Iceland in December: Christmas Magic in the Land of Fire and Ice
                     Iceland in December:
Christmas in the 
Land of Fire and Ice
Visitors willing to brave the cold will be well 
rewarded with the chance to see Iceland’s 
stunning landscapes encased in ice and snow. 
They’ll also likely have all the major sites to 
themselves. Another factor to contend with for 
December in Iceland is that the country comes 
alive with Christmas festivities!
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Is December  a  good December  Overview: Iceland Win t e r  Travel
t ime  to  visit Iceland?
Yes, it is a  good time to visit 
Iceland, as the country 
becomes a  winter wonderland 
in December. Black sand 
beaches coated in a  light layer 
of snow, frozen waterfalls, and 
pop-up blizzards may all make 
an appearance on your trip. Daylight Aurora Weather Roads Crowds Prices
4 hours High Cold Icy Low Cheaper
W h a t  is the  weather  in Iceland 
in December?
December is the heart of winter in Iceland. Believe it or not, this is the 
snowiest, darkest month of the entire year. With over 20 inches of snow 
on average and yet, still almost 3 inches of rain, you can imagine that 
things get a  little dicey when it comes to the weather.
Embrace  the  Chill
The cold is a  part of the Icelandic experience in December. While it 
might be chilly, the frost-covered landscapes provide a  unique, 
picturesque view that you won’t find during other times of the year.
W h a t  is the  tempera tu re  in Iceland  in 
December?
The average temperature in Iceland in December is around 32°F (0°C). 
Daytime highs reach about 37°F (3°C), while nightti me lows can drop to 
around 27°F (-3°C), but can plummet even further depending on the 
weather.
Ho w  ma n y  hours o f  day l igh t  in Iceland 
in December?
Iceland daylight hours December are just four hours a  day with the 
sun rising in Reykjavik at 11:30 am and setti ng between 3:30 pm 
(15:30). In general, December in Iceland have the shortest days of 
the year in Iceland.
Driving conditions will begin to be treacherous on some roads. It’s 
recommended to rent a  4×4 vehicle and to put snow chains on your 
tires if you plan on driving far.
W h a t  to  We a r  in Iceland in 
December
December in Iceland is downright frigid. You’ll need to pack accordingly 
to stay toasty warm for a  trip during this month. All the winter 
essentials like a  hat, gloves, and scarf are must haves. Waterproof, 
insulated coats that extend down to your knees are ideal for keeping 
the biti ng wind at bay.
L ayer  Up!
Layering is crucial when visiting Iceland in December. Consider packing a  mix of 
merino wool and synthetic clothing. These materials are not only warm but also quick 
drying which is a  bonus in the damp weather.
W h a t  shoes to  wear  in Iceland
As far as shoes go you’ll need waterproof, preferably insulated boots. Even in 
Reykjavik, the snow can pile up and normal tennis shoes simply won’t cut it. Also 
consider bringing along a  thermal base layer, ideal for keeping your core body in. 
Here is a  complete shoe guide.
Ho w to  Pack for  Ice land in December
Knowing how to pack for Iceland in December comes down to keeping warm, dry and 
comfortable. Stick to the basics: thermal base layers, sweater and a  waterproof winter 
coat. Add in a  hat, gloves, scarf wool socks. Waterproof boots with good grip are non- 
negotiable for icy streets and outdoor adventures and waterproof pants are essential 
for staying dry and warm in snowy or slushy conditions. A  swimsuit is also a  must if 
you plan to relax in Iceland´s hot springs or swimming pools.
Can  you see the  northern  lights in Iceland in December?
Yes, absolutely! December is one of the best months for viewing the northern 
lights.
How to hunt  northern Best place for  northern 
lights in Iceland? lights in Iceland?
