Find out everything you need to know about visiting Iceland in February. Learn about the weather, what to pack, and how to prepare for your trip. Find exciting February tours and activities like whale watching, chasing the northern lights, and exploring glacier caves!
In February, most of Iceland's landscapes and towns will be draped in snow. With more hours of darkness than light each day, it's an optimal time for northern lights tours.
Despite the dramatic climate, much of Iceland in February is still as accessible as at other times of the year. It's possible to drive the entire Ring Road during February with a rental car.
However, you can also stay in Reykjavik accommodations and go for day trips to many of the country's most iconic attractions.
That said, travelers should be aware that driving in Iceland in February can still be dangerous. Road conditions are frequently hazardous, and weather can be unpredictable. Additionally, it's very dark, and there's little road lighting outside of population centers. You'll need to rent a 4-wheel drive vehicle.
There are, however, many benefits to visiting Iceland during this time. In February, many popular destinations will be much quieter than during the high season. In fact, for the past few years, February has been among Iceland's least crowded months. This makes it a great time to plan your trip to avoid crowds!
With many unique and exciting winter activities, you won't run out of fun things to do during your visit. Here's everything you need to know about visiting Iceland in February.
- Read about Iceland in January and Iceland in March
- See also: Iceland in Winter
What to Know About Iceland in February
Anyone coming to Iceland in February will have a wonderful time immersing themselves in the quiet, wintry landscapes and thriving city culture. However, there are several things you must know before your arrival if you want to stay safe.
Driving in Iceland in February
Video from 12-Day Northern Lights Winter Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road with Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Although Iceland's roads are usually well-maintained, they can be hazardous in February. In the winter months, they're ice-layered and lined with snowdrifts. Heavy rain, snowfall, and lasting darkness can also obscure your vision, and strong winds can destabilize vehicles.
Therefore, it's essential that you only rent a car if you have experience driving in hazardous conditions and on icy, rural roads. We strongly recommend a four-wheel-drive car rental for this time of year.
While it's not possible to have chains on your tires, all cars will have winter tires. Most car rental companies in Iceland offer studded tires (tires with nails to add traction). We recommend that you request studded tires if they're not included in your rental.
- Check out the Best Advice For Renting a Car in Iceland
Registering your travel plans is a good idea so that you can more easily be located if something goes wrong. It's also essential to check the weather website for the conditions of your route and destination before setting out. You should check the weather every morning before traveling, as some places are particularly vulnerable to dangers, such as avalanches in certain areas.
The roads into the Highlands, and many through the Westfjords, will undoubtedly be closed. Many of them are so-called mountain roads or "F-Roads," which are only open during summer. In case you're wondering, the "F" stands for "fjall", which is the Icelandic word for mountain.
Additionally, be careful where you park to avoid getting stuck in the snow. Most insurance packages don't include towing charges, and you'll have to pay a hefty fee for assistance.
You must never cross a road that's closed off, and you must never drive off-road. Doing such a thing in summer is ridiculous and damaging enough (not to mention illegal with huge fines and potential prison time), but it can be fatal in winter.
Weather in Iceland in February
The average temperature in February in the capital, Reykjavik, is 33.8 F (1 C). It's also one of the country's wetter months, with an average of 3.3 inches (83 millimeters) of precipitation.
February weather in Iceland is notorious for its unpredictable turns, and you'll probably get caught in snow, wind, and rain during your stay — possibly even all on the same day!
The long nights are cold and dark, though the hours of light will continue to increase during your trip by nine minutes every day. Snow, once settled, brings light to the darkness. On clear, cold nights, the northern lights are most visible, so bundle up and turn your eyes toward the sky.
- Learn more: The Weather & Temperature in Iceland
What To Wear in February in Iceland
As you would expect, you should take plenty of warm clothes with you when traveling to Iceland in February.
- Hiking boots: Even if you're planning to stay only in Reykjavik, it's a good idea to wear hiking boots. The streets can be icy — that could either be fresh ice or melting ice. While you can wear regular shoes, your feet could get soaking wet and cold.
- Gloves: Wearing high-quality, warm gloves is a must. The best options are leather gloves with an inner fleece lining.
- Wind and waterproof pants: When venturing off far from Reykjavik, the weather can be unpredictable. It'll most likely be windy and wet, so you should definitely wear these items in Iceland in February.
- Swimming suit: This one may not be so obvious, but if you plan to visit one of the many hot springs, geothermal pools, or lagoons in Iceland or go snorkeling in Silfra, you'll want one.
