Scenic 10-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package Tour around Iceland and Reykjavik

The second day of your winter vacation in Iceland is an opportunity to get to know Reykjavik. 

If you enjoy sightseeing, today is a great chance to take in the city's surroundings by exploring Reykjavik on foot. Reykjavik's small size makes it a perfect place to take it all in on a stroll. 

You should make sure to visit Hallgrimskirkja Church. It's the largest church in Iceland, and a trip up to the top of Hallgrimskirkja Church's tower gives an incredible panoramic view of the city. 

The basalt columns surrounding a waterfall in the Skaftafell Nature Reserve inspired the church's majestic architecture.

Another fantastic place to admire the city is the Perlan Museum and Observation Deck. You could also wander towards the sea and see the Harpa Concert Hall, an award-winning cultural center made from over 700 glass panels.

You can add some activities to your free day if you crave adventure. 

If you travel in September or October, you can explore the inside of a volcano. The now dormant Thrihnukagigur Caldera is your window to another world. The interior of this magma chamber is filled with color and geological history.

You could also choose to go whale watching from the old harbor in Reykjavik. A boat will take you into the natural habitat of these gentle giants, and you might even get an enchanting glimpse at some of the unique birdlife off the coast of Reykjavik. 

Some marine animals frequently seen here include humpback whales and white-beaked dolphins.

Meanwhile, if you still need to visit the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, today provides the perfect chance to enjoy a soak in its relaxing waters. If you choose to add this activity, a transfer is provided.

After a day of adventure, you will return to your accommodation in Reykjavik for the night.

On day three of your winter vacation in Iceland, you'll start a six-day guided tour around the Ring Road. For the entire duration of this trip, you'll enjoy the company of a local guide and a small group of travelers.

Today, you get to experience one of Iceland's most popular sightseeing routes, the Golden Circle. This scenic route spans around 190 miles (300 kilometers) and is home to three of the most visited attractions in the country.

The first stop of your Golden Circle journey is Thingvellir National Park. This UNESCO site is not only home to some breathtaking scenery but is also the site of the world's oldest parliament, Althing. 

One of the most exciting aspects of Thingvellir National Park is that it is the place where two tectonic plates meet. Here, you can explore the rift valley and canyon separating the Eurasian and the North American tectonic plates. 

Stunning geological formations and vibrant vegetation surround you.

Next to visit is the Geysir Geothermal Area in the Haukadalur Valley. This area is a fascinating visual representation of Iceland's geothermal and volcanic history. While exploring the field, you'll see steam vents, fumaroles, and hot springs.

The main attraction of the valley is a geyser called Strokkur, which forces a massive jet of hot water out of the ground every five to ten minutes. This burst can rise to around 66 feet (20 meters) in the air.

The impressive Gullfoss Waterfall is the last destination on the Golden Circle sightseeing route. Its name means Golden Falls.

Gullfoss Waterfall's rapid waters cascade down a 105-foot (32-meter) drop into a narrow canyon of the Hvita River. The dramatic fall of water creates an incredible mist that reflects rainbows on a sunny day. 

While in the area, you can choose from multiple viewing options to admire and photograph its beauty.

At the end of the day, you will retire to your accommodation in the Golden Circle area near the town of Hella. You'll have an excellent chance to see the northern lights if the skies are clear.

On day four of your winter vacation package, your small group will take a trip along the stunning South Coast of Iceland. 

The South Coast is a scenic region near Reykjavik known for its stunning natural landscapes. Waterfalls, glaciers, coastal areas, and black-sand beaches will welcome you here.

Your first stop for the day will be Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, an incredibly tall and majestic waterfall. Its location and unique beauty make it a top-rated stop, even in winter. 

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall drops about 197 feet (60 meters) along Iceland’s South Coast. In winter, snow and ice cover the surrounding cliffs, giving the cascade a dramatic, frozen setting.

A path runs behind the waterfall, and when conditions are safe, you can carefully walk behind the falling water for a unique view. Otherwise, you can admire the falls from the front and capture photos framed by icy rock and soft winter light.

Next on the Ring Road tour is a visit to Skogafoss Waterfall. It plunges 197 feet (60 meters) from a wide cliff along the South Coast. In winter, you’ll see snow and ice gathered around the base, adding to the waterfall’s powerful presence.

As you approach, feel the ground tremble beneath the rushing water and watch the mist rise into the cold air. On freezing days, parts of the spray turn to ice, creating striking formations around the falls and giving you a picture-perfect winter scene.

