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Best Winter Tours & Packages in Iceland

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Winter Tours & Packages in Iceland

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

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

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

Unforgettable 8-Day Northern Lights Winter Package of Iceland with Ice Caving & National Parks

5-Day Northern Lights Winter Self-Drive Tour with the Golden Circle & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

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

Ultimate 10-Day Northern Lights Winter Trip to Iceland's Highlands with Ice Caving

Small Group 4-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package with Golden Circle & South Coast

Small Group 6-Day Northern Lights Winter Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland

11-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Holiday of the Complete Ring Road & Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Scenic 4-Day Northern Lights Tour of Vatnajokull Ice Cave, Jokulsarlon & the South Coast

12-Day Northern Lights Winter Self-Drive Tour of Iceland’s Snaefellsnes, South Coast, & Reykjavik

7-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package with Ice Caving

Small Group 5-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation with the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle & South Coast

Fun-Filled 3-Day Northern Lights Winter Stopover in Reykjavik with the Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon

Breathtaking 4-Day Northern Lights Winter Tour with the Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon

Perfect 6-Day Northern Lights Vacation in Iceland

9-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road with Waterfalls & Hot Springs

Magical 2-Week Northern Lights Winter Road Trip in Iceland with Waterfalls & Glaciers

Exciting 14-Day Northern Lights Package Tour of the Ring Road with Snaefellsnes & Reykjavik

Magical 13-Day Northern Lights Package Tour of the Ring Road & Snaefellsnes Peninsula

9 Day Northern Lights Winter Tour of the Total Iceland Experience with Ice Caving & the Blue Lagoon

10-Day Guided Tour Package of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland with Reykjavik

14-Day Northern Lights Winter Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road with Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Explore an unequalled wealth of tours and packages

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

Dreichen Jung

I recently joined Tröll Expeditions on their 8-day Iceland Ring Road tour, and I had an absolutely amazing time! Our guide, John, was knowledgeable, humorous, and engaging. He kept us entertained with interesting stories and facts about Iceland, and he even curated a playlist of Icelandic and English songs to match the scenery and mood of our journey. Although one day of our itinerary had to be changed due to bad weather, John did his best to find alternative activities and make the most of the situation. He also took us to several hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path locations, which made the trip even more special. The 8-day itinerary was well-paced, with enough time to explore each stop. Tröll packed in a lot of exciting activities, including glacier hiking, exploring a blue ice cave, whale watching, visiting a lava cave, relaxing in the Vök baths, and horseback riding on Icelandic horses. I visited Iceland in March-April, which is a great time to see the Northern Lights and explore the blue ice caves. However, the weather can be unpredictable, so I highly recommend joining a guided tour instead of driving yourself. Overall, I highly recommend Tröll Expeditions. It was a truly exciting and unforgettable Iceland trip! 我參加了 Tröll Expeditions 的冰島八日環島行，先說結論，非常推薦！！ 因為這次要帶著年紀較大的媽媽，自己又沒有雪地駕車經驗 出發前冰島大部分心得也都是自駕，台灣當地出發的冰島環島旅行團又都超級貴 衡量之下就報名了冰島當地的Tröll Expeditions （當時也有比較arctic adventures，但arctic adventures的環島團只有七天，覺得太趕） 導遊 John 非常認真、風趣，講解生動活潑，他還會在遊覽車上播放英文和冰島語歌單，搭配沿途的風景和情境，讓旅程更加有趣！ 雖然有一天的行程因天氣因素無法按照原定計畫進行，但 John 還是非常盡力地規劃替代行程，旅途中也帶我們去了許多秘境私人景點，讓我對冰島有了更深入的了解 八日環島的行程雖然還是有點趕，但每個景點都還算是有充足的時間可以好好遊覽。 Tröll 的行程安排也非常棒，包含了冰川健行、藍冰洞、賞鯨、熔岩洞穴、Vök 浴池和冰島馬騎乘等六項活動，都超級值得體驗！ 我是在 3-4 月前往冰島，雖然天氣寒冷，但日照時間長，還可以抓住冬天尾巴可以看到藍冰洞景觀和好幾天的極光。但由於冰島春季路況多變，許多地方也還有下雪，沒有雪地自駕經驗建議還是參加冰島當地的旅行團。

Maja Nuoffer

Fantastic travel company-- well-organized with responsive, polite and accommodating staff. The Northern Lights were an incredible, once in a lifetime experience. The tour guides were fantastic, and the views breathtaking. Highly recommend and will be using this travel company in the future.

This was a perfect way to manage a stopover visit with zero knowledge of iceland going in. The Blue Lagoon was closed during my visit and I was promptly refunded. There were clouds the first night so Northern lights tour was canceled, but the booking was honored the following night and we got clear skies and a stunning multi-hour aurora. I wish I had taken one more day to space things out a little more, but I felt very well taken care of throughout. A special shout out to Troll Expeditions- if I ever come back, I'd likely do all my tours with them. The other companies were very good, but Troll was top notch.

Anke Jussen

We had a wonderful time in Iceland. Luckily, we also experienced the Northern lights and had almost perfect weather conditions along the way, due to which we were able to get the most of the trip including every single tour booked. It was most unforgettable and we will cherish this trip forever. Thank you for everything!

Winter Travel in Iceland

During winter, Iceland is almost always blanketed in glimmering layer of snow, and tempered by unpredictable weather; be it a frozen starlit stillness, blizzards of dazzling white, or a magnificent display of the Northern Lights , there’s no exact telling what the skies will be up to.

The height of winter only provides a few hours of sunlight each day, meaning you’ll need to be acutely aware of your scheduling, but the majority of Iceland’s attraction, including an abundance of crystal blue ice caves , are accessible.

This also goes for a great number of activities. It is, for instance, a popular choice to go on a snorkelling tour in Silfra fissure during the winter months (many, in fact, believe the cold weather makes the glacial water feel warmer), as well as such activities as dog sledging, whale watching and hot spring hunting. 

By opting for a package, travellers rest easy knowing all accommodation, transfers and tours are prepared and confirmed by Guide to Iceland prior to their arrival. This removes the pressure of logistical planning and dealing with third parties, leaving you free to enjoy Iceland’s frostbitten landscapes to your heart’s content.

Naturally, wintertime means cold temperatures, so you will need to pack the proper clothing for your trip to Iceland. Be sure to include a waterproof jacket and pants, a woolly hat, scarf, gloves, thick socks and sturdy hiking boots.

Frequently asked questions

What's included in a winter vacation package in iceland, during which months can i see the northern lights in iceland, can i book winter packages for christmas or new year's eve in iceland, are there any luggage restrictions on the 2-3 day minibus tours, how much time do we spend at each location for my winter tour in iceland, what are some popular hot springs spas to visit in iceland during winter, which languages does the tour guide speak for my winter tour in iceland, what kind of shoes should i wear on an ice cave excursion on my winter tour in iceland, can i visit the ice caves in iceland during winter, how many people are usually on winter tours in iceland, what happens if i arrive late to a tour or cannot make it to a meeting point because of bad weather or road closures, what is the weather like in iceland during the winter months, is it possible to drive the entire ring road in iceland during winter, what clothing should i pack for a winter trip in iceland, how are driving conditions in iceland during the winter, are there any winter festivals or cultural events in iceland, can i participate in a whale watching tour during the winter in iceland, are there any guided photography tours available in iceland during winter, what wildlife can i expect to see during a winter tour in iceland.

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10 Absolutely Best Iceland Winter Tours to book in 2023

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Iceland in winter is an amazing time to visit. The landscape in Iceland transforms itself into a mind-blowing winter adventure ground. These absolutely best Iceland Winter tours are handpicked so that you have an awesome trip. 

Winters in Iceland are pretty mild as compared to some of the regions in North America. However, driving on winter roads in Iceland is not easy, especially if you are not used to the terrain. Using these winter tours in Iceland, you can experience the best of winter, where the local guide will take you around in the nicest and safest way possible!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Although the winter months in Iceland are from December to early February, all of the recommended Iceland winter tours start as early as September and continue until March. We have also included some classic tours that can be taken all year round with a winter twist.

Some of the tours are weather-dependent and some not. So here are the best Iceland winter tours that should book for your trip!

10 Best Iceland Winter Tours to book

• BUCKET-LIST ICE CAVE TOUR > Ice Cave Tour Vatnajökull National Park in Southern Iceland
• CLASSIC TOUR w/ NORTHERN LIGHTS > South Coast of Iceland Tour with Northern Lights
• BEST VALUE 3 DAY TOUR  > 3 Day Winter Adventure in Iceland from Reykjavik with 2 nights accommodation included

All the tours mentioned in this post are via GetYourGuide . This is the tour booking agency that we use for all of our travels. They have a great selection of tours, and their website is super user friendly.

Once you book a tour, you will receive the tour information via email. They will send a reminder a few days prior to your trip, and you can manage all the bookings via your GetYourGuide account. 

Should your travel plans change, you can easily cancel the tour and request a full refund, if canceled 24 hours in advance. We have been booking with them for years, and never had any problems!

These winter activities can be arranged as a day trip from Reykjavík, and they come with small group tour options. 

Read our full guide to Best Iceland Tours for any time of the year

1. Ice Cave tour at Vatnajökull National Park in Southern Iceland (2.5 to 3 hours)

🖤 Availability: Ice cave tours are available from mid-November to March

During winters in Iceland, escape to ice caves – a fascinating natural phenomenon   formed by meltwater streams and wind hollowing out tunnels. What results, is stunning helictite-like icicles and ice draperies.

To take an ice cave tour is to marvel at this natural creation with ice formation and turquoise colors – something which is mind-blowing. You have to see it yourself to believe it. These ice caves are also called crystal caves as the interiors shine like a crystal or a diamond .

There are only two places in Iceland , where you can take an Ice Cave tours  – Vatnajokull National Park and Langjokull Glacier Park. 

Vatnajokull National Park is a natural ice cave. It is located about 5 hours away from Reykjavik. This can be taken as a multi-day tour from Reykjavik, not as a day tour. In this recommended Ice Cave tour, you will e xperience a super-jeep drive to Vatnajökull which is also Europe’s largest glacier. 

A guide will lead the group inside the natural ice cave and spend 45 minutes to an hour inside the glacier. Gear up with a helmet, micro-spikes, and a headlight, if needed. You will be provided with helmets and crampons at the site. Marvel at the stunning creation, take photos, and learn about the glacier and the formation of the cave.

Note: You will have to arrange for transportation to the ice cave, and the tour begins at the site for 2.50 to 3 hours. The next tour – Glacier and Ice Cave – includes transportation as well as an all-round glacier adventure!

✅ BOOK HERE > ICE CAVE TOUR AT VATNAJOKULL NATIONAL PARK 

ALTERNATIVE TOUR > FROM JOKULSARLON GLACIER LAGOON TO VATNAJOKULL ICE CAVE TOUR

2. Langkökull Glacier Ice Cave Tour from Reykjavik (11 hours)

🖤 Availability: All year. During winters experience ice cave tours in Iceland, and in summers explore ice tunnels

This is an AWESOME and CONVENIENT TOUR if you are staying in the capital city of Reykjavik. You will depart from Reykjavik in the morning and reach Langjökull Glacier – the second largest glacier in Iceland. Langjokull Glacier Park is a man-made ice cave. 

This winter experience in Langjökull Glacier is one of a kind – you will walk on a glacier and marvel at its icy-blue hues, ride across the ice surface on an 8 WD truck, and see lava waterfalls of Hraunfossar. 

This recommended winter activity includes a 1-hour guided ice cave tour with all necessary safety equipment. You will be transported from Reykjavik to a modern bus equipped with entertainment amenities.

Then upon reaching closer to the site, you will ride a specially-modified 8WD glacier vehicle on the Langjökull Glacier. Inside the Langkökull Glacier, you are able to see recent and older volcanic eruptions including the infamous –  Eyjafjallajökull.

You will spend 45 minutes to an hour inside the glacier and then head to see the lava waterfalls. 

✅ BOOK HERE > ICE CAVE TOUR FROM REYKJAVIK TO LANGJOKULL GLACIER

3. Glacier Hike Adventure at Skaftafell National Park (5 hours) 

🖤 Availability – All year-round, but winter glacier hiking is more challenging (November to February)

Iceland is rightly called the land of fire and ice. The landscape of Iceland is a result of volcanic activity and glacier formation.  There are 9 main glaciers in Iceland – Snæfellsjökull, Drangajökull, Eiríksjökull, Langjökull, Hofsjökull, Tungnafellsjökull, Vatnajökull, Mýralsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull and Sólheimajökull.

These glaciers are located in the South or in the Midlands of Iceland. And because of weather and terrain conditions – the snow falls and stays there rather than melting away, making it perfect for winter glacier activities. Also, it’s not every day that you get to walk or explore a glacier!

Take this glacier hiking tour in the wilderness of Skaftafell , and hike across a stunning outlet glacier of Vatnajökull in the company of an expert guide. You will see different ice formations, including deep crevasses and ice sculptures, and get panoramic views over Skaftafell National Park.

The guide will share information about how glaciers are formed and their future. (Vatnajökull glacier has been rapidly shrinking).

✅ BOOK HERE >  GLACIER HIKE TOUR AT SKAFTAFELL NATIONAL PARK – VATNAJOKULL

ALTERNATIVE TOUR > 3-hour glacier winter hiking tour of the Sólheimajökull Glacier, 2 hours from Reykjavik   GLACIER HIKE AT SOLHEIMJOKULL

4. Northern Lights Tours from Reykjavik (4 hours)

🖤 Availability – September or early March

If you wish to chase the dancing green lights aka aurora borealis, then take the Iceland Northern Lights Tour ! The tours depart from the capital city of Reykjavik and last 2-4 hours. Typically tours start at 08:30 pm or after. Northern lights sighting occurs between 11:00 pm to 1:00 am.

We were taken aboard a bus and to a location, a little outside of Reykjavik. It was super cold that night, so dress warmly as you will be chasing northern lights outside the bus or minivan.

Keep in mind that these tours are weather dependent, which means that if it is raining or cloudy (which could happen in October or early March), the tour might be canceled. In the event, that the Northern Lights tour is canceled – you can get your money back or request a tour the next day.

✅ BOOK HERE > NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR FROM REYKJAVIK 

OTHER NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR > NORTHERN LIGHTS CRUISE FROM REYKJAVIK 

OR NORTHERN LIGHTS SUPER JEEP TOUR

5. Snowmobiling Tour with Golden Circle from Reykjavik (11 hours)

🖤 Availability – Winter snowmobiling months are from October to February

 A popular winter tour in Iceland is riding a snowmobile and exploring glaciers and wintery-snowy landscapes. One of the most popular snowmobile tours is on the Langjökull Glacier . This tour takes about 10 hours and is excellent as it includes sightseeing at the Golden Circle route.

In the Golden Circle routes, you will explore historic Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Langjokull Glacier. At the Langjokull Glacier, you will have an hour of snowmobiling activity. All the equipment will be provided. 

To enjoy the tour, bring in a valid driving license to operate the snowmobile. Kids are allowed to join in as passengers. Ensure you are wearing good hiking shoes. > Check these hiking boots from Ugg

✅ BOOK HERE > SNOWMOBILING WITH GOLDEN CIRCLE TOURS FROM REYKJAVIK 

6. Snowmobiling Tour on top of Eyjafjallajökull Glacier (3 hours)

🖤 Availability – All year

Snowmobiling tour on top of Eyjafjallajökull glacier is a 3-hour tour. This tour is perfect for ‘first-time riders’ and individuals looking for a scenic, fun ride, exploring and experiencing the wilderness, the glacier, and the breathtaking views over south Iceland. 

The tour starts from the base, Gljúfrabúi by Road 249, and then you are driven towards Eyjafjallajökull and up its slopes, onto the glacier base where the snowmobiles are kept. Snowmobiles’ tour is for an hour. All the equipment is provided. 

To enjoy the tour, bring in a valid driving license to operate the snowmobile and wear good hiking shoes .  

✅ BOOK TOUR > SNOWMOBILING ON EYJAFJALLAJOKULL GLACIER 

7. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon exploration from Reykjavik (14 hours)

A 14-hour breakfast-to-dinner sightseeing exploration of the southern coast of Iceland to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – the outlet of the largest glacier in Europe.

From your hotel in Reykjavik , you will be transferred to the southern coast and the dramatic Glacier Lagoon with floating icebergs and stunning views. We will come face to face with the glacier outlet and walk on the surface. 

On your way back to Reykjavik, you also explore the gorgeous waterfall Seljalandsfoss and visit Iceland’s southernmost village at Vík for dinner. 

✅ BOOK > JOKULSARLON GLACIER LAGOON TOUR

8. South Coast and Northern Lights Winter Tour (12- 17 hours)

🖤 Availability – South Coast is all year. Northern Lights hunting from October to February

This classic tour with a winter twist is a MUST do for your Iceland trip. In this small-group tour, you will experience the South Coast of Iceland with an added Northern Lights hunt in the evening.

In the morning, you will explore the Solheimajokull Glacier – an outlet glacier of Myrdalsjokull. Thereafter you will capture the unique black sand beach of Reynisfjara. The beach with its black sands, basalt sea stacks, and basalt column cave, make it ONE of the stunning beaches in Iceland. 

After Reynisfjara, a stop by the charming village of Vik is a must. Stop for lunch or souvenir shopping and then stop by Skogafoss waterfall. The breathtaking view of the fall with water cascading from old sea cliffs is a beauty to behold.

The last stop at Seljalandsfoss waterfall – a unique waterfall where you can walk behind it. Until late November you should be able to walk around it. We did it in October and our friends did it in late November. Conditions might be slippery so wear sturdy shoes.

After the day tour, you will be dropped off in Reykjavik for dinner or relaxation time and then in the late evening, you will be picked up again for the Northern Lights tour. 

We took this tour and LOVED it.

✅ BOOK TOUR > SOUTH COAST TOUR WITH NORTHERN LIGHTS

9. Iceland Golden Circle Tour with Secret Lagoon from Reykjavik (9- 10 hours) 

Another classic tour in Iceland – the Golden Circle route with sightseeing at the Þingvellir National Park the stunning Gullfoss waterfalls, and the unique geysers. Enjoy a bus ride from Reykjavik to the Golden Route and then stop at the Secret Lagoon for a thermal dip. 

The Secret Lagoon is a good alternative to visiting the famous Blue Lagoon. For Blue Lagoon, for some, you may or may not find a time slot that’s convenient for you. It is also expensive. The Secret Lagoon is an all-natural pool and less touristy. Imagine soaking in it, when there are slight snow showers. 

We enjoyed our time at the Secret Lagoon with light snow drizzle – it was heavenly – the water temperature kept me warm and fuzzy. Read our 3 days in Iceland Itinerary

The Iceland Golden Circle route is a classic tour just like the south coast tour!   

✅ BOOK TOUR > GOLDEN CIRCLE TOUR WITH SECRET LAGOON

The Golden Circle drive tour can be combined with Northern Lights as well as whale watching tours. Whale watching is open until November, however, depending on seasonality, it could change.

10. 3 Day Winter Adventure Tour from Reykjavik (3 days)

This winter tour combines the BEST of all in 3 days. Explore the Golden Circle route, the south coast of Iceland, go snorkeling between continents at Silfra and enter a blue ice cave and glacier hike on Europe’s largest glacier – Vatnajökull National Park in Southern Iceland . 

As part of the tour , your experience swimming between the continents will be recorded and you will receive GoPro images to take home as a souvenir. It is a MONEY SAVER option with activities and accommodation for 2 nights in Reykjavik included .

It is a small group adventure, with all planning, researching, and driving are taken care of! 

On this 3 day South Coast , Golden Circle, and ice caving and hiking tour you will explore the following – Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, Gullfoss waterfall with Þingvellir National Park winter day activities at the Vatnajökull National Park (hiking and ice caving).

From your hotel in Reykjavik, you will embark on day tours and explore Iceland. For a great price, you will cover sightseeing, transport, guided activities, and entry fees. 

✅ VIEW TOUR > 3 DAY WINTER ADVENTURE TOUR WITH ICE CAVE EXPERIENCE FROM REYKJAVIK

MORE OPTIONS FOR MULTI TOURS

Here are a few other multi day group tours in Iceland, ranging from 2 to 8 days. These winter packages offer accommodation and some meals.

You can mix a few activities together such as the Iceland south coast with Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, the blue cave experience, and more – depending on the drive/ Ring Road tour package offered.

✅ 2 DAY ICELAND TOUR > 2 DAY LAVA CAVE, HOT SPRINGS & SNAEFELLSJOKULL NATIONAL PARK TOUR

✅ 3 DAY ICELAND TOUR > 3 DAY GOLDEN CIRCLE, & SOUTH COAST TOUR

✅ 4 DAY TOUR > 4 DAY WINTER ADVENTURE TOUR – BLUE CAVE & GOLDEN CIRCLE

✅ 8 DAY RING ROAD TOUR > 8 DAY SOUTH, EAST AND NORTH ICELAND

Excursions in Iceland Winter and Travel Tips 

Read our full guide on Iceland Travel Tips . This guide has all the tools for planning your trip to Iceland like visa, winter travel, packing items, apps to download, budget tips, what to eat, and where to stay in Iceland.

How challenging is Iceland in winter?

As mentioned the winter months in Iceland are from November to late February. During this time driving on Icelandic roads is difficult. If you are not used to driving in winter conditions, it’s best to take one of these tours and sit back and enjoy it.

Also, keep in mind that most rental cars are manual, and if you require auto transmission it is pricier and has to be reserved in advance. 

If you are visiting Iceland for a short trip, consider staying in Reykjavik – the capital city, and then venture on day tours from here. You don’t need to have access to a private car to enjoy Iceland. These Iceland winter tours from Reykjavik will take care of return transportation, and guide you to the attractions. 

Temperature-wise, Iceland in winter averages from 0 °C (32 °F) on the south coast , and in the north it averages around −10 °C (14 °F). The lowest temperatures in the north go as low as around −25 to −30 °C (−13 to −22 °F). Northern Iceland is colder in winter than its southern counterpart. 

Typically, temperatures in Reykjavík range between -10 °C to 10 °C during winters. 

Packing warm clothing, and layering on is essential to enjoy winter adventure tours.

Note : Winters is a popular time for a visit to Iceland. Winter activities are different from those experienced in many other parts of the world. So definitely add these items to your bucket list and book them as soon as your trip is planned out. From Christmas to a few days after the New Year tours might be booked, so reserve your spot in advance. This is true for accommodation as well. 

Can you drive on the Iceland Ring Road route in winter?

Venturing out on the Ring Road, Iceland’s incredible 1,332-kilometer (820 miles ) route that loops around the island, presents a remarkable winter adventure. This epic journey encompasses a diverse array of landscapes, from snow-dusted mountains and icy waterfalls to geothermal hot spots and stunning coastal views.

But be prepared, winter driving in Iceland can be challenging due to volatile weather, low visibility, and road conditions. Snow, ice, and strong winds are common and daylight is limited. Therefore, ensure your vehicle is well-equipped with winter tires and always check the weather and road conditions before setting off.

If you are not comfortable driving in the snow, consider opting for a winter vacation package with a local tour operator. 

What is the best Iceland Tour company?

We have a few favorite operators who provide Iceland winter guided tours. These operators are based in the capital city (downtown area), and all round trip/ day tours from Reykjavik begins at/near the central bus station.  

• Reykjavik Sightseeing – We have personally experienced Reykjavik Sightseeing tours and would highly recommend their team of hard-working professionals. They are very prompt in responding to your queries. And they have a variety of packages available (close to 40 tours). 
• Reykjavik Excursions – Reykjavik Excursions is easily located in the Reykjavík–Keflavík Airport (Fly Bus). We used them to book our airport and Blue Lagoon transfers (For Blue Lagoon, you still have to book a package online, this is just a transfer. They do offer Iceland day tours as well as private tours
• Arctic Adventures – Ideal for all of your Iceland Adventure Tours like volcano tour, ice caving, glacier hiking, and snowmobile tours.
• Guide to Iceland – Guided day tours and options for multi-days in Iceland. They offer guided tours to Greenland
• Grayline – One of the reputable tour companies in Iceland, they promote accessible tourism. They are also one of the oldest tour companies in Iceland. 

Is it worth going to Iceland in winter?

Absolutely, Iceland in winter is truly a wonder to behold! The country transforms into a stunning winter wonderland with snow-covered landscapes that are nothing short of magical. 

Moreover, winter nights in Iceland provide the perfect conditions for one of nature’s most spectacular displays – the Northern Lights. The ethereal green, red, and purple hues dancing across the night sky are a sight you’ll never forget. However, do remember that daylight hours are significantly reduced in winter, but the soft winter light lends an enchanting ambiance to the scenery. 

Plus, tourist spots are less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience. So, yes, it might be chilly, but the unique experiences that Iceland offers in winter make it absolutely worth a visit.

We hope you enjoyed our list of best winter tours in Iceland. Happy Booking your next Iceland Adventure!

Additional Resources – Prepare for Winter Iceland Tours

• Reykjavik Guide – Budget activities to do in Reykjavik 
• Iceland Tips – Prepare for your travel
• Iceland Itinerary – Guide to experiencing Iceland in 3 days
• Iceland October Guide – Visit Iceland in October

Essential Europe Guides

• Europe Trip Guide – If this is your first trip to Europe, read our Europe Planning Guide
• Europe one week itinerary samples – 27 European Itinerary samples to craft your own
• Europe winter destinations – Top places to visit in Europe in winter
• Winter sun destinations – Winter sun destinations for December to February
• Best Winter Boots for Europe – Our top picks for winter boots
• Best Walking Shoes for Europe – Comfortable walking shoes in Europe
• Europe Packing – Get our in-depth packing list for Europe 
• Winter tours in Europe – Must do Europe winter tours

Pin – 10 Best Iceland Winter Tours to Book

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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Can I book this 10 Iceland tours in one and how, is there is a tour guide

Hi Catherine,

Yes there will be a tour guide in all the activities. Some do not include transportation and some do, which is highlighted within the post for each tour.

To book all the 10 tours, you will have to book them individually and arrange for accommodation. I would recommend looking at the multi-day option for booking up to a 7-day tour (with accommodation included).

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Experience true Nordic winter with these Iceland and Canada tours!

Winter Tours in Iceland

Selection of tours & activities during the winter season in iceland.

Winter Tours

• Day & Multi-day Tours in Winter
• Best winter activities

Looking for fun activities to do in Iceland in winter? A selection of winter tours and activities will make your time in Iceland truly memorable. Check out day and multi-day winter tours from Reykjavik and other popular locations.

Day & Multi-day Tours in Winter

Best winter activities in iceland, golden circle tours.

Golden Circle tours involve three of the most popular attractions in Iceland - Thingvellir National Park , Gullfoss Waterfall , and Geysir Geothermal Area . Join one of the most popular touristic routes in Iceland, where your knowledgeable guide will share all the fun and interesting stories about the location you’ll be visiting.

Northern Lights tours

Northern Lights is a spectacular natural phenomenon, attracting people from all over the world. Joining a guided Northern Lights tour increases your chances of seeing them since expert guides know the best places for spotting them.

Ice caving tours

Ice caves are naturally formed by the water running under the glacier. Each winter, new ice caves appear, and you’ll never get to visit the same ice cave two years in a row since they are constantly changing. Ice caving tours are the easiest and safest way to see these incredible ice formations.

Glacier hiking tours

Iceland is one of few places on Earth where you can actually see the glaciers. Glacier hiking is the most popular way to experience a glacier and the safest way to do that is to take a glacier hiking tour . Here an experienced glacier guide will take you through the most interesting parts and ensure your safety along the way.

South Coast tours

The South Coast of Iceland offers an array of attractions, from the majestic glacier and waterfalls to lava fields and black sand beaches. You can book a South Coast tour with a minibus or a combo tour with a glacier hike or horse riding.

Snorkeling tours

Silfra is one of the best places to go snorkeling and it is the only place where you can snorkel between the two tectonic plates, North American and Eurasian. Book a Snorkeling tour to have the best (and safest!) snorkeling experience in Iceland.

