Find the best things to do in Reykjavik in winter. Discover the city’s top landmarks, set out on wildlife and northern lights adventures, and experience the most popular seasonal tours. This guide highlights the top things to do in Reykjavik in winter, along with practical ideas to help you plan your time in the capital.
Winter vacations in Iceland are a fantastic way to discover how Icelanders celebrate Christmas and other seasonal festivities. You’ll discover that many of the best things to do in Reykjavik are especially memorable in winter, when the city is wrapped in snow, and the streets shine after dark.
Why You Can Trust Our Content
Guide to Iceland is the most trusted travel platform in Iceland, helping millions of visitors each year. All our content is written and reviewed by local experts who are deeply familiar with Iceland. You can count on us for accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy travel advice.
Even with lower temperatures, many famous spots remain simple to explore, and there are plenty of indoor and outdoor activities waiting around every corner. Museums, parks, and northern lights excursions all add to the city’s charm.
Winter also brings fewer crowds, giving you more space to enjoy sightseeing in Reykjavik at your own pace. With only about 4 to 5 hours of daylight around the winter solstice, it’s best to plan outdoor stops for midday and use the longer nights for aurora tours and other best winter activities. Read on to discover the top ways to spend your time in Reykjavik in winter.
Key Takeaways
-
Reykjavik offers a mix of sightseeing, tours, and indoor attractions that make it easy to enjoy the city during the colder months.
-
Northern lights hunting is best done on guided tours outside the city, as experts track forecasts and take you to darker spots for the best chance of seeing the aurora.
-
Winter boat trips, including whale watching and aurora cruises, are popular experiences departing from Reykjavik Old Harbor.
-
Geothermal bathing is a great way to relax in winter, with options ranging from local swimming pools to Sky Lagoon just minutes from downtown Reykjavik.
-
Reykjavik’s museums, cultural tours, and food experiences are perfect for adding variety to winter days.
-
December brings Reykjavik’s popular Christmas markets, festive lights, and Icelandic traditions like the Yule Lads.
-
Day trips from Reykjavik, such as the Golden Circle, South Coast, Reykjanes Peninsula, and Snaefellsnes Peninsula, highlight Iceland’s winter landscapes.
-
Bad weather is common, so having indoor options like restaurants, shopping, and cinemas helps you stay flexible.
Best Things to Do in Reykjavik City Center in Winter
Reykjavik’s city center is especially beautiful in winter, with glowing landmarks and famous sights close together. Even with fewer daylight hours, it’s easy to plan a full day of exploring, especially with sightseeing tours in Reykjavik that highlight the city’s top spots. Wander at your own pace, hop on a bus, or join a guided walking tour to experience Reykjavik’s history, culture, and winter energy.
Visit Harpa Concert Hall
The Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center is a great place to make your first stop. Admire the magnificent concert hall, which houses the Iceland Opera and the Iceland Symphony Orchestra. You could also check if there are any concerts you’d like to attend while you're here and book them for later.
The design of the building itself is fascinating. It’s worth viewing it from outside, even if you don’t venture indoors. The architecture was a collaboration between Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson and Henning Larsen Architects.
Take in the Views at Hallgrimskirkja Church
Hallgrimskirkja Church is one of the most beautiful churches in Iceland, known for its striking design and 245-foot (74.5-meter) spire inspired by basalt lava columns. It’s the tallest building in Reykjavik and one of the most well-known landmarks in Iceland.
You can take a lift up to the observation tower for the unforgettable view from the top of Hallgrimskirkja, with wide panoramas stretching across the capital. There's a small fee for this, which goes towards the upkeep of the church.
Stroll Around Austurvollur Square
Don’t miss Austurvollur Square, a popular meeting place in the heart of Reykjavik. Surrounded by the Icelandic parliament building, cafes, shops, and bars, it’s a great spot to pause during a winter stroll.
The square also becomes part of the Winter Lights Festival Reykjavik, when glowing light installations brighten the city center, including stops near Hallgrimskirkja and Skolavordustigur Street. At its center stands a statue of Jón Sigurðsson, a national hero honored each year on Iceland's Independence Day.
