From enchanting natural spectacles to awe-inspiring landscapes and magical experiences, your stay in Reykjavik in winter promises to be unforgettable! In our opinion, Iceland’s capital is an ideal starting point for discovering the island’s wonders. Exploring the famous Golden Circle, waterfalls, geysers, the Northern Lights at night – you’ll be in for a real treat. Discover the treasures of the Snaefellsnes peninsula or go whale watching at sea. The region abounds in unique sites such as natural caves, hot springs and lava tunnels and formations. A variety of activities are available, including snowmobiling and glacier hiking. Are you ready for a moment of fascination?
Use our practical tips and photos to plan your ideal getaway. See our selection of the 11 best excursions from Reykjavik to make your choice!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Content
Our 3 favorite excursions from Reykjavik
Before discovering our detailed opinions on each of the selected excursions, here are our 3 favorites:
- Excursion to the Golden Circle and Kerid Crater – See prices, photos and availability
- Diving and snorkeling in the Silfra Fault at Thingvellir – See prices, photos and availability
- Discover the South Coast and its waterfalls – See prices, photos and availability
1. Le Cercle d’Or: our favorite
Why do we recommend this tour?
If you’re planning a trip to Iceland in winter, we think a trip to the Golden Circle circuit is a must! From Reykjavik, you can easily visit this region in 1 day. Stop off at Thingvellir National Park, famous for its geology and historical symbolism. Did you know that Iceland’s parliament, the oldest in the world, was founded here in the 10th century? Parliamentarians met here right up to the end of the 18th century – fascinating, isn’t it? The tour route is signposted with numerous explanatory panels.
It’s also a geographical zone where faults between tectonic plates are most visible, such as the Silfra fissure, one of the best known. Like us, you’ll be captivated by the magic of the contrast between the rocks and the whiteness of the snow!
What you will see
Located in the south-west of Iceland and to the east of Reykjavik, the Golden Circle has a lot to offer:
- Thingvellir National Park with its giant fissures in the earth’s crust
- The Haukadalur geothermal zone, with the Strokkur geyser erupting every 3 to 8 minutes
- The gigantic and powerful Gullfoss waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in winter
- Breathtaking snow-covered volcanic landscapes as far as the eye can see
How much time should I allow?
Allow 1 full day to appreciate the natural beauty of the area and discover all the wonders of the Golden Circle in winter! Half-day excursions are also available, see our selection below.
- 1 full day: Golden Circle and Kerid Crater – see program
- In 1 half-day: Gullfoss waterfall, Thingvellir Park and Strokkur geyser – see program
- Excursion to the Golden Circle and glacier by snowmobile – see program and book
2. Diving and snorkeling in the Silfra fault at Thingvellir
Why do we recommend this tour?
Would you like to discover the depths of a fissure between 2 tectonic plates? The Silfra Fault in the heart of Thingvellir National Park offers an incredible spectacle all year round. On the program: diving and snorkeling between the Eurasian and American tectonic plates in one of the world’s most famous cold-water diving spots. You’ll also visit the wonders sheltered by the Golden Circle, such as the Geysir geothermal hot springs zone and the Gullfoss waterfall. An unforgettable experience, even in winter! In the midst of these enchanting landscapes, you may catch a glimpse of the small 19th-century church of Thingvallakirkja. It’s closed in winter, but adds a poetic dimension to the panorama!
What you will see
There are several reasons why we feel this excursion is a must:
- diving and snorkeling in the Silfra fault, between 2 tectonic plates
- the sublime landscapes of Thingvellir National Park, cradle of the Icelandic nation
- hot springs in the Geysir geothermal zone
- the impressive Gullfoss waterfall
- the power and beauty of nature, especially Thingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest natural lake
- the Almannagja Canyon fissure and its imposing snow-covered rocks
How much time should I allow?
The tour we’ve selected requires a full day on site, including pick-up and departure from Reykjavik.
Book your day trip to the Golden Circle with diving and snorkeling in the Silfra fault in the heart of Thingvellir Park!
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On Route 1, no 4WD required, off Route 1, it depends on your plans.
3. Discover the South Coast and its waterfalls
Why do we recommend this tour?