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Premium Iceland in Winter

8 days | hunt aurora and discover iceland’s natural wonders.

Search the sky for dancing lights by night and discover natural wonders by day on this eight-day Premium adventure. Travel with a local leader who brings the landscape to life as you view the mighty Gullfoss waterfall, drive through hardened lava fields in Skaftafell National Park, see the eerily calm waters of the Glacier Lagoon and wander among Reynisdrangar’s imposing basalt sea stacks. Take in dramatic views from your feature stay hotel and journey from Hvolsvollur to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula in pursuit of mother nature’s most spectacular show.

Trip overview

• Experience the breadth of Iceland's incredible natural phenomena - ancient volcanic rock formations, black pebble beaches, glacial lakes and geothermal lagoons.
• Travel with an experienced local leader who will explain geographic features, share stories of Iceland’s history and folklore and narrate your nightly sky watching with the science behind aurora borealis.
• Stay in the stylish Fosshotel for your Feature Stay, offering up priceless views of the surrounding landscape, modern comforts and an excellent restaurant that uses the freshest Icelandic produce.
• Embrace two incredible Exclusive Experiences; a home cooked dinner on a local farm, and a relaxing dip in the wonderfully scenic Krauma thermal pools.
• This trip is designed to give you the best chance at seeing the spectacular dancing lights of the aurora borealis in the northern sky.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Eden Reforestation Projects. Donations help them provide local employment opportunities and tackle climate change one tree at a time as they restore forests across 10 different countries.
• The northern lights are most visible during the colder months, when temperatures can reach -15C or below and snow is very likely. It's important to bring appropriate clothing such as a down jacket, thermals layers, gloves and suitable footwear.
• Many locations on this itinerary are remote, which means a few long drives. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the scenery and spend some time getting to know your fellow travellers.
• While there is a strong chance of seeing the northern lights in all their colourful glory (thanks to the high latitude, time of year and itinerary), nature makes no guarantees. On the rare occasion that your leader must alter the itinerary due to adverse weather, alternative activities will be offered.

Welcome to Reykjavik, the world’s most northerly capital and the starting point of your Icelandic adventure. Enjoy a complimentary airport arrival transfer to your hotel and settle in before meeting your tour leader and fellow travellers for a 6pm welcome meeting. If you arrive early, this little city punches above its weight when it comes to things to see and do. Perhaps take a trip to the National Museum, where you can see its permanent exhibition depicting the history of Iceland, or hit the city’s brightly coloured streets to explore an exciting display of shops and cafes. If you’re interested in visiting the Blue Lagoon at the end of the trip and haven’t already booked yourself a slot, it’s best to mention this to your local leader at the welcome meeting so they can attempt to arrange tickets. After the welcome meeting, celebrate the start of a new adventure with an included dinner with your group, where your tour leader will introduce you to the best of Icelandic cuisine.

• Hotel Reykjavik Centrum or similar (1 night)
• Reykjavik - Welcome Dinner
• Complimentary Arrival Transfer

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance and emergency contact details at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

The airport arrival transfer is only valid if arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-trip accommodation through us. Please provide your flight details at the time of booking, or at a minimum 14 days prior to travel, as we may not be able to confirm a request made within 14 days of travel.

This morning head to the geologically and historically important Thingvellir National Park. To those not in the know, the national park may seem to simply be a stunning natural wonder, but your leader will be on hand to provide historical context and explain that this was the original site of Iceland’s old parliament from AD 930. Visit the spouting hot springs of Geysir and Strokkur before driving to the spectacular Gullfoss, Iceland’s largest waterfall. After your visit, head to your base for the evening in Fludir. This afternoon you may like to pay a visit to the Secret Lagoon, a natural geothermal pool warmed by the nearby hot springs – this is a classic Icelandic experience. This evening will be a good opportunity to turn your head to the skies in search of the Northern Lights.

• Landhotel Hella or similar (1 night)
• Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park, Strokkur Geysir & Gullfoss Waterfall
• Aurora Spotting (weather dependent)
• Fludir - Secret Lagoon - ISK3000

You will cover a distance of approximately 150 km today / 2.5 hours. Please note that while there is a good chance of seeing the lights of the aurora this far north, there is no guarantee, as they are a natural phenomenon and weather conditions can affect visibility. There are a number of apps you can download that show current and forecast activity of the aurora around the world. Some of these apps have a function that allow you to be alerted at night when the aurora becomes visible in your current location. Remember to pack warm clothes, as temperatures can drop to below –5°C.

Begin the day by travelling through the lava fields of the Laki volcanic eruption in 1783, as your leader explains how this devasting event shaped not only Iceland’s landscape, but also its culture. Next is Skaftafell National Park where you’ll come face-to-face with Vatnajokull, Europe's biggest glacier. Carry on to some of the country’s most impressive, uninterrupted scenery and wander past the enormous basalt sea stacks at Reynisdrangar. Later discover the Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, your feature stay for this evening. This modern and contemporary hotel carefully considers its surroundings as spacious rooms with huge windows show off views of the mountains and sea, while stylish interiors reflect the colours of the world outside. This evening you’ll enjoy an included dinner at the excellent on-site restaurant serving up a creative list of dishes made with local Icelandic produce.

• Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon (feature stay) or similar (1 night)
• Skaftafell - National Park
• South Coast - Laki Lava Fields

You will cover a distance of approximately 350 km today / 4.5 hours

Start the day with a short drive on to Jokulsarlon, also known as the Glacier Lagoon. Take a walk around this astounding glacial lake and learn a little more about its history. Continue through the beautiful scenery of Iceland’s South Shore, marvel at the colours of the glaciers spilling down the mountains in the distance and admire the spectacular Skogafoss, a waterfall on the Skoga River. At 60 metres high and 25 metres wide, it's one of the largest and most impressive waterfalls in Iceland. The otherworldly topography you see today is bound to inspire questions, and your leader will be on hand to explain how these geographical wonders came to be. Continue to Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can walk right behind the stream of rushing water to see it from another angle. Next, return to Reykjavik and enjoy a free evening. Perhaps head to the Old Harbour to try the famous lobster soup, or if you’re feeling brave, the infamous fermented shark washed down with a shot of Brennivin (Icelandic Schnapps).

• South Coast - Reynisdrangar & Solheimajokull Glacier
• South Coast - Seljalandsfoss & Skogafoss Waterfalls
• Jokulsarlon - Glacier Lagoon

You will cover a distance of approximately 450 km today / 5.5 hours

After breakfast, see Reykjavik’s through the eyes of a local on a tour of the city with your leader. Learn the history of the Old Harbour and pass through the city centre. Reykjavik celebrates its uniqueness with stand-out pieces of architecture, which you’ll witness first-hand during visits to the Hallgrimskirkja church and the dome-shaped Pearl. Then head to the remote and geographically fascinating Snaefellsnes Peninsula, your home for the next two nights. On your way visit the Borgarfjordur area and be amazed by the stunning waterfalls of Hraunfossar and Barnafossar, then continue to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. Reap the benefits of your surroundings during a relaxing dip in the Krauma thermal pools, where waters from the hot spring mix with glacial waters to create the perfect bathing temperature. This evening you’ll enjoy a comforting dinner at your accommodation before looking to the skies in search of dancing lights.

• Hotel Snaefellsnes or similar (1 night)
• Krauma - Geothermal Baths Visit
• Borgarfjordur - Hraunfossar & Barnafoss Waterfalls
• Borgarfjordur - Deildartunguhver Hot Spring
• Reykjavik - Leader-led walking tour

You will drive approximately 300 km today / 4 hours. Please don't forget to have your swimwear and towel handy today for your visit to the geothermal pools of Krauma. Swimwear, towels and bathrobes are also available for hire at an additional cost on site.

Today you will explore the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, beginning with the Snaefellsjokull glacier, an icecap that covers a dormant volcano. Travel to the small fishing village of Arnarstapi, where a short stroll along the coastal cliffs will reveal rich birdlife. Stop by Djupalonssandur, a basaltic pebble beach framed by strange lava formations, then visit the charming village of Grundarfjordur, famous for its million-dollar views of Mt Kirkjufell. Travel to the horse farm of Lysuholl where a local will welcome you in for a delicious home-made dinner. Head back to your accommodation, and depending on the weather, rug up in warm clothing and head out in search of the northern lights.

• Snaefellsnes Peninsula - Snaefellsjokull, Arnarstapi & Stykkisholmur
• Snaefellsnes Peninsula - Liston's Stone Carving Workshop
• Snaefellsnes Peninsula – Homemade Farmhouse Dinner

Today you will return to Reykjavik. On the drive, your leader may share some stories of Norse mythology, so keep an eye out for elves and fairies along the way. Iceland's capital has an eclectic art and music scene, and this afternoon you may like to browse some of the city's excellent art galleries and museums. If you feel like something more active, you can take a ride on an Icelandic horse, or see killer whales just offshore on a whale watching expedition. Alternatively, if you are after another look at the Northern Lights, you can head out of town to chase them again this evening. Ask your leader for more information on these activities. Tonight you may wish to join your group for a final dinner at one of the city’s great restaurants.

• Reykjavik - Settlement Exhibition - ISK2500
• Reykjavik - Saga Museum - ISK3600
• Reykjavik - Whales of Iceland Museum - ISK4300
• Reykjavik - Maritime Museum - ISK2350
• Reykjavik - Harpa Concert Hall - Free
• Reykjavik - Perlan Museum - ISK5390

You will drive approximately 200 km today / 3 hours.

Your Icelandic journey comes to an end after breakfast this morning. Those looking to extend their stay can arrange additional nights' accommodation at the time of booking the trip (subject to availability).

• Reykjanes Peninsula - Blue Lagoon inc return transfer - ISK18980
• Nauthólsvík - Thermal Beach - Free
• Reykjavik - Lava Tunnel Tour - ISK11400

If you are interested in visiting the Blue Lagoon please keep in mind that it has limited availability, and during peak times tickets sell out far in advance. We recommend you book your time slot online in advance if you would like to be sure of a certain time/date for your visit: bluelagoon.com.

7 breakfasts, 4 dinners

Private Vehicle (Ford Transit van or similar)

Comfortable hotel (6 nights), Feature stay (1 night)

• Arrival airport transfer
• Tipping for accommodation, activities and transport
• Luggage transfer
• Daily breakfast and signature local meal experiences
• 24/7 on-ground support

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel. 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. There are a limited number of single supplements available per trip departure. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Iceland is open for travel. Check volcano updates here .

Winter Tours in Iceland

Best tours and activities for the winter season in Iceland

• BEST WINTER ACTIVITIES

BEST WINTER ACTIVITIES IN ICELAND

Ice caving tours.

Ice caves are naturally formed in glaciers during winter. They are shaped by the water going through and under the glacier. Each year new ice caves appear, so you'll never know what you'll get even after visiting a number of ice caves the previous year. Ice caving tours are the best and safest way to visit this incredible natural phenomenon.

Northern Lights Tours

The famous aurora borealis appear in the night sky in lots of shapes and mesmerizing colors. Join a  Northern Lights tour  to have your best chance of seeing them. Your experienced guide will lead you to some of the best spots for catching them and tell you more about this magical phenomenon.

Golden Circle Tours

Golden Circle is one of Iceland's most famous touristic routes in Iceland, including three major attractions - Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Geyser Geothermal Area. Join one of the Golden Circle tours , where your fun and knowledgeable guide will share the stories about each of those significant places and make your time even more worthwhile.

Horseback Riding Tours

Riding an Icelandic horse through the most scenic landscape is probably one of the best ways to experience Icelandic nature and the beauty it has to offer. The Icelandic horse is one of the friendliest animals you can encounter. But don't be fooled by their amiable appearance - these horses are extremely strong and can walk for miles through the rugged landscape. Join one of the  horseback riding tours  and see it for yourself!

Guided Multi-Day Tour

Multi-day tours  will allow you to see the best of Iceland in a limited amount of time. Go glacier hiking and ice caving in one day and visit a waterfall and black sand beach on the other - the multi-day tours offer a plethora of attractions.

Glacier Hiking Tours

Iceland is one of the few places on Earth where you can see glaciers. And the most popular way of exploring them is by going on a glacier hike. Join us on the glacier hiking tours , where the certified glacier guide will walk you safely through the glacial landscape and share the history of the glacier in Iceland.

ICELAND WINTER TOURS - FAQ

Is winter a good time to visit iceland.

Winter is an excellent time to visit Iceland. Even though summer is considered to be a high season for tourism in Iceland, visiting it during the winter unlocks many new opportunities, such as visiting mesmerizing  ice caves  or seeing the  Northern Lights . So don't be spooked by the cold, dress warm, and plan your winter trip to Iceland!

Is Iceland cheaper in winter?

Iceland in winter is relatively cheaper compared to summer as it experiences lower tourist crowds. So, even though Iceland is an expensive country, your trip doesn't have to be. Check out our blog post on  traveling to Iceland on a budget  to learn even more money-saving tips!

How many days do you need in Iceland?

It really depends on how many activities you want to do. So we say - the more, the better! Although, the average time span for visiting Iceland is 5-7 days which will allow you to see a considerable amount of its main attractions, such as Reykjavik, South Coast, and Golden Circle. Check out the  multiday tours  to explore more possibilities of what can be done in a limited amount of time!

Is it good to visit Iceland in January?

January is considered to be one of the quieter months. It's when all the fuss from the Christmas holidays is gone. But even so, January is an excellent time to visit Iceland because it's when all the ground is covered in sparkling snow, and it really becomes a winter wonderland. Still not convinced. Check out  this guide on visiting Iceland in January !

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Win a trip to Iceland

The Best Winter Tours and Activities in Iceland

• Michael Chapman
• March 11, 2024

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There are many fantastic activities during winter in Iceland, be it glacier hiking, ice caving, or snowmobiling. So, put on your woolly hat, drape your shoulders in a scarf, and let’s explore the many exciting options that an Icelandic winter has in store. 

The winter season in Iceland lasts between November and March. During that time, this otherwise green and pleasant land becomes blanketed with ice and snow, and the nights become so long as to cast each day in perpetual twilight.

It should be understood from the outset that there are many activities in Iceland that can be done in both the winter and summer. Great examples are visiting a lava cave, snorkelling or scuba diving in Silfra Fissure , sightseeing on the Golden Circle route, and many more.

Nevertheless, some activities are far better suited to the winter, and these should be prioritised during your visit. Most activities can be taken part in as single tours, but it is often the case that many will be included as part of a full itinerary, such as this Golden Circle Super Jeep tour with Snowmobiling . 

What glacier tours are available during the winter in Iceland?  

They don’t call Iceland “the land of ice and fire” for no reason. While it may be true that the country’s fearsome volcanoes have dominated global headlines in recent years, its glaciers remain as impressive and domineering as ever. 

There are 269 glaciers in Iceland, the largest among them being Vatnajökull , which covers around one-tenth of the entire country. With that in mind, it should come as little surprise that this mighty ice cap in southeastern Iceland is a popular choice for glacier tours.

Other tours take place at Langjökull – located in the western Highlands – as well as Mýrdalsjökull, and its outlet glacier Sólheimajökull, which are just north of the quaint coastal village, Vík í Mýrdal. There are also opportunities to explore Snæfellsjökull glacier, on the western promontory of Iceland.

Go hiking up a glacier 

Equipped with spiky crampons, walking poles, and the gumption to experience new heights, hiking Iceland’s glaciers remains a beloved activity amongst winter travellers. 

Like true mountain men, hikers will revel in the crevasses, moulins, and natural ice sculptures that characterise the pristine glacial landscape. Besides, such dizzying heights allow for breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding countryside.  

Experience the thrill of snowmobiling 

Die-hard adrenaline junkies may want to take their exploration of Iceland’s glaciers to the next level. Well, in such a case, there is no better option than taking to the ice on a snowmobile.

With the wind in their hair and the throttle at their thumbs, snowmobiling tours allow guests to cover far more ground (or ice, strictly speaking,) in a way that is both intensely memorable and incredibly fun.

Groups are led by certified guides who will be sure to provide their guests not only with clear leadership and instructions but also with the necessary equipment, including a protective helmet and outerwear.  

Both beginner and experienced riders alike are quite capable of taking part in a snowmobile tour. Anyone 18 years old or beyond, with a regular driving licence, is free to operate their own machine. Those without a licence can perch a ride as a passenger. 

The best places to take a snowmobiling tour during the winter in Iceland are at the glaciers Langjökull, Mýrdalsjökull, Vatnajökull, and the Tröllaskagi Peninsula. 

Discover crystal blue ice caves  

Beneath Iceland’s mighty ice caps, glittering caverns of sapphire entice visitors to behold their glory each winter season. Ice-caving tours are far easier than they sound, with many having accessible walkways that let you revel in the natural splendour of these frozen environments.

The vast majority of ice caves are naturally formed, with the most popular located beneath Katla and Vatnajökull. There is one notable exception however – the man-made ice tunnels built beneath Iceland’s largest ice cap, Langjökull, best enjoyed as part of the Into The Glacier experience. 

In certain locations around the country, it is even possible for guests to try their hand at ice climbing. While not for the faint of the heart, scaling a wall of frozen water is an experience without comparison. 

Experienced, certified guides will equip new climbers with ice axes and a harness, before relaying all the necessary steps to hone their skills on the ice. Two of the best places to try ice climbing in Iceland are Sólheimajökull glacier and Skaftafell Nature Reserve . 

Experience the Northern Lights in Iceland 

One of the greatest reasons for visiting Iceland in the winter is the chance to witness an astonishing dance – the Northern Lights! Otherwise known as the Aurora Borealis , Iceland’s skies will, from time to time, erupt in a flurry of colours. Green ribbons. Pink waves. Yellow crests, and dashes of red. 

Ancient Icelanders once treated these solar patterns with wary suspicion. They considered them omens of events to come. Today, they are widely appreciated as synonymous with just how magical winter in Iceland can be. 

As with any natural phenomena, there can be no guarantee of seeing the Northern Lights. But our ability to predict when and where they might appear is better than it ever has been before. There are many dedicated tour operators who will escort you to the best stops, as well as offer handy tips on how best to photograph them. 

If you’re planning to seek out this phenomenon for yourself, be sure to keep an eye on the Aurora Forecasts. That way, you will know when solar activity is at its strongest. Also, plan to seek them out on nights devoid of cloud cover, in locations with little light pollution. 

What wildlife tours are available during the winter in Iceland? 

It might seem too cold for them, but many animals live in Iceland during the winter. With that said, many of the migratory birds that make Iceland their summer home leave during the winter, but that does not mean there are no opportunities to find wildlife. So what are some of the more popular wildlife tours available during this season? 

Whale-watching in the winter in Iceland 

Whale-watching tours are available in both the winter and summer in Iceland, but the colder season does present some unique opportunities. For one thing, playing witness to the snowy Icelandic landscape from the deck of a seafaring vessel feels strangely fitting for a country so intertwined with the ocean.

There are many whales and dolphins that can be seen in Icelandic coastal waters. Some of the most common species include Minke whales, Humpbacks, and Harbour porpoises. In some areas, it may also be possible to spot Sperm whales, Orcas, and even our planet’s largest living mammal, the mighty Blue whale.

There are also a variety of departure points for your whale-watching adventure. Reykjavik, of course, provides the chance to see these majestic animals in the waters of Faxaflói Bay . Other popular places include northern towns like Akureyri and Húsavík. To the west, on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Ólafsvík and Grundarfjörður also provide fantastic sea tours. 

Before embarking on your whale-watching trip, make sure to wear warm layers, a woolly hat, and gloves. To help you stay warm, operators will provide you with outer thermal wear. But winter accessories are still crucial to avoid the sharpness that comes with brisk sea winds. 

Ride Icelandic Horses in winter 

It is possible to ride Iceland’s majestic, yet stumpy horses in summer and winter, but the latter offers such a fantastic perspective of the landscape, it would seem careless not to give it a special mention. 

Taking to the saddle, your guide will lead you down hidden trails, passing through twisted lava fields and farmland meadows nestled beneath a glittering coat of snow. As your appreciation of Iceland’s rural terrain grows, so too will your love of this special horse breed. 

Horse riding tours are open to both beginner and experienced riders, and your guide will set the pace not only to your ability level, but also your confidence riding. 

With that said, working in close proximity to animals can be nerve-wracking for some people. But if it’s any consolation, Icelandic horses are considered a highly intelligent and patient breed, so have no fear saddling up upon these miniature mounts.   

Soak in Iceland’s Spas and Hot Springs in winter 

There are countless ways of staying active during the winter in Iceland, but on vacation, a more appealing option can be to simply slow down, relax, and unwind. 

In such circumstances, the nation’s luxury geothermal spas and steamy hot springs provide the perfect antidote. Note that hot springs describe pools that are found naturally within the landscape; the former are specific attractions that will often require pre-booking. 

Feel the heat in Luxury Spas across Iceland 

There are many fantastic mineral-rich spas to choose from. As Iceland’s most famous luxury retreat, the Blue Lagoon is an obvious choice. With its milky blue waters and silica-rich mud masks, it is little wonder that this geothermal bath has become one of Iceland’s best-known attractions. 

Surrounded by the dark volcanic fields of the Reykjavik Peninsula, many guests choose to stop by the Blue Lagoon either at the beginning or the end of their vacation. This is for the simple fact that Keflavík Airport is only a short distance away. 

But there are many other great spas to choose from. One of the newest to the scene is the Sky Lagoon , only a five-minute drive from downtown Reykjavik and boasting a stunning infinity pool. 

This horizon edge on the water allows for great views of the ocean. More than that – the President of Iceland’s iconic residence. Guests can also take part in their healing wellness ritual. It includes a warm sauna inside a reconstructed turfhouse, a mist shower, a refreshing cold plunge. 

There are many other spas located elsewhere across the country. In Reykholt, for instance, Krauma Baths offer serenity and comfort through warm waters fed by Europe’s most powerful hot spring, Deildartunguhver. 

Not far away, in the village of Flúðir, the Secret Lagoon adds a sense of authenticity to your experience. It is built beside the steaming hot pockets of the Hverahólmi geothermal area. The Secret Lagoon is well known as the oldest outdoor geothermal pool in Iceland. 

In the north, Myvatn Nature Baths has delighted guests since first opening in 2004 with its placid blue waters and lakeside views. 

Embrace nature with Iceland’s hot springs 

For anyone hoping to avoid the inevitable artificiality that comes with Iceland’s luxury spas, the nation’s naturally-formed hot springs might be a better bet. 

But first, a word of warning – temperatures can vary greatly between hot springs, so make sure not to hurt yourself by jumping in without checking their heat levels first. 

Hrunalaug is one of the more isolated, yet widely beloved hot springs. This small, but local-favourite is closeby to Flúðir village. You will need to venture off the beaten track to find it. Whilst not built-up by any means, Hrunalaug does have a small and rustic changing hut on-site. It provides some level of shelter when changing in and out of your swimsuit. 

Another popular hot spring – or should we say, river – can be discovered amidst the sloping hillsides of Reykjadalur Valley. Nearby to Hveragerði town, the hot river can be visited after a beautiful 3 km [1.8 mi] hike. Please be vigilant that some parts of the river are much hotter than others. So do be sure to, at least, dip a toe in before jumping in with abandon. 

In Summary 

For those who can handle the cold weather, Iceland’s winter season promises a variety of experiences like nowhere else can. 

Be you an adventure-seeker or a travelling homebody, you’re promised memories sure to stick with you for years to come. 

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Iceland Active Winter Wellness

Combine thrilling activities with blissful hot spring visits 

On this 8-day winter self-drive tour of Iceland, you’ll see a huge slice of the country. Get stuck into some unforgettable adventure activities. Trek across a glacier to an ice cave and head underground into a lava tube, before relaxing in a few of Iceland’s geothermal baths.

This itinerary will take you to jaw-dropping waterfalls, bubbling hot springs, and an awe-inspiring glacier lagoon. You’ll also get chances to chase the Northern Lights in the evening thanks to the winter darkness.

Because this is a self-drive package, you get to set your own pace and stop as often as you like. And your itinerary is easy to customize with extra activities like a glacier walk or spa experience. What more could you ask for from a week-long winter trip to Iceland?

On this tour you will...

Soak in Iceland’s most iconic geothermal pool – the Blue Lagoon

Tour dazzling ice caves beneath the towering Katla volcano

Road trip around the breathtaking Snæfellsnes peninsula 

Visit Vatnshellir cave, where you can walk along an ancient lava tube

Unwind in the warm, soothing waters of Fontana Spa

See the beautiful south coast and travel the famous Golden Circle route

Top attractions

Downtown Reykjavík

Blue Lagoon

Þingvellir National Park

Geysir and Strokkur

Snæfellsjökull Glacier & National Park

Seljalandsfoss

Skaftafell Nature Reserve

Vatnajökull Glacier & National Park

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Deildartunguhver

Hraunfossar and Barnafoss

Breiðafjörður bay

Why book a self-drive trip with Iceland Tours?

Start your tour on the date that suits you

24/7 emergency helpline in Iceland

Secure your booking with just a 5% deposit

New rental cars with 2 drivers as standard

Handpicked local accommodation options

Best Price Guarantee

Your 8-day self-drive itinerary

Day 1 – welcome to iceland.

You’ve arrived in the Land of Fire and Ice and it’s time for your wintry adventure to begin. Collect your rental car from Keflavík Airport, drive to Reykjavík, and get settled into your hotel.

Then head out into the city and soak up the atmosphere. You could wander Laugavegur, the main street, and stop for a drink or bite to eat at a local café or restaurant. Or take a relaxing dip in a local swimming pool to recharge after your journey.

If your flight lands in the morning, you might have time for one of the optional activities below.

Included & extra activities

FlyOver Iceland

Sky Lagoon Pure Pass

Perlan Museum Wonders of Iceland & Northern Lights Show

Day 2 – Waterfalls & ice cave expedition

This morning, make your way out of the city to Iceland’s south coast. Here you’ll come across two of Iceland’s most spectacular waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. You can even walk behind the plume of Seljalandsfoss!

In the afternoon, you’ll join a special ice cave expedition from the village of Vík. Hop aboard a super jeep and let your experienced driver-guide whisk you off to the edge of the Mýrdalsjökull glacier. Now it’s time to gear up (equipment provided) for your hike across the glacier surface!

Once you arrive at the ice cave, you’ll be able to peer and even walk inside. You’ll be blown away by the ice cave’s mesmerizing walls, which appear to glow blue. 

Day 3 – Skaftafell glacier & Jökulsárlón lagoon

Continue along the south coast to Vatnajökull National Park, home to Iceland’s largest glacier. This slice of the country is studded with natural gems. You could take a short hike to the Svartifoss waterfall, set against a backdrop of hexagonal lava columns. 

Then stop at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, where you can watch icebergs drifting slowly out to sea. Some of them wash ashore at nearby Breiðamerkursandur, also known as ‘Diamond Beach’. The sight of the clear-blue ice glistening against the jet-black sand is truly stunning.

In the evening, you’ll head back to Vík/Kirkjubæjarklaustur for a sound night’s sleep.

Day 4 – Geysir, Gullfoss & Fontana spa

Your trip to Iceland wouldn’t be complete without touring the famous Golden Circle. Today you’ll see two of the legendary natural attractions on this popular route: Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall. 

At Geysir, you’ll witness the powerful Strokkur geyser erupting into the air every few minutes. The surrounding Haukadalur valley is also dotted with boiling hot springs and steaming vents.

A short drive away you’ll find the Gullfoss waterfall, also known as the ‘Golden Falls’. One of Iceland’s most majestic cascades, it’s named for the yellow-tinged waters that flow over it.

After a day of sightseeing, relax at the Fontana Geothermal Baths on the shores of Laugarvatn lake (admission included). If you’re feeling brave, you can dip your toes into the chilly waters of the lake before warming up in the naturally heated ‘hot pots’.

Day 5 – Þingvellir National Park & West Iceland

After a restful night’s sleep, thanks to your spa experience, you’ll head to Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park. This history-laden site is the cradle of Icelandic democracy, where the parliament would meet in Viking times. 

