Christmas in Reykjavik - The Ultimate 2025 Local Guide

Weather in Reykjavik at Christmas

December is one of the most beautiful months of the year in Reykjavik.

It’s hard to beat those cold, crisp winter mornings with snow on the ground and warm Christmas lights glowing through the city. And once daylight fades, you might even catch the aurora borealis (Northern Lights) dancing above you.

If you’ve read our Visiting Iceland in December guide, you already know what to expect - real Icelandic winter. It’s cold, dark, and often windy, but that’s also what makes Reykjavik at Christmas so beautiful.

Christmas lands right in the middle of Iceland’s darkest month. There are only about 4–5 hours of daylight each day, and because the sun stays low on the horizon, those hours often feel like one long sunrise or sunset - bathing the city in soft golden light.

Here’s what to expect:

Average daytime temperatures range from −2°C to +4°C (30–39°F), though it often feels colder with the wind chill. The temperature usually hovers just below freezing - so don’t say we didn’t warn you, it’s cold.

Expect a mix of calm, snowy days and gusty Arctic winds - sometimes all within the same afternoon. The weather changes fast, so keep plans flexible and pack warm, waterproof layers to stay comfortable whatever the skies decide to do.

Snow is common. Reykjavik is often covered in white by early December, and roughly half the days of the month see snow. Out in the countryside, you’ll find deeper snow, frozen waterfalls, and icy roads that turn familiar sights into a real-life winter wonderland.

The good news: even in the cold, Iceland doesn’t slow down. Tours run daily, restaurants and cafés stay open, pools are steaming hot, and main roads are well maintained. Some mountain routes may close temporarily, but the Ring Road and all major day-trip routes remain open and serviced throughout the month.

What to Pack for Christmas in Iceland

It will be cold - and we want to keep you warm, happy, and ready for anything. Layers are your best friend. You’ll constantly move between chilly outdoor adventures and warm, cozy cafés or restaurants, so pack smart.

Essentials

• Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
• Warm mid layers like wool or fleece
• A waterproof and windproof outer shell or insulated parka
• Winter boots with real grip
• Warm hat, insulated gloves, and a scarf or buff
• Waterproof pants or snow pants
• Swimsuit for hot springs or local geothermal pools

Smart Extras

• Crampons or mini spikes for icy sidewalks
• Portable charger (batteries drain faster in the cold)
• Reusable water bottle - Icelandic tap water is world-class, and you can refill it almost anywhere
• A smart outfit for Christmas Eve dinners or nights out in Reykjavik

Pro tip: Dress warmly, and then add one more layer. If you do that, nothing will stop you from having an amazing time exploring Reykjavik at Christmas.

Christmas Atmosphere in Reykjavik

Reykjavik feels truly magical at Christmas. By mid-November, lights and decorations cover nearly every street, and the city begins to glow as locals start decorating their homes too. The season officially begins when Norway’s grand Oslo Christmas Tree is lit in Austurvöllur Square in late November a moment that marks Reykjavik’s official start to the holidays.

On Laugavegur, the air smells of roasted almonds and hot chocolate from cafés and street vendors, while music and laughter spill from cozy cafés and bars. The holidays here aren’t flashy - they’re cozy and personal. Families bake their own secret cookie recipes, decorate laufabrauð (traditional leaf bread), and fill the city’s restaurants and cafés with warmth and laughter.

Things to Do in Reykjavik During Christmas

Even with short days and icy weather, Reykjavik is bursting with Christmas spirit and winter magic. Here are our top local tips for making the most of the holiday season in and around Iceland’s capital.

1. Dive Into Reykjavik’s Christmas Culture

In December, downtown Reykjavik transforms into a glowing Christmas village. Streets are lined with fairy lights, the air smells of roasted almonds and cinnamon, and locals are in full holiday spirit.

Join the locals on Þorláksmessa (December 23) - one of Iceland’s most festive nights - when everyone heads to Laugavegur for last-minute shopping, live music, hot chocolate, and a drink with friends.

