Reykjavik in Winter + Travel Tips

WHAT TO DO IN WINTER IN REYKJAVIK

Wondering about the best things to do in Reykjavik in the winter? Then this post is for you – here you will find out about the best activities along with many travel tips.

Iceland is a real winter wonderland – though it is not a typical winter sports destination, there is still plenty to do and see. Iceland´s capital – Reykjavik in winter is also a great place to visit. 

During winter, Iceland transforms into a magical expanse of icy terrains and captivating northern lights. As daylight dwindles, snow adorns its geysers, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes, casting a frosty spell over the island. Amid the wintry embrace, the island’s inviting geothermal springs present a striking contrast, merging fire and ice in the Arctic’s core.

Reykjavik is a great place to base yourself. From there you can easily do some fun day trips and explore other parts of the country. So, plan some time for Iceland´s main city and check out these unique things to do in Reykjavik in winter. 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means I might earn a small commission when you buy a product/service via my link (at no extra cost to you). More about it here.

TIPS FOR VISITING REYKJAVIK IN WINTER

This post is about what to do in Reykjavik in winter – including some travel tips for your trip.

Weather in Reykjavik in Winter

Reykjavik in winter is not perfection. I actually struggled quite a bit. Especially the weather was a problem for me – and I do not mean that it was cold. Reykjavik is quite rainy in the winter months. I stayed 12 nights in Reykjavik and it rained on – probably – 6 or 7 out of 12 days. So, keep that in mind.

Apart from the rain, winter in Reykjavik is not as bad as you might think. Temperatures are similar to Central Europe – often ranging between 3° / -2° degrees Celsius. Not too old, I´d say. Snow in Reykjavik is common, though it doesn’t stay for long. To experience winter wonderland, I highly suggest doing a few day trips from Reykjavik.

Also, the days are extremely short in the winter months. You only have 4-5 hours of daylight. This was my main problem with visiting Reykjavik in winter. It is not really weather related but I still want to mention it here. Thus, the best time to visit Reykjavik in the winter months would be November, February, and early March – then you have the real winter season, yet days are not as short as in December or January. 

How to Get Around in Winter

• Public transportation in Reykjavik is okay. It is just okay if you want to use it for a few stops. I used it a few times to get around but mostly I walked to most attractions. 
• Though public transportation is not great, you can explore many places via guided tours. If you book guided tours, you normally will be picked up from your hotel or from a pick-up station near your hotel. This means you can relax and let others do the driving.
• So, renting a car is not essential for the winter months. However, if you rent a car in you can quite easily get around – at least in Reykjavik. Driving in Reykjavik in winter is better than driving in other parts of Iceland. Be aware that driving can be quite tricky and dangerous if you are not used to these bad weather conditions with a lot of snow and ice (especially in the Northern parts or in the Highlands).

• A warm, waterproof jacket should be one of the first items you think to pack. Avoid choosing a bulky jacket that takes up a lot of space. This can make you feel uncomfortable when you have layers underneath. Instead, opt for a lightweight trench raincoat that will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable. 
• A knitted beanie is a perfect solution for keeping the warmth in while you venture out. A hat will keep you toasty warm wherever you are.
• A pair of gloves can do wonders for your mobility and comfort. When selecting your options, it’s worth investing in a pair that can dry quickly and are touch-screen compatible.
• A warm scarf and/or turtleneck sweater are key items for keeping your neck covered. A turtleneck sweater is perfect as a garment to wear underneath your jacket, while the scarf can be removed easily. 
• Leggings are an essential item to pack as you can dress them up or down. You can even wear them underneath your denim as an extra layer of warmth. 
• When it comes to packing socks for your Iceland trip – the thicker, the better. The chances are that you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors in the snow, and you’ll want your feet to be warm and cozy. 
• My favorite winter clothes are thermals. A quality set of thermals is your key to enjoying the winter weather in Iceland. You have to wear them on a cold day to believe what a wonderful invention it is!
• Make sure you have a trusty pair of waterproof snowshoes. You’ll want your shoes to be as versatile as possible. Snowshoes allow you to enjoy a variety of activities while keeping your feet warm and dry. 
• I bought my crampons in Iceland. They are traction devices you attach to your shoes so you can walk even on ice. If you want to walk and see places from different angles, you will need crampons. They were lifesavers, and while I fell many times on my first day, I didn’t fall after I got them (and only got to see other people falling). 
• For a complete Iceland packing list for winter, click here.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN REYKJAVIK IN WINTER

It is time to talk about the best things to do in Reykjavik in winter – check out what to do in late November December, January, February, and even March.