The area also has great geological significance: here you can see where the North American and European tectonic plates meet. This is the only place on Earth where you can actually walk this boundary.

In the afternoon, head west toward the Borgarfjörður area. This is Iceland’s largest bay, home to thousands of small islands. You’ll find the star attractions here slightly inland though. Stop at the Deildartunguhver hot spring, perhaps taking a dip in the Krauma baths (optional upgrade).

Then check out by the Barnafoss and Hraunfossar waterfalls, whose brilliant blue waters are fed by a lava field.

Day 6 – Snæfellsnes peninsula – Iceland in Miniature

Today you’ll explore the Snæfellsnes peninsula in West Iceland. It’s sometimes called ‘Iceland in Miniature’ thanks to its incredibly varied scenery. The peninsula is also dotted with charming fishing villages, including the main town of Stykkishólmur.

Follow the road to the far end of the peninsula and you’ll end up at Snæfellsjökull National Park. Here you’ll find glaciers, lava fields, and yellow and red beaches. There are also otherworldly rock formations along the cliffs, including the Arnarstapi sea stacks.

It’s in the national park that today’s main activity takes place. Descend a spiral staircase into the Vatnshellir lava tube. This stunning cavern was formed 8,000 years ago during a volcanic eruption, and now you can walk where lava once flowed.

Day 7 – Exploring Reykjavík & Blue Lagoon relaxation

Head back to Reykjavík for a day of urban discovery. You could check out the city’s many museums and galleries, including the Settlement Exhibition with its excavated Viking longhouse. Or spend day exploring the old town’s streets, which are lined with traditional multicolored houses.

Once you’ve had a chance to experience the city, make your way to the Blue Lagoon spa (admission included). There you can relax in its bright blue waters, while enjoying a free drink and silica mud mask.

In the evening, it’s time to return to Reykjavík. Before returning to your hotel, why not have dinner at one of the city’s food halls (not included)? 

Day 8 – Goodbye Iceland

Your last day in Iceland is here. Depending on your flight time, you might be able to squeeze in some more wandering around Reykjavík in the morning.

When it’s time to leave, return your rental car at Keflavík Airport. Go back home with memories of an epic trip, and the photos to prove it!

What’s included?

Detailed itinerary

Budget, Comfort, or Quality accommodation every night

Continental breakfast every day

Rental car of your choice for 7 days

2 authorized drivers as standard

Unlimited mileage

Unlimited in-car Wi-Fi

Collision damage waiver

Katla Ice Cave – Under the Volcano tour

Laugarvatn Fontana admission

Vatnshellir lava cave tour

Blue Lagoon Comfort admission (includes towel rental, silica mud mask, 1 drink)

24/7 emergency helpline when you’re in Iceland

VAT, taxes & service fees

Flights to Iceland

Fuel & parking charges

Food & drink, unless otherwise stated

Attraction entrance fees, unless otherwise stated

Personal travel insurance

Accommodation

FAQs about our self-drive trips

How does an iceland self-drive trip work.

On a self-drive trip with Iceland Tours, you’ll be at the wheel of the rental car of your choice and free to go pretty much where you want, whenever you want.

We provide a detailed itinerary to help you plan your route and where you want to stop along the way. But it’s up to you whether you want to stick to it or go your own way. If you do take detours, make sure that you aren’t too far from your accommodation on any given night.

That said, it’s a good idea to stick to the suggested itinerary if you’ve never visited Iceland before. Created by our Reykjavík-based travel experts, it contains plenty of things for you to and see and do on each leg of your trip. One thing’s for sure: you won’t be short on ideas!

You also get unlimited in-car Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected and use maps on your phone for navigation.

Can I drive in Iceland and what kind of license do I need?

You have to be at least 20 years old to rent a car in Iceland, or 23 years old for larger vehicles like jeeps and vans. You’ll need to have held a valid driver’s license for at least 1 year and present a credit card when you collect your car.

You don’t need an International Driving Permit unless your license is not in Latin script (for example, Arabic or Chinese).

Find out more about car rental in Iceland .

Can I customize this self-drive trip?

Yes! It’s possible to add extra activities or extend your trip with additional nights in Reykjavík or the countryside. Check the itinerary above to see what activities are available on what day.

When will I receive my travel documents?

Once you’ve paid your deposit for your trip, we’ll finalize bookings for your accommodation, rental car, and any activities. As soon as we receive confirmation of everything, we’ll email your travel documents to you.

We aim to finalize everything within a few weeks of receiving your booking request, but in busy periods this might take longer. That said, you’ll always receive all of your documents before your departure date.

When and where can I pick up my rental car?

You’ll be able to pick up your rental car at Keflavík International Airport from the arrivals hall. Before your trip, we’ll send you information about where to go in the terminal to collect your keys.

Make sure you have your driver’s license and credit card ready when you collect your vehicle.

If you land late at night, you can use the out-of-hours phone at the pick-up desk to contact someone who will be able to help you.

You also have the option to collect your rental car in Reykjavík, if you’re planning to spend some extra days in the city before your trip starts. If you’d like to do this, please let us know in the ‘Special requests’ box at checkout.

Is it safe to drive in Iceland in winter? Are the roads closed?

Although Iceland’s weather can sometimes get in the way, it’s perfectly possible to have a safe self-drive trip in winter. The main roads are cleared regularly and there is good 4G coverage in most of the countryside if you need it.

That said, roads can sometimes close in winter if there are storms or heavy snowfall. When you book with Iceland Tours, you’ll get access to a 24/7 helpline while you’re in Iceland. Rest assured that help is at the end of the phone when you need it.

We’ll often contact you proactively if we think your trip will be affected by bad weather and adjust your plans accordingly. This means you’ll always stay safe and get the most out of your trip, no matter the weather.

Don’t take our word for it

See what hundreds of fellow travelers have to say about their trips with Iceland Tours.

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The Complete Guide to Visiting Iceland in Winter

I bet when you tell your friends and family you’re planning a trip to Iceland in winter, a few puzzled gazes will await you. So, let’s put the cold stares to bed with this epic guide to visiting this Nordic wonderland during winter.

Wait… A trip to Iceland? In winter? Sounds mad. Perhaps, but sometimes the most foolish-seeming plans deliver the most incredible results. Now, let me shatter any illusion you might have that Iceland is anything but incredible as winter creeps in. 

Oh, and any lingering thoughts on when the best time to visit Iceland will also end, as there is a clear winner. But you’ll only find that out once you know what the country showcases when the cold comes calling.

I promise I’ll keep the phrase “Iceland is magical” to a minimum. At least, I’ll try. Although once you see what it has in store, you might struggle to stop yourself from saying it yourself. 

Enough small talk. Winter is coming, and so is your trip to Iceland. Let’s go.

Brilliant Things to Do in Iceland in Winter

Feast your eyes on the northern lights.

Sure, Iceland brims with impressive things to do and see, equalled only by its incredible places to visit. But nothing can compare with the country’s main attraction — the dazzling and mesmerising Aurora Borealis .

I’m rarely at a loss for words, but if there’s one thing that few words could ever do justice, it would be the Northern Lights. It’s a natural phenomenon that results in dancing waves of colour in shades of blue, green, and purple. 

And thanks to the dark, long nights in Iceland, the winter is the absolute best time to see the northern lights.

Although it’s never a guarantee that you’ll see the magical light show, you can better your chances at a few locations. Reykjavik in the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula, the town of Akureyri or on the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, to name a few.

Tip: To make it easier to view this stunning display, book this 4-hour northern lights bus tour .

Dive Into Iceland’s Natural Hot Springs

Technically (and legally), you’re not allowed to dive into the spectacular hot springs of Iceland . On the other hand, gently slipping into one of the 45 dedicated springs is a far more calming experience on a cold winter’s day.

You can rest assured that none of these natural hot springs come underrated. There’s a reason (or two) that bathing in any of them often ranks as the best thing to do in Iceland in winter.

The best bit? Spending more than seven days in Iceland gives you ample opportunity to explore as many as you want. Some of the most popular include Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon, close to Reykjavik.

A bit further along the Golden Circle (more on that in a bit), you’ll find the not-so-Secret Lagoon. Or, if you’re up north, worthwhile options include the Myvatn Nature Baths and Geosea in Husavik.

Tip: Book a day trip from Reykjavik that includes the iconic Blue Lagoon. Or get this entrance ticket that includes entry, a drink, and a complimentary mud mask.

Discover The Golden Circle

What should you include in your Iceland winter travel plan? Without a doubt, including the Golden Circle is a must. A long-standing debate over which is more popular, the Northern Lights or the Golden Circle, continues daily.

Locally, the Golden Circle refers to three of the most iconic sights the south of Iceland offers. All conveniently located along a picturesque road that seems almost ethereal. 

First up is the majestic 2-tiered Gullfoss waterfall. Then come the enticing pools and imposing geysers of the Geysir Geothermal Park.

Finally, the circle concludes with Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Filled with historical, geological, and religious highlights, and even some Game of Thrones filming locations.

Tip: Due to the popularity of the Golden Circle, book this full-day tour from Reykjavik , which fits into any Iceland itinerary.

Spend Christmas in Reykjavik

When visiting Iceland in winter, you can bet that you’ll be around for the annual Christmas festivities hosted in Reykjavik in winter. Keen to find out what makes this unique? Well, for starters, the magnificent citywide illuminations.

In downtown Reykjavik, you’ll find the famed 5-metre tall Yule Cat, constructed from tons of steel and over 6,000 lights. Another downtown highlight is the immense Oslo Christmas tree sent to Iceland as a gift from Norway each year.

The official Christmas celebrations begin on the 12th of December. It culminates with Þorláksmessa (St. Þorlákur’s Day) on the 23rd, celebrated city-wide with traditional food and loads of shopping. The season ends on the 6th of January with a massive fireworks display and bonfires.

Tip: Visit the Lake Mývatn area in northern Iceland to hunt for the 13 Yule Lads, a huge part of Icelandic Christmas culture.

Fly Over Iceland

How does an immersive bird’s eye view experience of the Icelandic landscape sound? Pretty enticing, am I right? Well, as impressive as a helicopter tour over Iceland sounds, sometimes you just can’t fit it into your schedule.

And that’s precisely where FlyOver Iceland comes in. A multi-sensory experience, this flight simulation ride brings everything you’d hope to see to life breathtakingly. Located in Reykjavik’s Grandi district along the city’s waterfront, it’s an easy gateway to “see” some of the best places to visit in Iceland in winter.

Upon entering, you’ll find yourself in an “Icelandic longhouse” for some intros to the country’s history. Next, is a separate room lined with suspended kinetic screens, which display stunning visuals of the northern lights and erupting volcanoes.

Finally, the third room will have you strapped into mesh seats atop a state-of-the-art moving platform. This platform, surrounded by a 20-metre spherical screen, takes you on a 9-minute “flight” across Iceland. 

Tip: Book your entry tickets in advance, as they sell out quickly.

Visit the Ice Caves & Go Glacier Hiking

Okay, here I go. Iceland in winter is magical. And you don’t have to delve very deep (pun intended) into any of the majestic ice caves of Iceland before you’ll agree. 

Prepare yourself, though, as Iceland has a lot of mesmerising caves shaded in an array of blue tones.

Most of these labyrinths lie beneath the Vatnajökull or Kötlujökull glaciers. Due to the genuinely fantastic experience, booking a guided tour through one (or more) is best. But what about glacier hiking?

For those looking to get their hiking thrills, Vatnajökull is not just famous for its icy caves. It’s also the site of some enjoyable and memorable hiking trails. As the largest icecap in Europe, you’ll find it within Skaftafell National Park. 

Tip: Combine the exciting adventure of ice cave exploring with the thrill of glacier hiking with this Skaftafell Cave Tour and Glacier Hike .

Horseback Riding in Iceland

By now, it’s no secret that Iceland stuns with its natural beauty. And, yes, experiencing these by bus, jeep, or even a massive 8WD all-terrain vehicle is fun. But why not opt for a stunningly unique way of exploring? 

An iconic part of Iceland’s beauty lies in its wildlife, and few compare to the majesty of Icelandic horses . These shaggy-coated horses abound throughout the country on numerous farms and free-roaming areas.

It’s not uncommon to see these majestic beasts during your visit to Iceland in winter, but going for a horseback riding tour is pure bliss. You can visit any of the farms around Iceland, with Laxnes Horse Farm near Mosfellsbær and Íshestar Riding Centre in Hafnarfjörður the most popular.

Tip: Opt for a group tour if you don’t want to go on a solo horseback mission. One of the best is a Horseback Riding Lava Tour , which takes you through sweeping lava fields. Another is this Red Lava Horse Riding tour from Reykjavik.

Explore Some of Iceland’s Best Museums

No one can blame you solely for visiting Iceland to explore its captivating landscapes. But, one of the best things to do in Iceland in winter is delve into the country’s culture and heritage.

Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland, is also its cultural heart. You’ll find numerous museums, parks, art galleries, and other attractions throughout the city. Its must-visit museums include the National Museum of Iceland, the Perlan Museum , and the Árbaer Open Air Museum.

If you’re not one for museums, Reykjavik has some other great places to visit. The famous Hallgrímskirkja Church — a towering structure — reaches 244 feet and has been an iconic Icelandic landmark for decades.

Tip: Most museums and other cultural attractions come included on a guided walking tour of Reykjavik led by an actual Viking.

Eating and Drinking Your Way Through Winter in Iceland

Where to drink.

You’ll often need some liquid courage to endure the colder days in Iceland in winter. And here are the two watering holes you should visit.

Kaffibarinn

One thing you need to know about most cafés in Iceland, and Reykjavik specifically, are that they tend to transform come sundown. During the day, Kaffibarinn is a fantastic coffee shop, and at night, it takes on a nightclub feel. Expect at least one impromptu dance party, no matter when you visit.

Magic Ice Bar

An iconic bar in Reykjavik and a guaranteed fun experience is sipping on tantalising cocktails served within a sub zero bar. 

Welcome to Magic Ice Bar, located in the city’s downtown just off Rainbow street. Everything here comes made of ice, from benches to the glasses your drinks arrive in. 

Tip: Book your entrance ticket to Magic Ice Bar in advance, as this also comes with a complimentary drink.

Where to Eat

Nothing beats a hearty meal after a day of adventuring through Iceland, and one thing the country does very well is serve up fantastic cuisine. Visit these two culinary highlights.

Grillmarkaðurinn

A famous grill market, this high-end restaurant presents itself as a dining experience set in the garden of Eden. Blending nature and cuisine here, you can feast on unique meat-focused dishes. You’ll find whale, horse, reindeer, and even puffin dishes on the menu.

A Michelin-starred restaurant, it often features as Iceland’s best, and for a good reason. Expect mouthwatering dishes such as traditional fish stew or reindeer tartar. 

And what’s dinner without a view? From your table, you’ll also have some stunning scenery to gawk at.

Where to Stay When Visiting Iceland in the Winter

Explore the best places to stay in Iceland during the winter months.

Exeter Hotel (Mid-Range)

Located in the heart of Reykjavik, this 4-star contemporary hotel is the ideal accommodation for any Icelandic adventure. The Exeter exudes opulence with industrial decor, modern touches, and luxurious wood finishings. The best part is that Exeter delivers luxury at an affordable price tag.

Check Prices and Availability

Umi Hotel (Luxury)

At the foot of the famous Eyjafjallajökull volcano in southern Iceland sits the Umi Hotel . Considered somewhat off the beaten path, it’s the perfect spot to find solitude while you benefit from stunning views. The property offers numerous activities, including horseback riding.

Practical Tips for Planning Your Visit to Iceland during Winter

• Iceland is a popular destination, so be sure to book your accommodation in advance, check the opening hours of attractions, and plan accordingly.
• To make the most of Iceland’s winter activities, check out my packing lists to ensure you’ve got everything you need.
• Remember that Iceland isn’t the only place to experience a fantastic wintery adventure. Have a look at some other wonderful winter destinations in Europe. You can thank me later.

Iceland in Winter: Map

Iceland in Winter: Read Next

• Incredible Things to do in Iceland
• Northern Lights Hotels in Iceland You Need to Visit
• 7 Day Iceland Itinerary
• 12 Hot Springs in Iceland You Need to Visit
• Camping in Iceland: The Top Spots
• Travelling in Iceland: What You Need to Know
• Best Places + Areas to Stay in Iceland

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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Follow me on Instagram for travel inspiration, tips, and guides.

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Winter Tours in Iceland

Imagine marvelling at frozen landscapes during the day and hunting the northern lights at night. Your personal travel consultant will book all your accommodation, activities and transportation for your winter tour of Iceland.

39 tours available

Prices per adult based on bookings for two

• Northern lights tours
• New Year's packages
• Christmas in Iceland
• Winter self drive

ALTERNATIVES

• Family trips
• Honeymoon & romance
• Summer tours

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Northern Lights Circle Tour

Winter Highlights & Northern Lights

Ice cave & glacier lagoon.

Natural Wonders of Iceland - Winter

Best of south & west iceland - winter, south & west iceland classic - winter, iceland full circle classic - winter, south iceland at leisure - winter, best of south iceland - winter, golden circle, south coast & blue lagoon, a new year’s to remember, northern lights, super jeeps and nye party, glacier lagoon & northern lights, a christmas to remember, super jeeps, glaciers & blue lagoon, new year’s in iceland, golden circle, northern lights & nye party, active iceland - winter, snowmobiling, ice tunnel & golden circle, new year’s & northern lights, best of south iceland & new year's eve party, northern lights circle tour - private.

1217702 ISK

Reykjavik, Waterfalls, Northern Lights

Winter highlights - private, golden circle classic - winter, golden circle, blue lagoon & northern lights, golden circle & south coast - winter, south iceland classic - winter, south iceland & into the glacier - winter, south & west iceland at leisure - winter, christmas & new year’s in iceland, northern lights & new years eve fun, iceland full circle at leisure - winter, best of south & north iceland - winter, golden circle, south coast & lake mývatn, northern lights adventure in the westfjords, reykjavik, northern lights, golden circle express - winter, classic south coast - winter, golden circle & south coast - winter - private, iceland full circle classic - winter - private.

1598386 ISK

Christmas & Northern Lights

Best of south iceland, christmas in the countryside, south iceland & northern lights, iceland luxury adventure - winter, northern lights, winter wonders & blue lagoon retreat.

1157452 ISK

Iceland Luxury Escape - Winter

Northern lights, south iceland & blue lagoon retreat.

1794264 ISK

Iceland Ring Road in Luxury - Winter

2602922 ISK

Iceland Luxury Escape at Leisure - Winter

2328410 ISK

Iceland Luxury Adventure at Leisure - Winter

1639689 ISK

South & West Iceland Classic Winter - Private

1220182 ISK

South Iceland at Leisure Winter - Private

1026450 ISK

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About Your Iceland Winter Tour

Visit Iceland in winter to witness ethereal scenery and chase the aurora borealis. You could explore Iceland on a guided or self-guided tour, with a personalised itinerary designed by local travel experts. When you book Iceland winter vacation packages with Nordic Visitor, you get:

• An authentic winter travel experience arranged by an established and trusted agency • A dedicated travel consultant who will organise your tour • All relevant bookings for your chosen package • A detailed online personal itinerary and travel guide • Hand-picked accommodation for a relaxing stay • 24/7 emergency phone support for peace of mind

Nordic Visitor has made it easy to start planning your winter tour. Simply follow these steps:

1. Pick your favourite Nordic Visitor tour 2. Confirm your package 3. Check your confirmation email 4. Book your flights 5. Get ready for your trip

WHY CHOOSE NORDIC VISITOR

Book With Confidence

Secure your trip your way with Nordic Visitor. Book a tour with as little as 10% deposit. With a 20% deposit or more, you will receive our Cancellation Protection free of charge. You can also pay the full price right away to guarantee today’s exchange rate. Terms & conditions apply.

You are in good hands

Unexpected weather or event? No problem. Nordic Visitor will handle any unforeseen situations during your trip. Your travel consultant will rework your itinerary, re-booking your accommodation and activities while keeping you safe and informed. Our emergency 24/7 helpline means we’re only a call away.

Trusted local travel experts

Since 2002, Nordic Visitor has been helping visitors experience the best of Iceland. Our local travel consultants all know Iceland inside out and will use their unrivalled expertise to plan your dream trip.

Great reviews

Nordic Visitor is dedicated to the best service quality, and this is reflected year after year when TripAdvisor awards us with their Certificate of Excellence. We also take great pride in our customer feedback: 97% of our travellers say they would recommend us to friends and family.

Stress-free experience

Relax and look forward to your tour while Nordic Visitor arranges everything on your behalf. Your dedicated travel expert will provide you with a complete itinerary, having made all the bookings before you arrive in Iceland. We’ll also be on hand throughout your trip should you need us at any point.

Customisable tour options

These winter packages include recommended tours and routes for your time in Iceland. However, we will happily tailor your itinerary according to your preferences. We can add extra nights, activities, upgrades and destinations to your liking, so that you experience Iceland in a way that suits you perfectly.

Full financial protection

With Nordic Visitor, you have peace of mind knowing your holiday arrangements with us are 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with European Union laws on Package Travel regulations. This guarantees you a refund in the unlikely event that the company experiences insolvency.

WINTER TOUR REVIEWS

Find out what our wonderful clients thought of their winter trip around Iceland.

Beatrice United States

We had an amazing time in Iceland! Thanks to Nordic Visitor for arranging everything and making sure we had an... read more

We had an amazing time in Iceland! Thanks to Nordic Visitor for arranging everything and making sure we had an amazing and memorable stay in Iceland.

Scott United Kingdom

We cannot recommend our tour enough. We had an amazing time and have already told friends and family about it.... read more

We cannot recommend our tour enough. We had an amazing time and have already told friends and family about it. Iceland is an amazing place and I am sure we will be back and will use Nordic Visitor again!

YOUR WINTER TRAVEL HIGHLIGHTS

With its snow and ice-draped landscapes, glowing northern lights and inviting hot springs, the Land of Fire and Ice is dazzling in wintertime. On your winter tour of Iceland, you could:

• Discover the famous Golden Circle route to see Gullfoss waterfall , Strokkur geyser and Þingvellir National Park
• Head out on a northern lights tour from Reykjavík to see the aurora borealis dancing in the night sky
• Soak up the sight of floating icebergs at the magical Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon
• Visit Iceland's largest national park to step inside naturally formed ice caves in Vatnajökull
• Embark on a guided glacier hike in the beautiful Skaftafell Nature Reserve
• Stroll along Reynisfjara and other frosted black sand beaches on the South Coast
• Bathe in natural hot springs and geothermal spas such as the Blue Lagoon
• Gaze at icy waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss , Skógafoss and Goðafoss
• Explore the Snæfellsnes peninsula to see the volcano and lava fields of Snæfellsjökull National Park

ADVICE ABOUT ICELAND IN WINTER

Prepare for your winter tour with these Iceland travel guides.

Northern Lights Guide

Learn more about this natural wonder and how to prepare for seeing it

Climate & weather conditions

How icy is Iceland? You might be surprised

Winter driving in Iceland

In a country where 'ice' is part of the name, it's good to be prepared

What to pack

Layers, layers, layers! Come prepared for all types of weather

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ICELAND WINTER TRAVEL

To learn more about what it’s like to visit Iceland in winter and the sort of tours you can do, read on. We’ve answered the most frequently asked questions about Iceland winter vacation packages here.

Alternatively, find out how to make a booking , have a look at our FAQs , or learn about our flexible  Book With Confidence travel plan.

1. WHEN IS WINTER IN ICELAND?

Iceland experiences its winter season from October to April. At this time of year, the weather is colder and the nights are longer, but Iceland becomes a winter wonderland that is beautiful to explore. You’ll also get the chance to see the northern lights between October and April.

2. HOW COLD DOES IT GET IN WINTER?

Iceland does get cold in winter, but considering its latitude, the temperatures are milder than you would think. Its temperate maritime climate is owed to the Gulf Stream, and means that temperatures generally don’t get too far below 0°C (32°F).

Over the winter period, average temperatures in Reykjavík range from -1°C (30°F) to 6°C (42°F). The coldest months are December, January and February, when there is a higher chance of snow.

It’s important to bear in mind that Iceland’s weather is changeable, so you could experience sun, snow, wind and rain in a day! Find out more about Iceland’s weather and climate on our online travel guide.

3. HOW MANY HOURS OF DAYLIGHT DOES ICELAND HAVE IN WINTER?

In Iceland the days are shorter in winter than in summer. However, since winter lasts from October to April, there is a big difference in daylight hours across this period. You could experience anything from 3-17 hours of daylight in winter!

The days are shortest in December as this is when the winter solstice takes place, so expect between 3-5 hours of daylight. After the solstice has passed, the sunrise takes place earlier and earlier each day. This means that by April you get between 13-17 daylight hours.

The best thing about Iceland’s short days is that you have more chance of catching the northern lights. The dark winter nights make it possible to see the colours of the aurora borealis dancing in the sky. During summer, though, it is too light at night to spot them.

Read more about Iceland’s daylight hours , or explore our northern lights guide for viewing tips including checking the aurora forecast and where to go.

4. HOW MUCH SNOW DOES ICELAND GET IN WINTER?

Iceland experiences snow at higher altitudes in winter, although the snow sometimes settles at lower levels too. Snowfall is more common in the colder months of December, January and February. Although given Iceland’s unpredictable weather, it could happen almost anytime!

You’re also likely to get more snow in North Iceland and East Iceland, as well as in the Westfjords. The countryside looks incredibly beautiful when dusted in snow and frost, making for a real winter wonderland .

5. WHAT ARE THE TOP THINGS TO DO IN ICELAND IN THE WINTER?

There are plenty of exciting things to do in Iceland in winter, from exploring natural sites to soaking up the local culture. This is just one of the reasons why top publications have named it one of the best places to visit in Northern Europe this year .

Here is a list of the best winter activities in Iceland:

• Visit icy waterfalls and glacier lagoons
• Hunt for the northern lights
• Embark on an ice caving adventure
• Relax in hot tubs and geothermal pools
• Snowmobile or hike over glaciers
• Discover Iceland’s Christmas traditions
• Ride an Icelandic horse in the snow
• Explore Route 1 on a road trip
• Try snowshoeing or skiing
• Celebrate New Year’s Eve with the locals

For more inspiration, discover the top things to do in Iceland in winter and 10 ways to enjoy the snow in Iceland on our experts’ blog.

6. HOW DO YOU GET AROUND ICELAND IN WINTER?

There are various ways you can travel around Iceland in winter. You could rent a car for a self-drive tour , or have someone else do the driving instead.

A road trip in Iceland in winter gives you the freedom to explore as you please. You could visit South Iceland or West Iceland in a few days, or discover more of the land by driving the Ring Road that circles the country.

If you’d prefer not to drive, you have a few other options instead. You could enjoy the exclusivity of a private tour , with a personal guide who will take you around Iceland and share their insider knowledge with you.

Alternatively, join a small group tour to discover Iceland with a guide and other like-minded travellers. Or opt for a multi-day tour to base yourself in Reykjavík or Akureyri and go on day trips when it suits you. That way you get a mix of independent travel and guided excursions, without needing to drive.

Discover more travel tips on how to explore Iceland on the Nordic Visitor blog.

7. IS IT SAFE TO DRIVE IN WINTER CONDITIONS?

To drive in Iceland between October and April, you should be aware of certain road rules. Here are some tips to help you prepare for winter driving in Iceland .

You must keep your headlights on, even in daylight. Drive slowly in case of ice and open your car doors with care when it’s windy. You should also bear in mind that some mountain passes and roads may close due to adverse weather conditions.

We recommend that you check the latest weather updates before setting off each day. The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration and SafeTravel websites are two trusted resources. The latter also has an app that locates your vehicle should you need any assistance on the road.

With the appropriate 4x4 rental car and awareness of weather conditions, winter driving in Iceland can be a great way to tour the country.

Plus, when you book a self-drive tour with Nordic Visitor, you get the advice and support of a personal travel consultant to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will rearrange your itinerary should anything unexpected arise.

