{"id":6268,"date":"2026-09-09T15:14:09","date_gmt":"2026-09-09T13:14:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/iceland-in-winter-with-or-without-a-car\/"},"modified":"2026-09-09T16:03:56","modified_gmt":"2026-09-09T14:03:56","slug":"iceland-winter-with-or-without-car","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\/","title":{"rendered":"Iceland in Winter: with or without a car?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Should you rent a car to explore Iceland in the winter, or is it better to stick with organized tours? This is one of the questions we get asked most often before a winter trip. The answer depends on your experience driving in the snow, your budget, and how much time you have.<br\/>Here is <strong>our full review<\/strong>: pros, cons, difficulty level while driving, destinations you can choose from, and how to handle inclement weather.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car.jpg\" alt=\"Iceland in Winter: With or Without a Car\" class=\"wp-image-6245\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This opinion is completely <strong>independent<\/strong>, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Should_You_Rent_a_Car_in_Iceland_in_the_Winter_Heres_Our_Quick_Answer\"><\/span>Should You Rent a Car in Iceland in the Winter? Here&#8217;s Our Quick Answer<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Drivers who feel comfortable on snowy roads:  <br\/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.discovercars.com\/iceland?a_aid=zigzag&amp;chan=iceland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">A rental car<\/a>\u2014it offers total flexibility!<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>First winter trip or lack of confidence behind the wheel:  <br\/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/s?q=Islande+hiver&amp;searchSource=3&amp;src=search_bar&amp;durationRanges=2,3?partner_id=R3GYW4V&amp;cmp=iceland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Day Trips from Reykjavik<\/a>  <br\/>or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/s?q=Islande+hiver&amp;searchSource=3&amp;src=search_bar&amp;durationRanges=5,6,7&amp;partner_id=R3GYW4V&amp;cmp=iceland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">a guided tour lasting several days around Iceland <\/a> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A 4- to 5-day trip around Reykjavik: both options work equally well<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Anxiety caused by a change in schedule:<br\/>Organized excursions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Iceland\/Winter\/Snaefellsnes\/Saxholl\/i-9Hj6GMp\/1\/FK4nXrP92KQHtWXjQZCD9ZxGVsqS6dhLRh8btHWN7\/L\/crater_Saxholl_Iceland-4941-L.jpg\" alt=\"Tour Minibus in Saxholl\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Driving_in_Iceland_in_the_winter_How_difficult_is_it\"><\/span>Driving in Iceland in the winter: How difficult is it?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Main Challenges of Driving<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Winter driving in Iceland isn&#8217;t impossible, but it does require some preparation. The main roads are paved and regularly plowed, but conditions can change quickly: a clear road can become covered with snow or black ice in just a few kilometers.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Wind remains the most underestimated danger: sudden gusts can cause a vehicle to veer off course, especially after a turn or a mountain pass. We also came across areas where snow had drifted across the road, pushed by the wind, forcing us to slow down so we could react in time.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Iceland\/Winter\/Driving\/i-34M2WPv\/1\/LsQjJ4Vt55knX5fdkZzPpFTkBCDs8BkSJSwZZq4Wf\/L\/winter_drive_Snaefellsnes_Iceland-4691-L.jpg\" alt=\"Snowdrift on the road in Iceland\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Darkness and Other Traps<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The days get significantly shorter between December and January, with only 4\u00bd to 5 hours of daylight. Part of the route is therefore driven in the dark, which reduces visibility and makes it difficult to estimate distances. Another unique feature: some bridges on Route 1 narrow to a single lane\u2014as indicated by signs\u2014and in the eastern fjords, you may encounter reindeer crossing the road. In any case, slowing down is always the best thing to do.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Iceland\/Winter\/Driving\/i-dZKbdD8\/1\/M7vVpwXMvKxTwjqFjxt5D4rgwPgJgNjkv3pw3F2vg\/L\/drive_South_coast_Iceland-2336-L.jpg\" alt=\"Clear roads in winter\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is it suitable for inexperienced drivers?<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our stance on this is clear: if you&#8217;ve never driven in snow or on ice, Iceland in the winter isn&#8217;t the best place to learn. The distances between gas stations and homes can sometimes be long, and a single incident can quickly turn into a prolonged wait on the side of the road.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In that case, it&#8217;s better to choose organized excursions or book a guided tour lasting several days rather than rent a car.  <br\/>See our full article on <a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/driving-iceland-winter-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">driving in Iceland in the winter<\/a> for all the details and safety tips, as well as information on <a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/iceland-winter-safe-dangers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">the main hazards of the Icelandic winter<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n<div style=\"background-color:#e4f3f6;margin-top:8%;margin-bottom:8%\" class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns inverse box_planif is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column texte_planif is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:60%\">\n<h5 class=\"titre_box\" style=\"padding-top:10px;\">RENTING A CAR IN <span class=\"titre_box_manuscrit\">Iceland<\/span><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:16px\">Discover the best offers on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.discovercars.com\/iceland?a_aid=zigzag&amp;chan=iceland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Discovercars<\/a>, our preferred platform!<br\/>On Route 1, no 4WD required, off Route 1, it depends on your plans.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column planif-radius-2 is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large voiture_image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Iceland\/Winter\/Driving\/i-q2wFFnJ\/1\/Dn4qbSGkrKhZgHBNz2hWXrPc3VdddRQZ7cdj3FpVX\/S\/drive_South_coast_Iceland-2-21-S.jpg\" alt=\"driving in Iceland\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns planif_bouton is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-fe48e5de wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-text-color wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.discovercars.com\/fr\/iceland?a_aid=zigzag&amp;chan=iceland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">See available cars &gt;&gt;<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:16px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/renting-car-iceland-tips-experiences\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Read all our tips<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Iceland_in_Winter_by_Car_Freedom_Above_All_Else\"><\/span>Iceland in Winter by Car: Freedom Above All Else<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The main argument in favor of renting a car is still the freedom to choose your own itinerary. You choose where to stop, spend more time where the scenery appeals to you, and avoid the fixed schedules of group tours. In winter, traffic is light outside Reykjavik, which makes driving more comfortable than in summer, despite the weather conditions. Most major roads remain open throughout the season; they are paved and cleared of snow on a regular basis.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Iceland\/Winter\/North-Iceland\/Myvatn\/Skutustadagigar\/i-wjtBxKb\/1\/MWW7P8GLVLX8LqqFCMLbqvgMp4k6fkgDpHXdQtBLr\/L\/pseudocraters_Skutustadagigar_Iceland-4168-L.jpg\" alt=\"Alone at the pseudocraters of Myvatn\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Benefits<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Complete freedom to choose your itinerary and schedule<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>There is little traffic outside the capital<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your budget may be lower if you&#8217;re traveling with others<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Disadvantages<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Additional stress caused by road conditions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Requires genuine winter driving experience<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It&#8217;s impossible to know the exact road conditions in advance; only official closures are announced<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Taking Matters into Your Own Hands in the Event of Storm-Related Road Closures<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Iceland\/Winter\/Driving\/i-q2wFFnJ\/1\/MpNL5hC5fwm8dPK4LSjbzrvHfH5mztQnvPnNF2zbV\/L\/drive_South_coast_Iceland-2-21-L.jpg\" alt=\"Open road in Iceland in winter\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As for the car itself, avoid small models that don&#8217;t handle as well. A 4WD offers real comfort and added safety, though it is not required on Route 1. Also check the snow tires before you leave: they&#8217;re supposed to be included as standard, but a quick check never hurts. Our favorite platform for comparing car rental companies is still <a href=\"https:\/\/www.discovercars.com\/iceland?a_aid=zigzag&amp;chan=iceland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">DiscoverCars<\/a>, where we consistently find great deals with insurance at a good price.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you want to enjoy the freedom of traveling by car without spending hours planning everything, self-drive packages combine car rental, hotels, and a ready-made itinerary. See all our tips for <a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/renting-car-iceland-tips-experiences\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">renting a car in Iceland<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box gb-block-container\" style=\"background-color:#e4f3f6\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/ebook-guide-road-trip-iceland-winter\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\" noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/inpost-Iceland-winter-Lovers-EN.jpg\" alt=\"inpost Iceland Winter Lovers FR\" class=\"wp-image-6053\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Iceland_in_Winter_Without_a_Car_Organized_Tours\"><\/span>Iceland in Winter Without a Car: Organized Tours  <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tours organized from Reykjavik<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In our opinion, organized tours are still the best alternative to driving. A professional driver knows the roads, adjusts the route based on the day&#8217;s conditions, and handles all the logistics. What we appreciate most is being able to enjoy the scenery without having to keep an eye on the road\u2014it really makes a difference on a long day of driving.  <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Iceland\/Winter\/Golden-Circle\/Haukadalur\/i-kZMrQjX\/1\/NWMCH74fbfRRZRtfZnskZt5KrcTpt8HddgGDXmHCS\/L\/Strokkur_Geyser_Haukadalur_Iceland-1634-L.jpg\" alt=\"Strokkur geyser\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Strokkur Geyser on the Golden Circle<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Plus, you&#8217;ll have a guide who can answer all your questions about the scenery, culture, and the country, which is really great.<br\/>Here are some of our favorite excursions:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Golden Circle and Kerid Crater \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/reykjavik-l30\/journee-decouverte-du-cercle-d-or-depuis-reykjavik-t67012\/?partner_id=R3GYW4V&amp;cmp=iceland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">see the itinerary<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Diving and snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.viator.com\/tours\/Reykjavik\/Golden-Circle-with-Snorkel-in-Silfra-From-Reykjavik\/d905-50287P21?pid=P00074304&amp;mcid=42383&amp;medium=link&amp;medium_version=selector&amp;campaign=iceland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">see the itinerary<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The South Coast and Its Waterfalls \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/reykjavik-l30\/depuis-reykjavik-une-journee-dans-le-sud-de-l-islande-t67018\/?partner_id=R3GYW4V&amp;cmp=iceland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">see the itinerary<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Langj\u00f6kull Ice Cave Tour from Reykjavik \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/reykjavik-l30\/au-depart-de-reykjavik-visite-du-cercle-d-or-et-de-la-grotte-de-glace-du-glacier-t326020\/?partner_id=R3GYW4V&amp;cmp=iceland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">see the itinerary<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hunting for the Northern Lights \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/reykjavik-l30\/islande-decouverte-en-bus-des-aurores-boreales-t67019\/?partner_id=R3GYW4V&amp;cmp=iceland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">see the schedule<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/best-excursions-from-reykjavik-winter-day-trips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">See all of our favorite excursions.<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Iceland\/Winter\/South-Coast-in-Winter\/Seljalandsfoss\/i-xTR23MB\/1\/CwNXrJx9pwWvHm4rPZ5F2cXQpW4LC2LkKf7MpTQx5\/L\/waterfall_Seljalandsfoss_Iceland-3597-L.jpg\" alt=\"Seljalandsfoss in winter\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Seljalandsfoss in winter<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Multi-day tours<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To explore Iceland further, multi-day guided tours cover a significant portion of Route 1, with accommodations and meals included depending on the package. It&#8217;s a great way to explore further along the south coast, the north, or the eastern fjords without having to drive. See, for example:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>This 3-day tour along the south coast featuring ice caves\u2014 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/reykjavik-l30\/de-reykjavik-excursion-hivernale-de-3-jours-sur-la-cote-sud-avec-glacier-t427394\/?partner_id=R3GYW4V&amp;cmp=iceland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">check availability <\/a> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This 7-day tour along Route 1\u2014 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/reykjavik-l30\/depuis-reykjavik-7-jours-autour-de-la-route-circulaire-d-islande-et-de-snaefellsnes-t819280\/?partner_id=R3GYW4V&amp;cmp=iceland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">check availability <\/a> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This <a href=\"https:\/\/guidetoiceland.is\/fr\/reserver-islande-voyage\/voyage-organise-hiver-8-jours-tour-islande?a=101796\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">8-day small-group tour<\/a> is designed for you to relax while taking in the scenery.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Iceland\/Winter\/Snaefellsnes\/Saxholl\/i-9Hj6GMp\/1\/KVLxQGRWgfJ7vBgQVqbc3WnxGGvVK9Sr7GFxp3bQm\/L\/crater_Saxholl_Iceland-4941-L.jpg\" alt=\"Minibus for a guided tour in Iceland in winter\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Minibus tour in a small group<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Traveling_Without_a_Car_Public_Transportation\"><\/span>Traveling Without a Car: Public Transportation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Public transportation is limited to cities, and service remains infrequent in the winter. However, almost all of the attractions are located outside urban areas, which makes this option impractical for exploring the country. We do not recommend it as your primary mode of transportation, except for getting around within Reykjavik itself.