Top 15 Things To Do In Iceland In Winter - Perfect Iceland Winter Travel Guide (2024)

Winter in Iceland is all about a plethora of activities to enjoy and stunning landscapes to explore. Check this list of some of the best things to do in Iceland in winter, the places you can visit in Iceland in winter, and Iceland travel tips for a memorable vacation.

Ready to turn your Iceland adventure into the ultimate wanderlust content? We’ve rounded up 15 bucket-list experiences that combine otherworldly vibes with pure Arctic magic.

From dreamy ice cave explorations to cosy geothermal dips, these unforgettable things to do in Iceland in winter prove this country hits differently when it’s draped in snow and northern lights.

Time to level up your winter travel game with experiences that’ll have your followers living vicariously through you!

Think chasing the ethereal aurora borealis across pitch-black skies, or cruising through crystal blue ice caves that give total fantasy world energy during your trip to Iceland in winter.

Don’t sleep on snowmobiling across ancient glaciers or soaking in the aesthetic of Blue Lagoon – these moments aren’t just for social, they’re core memories in the making.

These winter adventures blend peak wanderlust with serious main character energy.

With steamy hot springs under starlit skies, wild glacier hikes serving up panoramic views, and dreamy traditional fish restaurants in Reykjavik’s charming streets, you’ll be living your best Nordic life 24/7.

The best part? Whether you’re whale watching in Húsavík’s snowy harbour or road-tripping the iconic Ring Road past frost-covered waterfalls, every moment is picture-perfect!

1.) Luxury Winter Bathing at Blue Lagoon

Sky Lagoon offers a blissful escape in its 38°C geothermal infinity pool with stunning views of snow-capped mountains.

Visitors can enjoy their signature hot-cold therapy ritual or relax with a prosecco while taking in the scenery.

For the best experience, visit during sunrise/sunset or early morning hours (9-11 AM), with winter months offering the most magical atmosphere.

2.) Epic Ice Cave Adventures in Vatnajökull

Discover the enchanting blue ice caves that form each winter within Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier.

These natural wonders feature glowing tunnels and chambers made of centuries-old compressed ice, creating unique patterns and colours perfect for photography.

The caves are best experienced from November to March (especially January to February) with guided morning tours, which should be booked 2-3 months ahead.

3.) Northern Lights at Vik Cave

Vik’s sea caves provide a unique natural frame for viewing the northern lights in Iceland, with the cave’s silhouette creating a dramatic backdrop, making it one of the best things to do in Iceland in winter.

Watch as the aurora borealis displays ethereal colours from green to purple against the night sky.

For optimal viewing, visit between September and March during late hours (10 PM – 2 AM), preferably during a new moon and on less crowded weekdays.

4.) Highland Adventures by Campervan Touring

Experience Iceland’s highlands by campervan, offering the freedom to explore moss-covered lava fields and misty mountains at your own pace.

The journey provides endless opportunities for photography and spontaneous adventures through dramatic landscapes. This experience is amongst the top things to do in Iceland in winter.

For the best experience, visit between October and April when crowds are smaller, but be sure to book a 4×4 campervan in advance and monitor road conditions.

5.) Cozy Winter Cabin Mountain Retreat

Luxurious mountain cabins offer a cosy retreat in Iceland’s winter landscape, featuring panoramic windows ideal for viewing the northern lights and snow-covered peaks.

These modern hideaways combine comfort with wilderness, allowing guests to enjoy stunning sunrises and stargazing from private decks.

For the best experience, book a south-facing cabin between November and March, with mid-week stays offering better rates and availability.

6.) Black Sand ATV Adventures

Experience an exhilarating ATV adventure across Iceland’s black sand beaches and volcanic terrain, reaching remote areas inaccessible by car.

These guided tours combine thrills with photography opportunities, allowing riders to capture unique perspectives of the rugged landscape.

Visit between November and March for dramatic snow-on-black-sand contrasts, and opt for early morning tours (9-11 AM) for better lighting and smaller groups, but remember to dress warmly.

7.) Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Photography

Jökulsárlón lagoon showcases ancient glacial ice chunks glowing in ethereal blue hues as they break off from Europe’s largest glacier.

This photographer’s paradise offers endless compositions of ice formations against winter skies, making it a popular destination for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

The most dramatic scenes occur during the winter months (December-February), especially during the golden hour, with early mornings providing the quietest time for photography.

