoss . It is a powerful waterfall, with a width of 25 metres and a height of 60 metres. It is said to be the largest waterfall in the country and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Iceland.

Skógafoss is also one of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland and is a must-see for any traveler. The area around the waterfall is very photogenic, with lush green fields and a stunning view of the nearby mountains. There is a well-marked hiking trail that leads to the top of the waterfall, where visitors can get a bird’s eye view of the area. In addition to its natural beauty, Skógafoss also has a rich history. The area has been inhabited since the 9th century, and the waterfall is said to have been a sacred site for the Vikings. The waterfall is also said to be the hiding place of a chest filled with gold and other treasures.

DESTINATION #6

We will drive towards the glaciers . Glaciers are an important part of Iceland's landscape, covering 11% of the country. They are also one of the most visited attractions in Iceland, with tourists coming from all over the world to experience the beauty of these massive ice formations. Iceland is home to many glaciers, with the largest being Vatnajökull, which covers 8% of the country. This glacier is the largest in Europe and is home to many of Iceland's most popular attractions, such as the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and the Svínafellsjökull glacier.

Glaciers form when snow accumulates over time and compresses into large masses of ice. This process can take thousands of years, and the glaciers in Iceland are some of the oldest in the world. As the glaciers move, they carve out deep valleys and create stunning landscapes. Glaciers are also important for Iceland's environment. They provide a source of fresh water for the country, and their presence helps to regulate the climate. Glaciers also act as a buffer against the effects of global warming, as they absorb some of the heat from the sun.

Iceland's glaciers are an important part of the country's landscape, and they are an important part of its culture and history. They are a source of adventure, research, and inspiration, and they are a reminder of the beauty of nature.

ACTIVITY OF THE DAY #2

Get ready to experience something a few have experienced - a Glacier Hike on Sólheimajökull! We will meet a certified glacier guide who will give us all glacier equipment, provide all safety equipment and take us to the top of a glacier!

Before going a glacier hike in Iceland, it is important to be prepared. The weather can be unpredictable, so it is important to dress appropriately for the conditions. Layering is key, as temperatures can vary greatly depending on the time of day and the location of the glacier. It is also important to wear sturdy footwear with good grip, as the terrain can be slippery and uneven. Safety is also a key factor when glacier hiking, as it is home to crevasses, avalanches, and falling ice. However our glacier guide will provide valuable insight into the terrain and help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

(Please note that a glacier hike might happen on Day 3 on Vatnajökull glacier, depending on the availability of the glacier guide).

DESTINATION #7 - Next we are going to the famous Reynisfjara . Reynisfjara is a black sand beach located along the southern coast of Iceland. It is the most popular beach in the country, and has been featured in several films and television shows. The black sand beach in Reynisfjara is black because of the volcanic activity in the area. The black sand is created by lava that has cooled and hardened. The beach is also known for its dramatic basalt columns, which were formed by the erosion of the nearby Reynisfjall mountain.

The basalt columns were also formed by a volcanic eruption that took place over a million years ago. The molten lava cooled and contracted, forming vertical cracks in the rock. The lava then continued to cool and contract, creating polygonal columns. The columns have been eroded over time by the sea, creating the unique and beautiful landscape that is seen today.

This beautiful place is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including seabirds, seals, and even the occasional whale. With its stunning scenery and wide variety of activities, Reynisfjara is an unforgettable destination.

DESTINATION #8

The final stop of the day will be Vík í Mýrdal - small village located on the south coast of Iceland. It is the southernmost village in Iceland and is renowned for its black sand beaches and dramatic coastal cliffs. The village is home to a few hundred people and is a popular stop for tourists as it is located in one of the most volcanic areas in Iceland - only 26 km away from Katla Volcano - an active volcano which has been active since the early 9th century and has had several major eruptions throughout its history. The most recent major eruption occurred in 1918, when the volcano erupted for three weeks, sending ash and lava up to 10 km (6 miles) into the air.

In the event of a volcanic eruption in the area, all people are asked to go to Vík's church, which is located on the top of the hill. Before leaving their homes, everyone is asked to fill out a form and indicate on a window facing the street how many people live in the house and how many have already evacuated. This will help the police ensure that everyone is out of the houses.