Other must-dos:

• Ice skate at Ingólfstorg Square surrounded by lights and Christmas stalls.
• Spot the 13 Yule Lads hidden in shop windows and around town.
• Walk around & visit the Hljómskálagarðurinn and Hallgrímskirkja lights (see more below).
• Warm up at the Settlement Exhibition or the National Museum of Iceland to add a touch of Viking history to your holiday.

It’s the coziest time of year to explore Reykjavik’s local culture - whether outside in the snow or inside with a cup of cocoa.

2. Join the Reykjavik Food Walk

To make the most of your short time in Reykjavik, join the #1 rated tour in Iceland on TripAdvisor - The Reykjavik Food Walk.

Over the course of a fun and delicious afternoon, you’ll explore the city with a local guide and taste some of Iceland’s best food - homemade lamb soup, amazing local seafood pan, the famous Icelandic hot dog, and even one of the best ice creams you’ll ever try.

It’s cozy, personal, and, in our opinion, one of the very best ways to experience Reykjavik first-hand. And in December, the whole tour gets its festive touch - with twinkling lights, holiday atmosphere, and local Christmas favourites sprinkled in.

The tour runs all month (except December 24, 25, and 31) and usually sells out over the holidays, so book early.

👉 Learn more & Book The Reykjavik Food Walk

3. Explore Iceland’s Winter Landscapes

Iceland’s nature is extra dramatic in December - think frozen waterfalls, icy beaches, and soft pink daylight. If you have time for one or two day trips, here are the local favorites:

• Golden Circle & Hot Springs: See Gullfoss, Geysir, and Þingvellir National Park, then end the day by dipping into a geothermal lagoon.
• South Coast Day Trip: Visit Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, the Black Sand Beach, and glaciers near Vík.
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Explore lava fields, coastal cliffs, and the iconic Kirkjufell mountain.
• Glacier Adventures: Try snowmobiling or an ice cave tour for a once-in-a-lifetime winter experience.

These routes are breathtaking in December and all easy to reach as day tours from Reykjavik - with hotel pickup included.

👉 See all day tours from Reykjavik here

4. Chase the Northern Lights

With long dark nights and clear Arctic skies, December is one of the best times to see the Northern Lights. 2025 also falls within a high solar activity phase, so aurora displays are expected to be frequent and bright.

You might be lucky enough to see them from the city, but your best bet is to join a Northern Lights tour where guides track live forecasts and take you to the clearest skies outside Reykjavik.

Bring warm layers, a bit of patience, and a camera - few moments feel as surreal as watching green lights ripple across an Icelandic sky.

👉 Learn more & book your Northern Lights Adventure

5. Warm Up in Hot Springs and Local Pools

There’s nothing more Icelandic than soaking in hot water while the cold air swirls around you.

Start with Reykjavik’s beloved local pools like Laugardalslaug and Sundhöll Reykjavikur, where locals go year-round to relax and chat in steaming hot tubs. For something more luxurious, visit the Sky Lagoon for ocean views and its soothing Seven-Step Ritual - or the world-famous Blue Lagoon for a full spa day experience.

Tip: Book your lagoon tickets in advance. The days between Christmas and New Year are among the busiest of the entire year.

Reykjavik Christmas Markets & Lights

Yule Town at Ingólfstorg

Right in the heart of downtown Reykjavik sits Yule Town, the city’s main Christmas market. Wooden huts line the square, selling handmade crafts, warm drinks, wool goods, and local treats. In the center sits a small ice-skating rink, surrounded by music and laughter - perfect for families or anyone looking to feel like they’ve stepped into a Christmas postcard.

Hafnarfjörður Christmas Village

Just a 20-minute drive from central Reykjavik, the seaside town of Hafnarfjörður transforms into Iceland’s very own “Christmas Town” each December. Its annual Christmas Village (Jólaþorpið), is a local favourite - a cozy market filled with festive lights, handcrafted gifts, warm drinks, and live holiday music.

