Reykjavik in winter has short days and long, dark nights. Daylight is only a few hours around midwinter. The city is walkable, but pavements can be icy.
What Reykjavik is like in winter
Around Christmas and New Year the city has lights, markets, and fireworks. Warm, non-slip footwear helps.
Northern lights and short days
The northern lights can sometimes be seen from dark spots in and near the city, including over the city, as covered in Northern lights in Reykjavik. Winter is the season for day trips to south coast ice caves and for northern lights tours from the city.
Warm pools and indoor stops
The geothermal pools stay open through winter, with warm water and outdoor hot tubs, as covered in Reykjavik swimming pools. The Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon are open in winter for geothermal bathing. Museums, cafes, and attractions such as Perlan and FlyOver Iceland give indoor options on cold days.
Planning a winter city break and Reykjavik tours
You can compare Reykjavik tours to see the current options.
Get ready for the day
For a visit or activity connected with Reykjavik in Winter: Short Days, Warm Pools, the Iceland Packing List is a useful starting point for what to bring.
