Visiting Reykjavík in December feels like stepping into a winter wonderland. The Icelandic capital, wrapped in frost and often dusted with snow, offers an enchanting mix of natural beauty, culture, and adventure. For my four-night trip, I set out to explore the highlights of this captivating city and its surroundings, with the Blue Lagoon as one of the unforgettable stops.
Arriving in Reykjavík in the late afternoon, I was welcomed by crisp air and short daylight hours—the sun only peeks out for about four to five hours this time of year. However, the city is alive with a warm glow, thanks to twinkling holiday lights strung across the streets and an overall cozy atmosphere.
After checking into a downtown hotel (I recommend staying near Laugavegur, the city’s main shopping street), I set off for a leisurely evening walk. The compact city center is ideal for strolling, with plenty of cafés and restaurants to warm up in. My first stop was Café Babalú, a quirky spot known for its hot chocolate and homey vibe, perfect for easing into Icelandic life. Later, I indulged in a classic Icelandic dinner of lamb soup at Saeta Svinid Gastropub, a hearty meal that combats the cold outside.
The next day was all about Iceland’s iconic landscapes. I booked a guided tour of the Golden Circle, a must-do when in Iceland. This route takes you through some of the country’s most famous natural wonders, including Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall. Watching steam rise from the geysers in the freezing cold was mesmerizing, while the thundering falls of Gullfoss looked even more dramatic with the winter setting.
Back in Reykjavík, the night held a special promise: a Northern Lights tour. December is prime aurora season, and I couldn’t miss the chance to catch this magical display. After a few hours of driving away from city lights and a lot of patience, the skies delivered—a faint green band soon brightened, dancing across the heavens. It was an awe-inspiring moment, one that words hardly do justice.
On day three, I experienced one of Iceland’s most famous attractions: the Blue Lagoon. This geothermal spa is located about 45 minutes from Reykjavík, nestled in a lava field. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing, and the winter setting makes it all the more surreal.
Stepping into the milky-blue waters, surrounded by steam rising into the cold December air, felt almost otherworldly. Despite the chilly temperatures, the water was wonderfully warm, and I spent hours floating and enjoying the lagoon’s silica mud masks. There’s something magical about being outdoors in a swimsuit with snow on the ground around you, all while feeling enveloped in warmth.
Pro tip: Reserve your Blue Lagoon ticket in advance, as it can fill up, even in winter. The lagoon offers a variety of packages that include drinks, treatments, and spa access—well worth it for a full day of relaxation.
On my last full day, I decided to dive deeper into Reykjavík’s cultural scene. I started with a visit to the Hallgrímskirkja, the iconic church that dominates the city skyline. Taking the elevator to the top provided stunning panoramic views of the city, especially with the snow-covered rooftops below.
Next, I explored the Harpa Concert Hall, an architectural gem with its glass facade reflecting the winter light. If you’re a fan of contemporary design, this is a must-visit. The interior is equally impressive, and I learned more about Iceland’s vibrant music scene here.
In the afternoon, I visited the National Museum of Iceland, which gave me a deeper understanding of the country’s Viking heritage and the evolution of Icelandic culture. To round off the day, I enjoyed a delicious seafood dinner at Fiskfélagið (The Fish Company), where I sampled some of the freshest fish I’ve ever tasted.
On my final morning, I wandered through Reykjavík one last time, stopping by Kolaportið Flea Market to pick up unique souvenirs like hand-knitted Icelandic wool sweaters (lopapeysa) and local delicacies like dried fish and licorice. It was the perfect way to end my trip, with a bit of local flavor to bring home.
As my flight departed in the early afternoon, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for this winter escape. Reykjavík in December is a place where nature and culture intertwine beautifully. From the Northern Lights to the Blue Lagoon, and everything in between, it was an unforgettable journey.
Reykjavík in December is a true winter wonderland, perfect for travelers looking to embrace the season’s magic.