8. ARE WINTER TYRES COMPULSORY?

Winter tyres are not compulsory but are highly recommended if you’re driving between the months of November and April. They provide extra traction on icy roads and so are ideal for driving outside of urban areas like Reykjavík.

It is much safer to drive a 4x4 vehicle in winter in Iceland. That’s why our winter self-drive packages include 4x4 car rentals which come with winter tyres.

9. HOW MANY DAYS SHOULD I SPEND IN ICELAND IN WINTER?

You can spend as much time as you like in Iceland in winter! There is so much to see and do that it really depends on how many days or weeks you have to spare.

For a short break in Iceland, your best bet is to explore Reykjavík and the surroundings. Within 4 days you could visit the capital’s many fantastic museums, shops, galleries and restaurants. There are thermal pools to swim in and festive markets at Christmastime.

You could also see top sights like Gullfoss waterfall, Þingvellir National Park, and the Geysir geothermal area, which includes the hot spring Strokkur. These are all part of the Golden Circle route in the south. You can experience the Golden Circle on a day trip from the capital, or over the course of a few days.

Or extend your route and see more of South Iceland. In 7 days you’d get to visit black sand beaches, glaciers, and other breathtaking natural attractions that the South Coast is known for. Don’t miss the chance to bathe in the mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon, an inviting geothermal pool.

Another great option is to visit West Iceland. Enjoy a northern lights adventure in the remote Westfjords, or head to the Snæfellsnes peninsula.

Called “Iceland in miniature”, the Snæfellsnes peninsula is just 90 kilometres (56 miles) long and has a bit of everything. Discover volcanoes, lava fields, waterfalls, hot springs and fishing villages here.

If you have between 10 days and 2 weeks to spare, then you’ll get to see the many beautiful corners of Iceland. As well as the southern and western regions, you can explore East Iceland and North Iceland too by travelling the country’s Ring Road.

Venture east to admire fjords and gaze upon the mighty Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, where icebergs float on the blue waters. Continue north to Akureyri and the Lake Mývatn area to marvel at the Krafla volcano, mud pools and craters. You can warm up with a dip in the Mývatn Nature Baths.

Essentially, the more days you have to spend in Iceland in winter then the more you will get to experience. You’ll also increase your chances of spotting the northern lights!

10. CAN I CHOOSE THE ARRIVAL DATE?

Yes, you can select and book Nordic Visitor arrival dates online. After picking the right tour package for you, choose your dates online or speak to one of our Iceland travel consultants .

Please note that if you are joining a small group tour, these packages have fixed start dates because this allows us to organise the most cost-effective services for you. However, you can always add extra nights before or after the group tour dates.

11. HOW MUCH CAN I CUSTOMISE MY TOUR?

Nordic Visitor packages are flexible, so you can always customise your Iceland tour to suit you. If you’d like to spend more time in a particular destination, you can request this when booking your tour online. Your dedicated travel consultant will get in touch to confirm the extra days with you.

Simply choose the package you like and then ask us about tailoring your tour. You will have your own personal travel consultant who can offer destination suggestions and modify your package according to your needs and preferences.

Bear in mind that if you want to book a small group tour, the duration and route will be fixed as you are travelling with other visitors. But we can of course customise your tour by adding extra nights to the beginning or end of your trip.

12. WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY FLIGHT TICKETS?

We recommend that you book your flights after your Nordic Visitor tour has been confirmed. You can always check flights for dates and prices, but only purchase them once your travel consultant has secured your package bookings. This is no more than 2 working days after you receive your email confirmation of payment.

Once your Nordic Visitor consultant has confirmed your tour, you will have all of the details you need to buy suitable flights. We can book your airport transfer in Iceland once you let us know the flight details.

13. WHAT CLOTHES SHOULD I WEAR IN ICELAND IN WINTER?

Icelanders have a saying: “There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing!”

In winter you should prepare for cold temperatures, wind, rain and snow. That way you can enjoy the natural beauty of the country regardless of the weather.

If you’re visiting Iceland in winter, we recommend wearing:

• Warm layers
• An insulated jacket
• Protective outerwear
• Good sturdy boots
• A hat, scarf and gloves

Read more about what to wear in Iceland on our blog.

14. WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR ICELAND IN WINTER?

Iceland is known for its ever-changing weather, so we advise that you be as prepared as possible. In winter you should bring warm layers with you to be comfortable with the cooler temperatures.

Here is a list of packing essentials for your Iceland trip in winter:

• An insulated and waterproof jacket
• Walking boots
• Fleece jumpers
• Lightweight wool underlayers
• Waterproof or winter trousers
• Thermal underwear and socks
• Swimwear and sandals

The reason we recommend packing swimwear is so you can visit Iceland’s hot springs and geothermal pools . The locals love their hot spring bathing and it’s a great way to relax after exploring the great outdoors!

For more in-depth tips on what to bring, check out our packing guide for Iceland .

If you’re keen to put your holiday plans into motion or need more advice on visiting Iceland in winter, get in touch. Our local travel experts will be happy to help.

Our Icelandic phone number is +354 578 20 80

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

Blog articles

Best times and places to see the northern lights in iceland, 10 ways to enjoy the snow in iceland, a little something about the northern lights, top 10 things to do in iceland in winter.

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Iceland Winter Tours | The Best Of The Best 2024

There is a ridiculous range of activities and tours you can experience in Iceland in winter. Let me narrow it down to the very best you can find.

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Necessary Spacing

Here are all of the best tours in one place!

• The Golden Circle – Book Here
• Silfra Snorkelling – Book Here
• The Northern Lights – Book Here
• Snowmobiling – Book Here
• Whale Watching – Book Here
• Glacier Hiking – Book Here
• The Blue Lagoon – Book Here
• Diamond Beach – Book Here
• Ice Caving – Book Here
• Helicopter Ride – Book Here
• Food In Reyjkavik – Book Here

In the article below we go into much more detail about each of these incredible tours!

The Best Iceland Winter Tours

If you haven’t really looked into all the Iceland winter tours you can get up to then I assure you, this list will blow your mind. Visitors to Iceland are blessed with a mindboggling array of incredible activities all over the country, especially in the winter months.

If you have already got a pretty good idea of what you want to get up to then don’t click away too soon! I have taken all of the tours that Iceland has to offer in the winter and narrowed them down to the very best, the #1, the creme of the crop!

So, have a read, check out my recommendations and find out how to really maximise your Iceland vacation. Don’t forget to book your airport shuttle first so that you can get on with the important job of having fun!

Golden Circle Tours

I had to start with the most popular activity in the whole of Iceland. The Golden Circle is literally the path most trodden by any and all tourists that visit Iceland, and for good reason. The route consists of three of the most spectacular sights in the south: Thingvellir national park, Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall.

What makes this route so incredibly popular is its outstanding national beauty that really encompasses all that is incredible about Iceland and it’s relatively close proximity to Reykjavik. This means that tour costs stay reasonable as transport costs are kept down.

In my opinion, this is the perfect 1st-day activity for anyone looking for a winter tour from Reykjavik and is visiting Iceland in winter. AND if you want to make your first day as memorable as it can possibly be then I highly recommend coupling your Golden Circle tour with a visit to the Secret Lagoon. It isn’t significantly more money and you get to end the day in one of the best geothermal baths in the whole of Iceland.

For the best Golden Circle tour in Iceland click here and for the Golden Circle tour starting with a visit to the Secret Lagoon click here .

Silfra Fissure Snorkelling & Diving Tour

This is one incredible tour that is often overlooked by many people visiting Thingvellir National Park. You may end up going to Thingvellir, seeing the Silfra fissure (it looks like a clear narrow stream from above) and leaving without ever knowing what actually lurks beneath those crystal blue waters.

I’ll tell you – 100m of perfectly clear underwater visibility in between two tectonic plates that are actively drifting apart. This is the only place in the world that you can dive or snorkel between two continents.

Not only that, the fissure is said to contain the clearest natural water and visibility anywhere in the world.

I have recommended a tour that uses dry suits which means that you really don’t have to worry about the very low water temperature. Also, if you are already planning a Golden Circle tour and you are thinking about snorkelling the Silfra fissure then I recommend combining the two to save money.

If you are thinking about diving the Silfra fissure then there are certain diving qualifications you will need to have. Have a look here for more information about whether you qualify.

For the best snorkelling experience at the Silfra fissure click here and for a Golden Circle and Silfra fissure combo, click here .

The Northern Lights

Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland is one of the things that is just a given. You could potentially pass on snowmobiling on a glacier or grabbing a helicopter tour into the mountains if you were on an incredibly strict budget, but you can’t pass on an opportunity to see the Aurora Borealis.

This is one of the easiest and best places to see it in the whole world and is one of the best tours you can do in Iceland in the winter.

There is a good argument that you could see the Northern Lights without having to pay the money for a tour, however, the tour companies know exactly where to go to get the minimum amount of light pollution and the best chance of seeing them.

Furthermore, if you are a photographer and you are looking to get some stunning images of the Northern Lights then the tour guides will take you to the best spots for great composition, including some incredible backdrops and landscapes.

For the best Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik click here .

Snowmobiling On A Glacier

This is one of the most fun things we did on our Iceland holiday and it is well worth it, especially for couples and small groups. It’s also a fantastic tour to get on in the winter as nearly all of the routes and glaciers are open, so your choices are a lot higher.

Zooming along over a massive never-ending sheet of ice, high up in the mountains is an experience you will never forget, trust me. It is one of the best ways to experience the true remoteness of some of Iceland’s terrain and have a serious amount of fun at the same time!

The best news of all is that one of the best glaciers to snowmobile on is very accessible from Reykjavik, so you don’t even need to travel that far to get there.

They actually pick up from Gullfoss waterfall as well, so if you are just finishing a tour of the Golden Circle then you save quite a lot of money going snowmobiling from Gulfoss, rather than being picked up in Reykjavik.

I have written a complete guide to snowmobiling in Iceland so if you want more information on age requirements, difficulty levels and all of your best options then check it out.

For the very best snowmobile tour in Iceland click here and for the same snowmobile experience coupled with an ice cave AND the secret lagoon click here .

Whale Watching Tour

The best place to go whale watching in Iceland has to be in Husavik in the north, a small yet incredibly beautiful fishing town. However, this is where the choice becomes a little difficult.

Tours from Husavik do not run all the way through the winter, as the roads to the North get cut off when the weather gets too bad.

If this is the case then your only option would be Reykjavik in the south. However, there are a lot fewer species of whale to see in south Iceland so you have to accept that it will not be as fruitful as in the north. Check out our entire guide to whale watching in Reykjavik here or watch our video below about exactly what you can expect!

Saying that, the weather can get very choppy in the north in the winter so you could end up travelling all the way there to have your whale-watching tour cancelled.

Firstly you have to decide whether whale watching is up there in your must-do’s for Iceland.

If it is then I recommend making the journey to Husavik to maximise your chances of seeing the best whale-watching sights that Iceland has to offer. If you are 50-50 then I would not recommend taking a whale watching tour in the winter.

For the best whale watching in Husavik click here . Remember to check road conditions if you are driving in the winter as roads can become blocked.

Glacier Hiking & Climbing Tour

There are a number of different winter glacier tours in Iceland that do not involve the actual climbing up the ice. However, I really feel that if you are fit and adventurous enough to be considering a glacier hiking tour then I know you’ll love the idea of doing some ice climbing.

It’ll allow you to experience extreme Iceland and not just be sitting in a heated coach looking through the window.

In this tour, you’ll grab a shuttle up to the glacier after being fitted with all of your specialist ice climbing gear. Then you’ll have a quick lesson on the best techniques for climbing the ice and then you’ll be off.

Not many people will be able to say they have climbed up walls of ice and if you are already the adventurous type or an avid climber then this is a great option to make your trip to Iceland a little more physical.

For the best glacier hike and climb in Iceland click here .

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is by far the most famous of all of the geothermal hot springs and lagoons in Iceland. Its huge blue pools and incredible facilities make it an absolute dream of a place to visit.

There is a bar, facial counter, sauna, tables and steam rooms all of which you can swim to so don’t worry about going in the winter as the only time you’ll be cold is when you get out for good!

You will get the option to get a bathrobe with your entry for an additional fee. I recommend doing so as it is much nicer to walk around in something warm, especially in the winter months.

If you don’t have your own vehicle then grab a bus ticket here and sort out entry tickets here . 

You can also pair the Blue Lagoon up with a Golden Circle tour just like the Secret Lagoon. If you are going to be going to the Blue Lagoon and the Golden Circle then why not save some money and pair them up?

Click here to book a combined ticket for the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle and Kerid Crater!

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach

Diamond Beach is roughly 5 hours by car from Reykjavik so if you are going for a short trip then you might not think it is worth it.

However, there is a reason why so many people make the long journey through the south-east. Diamond Beach is a one of kind experience that really takes your breath away.

Huge chunks of ice fall off of the glacier in the huge Jokulsarlon lagoon and slowly break up into smaller pieces. These pieces then make their way out to sea and wash up on the jet black sand of Diamond Beach.

The thousands of sparkling ice diamonds in contrast to the black of the sand is truly mesmerising.

I recommend going to Diamond Beach by hire car as it is much cheaper. However, if you do not have access to this then there is a fantastic day tour to the area. See Our entire guide to renting a 4×4 in Iceland here.

The southeast coast has some of the most famous and most beautiful coastal landscapes and waterfalls in the whole of Iceland so if you’re thinking about exploring more of the southeast then definitely check out the multi-day tour that encompasses the whole lot.

For the best 1-day Diamond Beach excursion click here . For a complete 2 day tour of the southeast, including Diamond Beach, click here .

Ice Cave Tour

Every year, when the temperature rises slightly in the summer, the glaciers melt a little. This creates brand new magical caverns and caves underneath the majestic sheets of ice.

This means when it comes to the winter, experts go out and try to find these new and incredible caves for people to walk in.

I highly recommend jumping on a natural ice cave tour and not one that is permanent. The natural caves are just that little more magical I think.

One of the best multi-tour experiences you can do is to snowmobile on a glacier, visit a remote ice cave and then finish in the Secret Lagoon. I actually think it’s the best 1-day tour I have ever seen in the whole of Iceland.

For the best ice cave tour in Iceland click here . For the incredible snowmobile, ice cave and Secret Lagoon tour click here .

Helicopter Tour

Don’t scroll past because you think that it will be entirely unaffordable. Compared to the other Iceland tours in this list, a budget helicopter tour is actually on the same sort of price point.

There are obviously some very long whole day helicopter tours that will run into the thousands of dollars but there is one that flies from Reykjavik and lands in the mountains to give you an incredible panoramic view of the south coast.

I have written an entire guide to helicopter tours in Iceland if you want to check it out. However, if you are wanting to have a look at the best and cheapest helicopter tour you can get your mitts on then have a look here .

Reykjavik Food & Beer Tours

If you’re like me then maybe you want to try real authentic food and beer from every country you visit.

It can be difficult to do this on your own as you don’t know the best places in town or there’s a language barrier that prevents you from asking that you want something a bit more local. That’s where these 2 little gems come in!

If you are already planning to visit Reykjavik in winter then why not spend 4 hours walking the streets and visiting restaurants and shops to try 13 different local dishes from the best places in town. If you are a culinary enthusiast then this is the tour for you.

Or if you’re more into spirits then jump in and taste the unique spirits of Iceland.

For the best Reykjavik food tour click here and for the best Reykjavik spirits tour click here .

Recommended Packing List

It gets pretty cold in Iceland so we have compiled a list of products that you’re going to need to take if you want to make the most out of your trip! Take a look and remember, amazon has deals on all the time so make sure to go through the links to see the current price.

If you are thinking of going into colder climates then you have to make sure you have a suitable jacket to go along for the ride. This ski jacket is waterproof and windproof which helps keep out the cold and a fleece lining which helps to keep in the warmth. The jacket is also extremely affordable compared to other brands meaning your comfort is no longer going to cost you an arm and a leg!

People often buy really good gloves, hats, boots, and jackets when they are going into colder climates but neglect the need for a good pair of waterproof/windproof trousers to go along with it. These brilliant fleece-lined trousers will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable for those long days in the freezing cold.

You can spend an insane amount of money on hiking boots if you want (trust me, I have) but, unless you're planning on travelling to the Arctic Circle, you simply don't have to break the bank. These amazingly diverse and adaptable boots by Columbia will handle everything you throw at them, whilst keeping your feet dry, warm, and pain-free!

If you really feel the cold but already have a decent jacket and insulated trousers , then you have to check out these fleece-lined thermal long johns and top base layer. These will fit under your outer clothes and give a massive increase to your warmth whilst paired with other quality winter wear. A must-have for someone who struggles with the cold.

If you need a pair of no-nonsense, warm, waterproof, and windproof gloves that will work with your touch devices then we highly recommend checking out these gloves. I recommend getting slightly larger than you think as the sizing is on the small size.

If you're going to be wearing boots, especially in colder climates, then you need to grab yourself a decent set of cold-weather socks. These thermal socks from HOT FEET don't break the bank and will keep your feet warm in some of the coldest weather. You also get 8 pairs!

A gorgeous 100% Icelandic wool hand-knitted hat to keep your head warm in the coldest situations. It would make a perfect gift/souvenir for anyone who is travelling to Iceland or has travelled to Iceland and forgotten to pick one up when they were there!

Cotton is the way to go to keep you warm on cold nights staring up at the beautiful starry sky, surrounded by ice and snow. This is from Amazon Basics so you're not paying a premium for a famous brand but you're still getting that thick cotton quality.

Jade prefers wearing ear muffs because it gives her more options to style her hair whilst also keeping her little ears warm. If that sounds like something you might struggle with then check out these fantastic ear warmers that come in a variety of colours!

Saving Money On Iceland Winter Tours

We all know that Iceland tours can cost a pretty penny, therefore saving money whilst planning them is a must. Luckily there are a few things you can do to keep the cost down straight away. Try planning out exactly what winter tours you want to arrange in Iceland before you start booking.

Combining Tours

Combining tours in Iceland is a great start to saving money. You will be amazed at the number of strange combinations of tours you can get in Iceland.

This will end up saving you considerable money as a large percentage of the tour cost is transport. If you can visit multiple places and do multiple activities in the same rough area then the transport fees will be kept at a minimum.

Hire Vehicle

Consider renting a hire vehicle as many of the tours have multiple pickup zones. For example, the snowmobile tours pick up from either Reykjavik or Gullfoss. It is around an additional $50 each to be picked up from Reykjavik. If there is more than one of you travelling then it is much cheaper to hire a vehicle and make your way to a cheaper pickup point. And you get the added benefit of being able to arrange an epic road trip if you want!

You can also check prices and availability using the search box below.

Packed Lunch

Many of these tours stop for lunch breaks or snacks throughout the tours. They will always stop outside a restaurant or cafe for convenience. However, Iceland is not the cheapest place in the world for eating out so save yourself some money by preparing a packed lunch before your outing.

Anywhere else in the world I might not recommend this due to the hassle but you will be amazed at the money you will save.

Tipping is not expected at all in Iceland so do not feel like you have to shell out at the end of the tour to your friendly guide. It isn’t considered rude to tip in Iceland so if you really want to then feel free but you could save yourself some money with no guilt.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a good selection of iceland winter tours.

Yes, the only activities that are not as good in winter are puffin watching (considering they are not there in the winter) and whale watching, due to the weather and whale migrations.

What Are The Best Iceland Winter Tours?

In my opinion, combining a Golden Circle tour with the snowmobiling, ice cave and Secret Lagoon tour is probably the best combination of tours you can do in Iceland.

Are Iceland Winter Tours Quieter Than In The Summer?

The winter in Iceland is much quieter than the summer however this can mean that tour operators just run fewer tours and they are as crowded. What is definitely true is that the locations will be considerably less busy in the winter than in summer.

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Iceland In Winter – Guided Tour for 6 Days

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Home / Multi-Day Tours / Reykjavík / Iceland In Winter – Guided Tour for 6 Days

Iceland in winter is simply a wonderful time but we understand that not everybody is interested in a self-drive tour in snowy and icy conditions. Therefore we created this special Iceland winter tour only with guided tours included. Enjoy Iceland in its winter colours and visit the highlights of Iceland such as geyser, waterfalls, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and glacier. See the magic northern lights in the winter sky and enjoy Reykjavik the world’s northernmost capital.

If you are interested in receiving more information about this tour, please click on the “Request a quote” widget on the left side of the page. A quick form will open up where you will provide us with more information about your travel expectations. You will then be connected with your specialized travel agent who will assist you throughout the planning a provide a fully detailed quote.

Please note that this itinerary can be adjusted and customized to meet your travel needs and preferences. The package can also be offered as a privately guided tour if a self-drive option is not what you had in mind for your Iceland experience.

Please note that this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Guided Group Tours

6 Days / 5 Nights

Reykjavík & South Iceland

8 Years Old

• 5 nights accommodation (Budget or Comfort) with breakfast
• Transfer from Keflavik International Airport to your accommodation in Reykjavík
• Optional private information meeting with our travel consultant in Reykjavik before your tour starts
• Guided Northern Lights Tour by minibus
• Guided Golden Circle Tour by bus with entrance to the Fontana Spa
• Guided 2 days tour to the South of Iceland with 1 hour glacier hike included
• Guided lava cave tour
• Transfer from Reykjavik to Keflavík Airport with pick-up at your accommodation
• 24-hour emergency service
• Taxes & service fee

Not Included

• Flights to/from Iceland
• Meals & drinks at restaurants apart from what’s stated in the itinerary
• Personal travel insurance

Welcome to Iceland in winter! After landing at Keflavík International airport, you will be transferred to your hotel or guesthouse in Reykjavik. In the afternoon we recommend exploring the city center of Reykjavik. You should visit Harpa Music Hall, the Hallgrímskirkja Church, the Laugavegur shopping street, and the small lake Tjörnin often frequented by many water birds. In the evening you will join a Northern Lights tour by minibus. You will leave the city with its disturbing lights and you will search for the magic lights also called Aurora in the countryside. You stay for the night in a comfortable accommodation in the city center.

Duration of Northern Lights tour

Highlights:, harpa - music hall, hallgrímskirkja church, laugavegur shopping street, northern lights.

Today you go on a guided bus tour around the Golden Circle to see three of Iceland´s most stunning sights – Þingvellir National Park, Geyser geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall. After these natural wonders, you will visit  Fontana´s natural steam baths . Relax in various hot tubs and steam baths naturally heated by Icelandic hot springs. Before returning back to Reykjavik, you can taste some typical Icelandic rye bread which is slow-baked in the natural hot springs. In the evening you can go on another (optional) Northern Lights tour or you visit one of the gourmet restaurants in Reykjavik. Reykjavik is also famous for its nightlife and the bars are open during weekends until 04:00 a.m.

Þingvellir National Park

Gullfoss waterfall, laugarvatn fontana spa.

For the next two days, you will be joining on an exciting 2-day tour to the magnificent south coast of Iceland. The south is often said to have it all! You will start your journey by being picked up by your guide for the next two days, and then you will head out to the countryside. Your first sight will be at the mesmerizing Seljalandsfoss, where if the conditions are good and you have the right attire, you have an option to walk behind the waterfall to get a 360°view of it. Next up is another well-known waterfall, the great Skógafoss waterfall. On a good day, you might be able to see the peak of Eyjafjallajökull volcano, that erupted famously in 2010.

Continuing will be the Reynisfjara black sand beach and the picturesque Reynisdrangar rock pinnacles rising from the sea. Afterwards, you will continue your travels to Skaftafell, where you will stay the night in the area. On your way, you will travel through the great lava field and witness the spectacular glacier Vatnajökull. The countryside is perfect for catching the dancing lights in the sky.

Day starts in

Day ends in

Skaftafell area

Seljalandsfoss

Reynisfjara - black sand beach, eldhraun lava field.

After breakfast, you will be starting your day by exploring the magical world of Vatnajökull. The first sight of the day will be the out of this world glacier lagoon, Jökulsárlón. This lagoon is full of great, dazzling icebergs in various fascinating shapes and forms, constantly breaking from Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. These icebergs float in the lagoon and slowly end up in the Atlantic ocean. Many of these natural icebergs cast ashore to the nearby beach, where they shimmer like diamonds on the beautiful black sand beach, given the name, the Diamond beach.

Now you will be venturing up and in the magnificent glacier with a qualified glacier guide. Entering an ice cave is surely an out of this world experience. Ice caves are formed during the summertime when the glacier is slowly melting the flowing water runs through cracks and crevasses, slowly enlarging over time. Every autumn expert guides search for new ice caves for the new season, allowing you to enter the newest ice cave in the glacier. Glaciers are constantly on the move and the same applies to the caves, but slowly.

Your guide will choose the best suitable ice cave, depending on the time of travel, and surely the weather.

The amazing colour of the ice inside the cave makes you feel like you are in a wonderland. The variant shades of blue and the structure of the ice can truly mesmerize you! You will ride up the glacier in a large super-jeep, before parking as close as possible to the mouth of the cave. Please remember to bring good hiking shoes with you as you will now hike to the opening of the cave, where you will have plenty of time to enjoy the cave and capture the moment on film.

After this dreamlike experience of the cave, you sadly have to say goodbye to the glaciers and head back to the city. Depending on the weather conditions, you might make some stops along the way to stretch your legs during the long drive. If promising conditions show Northern Lights activity, be sure to keep an eye out for the magical dancing lights in the sky.

Please keep in mind that the program of this two-day tours can slightly change, based on the weather and different months of winter.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Today you go on a guided tour inside a lava cave. You will see natural stalactites, different lava rock formations and unexpected colours. The cave is only a short drive away from Reykjavik and is located near a volcanic crater. It is about 900 meters long and was first mapped in 1992. Most of the floor in the cave is even and the cave becomes wide and high. However, in a few places you need to crawl and therefore you should wear good walking or hiking shoes. The afternoon you can spend in the city of Reykjavik and we recommend to visit the old harbour area where many interesting museums are located such as the  Northern Lights Center , the  Saga Museum  or the Marine Museum.

Tour duration

The reykjavík maritime museum, reykjavík city, reykjavík old harbour.

Your winter adventure is about to come to its end. You will be transferred to Keflavik International Airport. If your flight is in the afternoon, you still have time to stop at Blue Lagoon and enjoy a soak in the milky blue earth sea, a perfect end to your stay and a nice way to relax and unwind before your flight home.

Budget accommodations include shared facilities in guest houses, country hotels, farmhouses, etc. In some cases, the rooms might be equipped with a TV and a washbasin. The in-room amenities are limited and basic but they all adhere to a high standard of cleanliness. Breakfast is included.

Comfort accommodations offer access to private facilities (shower and toilet). This type of lodges belongs to the 3-star hotel category. Most of these properties have an in-house restaurant. This section offers an upgrade in comfort and service compared to the budget category. Breakfast is included.

Harpa is the famous concert hall and conference center located in Reykjavik. The building features a distinctive and original colored glass facade inspired by the basalt landscape of Iceland.  Its unique architecture makes it one of Reykjavik most loved landmarks.

Hallgrímskirkja Church is most certainly Reykjavík´s best-known landmark. The white concrete Church whose image is printed in many postcards, dominates the city. As a matter of fact its tower can be seen from almost every corner of Reykjavík. Its distinctive and futuristic exterior made the Church one of the most visited spots in Reykjavík.

Laugavegur is the main shopping street in Reykjavik and it is located in the heart of the city. Its name means literally „wash road“ as this was once the route to the hot springs where many Icelanders took their clothes to launder. Today it is a vibrant and innovative street filled with designer ateliers, tourist gift shops, bars, and restaurants.

The Aurora is a natural phenomenon caused by electrically charged particles, mainly electrons and protons ejected from the sun colliding with atoms of oxygen and nitrogen causing them to emit light that is visible to us. These hypnotic lights are known as Aurora Borealis, Polar Lights or Northern Lights in the arctic north and Aurora Australis (southern lights) around the south pole. The color of the Aurora has to do with the type of gas that these particles collide with, oxygen produces green light at low altitudes and red at high altitudes. Nitrogen produces purple Aurora. The green color is the most common and red can only be seen at the strongest of geomagnetic storms. The full understanding of the physical processes that cause the aurora are still a mystery but we know the fundamental causes of the Aurora is the interaction of solar wind with the Earth‘s magnetosphere.