8.) Reynisfjara Black Beach Exploration

Reynisfjara’s black sand beach features dramatic basalt sea stacks and geometric columns, creating a striking contrast against the winter sky and foamy waves. Visiting this beach is one of the top things to do in Iceland in winter.

This iconic location offers opportunities to spot nesting seabirds while experiencing the moody atmosphere of Iceland’s winter coastline.

For the best experience, visit during the early morning hours (8-10 AM) to avoid crowds and catch soft winter light, but stay cautious of the unpredictable winter waves.

9.) Skógafoss Winter Waterfall Wonder

Witness Skógafoss waterfall become a majestic winter spectacle with its 60-meter cascade surrounded by snow-dusted cliffs and ice formations.

Visitors can climb stairs for panoramic views or experience the waterfall’s power up close, though caution is needed on icy paths.

The best time to visit is early morning before 10 AM during December through February when fewer crowds and winter conditions create a magical atmosphere.

10.)  Visit the Hallgrímskirkja Church

Marvel at Reykjavík’s Lutheran church, inspired by Iceland’s basalt columns, stands as a striking architectural masterpiece, especially beautiful when covered in snow against the winter sunset.

The church’s tower offers panoramic views of the snow-covered capital and is particularly stunning when illuminated during brief winter daylight hours.

Visit between 3-4 PM in winter months for the best lighting, and consider attending musical events for an unforgettable acoustic experience with smaller crowds.

11.) Watch Volcanic Aurora Night Spectacle

Experience the extraordinary spectacle of the northern lights dancing above Fagradalsfjall’s active volcano, creating a rare display where molten lava meets ethereal auroras.

Guided evening tours take visitors to safe viewing spots to witness this unique convergence of nature’s most dramatic shows. It is on top of the list of things to do in Iceland in winter.

The best viewing occurs between September and March on clear, cold nights (9 PM to 1 AM), with specialized photo tours available to capture this remarkable phenomenon.

12.) Visit the Black Church in Búðakirkja

Discover Búðakirkja, Iceland’s iconic black church with white trim, stands in striking contrast against snow-capped mountains and the dramatic Snæfellsnes Peninsula landscape.

This solitary wooden church creates perfect photo opportunities, especially during winter when mist adds an ethereal atmosphere.

For the best experience and photography, visit during golden hours (around 11 AM in winter) on mid-week mornings when crowds are minimal.

13.) Esja Mountain Winter Hiking

Conquer Mount Esja’s winter trails for breathtaking panoramas over Reykjavík and beyond! No wonder it is one of the best things to do in Iceland in winter.

This accessible mountain offers various hiking routes for different skill levels, with well-marked paths leading to spectacular viewpoints. The summit trail provides an exhilarating challenge in winter conditions, rewarding hikers with stunning coastal views.

Proper winter hiking gear and poles are essential. Start your hike early (8-10 AM) to maximize limited winter daylight. Check weather conditions before heading out – weekday mornings typically offer more solitude on the trails.

14.) Glacier Lagoon Kayak Adventure

Paddle through a unique winter kayaking adventure through Jökulsárlón’s electric-blue icebergs, getting an eye-level view of ancient ice formations.

Guided tours in Iceland in winter provide thermal suits and equipment while offering insights about glacier formation and climate impact.

The best experience comes during early morning sessions (9-11 AM) when the waters are calmest and lighting is optimal for photography, but be sure to book at least two weeks ahead during peak season.

15.) Icelandic Horse Winter Experience

Meet native horses in Iceland, which offer a unique winter experience against snowy mountain backdrops, where visitors can learn about their special tölt gait and historic breeding.

Guided tours accommodate all skill levels, allowing close interaction with these friendly, sturdy creatures adapted to Iceland’s rugged landscape.

The best experiences come from morning tours (10 AM-12 PM) in small groups, when the horses are most active and the lighting is ideal for photography.

Experience winter’s most epic adventure with our insider’s guide to 15 magical things to do in Iceland for your Iceland itinerary!

From stepping into glittering ice caves that look straight out of Frozen to soaking in steamy lagoons while snowflakes dance around you, these bucket-list experiences prove Iceland is pure winter wonderland’s goal.

Dive into sapphire-blue glacier caves, chase the mesmerizing Northern Lights, and discover why this arctic paradise hits differently when it’s draped in snow.