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In December, Iceland comes alive with twinkling holiday lights, bustling Christmas markets, and a warm, festive atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the crisp winter air. Reykjavik, in particular, embraces the holiday spirit with cozy cafés, seasonal events, and traditional decorations that create a magical setting for visitors.
Beyond the city, snow-dusted landscapes and short daylight hours create a mystical twilight glow, perfect for outdoor adventures. Whether chasing the northern lights, exploring icy waterfalls, or soaking in geothermal hot springs, Iceland in December offers a unique and unforgettable winter experience.
December in Iceland is marked by chilly temperatures, ranging from 27°F to 37°F (-3°C to 3°C), with frequent snow, rain, and icy conditions. While the days are short, with only 4–5 hours of daylight, the long nights offer prime opportunities to observe the northern lights.
Celebrating Christmas and New Year’s in Iceland offers a magical blend of rich traditions and seasonal wonder. Icelandic Christmas is steeped in folklore, centering around 13 mischievous Yule Lads who leave gifts in children’s shoes each night leading up to December 24th.
Meanwhile, Reykjavik’s cheerful Christmas markets, festive lights, and traditional Icelandic dishes like hangikjot (smoked lamb) and laufabraud (crispy bread) create a cozy and enchanting atmosphere.
New Year’s in Iceland is equally spectacular, featuring community bonfires and dazzling fireworks displays, especially in Reykjavik. Whether exploring Reykjavik’s lively nightlife or relaxing in the countryside under the winter sky, the holiday season in Iceland promises a truly unforgettable experience.
Many Christmas and New Year’s vacation packages combine these vibrant festivities with opportunities to go ice caving, hunt the aurora borealis, and bask in the Blue Lagoon, adding an unforgettable natural touch to the celebrations.
For those seeking adventure, December offers a range of guided tours that showcase the best of Iceland's winter splendor.
Whale Watching: Join a guided boat tour to see humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins, and more. This whale watching tour from Reykjavik runs in December. Winter seas can be unpredictable, but seeing these majestic creatures is worth it.
Ice Caving: Embark on the guided Crystal Blue Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull Glacier, taking you into the heart of stunning, naturally formed ice caves. December is ideal for exploring ice caves as the ice solidifies into striking shades of blue.
Glacier Hiking: Join the Skaftafell Glacier Hiking Tour and trek across the icy expanse of one of Iceland's vast glaciers with a guide. This adventure provides breathtaking views and a unique opportunity to explore glacial formations up close.
Snowmobiling: Experience an adrenaline-filled ride on the Langjokull Glacier Snowmobile Tour. This thrilling excursion combines speed and panoramic vistas of Iceland's winter landscapes.
Horse Riding: Join a Horse Riding Tour, featuring Icelandic horses known for their unique gait. With optional pickup from Reykjavik, this activity is perfect for all experience levels, offering a unique way to explore the winter landscape.
Snorkeling: Dive into the Silfra Snorkeling Tour, where you can swim between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in crystal-clear glacial waters. Professional guides provide photos for this unforgettable experience.
A trip to Iceland in December isn't complete without exploring the island's natural wonders, enhanced by their wintry transformation.
The Northern Lights: Join a Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik for a magical evening of aurora hunting. Expert guides take you to prime viewing spots away from city lights, increasing your chances of seeing this stunning natural phenomenon.
The Golden Circle: Explore Iceland's most iconic route on a Small-Group Golden Circle Minibus Tour from Reykjavik. Pair a Golden Circle tour with a visit to the Blue Lagoon for the ultimate Icelandic winter adventure.
The Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Discover diverse Icelandic landscapes on a Small Group Tour of Snaefellsnes Peninsula from Reykjavik. This journey covers dramatic coastlines, quaint villages, and the legendary Snaefellsjokull Glacier.
The South Coast: Embark on a full-day South Coast tour from Reykjavik, featuring majestic waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, the iconic Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, and breathtaking glacier views.
Geothermal Pools: Relax in steamy hot springs like the Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, or Secret Lagoon, a perfect contrast to the crisp winter air and a dreamy place to watch for the northern lights.
Frozen Waterfalls: Famous sights like Gullfoss, Skogafoss, and Seljalandsfoss are particularly stunning in December, as snow and ice add an ethereal beauty to their surroundings.
If you're looking for a more immersive experience, vacation packages, and multi-day tours are a great way to explore Iceland in December.
5-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package in Iceland with Ice Caving & the Blue Lagoon: Embark on a thrilling journey to explore a mesmerizing blue ice cave within Vatnajokull Glacier, immersing yourself in Iceland's icy wonders.
3-Day Northern Lights & Ice Cave Tour to the Golden Circle, South Coast & Glacier Lagoon: Experience a 3-day adventure along the South Coast. Visit the stunning Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and venture into a captivating ice cave.
2-Day Ice Cave & South Coast Trip to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon: Enjoy a 2-day excursion featuring the breathtaking glacier lagoon and an unforgettable ice-caving experience.
6-Day Northern Lights Adventure Package in Iceland with Ice Caving: Delve into a 6-day winter holiday exploring Iceland's natural wonders, including a visit to a dazzling blue ice cave.
8-Day Guided Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland With Top Activities: Embark on an 8-day guided journey around Iceland's Ring Road, featuring top activities like glacier hiking and whale watching.
For independent spirits, December self-drive tours offer the freedom to discover Iceland's winter wonders at a relaxed pace, from frozen waterfalls to snow-draped landscapes.
7-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour Through the Golden Circle and South Iceland: Spend seven days chasing the northern lights and exploring Iceland's must-see destinations on this self-drive adventure.
5-Day Northern Lights Winter Self-Drive Tour with the Golden Circle & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon: Enjoy a 5-day self-drive tour visiting the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, and South Coast.
6-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour in the South Coast of Iceland with Ice Caving: Explore South Iceland's magical landscapes over six days, including waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glacier lagoons.
Dress Warmly: Pack layers, waterproof outerwear, and insulated boots to stay comfortable in unpredictable weather. If you're planning for outdoor adventures, bring a headlamp.
Plan for Limited Daylight: Use the short daylight hours for outdoor activities and reserve evenings for northern lights tours or cozy cultural experiences.
Stay Safe: Check road conditions and the Iceland weather forecast if you plan to drive, and consider renting a 4x4 vehicle for added security on icy roads. Before arrival, read up on driving in Iceland in December.
A trip to Iceland in December offers a perfect balance of adventure and tranquility. Whether you're marveling at the icy beauty of the countryside, indulging in Reykjavik's festive charm, or chasing the northern lights, December in Iceland is a magical time to visit.
Explore our comprehensive selection of top December tours and packages and plan the trip of a lifetime.
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