Another favorite easily accessible from Reykjavik in winter is Iceland’s South Coast. Waterfalls 60m high, black sand beaches, icebergs sparkling like diamonds and imposing glaciers, the South Coast offered us a beautiful variety of landscapes, all within easy reach of main road 1. The Seljalandsfoss waterfall is undoubtedly the most beautiful to our eyes, but the path behind it is closed in winter. Another powerful waterfall, one of our winter favorites, is Skogafoss, which doesn’t freeze at this time of year thanks to the strength of the waterfall. We love the different perspectives you can get here, and also the contrasts between the black rock and the white snow. A little further east on the south coast, we were also seduced by the glacial lagoon of Jokulsarlon, a must-see in winter.
What you will see
This region is one of Iceland’s most beautiful in winter, with many points of interest very close to the road, making it easy to “hop around” and see as much as possible. You’ll also see..:
- several beautiful waterfalls to see in winter
- charming towns such as Vik or Höfn a little further along the coastal road
- black sand beaches such as the famous Reynisfjara
- Jokulsarlon ice lagoon
How much time should I allow?
The South Coast has a lot to offer, and there are many options for excursions in the region. We recommend that you opt for a day trip, whether you go on your own or on an organized tour, as there are so many beautiful things to see!
- The South Coast of Iceland in 1 day – See prices, photos and availability
- Glaciers, waterfalls, black-sand beaches and the village of Vik in 1 day – see details and book
- A full day on the South Coast by snowmobile! see program
- The South Coast must-sees in 1 day – from the West Waterfalls to Jokulsarlon to find out more
4. Northern lights hunt
Why do we recommend this tour?
Do you know about the northern lights? These magnificent light phenomena occur near the North Pole between September and April. You’ll have an even better chance of seeing them in winter, from November to January. The Sun’s activity triggers a solar (or geomagnetic) storm, releasing particles into space towards the Earth. This natural mechanism is the source of these skies colored by sublime streaks of light. Weather forecasts from the Icelandic Meteorological Office can also help you plan ahead. If you’re in Reykjavik, it can be a little harder to see them at night from the city due to the urban lighting. But opt for a guided excursion to see the northern lights outside. We’ll never forget these beautiful images! Choosing a night tour remains the easiest option to ensure you see the Northern Lights in a safe and organized setting.
What you will see
We strongly advise you to choose a professionally guided tour, so you can relax on the way and enjoy the scenery. This is the tour we’ve selected for you:
- a luminous and unforgettable Northern Lights night show
- wild night landscapes outside the city
- stops to photograph this unique natural scene
- a professional English-speaking guide
- admission to the Aurora Museum
How much time should I allow?
The excursion is necessarily nocturnal, as the Northern Lights can only be observed in the darkness of night. Allow around 4 hours for this guided tour.
Book your magical getaway from Reykjavik to see the Northern Lights!
5. Wonder at whales and orcas
Why do we recommend this tour?
Whales and orcas can be seen from several locations in Iceland. The north of the island state is a great place for whale-watching, as in Husavik for example. However, you can also embark on a sea excursion from Reykjavik and admire these wonders. These protected species offer a richly emotional experience, as you admire a ballet of sea giants such as humpback whales, rorquals, dolphins and even sperm whales.
What you will see
Whale and orca watching necessarily involves a guided boat trip. On this cruise, you’ll enjoy..:
- a large boat oryacht
- wetsuits supplied by the crew to keep you warm on board
- beautiful images of whales at sea
- if you’re lucky, local wildlife such as porpoises and dolphins
- a free ticket for another cruise if you don’t see any whales on this tour
How much time should I allow?
Whale-watching cruises last an average of 3 to 4 hours, depending on the tour.
Book your whale-watching boat tour now and experience a unique moment!
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On Route 1, no 4WD required, off Route 1, it depends on your plans.
6. Ice cave immersion
Why do we recommend this tour?
Surprising light effects, crystal-clear ice, bluish or even black landscapes… Immersing ourselves in an ice cave was a magical experience during our stay in Iceland during a period of extreme cold. As ice caves are living creatures, these geological wonders change every winter. This is the season when you’ll have the most options for discovering them in complete safety under the supervision of on-site professionals. If you’re on a winter road trip, we recommend Jokulsarlon. It may not be the most impressive of the blue caves, but conditions permitting, you can see both a blue and a black cave! However, it can be a long way from Reykjavik to reach the ice caves. We suggest different options below if you really want to get there.
