What to do in Iceland in December?

In December, Iceland offers magical winter experiences like chasing the Northern Lights, exploring stunning ice caves, and snowmobiling glaciers, alongside festive Reykjavík activities such as Christmas markets, geothermal spas (like Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon) in snowy landscapes, and vibrant New Year's Eve fireworks. Don't miss Golden Circle sights (waterfalls, geysers), South Coast black sand beaches, or unique glacier lagoons like Jökulsárlón, all accessible via tours or self-drive.

Is December a good time to visit Iceland?

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

What are the best things to do in Iceland in December?

Some of the highlights and best things to do in Iceland during winter are the Northern Lights/Aurora hunting, Blue Ice cave, Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, Diamond Beach, Jokulsarlon, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and endless waterfalls. So here's our Iceland winter self-drive itinerary in mid-December.

Is it possible to see Northern Lights in Iceland in December?

December is one of the very best months of the year to chase the aurora in Iceland. The nights are long and dark, and while the temperatures are colder, the reward is greater - crystal-clear skies and incredible Northern Lights displays.

Is the Blue Lagoon open in December?

We are open every day of the year. We kindly request that guests exit the water 30 minutes before closure.

Visiting Iceland in December? Watch THIS Before You Go!

Is Iceland too dark in December?

December in Iceland is mostly dark. Three hours of daylight, long blue hours, nights that stretch into morning.

What can I not bring to Iceland?

Prohibited articles

Among articles which are prohibited from importation are the following types of products: Narcotics and dangerous drugs. Various weapons, e.g. daggers with blades exceeding 12 cm, switchblade knives and flick stilettos, knuckles and various truncheons, crossbows and handcuffs. Finely powdered snuff.

What are the top five things to do in Iceland?

Top 10 things to do in Iceland!

• Check out the cutest bird in the world. ...
• The Midnight Sun. ...
• Experience Reykjavik "Smokey Bay" ...
• Explore Vatnajökull National Park. ...
• Hike a Volcano. ...
• Chase Waterfalls. ...
• The Northern Lights. ...
• Visit Jökulsárlón Lagoon.

What is the number one attraction in Iceland?

1. Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. The Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is often considered the number one attraction in Iceland, making it a highlight of any trip to Southeast Iceland. Here, massive icebergs break off from Breidamerkurjokull Glacier and drift across the lagoon before reaching the sea.

What is the festival in Iceland in December?

Jól is a midwinter festival of feasting and merrymaking, celebrating the Norse god Thor, and marking the return of longer days after the winter solstice on December 21st.

What to wear in December in Iceland?

What to Wear in Iceland in Winter

• Start with a high-quality base layer, the closest to your body. It must be merino wool or synthetic fiber thermals. ...
• Add a mid-layer for extra insulation, like fleece, which is breathable and lightweight, or a wool sweater for less active outings.
• Wrap it all up with a good shell layer.

Can you go in the Blue Lagoon in winter?

The Blue Lagoon is open all year and popular during every season. To ensure the comfort of all guests, a maximum capacity is enforced, so you must book several months in advance to secure your spot.

What is Icelandic food like?

Iceland's food scene won't disappoint even the most avid foodies. The pillars of Icelandic cuisine are meat, dairy, and fish. For a long time, Icelandic people didn't grow green vegetables or fruit. Apples and oranges were luxury items only shipped to the country during big celebrations such as Christmas.

Can you see whales in Reykjavik in December?

Whale watching in December is a rewarding experience. While the larger baleen whales that come to Iceland to feed in summer have largely migrated south to their mating grounds (although there are always stragglers who stay year-round), there are still several other whales.

Why can't you wear jeans in Iceland?

Jeans aren't ideal, even for city activities, because they retain moisture as your legs kick up snow. Cotton clothing isn't suited for Icelandic winter, either, due to it holding moisture when you sweat under your layers. Cotton will grow cold, heavy and wet.

What is the biggest predator in Iceland?

Unlike parts of mainland Europe or North America, Iceland has no large land predators at all.

Why is the letter C illegal in Iceland?

At the same time, Jón wished to legally name his daughter “Camilla”, after his grandmother. Once again, the Icelandic Naming Committee decided that this was inappropriate given the fact that there is no “c” in the Icelandic language.

Where should I go for the first time in Iceland?

For a first-time visit to Iceland, it's a good idea to get to know the main sights along the Golden Circle route and the South Coast. If you have an extra day or two, then you can include tours of the Snaefellsnes peninsula. If you have more than a week, you can easily see the main sights along the Ring Road.

What currency is used in Iceland?

The official currency of Iceland is the Icelandic krona (ISK). Banknotes are commonly found in denominations of 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 krona, and coins are in 1, 5, 10, 50, and 100 krona.

Is it worth visiting the Blue Lagoon?

Even with the crowds, I left relaxed, warm, and very glad we went. The early slot and “go straight to the far pool” plan made the experience! My answer to 'is Blue Lagoon worth it': absolutely YES.

Can I see aurora borealis in Iceland in December?

Best Time of Night To See the Aurora Borealis in Iceland

In December, they may be visible from roughly 4:00 p.m. until just before the late-morning sunrise. While the weather in Iceland in December can be unpredictable, it's usually not as cold and snowy as in January, so you may have more luck with clear skies.

What are the Christmas traditions in Iceland?

In Iceland, we celebrate the mischievous antics of the 13 Yule Lads, the tales of the Yule Cat, devouring hangikjöt (smoked lamb), and playing board games indoors. Christmas for us is a time of stories, songs, food, and family. Read about them above!

What are the best winter activities in Iceland?

Things to do in Iceland in winter

• See the northern lights. ...
• Soak in hot springs and geothermal pools. ...
• Travel the famous Golden Circle route. ...
• Visit the South Coast of Iceland in winter. ...
• Go glacier hiking and visit ice caves. ...
• Take a snowmobile tour. ...
• Experience a whale watching tour. ...
• Try winter snorkelling and diving.