Walk Along Reykjavik’s Old Harbor
Reykjavik Old Harbor is worth a visit even if you’re not heading out on the water. The waterfront has beautiful winter views of Mount Esja, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and the Reykjanes Peninsula, especially on clear days. After a stroll, you can warm up with a coffee at Reykjavik Rost, a favorite cafe nearby.
The dock is also where many winter boat trips begin, including a whale watching tour from Reykjavik and a northern lights cruise departing from the Old Harbor.
See the Sun Voyager Sculpture
Located near the Old Harbor, the Sun Voyager Sculpture is one of Iceland’s most famous artworks and a favorite photo stop in Reykjavik. The striking steel landmark symbolizes hope, progress, and freedom, shaped like a Viking ship facing the sea. Thanks to its open waterfront setting, it’s also one of the best places to see the northern lights in Reykjavik on a clear winter night.
Shop and Snack Along Laugavegur Street
If shopping is part of your winter itinerary, make time for Laugavegur, Reykjavik’s main street, lined with boutiques, cafés, bars, and restaurants. You can browse for clothes, jewelry, antiques, and local gifts, or join a shopping tour in Reykjavik to find some of the city’s best local stores.
Laugavegur is also one of the top areas for street art in Reykjavik, with colorful works brightening the city center. A tour of the capital’s street art is a great way to learn the stories behind the boldest pieces, including some of the most memorable Reykjavik City murals tucked between shopfronts.
Explore Reykjavik’s Museums and Cultural Spots
Iceland’s capital has plenty of cultural experiences during winter, especially when you want a break from outdoor sightseeing. The Reykjavik City Card, available in 24-hour, 48-hour, or 72-hour options, offers discounted entry to major attractions along with perks like public transport and pool access.
Exploring the best museums in Reykjavik is another popular cultural activity in winter. Get a ticket to the Perlan Museum on Oskjuhlid Hill to visit its indoor ice cave and see panoramic city views.
For history, the National Museum of Iceland provides the clearest overview of the country’s history, while the Saga Museum uses lifelike displays to bring Viking stories to life. For a more active cultural experience, a Viking walking tour is a great way to hear the stories behind Reykjavik’s landmarks.
Art lovers can visit the Reykjavik Art Museum, which spans Hafnarhus, Kjarvalsstadir, and Asmundarsafn. Alternatively, the Whales of Iceland Museum and Reykjavik Maritime Museum highlight the city’s strong connection to the sea.
Discover Unusual and Unique Winter Stops in Reykjavik
For something different, Reykjavik has a few attractions that are truly one of a kind. FlyOver Iceland is a thrilling flight simulator that lets you experience sweeping views of the country’s landscapes without ever leaving the city. Tickets for the FlyOver Iceland experience often sell out, so reserving ahead of time is a smart move.
Just off Laugavegur Street, you’ll also find two of the weirdest museums in Iceland. The Icelandic Phallological Museum started as a quirky private collection and has since become famous around the world. If it’s on your list, you can book a ticket to the Phallological Museum in advance. Nearby, the Icelandic Punk Museum is set inside a former public toilet block. It offers a fun look into the country’s punk and new wave scene.
The Best Tours in Reykjavik in Winter
Reykjavik is an excellent base for winter experiences in Iceland, with guided tours that take you to some of the country’s most impressive natural sights. This season is especially ideal for chasing the northern lights and discovering the top things to do across Iceland during the colder months.
Northern Lights Tours from Reykjavik
The northern lights appear between September and April, but Reykjavik itself is often too bright to see them clearly. That’s why joining northern lights tours is the best way to maximize your chances. Experienced guides monitor weather and solar activity to take you to the darkest areas with the best chance of a sighting.
A classic guided northern lights tour by bus is a great budget-friendly option, taking you out of the city to improve your chances of seeing the aurora. If you prefer a smaller group and want to capture the moment in more than your memory, a northern lights tour by minibus with free photos and refreshments is the best choice.
For the most adventurous travelers, a northern lights tour by Super Jeep offers a thrilling ride into Iceland’s remote landscapes, with free photos also included. Another way to see the aurora is on the water. With a northern lights boat cruise from Reykjavik, you can sail beyond the harbor and enjoy an unobstructed view of the sky with minimal light pollution.