Experience Flyover Iceland

Let´s start with one of my favorite winter activities in Reykjavik. Flyover Iceland is so much more than a 4D movie. It’s a passion project that celebrates the unique beauty of Iceland and its history. 

In the simulation, you’ll fly over Iceland’s mountainous landscape and rough coastline, feeling the wind in your hair, and the twists and turns. It was designed to feel like mankind’s greatest dream fulfilled; to feel like you’re flying. With over 200 hours of aerial videography and years of work put into it, I’d say it was successful! 

You’ll also learn about how Iceland was formed, its long history, and Icelandic culture. So not only is it a great deal of fun – but you’ll also go away with a much better understanding of your surroundings and the Icelandic people.

It was one of my most favorite activities – it made me feel happy. I was excited and fell in love before I had seen much of Iceland in real life. However, some other people I talked to criticized the short movie and the quite high price. The “flight” is just 10 minutes – the rest of the time you´ll watch short movies and get some information. Not really spectacular – but the flight was great! For me, it was worth the money.

Also, this is the perfect thing to do on a very cold day in Reykjavik in winter as it is indoors (once you book your tickets, email them and agree on a time slot). Check out prices and more here.

Marvel at Hallgrímskirkja Church

A trip to Reykjavik would be incomplete without a visit to its most recognizable building – Hallgrimskirkja Church.

This Lutheran parish church is one of the tallest buildings in the whole country. It’s striking and unusual, totally different from churches you’ll find anywhere else in the world.  The church has a truly massive organ and an austerely beautiful interior. Be sure to venture in for the full experience, and admire the immense effort put into this structure.

From here, you also have some of the best views in Reykjavik from the church tower.

• Entry to the church is free.
• To get to the church tower, there is an entry fee of 1000 ISK (around 7€/$7). You can buy the tickets at the church. No worries, you do not have to climb all the stairs up but can take an elevator to enjoy the scenic views.
• Opening hours: 1st September 2023 – 30th April 2024: Church: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Tower: 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (last entrance to tower)

Bathe in Geothermal Pools

Iceland in December and the winter months can be daunting. But the locals have been making it comfortable for a long time now. The country is famous for its geothermal pools. These warm outdoor pools have long since been a large part of the culture in Reykjavik. Particularly in winter when the water contrasts so strongly with the frigid air. You’ll even find locals chatting away in a rainstorm.

Geothermal pools are fed by underground hot springs. You can laze in the naturally warm waters of the main pool, before tiptoeing across to the hot tubs to luxuriate in even warmer conditions.  

When you visit, be sure to follow etiquette, and shower with soap before getting into the water. This helps them keep the pools clean with minimal chlorine. And feel free to hop into a sauna before or after your swim, to really round out the experience. No matter the weather around you, you’ll feel snug for hours after leaving the pools. 

• Sky Lagoon is such a geothermal pool. It is about 7 kilometers south of downtown Reykjavík – check out ticket prices here.

See the Iconic Northern Lights

Because Reykjavik is a city, it has more light pollution than the Icelandic countryside. This means you’ll see the aurora more vibrantly far outside the city, where the Northern Lights is the only thing brightening the sky.

If you’re lucky, you don’t even need to leave Reykjavik to catch a glimpse of the iconically beautiful Northern Lights. If the aurora is active and the sky is clear, you should be able to see it.

If you’re trying to spot the Northern Lights within the city, head down to the coast. There’s less light pollution in this part of the city, and no buildings obstructing your view. You can simply stroll along the coast and admire the fantastical display.