As a general rule, you should wear warm layers like scarves, hats, and gloves. For comfort and ease of packing, fleece and wool items are the best options.
- Discover What to Wear in Iceland: The Ultimate Guide for All Seasons
- See also: What to Pack for Travel in Iceland
Daylight Hours in Iceland in February
When visiting Iceland in February, you'll find that these days are still relatively short. As the month progresses, you can expect slightly more daylight. Here's how the start of an Icelandic February compares to its last day.
February 1st
- Time of sunrise: 10:07 AM
- Time of sunset: 5:16 PM
- Hours of daylight: 7 hours and 9 minutes
February 28th
- Time of sunrise: 08:38 AM
- Time of sunset: 6:43 PM
- Hours of daylight: 10 hours and 5 minutes
- See also: Dumbest Things to do in Iceland
Is the Blue Lagoon Open in February?
Yes, the Blue Lagoon is open in February. It's open year-round, even when the outside temperature is below zero! Visiting the Blue Lagoon and swimming in its warm waters during winter is an incredible experience.
This is also the best time for photography lovers to capture the thick steam coming out of the warm blue waters. You might even be able to spot the northern lights if you visit in the evening!
You can check out the many other fantastic geothermal spas, hot springs, and public pools all around Iceland. For a lovely moment of relaxation within the Capital Region, you can visit the Sky Lagoon, or take a trip to the picturesque Hvalfjordur fjord for a dip in the luxurious Hvammsvik Hot Springs.
There are plenty of hot spring tours available in February. You'll be able to find entry tickets, transfers, and combination experiences as well. One such example is this Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon tour from Reykjavik!
- See more about the 30 Best Hot Springs and Geothermal Pools in Iceland
- See also: Blue Lagoon vs. Sky Lagoon: Which One Should You Visit?
Things To Do in Iceland in February
Those who heartily embrace the cold will find many things to enjoy during an Icelandic February. Northern lights hunting is only possible during winter, and activities like ice caving in the Vatnajökull glacier are most popular at this time.
Others, like snorkeling in the Silfra fissure, develop a magical new charm in the snow and ice. Here are our recommendations for things to do in Iceland in February.
- See more: Best Winter Activities in Iceland
Spotting The Northern Lights in Iceland in February
One of the best things to do in Iceland in February is to marvel at the captivating aurora borealis in the cold night sky! In fact, the vast majority of travelers coming to Iceland throughout winter are likely coming to see the northern lights.
That's because there's reduced cloud cover and dark skies this time of year — the two magical ingredients to a northern lights hunt are clear skies and strong solar activity. The best spots to see them are outside of Reykjavik, as the light pollution in the city will compromise how bright the northern lights are. You can easily leave the city on tour, such as this affordable northern lights bus tour or this more unique northern lights cruise.
If you book a northern lights tour, it's best to take it as soon as you get to Iceland instead of waiting. The aurora borealis is unpredictable, so most operators will take you on a guided tour another time if you don't see the lights on the first attempt.
Another reason to try to see the northern lights early during your trip is that the tours can also be canceled if the forecast predicts cloudy skies and low intensity. You'll want as many chances as possible to see the northern lights. As a result, it's in your best interest to make time and be flexible if you don't see them the first time.
If you go hunting for the northern lights by yourself, check out the aurora forecast (anything above a 3 is considered worth setting out for) and the cloud cover forecast for the area.
If you're into photography, it's also worth making sure you have the right equipment and understand the correct settings for photographing the aurora borealis. Usually, the main requirement is staying patient while you wait.
If you want to maximize your chances, you can also book northern lights hotels for your stay. These accommodations are located in good viewing areas among nature. However, you will need to rent a car, as they're generally outside city limits.
- Check out How to Photograph the Northern Lights
Ice Caving in Iceland in February
If you're wondering what to do in Iceland in February, another great activity is ice caving. The opportunity to go on ice-caving tours is incredibly rare due to the inaccessibility of glaciers. Not to mention, particular conditions must be met for their formation.
Most ice cave tours usually begin between mid-October and early November and stop running in March. As a result, make sure you check ahead of time that your desired tour will be available during your trip.
One of the factors that can limit the accessibility of ice caves is rainfall. After flooding, they're structurally unsound, and tours have to be canceled. Although February is a rather wet month, the average precipitation level is slightly lower than the other winter months. This makes it one of the more promising times to book an ice cave tour.
