Are you dreaming a few winter wonderland filled with journey and unforgettable experiences? Properly, pack your warmest garments as a result of Iceland in winter is precisely that—a magical, frosty paradise that’s simply ready to be explored.
I spent an exhilarating two weeks in Iceland on the onset of winter and, belief me, it’s a season like no different, providing distinctive actions that you just can’t discover at some other time of the 12 months.
From the celestial dance of the Northern Lights to the frosty attraction of its wintry landscapes, Iceland provides a treasure trove of winter wonders which are positive to make your journey greater than memorable. So, for those who’re itching to plan your personal icy escapade, listed here are the highest 13 issues to do in Iceland this winter!
When is winter in Iceland?
Earlier than we dive into the enjoyable stuff, let’s set the scene. Winter in Iceland spans from November to March, however for those who’re aiming for the deepest chill and probably the most genuine snowy expertise, December by February is your greatest wager.
That is the very best time for any actions that contain snow, like snowboarding or canine sledding. Throughout these months, the times could also be brief, however they’re fantastically crisp and infrequently sunny, illuminating the snowy landscapes in a surreal gentle.
What’s Iceland like in Winter?
Consider winter in Iceland as this unimaginable mixture of twilight vibes and comfy moments. You may anticipate it to be actually chilly, however truly, Reykjavik is fairly delicate—round 0 levels Celsius—hotter than loads of locations in North America throughout winter! However, for those who wander out of the town, it does get a bit nippier.
Right here’s one thing wild: in winter, the times get actually brief, with just some hours of daylight across the winter solstice, December twenty first. It’s just like the summer time’s unending daylight does a complete flip! However, this darkness is your golden ticket to catching the Northern Lights in all their glory, lighting up the sky in methods that can make your coronary heart skip a beat.
And because the temperatures fall, the glaciers get larger and bolder—severely, they’re a sight to behold. Regardless of the chilly and the darkish, winter right here isn’t nearly huddling indoors; it’s about getting on the market and having some enjoyable with the weather. From charging throughout glaciers to zipping round on snowmobiles, it’s all about that thrill.
And whenever you’re finished? Coming again to a comfy hearth and a steaming mug of one thing tasty is nearly the very best feeling ever. Winter in Iceland is that this good package deal of frosty adventures and heat moments indoors.
Prime 13 Winter Actions in Iceland
1. See the Northern Lights
Catching the Northern Lights in Iceland is a high winter spotlight. For the very best expertise, head out on a transparent, chilly evening away from the town lights. Þingvellir Nationwide Park is a well-liked spot, however for a guided expertise, decide a tour that may take you to much less crowded, optimum viewing places.
I like to recommend the Aurora Borealis Tour. They’ve educated guides who provide nice recommendations on how you can {photograph} the auroras so you possibly can take dwelling your recollections and promise to take you out till you see the lights.
2. Have a good time Christmas and New Years
In Reykjavik, from late November till early January, the town sparkles with festive lights and bustling Christmas markets. These markets are good for selecting up distinctive Icelandic crafts and indulging in conventional vacation treats like kleinur and heat glögg.
The Christmas markets typically begin round November twentieth and run till December twenty third, making the town a festive hotspot for over a month. Key places embrace Ingólfstorg Sq. in downtown Reykjavik and the Previous Harbour space, that are decked out in vacation décor and stuffed with native distributors.
For New Yr’s Eve, Reykjavik is the place to be. Icelanders gentle up the sky with spectacular fireworks, with the festivities peaking at midnight however beginning as early as 8 PM when households start their non-public shows.
For a novel expertise, take a New Yr’s Eve Fireworks Cruise for a magical view of the fireworks over the bay and an important get together sprinkled with champagne.
3. Climb a Glacier and go to an ice cave
Prepared for an actual winter thrill? Strap in your crampons and be part of a glacier climbing and ice cave tour. These adventures are good from November to March when Iceland’s icy landscapes are at their most beautiful and steady.
Take a look at the Glacier Journey Tour for the very best hike up the superb Vatnajökull or Sólheimajökull glaciers. You’ll additionally duck right into a cool ice cave to see these unreal blue ice formations. To not be missed!
Plus, many of those adventures throw in a snowmobile experience, cranking up the enjoyable issue. It’s not only a stroll within the park—it’s an opportunity to zip throughout glaciers and get your adrenaline pumping. This can be a actual bucket-list sort of day in Iceland’s winter wonderland!