You’ll find small wooden huts selling Icelandic design, handmade crafts, and seasonal treats, along with visits from the mischievous Yule Lads (Icelandic Santa Claus) and other Christmas characters. The market typically opens on weekends throughout Advent, with longer hours on Þorláksmessa (December 23) when locals gather for last-minute shopping and holiday cheer.

It’s a wonderful day trip from Reykjavik - full of authentic Icelandic charm, and perfect for families looking to experience Christmas the local way.

👉 Learn more about Hafnarfjörður Christmas Village

Hljómskálagarðurinn & Hallgrímskirkja Lights

Take a winter stroll through Hljómskálagarðurinn Park, one of Reykjavik’s most peaceful downtown spots. In December, it’s beautifully lit with festive decorations, glowing sculptures, and sparkling trees that reflect off the frozen pond - a quiet contrast to the city’s bustling main streets.

From there, walk uphill toward Hallgrímskirkja, Reykjavik’s iconic church. The view from the top of Skólavörðustígur reveals the entire city glowing beneath you - a sea of Christmas lights stretching out to the harbour and beyond. It’s a fantastic walk that you can take during a day in Reykjavik.

Heiðmörk Forest Market (Weekend Adventure)

About 15 minutes outside Reykjavik, Heiðmörk Forest hosts a small weekend market during Advent. Locals come here to buy Christmas trees, sip cocoa, and enjoy the forest atmosphere - a hidden gem if you want to escape the city crowds.

Icelandic Christmas Food & Traditions

Food plays a huge role in Icelandic Christmas celebrations - and if you’re here in December, you’ll get a chance to taste it all. From rich meats and sweet pastries to endless varieties of cookies, this season is pure comfort food heaven.

Classic Icelandic Christmas Dishes

• Hangikjöt: Smoked lamb served with potatoes, peas, and white sauce - traditionally the most common Christmas Eve staple.
• Laufabrauð: Thin, deep-fried “leaf bread” decorated with delicate cut patterns.
• Rjúpa: Rock ptarmigan, a local delicacy often served for Christmas dinner.
• Jólagrautur: Sweet rice pudding topped with cinnamon and butter.
• Smákökur: Small, buttery Christmas cookies - with countless variations passed down through family recipes.

You’ll find these dishes everywhere in December - from fancy Christmas buffets (jólahlaðborð) to cozy family kitchens.

Where to Try Them

Many Reykjavik restaurants add a few festive touches to their December menus - think local twists on traditional holiday flavours.

But one of the most Icelandic way to experience our holiday food is at a jólahlaðborð - the beloved Christmas buffet. Locals go at least once each year with friends, family, or coworkers, and the atmosphere is always warm, social, and generous.

Jólahlaðborð can take two forms: intimate family gatherings at home, where everyone brings their best homemade dishes, or the large buffets hosted by hotels and restaurants throughout December. These spreads are a feast of Icelandic Christmas classics - from smoked lamb, cured salmon and small tastings to creamy desserts - and a perfect way to taste the season like a local.

You can also experience authentic Christmas flavours on The Reykjavik Food Walk - our local foodie adventure that dives straight into the city’s seasonal tastes and stories.

A Fun Foodie Mission for Your Holiday

Try a Christmas pastry at 280 Bakery, sip a winter latte at Kaktus, and grab a bag of smákökur at Sandholt or Sweet Aurora - all local favourites for festive treats.

Icelandic Christmas Traditions & Folklore

Let’s start with a quick introduction to Iceland’s wonderfully strange - and very important - Christmas tradition: the Yule Lads.

Forget Santa. Iceland has 13 mischievous Yule Lads (Jólasveinar), each with their own name and personality. They visit one by one on the 13 nights leading up to Christmas Eve, leaving small gifts (or the occasional potato) in children’s shoes left on windowsills.

Their mother, Grýla, is a mountain-dwelling troll said to kidnap naughty children, while their enormous pet, Jólakötturinn (the Christmas Cat), is said to eat anyone who doesn’t receive new clothes before Christmas. It’s darkly funny, perfectly Icelandic, and somehow both loved and feared by kids in equal measure.