Hunti ng the northern lights in Iceland is The best places to see the northern 
all about timing and conditions and lights in Iceland are Þingvellir National 
December offers excellent opportunities Park, the South Coast Snæfellsnes 
thanks to the long dark nights. The Peninsula and Grótta Lighthouse in 
aurora depends on solar activity and Seltjarnarnes, just outside of Reykjavík.
clear skies and while the weather can 
change quickly, cold winter nights often Tip from Firefly🚗: Booking a guided 
bring better visibility when heavy snow Northern Lights tour can increase your 
is not falling. chances of a  sighting. Local experts 
know the best locations and times to 
To increase you chances, head away catch this spectacular phenomenon. But 
from towns and cities to escape light if you´d rather explore at your own 
pollution, check the aurora forecast and pace, renting a  car and heading out on 
find a  quiet spot where the sky is clear. a  self-drive Northern lights hunt is just 
Best of all, seeing the northern lights as exciting. Giving you the freedom to 
can be free as all you really need is chase clear skies wherever the forecast 
warm clothes, time and a  dark sky. looks best.
Best Things to D o  in Iceland in December
At first glance December might seem like a  bad time to visit the Land of Fire and Ice. Snow starts to cover the streets and darkness 
seems to engulf this small island country. What most visitors don’t realize is that life doesn’t stop in Iceland because of the cold! in 
fact, locals happily go out for ice cream in the middle of winter and yes even in December. It´s a  reminder that while the days are 
darker and colder, Iceland in December is full of life, warmth and unique experience waiting to be discovered.
Ice cream drive Road Trip on 
One cheap and very Icelandic activity is to grab 
an ice cream and head out on a  little “ice cream Iceland Ring Road
drive”. cruising through Reykjavík and the Iceland’s Route 1 is a  circular loop around the 
surrounding neighborhoods while enjoying the country and the perfect road trip for those who 
festive lights and winter atmosphere. For a rent their own set of wheels. Many of Iceland´s 
blizzard-style treat go to Ísbúð Huppa or Ísbúð most popular attractions are much quieter in 
Vesturbæjar while Valdís and Skúbb are go-to December, so you can enjoy stunning spots like 
spots for a  scoop of Ice crem. waterfalls and black sand beaches without heavy 
summer crowds.
Christmas Iceland Hot  Springs
December is a  time of celebration in Iceland as Free hot springs: If you´d like something free, 
the Christmas season begins. Reykjavik, the there are natural hot springs not far from the 
country’s capital, becomes a  shimmering beacon capital. Hraunlaug near Flúðir offers a  cozy old 
with Christmas lights adorning the streets, stone pool just a  short stroll from the car park. 
houses, and public spaces, creating a  magical While Klambragi near Þingvellir is a  rustic spot 
ambiance that can captivate anyone. along the trail. For something right in the city 
the Kvika Footbath in Reykjavik lets you soak 
your feet while looking out over the ocean.
Glacier Hiking &  Golden Circle
Ice Caves One of the most iconic and recommended activities when visiting Iceland, especially in 
December, is exploring the Golden Circle. This 
Winter in Iceland might get a  bad rap for 
popular route offers a  spectacular showcase of 
having frosty weather but it’s the best time to 
the country’s natural wonders and geological 
explore the country’s ice caves! Step inside a  ice 
marvels, all within a  day’s drive from Reykjavik.
cave and you´ll find sparkling blue caverns, 
frozen into incredible shapes that look like nature
´s own artwork.
Iceland in December  self-drive t ravel  guide
Overall, December is a  great time to visit Iceland. Christmas cheer is in the air and festivities are taking place and Iceland has 
thoroughly transformed into a  winter wonderland. There’s no better way to see Iceland, even in December, than by renting a  car.
Not only will it afford you the freedom to utilize your few hours of daylight wisely but it can also be a  great way to chase the 
northern lights. Book your rental car with Firefly Iceland Car  Rental for the best rates in the country.
For December travel, renting a  cheap 4×4 is especially worthwhile. The added traction and clearance make driving on snowy or icy 
roads much safer, while still keeping your budget in check. Firefly offers affordable 4×4 options that give you the flexibility to explore 
winter highlights like the Golden Circle, South Coast or even northern lights for you to enjoy at our own pace.
G e t in 
Touch
Our friendly team is ready to 
help you every step of the 
way.
W e b s i t e
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P h o n e
+354 522 00  22
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