We will spend our night in Vík.

Meals: Breakfast

ACTIVITY: We will go inside an ice cave!

Today we will leave our hotel at 8am and start our adventure to the east of Iceland - surrounded by majestic glaciers, dramatic mountains and unforgettable views.

DESTINATION #9

Our first stop is Skaftafell for a photo stop of the largest glacier in Europe - Vatnajökull , by the remains of the bridge that got swept away by a glacial flood in 1996.

Skeiðará Bridge s one of the most iconic landmarks in the country, as it is a reminder of the country's past, and it is a symbol of the strength and resilience of the Icelandic people. The bridge was built in the early 20th century and spans the Skeiðará River, connecting the eastern and western sides of the river.

DESTINATION #10

The next stop of the journey is the astonishing Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon , where you can see large icebergs drift calmly towards the ocean.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a glacial lake located in southeastern Iceland. It is the deepest lake in Iceland and one of the largest in Europe. The lagoon is fed by the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, part of the Vatnajökull glacier, Europe’s largest glacier. The lagoon is a popular tourist attraction, with visitors coming to see the floating icebergs, seals, and the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon was formed in the early 1920s, when the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier began to retreat. The glacier has retreated more than 3 kilometers since then, creating the lagoon and its surrounding wetlands. The lagoon is now over 1 kilometer wide and 250 meters deep. The lagoon is also a popular destination for photographers and filmmakers, who come to capture the stunning beauty of the lagoon and its surrounding landscape. The lagoon has featured in many films, including James Bond’s Die Another Day, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, and Batman Begins.

DESTINATION #11

2 minutes away from Jökulsárlón, we will find a stunningly beautiful Diamond Beach , where large chunks of glittering blue ice scatter across the black sand beach. The ice is a result of the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, which is part of the larger Vatnajökull glacier.

The beach is a popular destination for tourists and photographers alike, as the ice chunks provide a unique and beautiful backdrop for photos. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, seabirds, and even reindeer.

ACTIVITY OF THE DAY #3

From October to April: Get ready to visit Crystal Blue Ice Cave - one of the largest and most popular ice caves in Iceland! The ice cave is so far away that we cannot reach it by foot or car. So, we will take a Super jeep to get to the ice cave with a glacier guide who will ensure our safety.

Crystal Blue Ice Cave in Iceland is an awe-inspiring natural wonder that has captivated visitors from all over the world and is a must-see for anyone visiting Iceland. Located in the Vatnajökull National Park, the cave is formed by the melting of a glacier and is filled with a stunning blue ice. The cave is illuminated by the sunlight that streams in from the entrance, creating a magical atmosphere.

The cave is a popular destination for photographers, as the ice formations and the blue ice make for some stunning photos. The tour will take visitors through the chamber, as well as to other areas of the cave (please note that an ice cave is always changing).

(Please note that we might visit another Ice Cave, depending on weather and season).

ACTIVITY: Horse Riding and Hot Springs

We will spend our fourth day in the East Fjords of Iceland, relax in hot springs, enjoy the beautiful Icelandic life, and make amazing memories! Here we can also find amazing and rare wildlife, fjords and high mountain ridges.

DESTINATION #12

Icelandic history makes its appearance in the peaceful fishing villages you pass along the way, as fishing has always been a big part of Icelandic culture. If we have time we will pass by some of these villages.

DESTINATION #13

You have probably noticed that Iceland doesn't have a lot of trees, therefore we will go to Hallormsstaðaskógur forest - the largest forest in Iceland.

Iceland is located in the North Atlantic Ocean, far from the mainland of Europe and North America. This means that the climate is cold and windy, and the soil is rocky and not very fertile. This makes it difficult for trees to survive and grow in Iceland. Additionally, the cold temperatures mean that the growing season is very short, and the trees cannot get enough sunlight to photosynthesize.

However 40% of Iceland was covered with trees thousands of years ago, however Vikings used wood for fuel and building materials, leading to deforestation. This deforestation was further exacerbated by the introduction of sheep and other livestock, which ate the trees and shrubs.