What you will see
We were very lucky during our trip and observed:
- a natural grotto with a bluish bottom due to ice compression
- a natural black cave, coloured by a mixture of volcanic ash and ice
- interior ceilings of varying heights, depending on the cave
- irregular and sometimes surprising natural formations
- hikes through snow-covered landscapes to reach certain ice caves
- ice tunnels to match the caves
How much time should I allow?
From Reykjavik, allow 1 full day. The nearest ice cave to Reykjavik is Langjökull, a 2-hour drive away on gravel and unpaved mountain tracks (F-roads). It’s best to opt directly for an organized tour, as access to the ice caves is not possible without a guide for safety reasons.
If you’ve rented a car, allow around 5 hours’ drive to the caves in the Jokulsarlon area and book your entrance. This can be long and tiring, especially if you’re not used to driving in extreme cold conditions. We strongly recommend that you opt for guided excursions with transport, so that you can relax on the way and enjoy the scenery. The drivers are local professionals familiar with Iceland’s roads. If you’re able to spend more than 1 day here, it’s the perfect way to get the most out of your visit.
- From Reykjavik: Golden Circle, Thingvellir National Park and Langjökull ice cave – book now
- Visit an ice cave from the Jokulsarlon lagoon – see program and book
- Guided tour of the blue cave of the Vatnajökull glacier – See prices, photos and availability
- From Reykjavik: multi-day 4WD tours along the South Coast with ice caves. more info
7. Swimming in the Blue Lagoon
Why do we recommend this tour?
Iceland’s Blue Lagoon is one of the island’s most famous attractions: a giant open-air spa. But is it worth visiting in winter? Our answer is yes! This blue lagoon was created by man, filled with water from the nearby geothermal plant. This water is known for its healing effects, with active ingredients such as minerals, algae and silica. It is used to turn turbines that generate electricity. The hot water and steam then pass through a heat exchanger. Dumped into the lagoon, it can be used for medicinal and recreational purposes via a bath. If you like spas, Jacuzzis and the like, then yes, it’s worth it. What’s more, forgetting the cold and wind of Iceland in winter when you’re basking in 40°C waters is a very pleasant experience! It was a unique sensation. It was great to relax all our muscles after a long day’s walking.
Be aware that your skin may feel oily in the water. Finally, this place isn’t for swimming or having fun in the water… It’s very popular, so there are bound to be other people in it. It really depends on what you’re looking for.
What you will see
We have fond memories of this excursion:
- the beautiful blue lagoon and the steam it gives off
- the milky water on the left before entering the building
- a stroll around the outdoor pools
- the striking contrast between blue water and black rock
- beautiful surrounding landscapes
How much time should I allow?
You can expect to spend a day or half-day there if you go by your own means. The Blue Lagoon is a 40-minute drive from Reykjavik and 20 minutes from Keflavík International Airport. To make your life easier, from our selection below you can choose the Blue Lagoon entry option with transfers or with a drink and facial to make the most of it!
- Half-day at the Blue Lagoon with transfers from Reykjavik – see program and book
- Entry to the Blue Lagoon with drink and mud mask – see details and book
- 1 day at the Golden Circle, Kerid Crater and Blue Lagoon – See prices, photos and availability
8. Original winter activities
Why do we recommend this tour?
If you choose to discover Iceland in winter, you’ll have a range of exciting activities to try out on site. Among the most original, we explored natural ice caves, a breathtaking moment of blue or black magic! If you’re a thrill-seeker, try your hand at snowmobiling or a helicopter ride through extraordinary snowy scenery. For total immersion in Icelandic culture and traditions, there’s nothing like a hot spring bath in the middle of the mountains! We also met the charming Icelandic horses, direct descendants of the mounts used by the Vikings when they settled on the island, for a ride on the lava fields. Finally, if you have more time, we recommend a trip to Jokusarlon, where the setting is simply exceptional, with its lagoons and black sand beaches covered with sparkling icebergs. It’s a great program, but what are you going to choose?
What you will see
It depends on how much time you have and what you’re looking for, but you’ll be as surprised as we are:
- lava fields as far as the eye can see
- Icelandic horses strolling through the snow-covered landscape
- black or blue ice caves, depending on location
- discover the landscapes of the South Coast on snowmobile
- Iceland’s high plateaus seen from the air by helicopter
- glaciers to hike on
A few hours from Reykjavik, if you continue eastwards along the South Coast, let yourself be carried away by the magic of lagoons like Jokulsarlon, with its ice caves and “diamond” beach, a beautiful stretch of black sand with beached icebergs.