4. See the Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is a must-see route in Iceland, particularly within the winter when the landscapes are coated in snow, giving it an additional magical contact. This fashionable loop connects three of Iceland’s most well-known sights: Þingvellir Nationwide Park, the good Geysir, and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall.
At Þingvellir, you possibly can wander by the park the place the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling aside—an epic sight! Subsequent, at Geysir, watch in awe because the Strokkur geyser shoots sizzling water as much as 30 meters within the air each couple of minutes. Lastly, Gullfoss, or ‘Golden Falls’, will take your breath away with its highly effective icy cascades.
You may simply drive the Golden Circle your self; the roads are well-maintained, however be sure you lease a automobile with good winter tires. Should you choose a guided tour, take a look at the Golden Circle Full Day Tour. It stops on the Secret Lagoon, a geothermal lagoon that isn’t as crowded because the Blue Lagoon and provides a extra genuine expertise.
Hitting the Golden Circle in winter permits you to see these pure wonders in a complete new gentle—actually, with the low-lying solar creating beautiful lighting for pictures. Plus, it’s a bit quieter than in summer time, so you possibly can benefit from the magnificence with out the large crowds.
5. Go to Icy Lagoons and Waterfalls alongside the South Coast
The South Coast of Iceland is the place you’ll discover a number of the nation’s most breathtaking winter surroundings—suppose icy lagoons and frozen waterfalls that seem like they’ve jumped straight out of a fairy story.
First up, the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a must-see. It’s stuffed with enormous, shimmering icebergs which have damaged off from a close-by glacier. Should you’re fortunate, you may even spot some seals lounging on the ice! Simply close by, you possibly can stroll alongside Diamond Seaside, the place ice chunks from the lagoon wash up on the black sand, glowing like diamonds below the winter solar.
Don’t miss the waterfalls both. Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss are particularly beautiful in winter. They’re typically frozen into icicles, and different instances flowing sturdy in opposition to the snow-covered backdrop- I cherished this!
Driving alongside the South Coast is simple, however the roads can get slippery, so watch out. Should you’re not up for driving, take a look at the South Coast Full Day Tour, you’ll love visiting the websites without having to emphasize about driving.
6. Calm down within the Sizzling Springs and Geothermal swimming pools
Relax and heat up on the identical time by soaking in one in all Iceland’s well-known sizzling springs or geothermal swimming pools. Whether or not you’re searching for luxurious or one thing extra low-key, there’s a spot for you.
Don’t miss the Blue Lagoon, most likely probably the most well-known of all of them, with its milky blue waters and spa companies. For a much less touristy vibe, attempt the Secret Lagoon or the Hvammsvik Sizzling Springs, the place you possibly can get pleasure from pure settings and fewer crowds.
Every spot provides a novel strategy to unwind after a day of adventures. This was my favourite winter exercise in Iceland: simply think about soaking in heat, mineral-rich waters with a cool breeze round you and snowflakes falling gently—simply unimaginable!
If you wish to get to some completely different spots with out the effort of driving, look right into a sizzling springs tour. This tour contains transportation and guides you to a wonderful hidden thermal pool.
7. Watch the Wildlife: Whales and reindeer and seals, oh my!
Winter is a unbelievable time for wildlife recognizing in Iceland. Head out on a whale-watching tour to see these majestic creatures breaching within the icy waters. Húsavík and Reykjavík are fashionable spots for these excursions, and also you may catch glimpses of humpbacks, minkes, and even orcas!
On land, preserve your eyes peeled for reindeer, particularly in East Iceland. They’re extra seen in the course of the winter, roaming freely of their pure habitat. Alongside the coast, seals can typically be noticed lounging on the ice or taking part in within the water. Puffins are summer time guests although, so that you gained’t see any in the course of the winter months
8. Go Diving
Dive into a complete new world beneath the floor at Silfra Fissure, the place you possibly can swim between two tectonic plates! Though North American lakes are extraordinarily clear, they don’t come near the water in Silfra since it’s a number of the clearest on the planet. This spot in Þingvellir Nationwide Park provides a really distinctive diving expertise, with chilly however extremely clear waters which have over 100 meters of visibility.
For these searching for one thing completely different, take a look at Davíðsgjá, typically known as “Silfra’s massive brother.” It provides the same however much less crowded diving expertise. Each spots are nice for adventurous spirits trying to discover underwater wonders in crystal-clear, chilly water.
Ensure you’re comfy with chilly water diving, as temperatures are simply above freezing. Most excursions, like these supplied by Dive.is, present all the required gear and steering.