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box gb-block-container\" style=\"background-color:#e4f8fb;margin-top:8%;margin-bottom:8%\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\" style=\"max-width:700px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box_titre gb-block-container\" style=\"background-color:#e4f8fb\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\">\n<h5 class=\"titre_box\" style=\"padding-top:10px;\">WHERE TO STAY IN <span class=\"titre_box_manuscrit\">Iceland<\/span><\/h5>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns box_sans_border has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#e4f8fb\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column texte_planif is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"font-size:14px;flex-basis:60%\">\n<p class=\"option_titre2 wp-block-paragraph\">Our independent picks for <strong>the accommodation of your dreams<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/where-stay-iceland-best-hotels-areas\/\" type=\"post\" id=\"3911\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Where to sleep in Iceland<\/a> on a road trip<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/where-stay-reykjavik-best-hotels-neighborhoods\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"5686\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Where to sleep in Reykjavik<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/south-coast-iceland-where-to-stay-best-hotels\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"2273\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Where to Stay on the South Coast<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/golden-circle-where-stay-best-hotels\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"5884\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Where to sleep on the Golden Circle<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/where-to-stay-snaefellsnes-peninsula-best-hotels\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Where to sleep on the Snaefellsnes peninsula<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/where-stay-myvatn-best-hotels-areas\/\" type=\"post\" id=\"4565\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Where to sleep on Lake Myvatn<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"736\" href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/where-to-stay-iceland-winter-best-places-hotels\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Where to stay on the Island in winter<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top planif-radius is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:40%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large img-portrait\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Iceland\/South-Coast\/Hotel-Katla\/i-pJBMTRw\/0\/ZQQMRNz8xHstZq28JL5M6NFJtTCctQHbgMHVzVLz\/S\/Vik_Accommodation_Iceland-3648-S.jpg\" alt=\"Hotel Katla near Vik\" title=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_can_you_see_with_or_without_a_car\"><\/span>What can you see with or without a car?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">By car: a country with almost no limits<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With a rental car, you can explore Route 1 at your own pace, stop in Vik, H\u00f6fn, or the East Fjords, and take an impromptu detour down little-known side roads.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Iceland\/Winter\/East-Fjords\/J-Seydisfjordur\/i-CDb48ZR\/1\/CjwPXf3VGdLDFxGGx2Mbdb25pfMWQ6DWSbmNJvcnS\/L\/road_Seydisfjordur_Iceland-3520-L.jpg\" alt=\"Seydisfjordur\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Seydisfjordur<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Central Highlands and the Westfjords remain closed in winter regardless of your mode of transportation, but we were able to explore almost the rest of the island<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>the <a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/things-to-do-iceland-south-winter-attractions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">South Coast<\/a>,  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the <a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/best-things-to-do-golden-circle-winter-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Golden Circle<\/a>,  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the <a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/things-to-do-snaefellsnes-winter-attractions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Snaefellsnes<\/a> Peninsula,  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/lake-myvatn-winter-things-to-do\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lake Myvatn<\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/iceland-eastern-fjords-winter-highlights\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Eastern Fjords<\/a>.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Allow at least 7 days to complete the entire tour, but we recommend our <a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/visiter-islande-hiver-10-jours-itineraire-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10-day itinerary<\/a> so you can enjoy each stop at a leisurely pace.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Iceland\/Winter\/North-Iceland\/Myvatn\/Namafjall-Hverir\/i-KGFhqGM\/2\/NcH3tWMrrHpqw57t6MjMLhS4jdwr4VRTmdSgnQBM8\/L\/Namafjall_Hverir_Iceland-3956-L.jpg\" alt=\"Hverir in winter\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Hverir<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Without a car: Much of Iceland is still accessible<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even without a car, you won&#8217;t miss out on much near Reykjavik. The Golden Circle, the South Coast as far as J\u00f6kuls\u00e1rl\u00f3n, the Reykjanes Peninsula, and the Blue Lagoon can all be covered in a single-day excursion, as we did during a shorter trip.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/best-tours-caves-ice-iceland\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ice caves<\/a>\u2014which can only be accessed with a guide anyway\u2014can be visited either as part of a tour from Reykjavik or by private car.  <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Iceland\/Winter\/South-Coast-in-Winter\/Jokulsarlon\/Blue-ice-cave\/i-3r7NV3D\/1\/DD9vctGPkD4S3qk2BWzp7jKVdJsZvjTcBkZ2j8kPr\/L\/Jokulsarlon_ice_Caves_Iceland-3743-L.jpg\" alt=\"Blue Ice Cave in Iceland\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The real limitation is in the northern part of the island and the eastern fjords: if you don&#8217;t have a car, we recommend booking a multi-day guided tour or taking a domestic flight to Akureyri to explore the region without having to drive.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box gb-block-container\" style=\"background-color:#e4f3f6;margin-top:8%;margin-bottom:8%\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns inverse is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column texte_planif is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:58%\">\n<h5 class=\"titre_box\" style=\"padding-top:10px\">UNFORGETTABLE ACTIVITIES IN <span class=\"titre_box_manuscrit\"> winter<\/span> <\/h5>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/s\/?q=iceland+winter+ice+cave&amp;searchSource=3&amp;partner_id=R3GYW4V&amp;cmp=iceland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Visit an ice cave<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/s\/?q=iceland+winter+glacier+hike&amp;searchSource=3&amp;partner_id=R3GYW4V&amp;cmp=iceland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Glacier hiking<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/s\/?q=iceland+whale+watching&amp;searchSource=3&amp;partner_id=R3GYW4V&amp;cmp=iceland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Whale watching<\/a> (from Reykjavik, Husavik or Akureyri)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column ville-radius is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:42%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large img-portrait\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Iceland\/Winter\/South-Coast-in-Winter\/Jokulsarlon\/Blue-ice-cave\/i-46mXBBx\/1\/C87JBB8LhkDnd8m3CHST8wQkDNjkZL4xTSQ8RPfxp\/S\/Jokulsarlon_ice_Caves_Iceland-3750-S.jpg\" alt=\"ice cave in Iceland\" title=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Dealing_with_Bad_Weather_Based_on_Your_Mode_of_Transportation\"><\/span>Dealing with Bad Weather Based on Your Mode of Transportation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If you&#8217;re driving<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When driving, Iceland&#8217;s weather requires constant vigilance. Every morning, we check the road conditions on <a href=\"https:\/\/umferdin.is\/en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Umferdin<\/a>. We also follow the country&#8217;s alert system: yellow for difficult conditions, orange for potential danger, and red for extreme danger.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Always keep water, food, a flashlight, and a survival blanket in your car, in case it takes a while for a snowplow to arrive. Above all, don&#8217;t hesitate to postpone a stage by a day if the wind or snow picks up: it&#8217;s never a waste of time.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Iceland\/Winter\/Driving\/i-Cr5N566\/1\/L9dnggsJQPk6HhqXTNdvSwpVwn2XqPd2v2kcSfq2Q\/L\/Drive_Road_1_Iceland-4493-L.jpg\" alt=\"Road Condition Sign in Iceland\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If you&#8217;re on an organized tour<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On tours, the driver and the agency are responsible for handling inclement weather, which we find particularly reassuring in the middle of the Icelandic winter. If a road is closed or the wind becomes too strong, the itinerary will be changed or the tour postponed, sometimes with a refund or a free rescheduling, depending on the terms and conditions of sale. We still recommend that you read these terms and conditions before booking, especially for multi-day tours.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Iceland\/Winter\/Golden-Circle\/Drive\/i-HKCvDXc\/1\/K4smp6KZ7CSz6CdRStCwM5pkbLkThT5FLTnNvV6Mb\/L\/drive_to_Golden_Circle_Iceland-1350-L.jpg\" alt=\"Buses in Iceland in the Winter\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Our_take_Which_option_should_you_choose\"><\/span>Our take: Which option should you choose?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re comfortable on the snow and have at least a week to spare, we recommend renting a car: it offers real freedom and lets you cover a lot more ground.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">  Whether it&#8217;s your first trip in winter, a short stay, or you&#8217;re worried about driving, we recommend organized tours departing from Reykjavik, which cover most of the must-see attractions without the stress of driving.  <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Iceland\/Winter\/Reykjavik\/Town\/i-9fd3DHW\/1\/C7xh2SsxZmG7gKQMd28NWKsCWMHP76MN5RmP46sZ8\/L\/Reykjavik_Iceland-4294-L.jpg\" alt=\"Reykjavik in winter: the perfect base for your excursions\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Akureyri in winter<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_asked_questions\"><\/span>Frequently asked questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is it possible to visit Iceland in the winter without a car?<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, it is. Reykjavik serves as a base for many day trips that include the Golden Circle, the South Coast, the Blue Lagoon, and even the ice caves. Only the more remote areas, such as the northern part of the island or the eastern fjords, require a guided tour lasting several days or a domestic flight.