10 Things to Do in Iceland during Winter
Activities in Iceland
Planning the perfect winter getaway is an adventure in itself, and if Iceland is on your radar, you're in for an unforgettable experience. This guide is your ultimate roadmap to discovering the country’s breathtaking landscapes and thrilling winter activities, crafted especially for adventure seekers. Get ready to embrace the magic of Iceland’s wonders!
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Where I stayed:
Hvolsvöllur: Stóra-Mörk III Guesthouse
Jökulsárlón: Old Cottage - Reynivellir II
I chose my accommodation with the goal of staying outside the city center as much as possible to maximize my chances of seeing the Northern Lights. A special mention goes to Stóra-Mörk III Guesthouse—it was incredibly cozy and comfortable. I can't recommend this place enough! I was staying here when the Northern lights showed up.

Practical Information:
- Location: Iceland is a Nordic island nation located in the North Atlantic Ocean, just south of the Arctic Circle, between Greenland and Norway.
- Transportation & Exploration: You can reach Iceland via Keflavík International Airport (KEF), located about 50 km (31 miles) from Reykjavík, the capital, or Akureyri Airport (AEY) in the north, which offers domestic and some international flights.
Renting a car is a popular choice for exploring Iceland, especially if you want to experience the scenic routes of the Golden Circle, the South Coast, or venture into remote areas. During winter, make sure to rent a suitable vehicle for better control on icy roads. The road network is well-maintained, but weather conditions can affect driving, so always check road safety updates on the official website. I booked mine through Rentalcars. Public transportation is limited outside Reykjavík, but guided tours are widely available for popular sites like the Blue Lagoon, waterfalls, and glaciers. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather—roads can be icy, and storms may cause closures, especially in rural areas. Always check weather forecasts (vedur.is) and road conditions (road.is) before heading out.
- Weather: Iceland experiences a subarctic climate with cold winters, though not as extreme as one might expect due to the warming effects of the Gulf Stream. During winter temperatures range from -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F) along the coast, while inland areas can be colder. Expect short daylight hours (4–6 hours per day), frequent snow, icy conditions, and strong winds. Despite the cold, winter is an excellent time to witness the Northern Lights, soak in geothermal hot springs, and explore ice caves.
- Money: Iceland is an expensive destination, from accommodation to dining out. Based on my experience, it's best to bring as much food as possible in your luggage, as even supermarkets are pricey. I opted for affordable guesthouses with kitchen facilities, allowing me to prepare my own meals instead of eating out every night. A typical dinner (main course plus a soda) costs around €50–60, while breakfast is about €20.
Iceland winter itinerary
1- Northern Lights
No trip to Iceland in winter is complete without chasing the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis. The best time to see this natural phenomenon is from late September to early April, away from city lights. Head to remote areas for clear skies and dazzling displays of green, pink, and purple lights dancing across the horizon. To catch this phenomenon, I recommend downloading an app called Aurora, which is surprisingly accurate and sends you notifications when the Aurora is visible in your area. There are also guided tours on Viator and Get your Guide to see the northern lights, which can help spotting them during your trip.

2 - Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is a must-do route that covers three iconic sites:
- Thingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this stunning park is not only historically significant but also geologically fascinating. It's where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating breathtaking landscapes.
- The Geysir Geothermal Area: A short 5-minute walk from the main entrance leads you to the famous Great Geysir, which erupts approximately every 10 minutes. The sight of hot water shooting up into the air is truly spectacular, and the surrounding geothermal activity adds to the area’s beauty.
- Gullfoss Waterfall: Known as the "Golden Waterfall," Gullfoss is a must-see marvel. The waterfall cascades dramatically in two stages, creating a powerful display of nature's force. It’s just a short 10-minute walk from the parking lot, making it easily accessible for visitors of all ages.
Easily accessible from Reykjavik, it’s an ideal choice for a day trip. In fact, many tourists flock here during winter, drawn by its proximity to the capital and the opportunity to experience these stunning natural wonders in the unique winter landscape. You can book your experience on Viator or Get your Guide.

3 – Seljalandsfoss
Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic and picturesque waterfalls, plunging 60 meters (197 feet) from rugged, ancient cliffs. What makes it truly unique is the trail that runs behind the waterfall, offering a breathtaking perspective. Unfortunately, this path is closed during the winter months due to safety concerns. This tour from Reykjavik will include also this waterfall.