HOWEVER, it is better to leave the city for better views. A Northern Light Tour is the way to go for the highest chances to see this natural phenomenon, as the tour companies know the best places to see them.

Alternatively, you can set sail on a 2-hour boat tour off the coast.

Even though I stayed in Iceland for about 12 nights in winter, I did not get to see the Northern Lights. Neither in Reykjavik nor when I did Northern Lights tours as they do not appear that often. I just got to see a glimpse of it but it was not what I expected or hoped for.

You can take a half-day tour from Reykjavik for a better chance for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Visit Harpa Center

One of the best things to do during Reykjavik’s winter months is to see a performance at Harpa. 

This unique landmark is a concert hall where you’ll see some of Iceland’s top musical performances. It is also a massive sculpture reflecting everything around it – including the gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains and ocean.

 Even if there are no performances during your visit to Reykjavik, Harpa Center is well worth a visit. One alternative option is to enjoy a meal at one of the Harpa restaurants, where the center’s innovation is applied to Icelandic ingredients and exciting cuisine. 

Spot Street Art

The streets of Reykjavik are full of impressive social and political commentary, as well as just fun art. The Old Harbor area boasts some of the city’s best work. You can also find some street art in the town center.

Spend a few daylight hours (between about 10 am and 4 pm) strolling through the streets and spotting as many of the artworks as you can. It’s like an outdoor museum, full of exhibitions and open to interpretation.

Go Ice Skating on Tjörnin

Ice skating on lake Tjörnin is a Reykjavik tradition. It’s referred to as a pond by the locals because it’s so shallow. Thankfully, this means the water quickly freezes over in winter and can be safely enjoyed throughout the season.

If you’re not really into ice skating (read: keep falling on your butt every time you try), it’s still a lovely place to spend a few hours. You can watch locals and foreigners gliding on the ice, and even see an ice hockey or football match. 

Unfortunately, there are not any ice skate rentals around the pond, as it’s geared towards locals. So you’ll have to either bring along your own skates, or take to the ice in your boots for a clumsy but fun time. 

Reykjavik also has some indoor skating rinks, where you can actually rent out ice skates. Some favorites are Egilshöll and Ice Rink Laugardalur.

See the Stars at the Perlan Planetarium

Reykjavik’s Perlan Planetarium is another fun experience. This world-class planetarium allows you to “witness the Northern Lights” and Iceland’s other wonders. All while snug and warm in the city.

The Perlan Planetarium show runs every hour and is thankfully in English. So you’ll have an opportunity to learn about the science behind the aurora borealis and much much more while you’re awed by the beauty.

You can also explore a man-made indoor ice cave and enjoy a 360° panorama of Reykjavík from the viewing deck.

I enjoyed the Perlan Planetarium a lot (though FlyOver Iceland was my highlight) – especially because I “got to see the Northern Lights”. I actually met a few people who said, this was their favorite indoor activity in Reykjavik.

• Check out tickets for Perlan here.

Taste Reykjavik’s cuisine

Reykjavik combines traditional cuisine with modern twists and global fusions. Icelandic food is famous for being pure, with natural ingredients, often locally sourced.

While they’re well-known for many of their meat dishes, you’ll find the city surprisingly vegan-friendly. I really was in vegan heaven – who would have thought?

A recent cultural and ideological shift has made veganism popular among younger Icelanders. This shift means you’ll find some fantastic, creative food, from noodle soup and vegan burgers to gazpacho.

Visit the cafe Ecstasy’s Heart-Garden for some tasty vegan and vegetarian treats, or splurge on fine dining at Burro.  

Explore the National Museum of Iceland

Leave the chill outside chill for a few hours and head into Iceland’s National Museum. You’ll learn about the country’s fascinating history, from Viking settlements to contemporary civilization. The museum hosts some wonderful historic artifacts and medieval engravings.

You can stroll through the exhibitions, and marvel at the strength and perseverance of a culture that developed here, long before aircon made the chill more manageable!

