Iceland in December: All You Need to Know

Things to Do in Iceland in December

Soak in Hot Pools

With nearly 20 swimming pools in Reykjavik alone and many more hot springs around the country, Iceland offers plenty of swimming opportunities. A relaxing dip in a steaming geothermal pool with a drink in your hand, on a dark Icelandic night is deeply satisfying. And it’s even more special when it snows. 

Not packing a swimsuit on a winter visit to Iceland would be a big mistake!

Go Ice Skating at Ingólfstorg Square

There’s no better way to get into a festive mood than ice skating! The famous Ingólfstorg square in downtown Reykjavik turns into a winter wonderland for the entire month of December. The ice rink and surrounding Christmas market guarantee a merry atmosphere. Strap on your ice skates and prepare to glide with good old Christmas songs playing in the background.

Admission is free if you bring your own skates and helmets (or rent them onsite).

Snorkel at Silfra Fissure 

If you think that snorkeling is only a summer activity, come to Silfra in the winter! Here at Silfra Fissure, snorkelers and divers can explore the underwater world between tectonic plates all year round. Snowy fields at Thingvellir National Park add an extra spark to winter snorkeling experiences. To make it even more idyllic, a cup of hot chocolate at the end of the dip quickly warms up those who feel a little chilly.

Things to See in Iceland in December

Ice Caves

Ice caves are the most stable during December, one of the coldest months. It means that you’ve got the best chances to see the true beauty of glacier ice from inside the caves and not get your feet wet.

Iceland offers plenty of ice-caving opportunities. Explore an ice cave under an active volcano, visit a man-made ice tunnel or pierce the heart of the blue Crystal ice cave.

THE NORTHERN LIGHTS

December is one of the best months to see the Northern Lights in Iceland. With little daylight, the dark sky allows plenty of opportunities to watch the natural phenomenon. If you’re lucky you may catch a glimpse of auroras in the sky above you while relaxing in a hot pot. That’s a one-of-a-kind experience! 

Make sure to check the aurora forecast before you go on the Northern Lights hunt in December. The stronger the aurora, the more impressive lights will paint the sky.

Events and Festivals in Iceland in December

There are a lot of exciting events happening in Iceland during December, not to mention the biggest year’s celebrations – Christmas and New Year. 

Christmas in Iceland

Christmas celebration in Iceland is a huge thing with its own unique traditions. What does Icelandic Christmas look like? First of all, the Icelandic kids are visited not by one but by 13 Santas! Icelandic Santas, known as “Yule Lads,” are actually trolls dressed up as Santas. Yule Lads are an inseparable part of Icelandic Christmas. Each of these trolls is known for mischievous traits, like licking dirty spoons, slamming doors, or stealing food.

During Christmas time, Reykjavik's streets are filled with lights and decorations. You'll hear the phrase "Gledileg jol!" meaning "Merry Christmas" everywhere you go. 

New Year’s Eve in Iceland

New Year’s Eve is a huge deal in Iceland. On this occasion, people fill the streets of Reykjavik to watch the incredible fireworks. The festive mood is everywhere you look. 

The end of the old year and the beginning of the new one is celebrated by a 10-kilometer run through Reykjavik. What’s peculiar about this run is that its participants are dressed in costumes, and the best costume even gets a prize! After a run, everyone gathers in Harpa for some refreshments.

Winter Solstice

December 21st marks the darkest day of the year, and Icelanders have a very special way of mentioning it. On this day every year, the Imagine Peace Tower is being relit until New Year’s Eve on December 31st. 

The light installation was created by Yoko Ono in memory of John Lennon. The monument, standing on Viðey Island in Kollafjörður Bay, has the words “Imagine Peace” written in 24 languages.

What to Know Before Visiting Iceland in December

Iceland might be cheaper in December

December is the low season for tourism, so you’re more likely to find cheap flights to Iceland just before Christmas or right after. Some of the other activities in the city might also be cheaper, as well as day tours and entrance fees to certain attractions. On the other hand, make sure to check the opening times for museums and swimming pools, as they might be open shorter than during the summer days. Also, keep in mind that festive days might affect the opening times too.

Days are the shortest

Every day in December has around four hours of daylight, and the 21st of December is the shortest day of the year. How do Icelanders deal with short days? The answer is simple — they make the most of the daylight and don’t worry about the darkness. Sightseeing, while the sun is up, and immersing in steaming geothermal pools when the sky goes dark, might just be the answer!

Christmas traditions

To get in the true Christmas spirit, follow Icelandic Christmas traditions! Why don’t you place a shoe in the window for the Yule Lads to leave presents in? Or craft a delicious Laufabrauð with your friends or family? Iceland has plenty of traditions to get you into the festive spirit. 

Oh, and if you truly want to commit to these traditions, don’t forget to wear warm clothes on Christmas Eve, just to avoid being gobbled by the Christmas Cat.

New Year’s Eve

If you head out to celebrate the New Year at 10:30 pm on New Year's Eve and there’s not a single soul outside, don’t worry, you didn’t mix-up the dates. Everyone’s at home, watching Áramótaskaupið, Iceland’s annual comedy special that glues most of the nation to their televisions. 

As soon as the show is over, around midnight, everyone heads out and the real party begins. Prepare for plenty of fireworks, bonfires, and smiley faces! Icelanders know how to celebrate the New Year.

Iceland Weather in December

December is one of the coldest months in Iceland. The average temperature varies from 28°F (-2°C) to 49°F (4°C). It can feel rather frosty outside the city because the wind is quite harsh, so we recommend you don’t get tricked by these seemingly mild temperatures. Just like during any other month in Iceland, you can never tell what the weather will be like. 

If you’re a fan of white Christmas’, you’re likely to get that in Iceland. Just keep in mind that snow and ice can get very thick, especially in rural areas. Be especially careful while driving in Iceland in December. If you don’t feel comfortable driving a rental car, the best idea is to join guided multi-day tours or go on a day trip, where you won’t have to worry about road conditions.

What to Pack for Iceland in December

There’s only one rule when it comes to packing your clothes for Iceland, and it also applies when you travel to Iceland in December. Dress in layers. The more layers you dress in, the more comfortable you’ll be, no matter the weather. Remember this golden rule and also consider packing:

A Warm Jacket

Waterproof Winter Shoes

Gloves and a warm hat

A Balaclava

A Swimsuit

A Towel

While there’s not much daylight in December, the sun gets pretty intense during that short time when it’s up. Packing a pair of sunglasses is also a good idea!

Best Tours in Iceland for December