This season, there are two main ice caves in Vatnajokull glacier: the Western and Eastern Ice Caves. Both are equally stunning, with unique features that make them some of the most remarkable ice caves in the region. The choice of which cave depends on daily conditions, as you will always be transported to the one offering the best experience that day.
The Western Ice Cave, known for its winding, crystal-blue walls, offers a more remote and exclusive experience. To reach it, you'll embark on a thrilling monster truck ride across the glacier — a one-of-a-kind experience you'll never forget!
The Eastern Ice Cave is just as breathtaking and has its own incredible ice formations and vibrant blue hues. While it may occasionally attract more visitors, it still promises a spectacular and unforgettable adventure.
Book your exclusive ice cave tour early, as spots fill quickly due to high demand. You’re always guaranteed an awe-inspiring ice-caving experience on the Vatnajökull glacier!
Whale Watching in Iceland in February
Photo from Classic 3-Hour Whale Watching Adventure from Reykjavik
Whale-watching tours are also conducted from Reykjavik in February. In fact, they're available throughout the year! More than twenty species of cetacean can be seen in Iceland's waters, and several of these species stay throughout the entire winter season.
White-beaked dolphins, known for their social nature and acrobatic antics, are the most common species during February. Many of them feed and play in Faxafloi bay by Reykjavik.
On the other hand, harbor porpoises are harder to spot than white-beaked dolphins, even though they're also native year-round. There are also orcas, pilot whales, and beaked whales that are all spotted on tours throughout February. Additionally, it's also possible to see minke whales that didn't migrate that year.
Like northern lights tours, operators may cancel whale-watching tours due to bad weather. There's also a chance you may not spot any marine life. If that's the case, you'll also be offered another trip for free. As such, be sure to take this excursion early on in your holiday so that you can repeat the tour in the future when conditions improve.
If you are joining a whale-watching tour, be sure to bring warm clothes to brace against the sea winds. Some operators will provide overalls that you can wear over your clothes for added comfort. But with the winds and low temperatures, wearing warm clothes is a must.
Lava Caving in Iceland in February
Lava caving is an enjoyable activity during February, even though it's a little more daunting than in the summer months. A major reason to take the tour in February is the beautiful structures of ice that form inside the tunnels.
Because lava rock is very porous, water trickles slowly through it. When the water seeps through the caves' ceilings, it often freezes in the sub-zero temperatures before dropping. This process slowly forms beautiful icicles — or mini-stalactites. The water that does seep through often freezes when it hits the ground, forming equally mesmerizing ice shapes.
- Learn more about Caves in Iceland
Photo from Family-Friendly 1.5 Hour Lava Cave Tour of Vidgelmir
This ice creates a glitter effect for those exploring within and allows for some magical photos. It can also, however, make the ground incredibly slippery. As a result, you should only partake in lava caving if you feel confident on uneven surfaces.
Tour operators will always provide you with crampons and a helmet to wear. That way, you won't need to worry about bringing any additional safety equipment with you on your journey.
If you want easier lava cave tours, look into this classic tour of Raufarholshellir lava cave or go explore Vidgelmir cave. Both of these are wide and open, require no climbing or crawling, and have walkways throughout to make your trip easier.
- See also: Top 7 Volcanic Experiences in Iceland
Swimming in Public Pools in Iceland in February
Public swimming pools in Iceland are a popular meeting place. Icelanders go swimming after work, on the weekends, and whenever they feel like relaxing with friends.
These are geothermal-heated pools and can be found in most towns around Iceland. In Reykjavik alone, there are seven public pool centers. The largest one has two Olympic-size pools (one indoor and one outdoor) as well as several smaller ones. They also have tubs of different temperatures and large public saunas.
Soaking in an outdoor heated pool while the air temperature is near or below freezing is one of the most unique and authentic experiences you'll have in Iceland. If you're planning a visit to Iceland in February, make sure to include it in your itinerary!
- See more: The Best Swimming Pools in Reykjavik
- Also, check out the 30 Best Hot Springs and Geothermal Pools in Iceland
Snorkeling in February in Iceland
In February, going on snorkeling tours in Iceland may seem like an activity only for daredevils. But with modern drysuit equipment, it becomes possible for almost anyone.
The snorkeling location, the Silfra fissure, is open year-round, and it's widely considered one of the top dive sites in the world. It's also the only place where you can swim between the continents at the meeting point of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates!