On December 24th - the main day of celebration in Iceland - families gather for a festive dinner, exchange gifts, and enjoy a cozy evening together at home.

Best Tours to Do During Christmas

With short daylight hours and ever-changing weather, joining expert-led tours is the easiest and safest way to make the most of your Christmas holiday in Iceland. These tours are designed around the season - so you can relax, stay warm, and see all the highlights without worrying about roads or daylight.

Here are our top recommendations for unforgettable winter experiences in and around Reykjavik:

1. The Reykjavik Food Walk

If you only have time for one tour in Reykjavik this Christmas, make it the Reykjavik Food Walk - the #1 rated culinary experience in the world on TripAdvisor.

It’s more than just food - it’s a guided walk through Reykjavik’s heart and history. You’ll visit a hand-picked selection of local restaurants and hidden gems while tasting the country’s most iconic dishes: warming soups, melt-in-your-mouth seafood, the famous Icelandic hot dog, and a few festive surprises along the way.

Along the route, your local guide shares stories, traditions, and a glimpse into Icelandic life during the holidays. It’s fun, delicious, and one of the most authentic ways to connect with the city.

👉 Learn more & Book The Reykjavik Food Walk

2. Northern Lights Adventure

December is one of the best months of the year to chase the Northern Lights in Iceland. The nights are long, the air is crisp, and thanks to the current solar maximum, aurora activity is stronger than it’s been in over a decade.

Join a Northern Lights Adventure Tour for the best chance of seeing them. Local guides track real-time forecasts and take you to the clearest skies - far from city lights - while helping you capture that perfect photo of the aurora dancing overhead.

Prefer something different? Try a Northern Lights Evening Cruise straight from Reykjavik Harbour. Watching the aurora ripple above the dark North Atlantic is unforgettable.

👉 Learn more & Book your Northern Lights Adventure

3. Golden Circle + Lagoon Combo

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most iconic sightseeing route - and it’s pure magic in winter. In a single day, you can experience:

• Þingvellir National Park, where Iceland’s dramatic geology meets Viking history.
• The erupting Geysir hot springs.
• The mighty Gullfoss Waterfall, often rimmed with ice and glowing in the low Arctic sun.

After exploring, warm up in a geothermal lagoon. Pair your Golden Circle tour with the Sky Lagoon or the Blue Lagoon for the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation - all in one unforgettable winter’s day.

👉 Read more & book the Golden Circle + Sky Lagoon

👉 Read more & book the Golden Circle + Blue Lagoon

4. Ice Cave & Glacier Hike Adventure

For the ultimate one-day Arctic Christmas adventure, head to Iceland’s South Coast for an unforgettable Ice Cave & Glacier Hike tour.

Gear up at Sólheimajökull Glacier and follow your expert guide across the ice, exploring deep crevasses and stepping inside a natural ice cave - a glowing blue world that feels completely otherworldly. On the way back to Reykjavik, visit Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, two iconic waterfalls that look spectacular frozen in winter light.

It’s a “super day” - a mix of Iceland’s greatest hits and hidden winter wonders that few travelers ever get to see.

👉 Learn more about the Ice Cave & Glacier Hike Tour

5. Wonders of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

If you want to see a little bit of everything Iceland has to offer - glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, cliffs, and black beaches - this full-day tour of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is the one to pick.

Travel through lava fields, fishing villages, and dramatic coastlines with views of Snæfellsjökull Glacier, famously featured in Journey to the Center of the Earth. Stops include the Arnarstapi cliffs, the black beach at Djúpalónssandur, and the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain - Iceland’s most photographed peak.

Along the way, you’ll also visit a local horse farm for a homemade lunch and might spot seals lounging on the coast at Ytri-Tunga.

👉 Learn more about the Wonders of Snæfellsnes Tour

Good to know:

Most tours run daily throughout December, except on Christmas Eve (Dec 24) and Christmas Day (Dec 25). Since many restaurants, cafés, and museums in Reykjavik also close on those dates, it can be a great idea to join a guided day tour instead on these days - it’s one of the best ways to make the most of your time while the city slows down for the holidays.