Beyond evening outings, you can also plan short northern lights breaks that combine aurora hunting with iconic winter highlights. A 5-day northern lights winter vacation package adds frozen waterfalls, ice caves, and the Blue Lagoon for a well-rounded seasonal itinerary.
Whale Watching Tours in Winter
Iceland is known for its rich marine life, and joining whale watching tours is one of the most exciting ways to see it firsthand. The country is home to more than 20 whale species, including minke and humpback whales. Taking a whale-watching tour from Reykjavik Harbor is the best way to get a close view of the animals.
In the colder months, sightings often include year-round residents like white-beaked dolphins and harbor porpoises, with occasional humpbacks and, more rarely, orcas. Dress in warm layers with a windproof jacket so you can stay comfortable during your whale watching experience.
Helicopter Tours Over Reykjavik
A helicopter tour with a mountaintop landing offers a truly unique perspective on Reykjavik during the winter months. These helicopter tours offer a sweeping view of the city skyline and its surrounding landscapes, giving you a whole new perspective from above.
Iceland's helicopter experiences give you a clear view of landmarks like Harpa Concert Hall and Hallgrimskirkja Church, while Reykjavik’s colorful tin roofs form a patchwork pattern across the city below. For travelers looking for something truly special, you can combine a helicopter flight with an ATV adventure if you want to tick two experiences off your bucket list.
Best Outdoor Activities in Reykjavik in Winter
You don’t have to give up outdoor activities like swimming just because it’s winter. Bathing in geothermal waters is a big part of Icelandic culture, and Reykjavik’s heated pools make it easy to stay warm while enjoying the fresh air. These outdoor soaks are also a great way to relax tired muscles after a day of sightseeing.
One of the most popular places to unwind is the Sky Lagoon, located just a few minutes from downtown Reykjavik. The water stays around 100 to 104 F (38 to 40 C), and many visitors choose to try the seven-step Sky Ritual, which includes a cold plunge, sauna, mist, scrub, and steam room. The best way to enjoy this is by booking premium admission to Sky Lagoon.
Reykjavik also has several parks that are enjoyable even in winter. Laugardalur is a well-known recreation area and home to Laugardalslaug, the largest swimming pool in Iceland, complete with geothermal hot tubs and a water slide. The park also hosts sports facilities if you prefer to stay dry.
Another scenic spot is Hljomskalagardurinn, located beside Tjornin Pond. It’s a peaceful place for a winter walk and a good area for spotting birdlife, with fewer visitors than in summer. On clear, dark evenings, you might even catch a glimpse of the northern lights nearby.
Klambratun Park is another local favorite close to downtown, with open green space, playgrounds, and sports courts. At its center sits the Kjarvalsstadir Art Museum, making it an easy stop that combines outdoor time with a cultural visit.
Christmas Activities in Reykjavik
If you’re visiting Reykjavik in December, you’ll quickly notice how special Christmas feels, with festive lights, seasonal traditions, and holiday events across the city. The Christmas season in Iceland runs from around December 11, when the first Yule Lad arrives, through January 6, known as Threttandinn (the Thirteenth Day).
One of the best ways to experience it all is by joining Christmas tours that share local folklore and bring the city’s decorations to life. You can also stop by the city’s popular Christmas markets, where stalls sell handmade gifts, seasonal treats, and Icelandic holiday favorites.
The celebrations continue into the evening, with many Reykjavik restaurants open during Christmas, making it easy to enjoy a festive meal after exploring the city. For travelers who want a full seasonal getaway, a 5-day Christmas and northern lights holiday package is an excellent way to combine festive traditions with aurora adventures.
Best Things To Do in Reykjavik in Winter in Bad Weather
Winter weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, and strong winds or heavy snowfall may sometimes lead to outdoor tours being rescheduled. Thankfully, there are plenty of indoor experiences in Reykjavik that make it easy to enjoy the city even on stormy days.