Silfra is located in Thingvellir National Park. It's a ravine filled with crystal clear spring water, with visibility that exceeds 330 feet (100 meters). Once inside, you'll enter an unforgettable world of magical blue light and fascinating geology.
- Learn about Scuba Diving and Snorkelling in Iceland
- See more: Tectonic Plates in Iceland and Where to Find Them
Photo from Unforgettable Silfra Snorkeling Tour with Underwater Photos & Transfer from Reykjavik
The only thing that can make this activity more wonderful is being surrounded by snow and ice while you swim. Snorkeling in a winter wonderland is a unique opportunity that can only be experienced in very few places worldwide. Moreover, there are even fewer snorkeling locations directly between two dividing tectonic plates!
It's also possible to go on diving tours in Silfra, but the participants must be qualified drysuit divers or have ten officially logged drysuit dives over the past two years. The conditions to snorkel in Silfra are as follows (though they may vary slightly between tour providers):
- You must be over 16 years old
- You must be able to swim
- You must be taller than 4 feet 7 inches (145 centimeters) and weigh more than 99 pounds (45 kilograms)
- You must have a medical waiver if over 60 years old
- You must have a medical waiver if over 45 years old and a heavy drinker or pipe smoker
- You must have a medical waiver if there are underlying neurological, circulatory, or respiratory problems
- You must not be pregnant
Glacier Hiking in Iceland in February
Photo from Adventurous 5-Hour Glacier Hike Tour in Skaftafell National Park
Glacier hiking tours run throughout the year in Iceland and are rewarding whenever you go. However, its appeal in February comes from the electric blue ice that covers the glaciers in midwinter and the ice caves that form across them.
The two main glaciers open for glacier hiking in February are the Solheimajokull glacier and the Svinafellsjokull glacier, both in South Iceland. With an experienced glacier guide, you can immerse yourself in these fascinating locations and learn a great deal about Iceland's geology.
- Check out the Ultimate Guide To Glacier Tours in Iceland
Horseback Riding in Iceland in February
Photo from Excellent 10-Hour Golden Circle & Horse Riding Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik
One thousand years of evolutionary isolation has turned the Icelandic horse into a strong and resilient animal — they can thrive even in cold February temperatures. Unless the conditions are bordering a blizzard, they're more than happy to be outside, socialize, and play in the snow. Thanks to their resilience, horse riding tours are available throughout the year!
Riding horses is a great way to immerse yourself in the winter landscapes of Iceland and to learn the history of a nation that relied on these steeds for its survival and prosperity. In addition to resistance to the cold, Icelandic horses also have a high level of curiosity and intelligence. These traits make them an absolute pleasure to spend a morning or afternoon with!
Riding an Icelandic Horse is one of the most authentic Icelandic experiences that you can partake in when visiting the country. Don't miss the chance to make it part of your February vacation!
- Learn more: The Icelandic Horse | A Comprehensive Guide
Sightseeing in Iceland in February
Although much of Iceland's interior and parts of the Westfjords are inaccessible throughout winter, many destinations are still accessible for sightseeing. In fact, it's possible to traverse the entire Ring Road, either as part of a guided package or by driving yourself.
Most travelers coming to Iceland seek its beautiful natural sites, and in February, you won't be disappointed. Below are four of our hand-picked personal recommendations for the best sightseeing destinations in February.
The Golden Circle in Iceland in February
Iceland's most popular tourist trail consists of three sites: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and the Gullfoss waterfall. Each is renowned for its dramatic beauty and unique charm, and most visitors to Iceland make an effort to see them. February is no exception.
Thingvellir is beautiful under a thick blanket of snow, and many of its features, such as the Oxarafoss waterfall, are at least partially frozen. The heat beneath the ground at the Geysir Geothermal Area makes it a plateau of multi-colored earth within a powdery white sea.
At this time of year, the Gullfoss waterfall will adorn the rocks surrounding it with crowns of frost. They will glisten beautifully beside the powerfully surging water.
Gullfoss waterfall can become even more spectacular if you're able to get just the right conditions for a shimmering rainbow. The spectacular natural beauty that can be seen in a relatively short time makes Golden Circle tours one of the most popular activities for visitors in Iceland.
The South Coast in Iceland in February
Another beautiful region of Iceland that is definitely worth visiting in February is the South Coast. The reason is simple — it has an enormous range of landscapes and landmarks.
