Winter Magic in Iceland
Iceland is one of those rare places that somehow lives up to everything you’ve heard about it. I spent the winter holidays there, and the nature truly felt out of this world. Volcanoes, hot springs, mountains, waterfalls, black-sand beaches and vast landscapes covered in snow, it has an almost otherworldly beauty.
I don’t think Iceland is overrated. If anything, I left wanting to experience it all over again in a different season. I would love to return one summer, when the days are almost endless and the landscape transforms completely.
1. Northern lights
The Northern Lights are one of the main reasons to experience Iceland in winter. They can usually be seen between September and April, with the darker winter months offering some of the best conditions. To maximise your chances, you can book a tour with a local guide or visit the Aurora Basecamp and keep an eye on the Aurora Forecast.
2. New Year's fire works
New Year’s Eve in Iceland is quite an experience. Reykjavík lights up with fireworks across the city, and there is something particularly special about celebrating the beginning of a new year surrounded by Iceland’s winter landscape.
3. Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is popular for a reason. Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall give you a glimpse of just how extraordinary and varied Iceland’s landscape can be.
4. South Coast
Another beautiful itinerary, and one of my favourites for the diversity of the landscape. Vík, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss are all worth experiencing.
5. Hot springs
The Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon may be Iceland’s most famous spas, but there are natural hot pools throughout the country. There is something wonderful about slipping into warm water after a hike or a long drive surrounded by Icelandic nature. Secret Lagoon and Hoffell Hot Tubs are a few to explore, among many others.
6. Reykjavik Downtown
Take some time simply to wander around Reykjavík, particularly Laugavegur, its main shopping street, and pick up a few Icelandic finds or souvenirs to bring home.
7. Taste local cuisine.
I had some of the best fish and chips of my life in Iceland. Reykjavík has plenty to explore, from traditional Icelandic food to excellent seafood and, of course, its famous hot dogs.
🦈 Try shark @Kaffi Loki
🍟 Best Fish and Chips @ 101 Reykjavik Street Food and Reykjavik Fish Restaurant
🌭Vegan, Lamb, or Pork hot dogs @ Vikinga Pylsur
8. Baka Baka
Best cinnamon buns in town. Enough said.
9. Sandhollin
One of Reykjavík’s oldest swimming pools, with indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs and a sauna. A lovely way to experience Icelandic bathing culture without necessarily going to one of the famous spas.
10. Sunset Whale Watching
Head out from Reykjavík for a whale-watching trip and you may spot humpback whales and other marine life. If the weather cooperates, going towards sunset makes the experience even more beautiful.