9. Go to Reykjavik
No journey to Iceland in winter is full with out spending a while in Reykjavik, its charming capital. This metropolis comes alive in winter with a cool mixture of tradition, historical past, and trendy Icelandic vibes. Stroll alongside the snowy streets, take a look at the quirky outlets, and don’t miss the beautiful structure of the Harpa Live performance Corridor and the enduring Hallgrímskirkja church.
For a style of native tradition, pop into one of many many museums or galleries, or simply cozy up in a café with a sizzling drink and watch the world go by. Reykjavik can also be well-known for its vibrant nightlife, in order the solar units early, the enjoyable begins—good for rounding off your day with some dwell music or sampling Icelandic brews at an area bar.
Attempt Bravo, my favourite place for comfortable hour with nice native beers, or Pablo Discobar for the good ambiance and the very best cocktails!
Getting round is straightforward, too, as most sights are inside strolling distance of the town middle. For a deeper dive into what Reykjavik has to supply, attempt a free strolling tour that may present you hidden gems and inform tales solely locals know.
10. Go Snowboarding or Snowboarding
Iceland may not be the primary place you consider for snowboarding or snowboarding as a result of there’s a lot else to see and do, nevertheless it’s a hidden gem with some unbelievable slopes. The resorts listed here are much less crowded than in lots of different nations, providing a extra relaxed and intimate expertise within the snow.
Take a look at the slopes at Bláfjöll and Skálafell, simply exterior Reykjavik, that are good for a day journey. Should you’re venturing additional, attempt the resorts in North Iceland, like Hlíðarfjall close to Akureyri, identified for its wonderful situations and beautiful views.
Whether or not you’re a newbie or a seasoned professional, you’ll discover runs to fit your expertise. And nothing beats the expertise of snowboarding with the Northern Lights overhead for those who time your runs good within the night.
Many resorts provide gear rental and classes, so don’t fear for those who didn’t pack your gear. Simply present up, gear up, and benefit from the pristine Icelandic snow below your skis or board!
11. Go Icelandic horseback using or canine sledding!
Need to get actually into the Icelandic spirit? In North America, rodeos are all the trend, however in Iceland, you’ll wish to attempt horseback using or canine sledding.
Icelandic Horseback Using: The Icelandic horse isn’t simply lovely; it’s additionally very sturdy and strikes like no different breed. For a enjoyable experience, take a look at this Horse Using Tour. They’re only a brief hop from Reykjavik and are nice for riders of all expertise. They provide scenic routes and pleasant, well-cared-for horses.
Canine Sledding: Prepared for a bit extra velocity? For one thing out of Reykjavik, attempt a tour with Dogsledding Iceland. Snow Canine will take you on an epic canine sledding journey up north round Akureyri. The guides are wonderful, and take time to point out you how you can deal with your sled and deal with the huskies proper. Plus, the joys of whooshing by the snow with a crew of canine is one thing you simply can’t miss.
Each of those experiences are extremely fashionable with youngsters and also you’ll love the old-school attraction.
12. Go on a Street Journey across the Ring Street
The Ring Street, or Route 1, encircles virtually all of Iceland, serving up a number of the most jaw-dropping sights you’ll ever see from a automobile window. Winter turns the panorama right into a snowy spectacle, the place mountains, waterfalls, and coastal views get a surprising frosty makeover.
The full loop is about 1,332 kilometers and usually takes a few week to finish if you wish to do it justice. Alongside the best way, you’ll cross by quaint villages, see heaps of frozen waterfalls, and certain spot some wildlife.
For an epic Icelandic highway journey, lease a 4×4—important for winter driving in Iceland—and take your time exploring. Key stops embrace Vatnajökull Nationwide Park for its huge glacier, the East Fjords for his or her dramatic cliffs, and Myvatn for its geothermal wonders.
No tour is required right here, only a good car, some adventurous buddies, and a playlist stuffed with your favourite tunes. Make certain to test highway situations incessantly, as winter climate will be unpredictable. How typically do you get to say you drove round a whole nation within the snow?
13. Be a part of a Winter Competition
Iceland doesn’t simply sit back within the winter—it events! The nation is legendary for its full of life winter festivals, which gentle up the lengthy, darkish months with a great deal of enjoyable and tradition.
- Þorrablót: This conventional Icelandic midwinter competition is to not be missed. It’s a feast that includes a few of Iceland’s most unusual dishes (suppose fermented shark and smoked lamb). Þorrablót is steeped in Viking historical past and an effective way to dive deep into outdated Icelandic tradition whereas warming up with the locals.