There are the waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, the glaciers Solheimajokull and Vatnajokull, the volcanos Eyjafjallajokull, Katla, and Hekla, and awe-inspiring sites such as Skaftafell Nature Reserve, Reynisfjara black sand beach, the plane wreckage at Solheimasandur, and Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.
South Coast tours are incredibly popular throughout the year. One notable place you should know of is the wild coast at Reynisfjara beach.
There's no landmass between the Icelandic coastline and the rest of Europe, meaning that the waves can gather great strength as they travel longer distances. As a result, these waves can emerge unpredictably and have taken many people out to sea throughout the years. When visiting the wild coast, make sure to marvel at the waves from a safe distance.
- See more: The Ultimate Guide to Iceland's South Coast
- See also: Extremely dangerous Waves by Reynisfjara in South-Iceland
Lake Myvatn in Iceland in February
The Lake Myvatn region of North Iceland is a particularly excellent sightseeing destination in winter, especially for fans of the series Game of Thrones. Several scenes that took place north of The Wall were filmed here, such as the ones in the wildling camp of Mance Rayder. The famous underground love scene between Ygritte and Jon Snow was filmed in Grjotagja cave.
Geological formations protrude from the frozen surface of Lake Myvatn, and the snow-topped lava at Dimmuborgir (which translates to "Dark Fortress") creates a fascinating, ice-clad spectacle.
- Learn more: The Ultimate Guide to Lake Myvatn
- See also: The Ultimate Guide to Game of Thrones in Iceland
Snaefellsnes in Iceland in February
The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is a 56-mile (90-kilometer) stretch, often called "Iceland in Miniature." Travelers can expect volcanoes, mountains, lava fields, stunning beaches, geological formations, fields, and historic villages in February and throughout the year.
In February, the snow will cover the peninsula mountains, the rivers and waterfalls will be partially frozen, and the craggy coasts will captivate. At this time of year, it's also not uncommon to spot orcas from the shore. Snaefellsnes, in particular, is the best spot to view orcas in February.
While you can visit with Snaefellsnes tours, we recommend spending at least two days exploring the region. There's so much to see and plenty of comfortable Snaefellsnes accommodations to choose from during your stay!
- Discover the Top 16 Things to Do on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
- See also: Top 11 Frozen Waterfalls in Iceland to See in Winter
Festivals and Festivities in Iceland
While most tourists come to Iceland seeking its natural wonders, many also come for the vibrant festival scene of Reykjavik. Not a month goes by without events gripping the capital, drawing visitors and locals alike. Below, you can find some of the major events in Iceland during February.
- Discover the Top 20 Festivals in Iceland
Winter Lights Festival
The Winter Lights Festival occurs every year on the first weekend of February. It's a celebration of the lengthening of the days and the beauty of the wintery world.
The festival begins when lights across the city are turned on. It's then followed by days of cultural events covering everything from music and sports to art and history.
Two unmissable nights of the festival are Museum Night and Pool Night. On these nights, the city's museums and public pools offer unique entertainment.
Thorrablot
Photo from Wikimedia Creative Commons
Thorrablot is a cultural festival that takes place from the end of January to the second half of February, based on the lunar month of Thorri on the old Norse calendar. During this festival, Icelanders honor their ancestors and their customs in several different ways. One way they do so is by dining on various foods that have been eaten in Iceland through the centuries.
While a few of the foods served during the month of Thorri might not seem appealing to outsiders, eating them was necessary for surviving Iceland's harsh environment. Some of them include "hákarl" (fermented shark), "svið" (boiled sheep's head), or "hrútspungar" (ram's testicles). If you're not the adventurous type, there are plenty of other delicious traditional meals to enjoy. Other foods include the "hangikjöt" smoked lamb, rye bread or "rúgbrauð," or the "harðfiskur" stockfish, which goes great with butter.
Thorrablot is not typically a festival with a program or planned events throughout the city, as it's more of a month-long celebration of Iceland's history and culture. For example, dinner parties are often held for extended families. Some companies even have Thorrablot banquets for their employees. However, there's no huge event downtown that's open to the public.
However, many of these delicacies are sold in supermarkets in Iceland during the months of January and February. So, if you're visiting Iceland during that time, you can buy traditional Icelandic food and have yourself a little Thorrablot for you and your traveling party!
Want to make the most of your February in Iceland? Consider joining this traditional Icelandic food tour or this guided food walking tour of Reykjavik.