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is a 4WD absolutely necessary for driving in Iceland in the winter?<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No, a 4WD isn&#8217;t required on Route 1, which remains paved and cleared of snow. However, it offers greater comfort and safety, especially on secondary roads. Above all, make sure the vehicle is equipped with snow tires, regardless of the model you choose.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is a road trip more expensive than a stay in Reykjavik?<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It depends mainly on the number of days and the type of accommodations you choose. A self-drive tour includes the car, hotels, and a ready-made itinerary, whereas a trip based in Reykjavik requires you to pay for each excursion separately but often allows you to find cheaper accommodations in the city. Compare the two options based on the length of your trip before making a decision.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box gb-block-container\" style=\"margin-top:8%;margin-bottom:8%\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\" style=\"max-width:700px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box_titre gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\">\n<h5 class=\"titre_box\"><span>PLAN<\/span> YOUR TRIP TO <span class=\"titre_box_manuscrit\">iceland<\/span> IN WINTER<\/h5>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-background is-style-wide hr-box-planif\" style=\"background-color:#ccd3dd;color:#ccd3dd\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns box_sans_border is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column texte_planif is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"font-size:14px;flex-basis:60%\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Best of<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"ul_box wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:14px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/landscape-iceland-winter-panorama-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Iceland&#8217;s winter landscapes<\/a><br\/><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/best-things-to-do-iceland-winter-attractions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Best things to do in Iceland in winter<\/a><br\/><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/waterfalls-iceland-winter\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The most beautiful waterfalls<\/a><br\/><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/best-tours-caves-ice-iceland\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ice caves<\/a><br\/><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/best-excursions-from-reykjavik-winter-day-trips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Best excursions from Reykjavik<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top planif-radius is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:40%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large img-portrait\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Iceland\/Winter\/Snaefellsnes\/Arnarstapi\/i-NFX9vCN\/1\/FdwFVJfh4wdx6pTCBdg5vVLNBJf4xph6CrQjkvWvp\/S\/Arnarstapi_Iceland-5203-S.jpg\" alt=\"Iceland in winter\" title=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-background is-style-wide hr-box-planif\" style=\"background-color:#ccd3dd;color:#ccd3dd\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns box_sans_border is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column texte_planif is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:60%\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Practical advice<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:14px\"><br\/><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/renting-car-iceland-tips-experiences\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to rent a car in Iceland<\/a><br\/><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/driving-iceland-winter-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Winter driving tips<\/a><br\/><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/where-to-stay-iceland-winter-best-places-hotels\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Where to stay in Iceland in winter<\/a><br\/>Itineraries: 3 days &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/4-days-iceland-winter-itinerary\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"5225\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">4 days &#8211; <\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/visiter-islande-hiver-5-jours-itineraire-2\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4866\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">5 days &#8211; <\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/visit-island-winter-one-week-itinerary-road-trip\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">1 week<\/a> &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/visiter-islande-hiver-10-jours-itineraire-2\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"2277\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10 days<\/a><br\/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top planif-radius is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:40%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large img-portrait\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Iceland\/Winter\/Driving\/i-gNPz6JD\/1\/CGfmHQKPwKJcrdGBLqMjkqvmgRwW8fC8FGFKRWX3n\/S\/South_Coast_ring_road_Iceland-2099-S.jpg\" alt=\"Driving in Iceland in winter\" title=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-background is-style-wide hr-box-planif\" style=\"background-color:#ccd3dd;color:#ccd3dd\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns box_sans_border is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column texte_planif is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:60%\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>The must-dos<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:14px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/visit-reykjavik-winter-things-to-do\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Reykjavik in winter<\/a><br\/><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/best-things-to-do-golden-circle-winter-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Golden Circle in winter<\/a><br\/><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/things-to-do-iceland-south-winter-attractions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">South coast in winter<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/iceland-eastern-fjords-winter-highlights\/\"><br\/><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/things-to-do-snaefellsnes-winter-attractions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Snaefellsnes in winter<\/a><br\/><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/lake-myvatn-winter-things-to-do\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lake Myvatn in winter<\/a><br\/><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/iceland-eastern-fjords-winter-highlights\/\">Eastern Fjords in winter<\/a><br\/><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/waterfall-seljalandsfoss-winter\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Seljalandsfoss in winter<\/a><br\/><a href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/jokulsarlon-winter\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jokulsarlon in winter<\/a><br\/><br\/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top planif-radius is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:40%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large img-portrait\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Iceland\/Winter\/South-Coast-in-Winter\/Skogafoss-Winter\/i-DnzSqr9\/1\/CCWLWFQzNvbCRFMCHkPxzrqHGtsv2GGdfgBrm6thq\/S\/Waterfall_Skogafoss_Iceland-3620-S.jpg\" alt=\"Skogafoss in winter\" title=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box_auteur_voyage gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large img_auteur_voyage img_provisoire\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Region-Lovers\/Equipe\/i-nsNF6C6\/0\/Cs2F5n96pkt9xFD9D3SVqmQspMhrKgN75nHgBqmjG\/L\/Claire-L.png\" alt=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"titre_auteur_voyage\"><span>SHE MADE THE TRIP AND WROTE THE ARTICLE \n<\/span><span class=\"titre_box_manuscrit\">Claire<\/span><\/h5>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Should you rent a car to explore Iceland in the winter, or is it better to stick with organized tours? This is one of the questions we get asked most often before a winter trip. The answer depends on your experience driving in the snow, your budget, and how much time you have.Here is our [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":6248,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-6268","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-non-classifiee","entry"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Iceland in Winter: with or without a car?<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"All our tips for deciding whether to visit Iceland in the winter with or without a car: pros, cons...\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Iceland in Winter: with or without a car?\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"All our tips for deciding whether to visit Iceland in the winter with or without a car: pros, cons...\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Iceland Lovers\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-09-09T13:14:09+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-09-09T14:03:56+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"800\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"600\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Claire\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Claire\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"9 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Claire\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/99f50c0c6981832bc8c168071e92df44\"},\"headline\":\"Iceland in Winter: with or without a car?\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-09-09T13:14:09+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-09-09T14:03:56+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":1745,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/09\\\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car.jpg\",\"articleSection\":[\"Non classifi\u00e9(e)\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\\\/\",\"name\":\"Iceland in Winter: with or without a car?\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/09\\\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-09-09T13:14:09+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-09-09T14:03:56+00:00\",\"description\":\"All our tips for deciding whether to visit Iceland in the winter with or without a car: pros, cons...\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/09\\\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/09\\\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car.jpg\",\"width\":800,\"height\":600,\"caption\":\"iceland winter with or without car\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Non classifi\u00e9(e)\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/non-classifiee\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":3,\"name\":\"Iceland in Winter: with or without a car?