• Just a note: the museum is closed on Mondays during winter, so plan your itinerary accordingly.

Go on an Icelandic Horseriding Tour

Icelandic horses are they are not as gracious as Arabic horses but these chubby little animals are one of a kind.

Icelandic horses are short and stocky, with long shaggy hair. They’re a great joy to ride for all ages. But more excitingly, the area around Reykjavik is an incredible place to explore on horseback.

Spend a few hours riding through lava fields and along the startling green (or white) hillside. It’s one of the best things to do in Iceland, and totally unique to the country.  In addition to the actual riding, horseback riding tours include rubber boots, helmets, rainwear or warm clothes if needed, and a guide. You can even request transport there if you’d prefer.

I am allergic to horses, so I stay away from them, but Icelandic horses are really iconic!

New Year´s Eve in Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the perfect destination to spend an unforgettable New Year’s Eve. I was lucky enough to celebrate NYE in Reykjavik from 2019/2020 and I can tell you: the locals know to celebrate into the new year,

Every year, thousands of people flock to Reykjavik to experience the city’s vast array of activities and festivities that make celebrating the new year a unique experience.

Spend your evening listening to live music from local bands or take part in the many parties that Iceland’s capital has to offer. For those looking for something a little more traditional, head to Hallgrímskirkja and take part in the carol singing at midnight.

With picturesque views of the ocean and cityscape, this is sure to be an unforgettable New Year’s Eve. Don’t forget to wrap up warm as temperatures can often drop below freezing! 

Blue Lagoon

While the Blue Lagoon isn’t situated in Reykjavik’s city center, it’s a popular excursion from the capital of Iceland – especially in the winter months. Experiencing the Blue Lagoon’s enchantment is a unique treat, especially in winter, when its soothing warmth offers a delightful contrast to the brisk cold outside.

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The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most iconic geothermal spas, nestled amidst lava fields near Grindavík on the Reykjanes Peninsula. This man-made lagoon is renowned for its milky-blue, mineral-rich waters, which are believed to possess therapeutic properties.

The water’s unique composition includes silica, algae, and minerals, sourced from 2,000 meters below the surface. Maintaining a year-round temperature between 37-40°C (98-104°F), the lagoon offers a rejuvenating experience against the backdrop of the rugged Icelandic terrain. 

CHECK OUT PRICES FOR THE BLUE LAGOON HERE

Do Day Trips

Reykjavik in winter is a beautiful place and as you can see, there are fun things to do in the winter months in and near Reykjavik. However, you really want to get out and see what else Iceland has to offer. Check out my post on the best day trips to take in winter.

PIN ME FOR LATER

Reykjavik in winter offers a unique blend of charm and wonder that sets it apart from typical European city destinations. While it might not be the quintessential winter city on many lists, its distinctive allure lies in its stunning natural beauty and plethora of engaging activities.

From the ethereal dance of the Northern Lights to cozy cafes serving local delicacies, there’s much to discover. The city’s blend of modern architecture and historical sites, combined with the surrounding snowy landscapes, crafts a captivating tableau.

If Reykjavik is on your travel itinerary, you’re in for a memorable treat. Dive into the rich Icelandic culture, explore its hidden gems, and immerse yourself in its wintry magic.

Safe travels and relish every moment!

What to Pack For Your Reykjavik Winter Vacation

Your Iceland – or Reykjavik winter packing list should be the following versatile, essential items. Using these items to dress in layers will keep you both stylish and warm. 

Keep in mind, that Reykjavik gets cold but if you do day trips outside of Reykjavik, then it might get reaaaally cold. Thus dressing in layers is always my top recommendation.