There are three basic requirements for seeing the northern lights. Solar activity, darkness and clear skies. This means that you cannot see the northern lights during summer, they are still happening, there's even a phenomenon called daylight aurora, but our eyes cannot detect them as sunlight drowns out the Aurora. So the darker the better. Going out of the city is not a requirement, the Aurora can often be spotted within city limits in Iceland, however to best enjoy them going away from city lights enhances the experience. Also people should not use mobile phones if they are looking for the northern lights, as the light from the screen will make it harder for your eyes to adjust to the darkness.  It‘s always a good idea to take warm clothes on your Aurora excursions as Iceland can get very cold in the winter, that means wool undergarments, warm mid layer and a windproof shell.

Þingvellir National Park is the most important historic and geological sites in Iceland. The area is part of a fissure zone running through Iceland, being situated on the tectonic plate boundaries of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Major events in the history of Iceland have taken place at Þingvellir and today the entire area is a protected national treasure.

Gullfoss, also called the Golden Waterfall, is one of the most iconic gems of the likewise named Golden Circle. The waterfall is located in the upper part of the River Hvíta. Gullfoss is actually two separate waterfalls,  the upper one has a drop of 11 meters and the lower one 21 meters.

Geysir is the famous hot spring area located in the Haukadalur valley. The main attraction is known as Strokkur, which erupts energetically at regular intervals of 10 minutes or so its boiling waterjets can reach as high as 30 meters.

Laugarvatn Fontana is a Spa & Wellness center built on natural hot springs. It is located at the Golden Circle area, you can enjoy steam baths or the geothermal pools while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake Laugarvatn.

Seljalandsfoss is one of the most famous and visited waterfalls in Iceland. It located along the South Coast of the Country right by the road n. 1. The waterfall is part of the Seljalands river that originated from the famous volcano glacier Eyjafjallajökull. The waterfall is approximately 60-meter high and it is famous for its path that leads visitor behind its powerful water flow.

Skógafoss is a waterfall located on the Skógá river on the South Coast of Iceland. This picture-perfect waterfall descends 60 meters from the cliffs. Before pouring down the cliffs becoming the famous waterfall, the river flows through the Skógárgil gorge.

Reynisfjara is a famous black sand beach in the South of Iceland, just next to the village of Vik. Black sand, lava formations, and basalt columns make it a popular stop for all visitors.

Reynisdrangar cliffs are towering basalt-type rock formations situated near the shore of Reynisfjara black sand beach, on the South Coast of Iceland. The folk legend wants them to be the rocky representation of two trolls turned into stone after being caught by the sunlight after dawn.

Eldhraun is a lava field in the southern highlands of Iceland. It was created by a great volcano eruption known as Skaftareldar.

Jökulsárlón is a large glacial lake located in the Southeast of Iceland on the edge of the Vatnajökull National Park. The Lagoon developed into a lake after the glacier started receding from the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. The lake can be seen from Route 1 between Höfn and Skaftafell. The lagoon offers outstanding views of the ice cap and it is one of the most spectacular and loved, natural destinations in all Iceland.

The Reykjavík Maritime Museum is located by the old harbour in Reykjavík, founded in 2004 and open daily from 10:00 – 17:00. One of their main exhibitions is the former coast guard vessel Óðinn, and is accessible for guided tours three time per day; 13:00, 14:00 and 15:00.

Reykjavík is the capital and biggest city of Iceland with a population of approximately 124,000. It is the northernmost capital in the world. Despite its small size, you can find many attractions and museums, making Reykjavik a popular destination.

Reykjavík Old Harbour is fast becoming the new lively center of the city. There you will find museums such as Maritime Museum, the Northern Lights center and the Whales of Iceland exhibition. The harbour, which is quickly transforming into a modern city space, is also home to restaurants and cafes. A local favourite is ice cream shop Valdís, which makes fresh ice cream every morning and always offers new flavours.

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Iceland in Winter: 25 Things To Know Before You Go

Let’s travel to Iceland in winter!

What a brilliant idea!

Except… If Iceland is anything, it’s extreme, and winter is when Iceland is when it’s at its MOST extreme. If you’re not prepared for it then you might not be able to enjoy your trip as much as you could.

And who goes to Iceland and says they didn’t like it?!

Just mention Iceland and someone will tell you it’s their dream destination. And yes, it’s bucket-list worthy, but Iceland in winter is no lighthearted affair!

I’ve been to Iceland in winter twice, and the conditions on both my trips were very different.

That’s the thing about winter travel in Iceland, it’s well known as one of the most beautiful places on earth, but it’s also one of the most inherently changeable. It’s a relatively small island in the North Atlantic Ocean after all!

Iceland deserves its fame and all the accolades it receives, and you might be thinking, “not another travel blogger writing about Iceland” but if I didn’t genuinely wish I had known all of this before I visited Iceland during winter, I wouldn’t be wasting my time writing it!

Knowing these tips for winter in Iceland will make your trip all the better, and you’ll get to avoid the stress that we experienced!

Below you’ll find some of the best things to do in Iceland in winter, but also how to plan your winter Iceland trip in a way that will make it the best it can be!

Driving in Iceland in winter is no cake walk

I’m making this number one because, in my opinion, it’s the most important consideration in deciding to travel to Iceland during the winter months.

Let’s be clear. Driving in Iceland in winter is downright scary, especially if you’re not used to the conditions, but honestly, even if you are. Extreme, remember?

That means snow and ice on the road, direct drops into the frozen water on either side, insanely strong winds buffeting your car around along with a whole lot of loose snow so you can’t even SEE the road… need I go on?

Only you will know what sort of conditions you’re happy driving in.

We hired a small hatchback assuming the roads would be clear because my first trip to Iceland in October it was. Except for this time, it was a few weeks further into winter and the roads were actual ice.

This and the strong winds meant that journeys took us much longer than we expected, we saw less than we wanted, and we were stressed out by it all.

If you’re not happy driving in these conditions then don’t, there are many Iceland winter tours that will allow you to experience Iceland without putting yourself at risk.

That’s how it can really influence your trip. Because if it’s your dream to drive the Ring Road then winter may not be the right time to go unless you’re confident in driving in this kind of weather, or you choose the very beginning or very end of winter (Sept/Oct and March/April).

Our road trip in Iceland in November was amazing and we don’t regret it but do wish we had booked a 4×4 and allowed more time to reach different locations; you don’t drive fast on ice!

Make sure you check the road conditions before you set out each day, so you know what to expect!

Daylight hours are slim

One of the pros and cons of Iceland in winter is the light.

During the winter months in Iceland daylight is somewhat of a rarity. For example, it’s only light in November from 10 am – 4 pm and in December it drops to as little as 5 daylight hours. On the one hand, this means more time to potentially see the Northern Lights, YAY!

On the other, it means you can’t fit as much into your day as you could if you visited Iceland in summer.

You’ll need to plan carefully because the lack of daylight in combination with the longer travel times due to road conditions means you won’t be able to see as much each day.

However, you can also take advantage of the low light if you’re into photography. There are no worries about glare like in summer, the sunrise and sunset times can provide some magical moments for your memories and your photos. 

Visit somewhere such as the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon at sunrise and you’ll understand how light can be a pro!

An Iceland itinerary is crucial

There’s so much to do in such a relatively small country that planning an Iceland itinerary is really important, otherwise you’ll be wasting crucial time when you’re on there.

In winter some attractions are closed, on roads that are closed, or just plain harder to get to in general.  Your gut reaction will be to try and do everything, mine certainly was, but be realistic.

Allow yourself time to reach each place safely. Make sure you are able to get the photo you want rather than the one you have to rush.

We learnt to make the most of a few places rather than rush around many, and it really paid off in the short time we had there.

We often book flights before we plan what we want to see, but if you’re travelling in winter for one week or less you’ll soon see that an Iceland winter itinerary that includes the whole Ring Road, the Golden Circle, and Snæfellsnes Peninsula is unrealistic.

Plan to see just one or two of these, and maybe just to Jökulsárlón on the Ring Road!

If you’re lucky, you’ll see the Northern Lights

Although Iceland is well-known as a Northern Lights destination, there is absolutely no guarantee you’ll see them.

The longer you’re in Iceland the better your chances, and many people only visit for a few nights and expect to see them.

Unfortunately, I’ve heard of people visiting Iceland in winter multiple times and still never seeing them!

The first time I went to Iceland I saw a very faint cloud that showed up as the Aurora in my friends camera, but to the naked eye didn’t look like much. This time around we were lucky to be treated to an amazing display of Aurora in Snæfellsnes!

Treat the Northern Lights as a bonus to your Iceland trip, rather than a requirement.

Of course, do your best to put yourself in a situation to see them. Although they can be viewed in Reykjavik if they’re strong, it’s better to journey outside the city where there’s less light pollution.

This might mean joining a Northern Lights Tour if you don’t have a vehicle or looking up some likely locations in advance.

Everything has an app or website now and the same can almost be said for the Northern lights!

There are several sites that can be used to get warnings about where and when the lights may appear that night. When I was there they were accurate one night but I never saw them the other times it said they were about.

We used the Iceland Metrological Office Aurora Forecast .

Iceland in winter is a photographer’s dream, but be prepared

If you’ve been dreaming of Iceland then you’ve likely looked at a LOT of photos of dramatic landscapes.

While many of them will show Iceland in summer and you’ll need to search for or reimagine them as covered in snow, it’s certainly true that Iceland is an amazing place to take photos. And you’re probably imagining yourself in some of the same scenarios you’ve seen others in and seen photos you want to take yourself.

But like many things about travelling Iceland in winter, you should undergo a little preparation to avoid disappointment!

There’s nothing wrong with taking pictures on your phone if you have one with a fairly up to date camera, and it will yield you some great results because ultimately Iceland is stunning and amazingly picturesque.

If you plan on taking a camera that’s a little more complex, like a DSLR for example, then it is well worth spending a bit of time in advance preparing.

Shooting in the snow creates a whole new set of problems and takes time to get right.

The key thing is that it doesn’t necessarily matter what you shoot with, but you need to know how to use it.

A tripod is a godsend and we honestly don’t know how we would have managed without one, especially as we were experimenting with some long exposure shots and it’s crucial if you want to try your hand at capturing the Northern Lights.  If you are lucky enough to see them they can literally be in the sky for minutes. In that time you need to know how to set your camera to make sure you can capture them because unless they’re really extreme a phone will struggle.

We looked into the best camera settings for capturing the Northern Lights before we left and had them saved in advance to increase our chances of getting a good shot. It’s lucky we did!

Basically, you should try a wide-open aperture, a high ISO and a long shutter speed with your camera on a tripod. Use a remote or set a 2-second timer to reduce the chances of bumping it.

You might need to adjust your focus to manual to focus on the stars first. From there you can make adjustments, but it can be hard when they’re moving all the time and long exposures take what feels like forever!

It really is hard to come out from behind the viewfinder as you try to get the perfect shot, but remember to look up and enjoy this stunning natural phenomenon.

Keeping your gear safe and dry can be a little tricky so make sure you can get your camera covered quickly and keep that lens clean in adverse weather.

It’s cold

Obviously…but how cold is Iceland really?

The thing about winter in Iceland is that it’s not colder than many other popular winter destinations, and it’s actually even warmer than some!

I was colder in Berlin in winter than I ever was in Iceland, and in wintertime, it’s warmer on average than the Eastern US. You can expect the temperature to be around 0 to 4 degrees Celsius, although of course at higher altitude it can be much cooler!

The weather is extreme and unpredictable

Although it isn’t as cold as you might think in winter, that doesn’t mean the weather in Iceland isn’t extremely unpredictable. We faced everything from beautiful blue skies to complete whiteouts (while we were driving of course!) and crazy winds like nothing I’ve ever seen.

The car rental company actually specifically told us to watch our doors when we open them because the winds can basically rip them off and then the car’s a write-off.

Expect that the weather will be changeable and you might need to adjust your plans a bit as you go along.

Iceland is still expensive in winter

The rumours you’ll hear when you talk about Iceland are true. It is a very expensive country. Unlike many places that have a cheaper offseason (offseason travel in Europe is my favourite!).

The peak season may be from June to August, and accommodation and flights may become slightly more affordable, but overall Iceland is not the cheapest location for a holiday.

Getting around Iceland can be expensive, because you’ll either need to take a tour or hire a car to get the most out of your experience and they’re not the cheapest, and even if you opt for lower-end accommodation it’ll still be more expensive than many other European destinations, and you still need your own sleeping bag!

That’s not to say you can’t travel Iceland on a budget, it’s just that what that budget is, is relative!

The biggest area where you can tighten the purse strings is your food and alcohol budget. A pint of lager can cost £9-10 and a main meal £20 at minimum (that’s burger and chips in town). Instead, buy food at supermarkets, take packed lunches, or try food from petrol stations. The burgers are surprisingly good.

Also, don’t forget to grab some duty-free alcohol on your way in, because it’s the cheapest you’re ever going to see it, even if you take advantage of happy hours.

The trick to Iceland is to accept the cost of things and prepare yourself each day to buy as little as possible while out.

Make use of bars that have happy hours and, if you’re staying at a hotel check the price of their menu, it may be the only thing for miles around to eat!

And it’s still busy in winter too

I haven’t experienced Iceland in summer, so I genuinely can’t tell you what it’s like, but as someone who has travelled a lot, I wouldn’t call Iceland quiet in the winter season.

Every attraction we went to still had plenty of other people around, other than when we went to Jokulsarlon really early, but then within half an hour there were plenty more people around. There are still tour busloads of other visitors to contend with, and we didn’t go to the Blue Lagoon because it was booked it.

It was so different from my visit in 2013 when my two Icelandic friends drove me around the Golden Circle and across to Jökulsárlón, and we were the ONLY people at almost every place we stopped. Including the lagoon!

So much so that when the petrol light came on and our cards wouldn’t work at the self-pump station we genuinely worried about running out of petrol and no one passing us!

Iceland in winter looks different to what you might expect

Iceland winter travel is very different to the other seasons and different to what you might be expecting.

Many of the images used to showcase Iceland are summer images, with lush greens and epic vistas.

The winter turns Iceland into a different looking country altogether, and even though I did some research on Iceland in winter I didn’t expect it to look like it did, with SO much snow everywhere.

Many of the pictures I’ve seen advertising or talking about winter in Iceland show a sprinkling of snow on the ground at the main attractions, and slightly heavier in some places.

Of course, it depends on the year, but we went to Iceland in November and everything was completely white.

I asked my Icelandic friends if this was normal, since the first time I visited it was October and there was far less snow, but they assured me come November it’s usually like this! This isn’t a bad thing at all, but it might not be what you were thinking!

Kirkjufell is beautiful in the snow

Kirkjufell (Church Mountain in Icelandic) has become an icon if Iceland, appearing in promotional material all over the place, and cementing its reputation by featuring in Game of Thrones.

It rises 463 metres and sits on an isolated peninsula in Snæfellsnes in the west of Iceland. From one side the mountain looks steep with a flat top, and from the other, it looks rounded.

I’ve often seen photos of it in green and orange with the changing of the seasons, but I had never seen it completely white like it was when we visited Iceland in winter.

The Golden Circle is a great winter day trip from Reykjavik

Ok so it’s great any time of year, but in winter it can be particularly spectacular!

The main attractions are Thingvellir National Park, which becomes a winter wonderland, the Geyser geothermal area where you can see water bursting high above the snow-covered landscape and Gullfoss waterfall, which can be surrounded by ice.

There are also some other stops that have become more popular recently, like the Kerid Crater Lake, although if it’s frozen over it loses a bit of its dramatic appeal.

You’ll need your swimsuit for all the natural hot pools and springs

If you thought that travelling to Iceland in winter would mean leaving your bathing suit at home then you’d be very mistaken!

Most people are aware of the Blue Lagoon, of course, a geothermal spa that’s one of the top attractions in Iceland.

It’s a matter of personal opinion as to whether to Blue Lagoon is worth visiting. It is quite expensive and you need to book in advance, but luckily there are plenty of free natural hot springs and hot pools all over Iceland.

But don’t discount the local swimming pools as well

If you’re wondering where the locals go for their geothermal fix, there are actually a lot of manmade pools you can pay a small fee (compared to the Blue Lagoon!) to visit.

I’m not going to give away my local friend’s favourite pool but a quick Google search of swimming pools should help you to find some options wherever you’re staying!

They may not be natural, but many of them are still heated by geothermal waters.

And you can snorkel and dive in Iceland in winter too

Snorkelling and diving might not sound like things you want to do in the freezing waters of Iceland, but trust me, you do!

At Thingvellir on the Golden Circle route is Silfra, a crack between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates that’s one of the best places to snorkel and drive in the world. The water in the Silfra fissure stays the same temperature year round, and underwater visibility is over 100 metres.

As a birthday present my husband treated me to snorkeling in the Silfra fissure, and it was incredible. We were the only people on our 2 pm tour, the last of the day in winter.

Our guides loaded us up with gear (dry suits) to help protect us from the cold as much as possible, and we entered the clear water surrounded by snow. The water is so clear that the blue looks like someone turned up the saturation up, but it seriously looks like that!

Read More:  Silfra: Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates in Iceland

Icelandic horses

Need I say more? These small horses are so cute!

They’re a special breed developed in Iceland from the horses brought by Vikings over 1000 years ago, and although they’re called horses, they’re more like the size of ponies.

You’ll see them quite near the roadside in many locations, and they’re pretty friendly if you want to stop and take a photo. Just be careful if it’s a busy road!

Yes, that crashed airplane in Iceland is real

But do you really want to trek 4km each way to see it?

In 1973 a US Navy plane crashed on Sólheimasandur beach. Everyone survived but the wreckage was abandoned. It’s become a well-photographed attraction, but due to its popularity the road has been closed and you now need to walk to see it, along with the hoards of other people who will be doing the same.

If you want to see it for yourself and it’s not blowing a gale like when we drove past the newly built parking area then, of course, you should go, but 100% do not expect to get photos of it with no one on it, unless you visit super early, super late, in bad weather, or use photoshop!

You should get travel insurance

It might seem extreme to get insurance for a short break, but with all the outdoor things you’ll be doing and in potentially adverse weather it’s better to be on the safe side.

The few times we fell over on the ice and could have broken ourselves, or our camera gear made it worth it. You don’t know what situations you’ll find yourself in. So just do it ok!

And don’t forget the car hire insurance

On top of normal travel insurance, car hire insurance is crucial in Iceland.

Sometimes it’s tempting to opt out of car insurance because you think you drive all the time and nothing happens, but Iceland isn’t exactly your normal driving situation. There’s the extreme wind that can cause damage to the car through loose gravel, windscreen chips from the same gravel, icy roads, and unfamiliar conditions. This even applies in summer!

It is possible to get car excess insurance as part of travel insurance, or in a separate policy online much cheaper than the ones offered by the hire company. The only issue with this is that some hire companies will then want a credit card hold in case something happens because effectively you would have to pay upfront then claim from the other insurance. And this hold/deposit can potentially be £2500.

For example, if you chip the windscreen you will then be charged for this amount to take up yourself with your separate insurers later on.

It’s very hard to say what the best option is because if you don’t need it, it feels like wasted money and if you do you’ll never be happier to have spent it.

We found car insurance online for £58 or with the company for £168 and though the second was more expensive it meant no excess and no deposit from our credit card which we might have wanted to use elsewhere. Think it through carefully.

Take the right gear

Billy Connolly once said “In Scotland, there’s no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong clothes.”, and I can safely say this applies to Iceland too!

Winter weather in Iceland requires preparation (do you sense a theme to this piece?). Some visit and will say it’s mild if a bit snowy others will tell you it’s freezing and a blizzard.

The truth? It can be both.

Our trip was gloriously snowy with sunshine and bitingly cold with tons of cloud.

We packed some good thermals and warm, waterproof coats. After that, layers are your friend so you can stay in control.

It’s a good idea to try and avoid jeans if it’s snowing because they stay wet. Good, waterproof boots are a must and we both chose to wear hiking boots the whole trip.

While we were out and about we saw people with some very wet and very cold feet as their trainers just weren’t up to the job.

You don’t need to spend a fortune on winter gear for Iceland. Consider water-resistant and warmth and look for budget options, or try second hand!

The ice part of Iceland really is epic

Iceland has 269 named glaciers and an uncountable amount of ice caves. You can only take a tour of the ice caves in winter, because of the danger of them collapsing.

Basically, they change every year, and tour operators have to scope out new places to guide people all the time. Touring an ice cave in Iceland is magical, and an experience you definitely need to plan into your itinerary if you want to make it happen since the tours are so popular!

And don’t miss the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon if you have the time

You need to set aside at least 2 days to make the journey from Reykjavik to Jökulsárlón in winter, and preferably 3 if you want to do more stops along the way and spend some decent time there without driving in the dark. It’s still one of my favourite places ever, and what made me fall in love with Iceland in the first place.

There’s so much to see on the drive there (or back) and unfortunately, we ran out of time to see a lot of it due to the lack of daylight hours in winter.

However, being able to watch the low sunrise at the lagoon isn’t something I’ll forget in a hurry. If you have even more time, consider a stop at Iceland’s OTHER glacier lagoon .

Don’t be disheartened

Iceland winter travel can be hard and if the weather is against you it can also mean you may not see what you want to.

Our first day left us struggling with Iceland a bit due to a snow storm and very little visibility. Unlike other places, Iceland does make you work for the sights it has to show you so bear with it!

Luckily, we ended up driving part of the same road again, this time with clear skies we were able to take in the landscape and experience everything we’d missed, it really took our breath away.

Manage your expectations and don’t go expecting stunning views around every corner, sometimes it may be a little cloudy.

Remember: The extra work is worth it

From the early starts to the stressful drives, the cold weather and the annoying layers, and even the high cost of things – there are many things to frustrate you about your trip. But all of it is very much worth it.

Is it as good as everyone tells you? YES! Iceland isn’t overrated, but it does take planning and patience.

I feel like our trip was a great success now. We lucked out with several clear days and saw the elusive northern lights, but that was after I had a mini-meltdown when halfway through we hadn’t seen as many of the things I had planned and wanted us to and we were super stressed out about the driving.

Everyone kept telling me how great our trip looked, and it was after I relaxed and allowed us to go with the flow with whatever the country threw at us!

If you go wanting to see particular things and the northern lights for example, you open yourself up to disappointment unless you’re planning a long trip where your chances of being them are higher.

Enjoy the country and what it offers in winter, knowing your plans might need to change and you’ll have to find alternative things to do, but they might be just as good!

It really is magical

To see this beautifully rugged country in the winter months is an experience that you’ll never forget. It is truly one of my favourite places in the whole world.

Yes, the weather is unreliable but if you kit yourself right then you’re ready for it. If you drive sensibly giving yourself time to get from place to place you’ll be able to see snow-covered mountains, huge waterfalls, and stunning landscapes and not stress.

It’s a magical place, so do what you can, and enjoy all that Iceland in winter has to offer!

Where to stay in Iceland

Accommodation in Iceland can be expensive, especially if you leave it until the last minute to book and have limited options.

The places you’ll most likely be staying in winter are Reykjavik, Vik, and Hof, or near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Snæfellsnes.

Note that some of the following are affiliate links.

Spend a couple of nights in Reykjavik, or use it as your base.

Where you stay will depend on your budget, but everything from hostels to hotels and Airbnb are options. For a budget option try Loft Hostel or look at apartments in the city centre that will allow you to do some of your own cooking and save money!

Vik makes a great stop on the drive to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and by breaking the journey you’ll be able to see many more places along the way. Vik itself is a great destination, with black sand beaches and striking rock formations.

Note that there are few places to stay in Vik itself, so you might need to consider the surrounding area as well. Icelandair Hotel Vik and Kosy Vik are located in Vik itself, close to the beach, and are great mid-range options, or even with considering for solo travellers because a room in a hostel isn’t cheap!

Jökulsárlón

I can HIGHLY recommend the Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon . It was an amazing place to stay for the night before we went to watch the sunrise at the Jökulsárlón lagoon just down the road.

The rooms were beautifully done with high ceilings and large windows to try and spot the Northern Lights from. Their included breakfast was a huge, tasty buffet spread, and perfect to set us up for the day.

Snæfellsnes

The peninsula has a lot of accommodation spread out across it, and it’s worth staying a night somewhere to give you more time to explore.

You don’t need to be too particular since you’ll likely drive around most of it anyway, but we loved staying near Arnarstapi , and it’s where we saw the northern lights!

Planning your Iceland trip? Check out these posts:

• Without a car? Check out  The Best Iceland Winter Tours: Getting Around Without a Car
• Want to have an epic experience? Read  Silfra: Snorkelling Between Tectonic Plates in Iceland
• Visiting in November? Read  What it’s Like Visiting Iceland in November + Top Tips For Your Trip
• Game of Thrones fan? Check out the  Game of Thrones Locations in Iceland Guide + Map to Find Them
• Want to see epic scenery? Check out  21 Epic Hikes in Iceland (For All Levels!)

Sonja x If you liked it, pin it! 

Sonja - Migrating Miss

Sonja is from New Zealand but now lives in Scotland with her husband and two little boys, after having lived in 5 other countries along the way including the USA, Australia, Canada, and Spain. Travelling has always been her passion and she has now made it her full-time job and worked in the industry for the last 8 years. She shares her living abroad experiences and best tips to make your travel experiences the best they can be!

10 thoughts on “ Iceland in Winter: 25 Things To Know Before You Go ”

I love your photos Sonja! Iceland is so beautiful in winter, but as you say a whole different ballgame than during the summer! We had quite a few scary situations on the road, and I’m glad we didn’t go for a huge road trip, but rather just a day trip in the car! For our brief trip in December, guided tours were definitely the way to go for a relaxed experience!

Thanks so much! I’d love to go in summer as well to see what it’s like, although sandstorms are an issue then too haha. We definitely had some hairy moments too! In hindsight I wouldn’t have been so ambitious with travelling so far. It’s easy to look back now and say it was fine because overall it was a great trip, but at the time my blood pressure was definitely up haha.

I want to go to Iceland so badly but this was seriously SO helpful. I would definitely be looking at going in the winter (mainly for the northern lights and also I freakin love winter) but some of these things I’d never have even considered. And the horses oh my goshhhhhh. Seriously saving this post for future use. And sending it to my mom to convince her we def need to go to Iceland.

Thanks!! I’d definitely recommend it but like I said, be prepared haha. You can still go a little earlier or later (like October or March/April) and be able to see the northern lights. They’re around all year, it’s just that in winter you see them the most and it’s darker!

Absolutely beautiful and informative post! Thanks for sharing this helpful info. I’m yet to visit Iceland and these days I’m kicking myself as to why I didn’t include it on my 3-month Europe trip back in 2013, it seems so popular now! Obviously it would be cold and windy there but I didn’t realise the strength of the wind would be enough to rip off a car door at times – crazy stuff! I’ll definitely be referencing yoir tips for when I do get to visit, awesome advice 🙂

It has definitely increased in popularity, but just make sure you plan a trip next time you’re over haha. I hope you do make it soon! 🙂 🙂

So much good info here! I’ll be bookmarking it now haha.

Aw thanks!!! 😀

What an amazing photos!! Iceland looks so amazing, I hope to get a chance to go someday! Thanks for sharing Migrating ?

Thank you!! 😀

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Visiting Iceland in Winter: Top 18 Winter Activities in Iceland

Last updated: December 18, 2023 - Written by Jessica Norah 41 Comments

Visiting Iceland in winter can be a wonderful experience as there are fewer people, beautiful winter landscapes, and chances to see the Northern Lights! There are also a number of fun winter activities to do like skiing, dog sledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and joining in on holiday celebrations.

Although some attractions in Iceland close or become inaccessible during the winter, many of Iceland’s most famous spots are still easy to visit, including the Golden Circle, waterfalls, Blue Lagoon, glaciers, black sand beaches, museums, ice caves, and the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.

This post focuses on the best things to do in Iceland during the winter, and we cover everything from heli-skiing to holiday celebrations to Northern Lights tours! We provide information on how to do them independently (when possible) for those who want to rent a car and drive themselves.

