It wouldn’t be incorrect to state that Iceland in December is a paradise for winter enthusiasts. With just the appropriate level of cold, it provides the most incredible experiences for a vacation like no other. The country looks absolutely stunning and is enveloped in breathtaking beauty throughout the month. So, there clearly isn’t any reason why you shouldn’t consider visiting it during this period.
And just to convince your heart and give you a glimpse of what’s in store for you, here’s everything essential!
Climate In Iceland In December
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With the temperature ranging from -1°C to 4°C, December in Iceland is pleasantly chilly and tolerable. Being the darkest month, the days during this time are the shortest and nights truly stunning. The dancing Aurora Borealis covers the sky for most of the night, while the daylight stays for only four hours. Visit Reykjavik in December to especially witness the Northern lights. To summarize, Iceland in December climate is truly frigid and snowy.
Apart from the northern lights, the darkness in this month is illuminated by the warmth of the Christmas lights, which make the place look even more magical. If you plan to visit Iceland in December, make sure you don’t forget to bring your warm woolens and clothing with additional layers.
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Reasons Why You Must Visit Iceland In December
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- December is one of the most exquisite months of the year in Iceland
- You can fly to Iceland and stay anywhere without spending a fortune
- Iceland northern lights in December should be the top motivation
- Iceland is less crowded during this period
- A backdrop for popular shows like Game Of Thrones, Iceland during this month will give you the right ambiance
- There are numerous Iceland December activities that can be tried out
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15 Experiences To Enjoy In Iceland In December
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Grótta Lighthouse or Klambratún Park in Reykjavik
Rent a car and drive to a location with a pristine dark sky
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Take a northern lights tour with knowledgeable guides
- 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM and 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM from Monday to Friday
- 5:30 PM to 11:30 PM from Saturday to Sunday
In the event that you are visiting Iceland in December, here are the essential experiences you should have during your Nordic winter getaway to make it enjoyable.
1. Blue Lagoon
Home to numerous thermal springs, warm pools, and heated tubs, the winter season in Iceland is a perfect time to take a plunge and revitalize yourself. And out of all the places to choose from, the Blue Lagoon is the ultimate destination to visit. Staying true to its name, the geothermal spa’s seawater appears remarkably blue only during the winter months, which adds to the allure of this location.
Hours: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily
Location: Nordurljosavegur 9, 240 Grindavík, Iceland
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2. Aurora Borealis
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There is no doubt that December, being the darkest month of the year, offers the best opportunity to witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis. With only four hours of daylight, there is ample time to chase the dancing lights in the clear night sky. This experience will not only leave you amazed but also completely enthralled. It is truly one of the must-see attractions in Iceland during December.
Best Location for Viewing Aurora Borealis in Iceland:
3. Glacial Ice Caves
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Freezing Season in Iceland is precisely when ice caving starts to become nearly perfect, and exploring them is just the encounter you need to optimize your vacation. With a knowledgeable guided tour, you can uncover some of the finest and “too true to be lovely” looking caves during your journey.
Expense: $170 depending on the tour you reserveTop Spots to Witness Ice Caves in Iceland: Jökulsárlón, Skaftafell Nature Reserve, Vatnajökull, and more.
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4. Majestic Gullfoss Waterfall
Situated in Southwest Iceland, the Gullfoss Waterfall in the south is a treat for the eyes and is an essential place to include in your Iceland itinerary for December. The stunning vistas of the golden water against the mountains are breathtaking, and the cafe offering piping hot soups here only enhances the experience, resulting in a magical moment.
Hours of Operation: Open 24/7Location: White River, Blaskogabyggd 801, Iceland
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5. Preserving Memories
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Although December might only offer four hours of daylight, it provides an incredible amount of illumination at noon that is ideal for capturing splendid photographs. The natural light acts as a fantastic backdrop for accentuating the beauty of Iceland, and we can guarantee that you will return home with numerous memories captured through your camera lens.
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6. Sightseeing Excursion
Apart from Gullfoss and Blue Lagoon, Iceland is host to numerous breathtaking locations and a sightseeing tour is the optimal way to ensure you don’t miss out on witnessing any wonders. From cathedrals to waterfalls and national parks to villages, there are plenty of remarkable places to explore in Iceland during December.
Best Places To See In Iceland: Hallgrímskirkja, Vatnajokull National Park, Pingvellir, Jokulsarlon, Harpa, and more.
7. Hotel Rangá
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While there are many lodging options in Iceland, none provide an experience quite like Hotel Ranga. From comfortable accommodations to exquisite dining by the riverside, this hotel also boasts the opportunity to witness the aurora borealis from its location. Additionally, there are numerous adventures and activities to partake in.