- Winter Lights Competition: Held in Reykjavík in February, this competition brightens up the town with beautiful gentle installations and performances. It’s a celebration of each the winter world and the approaching spring, and it’s tremendous family-friendly.
- Reykjavík Meals and Enjoyable Competition: Should you’re a foodie, this one’s for you. Prime cooks from around the globe come to Reykjavík to whip up dishes utilizing Icelandic substances, competing to see who does it greatest. It’s a scrumptious strategy to spend a day (or three!).
- Annual Icelandic Beer Competition: Do you know that beer was banned in Iceland for over 70 years? Have a good time Iceland’s burgeoning craft beer scene in late February. This competition in Reykjavík options native and worldwide brews, with loads of tastings and full of life discussions with brewers.
- AK Excessive: A snowboarding competition held in Akureyri in March, that includes some wild stunts and music. It’s a blast for those who love snow sports activities and get together vibes.
- Design March: For one thing a bit extra artsy in April, take a look at Design March. Icelandic and worldwide designers showcase their newest work, from trend to furnishings, making it an important spot to see cutting-edge Nordic design.
What to put on in Iceland in Winter?
Dressing for Icelandic winters means layering up! Begin with a thermal base layer—suppose wool or artificial supplies that preserve moisture away out of your pores and skin. Add a fleece or wool mid-layer for insulation, and high it off with a water-proof and windproof jacket.
Ideally, your jacket has a zipper below every arm so you possibly can cool off for those who get too heat since eradicating garments isn’t straightforward throughout your exercise. Don’t neglect your legs; waterproof pants are a should.
On your ft, heat, waterproof boots are important, ideally with grip for icy situations. Wool socks will assist preserve your toes toasty. Equipment are key, so deliver alongside a heat hat, mitts, and a shawl to guard in opposition to the nippiness. In case your fingers and toes are feeling the nippiness, pocket heaters are the very best factor to slide into your boots or your mitts.
With the correct clothes, you’ll be well-prepared to get pleasure from all of the out of doors adventures and beautiful surroundings Iceland has to supply, with out letting the chilly put a damper in your enjoyable!
What’s driving like in Iceland in Winter?
Anticipate icy roads, snow, and typically restricted visibility resulting from snowstorms or brief sunlight hours. Roads, particularly in rural areas, will be slippery and a few may be closed resulting from harsh climate situations.
It’s important to lease a automobile geared up with winter tires and to test the climate and highway situations frequently at vedur.is and highway.is. All the time drive cautiously, cut back your velocity, and permit further time to succeed in your locations.
Ask about chains to your tires, and contemplate renting a 4×4 car for higher traction and security. Lastly, be sure you’re comfy with winter driving methods to manage skidding in addition to depart further automobile lengths between your automobile and the subsequent to forestall fender benders.
What number of days ought to I spend in Iceland in winter?
The best size of your keep in Iceland throughout winter depends upon what you wish to see and do. Usually, per week is an efficient period of time to discover the principle sights with out feeling rushed. This offers you adequate days to regulate to the chilly and sunlight hours, and to journey at a relaxed tempo.
With per week, you possibly can comfortably cowl the Golden Circle, spend a few days in Reykjavik, discover the South Coast’s icy sights, and nonetheless have time for actions just like the Northern Lights hunts, sizzling springs, and perhaps a competition or two.
Should you’re up for an even bigger journey, like cruising across the Ring Street, you may wish to stretch it to 2 weeks. That manner, you possibly can take it gradual, make loads of image stops, and actually soak in these icy landscapes.
Is Iceland very costly?
Sure, Iceland is thought for being on the pricier aspect, particularly in relation to eating out, lodging, and actions. Nonetheless, with some sensible planning, you possibly can handle your funds and nonetheless have a unbelievable journey.
Should you’re on a funds, preserve a watch out for package deal offers on flights and lodging, cook dinner your personal meals, and do not forget that experiencing Iceland’s pure magnificence—like its waterfalls, seashores, and mountaineering trails—is free!
Issues to Do in Iceland in Winter: The Wrap-Up
Seize your gloves and prepare for the journey of a lifetime! With these high 13 issues to do, your Icelandic winter journey will likely be nothing wanting epic. Iceland’s frosty attraction is ready to be found, and there’s no higher time to discover than now.
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Mary Rowland runs Wandering Michigan Wisconsin