Iceland Travel Guide

As you schedule tours and sightseeing, remember that December is when the daylight hours are the shortest. The winter solstice also means you get the longest hours of nighttime throughout the year, which is perfect for northern lights hunting.

December is one of the coldest months of the year in Iceland. Iceland is also very windy during this month. However, the weather in Reykjavik in December is usually more temperate because of the shelter from the wind provided by the city’s buildings.

Iceland itself is not the most budget-friendly destination. There is no way around it: Iceland is an expensive country. Even if there are ways to save a few Icelandic Króna, you should set your budget expectations accordingly. Food and drinks are above European prices. 
Budget tip: We brought some pre-packed food in our luggage, such as pasta, sauces in a plastic bag, cornflakes, etc.

In the winter, the temperature generally hovers around freezing, ranging between -1°C and 4°C. 

Snowfall is common in December. While the rest of the country might be covered in snow, Reykjavik won’t be. The capital’s climate is warmer than the rest of the country, and it tends only to be covered in snow sporadically between January and April. Many streets in Reykjavik are heated underneath, melting the snow and preventing it from becoming icy and slippery.

Make sure you have warm headwear and gloves, thermal undergarments, windproof and waterproof outer layers, and warm clothes in between. You’ll also need hiking boots if you’re planning to do some exploring or hiking. Use my ultimate winter packing list to make it easy.