Price: $335 to $930 (double-sharing)
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5
Location: Suðurlandsvegur, 851 Hella, Iceland
Website | Reviews
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8. Snowmobile Ride
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Of all the activities to engage in during December in Iceland, snowmobiling on the glaciers is an experience worth embracing. While you may not encounter an abundance of snow, the thrill of racing across the ice for nearly an hour is ideal for both sightseeing and embarking on an adventure. Skiing in Iceland during December is another potential endeavor.
Expenses: $237 and moreTimeframe: 4 hours and more depending on the selected tour
9. Grillmarkadurinn
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Iceland offers an abundance of fantastic dining and drinking establishments, and Grillmarkadurinn is undoubtedly a paradise for food enthusiasts. It provides a superb selection of grilled meats, fish, and vegetables in downtown Reykjavik, as well as some tantalizing cocktails that are perfect for enhancing your mood before experiencing the city’s nightlife.
Operating Hours:
Rating on TripAdvisor: 4.5/5Location: Laekjargata 2a, 101 Reykjavík, IcelandOfficial Website | Reviews
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10. Icelandic Music At Harpa
If you have a passion for good music, then Harpa – the dazzling concert hall in Iceland is the ideal destination. With renowned artists and bands performing classical music, this venue enhances your winter vacation even further.
Location: Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
11. Whale Spotting
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Winter in Iceland may not be the optimal time to observe wildlife, but it is certainly an excellent opportunity to witness the 23 different species of whales, such as mink and humpback. You have the option to participate in any regular Iceland winter tours that depart from Reykjavik around 1 PM and have the chance to see marine creatures that you have never seen before.
Price: $55 during the winter season
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12. Dog Sledding
As rare as it may sound, dog sledding offers a truly unique experience in Iceland. Through this distinctive mode of transportation, you will not only develop a fondness for the dogs but also appreciate the snow-covered scenery.
Price: $34 to $422Duration: 1 hour to 9 hours, depending on the specific tour you choose
13. Reykjavik For New Year’s Celebrations
The New Year celebrations in Iceland are a remarkable spectacle. With extravagant dinners, parties, and a fireworks display, the entire city is beautifully illuminated and unquestionably an ideal destination to begin your new journey.
Top Party Venues In Iceland: Austur Nightclub, Slippbarinn, and more.
14. Shopping
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Reykjavik, a fusion of rural and urban culture, is undeniably the ultimate shopping hub in Iceland. From boutique stores on Laugavegur to Thorvaldsens Bazar, the oldest handicraft shop, there are numerous options for shopaholics to indulge themselves.
Best Shopping Destinations In Iceland: Handknitting Association of Iceland, Nordic Store, and more.
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15. Equine Riding
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Equine riding in Iceland is not a typical experience. It is unquestionably the finest way to connect with nature. With a selection of tours accessible, you can effortlessly get on an Icelandic horse and embark on a tour of the renowned tourist destinations in Iceland.
Expense: $76 to $284 depending on the tour you reserveDuration: 1 hour to 9 hours
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Evidently, Iceland in December has a plethora of surprises for its travelers. From savoring the awe-inspiring natural marvels to experimenting with daring activities, this country brings joy to all kinds of travelers and keeps them enthralled throughout their journey. And while you’re contemplating on planning your excursion to Europe already, here is everything else you need to apprehend.
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Commonly Asked Questions About Iceland In December
How frigid is Iceland in December?
With the temperature ranging between -1°C to 4°C, Iceland is agreeably cold in December, but tolerable. The snow enhances the charm of the country, creating a winter wonderland, making it a flawless holiday destination.
What type of clothing is advised to wear in Iceland in December?
What are a few recommendations for visiting Iceland during winters that one needs to remember?
Some of the recommendations to bear in mind when planning a trip to Iceland in December are to plan your vacation and make the reservations in advance, pack an ample number of layers, construct a list of activities to engage in there, carry your medications, and more.
What are the finest outdoor activities to engage in Iceland in winter?
Racing on a skiddo, dog sledding, touring the blue ice caves, immersing in the hot springs or pools, and more are some of the finest activities to engage in Iceland in winter.
Can you observe the Northern Lights in Iceland in December?
The peak viewing season for Northern Lights is from September to March. During the winter season, the evenings are prolonged in Iceland. Also, make sure not to schedule a Northern Lights hunt during a Full Moon.
Is Iceland dim in December?
The temperature of Iceland in December ranges from -1°C to 4°C. It is agreeably cold and bearable and being the darkest month, the days during this time are the shortest and nights extremely stunning.
How protracted does winter persist in Iceland?
Winter commences at the conclusion of October and persists until April in Iceland. Iceland has two primary seasons – summer and winter.
Which is the finest honeymoon destination in Iceland in December?
Blue Lagoon is a flawless honeymoon destination in Iceland in December. It is one of the most picturesque locations in the entire country. The heated seawater in the lagoon makes it a perfect place to bathe with your beloved. Hallgrimskirkja Church, Thingvellir National Park are some of the other popular honeymoon destinations.
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