\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/\",\"name\":\"Iceland Lovers\",\"description\":\"Le Blog de Claire et Manu\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Iceland Lovers\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2024\\\/05\\\/cropped-Iceland-Lovers-Logos-RVB_Principal-bicolore.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2024\\\/05\\\/cropped-Iceland-Lovers-Logos-RVB_Principal-bicolore.png\",\"width\":2326,\"height\":501,\"caption\":\"Iceland Lovers\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\"}},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/99f50c0c6981832bc8c168071e92df44\",\"name\":\"Claire\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/e3566233826c32de8d7c9ef726a1087654b12cadb092acc17ee1d357687192ff?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/e3566233826c32de8d7c9ef726a1087654b12cadb092acc17ee1d357687192ff?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/e3566233826c32de8d7c9ef726a1087654b12cadb092acc17ee1d357687192ff?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"Claire\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/claire-robinson\\\/\"],\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/iceland-lovers.com\\\/en\\\/author\\\/icelandlovers\\\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Iceland in Winter: with or without a car?","description":"All our tips for deciding whether to visit Iceland in the winter with or without a car: pros, cons...","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Iceland in Winter: with or without a car?","og_description":"All our tips for deciding whether to visit Iceland in the winter with or without a car: pros, cons...","og_url":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\/","og_site_name":"Iceland Lovers","article_published_time":"2026-09-09T13:14:09+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-09-09T14:03:56+00:00","og_image":[{"width":800,"height":600,"url":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Claire","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Claire","Est. reading time":"9 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\/"},"author":{"name":"Claire","@id":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/#\/schema\/person\/99f50c0c6981832bc8c168071e92df44"},"headline":"Iceland in Winter: with or without a car?","datePublished":"2026-09-09T13:14:09+00:00","dateModified":"2026-09-09T14:03:56+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\/"},"wordCount":1745,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car.jpg","articleSection":["Non classifi\u00e9(e)"],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\/","url":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\/","name":"Iceland in Winter: with or without a car?","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car.jpg","datePublished":"2026-09-09T13:14:09+00:00","dateModified":"2026-09-09T14:03:56+00:00","description":"All our tips for deciding whether to visit Iceland in the winter with or without a car: pros, cons...","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car.jpg","width":800,"height":600,"caption":"iceland winter with or without car"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Non classifi\u00e9(e)","item":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/non-classifiee\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Iceland in Winter: with or without a car?"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/#website","url":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/","name":"Iceland Lovers","description":"Le Blog de Claire et Manu","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/#organization","name":"Iceland Lovers","url":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/cropped-Iceland-Lovers-Logos-RVB_Principal-bicolore.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/cropped-Iceland-Lovers-Logos-RVB_Principal-bicolore.png","width":2326,"height":501,"caption":"Iceland Lovers"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"}},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/#\/schema\/person\/99f50c0c6981832bc8c168071e92df44","name":"Claire","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/e3566233826c32de8d7c9ef726a1087654b12cadb092acc17ee1d357687192ff?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/e3566233826c32de8d7c9ef726a1087654b12cadb092acc17ee1d357687192ff?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/e3566233826c32de8d7c9ef726a1087654b12cadb092acc17ee1d357687192ff?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"Claire"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/claire-robinson\/"],"url":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/author\/icelandlovers\/"}]}},"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car-600x400.jpg","featured_image_src_square":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/iceland-winter-with-or-without-car-600x600.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Claire","author_link":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/author\/icelandlovers\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6268","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6268"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6268\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6292,"href":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6268\/revisions\/6292"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6248"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6268"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6268"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/iceland-lovers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6268"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}