We also provide information on how to book winter day tours for those who want to base themselves in Reykjavík and take guided experiences.  

Table of Contents:

How to Travel Around Iceland in Winter

One of the first things you should decide when planning your winter trip to Iceland is how you want to get around the country. The two most popular ways to get around Iceland are by taking a bus tour or by renting a car, but you can also hire a private driver guide or take the public bus. Biking and hiking are not recommended as a way to get around Iceland during the winter months unless you are traveling short distances.

The local public  bus system can get you to all the main cities and towns in Iceland and although not the quickest, it is the best budget option. Buses may not stop at all the attractions you may want to visit so check the routes and schedules to decide if this is a good fit for you.

Note that the Iceland hop-on hop-off buses , with the exception of the hop-on hop-off Reykjavík city sightseeing buses (run daily, year-round), do not run in the winter months.

If you want to travel independently by car, you can rent a car from either of Iceland’s main airports or downtown Reykjavík. In the winter, we’d recommend something with 4-wheel drive and winter tires. We recommend comparing Iceland  rental car prices online here to find the best deal.

If you’d like to travel independently, but would rather have someone else make all the arrangements, you can also  book a  self-drive trip in Iceland  where all the bookings are made for you (e.g., rental car, hotels), but you still travel independently and drive yourself. See our prior post with  Iceland planning tips   to help you decide what option might work best for you.

If you plan to drive, check out our Iceland winter driving tips and advice . Be sure to  check road  and  weather conditions before you set out each day, and I’d also take a look and bookmark the Iceland SafeTravel website .

Here is our recommended 1 week Iceland road trip itinerary , which may be a handy reference for planning your winter trip.

Day Trip Tours from Reykjavík

Many people base themselves in Reykjavík, and then set out in day trips to explore Iceland. This is particularly a good option in the winter months for those who don’t want to drive themselves and want to return to the same hotel or apartment each evening. Day trips can take you to all of the most popular highlights of Iceland, and we’d recommend focusing on western and southern Iceland.

On our trips to Iceland, we’ve used a number of tour operators and booking portals. These include  Iceland Travel ,  Get Your Guide , Guide to Iceland , and Viator . You can see some of our favourite day trips from Reyjkavik here .

Guided Multi-Day Tours

If you are planning to join a multi-day tour, there are a number of operators (most based in Reykjavík) to choose from that can provide longer tours from overnight trips to 2 week tours. Itineraries often include, or include the option to add-on, many of the recommended winter activities covered in this post.

Although this article is geared towards those who are either planning to take day trips or drive themselves, this post can help give you some ideas for the types of activity options and destinations you want to look for in a tour itinerary. When searching for multi-day tours, we’d recommend choosing an escorted tour that is particularly designed for winter such as this 4 day tour .

You can see this curated list of some of the best guided tours of Iceland that range from 2 days to 12 days. It includes tours appropriate for all seasons, including many winter tours.

Top 18 Winter Activities in Iceland 

Now onto our list of recommend top winter activities in Iceland! If you are visiting Iceland in winter, there are limitations as some activities are not available and certain attractions are inaccessible; however, there are also fun things to do in Iceland that you can only do during the winter months.

Our list focuses only on things that you can do in Iceland during the winter months. For each winter activity, we discuss information for both travelers who plan to travel independently by car and for those who want to travel via guided day trips with a base in Reykjavík.

These winter activities are listed in no particular order: 

1. Hunting for the Northern Lights 

If you’re visiting Iceland in winter, then you are probably hoping to see the Northern Lights, or the aurora borealis , during your trip. This spectacular natural light show can fill the sky with varying hues of green and red, and can be a magical event to experience. The Northern Lights can be seen from autumn to spring, with the best chance being during the evenings of the winter months. 

Northern Lights By Car

In order to see the Northern Lights you need a combination of several things: high levels of solar activity, darkness (you can only see them at night), clear or partly clear skies, and an absence of light pollution.

Some of these elements you can’t control (e.g., solar activity, cloud cover) so seeing them is partially down to nature and luck. But you can control where you are and if you have a car, you can head to sparsely populated areas where there is little light pollution, clear to mostly clear skies, and the weather forecast shows a chance of the aurora.

Check the aurora forecasts for the best days and times to see them by using online websites, apps, or asking at your hotel (hotel desk staff often post the daily aurora forecasts and many hotels offer a wake-up service if there is activity).

We used the  Icelandic Meteorological Office Aurora Forecast  to monitor activity during our trip as it is probably the best one to use in Iceland, and also got on the list at most of our hotels for the aurora wake-up service.

It can be tricky to get good photos of the Northern Lights. But here is a guide about how to photograph the Northern Lights and includes tips for different types of cameras and smartphones.

Northern Lights Tours from Reykjavík

If you are only going to do one tour while in Iceland in winter, we’d recommend booking a Northern Lights tour. We’d also recommending doing this as a tour rather than trying to hunt for them yourself. Tour operators know where to go to find the darkest spots, know how to interpret the meteorological data, know where they can park, and usually only operate if there’s a chance of seeing them.

Tours are canceled same day if there is no chance of seeing the Northern Lights, and most companies offer a free rescheduling for the following day if the trip is canceled or if you go but don’t see the Northern Lights. Be sure to check the tour conditions so you understand what happens if your tour is cancelled or you don’t see the Northern Lights. 

Northern Lights tours are very popular throughout the winter months, and there are a number of variations available depending on your preferences, including group bus tours like this one and this one , a private tour , and a super jeep tour .

Some Northern Lights tours also include additional experiences like meals, thermal baths, glacier walks, or Super Jeep tours. For example, this tour includes a geothermal bath visit, dinner, and Northern Lights viewing. Or this full day tour includes a classic Golden Circle tour during the day and then Northern Lights hunting in the evening.

All tours include transportation, driver, and guide, and the majority depart from Reykjavík. 

2. Skiing and Snowboarding in Iceland

If you enjoy skiing and are looking for a lesser known European destination, Iceland is a good bet. It is not nearly as well-known or popular as many spots in Europe so the resorts aren’t hugely crowded, and there are almost no trees to accidentally hit!

The resorts are much smaller here, but opportunities include downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and off-trail skiing. There are also unique opportunities like skiing down to the Ocean, Cat skiing (reaching tops of mountain by snowcat) and even  heli-skiing  in a couple of locations in Iceland. Most ski resorts have runs that cater to both newbies and more experienced skiers.

Although the ski season in Iceland can extend from mid-November to May, most resorts open in December and close by the end of April. However, for the best skiing (and chance of good snow) I’d go in February or March, especially if you are a downhill skier or snowboarder. Because of limited winter hours, almost all ski resorts have lights on their main slopes which allow for night skiing.

If planning to ski or snowboard, check out our ski holiday packing list for a list of things you probably want to pack.

Iceland Ski Trip by Car

You can actually design an entire itinerary around skiing in Iceland as you’ll find ski opportunities in the north, west, south, and east of Iceland! When choosing where to ski, I’d base it on where you plan to travel in Iceland, past ski experience, and the current snow and trail conditions. Just note that driving in the northern and eastern parts of Iceland in winter can be more difficult than in the south and west.  

In western Iceland, there are two Reykjavík area ski slopes . There is Bláfjöll ski resort, which is the largest and most visited ski resort in Iceland, and Skálafell ski resort. Then in the Westfjords you have  Dalirnir near Ísafjörður. In the east, you have a couple of options Stafdalur  and Oddsskarð . Then in the far northwest you have  Tindastóll near Sauðárkrókur.

For those who are visiting Iceland primarily for skiing or snowboarding, I’d recommend basing yourself in northeastern Iceland. Akureyri or nearby would be a good base for the several ski resorts in the area. These include  Hlíðarfjall which is considered Iceland’s premier ski destination and also sits at the highest elevation. It offers pistes that range from beginner level to difficult, cross-country trails, a ski rental shop, and a ski school. 

If you’re planning to spend more than a couple of days skiing in Iceland, I’d invest in the local Ski Pass which allows you to ski at 5 ski resorts in northern Iceland over 5 days so you can try out all the local slopes and save money on day fees.

Heli-skiing is where you are taken to the top of a mountain by a helicopter and then you can ski down. If that sounds like fun you can book a heli-skiing trip on the Tröllaskagi Peninsula (part of the northeast) with Arctic Heli Skiing or Viking Heli Skiing . In some cases you can ski all the way to the ocean.

Note that heli-skiing season usually starts later and runs later than regular skiing at the resorts, often February to June. If heli-skiing is a bit too scary or pricey for your tastes, you can also do cat skiing in northern Iceland with companies such Kaldbaksferðir , where you are taken to the top of the mountain by a snowcat to ski, sled, or snowboard down.

Skiing Tours

You can find a few ski tours in Iceland, including day tours and a multi-day tour, on offer from local operators. However, there are few ski or snowboard oriented tours available in Iceland so the best option for most people is going to be to arrange their own trip. 

We’d recommend booking a taxi or other private transport to and from the ski resorts of your choice. The closest to Reykjavík, which can easily be done as a day trip, is the Bláfjöll ski resort 25 minutes drive from Reykjavík. Bláfjöll is the largest and probably the most popular ski resort in Iceland. It offers family friendly slopes, gear rental, and ski lessons (on weekends).

There is also Skálafell ski resort, which is also about a 25 minute drive from Reykjavík, but it is a much smaller resort than Bláfjöll. You can also fly or take the public bus to Akureyri and hit about a half dozen ski resorts within day tripping distance. 

In deciding on a ski resort, I would base your decision on your location, amount of time, your skill level, and how much you want to ski. If you are short on time or want the most convenient option, I’d visit the ski resorts within driving distance of Reykjavík. If you want to ski a lot, I’d head to Akureyri where there is the highest concentration of skiing opportunities. For the most variety in ski slopes, I’d head to Hlíðarfjall in northern Iceland or Bláfjöll if you are day tripping from Reykjavík.

At most resorts in Iceland you should be able to rent any skiing or snowboarding gear you need (although always best to bring your own ski boots if you own them) but do check ahead.

3.  Celebrating Christmas or New Years in Iceland

Visiting Iceland in winter means you might be around for one of the holiday celebrations that take place at this time of year. Christmas celebrations in Iceland start on December 12th and intensify until December 23rd, Þorláksmessa (St. Þorlákur’s Day), when it is traditional to eat fermented skate (skata) and potatoes and is a big shopping day for many Icelanders.

Around the Christmas season, you can enjoy the holidays lights and decorations, Christmas markets, Christmas carols and concerts, and learning about Icelandic Christmas traditions. Christmas itself is celebrated on December 24th, and it’s traditionally a family affair spent at home. For more of a party atmosphere, you’ll want to be in Iceland for New Years Eve, when it’s traditional to attend a bonfire and set off fireworks. The “end” of Christmas on January 6th (Twelfth Night) is also usually marked with fireworks and bonfires.

Icelandic Holidays By Car

The best place to be for the holidays is probably Reykjavík as there you’ll find the most people, most events, and largest public celebrations. If you are wanting to do some Christmas shopping, you’ll also find the largest number of stores here, and some stores and restaurants stay open on holidays (although many do close). I’d check out local websites or newspapers, or talk to your hotel staff or locals to find out what holiday events will be happening during your visit. 

Another idea if you want to get out of Reykjavík is to head to northern Iceland and visit the Lake Mývatn area. This is the home of the 13 Yule Lads  which are a huge part of the Icelandic Christmas story. The celebrations begin on December 12th and there are a series of family-friendly events in the area leading up to Christmas which include music concerts, buffet holiday meals, family craft workshops, handicraft markets, and an annual bath with the Yule Lads! Akureyri is a good place to base in the north during the holidays.

Icelandic Holiday Tours from Reykjavík

If you are visiting around Christmas, I’d check for Christmas related tours that are being offered. For example this  4 night Christmas tour  includes 4 nights lodging, a 3 day coach tour including the Golden Circle and South Coast, a trip to the Blue Lagoon, a Christmas meal, and a Christmas themed walk. If you are looking to visit both Reykjavík and northern Iceland, I’d check out tours to Akureyri as well.

On New Years Eve you can take a Fireworks Cruise to see the fireworks from the water and celebrate the New Year, or you can take a bonfire tour to experience a number of the traditional local bonfires around the city.

4. Exploring the Wonders of the Golden Circle 

One of the most popular year-round day trips from Reykjavík is to explore the “Golden Circle”, which includes a number of Iceland’s most popular landmarks. These include the mighty 2-tiered Gullfoss waterfall , the bubbling pools and geysers of the Geysir geothermal area, and Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park .

Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO world heritage site and contains some of the most important historic, geological, and religious spots in Iceland. It also contains Games of Thrones filming locations !

Golden Circle Self Drive

Driving the Golden Circle makes for a great day out from Reykjavík as you can see some of Iceland’s spectacular natural geological features plus learn a bit about Iceland’s cultural history. If you are driving from Reykjavík, it is about a 40 minute drive to Thingvellir National Park, then 53 minutes further to Geysir, and then 10 minutes further to Gullfoss waterfall.

The route is well-marked and signed. Without stops it takes about 3.5 hours to drive the route round-trip with return back to Reykjavík; however, with stops I’d suggest at least 6 to 7 hours.

In additional to those 3 main stops, you can also consider going snorkeling or  diving at Þingvellir National Park (only if you have certified diving experience), stopping in at the greenhouses at Friðheimar where you can see a geothermal greenhouse and have lunch with food grown there, tasting the locally made ice cream at the  Efstidalur farm  restaurant, or going for a soak at a geothermal bath such as  Fontana Geothermal Baths  or the Secret Lagoon . 

If you are planning to drive the Golden Circle, see our complete guide to driving the Golden Circle .

Golden Circle Tours from Reykjavík

All Iceland tour companies offer Golden Circle day trips from Reykjavík as this is the most popular day trip from the city. If you are looking for a nice day out with stops at all three of the main sites along the Golden Circle, we recommend checking out a Golden Circle tour, such as this classic tour or this popular tour which also includes a stop at Kerid Crater. You can also arrange  a private tour .

If you also want to do the Blue Lagoon, there are a number of tours that include the Blue Lagoon with the Golden Circle, such as  this one .

5. Exploring Ice Caves & Glaciers 

Winter is the perfect time to explore an ice cave, a glacier, or an ice tunnel in Iceland. Tours allow you to actually get inside beautiful ice caves and tunnels so you can see their beautiful blue colors and learn about the formation of glaciers. You can also take tours that allow you to hike or snowmobile on top of glaciers. Iceland has a lot of glaciers and they cover about 11% of Iceland’s surface.

Note that in Icelandic, jökull means glacier or piece of ice. So if you see a word ending in jökull, it is probably the name of a glacier.

Ice Caves & Glaciers Day Trips By Car

Trying to explore an ice cave or tunnel, hike onto a glacier, or drive onto a glacier on your own can be incredibly dangerous if you don’t have the necessary knowledge and equipment. This can be particularly dangerous in the winter when snow can disguise cracks and crevasses in the ice.

We highly recommend only doing these things with a trained guide and proper equipment. There are many private guides and group tours available that can help you safely examine these spots.

If you are not wanting to join a bus tour from Reykjavík, you can drive to the location on your own and join a local tour or guide near the ice cave or glacier. This a great option for those who want to join activities during a road trip around Iceland.

Some ice cave tours offered in the winter include an ice crystal cave tour which departs from Reykjavík, an exploration of ice caves around Vatnajökull glacier with pick-up from Jokulsarlon  Glacier Lagoon (southern Iceland), this ice cave and glacier tour from Gullfoss , and the Into the Glacier tour from Reykjavík.

For glacier exploration we’d recommend checking out this Golden Circle and Langjokull Glacier snowmobile tour from Reykjavik, this hike of Vatnajökull glacier from Skaftafell National Park, or a hike and ice climbing at Solheimajökull glacier . 

If you want to combine some ice cave exploring with a glacier hike, this 4 hour tour from Skaftafell National Park includes both a glacier hike and ice cave tour of Vatnajökull glacier.

Glacier and Ice Cave Day Trips from Reykjavík

All the following tours depart from Reykjavík. If you’d rather depart from another location, see tours listed in the section above. Note that these tours range from low physical activity to needing to be fairly physical strenuous so be sure to read the guidelines and recommendations to find a tour that is a good fit for you.

Ice Caves Tours

There are a number of ice caves in Iceland, and from Reykjavík, we’d recommend this day tour of the   Katla Volcano ice cave .

If you are able to do an overnight trip, we recommend this small group tour which includes an ice cave tour, exploration of the South Shore, a visit to the glacier lagoon, and a Northern Lights hunt.

Ice Tunnel Tours

The Langjökull ice tunnel was made by a group of scientists and engineers on top of  Langjökull glacier , the second largest ice cap in Europe. The 1,800 ft. long ice tunnel and caves are the world’s first and largest man-made ice tunnel, and allows visitors to see the inside of a glacier.

We’d recommend checking out are this tour of the ice tunnel which includes a trip onto the glacier via a ride in a 8-wheel monster truck.

Glacier Tours 

If you are wanting to walk, snowmobile, or take a super jeep tour on top of a glacier, you’ll find there are several options for glacier day trips from Reykjavík. Most of these also include other activities along the South Coast.

Some tours to consider are this Golden Circle drive plus snowmobiling on a glacier, and this Golden Circle tour plus a glacier drive in a jeep , 

6. Enjoying the Glacier Lagoon and South Coast

Another popular drive in Iceland, and for good reason, is the trip along the south coast between Reykjavík and the Glacier Lagoon. This southeastern area of Iceland is home to multiple spectacular waterfalls, a huge expanse of lava field, black sand beaches, glaciers, and a lagoon filled with tiny icebergs. The main attractions in this area are accessible year-round, although may become temporarily inaccessible (e.g., due to a blocked, flooded, or closed road) during or following a storm.

Glacier Lagoon By Car

It is about 230 miles (372 km) from Reykjavík to the  Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon , and it takes about 4.5 hours to drive without stops. Once you get out of Reykjavík, you’ll mostly just follow Route 1 , which is the National Road of Iceland, and forms the famous Ring Road. Highlights along this route include views of the glacier topped volcano  Eyjafjallajökull  (well-known for its 2010 eruption), Seljalandsfoss waterfall, Skógafoss waterfall, Reynishverfi’s black sand beach, the village of Vík, and  Vatnajökull National Park .

For a return day trip with stops at all the listed highlights and meals, I would plan on at least 11 or 12 hours. Be sure to check weather forecast and road alerts before setting out.

Driving all the way to the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is a long drive from Reykjavík, and if you factor in all the stops, it is a long day out. If possible, we’d recommend overnighting here and heading back in the morning so you have more time to explore and don’t have to worry about driving late at night. The eastern part of Iceland also has low levels of light pollution so chances of seeing the Northern Lights are good if there is activity and clear skies.

If you do stay overnight in this area, we’d recommend staying in Kirkjubæjarklaustur or Vík. Around Kirkjubæjarklaustur, you may want to check out  Hotel Klaustur ,   Hotel Geirland ,  Hotel Laki , and the  Eldhraun Guest House . Around Vík, you can check out  Hotel Vik ,  Hotel Katla Hofdabrekka ,  Grand Guesthouse Gardakot ,  Guesthouse Steig , and the  Volcano Hotel .

Glacier Lagoon Tours from Reykjavík

If driving for over 9 hours round trip in potentially bad winter weather doesn’t sound fun, you can take an escorted tour instead and leave the driving up to someone else. We recommend doing this as an overnight tour so you can spend more time exploring, but if you only have the time for a day trip and need to return to Reykjavík the same day, we’d recommend this  Glacier Lagoon and South Shore tour . 

If you are able to do an overnight tour to the South Shore and Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, we recommend this small group tour which includes an ice cave tour, exploration of the South Shore, a visit to the glacier lagoon, and a Northern Lights hunt. 

7. Whale Watching

One of the reasons many people travel to Iceland is to see some of its local wildlife, and this includes whales. Iceland is one of the best whale watching destinations in Europe with over 20 whale species found in its waters. A whale watching tour can get you up close to these massive sea mammals, as well as a variety of other sea wildlife.

The main sea animals you are likely to see on a boat tour are the humpback whale, minke whale, fin whale, orca, white-beaked dolphin, and the harbor porpoise. Note that the best time to see whales in Iceland is during the summer months, but you still have a chance to see some species year-round. In fact, winter is the best time to see certain whales such as the Grundarfjördur orcas (killer whales).

If you are interested in the whales around Iceland, you might want to visit the Whales of Iceland exhibition in Reykjavík. It is located near the harbor where most of the whale watching tours leave. The museum provides an immersive learning experience and includes over 20 life-sized models of whales that have been found in Icelandic waters.

Whale Watching Tours

You could get lucky to spot a whale from shore, but your best chance to see one is to join a whale watching tour. The two main departure points in Iceland for whale watching tours are Reykjavík and Húsavík in northern Iceland.

Chances of seeing whales are high from both areas, and Húsavík has been nicknamed the whale watching capital of Europe. In the winter we’d recommend joining a tour in Reykjavík for convenience and the fact that many tour operators don’t operate during the winter in Húsavík.

In Reykjavík, most whale watching tours depart from the Old Harbor, and you can either book a tour in advance or head to Reykjavík’s Old Harbor and book one directly with one of the tour company kiosks at the harbor. Tours generally last between 2 to 4 hours.

This  whale watching tour is a popular one that leaves from the Harbor. Another company that offers well-reviewed whale watching tours are Elding which also operates the Whale Watching Centre . For instance, they offer this 3 hour tour that also includes access to the Whale Watching Centre. They report a 95% success rate of seeing dolphins in the summer months and 80% in the winter months.

NOTE: If you are also interested in seeing seabirds, winter is not a great time to travel to Iceland as there are few sea birds around. Spring and Summer are the best times of years to view sea birds. 

8. Snorkeling & Diving

Snorkeling in winter? No, we’re not completely mad. You can snorkel year round in Iceland, but you’re not going to be heading out to sea or spotting a lot of marine life.  Instead, the snorkeling trip takes place in the Silfra fissure in Thingvellir National Park. This is the site of a submerged crack between the two continental plates that run across Iceland, and the water here is incredibly clear with great visibility.

Being able to snorkel between the Eurasia and North American continental plates is a snorkeling experience like no other!

Snorkeling Trip by Car

The national park does not have any official guides or operators for snorkeling tours or equipment rentals, but there are several companies offering snorkeling tours and gear for those wanting to snorkel at Silfra. There are a number of tours for snorkeling that meet on site at the park like this one . 

As noted earlier you can also dive at two submerged rifts, Silfra and Davíðsgjá, but this is only for experienced divers and you’ll need dry suit certification as well as apply for a dive permit. Or you can join a guided dive (if you have the certification) with an approved operator such as this one . Find out more about diving in the Thingvellir National Park here .

Unless you have dived here before, you’ll probably want to have a guide, and for Silfra we’d recommend doing a guided dive such as this one .

If you are looking for other dives elsewhere in the country we’d recommend checking out this dive company based in Iceland. There are other spots you can dive in Iceland other than Silfra and a local guide can help you explore lesser known sites. For a local dive rental shop you can also check out HAF Sport .

Snorkeling Day Trip Tours from Reykjavík

There are a number of Silfra snorkeling tours that depart from Reykjavík. The tour we suggest with Iceland Travel is the snorkeling plus cave tour   which includes both snorkeling at Silfra plus the opportunity to explore a lava cave with pickup and drop off in Reykjavík. The tour price also  includes all the gear you’ll need, including a full dry suit that will keep you warm and dry even in freezing temperatures. 

9. Exploring the Highlights of Lake Mývatn

Northern Iceland gets far fewer visitors in winter than the rest of Iceland. But that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do here! Located near the town of Akureyri, volcanic Lake Mývatn  is home to a number of natural wonders such as craters, mud pools, massive waterfalls, and geothermal caves.

It is also a popular birding area, although most species are only here in the Spring and Summer months. Akureyri is also a great place to celebrate Christmas.

Lake Mývatn By Car

Making the effort to come up to northern Iceland is definitely rewarding, but bear in mind that winter weather can make for a challenging driving experience. Public buses or domestic flights are also options.

Highlights around Lake Mývatn include the Goðafoss Waterfall, Hverfjall crater, the pseudocraters of Skutustadagigar, lava pillars of Dimmuborgir, the Krafla volcano, and hot springs. You’ll definitely want to overnight in the area as there is plenty to explore and you’ll find a number of lodging options in Akureyri . 

Lake Mývatn Day Trip Tours

For a day trip from Reykjavík to Lake Mývatn, we’d recommend taking a look at this tour , which includes domestic flights and stops at Goðafoss Waterfall, the pseudocraters of Skutustadagigar, the lava pillars of Dimmuborgir, Reykjahlid village, the Krafla volcano, and Mývatn Nature baths. 

If you are searching for Game of Thrones locations in Iceland , this Mývatn tour from Akureyri  includes most of the popular filming locations. plus a soak in the Mývatn Nature baths. 

10. Horseback Riding

Icelandic horses are beautiful creatures, with long shaggy coats that help them withstand the tough Icelandic wintry conditions. They are very photogenic (they even made our Iceland photography guide ) and are unique in that they are one of a few horse breeds where a number of the horses have five distinct gaits.

You are likely to see an Icelandic horse during your trip without much effort as there are many farms with horses around the country, and you can even find a few at the Family Park & Zoo in Reykjavík. But if you want to get really up close, you can interact and ride Icelandic horses by visiting a farm and booking a horseback riding tour.

Icelandic Horseback Riding Tours by Car

There are over a dozen horse farms and riding facilities offering guided horse rides in Iceland, and I’d search in the area of the country you plan to visit. The highest concentration of farms offering riding is within an hour or two driving distance of Reykjavík, but you’ll find them scattered all over the country. At most places, you need to book your riding activity in advance. 

Some places to consider include  Laxnes Horse Farm near Mosfellsbær (just 15 minute drive north of Reykjavík), Íshestar Riding Centre in Hafnarfjörður (about 30 minutes south of Reykjavík, book a tour here ), and Langhus Farm in northern Iceland. 

You can also join guided tours or rent horses to ride (for more experienced riders) at Sólhestar (services around Reykjavík and south Iceland, book a tour here ).

Horses aren’t the only big mammals in Iceland, and if you looking for something a bit more wild consider reindeer trekking. If you’re interested in reindeer, then head to eastern Iceland, where you can join an experienced guide on a Reindeer Safari to track down these beautiful animals.

Icelandic Horseback Riding Tours from Reykjavik

There are also a number of tours you can take that focus on Icelandic horseback riding. From Reykjavík you can take a Horseback Riding Lava Tour , which visits the lava fields around either Mt Helgafell or Lake Hvaleyrarvatn. This tour is suitable for riders of any experience level. Some of the tours available at  Laxnes Horse Farm include pick up and drop off in Reykjavík. 

More experienced riders looking for a longer tour might prefer the Horseback Riding Viking Tour , which also departs from Reykjavík. This is a longer experience with both a morning and afternoon ride, and is for intermediate to experienced riders only.

You can see more tours here .

11. Appreciating the Museums & Cultural Attractions of Iceland

Reykjavík is Iceland’s capital city and also the cultural heart of Iceland. Here you’ll find many of the country’s best museums, parks, art, and cultural attractions, and most are open to visitors year-round. But you can also find some interesting cultural spots in other parts of the country, often ones that document a local history, industry, tradition, or saga.

Some of the biggest themes we noted after visiting a number of the country’s museums are art, local history, Icelandic sagas , maritime and fishing culture, and preserved buildings. Spending a few hours visiting some of the country’s museums is a great way to spend a winter afternoon, especially if the weather is not at its best.

Iceland Museums By Car

Reykjavík is easy to explore by foot, car, or public transportation, and many of the city’s top attractions are within walking distance of each other.  Some of the museums and cultural attractions you may want to visit in the capital are the  National Museum of Iceland ,  Hallgrímskirkja Church ,  The Settlement Exhibition ,  Reykjavík Family Park , Perlan Museum ,  Saga Museum ,  Árbaer Open Air Museum , and a number of art museums . Just about all attractions are open year-round in Reykjavík; however, many have reduced winter hours and are likely to be closed on holidays.