• A warm, waterproof jacket should be one of the first items you think to pack. Avoid choosing a bulky jacket that takes up a lot of space. This can make you feel uncomfortable when you have layers underneath. Instead, opt for a lightweight trench raincoat that will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable. 
• A knitted beanie is a perfect solution for keeping the warmth in while you venture out. A hat will keep you toasty warm wherever you are.
• A pair of gloves can do wonders for your mobility and comfort. When selecting your options, it’s worth investing in a pair that can dry quickly and are touch-screen compatible.
• A warm scarf and/or turtleneck sweater are key items for keeping your neck covered. A turtleneck sweater is perfect as a garment to wear underneath your jacket, while the scarf can be removed easily. 
• Leggings are an essential item to pack as you can dress them up or down. You can even wear them underneath your denim as an extra layer of warmth. 
• When it comes to packing socks for your Iceland trip – the thicker, the better. The chances are that you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors in the snow, and you’ll want your feet to be warm and cozy. 
• My favorite winter clothes are thermals. A quality set of thermals is your key to enjoying the winter weather in Iceland. You have to wear them on a cold day to believe what a wonderful invention it is!
• Make sure you have a trusty pair of waterproof snowshoes. You’ll want your shoes to be as versatile as possible. Snowshoes allow you to enjoy a variety of activities while keeping your feet warm and dry. 
• I bought my crampons in Iceland. They are traction devices you attach to your shoes so you can walk even on ice. If you want to walk and see places from different angles, you will need crampons. They were lifesavers, and while I fell many times on my first day, I didn’t fall after I got them (and only got to see other people falling). 
• For a complete Iceland packing list for winter, click here.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN REYKJAVIK IN WINTER

It is time to talk about the best things to do in Reykjavik in winter – check out what to do in late November December, January, February, and even March.

Experience Flyover Iceland

Let´s start with one of my favorite winter activities in Reykjavik. Flyover Iceland is so much more than a 4D movie. It’s a passion project that celebrates the unique beauty of Iceland and its history. 

In the simulation, you’ll fly over Iceland’s mountainous landscape and rough coastline, feeling the wind in your hair, and the twists and turns. It was designed to feel like mankind’s greatest dream fulfilled; to feel like you’re flying. With over 200 hours of aerial videography and years of work put into it, I’d say it was successful! 

You’ll also learn about how Iceland was formed, its long history, and Icelandic culture. So not only is it a great deal of fun – but you’ll also go away with a much better understanding of your surroundings and the Icelandic people.

It was one of my most favorite activities – it made me feel happy. I was excited and fell in love before I had seen much of Iceland in real life. However, some other people I talked to criticized the short movie and the quite high price. The “flight” is just 10 minutes – the rest of the time you´ll watch short movies and get some information. Not really spectacular – but the flight was great! For me, it was worth the money.

Also, this is the perfect thing to do on a very cold day in Reykjavik in winter as it is indoors (once you book your tickets, email them and agree on a time slot). Check out prices and more here.

Marvel at Hallgrímskirkja Church

A trip to Reykjavik would be incomplete without a visit to its most recognizable building – Hallgrimskirkja Church.

This Lutheran parish church is one of the tallest buildings in the whole country. It’s striking and unusual, totally different from churches you’ll find anywhere else in the world.  The church has a truly massive organ and an austerely beautiful interior. Be sure to venture in for the full experience, and admire the immense effort put into this structure.

From here, you also have some of the best views in Reykjavik from the church tower.

• Entry to the church is free.
• To get to the church tower, there is an entry fee of 1000 ISK (around 7€/$7). You can buy the tickets at the church. No worries, you do not have to climb all the stairs up but can take an elevator to enjoy the scenic views.
• Opening hours: 1st September 2023 – 30th April 2024: Church: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Tower: 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (last entrance to tower)

Bathe in Geothermal Pools

Iceland in December and the winter months can be daunting. But the locals have been making it comfortable for a long time now. The country is famous for its geothermal pools. These warm outdoor pools have long since been a large part of the culture in Reykjavik. Particularly in winter when the water contrasts so strongly with the frigid air. You’ll even find locals chatting away in a rainstorm.

Geothermal pools are fed by underground hot springs. You can laze in the naturally warm waters of the main pool, before tiptoeing across to the hot tubs to luxuriate in even warmer conditions.  

When you visit, be sure to follow etiquette, and shower with soap before getting into the water. This helps them keep the pools clean with minimal chlorine. And feel free to hop into a sauna before or after your swim, to really round out the experience. No matter the weather around you, you’ll feel snug for hours after leaving the pools. 