How much time should I allow?
- Horseback riding in the lava fields – See prices, photos and availability
- Horseback riding in the Raudholar volcano range – See prices, photos and availability
- Snowmobile day on the South Coast – France See prices, photos and availability
- Discover the Golden Circle and glaciers by snowmobile – See prices, photos and availability
- Snowmobile trip on the Langjökull glacier and hot springs see details
- Helicopter tour over the high plateaus, icebergs and lagoons – see details
9. Exploring a lava cave
Why do we recommend this tour?
Iceland is the land of fire and ice! And what better way to appreciate fire than to enter a lava tunnel… Inside, we saw layers of lava, colorful minerals and the power of nature. Have you ever wondered what lies beneath the astonishing lava fields and lava formations all around the country?
In some areas, nature has sculpted amazing creations: lava caves, also known as lava tunnels. Visiting one of them is a real experience, and one we’ve loved trying out! Our favorite lava caves are Vidgelmir and Vatnshellir, but there are plenty of others in Iceland accessible from Reykjavik in winter!
What you will see
Exploring Iceland’s lava caves in the middle of winter gave us the opportunity to see:
- impressive lava tunnels
- fascinating shapes sculpted by lava inside caves
- ice formations that contrast with the darker color of the dried lava
- caves dating back thousands of years, such as the 8,000-year-old Vatnshellir cave
How much time should I allow?
Visits to the lava caves last between 1 and 3 hours, depending on the tour organized, or you can opt for a full-day excursion.
- Visit the Vatnshellir Cave on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula – see details and book
- Raufarhólshellir caving tour – See prices, photos and availability
- Lava caves, thermal baths and waterfalls – book ahead to be sure of a place
10. Detour to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Why do we recommend this tour?
In winter, we were won over by the magnificent Snaefellsnes Peninsula, which is covered in a heavy blanket of white, highlighting its volcanic formations and natural treasures. Between waterfalls, mountains, lava fields and caves, the Sanefellsnes Peninsula is one of our favorite regions in Iceland, even in winter.
The scenery is less impressive than on the South Coast or in the Golden Circle, but the atmosphere is, in our opinion, more magical, with beaches, fjords, volcanoes and lava fields.
What you will see
Often referred to as miniature Iceland, you’ll find a wide variety of landscapes to observe in this region:
- the Snæfellsjökul glacier
- Kirkjufell mountain
- Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall
- Saxhóll crater
- Vatnshellir cave, born of a lava flow
- Malariff lighthouse and museum
- Londrangar‘s lava cliffs
- the emblematic basalt cliffs and rock formations ofArnarstapi
- Budakirkja Black Church
And our list of beautiful places to see in Snaefellsnes goes on and on…
How much time should I allow?
From Reykjavik, you can visit several points of interest on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula in 1 day. You can also plan to spend several days on site, with more time to spare. If you don’t want to drive from Reykjavik in winter, opt for one of the excursions in our selection!
- The Snaefellsnes Peninsula must-sees in 1 day! see program
- Snaefellsnes tours in 2, 3, 4 days or 1 week – more information
11. Volcano tour
Why do we recommend this tour?
Iceland is truly one of the countries where we felt the strength and grandeur of the elements the most, especially in winter. With its post-apocalyptic landscapes, gigantic cliffs and powerful waterfalls, the country offered us a powerful moment of communion with nature during this stay. Iceland is also known for its many volcanoes, several of which are still active. How about a helicopter flight over the volcanic eruption sites closest to Reykjavik in uninhabited areas? Or hike the Fagradalsfjall volcano with a geologist? These unusual excursions will leave you speechless.
What you will see
These excursions promise unforgettable images such as (depending on the tour chosen)
- sublime panoramas with majestic nature as far as the eye can see around the capital
- live volcanic eruptions with steaming lava flows
- Lake Kleifarvatn
- the beauty of the Reykjanes Peninsula
- the unique volcanic landscapes of Fagradalfjall and Sundhnukagigar
- a geologist explains the wonders of the region and the formation of lava
How much time should I allow?
For the helicopter tour, allow around 1 hour. Alternatively, you can allow 1 day for the other options of hiking with a geologist or visiting the Snaefellsnes volcanic region.