Outside of Reykjavík, a car makes it easy to reach all the country’s major museums and cultural attractions. It is easy to mix natural sites with cultural sites on an Iceland road trip itinerary .

The most notable historical attraction is probably  Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park  which is a site of historical, geological, and religious importance because it was the place of the first church, the site of the first parliament in Europe (the Alþingi general assembly), and has a number of notable geological features.

I’d also recommend the folk museum  Skógasafn in the town of Skógar, which is open-air museum complex plus two museums along the South Coast with over 15,000 artifacts and 6 historical buildings. 

Other museums and cultural attractions (many related to the country’s fishing culture and history) include: the  Whale Museum , Lava Centre ,  Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum , the Norwegian House , the  Icelandic Settlement Centre ,  Borgarnes Museum , and the Herring Era Museum . Note that most of these have reduced winter hours and some may open by appointment only in the winter months, so do check the attractions’ website or call ahead.

Iceland Museum tours

Since most of the country’s top museums and cultural attractions (see list above to get you started) are located in and around Reykjavík, we recommend that you are better off exploring on your own on foot or via public transportation.  For museums outside of Reykjavík, I’d book a private tour or join a group tour that goes to the specific museum(s) you are interested in visiting. 

If Thingvellir National Park is on your list, this one is easy as almost all Golden Circle day tours stop here.

12. Visiting the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a region in western Iceland known for its dramatic landscapes, and is accessible year-round. A couple of hours drive north of Reykjavík , this beautiful part of the country is home to a huge glacier as well as waterfalls, beaches, fishing villages, caves, and a glacier. It makes for a very interesting day trip from Reykjavík at any time of the year. 

The most known attraction on the peninsula is the glacier-topped mountain Snæfellsjökull as it was featured in Jules Verne’s  Journey to the Center of the Earth  as an entry point to get to the center of the earth. 

Snæfellsnes Peninsula Drive

The  Snæfellsnes Peninsula makes for a great day trip, and it takes about 2 hours to get from Reykjavík to the eastern side of the peninsula. After leaving Reykjavík, you’ll need to decide to take the undersea tunnel at Hvalfjordur (small fee, can save about 30 minutes) or you can follow along 47, a coastal road.  Once you get there, you can start by exploring either the southern or northern part of the peninsula and then loop around. There are few roads on the peninsula so the route is easy to follow once you get there.

If you start in the north, it is about a 2 hour and 10 minute drive to Stykkishólmur which is the largest town on the peninsula, and then you can head west along the northern part of the peninsula stopping at your choice of places of interest.

Some of the highlights include the town of Stykkishólmur,  Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum ,  Snæfellsjökull National Park , the beautiful Kirkjufell mountain and waterfall, the coastal area between the villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar, Djúpalónssandur’s   black-pebbled beach, and the cute wooden church known as Búðakirkja.

Glacier treks, snowmobiling trips, and cave tours are popular activities that can be booked at Snæfellsjökull from local companies (book any activities in advance). You can also book a winter  whale watching tour here th at leaves from Stykkishólmur – see tour details  here .

If you driving this as a day trip and wanted to see all the main highlights, it would be at least a 7 hour road trip round-trip from Reykjavík. However, with stops, I’d recommend at least 9 to 10 hours. Given the limited daylight hours in winter, you’ll want to leave in the morning and you won’t be back in Reykjavík until after dark.

Although this makes a great full day tip, if you have your own car and time, we’d recommend doing it as an overnight trip so you don’t have to rush. The peninsula is also a great place to see the Northern Lights.  If you do decide to overnight on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, some lodging options to consider:  Fosshotel Stykkishólmur  (Stykkishólmur),  Our Home Apartments  (Stykkishólmur),  Hotel Egilsen  (Stykkishólmur),  Old Post Office Guest House  (Grundarfjordur),  Fosshotel Hellnar  (Hellnar),  Arnarstapi Guesthouse  (near Arnarstapi), Guesthouse Hof  (near Budir), and  Hotel Budir  (Budir).

Snæfellsnes Peninsula Tours from Reykjavík

If you’d rather join a tour and not have to worry about the driving, there are several tours that run in the winter from Reykjavík. These include this popular 11 hour tour , and this 12 hour premium small group tour .

These each offer slightly different experiences and price points, so check them both out to be sure you pick the right tour for you. Each tour include stops at the main highlights on the peninsula, and the main differences are the tour length (10 to 13 hours) and group sizes.

13. Snowmobiling & Other Fun Snow Activities

For most of the winter in Iceland, you can pretty much be guaranteed that you’ll find snow somewhere in Iceland. Snow generally starts falling around November and can last as long as late May or early June, but late December to the end of March are going to be the prime time to visit for snow activities.

In addition to skiing and snowboarding (already covered above), you’ll find opportunities to go ice skating, snowmobiling, sledding, ice climbing, snowshoeing, dogsledding, and ice fishing. Or if those options sound exhausting (or too expensive), you can just head outside and build some snowmen or make snow angels.

Snowmobiling & Snow Activities by Car

It is easy to stop off for some fun in the snow if you are traveling in Iceland during the winter. The highland mountain roads will be closed throughout the winter to regular vehicles (including 4X4s) but many of these areas can still be explored on guided tours with snowmobiles, snowcats, or SuperJeeps. 

If you are coming to Iceland primarily for winter sports or snow activities, I’d recommend checking out offered multi-day treks or highly active winter trips with professional local guides that include activities like long-distance snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice climbing, hikes on glaciers, and skiing. However, if you are just looking to try out a winter activity or two on your trip, I’d just book a couple of tours to add onto your Iceland winter road trip .

If you need to rent winter gear while in Iceland (e.g., camping and climbing gear, ice axes, crampons, avalanche safety gear, emergency kits), I’d check out  Everest  in Reykjavík.

If you book a tour, most companies will outfit you with the necessary equipment, but I’d advise bringing along a good pair of waterproof hiking boots, warm layers, gloves, a hat, a waterproof jacket, and waterproof pants if you plan to spend much time in the snow. I would definitely buy and bring along any winter clothing you are going to need on your trip as buying winter clothing in Iceland can be very expensive. 

Note that if you are looking for a sled or sledge to go sledding then you will struggle to find one as it is not a popular activity in Iceland and there are no groomed tracks for tobogganing. So you may want to make your own sled (e.g., buy a plastic trash can lid) and find some snow-covered hills to enjoy. But if you want a real sledding experience, I’d book a Snowcat mountain tour with  Kaldbaksferðir  (located in northern Iceland near Akureyri) and then go sledding down the mountain with one of their own tough-built sleds that were designed to endure the ride down the mountain. 

For those looking to go ice skating, there is normally an outdoor public ice skating ring in Reykjavík over the holidays. There are also indoor ice skating rinks such as the  Reykjavík Skating Hall   and  Egilshöllin  in Reykjavík and The Skate Club in Akureyri. Ice climbers may want to head to Skaftafell, Sólheimajökull, or the icefalls in Kaldakinn, and can join ice climbing tours such as this one .

You’ll find plenty of snowmobiling and snowshoeing opportunities near glaciers and at higher elevations where there is more snow. For snowshoeing, you can go on your own or join a snowshoe day trip such as this introductory one  near Snæfellsjökull National Park and several snowshoe day trips offered by Wide Open . There are a variety of snowmobiling trips available, such as this one which includes the Golden Circle,  and this one   on Mýrdalsjökull glacier which includes Iceland’s southern coast.

For more unusual winter experiences, you can join a dog sledding tour , or go ice fishing on Lake Langavatn.

Snow Activities & Snowmobiling Tours from Reykjavík

Depending on what you are interested in, there are still a lot of winter activities you can do by day tripping from Reykjavík. First, ice skating can be done in the city itself at one of the indoor rinks or at the public outdoor rink that is often open in the winter.

For snowmobiling, there are a lot of tours, but since the best snowmobiling opportunities are 2 to 4 hours away, I’d recommend doing this as part of a longer day trip to make the most of your time. For example, you can go snowmobiling in addition to a Golden Circle SuperJeep tour  or combine a snowmobile tour with a thermal bath visit .

Other snow activities that you can join from Reykjavík include this  ice climbing tour .

14. Winter Hiking 

Iceland is a great country to go hiking, and it has a number of very popular hiking trails. The issue is that the majority of the most popular trails are located in the Highlands and are inaccessible in winter due to snow and ice. However, there are a number of scenic Lowland trails for those wanting to get a taste of hiking in Iceland! Winter hiking opportunities can be found throughout the country, and include inland trails, coastal trails, and even a number of smaller mountains. 

Note that if really want to hike in Iceland’s Highlands area, I’d strongly advise coming in summer or early autumn to hike the popular trails like Laugavegur and  Fimmvorduhals. Attempting to hike these trails in winter is considered unsafe unless you have proper winter mountaineering experience

Hiking Independently With Car

Obviously you need to be prepared for all kinds of winter weather, which can include rain, snow, and hail. Never underestimate the Icelandic weather as it can change rapidly, and it has gotten the better of many hikers. Bring warm layers, waterproof outer layers, good waterproof hiking boots, hat and gloves, and a waterproof hiking bag. 

If you plan to do longer hikes, you’ll also want to get needed navigational gear (e.g., compass, maps), winter weather gear (e.g., crampons, ice axe), safety gear (e.g., rent an emergency beacon), and medical emergency supplies (e.g., first aid kit, emergency blanket). For hiking and climbing gear, check out outdoor and camping supply stores such as  Everest  in Reykjavík.

Before attempting any hike on your own, be sure to learn as much about the hike and trail conditions so you are prepared. Also, be sure to check for weather and safety alerts on the Iceland SafeTravel website , which is run by the Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue. If you plan to go out hiking on your own, you can input your travel plan, contact information, and medical info on the website. You can also rent an emergency beacon at several locations in Iceland so that local search & rescue teams can located you quickly if necessary. 

If you are just looking for some nature hikes near (or even in) the capital (you can even find many trees!), I’d check out the  Heiðmörk nature reserve , Elliðaárdalur , and for an easy central hill hike  Öskjuhlíð .

If you are looking for something a bit more challenging, consider some of the smaller mountains near Reykjavík, most of which take between two and six hours to hike up and down. These include Mt. Mosfell, Mt. Helgafell, Mt. Keilir, and Mt.  Úlfarsfell. Mt. Esjan can also be a possibility if the weather conditions are good (not recommended to go past the Steinn as can be difficult and slippery even in summer!). Note that public buses can take you near the trailheads for many of these hikes.

There are also some lovely coastal, lava field, and hill hikes on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula that are safe to do year round in good weather conditions. Obviously there are hundreds of other winter hikes in Iceland you could do depending on which part of Iceland you are in, and I’d just consult with local people and check weather conditions for good and safe hikes as you travel. The safety and feasibility of most hiking trails is going to depend entirely on the weather.

If you are looking for more long-distance winter hiking, technical climbing, or mountaineering, I’d highly advise joining a tour or hiring a private local guide. They know where the best places to go are, the gear that is necessary, and what is and is not safe to attempt. I’d check out offerings from companies like Mountain Guides  and  Summit Guides , and if you don’t see what you are looking for, I’d contact them and see if they can help or recommend a local guide.

Connect with local hikers and hiking groups and they can let you know what places they’d recommend (and which they recommend avoiding) in the winter.

Hiking Tours  from Reykjavík

As noted above, there are actually a lot of easy to medium difficulty hikes located near Reykjavík which include local nature and recreation areas as well as smaller mountains. Most of these can actually be reached by taking the public bus or you could take a taxi to the trailhead.

If you are planning on one of the mountains, just be sure to check weather conditions and trail information before setting out.

For those looking for a day trip, you could take a tour like this one that includes a hike along the scenic trail into Reykjadalur and a hot spring stop or this one that includes a hike in the  Thórsmörk (Þórsmörk) Natural Reserve .  For those who are more fit, you can also join a private tour to summit  Snæfellsjökull with Summit Guides .

15. Taking Part in the Winter Festivals

If you are not visiting during Christmas or New Years, you can still catch some of the other fun winter holidays and festivals in Finland. For example there is  Þorrablót (Thorrablot) which is a mid-winter Icelandic festival which includes ancient Norse traditions and feasting on traditional Icelandic foods.

There is also the Winter Lights Festival in Reykjavík each winter that focuses on celebrating the increasing sun light (after a few months of darkness) and Icelandic culture. Before Lent, there are a number of food-related holidays such as Bolludagur (Bun Day) where it is common to eat cream buns or Sprengidagur (Shrove Tuesday) where it is traditional to eat a big meal with lots of salted meat (lamb being the popular choice). 

Other fun winter festivals in Iceland include the Reykjavík Food & Fun Festival ,  Design March , and the Annual Icelandic Beer Festival. 

Winter Festival Tours

You won’t find many tours for these, as the festivals are probably best enjoyed on your own. The best place to enjoy most of these festivals is in Reykjavík, and they can easily be explored on foot, by car, or by local public transportation. Check the festival website or local papers for the events happening during your visit.

16. Tasting the Local Food & Drink

If you are excited to try out local foods, you definitely need to get yourself on a food tour while you’re in Iceland! Icelandic food is not all about  hákarl (fermented shark, a national dish) and there are also delicious seafood and lamb dishes, flat breads, geothermally grown vegetables, and much more to try. Also check the dates for the annual Food and Fun festival , which is the country’s largest food festival that takes place each winter in Reykjavík.  

Food Tour Day Trips by Car

In terms of food, Iceland is known for a lot of things from shark and lamb to langoustine and salt to fresh berries and skyr .

There are so many things you might want to include on a self-drive food tour such as hot dogs in Reykjavík, vegetables grown at one of the countries geothermal greenhouses (some have attached cafés or restaurants), langoustine soup in Stokkseyri, hákarl at the Shark Museum , fresh skyr or ice cream from Efstidalur II , rye bread from a geothermal bakery at Fontana , and plokkfiskur (a mashed fish soup) which is a traditional staple that can be found at restaurants around the country. You can also purchase a lot of local food products to take home such as sea salt, berry jams, meat jerky, and herbal teas.

To get a sense of the wide range of food from traditional home cooking to the latest innovative  dishes, you’ll want to stop at some of the  farm to table restaurants that dot the countryside as well as the more refined restaurants of Reykjavík.

Note that several restaurants in Reykjavík offer a traditional Icelandic food menu if you are looking for more adventurous Iceland food items (e.g., fermented shark, sheep’s head, whale, horse).  If you are in Reykjavík, you can read some reviews online and put together your own walking tour of some of the best sounding food stops in the city. That way you can burn off some calories in between stops!

Food Tours from Reykjavík

If you are looking for a guided food tour, one excellent option is the Golden Circle food tour , which includes the classic Golden Circle day tour stops plus visits to a local farm, meals, and lots of tastings of local products throughout the day.

In Reykjavik, you might want to try this food walking tour to try some of the cities specialities. If you’d prefer to learn the art of Icelandic cooking, you can also take a cooking class in Reykjavík . This includes a hands on cooking experience, followed by a three-course meal.

It’s not all food either. Iceland has a burgeoning craft beer scene, and you can pair food and beer together on the excellent Beer and Booze tour, which includes ten different beers!

17. Mountain Safaris

Looking for a fun way to enjoy the mountains during the winter without having to hike, ski, or don snowshoes?  Consider heading out on an ATV, a mountain buggy, or even getting a great view of the mountains from above in a helicopter.

Mountain Safari Tours 

I don’t know of any places renting quad bikes or mountain buggies in Iceland, so you’ll probably need to join a tour if you want to do one of these activities. Several companies offer ATV rides, for example you can take a scenic quad biking  tour from Reykjavík. Or if you’d rather see Iceland from above, you can do a helicopter tour which includes the mountainous areas around Reyjkavik!

18. Relaxing in Hot Springs

There is nothing quite like slipping into one of Iceland’s geothermally heated hot springs or swimming pools in the cold winter months! Most hot springs and public pools in Iceland are open year round, so it is easy to add a hot spring to your itinerary.

These range from the world famous Blue Lagoon to the local public baths to lesser known springs away from Reykjavík. Treating yourself to at least one is a must when visiting Iceland in winter!

Iceland’s Hot Springs by Car

Many people want to go to the Blue Lagoon , which given its popularity, we totally understand and it is about a 23 minute car ride from Keflavik airport or a 45 minute drive from downtown Reykjavík. If you want to go to the Blue Lagoon, you must pre-book a timed appointment. See our Blue Lagoon guide for lots of tips for visiting.

If you are looking for a nice alternative to the Blue Lagoon we’d recommend checking out spots like the Secret Lagoon or  Myvatn Nature baths . Both are popular and scenic but less crowded and less expensive than the Blue Lagoon. Of course there are hundreds of geothermal hot springs, swimming pools, and spas in Iceland and here is a good list if you are wanting to visit a number of them on a road trip.

If you are looking for a local experience, I’d join locals at one of the public swimming pools, which generally include a geothermally heated large lap pool, hot tubs of varying temperatures, and a kiddie pool. You’ll find over a dozen of these in Reykjavík alone, plus one in about every Icelandic town of any size. Most popular with locals before and after typical work hours, we found our visits very relaxed in the afternoon. If you are planning to hit the lesser known spots and pubic pools, you’ll want to bring your own towel and any gear as these will not be provided and may not be available to rent or buy on site.

Note that you should never just jump into an unknown hot spring or pool you come across while hiking as some are hot enough to boil an egg, and the water temperature can change rapidly in some spots!

Iceland Hot Spring Tours

The Blue Lagoon can be booked as an easy day trip from Reykjavík with regular shuttle bus departures from the airport and downtown. You can book your Blue Lagoon time slot online here (must have a pre-booked time to visit) and then book a corresponding transfer. You can  book a shuttle here .

You can also book day tours from Reykjavík that include a stop at a thermal bath or swimming pool along with a day of other activities. For the Blue Lagoon, we recommend checking out this list of tours that include a number of day trips to the Blue Lagoon, such as this day tour that includes stops at the main Golden Circle sites, Kerid Crater, and the Blue Lagoon.

If you are looking for a less busy alternative to the Blue Lagoon, there are many tours from Reykjavík that include alternative hot springs as well. For example, geothermal bath stops can be combined with Golden Circle tours (such as this tour ), a  Super Jeep tour of the southern highlands, or while searching for the northern lights . This jam-packed full day tour includes the classic Golden Circle Tour, a stop at a geothermal pool, and lunch at a local Icelandic food stop!

So there are our favorite things to do in Iceland in winter! As you can see, there’s plenty to do in Iceland in winter, so don’t let the shorter days and colder weather put you off.

For more information and advice on planning your trip to Iceland we’d recommend checking out our Iceland trip planning tips , our recommended  7 day winter Iceland itinerary , our guide to 3 days in Iceland , our Iceland winter driving tips , our winter Iceland packing list , and photography highlights guide. Iceland can be an expensive destination and we recommend checking out our tips for traveling to Iceland on a budget . 

Have you visited Iceland in winter, or would you like to? Which of these winter activities would you like to do? Let us know in the comments below!

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John Post author

December 27, 2023 at 7:17 pm

What time is most of the limited sunlight in the winter

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

December 27, 2023 at 7:54 pm

Normally the sun rises in the morning and sets in the late afternoon or early evening during the winter in Iceland. This obviously changes a lot each month and the time changes a little each day. December has the shortest days and then they get longer as the winter goes on. So for example if traveling in January, on January 20th, the sunrise is 10:43am and sunset is 4:34pm, but you would still be able to see for a period before and after this during the twilight period. But it does get dark early during the winter so you do want to take the limited sunlight and day lenths into account when planning your travels, particularly for outdoor activities (also good to note if you want to avoid driving in the dark).

Hope that helps and do let us know if you have any further questions as you plan your trip to Iceland!

Best, Jessica

December 27, 2023 at 7:16 pm

Are there visitor sites set up to view the volcano? We are traveling in a few weeks to Iceland for a few days.

December 27, 2023 at 7:43 pm

The latest volcanic eruption at Sundhnúkagígar started on December 18th and as an update on December 21st said “there is no discernible volcanic activity in the eruption fissures”.

The latest from the tourism website is that he eruption is best viewed online with a live feed on the media sites mbl.is and ruv.is or from viewing sites from the towns of Reykjanesbær and Vogar. The best way to see it is probably from a helicopter and I think a couple of companies are doing helicopters tours that go over this volcanic site.

But currently there is really nothing to see based on recent live coverage and the area around there is not deemed safe to actually visit that area. the Met office notes that there is still a lot of seismic activity and there could be new fissures opening or another eruptions in the coming days/weeks. So you can check the live footage once in Iceland to see if there is anything to see (and currently viewing areas if any), but if there is another eruption you can normally view it from fairly far away but it will depend on what happens between now and your trip. But as of now, I don’t think there is much to see online or at the viewing sites.

But luckily for travelers, the eruption at Sundhnúkagígar has not interfered with air traffic or most travel plans for visitors except for the closure of roads around the village of Grindavík and the Blue Lagoon area. Currently the Blue Lagoon is closed but it may open in a few days, so will likely reopen by the time of your trip if there is no furter eruptions and it is deemed safe. If it is closed during your visit and you want another geothermal spa in that are, you might want to book tickets for the Sky Lagoon .

Hope that helps! Jessica

January 14, 2024 at 5:37 pm

UPDATE: As of January 14th, there was another volcanic eruption near Hagafell mountain and there is currently seismic activity and lava flow in the area. The Blue Lagoon has closed again out of caution for at least a few days and sadly lava is now flowing into the village of Grindavik, causing destruction there. Be sure to check latest updates once your trip starts.

lindsey rim Post author

March 9, 2020 at 1:55 pm

For being such a small country, both geographically and in terms of population size, Iceland has an incredible amount of activities that no visitor should miss! Fortunately, the country’s size also lends itself to being fairly navigable in a short amount of time, even with some essential activities requiring getting out into the wild.

March 10, 2020 at 10:51 am

Hi Lindsey, Indeed, it does pack a lot of punch, especially with natural attractions like waterfalls, beaches, glaciers, geysers, etc. It also has a lot of great activity options and museums and cultural activities. In just the 7 days you can see a lot in a relatively short amount of time because Iceland is fairly compact and lots of things are just off the main highway. If you are planning your trip, just let us know and happy to answer any questions.

Noon Post author

January 8, 2020 at 7:18 am

Love this and love how you write! Will be visiting in Feb – can’t wait!

January 8, 2020 at 10:02 am

Hi Noon, Glad you are enjoying our Iceland articles, and just let us know if you have any questions as you prepare for your trip! Happy travels, Jessica

Leonardo Pissinali Post author

September 10, 2019 at 1:37 am

Nice site with tips of things to do in Iceland

Laurence Post author

September 11, 2019 at 9:55 am

Glad you enjoyed it Leonardo. Wishing you a great trip to Iceland, Jessica

James Post author

April 21, 2019 at 3:03 am

Hi Laurence and Jessica. I love those winter activities in Iceland. It seems both of you are professional. I read many your blogs I really love the way you share your own experiences. My friends and i will keep this blog to be a guide to visit Iceland. Now, I already prepare a jacket for winter – I can say I’m ready for winter trip. Thanks for your sharing.

April 21, 2019 at 3:06 am

Hi James, Sounds like you are already getting prepared for next winter in Iceland! Just let us know if you have any questions and for winter gear, you can see our winter packing list to help with that as well. Best, Jessica

Lauren Post author

March 7, 2019 at 9:47 am

I wasn’t quite brave enough to visit Iceland in winter, but it looks like a spectacular place no matter what season. I love all your ideas of what to do when winter hits! Snowmobiling across Iceland’s landscape would be truly incredible.

March 8, 2019 at 5:46 am

Hi Lauren, Glad you enjoyed reading about our winter adventures in Iceland. Yes, you do need to brave the cold and weather in Iceland in winter, but it is a lot of fun and there are some beautiful winter landscapes then. Best, Jessica

Jon Post author

October 23, 2018 at 11:56 pm

I live in Iceland! You note so many of the wonderful thing to do here in winter, but not just a good place in winter. Reykjavik and Iceland are filled with lots of things to do such as museums like the beautiful attractions like great outdoors, day trips, Midnight Sun and the Northern Lights, eco tourism, volcanoes, mountains, lakes, glaciers, rivers, caves, black beaches and so much more.

October 26, 2018 at 3:39 am

Hi Jon, Thanks for taking the time to comment. Yes, there are so many things to do in Winter in Iceland but also lots to do the rest of the year as well! A beautiful country 😉 Best, Jessica

Stella Gough Post author

September 1, 2018 at 4:02 am

Nice and informative article on things to do in winter in Iceland. So many activities! Thanks for sharing it.

September 1, 2018 at 5:21 am

Hi Stella, Glad you enjoy the article and do let us know if you have any questions about winter activities while planning your trip to Iceland in winter! Best, Jessica

Laura Lynch Post author

January 4, 2018 at 1:31 am

We visited Iceland a few years ago for our first time in the winter. I thought it was going to be impossible to get around to all the awesome things, but it wasn’t. We did come across a blizzard or two and a few road closures, but it didn’t stop us from having a fantastic time.

January 4, 2018 at 10:58 am

Hi Laura, Thanks for sharing your experience driving in Iceland in winter! Yes, the weather can be tricky for driving which is why a guided tour can be a great option for those who do not wish to drive, particularly in the winter months. Glad you still had a fantastic time! Best, Jessica

Kelly Dunning Post author

January 3, 2018 at 12:26 pm

Iceland has been on my bucket list for a long time, but I had always thought that I should visit it in summer. However, after reading this I am considering visiting during winter. I think celebrating Christmas and New Years there would be so magical. I would love to take one of the Golden Circle Tours that you mentioned and to visit the ice caves. Whale watching would also be an incredible experience. I see you tasted the fermented shark – what was it like?

January 3, 2018 at 5:30 pm

Hi Kelly, It is a difficult choice whether to visit Iceland in the summer or winter as both have their pros and cons. If you have the chance, I’d do both, maybe the summer first and then return in the winter to focus on the winter activities and holidays. Whale watching in general is best in summer but as noted there are a pod of orcas that have been spotted the last several years only in winter which would be amazing to see (we sadly have not)! Yes, the fermented shark is an acquired taste and to be blunt I thought it was disgusting. On first bite it was OK, and then the taste grew and got much worse! It smells a bit like ammonia as well. However, there was an Icelandic man in the museum who was eating the samples like they were candy so to each their own! Most Icelandic people I think rarely eat shark but for some it is a delicacy. Best, Jessica

Jessica Post author

January 2, 2018 at 9:21 pm

Wow, this was a really helpful and comprehensive post! I had no idea skiing was a thing in Iceland and I definitely didn’t know snorkeling was! I am going to Sweden in search of the Northern Lights in a couple weeks and I am going to use some of your Iceland tips! I think they will translate well! Thanks!

January 3, 2018 at 9:51 am

Hi Jessica, Yes, I don’t think a lot of people know about all the things you can do in Iceland in winter (or other times of the year). Iceland is not really seen as a skiing destination yet by most but there are definitely a lot of opportunities. Snorkeling is year-round and the water stays about the same temp, and is always cold but still. Enjoy your trip to Sweden and I agree, many of these tips should indeed transfer. We also have a winter guide to Finland that may be even more similar in terms of activities! Best, Jessica

Yasha Post author

January 1, 2018 at 1:21 pm

Wow – what a lot of recommendations for things to do in Iceland in winter. There is only one problem – it’s so cold in winter… Ice tunnels, ice caves and glaciers look lovely, but you do look like you need many layers of clothing to visit them. Your photos are just amazing and I admit to being very tempted by the sights, the food and the experiences you outline in this post. It looks as if it is a truly unique place – no wonder it’s one of the most popular destinations at the moment.