• Sky Lagoon is such a geothermal pool. It is about 7 kilometers south of downtown Reykjavík – check out ticket prices here.

See the Iconic Northern Lights

Because Reykjavik is a city, it has more light pollution than the Icelandic countryside. This means you’ll see the aurora more vibrantly far outside the city, where the Northern Lights is the only thing brightening the sky.

If you’re lucky, you don’t even need to leave Reykjavik to catch a glimpse of the iconically beautiful Northern Lights. If the aurora is active and the sky is clear, you should be able to see it.

If you’re trying to spot the Northern Lights within the city, head down to the coast. There’s less light pollution in this part of the city, and no buildings obstructing your view. You can simply stroll along the coast and admire the fantastical display.

HOWEVER, it is better to leave the city for better views. A Northern Light Tour is the way to go for the highest chances to see this natural phenomenon, as the tour companies know the best places to see them.

Alternatively, you can set sail on a 2-hour boat tour off the coast.

Even though I stayed in Iceland for about 12 nights in winter, I did not get to see the Northern Lights. Neither in Reykjavik nor when I did Northern Lights tours as they do not appear that often. I just got to see a glimpse of it but it was not what I expected or hoped for.

You can take a half-day tour from Reykjavik for a better chance for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Visit Harpa Center

One of the best things to do during Reykjavik’s winter months is to see a performance at Harpa. 

This unique landmark is a concert hall where you’ll see some of Iceland’s top musical performances. It is also a massive sculpture reflecting everything around it – including the gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains and ocean.

 Even if there are no performances during your visit to Reykjavik, Harpa Center is well worth a visit. One alternative option is to enjoy a meal at one of the Harpa restaurants, where the center’s innovation is applied to Icelandic ingredients and exciting cuisine. 

Spot Street Art

The streets of Reykjavik are full of impressive social and political commentary, as well as just fun art. The Old Harbor area boasts some of the city’s best work. You can also find some street art in the town center.

Spend a few daylight hours (between about 10 am and 4 pm) strolling through the streets and spotting as many of the artworks as you can. It’s like an outdoor museum, full of exhibitions and open to interpretation.

Go Ice Skating on Tjörnin

Ice skating on lake Tjörnin is a Reykjavik tradition. It’s referred to as a pond by the locals because it’s so shallow. Thankfully, this means the water quickly freezes over in winter and can be safely enjoyed throughout the season.

If you’re not really into ice skating (read: keep falling on your butt every time you try), it’s still a lovely place to spend a few hours. You can watch locals and foreigners gliding on the ice, and even see an ice hockey or football match. 

Unfortunately, there are not any ice skate rentals around the pond, as it’s geared towards locals. So you’ll have to either bring along your own skates, or take to the ice in your boots for a clumsy but fun time. 

Reykjavik also has some indoor skating rinks, where you can actually rent out ice skates. Some favorites are Egilshöll and Ice Rink Laugardalur.

See the Stars at the Perlan Planetarium

Reykjavik’s Perlan Planetarium is another fun experience. This world-class planetarium allows you to “witness the Northern Lights” and Iceland’s other wonders. All while snug and warm in the city.

The Perlan Planetarium show runs every hour and is thankfully in English. So you’ll have an opportunity to learn about the science behind the aurora borealis and much much more while you’re awed by the beauty.

You can also explore a man-made indoor ice cave and enjoy a 360° panorama of Reykjavík from the viewing deck.

I enjoyed the Perlan Planetarium a lot (though FlyOver Iceland was my highlight) – especially because I “got to see the Northern Lights”. I actually met a few people who said, this was their favorite indoor activity in Reykjavik.

• Check out tickets for Perlan here.

Taste Reykjavik’s cuisine

Reykjavik combines traditional cuisine with modern twists and global fusions. Icelandic food is famous for being pure, with natural ingredients, often locally sourced.

While they’re well-known for many of their meat dishes, you’ll find the city surprisingly vegan-friendly. I really was in vegan heaven – who would have thought?