DESTINATION #14

Just by the forest, we will pass by Lake Lagarfljót , which is the third largest lake in the country and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland.

The lake is believed to be the home of a mythical creature known as the Lagarfljótsormur, or Lagarfljóts Worm. According to legend, the creature is a giant serpent that lives in the depths of the lake. Sightings of the creature have been reported since the 13th century, and it is said to be the cause of mysterious occurrences in the area.

ACTIVITY OF THE DAY #4

Let's make our adventure even more exciting! We have two amazing activities to choose from that will make the rest of the day unforgettable!

• Optional Extra Activity: Horseback Riding in the East  (optional activity which needs to be selected during the checkout process).

Saddle up, everyone! We're going on an adventure to explore the stunning landscapes of the Icelandic Wilderness on our very own horses!

We will meet a Riding Instructor who will teach us how to ride an Icelandic horse! Each person will get his/her own horse and off we ride into the Icelandic Wilderness to explore the beautiful landscapes.

Icelandic Horses are unique because they are the only breed of horse in the world that has five gaits, including the ''tölt'', a four-beat lateral ambling gait. This gait is unique and is not found in any other horse breed in the world. Additionally, Iceland horses are known for their sure-footedness and hardiness, which allows them to traverse difficult terrain and survive harsh climates. They are also known for their intelligence and friendly personalities, making them ideal companions for both leisure and work.

There is no need to have previous experience in horse riding. Please note that this activity is not suitable for people weighing over 120 kgs or people in poor physical condition.

DESTINATION #15

We will travel a bit more north, where we will find luxurious hot springs!

• Optional Extra Activity: Entrance to VÖK Baths  (optional activity which needs to be selected during the checkout process).

VÖK Baths is a luxury spa and a unique geothermal area located in the east of Iceland. The area is known for its natural hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including geese, ducks, and swans, and is a popular spot for bird-watching. The area is also popular among tourists for its stunning views of the surrounding landscape and its unique geothermal activity.

ACTIVITY: We will explore the capital of the north!

We will spend our 5th day exploring the wildest parts of Iceland.

DESTINATION #16

From May - September we visit Stuðlagil Canyon view point. From the viewpoint that juts over the canyon, you can see the blue-green water and the basalt columns on the opposite side after just a 5-minute walk down 239 metal steps. However, it is important to note that accessing the river from this vantage point is not possible.

DESTINATION #17

From May - September we also visit Dettifoss, located in the north of Iceland. Dettifoss is one of the most powerful and breathtaking waterfalls in Europe. It's situated on the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river and is surrounded by rugged, volcanic terrain. The waterfall is 100 meters wide and has a drop of 44 meters into the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon. The sheer force of the water crashing down creates a deafening roar and a mist that can be seen from miles away. Dettifoss is a must-see attraction for nature lovers and adventure seekers visiting Iceland.

DESTINATION #18

The next stop is Lake Mývatn and it’s beautiful surroundings.

Lake Mývatn is a beautiful lake located in northern Iceland. It is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning natural beauty and unique geological features. The lake is surrounded by a variety of volcanic formations, lava fields, and other geological features, making it a great spot for sightseeing and photography. The lake is also home to a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching. The lake is also known for its abundance of natural hot springs, making it a popular spot for swimming and soaking.

DESTINATION #19

A short drive away, we will find Námaskarð Pass , a high temperature geothermal area where the earth boils and gurgles. Námaskarð pass is a mountain pass located in the Highlands of Iceland. It is situated between the glaciers of Hofsjökull and Vatnajökull and is a popular tourist destination due to the orange and red landscapes in the area. The whole land is orange due to the presence of sulfur in the area, which gives the landscape its unique color. During our hike we will see colorful hills, steaming hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and fumaroles.

DESTINATION #20

Dimmuborgir is our next stop where we will find a field of peculiar shaped lava pillars that rise from the earth and their formations may remind you of trolls, elves and other mythical creatures. 