Your final stop of the day is the famous Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, one of the most fascinating places in Iceland. The black sand is a reminder of Iceland's volcanic past and present.

You will rest at your accommodation in South Iceland at the end of your day.

On day six of this winter trip in Iceland, you will head to the Eastfjords, an area of serene beauty and diverse wildlife.

This area in the land of fire and ice is mainly untouched because of its remote location. The region provides a haven for various native birds and other animals. It’s also the only place in Iceland where you can spot wild reindeer.

Traveling throughout the Eastfjords, you will glimpse some spectacular views of the coast and the Atlantic Ocean.

You will pass through the many small fishing villages comprising the Eastfjords. These places are a fascinating snapshot of how important the sea was to Icelanders in the past. 

These towns are rich in culture and history, allowing you to learn more about Iceland’s past.

You will also travel alongside a lake that is said to be home to a mythical monster. Lake Lagarfljot hides a mysterious worm-like monster in its depths. The best way to describe this elusive mythical creature would be to call it the Loch Ness Monster of Iceland.

Besides sightseeing, you can enhance your day with an optional visit to the Vok Baths in East Iceland.

This geothermal spa sits on the shores of Lake Urridavatn and uses naturally heated water to create a warm and relaxing experience. Even in winter, you can soak in the outdoor pools, feel the contrast between the crisp air and the hot water, and take in the peaceful lake views.

On clear nights, you may even catch a glimpse of the northern lights while you relax in the water, adding a special touch to the experience.

You will spend your night in one of the towns in the Eastfjords.

On your eighth day in Iceland, you'll explore Akureyri before heading north to discover more villages and geographical features.

Your first stop is Akureyri to explore this picturesque coastal town. While you are free to explore more of Akureyri, you also have the option to join a whale-watching tour from the harbor.

Those who choose this experience will head out into Eyjafjordur in search of whales and other marine life. As the boat sets sail, you'll cruise along the stunning coastline of North Iceland, with its dramatic cliffs and picturesque fjords. 

The guides will share fascinating insights about the local geography, wildlife, and conservation efforts, providing a deeper understanding of the area's natural wonders.

As you venture further into the ocean, keep your eyes peeled for the magnificent creatures that call these waters home. Eyjafjordur is renowned for its abundant marine life, and there's a high chance of encountering various species of whales, including humpback whales, minke whales, and white-beaked dolphins.

While admiring and photographing these curious creatures, the guide will tell you exciting trivia and stories about them. Your guide will tell you about their surfacing behaviors, migration patterns, and ways to protect them.

If you prefer to stay on land, you can spend more time exploring Akureyri, stroll through the town center, visit local shops, or enjoy a meal at one of the city’s cafes.

After your time in Akureyri, you will head west, stopping on the way to appreciate the towering rock stack, Hvitserkur.

Hvitserkur rock formation is also known as "White Shirt" in Icelandic, thanks to the abundance of guano covering this natural structure. 

Many travelers and locals claim the rock stack resembles a troll, while others consider it a dragon or elephant leaning down to drink from the ocean.

You will then head back to Iceland's capital, Reykjavik, where you will spend the night.

Day ten of your winter vacation is your final day in Iceland. Although your trip is ending, there is still some time to get some last glimpses of the incredible sights of Reykjavík.

Before you depart, stroll down the high street of Reykjavik, Laugavegur. Laugavegur Street is the perfect place to find those last-minute souvenirs of your time in Iceland.

This vibrant area has different shops, boutiques, and specialty stores.

Downtown Reykjavik is also a place immersed in coffee and food culture. Many incredible restaurants and cafes throughout the city boast fantastic food paired with a cozy atmosphere.

While in the area, don’t miss your chance to sample some iconic Icelandic snacks and dishes. For example, one famous snack you can try is the pylsur or Icelandic hot dog. Many hot dog stands are in the city, but the most famous is Baejarins Beztu.

Unlike other hot dogs worldwide, the Icelandic pylsur is unique because of its lamb, pork, and beef blend. There are also different choices for toppings, such as fried onions, mustard, and special remoulade sauce.

For those who have a later flight and choose to visit the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa today, you will finish your stay unwinding before heading to the airport. 

The Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is the perfect place to relax as you bathe in the warm, mineral-rich waters while looking back on the incredible adventure you have just taken in the land of fire and ice. 

When you are ready to say goodbye to this incredible country, you will take a bus to the Keflavik International Airport. You’ll drop your baggage and check-in for your flight. You can do some last-minute shopping or grab a drink at the airport.