One of the best is exploring Icelandic cuisine. A food tour in Reykjavik offers a tasty introduction to traditional dishes, fresh seafood, and modern Nordic flavors. From there, it’s easy to continue the evening at one of the best restaurants in Reykjavik with seasonal menus.
After dinner, the city’s nightlife offers more ways to stay warm indoors. Reykjavik’s happy hour is a great time to sample Icelandic beers at lower prices and discover the city's craft beer scene. Some rooftop bars even come with views over the winter lights.
Shopping in Reykjavik is another great option when the weather keeps you inside. Start on Laugavegur, then browse the Kolaportid Flea Market on weekends for local treats and souvenirs. For a bigger selection, head to Kringlan or Smaralind, two large indoor malls with dining and cinemas.
If you feel like slowing down, Reykjavik has several cinemas, including Sambio, Smarabio, and Laugarasbio. For independent films and a local atmosphere, Bio Paradis is the city’s favorite arthouse movie theater.
Best Winter Day Trips from Reykjavik
Reykjavik has plenty to offer in winter, but it’s also the perfect base for exploring beyond the city. These winter day trips from Reykjavik make it easy to visit geothermal spas, waterfalls, and landscapes in Iceland during the colder months.
Blue Lagoon Winter Day Trip from Reykjavik
The Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa and one of the most popular winter escapes near Reykjavik. Its steamy blue waters stay warm year-round at around 100 F (38 C), creating a relaxing contrast to the chilly air. Many travelers also enjoy browsing the on-site shop to pick up Blue Lagoon Skincare products made with the lagoon’s silica-rich minerals.
Located about 31 miles (50 kilometers) from the capital, it’s an easy outing, especially with organized Blue Lagoon tours or a convenient Blue Lagoon bus transfer that removes the stress of winter driving. It’s also wise to book your Blue Lagoon ticket in advance, as winter time slots often sell out quickly.
Golden Circle Winter Day Trip from Reykjavik
A day trip to the Golden Circle is another way to explore some of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks. Taking a Golden Circle minibus tour from Reykjavik lets you trace the famous 190-mile (roughly 305-kilometer) route. Along the way, you’ll stop at Thingvellir National Park, the two‑tiered Gullfoss Waterfall, and the steaming pools at the Geysir Geothermal Area.
Many Golden Circle tours depart directly from Reykjavik, making it an easy and comfortable winter excursion. For something extra memorable, you can join a Golden Circle and snowmobiling combo tour. Another popular option is pairing a Golden Circle tour with a visit to the Secret Lagoon for a relaxing soak in winter.
South Coast Winter Day Trip from Reykjavik
The South Coast of Iceland is home to some of the country’s most gorgeous waterfalls, glacier lagoons, black‑sand beaches, and epic hiking trails. Many South Coast tours include stops at Seljalandsfoss Waterfalls, where you can walk behind the cascade in good conditions, and Skogafoss Waterfalls, an easily accessible waterfall right off the Ring Road.
A South Coast tour from Reykjavik often continues to Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, famous for its Reynisdrangar Basalt Columns and strong waves. Longer excursions and multi-day tours may also reach Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon for an even more unforgettable winter experience.
If you are traveling independently with a rental car, always check road conditions on road.is.
Snaefellsnes Peninsula Winter Day Trip from Reykjavik
Located on Iceland’s western coast, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula boasts some of the country's most dramatic landscapes, glaciers, waterfalls, and fishing villages. It’s often referred to as "Iceland in miniature" because so many classic landscapes come together in one region.
Highlights include Kirkjufell Mountain, one of Iceland’s most photographed peaks, and the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall. Joining Snaefellsnes tours, such as a small-group Snaefellsnes day tour from Reykjavik, is a comfortable way to experience the peninsula during the colder months.
Reykjanes Peninsula Winter Day Trip from Reykjavik
A day tour to Reykjanes is one of the easiest ways to see Iceland’s volcanic side up close. This area near Keflavik International Airport is filled with geothermal sites like Gunnuhver and Krysuvik, and unique stops such as the Bridge Between Continents.