4- Skógafoss
Just a short drive from Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss is another breathtaking waterfall plunging 60 meters (197 feet) with an impressive 25-meter (82-foot) width. The mist from the falls often creates vivid rainbows on sunny days. Climb the staircase to the viewing platform above for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This tour from Reykjavik will include also this waterfall.

5- Reynisfjara Beach
Situated near the town of Vík, Reynisfjara is a stunning black sand beach renowned for its dramatic basalt columns, towering sea stacks (Reynisdrangar), and the relentless power of the Atlantic waves. However, visitors should be cautious of the unpredictable sneaker waves. I attempted to reach the higher viewpoint of the beach, but during winter, the road is closed, and it takes about an hour to reach it on foot. If you don't have a car this tour will take you from the capital to this spot (among others).

6 - Svartifoss
Nestled within Vatnajökull National Park, Svartifoss (the 'Black Waterfall') is framed by striking basalt column formations that have even inspired Icelandic architecture. For those with extra time, there’s a 1.5-hour loop trail that leads to the waterfall and several other scenic viewpoints. However, I didn’t have enough time, so I took the direct path to Svartifoss, which takes about 20 minutes. Keep in mind that in winter, the trail can be icy, so you may need crampons, which can be rented at the tourist information center. This waterfall is unique for its dramatic setting, surrounded by rugged lava landscapes and lush greenery in the summer, while in winter, it takes on a magical, frozen appearance.

7 - Svínafellsjökull Glacier
Part of the larger Vatnajökull Glacier, Svínafellsjökull offers breathtaking ice formations, deep crevasses, and vivid blue ice. You can park here a walk a little bit to see the iconic site.

The glacier’s rugged beauty has also been featured in movies like Interstellar and Game of Thrones. Guided glacier hikes are available, providing a safe and thrilling way to experience Iceland’s icy wilderness:
8- Diamond Beach
Diamond Beach, located near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, is a surreal stretch of black sand dotted with glistening icebergs that have washed ashore. These crystal-clear ice chunks resemble diamonds, creating a stunning contrast against the dark sand. The constantly changing ice formations make every visit unique.

There are tours that will take you here from Reykjavik, such as From Reykjavik: Glacier Lagoon and Northern Lights Tour or From Reykjavik: Glacier Lagoon and Northern Lights Tour.
9- Blue Crystal Ice Cave
Iceland’s ice caves are truly natural wonders, and the Blue Crystal Ice Cave is one of the most awe-inspiring. Situated beneath the Vatnajökull Glacier, the cave is illuminated by stunning, vivid blue hues created by layers of compressed ice. I highly recommend visiting this cave if you're eager to explore deeper and fully immerse yourself in the glacier’s beauty. Keep in mind that access to the cave is only available through a guided tour, which runs from November to March for safety and accessibility. Below a couple of tours you can book to visit this cave:
- Jökulsárlón: Remote Glacier Hike and a Natural Ice Cave
- Ice Cave and Glacier walk into blue glacier canyon


10- Kirkjufellsfossar
Kirkjufellsfoss, located near the iconic Mount Kirkjufell on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, is a photographer’s paradise. The perfectly symmetrical mountain, complemented by the cascading waterfalls, forms one of Iceland’s most stunning landscapes. It’s particularly enchanting when the Northern Lights dance above or during winter when a light dusting of snow adds to its beauty. Unfortunately, I couldn’t make it as it’s quite a distance from Reykjavik—around a 4-hour drive. If you don't have a car you can arrange a day trip from Reykjavik.

Bonus- Skip Blue Lagoon
I had to mention Blue Lagoon, as it’s become a popular and relaxing spot to enjoy during the winter months. However, to be completely honest, I don’t think it justifies the steep entrance fee, which now costs €90 (and about €100 if you go in the morning). In any case, I highly recommend the experience—if the price isn't a concern for you! It takes 1 h to reach Blue Lagoon from Reykjavik. You can also arrange a transfer here.
Iceland in winter is a paradise for adventure seekers, where snow-covered landscapes, shimmering glaciers, and the magical Northern Lights create an otherworldly backdrop. From glacier hiking on Svínafellsjökull to chasing waterfalls like Skógafoss, exploring ice caves beneath Vatnajökull, and soaking in geothermal hot springs, every moment is unforgettable. Pack your winter gear, embrace the elements, and let the adventure begin!