- Learn more about Disgusting Food in Iceland
- See also: Icelandic Food: The Ultimate Guide to Iceland Food Culture
Valentine's Day in Iceland
Icelanders don't celebrate Valentine's Day like people in other countries, but the date is slowly becoming a popular celebration. Some luxury hotels and restaurants have begun to offer special packages and meals on February 14th for visiting couples.
If you're planning to be in Iceland on Valentine's Day, you can make it extra special by booking a table at one of the best restaurants in Reykjavik, which may offer a special menu. Another option is booking a spa day at the Blue Lagoon! In addition to swimming in the idyllic milky-blue warm pools, you can also experience luxurious spa treatments! These go from a two-hour massage to facial treatments using products such as algae, silica, and other minerals.
Women's Day
An important day on the Icelandic calendar is Women's Day, or "konudagur" in Icelandic, which is celebrated in the second half of February. Women's Day is an Icelandic tradition to honor the women of the house and is tied to the Norse calendar. This lunisolar calendar is 13 months long, based on the lunar cycle, and was used during the settlement of Iceland.
The date of this holiday falls on the first day of the month of Goa on the Norse calendar. On Women's Day, men celebrate the important women in their life. They bring them flowers, take them out for dinner, and offer them some special presents. Women's Day is not just a romantic festivity, as children will also give their mothers flowers or presents to celebrate the day.
If you were wondering, Icelanders also celebrate Men's Day in a similar way, which is in the lunar month of Thorri (the month before Goa) and takes place in the second half of January.
The Best Things to Do in Reykjavik in February
As mentioned previously, anyone visiting Iceland in February needs to prepare for winter weather — and not just by packing warm clothes. If one of your tours was called off because of heavy snowfall and dangerous conditions, having alternative plans is a must. Fortunately, there's no shortage of fun activities to enjoy in Reykjavik, even on rainy afternoons. You can spend an entire day in the capital and still find more to do the next day!
- Learn more: 13 Best Cheap Things to Do in Reykjavik
- See also: Reykjavik City Buses: The Ultimate Guide
Walking Tours
Taking walking tours in Reykjavik in February is one of the best ways to experience the city's history and daily life. Despite the cold Icelandic weather in February, guided walking tours are comfortably paced and allow you to warm up indoors between stops. You can explore major landmarks like the Hallgrímskirkja church, Harpa concert hall, and the Old Harbour while learning about Iceland's Viking roots and modern culture.
Many tours are led by locals, giving you insights into the country's culture and history. Walking tours are among the most enriching things to do in Reykjavik in February if you have a hard time staying in one place, as they combine fresh Icelandic air with education and storytelling.
- See more: Viking Walking Tour
Restaurants
The coldness of Iceland in February makes warm meals even more satisfying, and Reykjavik's culinary scene excels in crafting delicious seasonal dishes. There are numerous top-rated restaurants to choose from that reflect both traditional Nordic flavors and other cuisines.
Visit Sjávargrillið for a divine seafood lunch, or dine at Fjallkonan for unique dishes. If you wish to connect with the local culture through food, eating out is one of the best things to do in Iceland in February!
Cafés
Reykjavik’s cafés are ideal for escaping the February chill while enjoying Icelandic coffee culture. Popular cafés such as Reykjavik Roasters and Café Babalú offer freshly brewed coffee, homemade pastries, and a cozy atmosphere that feels especially welcoming on snowy days.
The weather in Iceland in February often encourages slow and cozy afternoons, making cafés the perfect stop between sightseeing adventures. No matter how cold and snowy it is outside, visiting local cafés will always be one of the top things to do in Reykjavik in February.
- See also: The Best Bakeries in Reykjavik
Museums
Museums in Reykjavik offer warm and engaging indoor experiences that are perfect for visiting Iceland in February. The National Museum of Iceland provides an in-depth look at the country’s history, from Viking settlement to modern times.
The Perlan Museum, located in a landmark dome building, offers interactive exhibits on Icelandic nature, glaciers, and volcanoes — ideal for families and curious travelers alike. Exploring museums is one of the best things to do in Iceland in February, especially when the weather turns windy or snowy.
- Read More: Top 11 Museums in Reykjavik | History, Culture & Vikings!
- See More: Top 12 Art Museums and Galleries in Reykjavik
Family Activities
Aren't sure what to do with young kids in the Reykjavik area? Don't worry, as there are many family-friendly things to do in the capital!