Dimmuborgir is a volcanic area located in the north of Iceland. It is a fascinating landscape of lava fields and caves, formed by volcanic eruptions over 2,000 years ago. It is a popular tourist destination and is known for its unique rock formations, including the Hall of the Mountain King, an area of large basalt columns. The area is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including Arctic foxes, reindeer, and ptarmigans. Dimmuborgir is a great place to explore and take in the unique beauty of the Icelandic landscape.

DESTINATION #21

We will now go to explore Goðafoss - a breathtaking waterfall located in the north of Iceland. It is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the country and is a popular tourist destination. The name Goðafoss translates to “waterfall of the gods” and it is believed to have been named after the conversion to Christianity in Iceland in the year 1000. The waterfall is approximately 12 meters (40 feet) high and 30 meters (100 feet) wide, making it one of the largest waterfalls in the country, which is also known for its unique shape.

The waterfall was formed by a massive glacial flood that occurred in the year 934. The flood was caused by a volcanic eruption in the region and the resulting glacial flood carved out the horseshoe shape of the waterfall.

ACTIVITY OF THE DAY #5

Akureyri is our next stop - the Capital of the North. You will have the whole evening to go explore the beautiful city. It is the second largest urban area in the country, and is known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture. The town is surrounded by mountains, glaciers, and fjords, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing. Akureyri also has a vibrant nightlife, with a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs. The town is home to a number of museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions, making it a great place to explore and learn about Icelandic culture.

Remember to look for the beautiful Northern Lights at night if skies are clear before you turn in to your accommodation.

We will spend our night in Akureyri.

 ACTIVITY: We will go whale watching!

We will spend our last day with the most exciting activity of the whole journey! We will go Whale Watching!

ACTIVITY OF THE DAY #6

In the morning after breakfast, we will pack our bags and go straight to a small village called Hauganes, where we will get on a boat and go into the North Atlantic Ocean to see Humpback Whales and more wonderful creatures swimming in the ocean.

We offer warm extra clothing, but we still recommend that passengers bring their own warm and waterproof clothes.

DESTINATION #22

Today we have a long way back to Reykjavík, passing by some beautiful places. If we have time, we will make some extra stops to see the places, so speak the guide and let the guide know if there is a place you would like to stop on the way. If we have time, we will definitely make a stop.

We'll arrive back in Reykjavík at around 8pm (depending on weather and road conditions).

Accommodation: Overnight in Reykjavik

Perlan Museum - Wonders of Iceland & Áróra Northern Lights Planetarium Show: Combine pre-booked admission tickets to the Perlan’s Wonders of Iceland exhibition with a planetarium show on the elusive, green dancing lights of the Aurora Borealis. Walk through a reconstructed Ice Cave, learn about Iceland’s glaciers in an interactive display, and see a replica of a bird cliff. Then, sit back and relax as you embark on a multimedia Northern Lights journey.

Food Lovers Tour: (3 hours) Finding authentic places to eat can be tricky in an unfamiliar place. Take the guesswork out of your visit to Reykjavík on this guided walking tour that takes you to a multitude of eateries around the capital, including the city's oldest restaurant and a much-loved hot dog stand. In a small group of no more than 12, learn about Iceland's culinary history and traditions as you sample such dishes as Icelandic meat soup, skyr, and lobster soup.

Snorkeling Between Continents in Silfra: (9:30 AM)  Earth is divided with underground tectonic plates. Iceland is situated right in the middle of the two of them – North American and Eurasian Tectonic Plates. Silfra Fissure is one of the places in Iceland where you can see where the tectonic plates have slowly been separating – yet not on land, but under water. In this magical place, the water is considered to be one of the cleanest waters in the world, with a visibility of more than 100 meters. This incredibly clean water comes from the melted ice of Langjökull glacier. During the activity, you will be swimming between two tectonic plates. Your guide will eventually send you all the GoPro photos after the tour.

Sky Lagoon: (1 PM)  If you’re looking for a place to relax and rejuvenate during your time in Iceland, then book a spot at Sky Lagoon. With this tour, not only do you get admission to the lagoon but you can enjoy a 7-step spa ritual that is sure to awaken your senses. Step inside the geothermal pool that is set at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean and soak away your stress. Enjoy unparalleled views of Iceland from the lagoon

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