January 3, 2018 at 12:10 pm

Hi Yasha, Yes, there are loads of things to do in Iceland during winter! It is actually not as cold as you might think, nothing compared to our visits to places like Canada and Finland. The ice caves and tunnels stay about the same temperature year-round so many of them you can visit them year-round (weather dependent of course) and the temperatures vary only by a few degrees year round! You do need to bring warm winter clothing, but we did not need to bring any special winter clothing that we did not already own from living in Scotland 😉 Definitely cold if you are from a warm weather location but not as cold as most people imagine I think. Hope you get a chance to visit Iceland!! Best, Jessica

Marcelle Post author

December 30, 2017 at 1:22 pm

It’s so funny, these two horses, the one with the white mane and grey fur and the fox red one, look like my horses. It’s a dream of mine to visit Iceland in winter time and of course, at least with a day tour on Icelandic horses. I’d love to see the Northern Light, too. It must be like a fairytale come true!

December 30, 2017 at 3:03 pm

Hi Marcelle, Yes, those horses are beautiful so you are lucky to have horses that look like them! There are many farms in Iceland offers tours and horse rides of various durations so that would be a great thing to do when you visit Iceland. Icelandic horse tours are offered year round but come between November and March for best chances to see the Northern Lights! Best, Jessica

Eric Gamble Post author

December 28, 2017 at 1:21 pm

I went to Iceland several years ago at the beginning of March and the end of their winter and absolutely loved it. I went hiking (via car rental) throughout the entire southern part. The only thing I wish I had done was those cave tubes you guys did. How amazing was that?

I loved all the waterfalls, rock formations, and several geothermal pools that are out there. I think if I get a chance to return, I would love to go back in Summer to see it not blanketed in white to see all the beautiful colors hidden beneath the snow!

December 30, 2017 at 1:23 pm

Hi Eric, Sounds like you had a great time and yes the ice tunnels or caves are great places to explore on your next trip. If you enjoy hiking, the best time is definitely the summer when more of the trails would be accessible and you get to see the colors. Hope you get a chance to return!! Best, Jessica

Edoardo Post author

December 27, 2017 at 4:01 am

Dear Laurence and Jessica Norah, thank you for posting your blog post about Iceland winter trips. I always desired to visit Iceland as an independent traveler, and sharing your experience helped me a lot to understand better how to organize myself. The inspirational experience you did are very interesting, so I think I will do something of similar. All the best and happy new year 🙂

December 27, 2017 at 7:11 am

Hi Edoardo, Glad you found our Iceland winter activities post helpful! You might also like our 7 day Iceland itinerary and our Iceland planning posts! Let us know if you have any questions as you plan your own trip to Iceland. Wishing you a wonderful New Year as well!

Happy travels, Jessica

Divya V Post author

December 27, 2017 at 2:00 am

Iceland has been on my winter bucket list for a while now, I hope I take a trip here next year :D. I would wholly watch the northern lights 🙂 and I have heard so much about the Ice Caves! So many great things to do in Iceland in winter time!

December 27, 2017 at 7:08 am

Hi Divya, Hope you get a chance to get to Iceland in 2018! The Northern Lights and ice caves are both definitely worth seeing, but there are also a lot of other things to do in Iceland to keep you busy 😉 Jessica

Leigh Post author

December 23, 2017 at 1:48 pm

I spent 1 night in Reykjavik this summer on a layover, and my next trip will definitely be a winter trip! I only had time for a food tour and the Blue Lagoon, but there is obviously so much to see, and the Northern Lights are a big draw for me!

December 27, 2017 at 7:14 am

Hi Leigh, Yes, 1 night is definitely not very much time to see much of Iceland but glad you got to see a couple of things. Seeing Iceland in winter is definitely becoming more popular but there are a lot of advantages of visiting in summer too (especially if you like hiking, mountains, seabirds, etc.). Hope you get a chance to return! Best, Jessica

Medha Post author

December 22, 2017 at 10:53 pm

Thank you for this comprehensive guide on all the activities possible in Iceland in winter. I am planning my trip in October next year mostly because I want to see the Northen Lights but I struggled in my decision to visit during summer vs winter because I want to make sure I am able to do all the activities and visit all the places. It seems from your guide above that almost all the good stuff is still doable and accessible during winter so I guess it’s not that bad to travel in October 🙂

December 23, 2017 at 8:22 am

Hi Medha, Glad the article was helpful! Yes, like most destinations with seasonal weather, there are going to be trade-offs and different experiences available no matter when you visit. I think most people visit during the summer on a first trip and then maybe come back for winter. We are planning to do it the other way around. But no matter when you go, you can still see many of the main spots in Iceland, although in winter we recommend focusing on the west and south (the area most people visit on a first trip to Iceland any time of the year).

In October, which is autumn, you’ll probably be there too early for some of the winter activities that require a lot of snow like skiing, snowshoeing, & dog sledding but you’ll be able to explore ice caves & ice tunnels, go ice skating, and go snowmobiling during that time of year. Northern Lights can certainly be seen in October (I’d recommend later in October for more dark hours) but it always just depends on the solar activity and weather! During the autumn months, Iceland has its annual international film festival and indie music festival if either of those are of interest. No matter when you visit, I am sure you’ll have fun and best of luck on seeing the Northern Lights!

Seana Turner Post author

December 20, 2017 at 11:43 am

I have to admit I am not much of a cold weather person, but those ice tunnels are pretty cool. I don’t think you could talk me into snorkeling, even with a dry suit, but I would love seeing those horses and the thermal baths. I’m sure the geysers are also amazing, as I loved being in Yellowstone and watching them. Reindeer trekking also sounds fun. I’ve never thought about going to Iceland before, but maybe… it looks more fun in these photos than I would have imagined!

December 20, 2017 at 1:58 pm

Hi Seana! Yes, not everyone is a cold weather travel person. Iceland is not as cold as some may imagine, even in winter, but it is still cold. I agree with you on the snorkeling/diving though! There is a lot to do in Iceland in the winter, but if you want to avoid the cold weather, I’d recommend visiting Iceland in the late Spring to early autumn. There is even more to do then and there are greater opportunities for hiking and spotting wildlife. We loved our winter trip earlier this year, and are tentatively planning to return again next year in late Spring or early Summer! Best, Jessica

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

25 Bucket List Things To Do in Iceland in Winter

August 8, 2021 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

There are so many amazing things to do in Iceland in winter, and you should not be intimidated to visit this beautiful country during this seemingly harsh season. If you are prepared, you can have a safe and once-in-a-lifetime trip.

In winter, Iceland becomes a magical, snowy wonderland. Though the daylight is shortened, the chance to see the Northern Lights dazzle across the night sky makes this a bucket list winter destination.

You can still easily see all of the classic South Iceland attractions in the winter as well as sites in other regions. However, driving might be more difficult since some roads are closed and you will need a 4×4 vehicle to bypass the snow and mud.

If you are brave enough to venture into Iceland in winter, then you can expect fewer crowds, cheaper rentals, and more dynamic, epic landscapes.

Get a FREE printable “Hidden Gems In Iceland” E-book by joining our private  Iceland Facebook Group  and share your photos and ask for tips and tricks.

Search for the Northern Lights

One of the most popular things to do in Iceland in winter is view the incredible Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis. Witnessing this natural phenomenon is on the top of many people’s bucket lists. Luckily, Iceland is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights!

Even if you come to Iceland in winter, you are not 100% guaranteed to see the Northern Lights. You need the right conditions. First, you need to be in Iceland from late August to mid-April. March and September are known to be the best times.

Then, you need to start your search late at night, when it is the darkest, preferably from 9:30 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. Lastly, you need super clear skies for the lights to be visible. Usually, it is best to get out of town.

If you want an easier time experiencing the Northern Lights, consider booking a specialized tour. Here are some of our recommendations !

Warm Up in the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is probably the most famous hot spring in Iceland since it is so big, beautiful, and near Reykjavik . The iconic, milky blue water is full of silica, which is great for your skin.

Come to the Blue Lagoon after a day of exploring Iceland in the cold winter weather so you can relax and warm up. The water is heated by an underground volcano which keeps the water at an awesome 102 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.

The Blue Lagoon is a great experience in winter since there will be fewer tourists and the hot water is more appreciated.

Make sure to check out our Detailed Winter In Iceland Travel Itinerary!

Photograph the Epic Godafoss Waterfall

Godafoss Waterfall is one of the best waterfalls in Iceland , and it is even more epic in the winter. It is found in North Iceland and will get covered in snow, but since it is so near the Ring Road , it is still usually accessible.

But, always check road closures before you head out, just in case of bad weather. Keep in mind that only one parking lot is open in the winter on the east side of the river.

Since this Iceland attraction is so popular, the main trail is cleared of snow to help tourists. Even so, you need to be careful not to slip on ice. You might want to bring spikes for your shoes. Hike the two-mile loop trail carefully to stay safe.

Find the Solheimasandur Plane Wreck

Visiting the Solheimasandur plane wreck has become immensely popular due to social media. It is a really unique thing to do in Iceland no matter the season. This famous site is found off the Ring Road on the south coast.

You can hike to the Solheimasandur plane wreck in winter, but it will be more difficult than in the summer. It is best to do this trip on a day where it is clear and the weather is good. Low visibility could mean losing track of the route. Make sure to dress warmly, since it will be very windy. Also, wear waterproof shoes.

The hike is about five miles roundtrip and will take a couple of hours to complete. Make sure you time your journey right so you do not get caught in the dark unless your goal is to find the Northern Lights hanging overhead.

Take a Glacier Tour

You can’t go to Iceland in winter and not take a glacier tour . This is one of the most unique hikes to do in Iceland in winter. You will find many epic glaciers in Iceland, including the largest in Europe, Vatnajokull.

It is impossible to set out onto the glaciers by yourself. You need to book a guided tour to be safe. Luckily, there are a ton of options with different prices and lengths. Here are some of our top choices .

Many of the tours include transportation from Reykjavik too so you do not need to worry about driving. Make sure you come prepared with warm clothes and proper shoes. Glaciers can be a dangerous place, but that only heightens the excitement and sense of adventure.

Book Here: Skaftafell: 5 Hour Glacier Hike Adventure

Go On a Snowmobile Adventure

If you do not feel like tiring yourself out on a glacier hike, then you can take a snowmobile tour instead. This is a thrilling way to see glaciers as well as other natural attractions.

Snowmobiling is a great group activity if you are traveling to Iceland with friends. You will all have fun zooming over the snow. Even if you have never snowmobiled before, your guide will give you a lesson before you start.

Come prepared by wearing a good, windproof coat and something to keep your hands warm. You do not want to get frostbite. The provided helmets will protect your face from the wind. Here are some of our winter packing suggestions .

Book Here: Glacier Snowmobiling on Langjokull Glacier

Hike To Svartifoss Waterfall

Svartifoss Waterfall in Vatnajokull National Park in the southeast is another awesome Iceland waterfall to check out in the winter. This 80-foot waterfall is surrounded by basalt columns that become coated with dangling icicles. The waterfall partially freezes as well, creating an amazing landscape.

To get to Svartifoss Waterfall, you need to hike about three miles roundtrip. The scenic hike will take you past three other, smaller waterfalls so this is really one of the best winter hikes in Iceland.

Again, the route might be slick, so bring spikes and be cautious. The snow might make you move slower and make the hike take longer, so wear layers and make sure to pack plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Try Ice Caving

Ice caves are another incredibly beautiful Iceland landscape you only get to enjoy in the winter. These caves can be explored from the end of October through to March. If you love breathtaking and magical nature, then you need to add this activity to your Iceland winter itinerary.

The ice caves are formed under glaciers and are usually a gorgeous blue. If you are a photographer, this is the type of place you dream about.

Like hiking on top of the glaciers, you will need to book a tour to see the inside of an ice cave. The caves break apart in the spring, so you need to make sure to see them in the winter when you can. This definitely tops the list of best things to do in Iceland in winter since it is so seasonal.

Book Here: Húsafell: Langjökulll Glacier Ice Cave Tour

Discover Skogafoss Waterfall

Another waterfall to visit in Iceland in the winter is Skogafoss Waterfall . Found in the southern region of the country, this is one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland.

This magnificent waterfall is located just off the Ring Road and is only a short walk from the parking lot. Because of this, it is one of the most accessible things to do in Iceland in winter. The area around it will be covered in snow and ice, but the powerful, 197-foot waterfall does not freeze.

Usually, you can walk right up to the base of the waterfall, and while you can still do this in the winter, you need to be extra careful since the fall’s spray turns the ground to ice. If it happens to be sunny when you visit, you will catch sight of the waterfall’s iconic rainbow.

Hike Through Thingvellir National Park

Another activity to add to your winter Iceland itinerary is hiking in Thingvellir National Park . This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best national parks the country has to offer.

This area of Iceland is made up of mountains, lakes, and even forests. It will all look like a classic, winter wonderland when it is covered in snow. You can also find the ruins of historic buildings.

On an interesting geological note, this park is where the North American and European tectonic plates meet. You can go snorkeling between the plates, even in winter, though it will be much colder than in the summer.

Walk Down Reynisfjara Beach

Reynisfjara Beach is one of the best black sand beaches in Iceland . When you visit in the winter, the sand becomes mixed with ice, making the beach shimmer.

This is a great place to witness the power of the ocean. The crashing waves are a sight to behold. Just be careful not to get too close. You do not want to swim, not just because of the cold, but because of the dangerous rip currents.

You can walk along this amazing beach and pose for pictures in front of the towering basalt columns. Make sure to dress warmly and be prepared for the wind.

Spend the Night In Vik

Reynisfjara is right next to the small, charming town of Vik . You can explore the town during the day or even stay the night . This is one of the best towns on the south coast since it is so cute and near many cool landscapes.

When you visit Iceland in winter, Vik becomes coated in snow like a storybook village. It is so quaint and picturesque you will not believe your eyes.

The town is overlooked by the Víkurkirkja Church. In the evening, this snow-dusted church will look like a Thomas Kinkade painting with the town lit up below. You cannot get more idyllic than that!

Soak in the Hrunalaug Hot Springs

Hrunalaug Hot Springs is another one of the best hot springs to visit in Iceland in winter. This is not your typical spring since there are three different options for soaking! There is a super hot pool, a medium pool, and a colder pool.

Please respect the landowner and pay the small fee as well as throw away your trash!

Visiting this hot spring in the winter means fewer crowds. You will have more privacy when you change, but be prepared for a chilly wind as you do so! Don’t forget to check out our Tips For Hrunalaug Hot Springs!

Be Awed by Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss means “golden waterfall” but if you visit in the winter, it will be very white. This waterfall is one of the most popular stops on the Golden Circle route, especially since it is only about an hour and a half from Reykjavik.

The road to Gullfoss Waterfall is well maintained in the winter so you should have no trouble driving there. However, some of the viewpoints are closed during the winter. Keep this in mind because you might not get the views you were expecting.

You can still enjoy the view from the Gullfoss Visitor Center. There are also steps down to a lower viewpoint, but it can be icy. The air here is especially cold because of the spray from the falls so wear appropriate clothing.

Watch Strokkur Blast Off

Strokkur is an awesome site to add to your Iceland winter itinerary. This gushing geothermal feature is found on the Golden Circle not far from Gullfoss Waterfall. This phenomenal geyser is so fun since you never know exactly when it will shoot off. Every four to ten minutes, Strokkur will erupt about fifty feet into the air.

After standing out in the cold to watch Strokkur erupt a couple of times, you can retreat to the Geysir Center to warm up with a meal at the restaurant, shop for souvenirs, or refill your snack supply. There is also a Geysir museum and hotel here.

Strokkur is also near Geysir, the oldest recorded geyser in the world and the source of the word “geyser.” Unfortunately, Geysir is now inactive.

Pet Some Icelandic Horses

You cannot come to Iceland and not find yourself gushing over the cute Icelandic horses. These fuzzy creatures are super curious and friendly, so it is not hard to convince them to cuddle.

Don’t forget to check out our list of the best horse riding tours in Iceland!

You can find these small horses roaming all over Iceland, even in the winter. You can bribe them to come closer with an apple or carrot, but don’t climb fences to trespass on private property.

Depending on the month you visit and the weather, you can even go on a horse-backing riding tour with these beautiful animals. Or you can visit a stable and learn more about them.

Book Here: Reykjavik: Red Lava Horse Riding Tour

Book Here: Fridheimar: Icelandic Horse Stable Visit

Find Awesome Ice Pieces at Diamond Beach

Another cool black sand beach to visit in Iceland in winter is Diamond Beach. This south coast attraction gets its name from the glittering chunks of ice found on its shore. In winter, there are usually more and larger pieces of ice.

This is such a unique place to walk around and take pictures. Come at sunrise or sunset to photograph the light and colors shining through glass-like ice.

Diamond Beach is the type of place people imagine when they think of Iceland. There are not many places in the world where you can find a beach like this, so take advantage of it when you can.

Watch Glaciers at Jokulsarlon

The ice pieces at Diamond Beach come from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon which is right across the street. You can visit both on the same day. These are two of the best things to do in Iceland in winter and should not be skipped.

In winter, there are more icebergs dotting the water, creating a peaceful atmosphere that is only disrupted when they break. You can find seals basking in the sun. At night, it is possible to see the Northern Lights.

You will miss out on the summer boat tours, but you get the luxury of fewer tourists. You could possibly have the place to yourself. This is a great area to soak in nature and the raw beauty of glaciers.

Explore Reykjavik

The capital city of Reykjavik is magical in winter when the neat rows of colorful houses are iced in white. There are so many things to do in Reykjavik in winter. Check out the restaurants, shops, and art and history museums.

Make sure to take a photo with the Sun Voyager Sculpture. Walk the streets to find cool wall murals.

Head to the top of the imposing Hallgrímskirkja Church to find amazing panoramic views of the city nestled along the ocean. This modern-looking church is also lit up at night, making a great foreground for a photo of the Northern Lights , which sometimes grace Reykjavik with its presence.

Enjoy the View of Bruarfoss Waterfall

Bruarfoss Waterfall is known for its vivid, blue color created by the Langjokull glacier which feds it. This Iceland attraction is only about twenty minutes from Gullfoss, so you can visit both waterfalls on the same day as you travel the Golden Circle. Make sure to put “Bruarfoss Waterfall official parking” into your GPS to find the right trailhead.

This natural wonder is still a bit of a hidden gem in Iceland so in winter especially you are likely to have the place all to yourself. The hike will take you about an hour each way, and it is fairly level and easy. In the winter, it can get muddy though.

Once you make it to Bruarfoss Waterfall, you will be amazed by the unearthly, blue water. The color will pop against the white snow.

Admire Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall on the south coast is another of Iceland’s most popular waterfalls. Since this eye-catching, 200-foot water feature is right off the Ring Road it is easy to get to even in the winter. From the parking lot, it is only a short walk to the falls.

Usually, you can walk behind this waterfall as well. But in the winter, this path is closed because it is too icy and there is the chance of ice falling from the cave above.

Even so, this is one of the best things to do in Iceland in winter. The waterfall is stunning in the colder months, surrounded by snow and dangling icicles. You will want to snap some photos posing in front of it.

Photograph the Budir Church

Budakirkja, or Budir Church, is one of the prettiest churches in Iceland . This scenic building is surrounded by open fields on the Snaefellsness peninsula.

This is a great photography destination since it is so remote, and the church stands out so well against the sweeping landscape. In winter, the black color of the church adds amazing contrast against the pure, white snow.

Even if you are not a photographer, this is a beautiful place to visit in Iceland in the winter. It is a short drive from Route 54 near the ocean.

Fall in Love With Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall

One of the most iconic, postcard-worthy images of Iceland involves Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall with Mount Kirkjufell standing tall in the background. If you want to see this amazing sight in person, then you need to come to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula on the west coast.

You only need to walk about ten minutes to get to the viewpoint to see this incredible scene. In winter, there will be a great expanse of snow. Parts of the waterfall and river may freeze to create cool ice formations.

If you are able to visit this remote location at night, make sure to bring your tripod and multiple camera batteries because this is a great place to see the Northern Lights if the sky is clear. Can you imagine how beautiful that would be?!

Wander Around the Stokksnes Peninsula

Another peninsula, this time on the east coast , you need to visit in the winter is Stokksnes Peninsula. To get onto Stokksnes Beach, you will need to pay a small fee since it is private land, but it is 100% worth it. This black sand beach is what Iceland dreams are made of!

From the beach, you can see the incredible Vestrahorn Mountain. In winter, it will be snowcapped and look like the setting of an epic fantasy movie.

This is another excellent place to see the Northern Lights too. This is where the mountains meet the sea, and it really can’t get more photogenic than that.

Find Yourself in Seydisfjordur

Seydisfjordur is an adorable town in the eastern region of Iceland. In winter, this small town is almost deserted of tourists, so you will feel as if you have the entire place to yourself. It will be a quiet and peaceful place to relax.

This fishing village is on a beautiful fjord. Though it is a little harder to get to in the winter, it is worth it to see its iconic, blue church decked out in the snow.

Make sure to visit pretty Gufufoss Waterfall just a few minutes from town. There is also a ski resort nearby if you want to spend some time on the slopes.

If you were not sure about visiting Iceland in winter before, you have hopefully changed your mind. Iceland offers beautiful and unique landscapes and activities no matter the time of year, but winter adds a level of adventure and magic. There are so many awesome things to do in Iceland in winter, you will not be disappointed.

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Wander With Alex

Wonders of the Far North: Incredible Arctic Destinations

Posted: November 14, 2023 | Last updated: February 5, 2024

The Arctic Circle is located at the top of the Earth and is an impressive place to adventure if you love scenic landscapes and winter activities. If you cherish exploring untouched wilderness landscapes, the Arctic is full of icy terrain, massive glaciers, and wide open spaces.

Around mid-June, there is approximately one day or more when the sun remains continuously above the horizon, and there’s a time around mid-December when the sun does not rise for a day or more.

The average temperatures in the Arctic Circle vary depending on the location and the time of year. However, average temperatures are usually around -30 degrees Fahrenheit or lower in winter. Summer temperatures range from 30 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Arctic Circle is the most northern circle of latitude on Earth. It’s located at about 66 degrees 30 feet north. Countries included in the Arctic Circle include Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia, the United States (parts of Alaska), Canada, Denmark (via Greenland), and Iceland.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, is a small village about 125 miles north of the Arctic Circle. Jukkasjärvi is known for its stunning display of the Aurora Borealis, its rich Sami cultural heritage, and its breathtaking Arctic wilderness that offers a range of outdoor activities.

Visitors often come to experience the breathtaking Northern Lights and partake in winter activities such as dog sledding and snowmobiling through the pristine wilderness. Summer offers the midnight sun, river rafting on the Torne River, and a chance to learn about the indigenous Sami culture. Jukkasjärvi is also famous for its ICEHOTEL , which is sculpted from ice blocks each winter. 

December offers a classic winter experience featuring temperatures ranging from 8 to 18°F. For those who want to avoid the deepest cold but still enjoy the unique offerings of Jukkasjärvi, the shoulder seasons of mid-April to May and September to mid-October might be ideal.

Tromsø, Norway

Known as the "Gateway to the Arctic," Tromsø, Norway, is the perfect destination for explorers looking to start their Arctic adventures and is about 220 miles north of the Arctic Circle. Many people venture to Tromsø for hunting, fishing, and seeing the Northern Lights.

Whether you prefer taking in scenic views from Mount Storsteinen via cable car or exploring the stunning Arctic Cathedral, Tromsø offers a wealth of attractions during the winter months, including Northern Lights, dog sledding through snowy landscapes, and whale watching in the fjords.

One of the best times to visit Tromsø is during the autumn months of September and October. This is a great time to catch the Northern Lights without the extremely negative temperatures that come in the dead of winter. The temperature usually ranges from the mid-30s to low 50s °F, but be sure to pack your rain jacket as there is considerable rainfall during this period.

Reykjavík, Iceland

Arguably, one of the most famous Arctic Circle destinations is the capital city of Reykjavík, Iceland, which is situated about 200 miles south of the Arctic Circle. It has risen in popularity over the years mainly because of its beautiful Northern Lights, abundance of museums, and lively nightlife.

Some of the best winter activities to try while visiting Reykjavík include skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and glacier hiking.  After you have finished a morning of adventures, there is no better way to relax and take in the extraordinary scenery than by relaxing in the nearby geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon. 

If you are looking for the best time to visit Iceland during the winter months to enjoy winter sports and activities, February is a great time to explore Reykjavík. It offers excellent opportunities to witness the enchanting Northern Lights, and the Winter Festival of Lights typically occurs during this month. Anticipate temperatures ranging from the upper 20s to the upper 30s °F during this period.

Rovaniemi, Finland

Rovaniemi, Finland, the official home of Santa Claus, is a remarkable city located about 5 miles south of the Arctic Circle. It is famous for its Santa Claus Village, where visitors can visit Santa every day of the year. This festive village is full of shops, restaurants, cafes, and activities for everyone to enjoy. Experience the most popular adventures, such as dog sledding and reindeer rides. For a more exhilarating option, consider opting for a snowmobile tour.

The ideal time for a Rovaniemi visit is in December, with its iconic Santa Claus village and the opportunity to meet Santa himself during the prime Christmas season. Despite being the busiest time to visit, the magical atmosphere makes it worthwhile. Make sure to dress warmly; with temperatures ranging from 10 to 25°F, you will want to stay toasty while exploring this picturesque holiday town.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks, Alaska’s second-largest city, is known for its stunning Northern Lights displays. The city is a captivating destination for those seeking unspoiled natural beauty within the United States and is about 200 miles south of the Arctic Circle.

Known as the Golden Heart of Alaska, Fairbanks has a deep history tied to the gold rush and has an immense Native American culture. It’s an excellent choice for U.S. citizens looking to see the Northern Lights without traveling to another country. It is also a gateway for visitors who journey to Denali National Park.

In the winter, indulge in dog sledding, Aurora viewing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing.  If you would like to learn more about the Native American culture, check out the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitor Center , where you can discover more about Alaska’s cultural roots.

The prime time to visit is during November for great views of the Northern Lights and to catch some good fish while ice fishing. The weather typically ranges from -5 to 10°F, so pack plenty of warm layers.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife is the capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories and is located about 250 miles south of the Arctic Circle. This old mining city is popular for its Northern Lights and indigenous culture. During the winter, there are a handful of winter activities to embark on besides viewing the vibrant Northern Lights, including ice fishing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, and snow tubing. Visiting the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre is a must for those interested in indigenous culture. 

The optimal time to explore Yellowknife for winter activities is in November, offering the opportunity to witness the beautiful Northern Lights and experience relatively mild weather, with temperatures usually between 5 and 20°F. 

Nuuk, Greenland

Nuuk is the capital of Greenland and is famous for its brightly painted houses on the waterfront. It’s situated about 150 miles south of the Arctic Circle.  This small city is known for its beautiful waterfalls, Inuit culture, icebergs, and outdoor adventure. Some of the best winter activities to embark on include snowshoeing, viewing the Northern Lights, and glacier hiking. 

The best time to visit for winter activities and aurora sightings are late September and November. Within this period, the temperatures generally range from the upper 20s to the mid-40s°F.  

Murmansk, Russia

The large city of Murmansk is famous for being a starting point for many Arctic adventures, with numerous fishing journeys setting sail from here. This city is 125 miles north of the Arctic Circle and is popular for its gorgeous Northern Lights displays, and January is one of the best months to witness them. 

January is a fantastic time to visit Murmansk, not only because of the Northern Lights but also because of the Snegoled Festival. This incredible celebration is centered around massive and intricate ice sculptures and is a must-see event when visiting during the winter season. During this timeframe, you can expect temperatures to range between 10 and 20°F. 

Beyond experiencing the Northern Lights and the ice sculpture festival, visitors can participate in snow tubing and skiing activities. Another popular attraction to check out while visiting the area is the Lenin Icebreaker.

Your Arctic Vacation Awaits

Vacationing in or near the Arctic Circle offers an escape into a world of stark, haunting beauty where the sun barely rises in the deep winter. It's a place where the aurora borealis dances across star-filled skies, and the landscape is a sprawling canvas of ice, snow, and rugged mountains. The Arctic Circle is not just a destination; it's an adventure into some of the planet's most awe-inspiring natural wonders, a test of the human spirit against the elements, and an unforgettable journey into the wild.

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