- Helicopter tour of the volcanic region near Reykjavik – see details and book
- 1-day tour of volcanic eruption sites – See prices, photos and availability
- 4 to 6-hour hike to the Fagradalsfjall volcano with a geologist. see program and book
- 1-day guided tour to Thrihnukagigur volcano – reserve your place now
Frequently asked questions
What nature activities are available on winter excursions?
The major advantage of a stay in Iceland, whatever the season, is that you’ll be in full contact with nature! Here’s a selection of activities:
- see the northern lights
- take a tour of the Golden Circle
- visit ice caves and glaciers
- whale watching
- bathing in hot springs
- hiking, snowmobiling or jeep excursions
- try diving and snorkeling in winter
- stroll along the capital’s waterfront
- fill your lungs with fresh air on Mount Esja
See all our ideas for things to do in Reykjavik.
When is the best time to see the Northern Lights?
If you want to observe these extraordinary natural light phenomena, plan a trip to Iceland between September and April, as you’ll be closer to the North Pole (aurora australis near the South Pole with reversed seasons). The light is less intense and the nights darker at this time of year. To maximize your chances of spotting them, plan your trip between November and January, as the nights are longer. Avoid the period from May to August, as the hours of sunshine are longer and the days get much longer as you approach the Arctic Circle. Want to see these natural wonders for real? Book your getaway from Reykjavik!
How to dress for winter excursions?
If you’re traveling to Reykjavik in winter, remember to pack waterproof clothing that will keep you warm, such as boots, a warm jacket, several layers of clothing, gloves, a hat… Be aware that the weather can change rapidly in Iceland, so plan to be able to add or remove layers of clothing easily. On organized tours, equipment such as snow crampons or complementary windproof or waterproof suits can be provided. Please check with the tour operators when booking your trip.
Be careful, with snow and ice on the ground, it can be slippery. We recommend you always carry cleats with you to add to your shoes. See our article on winter packing (coming soon)
What are the best options for exploring Iceland in winter: car rental or guided tours?
In our opinion, the 2 best options for exploring Iceland in winter are a road-trip with a rental car or a guided tour. There are advantages and disadvantages to these alternatives, so here’s our advice in a nutshell:
- Car rental: we love road trips, as they’re the best way to discover the country and choose your own itinerary. If you’ve already driven on snow or ice, renting a car with 2-wheel drive is sufficient. Just make sure your winter tires are in good condition when you get in the car. Read all our car rental tips here. If you don’t want to spend time planning your own itinerary, you can choose from GuidetoIceland’s Iceland winter self-drive packages. Bear in mind that conditions can be extreme, so you need to be fit and alert, but also ride gently.
- Guided excursions: this is a good option if you don’t want to drive and enjoy the beautiful scenery at the same time. By the way, if your stay in Iceland is short, there’s no need to rent a car. Instead, opt for day trips from Reykjavik. Or for a guided group tour of Iceland, which can cover several of the island’s must-see places, with explanations from the guide. However, you’ll be less free to move around, change your route and make stops whenever you like.
Are the roads passable in winter?
A road trip to Iceland is an unforgettable experience, and in our opinion, the best way to discover this country. However, you need to be well prepared, especially if you’ve never driven on snow or ice before. Iceland’s roads are well maintained, but conditions can change rapidly with snow, ice and wind. Main road 1 is paved and runs all the way around the island. The inland trails are gravel and mountain roads. Be aware that driving in Iceland in winter requires experience, time, fitness and alertness.
Normally, the roads are cleared quickly enough for access. But during snowstorms, roads may be closed at the last minute – always check the status of roads on Umferdin.
If you only feel comfortable, we recommend you rent a car from a reliable agency, and remember to check the condition of the tires before you start your journey. Find out all our tips for renting a car in Iceland. If you’ve never driven on snow before, we recommend you take a course or book a small-group tour (so you can relax and enjoy the scenery). The drivers are locals with experience of the roads and storms.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO iceland IN WINTER
- Best of
Iceland’s winter landscapes
Best things to do in Iceland in winter
The most beautiful waterfalls
Ice caves
Best excursions from Reykjavik
- Practical advice
Getting around (coming soon)
How to rent a car in Iceland
Winter driving tips
Where to stay in Iceland in winter
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 1 week – 10 days (to come)
- The must-dos
Reykjavik in winter
Golden Circle in winter
South coast in winter
Snaefellsnes in winter
Silver Circle in winter (coming soon)
Lake Myvatn in winter
Eastern Fjords in winter
Seljalandsfoss in winter
Jokulsarlon in winter
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
