What's the weather like in Iceland in December

Snow-covered volcanoes, frozen waterfalls, and skies that just might light up with the Northern Lights, the weather in Iceland in December may be unpredictable, but it sets the stage for some seriously unforgettable travel.

From must-do winter adventures to what you need to know about crowds and costs, here’s how to make the most of Iceland in its darkest (and arguably most magical) month.

Iceland in December at a glance

• Average temperatures hover around 28-36°F (-2 to 2°C), with colder conditions in the north and higher elevations.
• Snow, wind, and icy roads are common, but so are clear, crisp days perfect for exploring.
• Limited daylight (around 4-5 hours) creates ideal conditions for spotting the Northern Lights.
• Early December tends to be quieter, with fewer tourists and better prices.
• Crowds pick up closer to Christmas and the New Year, especially in Reykjavik and the Golden Circle areas.

What is the weather like in Iceland in December?

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland in December, be ready for true winter. Average temperatures range from 30°F to 37°F (-1°C to 3°C), and daylight is limited; Reykjavik gets just 4 to 5 hours of sun a day.

Snowfall is common, especially outside the capital, turning the landscapes into a frozen wonderland. Roads can be icy, but the dramatic scenery makes up for the challenge.

Despite the cold, many consider December the best time to visit Iceland if you're chasing the Northern Lights. With long nights and clear skies, your chances of seeing the aurora are high, especially in more remote areas away from city lights.

Average daily temperatures in December

Iceland experiences a winter chill in December, with average temperatures ranging between 30°F to 37°F (-1°C to 3°C). Expect cold weather, especially in northern and inland areas.

With limited daylight hours (4 to 7 hours) and the possibility of snowfall, you should dress warmly and be prepared for windy conditions.

Keep in mind that weather conditions can vary from region to region, so checking local forecasts is key to enjoying a comfortable, rewarding trip to Iceland in December.

Is December a good time to visit Iceland?

December is a bold but rewarding time to explore Iceland, if you plan it right. The days are short, the weather in Iceland in December can be wild, and road conditions change fast. But the winter landscapes? Unreal. Think snow-covered lava fields, frozen waterfalls, and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights almost any clear night.

While not everything is accessible, you can still tackle some of the best road trips in Iceland, including parts of the Golden Circle and the South Coast. Just be sure to check the weather and road conditions daily.

And when the cold bites? That’s when Iceland's geothermal pools come into their own. There’s nothing like soaking in hot mineral-rich water while the air around you hovers below freezing.

Why December is a good time to visit:

• Northern Lights season: Long nights mean better chances to spot the aurora, especially in more remote areas with little light pollution.
• Geothermal soaking: This is the perfect time to enjoy Iceland's geothermal pools, from the famous Blue Lagoon to local favorites like Reykjadalur and the Secret Lagoon.
• Snow-covered scenery: Iceland’s dramatic landscapes look even more surreal under a blanket of snow and ice.
• Winter road trips: The Golden Circle and South Coast, are still doable, just pack winter gear and check road safety updates.
• Fewer tourists (early in the month): Visit before the Christmas rush for lower prices and a quieter experience at top sites.

What about the crowds and costs?

If you visit Iceland in December, you can expect smaller crowds than you would during the peak summer months. This makes for a more serene and intimate experience. 

Accommodation prices may be lower than during the high season, all the better if you're traveling on a budget.

However, keep in mind that costs can vary, and some accommodation options and tours may have special vacation pricing. 

In addition, while December offers a chance to enjoy Iceland's winter beauty with reduced crowds, it's essential to book in advance. Also, note that some attractions may have reduced operating hours during the vacation season.

Where to go in Iceland in December

Winter transforms the landscape, and some of the best places to visit in Iceland in December are at their most dramatic under snow and low winter light.

From icy waterfalls to steaming geothermal pools, this is the month for surreal scenery and serious adventure. Just be prepared for unpredictable weather in Iceland in December and very short days.

Golden Circle

The Golden Circle remains one of the best winter routes for first-time visitors. Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the erupting geysers at Geysir are all accessible by road and even more striking in December.

Snow adds to the atmosphere, and many tours combine sightseeing with a dip in a geothermal pool or an evening Northern Lights hunt.

South Coast

The South Coast is still reachable in winter and worth it for sights like Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, both often surrounded by ice – a dramatic route to include on 10-day Iceland trips if road conditions allow. Black-sand beaches near Vík and the basalt columns of Reynisfjara are stunning this time of year. Just check road conditions daily; storms can sweep in quickly.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik sparkles in December. Christmas lights and festive markets brighten up the city’s long nights, while bars, museums, and music venues offer a warm escape from the cold. It’s also a great base for day trips to nearby hot springs or guided Northern Lights excursions.

Mývatn area (North Iceland)

For those who want to venture further, the Mývatn region offers geothermal activity, frozen lava fields, and quieter aurora viewing. This area gets more snow and is colder than the south, but it’s less crowded and feels truly wild in winter.

Things to do in Iceland in December

While there are tons of things to do in Iceland around the year, here's a breakdown of some of the best things to do in December.

Visit ice caves

Visiting Iceland's ice caves in December is a magical and unique experience. As winter blankets the country, they become more accessible as they reveal their stunning crystalline formations. 

Guided tours are available to take you through these natural wonders. Just make sure you book in advance and dress up warm. 

Visit Iceland's Golden Circle

Exploring Iceland's Golden Circle in December is a magical experience. 

While daylight hours are limited, iconic attractions like Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park take on an icy grandeur.

Just be sure to keep an eye on weather conditions as snow and ice can affect road travel.

Soak in a geothermal pool surrounded by snow

There’s nothing like easing into a naturally heated pool while snowflakes fall around you. Popular spots like the Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon near Reykjavik are open year-round, but for a quieter experience, try the Secret Lagoon or a local hot spring in the countryside.

Explore Iceland’s frozen waterfalls

The icy weather in Iceland in December transforms waterfalls into otherworldly scenes. Gullfoss thunders through a snowy canyon, while Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss often freeze at the edges, creating dramatic ice formations.

It’s cold and slippery, so wear proper trunks, but the winter atmosphere makes these spots even more impressive than in summer.

Plan your trip with our Iceland itineraries

Our Iceland itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point, perfect for planning, but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.

• Iceland itinerary 5 days: A quick trip hitting Iceland’s highlights. Visit Reykjavik, the Golden Circle and take in the stunning scenery of the South Coast.
• Iceland itinerary 10 days: Ten days allows for a more relaxed pace and a chance to see multiple regions, including the East Fjords or Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
• Iceland itinerary 14 days: Two weeks means you can really explore Iceland in depth, including the Beltway and possibly the remote Westfjords.
• Iceland Beltway itinerary: A full circuit of Iceland’s Beltway, typically done in 7-10 days. Expect constantly changing landscapes, from glaciers to fjords to volcanic plains, and the freedom to explore each region as you go.