Reykjavik in December
Not the best time
December redeems itself with epic New Year's celebrations and cozy Christmas atmosphere. But you'll still spend most daylight hours wondering where the sun went.
Weather
December doubles down on November's misery but adds holiday cheer as compensation. Temperatures hover around freezing, daylight peaks at just 4 hours, and rain mixes with snow regularly. The darkest month of the year, literally and figuratively.
2°C high-2°C low12 rain days
Crowds & Cost
moderate crowds
~$190/day average
Events & Festivals
- •New Year's Eve celebrations
- •Christmas markets
- •Traditional Yule celebrations
December Tips
- •New Year's Eve in Reykjavik involves massive citywide fireworks - unlike anywhere else
- •Christmas markets in Ingólfstorg offer some winter warmth
- •Book New Year's accommodation a year ahead - it's surprisingly popular
All Months
Summer means midnight sun and lupine flowers painting the countryside purple. June through August brings 18-hour days, temperatures around 60°F, and the best hiking conditions. But everyone else knows this too – expect crowds and premium prices. Winter offers Northern Lights from September to March, plus that cozy hygge feeling in steamy cafes. December through February sees just 4 hours of daylight, but the aurora dancing overhead makes up for it. Spring and fall are underrated – fewer tourists, decent weather, and you might still catch the lights in September or April. Just pack layers. Icelandic weather changes faster than a toddler's mood.
Reykjavik Scores
Solo
9/10
Couples
8/10
Families
7/10
Adventure
8/10
Budget
4/10
Luxury
7/10
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