Laugardalslaug, a geothermal swimming pool in the Laugardalur area, offers warm outdoor baths and children's pools. Additionally, the Whales of Iceland museum features life-sized whale models and interactive exhibits that educate and entertain children and adults alike.
Shops
When you need a break from outdoor adventures, shopping is one of the top things to do in Iceland in February weather. Local shops offer high-quality Icelandic wool products, including sweaters and hats that help you stay warm in the cold weather in Iceland in February.
You’ll find boutiques selling knitwear, lava jewelry, skincare products made with volcanic minerals, and local art. Exploring Reykjavik’s shopping streets gives you access to unique souvenirs you won't find elsewhere. In addition, it gives you the chance to support local artisans!
- Learn More: Opening Hours for Shops in Reykjavik
Suggested Itineraries for Iceland in February
Now that you know all there is to know about touring Iceland In February, we'd like to suggest a couple of hand-picked itineraries that will help you make the most of your stay. These suggestions are based on the number of days you have in Iceland. That way, you can easily amend them to suit your personal tastes, plans, and budget.
The Stopover Traveler Itinerary (4 Days)
The four-day (i.e., long weekend) Stopover Traveler Itinerary begins with arrival in Iceland and taking an airport transfer bus from Keflavik International Airport to the Blue Lagoon. For this, you can book your Blue Lagoon comfort ticket with a transfer from the airport, and then to Reykjavik.
Here, you can soak in the azure waters to unwind from your long flight. Once you've enjoyed a silica mask and some good relaxation, you'll head to your Reykjavik hotel and settle in. There, you'll have time to wander the city and take in the sites before visiting a restaurant.
Since you only have a few days, you'll want to make the most of your time. For that reason, you should book a two-day tour that will take you across the South Coast. This allows you to see the region's many sites and explore an ice cave. To do so, you'll have to wake up early on the second day to meet your guide, hop into the minibus, and start the tour.
You'll get to see many of South Iceland's great sites: majestic waterfalls, otherworldly black sand beaches, and the spectacular Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. As you reach this final destination later in the day, you'll hunt for the northern lights while checking out the glacier lagoon.
Enjoying the northern lights dancing above the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon in greens, blues, purples, and reds, is one of the most breathtaking sights anyone can behold!
The next morning, guides will take you to the Vatnajokull glacier to explore the ice caves. Venturing through tunnels of ethereal blue ice will undoubtedly be your holiday's highlight.
After marveling at one of nature's greatest wonders, you'll head back along the South Coast to Reykjavik. Once you've returned to the capital, you'll check back into your hotel and have a taste of the city's nightlife.
Your departure will most likely be late afternoon on day four, leaving just enough time for a quick morning tour. We recommend this horseback ride through beautiful lava fields.
After this authentic Icelandic adventure is complete, you can catch a Flybus shuttle back to the airport, marking the end of this short but rewarding holiday to Iceland in February. If you're able to stay another day, we recommend this minibus tour of the Golden Circle.
The Getaway Traveler Itinerary (10+ Days)
The Getaway Traveler Itinerary requires a minimum of 10 days to fully immerse yourself in February's winter landscapes. We recommend this 10-day Ring Road of Iceland self-drive tour or this 10-day South Coast and Snaefellsnes peninsula self-drive tour. Both itineraries will allow you to explore the highlights of Iceland's magical landscape at your own pace.
However, if you have little experience driving on icy roads, you may prefer to choose from the selection of vacation packages and guided tours. These are two of the most popular packages:
- A 9-day minibus tour of the Ring Road, including the East Fjords and Lake Myvatn.
- A 10-day tour that allows you to immerse yourself in the south, along with the Landmannalaugar geothermal area and the beautiful Snaefellsnes peninsula
The getaway traveler should aim to see the northern sites like Lake Myvatn without missing the Snaefellsnes peninsula. Buying a package is the easiest way to organize your trip and ensure you make the most of your visit to Iceland in February.
Although Iceland is cold and dark in February, it's still a lovely place to visit, and the people are warm and welcoming! You'll be able to experience the ever-growing balance between night and day, the relative lack of crowds, and the wealth of winter activities. Thanks to these traits and more, the month of February has a charm that's sure to make your Iceland winter vacation extra special!
Whether you're planning on a stopover or a couple of weeks visiting Iceland in February, there are many wonderful places to see and activities to do. What would you most like to try? Have you visited Iceland in winter? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