Many Reykjanes tours also visit coastal sights like the Reykjanesviti Lighthouse and the Hafnarberg Sea Cliffs. With so many natural wonders packed into one region, it’s a rewarding winter escape just outside the capital. For more ideas, this guide to the best things to do on the Reykjanes Peninsula is a helpful place to start.
Practical Winter Tips for Reykjavik
Reykjavik is easy to enjoy in winter, but a little planning goes a long way. These simple tips will help you stay comfortable, safe, and make the most of shorter days and changing weather.
-
Dress in warm layers: Wear a thermal base layer, a waterproof jacket, and insulated gloves so you can stay outside longer.
-
Bring shoe ice grips: Sidewalks can get slippery, and small crampons make walking much safer.
-
Stay flexible with your schedule: Winter storms can affect tours, flights, and road access, so keep backup indoor plans.
-
Book top experiences early: Popular activities like the Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, and northern lights tours often sell out in peak season.
-
Plan outdoor sightseeing around daylight: Daylight is limited in midwinter, so save evenings for museums, food tours, and nightlife.
-
Check road and weather updates daily: Use vedur.is for forecasts and road.is for driving conditions if you are traveling beyond the city.
-
Pack for wind, not just cold: Reykjavik can feel much colder with strong gusts, so windproof outerwear is essential.
-
Choose guided tours for day trips: Winter roads can be challenging, and guided excursions are often the safest way to explore nearby sights.
FAQs About Things To Do in Reykjavik in Winter
Below are quick answers to the most common questions about the best things to do in Reykjavik in winter.
What to do in Reykjavik in winter for a day?
Reykjavik offers plenty to do in winter, even with limited daylight. Popular options include visiting landmarks like Hallgrimskirkja Church and Harpa Concert Hall, relaxing in a geothermal pool, exploring museums such as Perlan, and enjoying the city’s food scene. Many travelers also join a northern lights tour in the evening for a memorable winter experience.
What are the best things to do in Reykjavik in winter at night?
The best things to do in Reykjavik in winter at night include joining a northern lights tour by bus or boat, when the skies are darkest outside the city. You can also enjoy Reykjavik’s happy hour and craft beer scene, visit rooftop bars with skyline views, or see illuminated landmarks during the Winter Lights Festival.
What are the best things to do in Reykjavik in December?
The best things to do in Reykjavik in December include visiting Christmas markets, seeing the city’s festive lights, and learning about Icelandic holiday traditions like the Yule Lads. It’s also a great time for winter sightseeing, museum visits, and northern lights tours during the long dark evenings.
What are the best things to do in Reykjavik in January?
The best things to do in Reykjavik in January focus on winter adventures and a quieter city atmosphere. Travelers often enjoy geothermal pools, Golden Circle day tours, snowmobiling, and excellent northern lights conditions after the holiday season. January is also ideal for exploring Reykjavik’s restaurants, museums, and happy hour culture indoors.
What are some free things to do in Reykjavik in winter?
Free things to do in Reykjavik in winter include walking through the city center to see Hallgrimskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, and the Sun Voyager Sculpture. You can also explore Reykjavik’s street art and murals, enjoy holiday lights in December, and take scenic waterfront strolls with views of Mount Esja at the Old Harbor.
What are some cheap things to do in Reykjavik in winter?
Cheap things to do in Reykjavik in winter include visiting local geothermal swimming pools, which cost far less than luxury lagoons. You can also shop at Kolaportid Flea Market, use Reykjavik happy hour deals, and save money with the Reykjavik City Card for discounted museums and public transport.
Reykjavik Winter Activities to Add to Your Itinerary
Reykjavik is a rewarding place to visit in winter, with everything from northern lights tours and geothermal pools to museums, holiday events, and scenic day trips just outside the city. With so many Reykjavik winter activities to choose from, it’s easy to build a trip that fits your travel style, even during the colder months.
Planning ahead can make the experience even smoother. Booking flights to Reykjavik early often helps with better options, and choosing from Reykjavik’s wide range of hotels keeps you close to the city’s top sights, restaurants, and tour departures.
These are some of our favorite Reykjavik winter experiences. Are you thinking about visiting soon? We would love to hear what is on your list, so feel free to share your plans or questions in the comments below!