A recent cultural and ideological shift has made veganism popular among younger Icelanders. This shift means you’ll find some fantastic, creative food, from noodle soup and vegan burgers to gazpacho.

Visit the cafe Ecstasy’s Heart-Garden for some tasty vegan and vegetarian treats, or splurge on fine dining at Burro.  

Explore the National Museum of Iceland

Leave the chill outside chill for a few hours and head into Iceland’s National Museum. You’ll learn about the country’s fascinating history, from Viking settlements to contemporary civilization. The museum hosts some wonderful historic artifacts and medieval engravings.

You can stroll through the exhibitions, and marvel at the strength and perseverance of a culture that developed here, long before aircon made the chill more manageable!

• Just a note: the museum is closed on Mondays during winter, so plan your itinerary accordingly.

Go on an Icelandic Horseriding Tour

Icelandic horses are they are not as gracious as Arabic horses but these chubby little animals are one of a kind.

Icelandic horses are short and stocky, with long shaggy hair. They’re a great joy to ride for all ages. But more excitingly, the area around Reykjavik is an incredible place to explore on horseback.

Spend a few hours riding through lava fields and along the startling green (or white) hillside. It’s one of the best things to do in Iceland, and totally unique to the country.  In addition to the actual riding, horseback riding tours include rubber boots, helmets, rainwear or warm clothes if needed, and a guide. You can even request transport there if you’d prefer.

I am allergic to horses, so I stay away from them, but Icelandic horses are really iconic!

New Year´s Eve in Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the perfect destination to spend an unforgettable New Year’s Eve. I was lucky enough to celebrate NYE in Reykjavik from 2019/2020 and I can tell you: the locals know to celebrate into the new year,

Every year, thousands of people flock to Reykjavik to experience the city’s vast array of activities and festivities that make celebrating the new year a unique experience.

Spend your evening listening to live music from local bands or take part in the many parties that Iceland’s capital has to offer. For those looking for something a little more traditional, head to Hallgrímskirkja and take part in the carol singing at midnight.

With picturesque views of the ocean and cityscape, this is sure to be an unforgettable New Year’s Eve. Don’t forget to wrap up warm as temperatures can often drop below freezing! 

Blue Lagoon

While the Blue Lagoon isn’t situated in Reykjavik’s city center, it’s a popular excursion from the capital of Iceland – especially in the winter months. Experiencing the Blue Lagoon’s enchantment is a unique treat, especially in winter, when its soothing warmth offers a delightful contrast to the brisk cold outside.

Shares

Shares

The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most iconic geothermal spas, nestled amidst lava fields near Grindavík on the Reykjanes Peninsula. This man-made lagoon is renowned for its milky-blue, mineral-rich waters, which are believed to possess therapeutic properties.

The water’s unique composition includes silica, algae, and minerals, sourced from 2,000 meters below the surface. Maintaining a year-round temperature between 37-40°C (98-104°F), the lagoon offers a rejuvenating experience against the backdrop of the rugged Icelandic terrain. 

CHECK OUT PRICES FOR THE BLUE LAGOON HERE

Do Day Trips

Reykjavik in winter is a beautiful place and as you can see, there are fun things to do in the winter months in and near Reykjavik. However, you really want to get out and see what else Iceland has to offer. Check out my post on the best day trips to take in winter.

PIN ME FOR LATER

Reykjavik in winter offers a unique blend of charm and wonder that sets it apart from typical European city destinations. While it might not be the quintessential winter city on many lists, its distinctive allure lies in its stunning natural beauty and plethora of engaging activities.

From the ethereal dance of the Northern Lights to cozy cafes serving local delicacies, there’s much to discover. The city’s blend of modern architecture and historical sites, combined with the surrounding snowy landscapes, crafts a captivating tableau.

If Reykjavik is on your travel itinerary, you’re in for a memorable treat. Dive into the rich Icelandic culture, explore its hidden gems, and immerse yourself in its wintry magic.

Safe travels and relish every moment!