Iceland is a stunning destination to visit year-round, with each season offering its own unique charm.  The country experiences only about 4-5 hours of daylight, casting a soft glow over the landscape. This limited daylight is perfect for cozying up in charming cafes with a hot chocolate or exploring the beauty of frozen waterfalls. As night falls, the sky often comes alive with the Northern Lights, adding to the magical charm of the season. The festive atmosphere, with homes decorated with Christmas lights to light up the dark, and the warm Icelandic traditions, makes December a truly special time to visit.

If Christmas is your favourite season, then Iceland in December is your ideal destination. Discover why it should be on your holiday itinerary! 

1. Explore Reykjavik’s Christmas Markets

Reykjavik, the capital city, transforms into a winter wonderland with its charming Christmas markets. Stroll through the stalls at Ingólfstorg Square, where you can find handmade crafts, festive decorations, and delicious Icelandic treats. Don’t miss the Yule Town at Hafnarfjörður, a nearby town known for its Viking history and cozy market atmosphere.

2. Witness the Northern Lights

One of the most awe-inspiring experiences in Iceland is witnessing the Northern Lights. The long, dark nights of winter provide the perfect time to go Northern Light hunting. Join a guided tour for a stress-free experience, where your guide will find the ideal spot for you to see the auroras. Don't forget to dress warmly!

3. Experience the Icelandic Christmas Traditions

Icelandic Christmas traditions are delightfully quirky. The 13 Yule Lads, each with their own unique pranks, visit children in the 13 nights leading up to Christmas. From Spoon-Licker to Door-Slammer, they add a playful twist to the season. Another unique tradition is the “Christmas Book Flood” or “Jólabókaflóð,” where new books are released leading up to Christmas. These books are then given as gifts on Christmas Eve and families spend the vacation reading. And on December 23rd, there’s the tradition of eating fermented skate, a dish with a strong smell that’s definitely an acquired taste!
These are just to name a few! Join the guided tour Funky Christmas Myths and Traditions, for a journey through Iceland’s dark and twisted traditions with a local guide.  

4. Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Reykjavik

Reykjavik is known for its spectacular New Year’s Eve celebrations. The city comes alive with fireworks, bonfires, and parties. Join the locals at one of the many bonfires around the city on a guided tour. Then head to a rooftop or a high vantage point to watch the midnight fireworks display or even take it to the next level and celebrate the New Year’s at sea, heading out from Reykjavík shores to watch the magnificent firework from sea, a truly unique event!

Firework show by the bonfire. 

5. Enjoy a Christmas Concert at Harpa

One of the favourite ways for Icelanders to start the Christmas season is by enjoying beautiful Christmas music at the numerous concerts held around town. Some have a tradition of attending specific concerts, while others try to experience as many as possible. A standout venue for these festive concerts is the unique Harpa concert hall. Harpa offers a packed schedule of Christmas events for you to enjoy. Check out their event calendar to see what’s happening during your visit. Experiencing Christmas music in this stunning venue is sure to get you into the holiday spirit!

6. Taste the Flavors of Icelandic Christmas Traditions

Go on a delicious adventure through Reykjavik’s festive traditions with the Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour. Guided by locals, you’ll explore Iceland’s cherished holiday cuisine and beverages, savoring smoked lamb, laufabrauð, glazed Hamborgarhryggur, reindeer paté, graflax, and pickled herring. Enjoy festive drinks like Jólaöl, Jólaglögg or hot cocoa. The tour concludes at the cozy Little Christmas Store, where you can find holiday decorations and receive a local gift, all while engaging in lively discussions about Icelandic culinary traditions amidst the festive atmosphere of Reykjavik.

7. Go Ice Skating

Is it really a Christmas trip without ice skating? In the city there are three magical spots for Christmas Skating:

Tjörnin:  A favourite among locals for years, this natural spot is however very weather-dependent, so ensure the ice is thick enough before venturing out. Feel free to ask in city hall (located next to the pond) to confirm if it is safe to head out onto the pond. If you don’t have skates, you can still enjoy walking on the ice in regular shoes.

Nova Skating Rink: Located at Ingólfstorg Square, this rink is surrounded by a charming Christmas market. With over 100,000 lights and festive music, it’s a magical experience. It’s perfect for families, offering plastic seals to help little ones learn to skate. 

Hjartasvellið: Another delightful option, Hjartasvellið located in Hafnafjörður, offers a cozy and festive atmosphere for ice skating. It’s a great spot to enjoy the holiday spirit with friends and family.

Skating at Tjörnin, Reykjavík. 

8. Visit Árbær Open Air Museum

Árbær Open Air Museum is a great place to visit year-round, but it becomes magical during Christmas. Every Sunday in Advent, the museum hosts festive activities that showcase Icelandic Christmas traditions. You can see how the traditional laufabrauð is made, and taste dishes like hangikjöt and skate fish. The Icelandic Yule Lads visit, and there are Christmas song sing-alongs. Experience the charm of an Icelandic Christmas at Árbær!

9. Take a Golden Circle Tour

The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route that includes some of Iceland’s most famous natural attractions: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. A winter tour of the Golden Circle offers a different perspective with snow-covered landscapes and fewer crowds. Combine the Golden Circle and the Christmas traditions on this guided tour.

Gullfoss waterfall, Golden Circle. 

10. Relax in a Cozy Cabin

For a more tranquil holiday experience, consider renting a cozy cabin in the Icelandic countryside. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, go for winter walks, and maybe even spot the Northern Lights from your doorstep. Search through the various accommodations in the countryside and find your perfect stay here.

Happy Holidays, or as we say in Iceland, Gleðileg jól og farsælt komandi ár! 

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