Tours that operate on the 24th and/or 25th of December 2025:

If you’re visiting over Christmas, a handful of tours continue to run even on the main holidays. Options include the Twin-Peak ATV Tour, Glacier Snowmobiling, Best Horse Riding Tour in Iceland, Glacier Snowmobile & Ice Cave Tour, and the Northern Lights Evening Cruise.

Tip: Book early - the days right before and after Christmas are among the busiest of the year.

👉 See all the best tours departing from Reykjavik here

Where to Stay During Christmas

For the best experience, stay in central Reykjavik - near Laugavegur or the Old Harbour - where everything is within easy walking distance. This way, you can enjoy the city’s Christmas lights, cafés, and restaurants on foot without worrying about transport or parking. Spend your mornings and evenings exploring Reykjavik, and use your days for one of the many incredible day tours available in December.

Top areas to stay in Reykjavik

• Choose a location near a key landmark such as Hallgrímskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, or the centre of Laugavegur, Reykjavik’s main shopping street. Try to stay within a 10–15 minute walk of these spots for maximum convenience.
• You might pay a little extra for a central location, but it’s absolutely worth it. You’ll save time, avoid transport costs, and have Reykjavik’s top attractions, best restaurants, bakeries, and coffee shops right outside your door.

What’s Open During Christmas

This is an important one - travelers always ask!

Everything in Iceland runs as normal throughout December, even during the darkest winter days - except for a few key holidays when opening hours change. Here’s what to expect:

• December 24 (Christmas Eve): Some shops are closed and most shops and restaurants close early, around 12:00–14:00.
• December 25 (Christmas Day): Almost everything is closed, though hotel restaurants and some cafés remain open.
• December 26 (Boxing Day): Most businesses reopen.
• December 31 (New Year’s Eve): Most open during the day but may close early - then fireworks all night!

Local tip: Book your holiday dinners well in advance. Not all restaurants open over Christmas & New Years Eve, and those that do fill up quickly. We recommend reserving tables (or asking us for help at info@wakeupreykjavik.com) for all nights between December 24 and January 2.

New Year’s in Reykjavik

If you’re staying through New Year’s, you’re in for something unforgettable.

New Year’s Eve (Gamlárskvöld) is one of the biggest nights of the year for locals - a wild mix of tradition, bonfires, fireworks, and celebration. Most Icelanders start the evening with a festive dinner at home or in one of Reykjavik’s great restaurants before heading out to gather around community bonfires (brennur) across the city.

As midnight approaches, the real show begins. Reykjavik doesn’t have one central fireworks display - instead, everyone lights their own. Thousands of rockets launch from every neighborhood, creating a 360° firestorm of color and sound that lasts well past midnight. It’s chaotic, beautiful, and completely unforgettable.

For visitors, one of the best viewing spots is Hallgrímskirkja Church, where you’ll have sweeping views of the city skyline glowing under the fireworks. Or, if you want the most fun, local way to celebrate…

Join the Wake Up Reykjavik New Year’s Eve Party - our annual celebration featuring great music, champagne, a fantastic crowd, and front-row views of the fireworks right from the heart of downtown Reykjavik. It’s our favorite night of the year, and it always sells out early.

👉 Learn more & book your spot for the Wake Up Reykjavik NYE Party

Tips for Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Reykjavik

• Book your dinner early: This is one of the busiest nights of the year, and restaurants fill up fast. Reserve well in advance.
• See the bonfires: They’re an essential part of the night. Check the main locations ahead of time (Ægissíða, Geirsnef, or Laugardalur are local favorites and close to the centre).
• Watch the fireworks: Hallgrímskirkja and Perlan both offer fantastic views across the city.
• Join the party: the Wake Up Reykjavik New Year’s Eve Party is sure to make the most of your NYE! Afterwards, locals keep the celebrations going until the early hours - bars and clubs stay open late, and the streets are buzzing well into the night.

Local Secrets (Because You Made It This Far)

Since you’ve made it all the way here, here are a few of my personal Reykjavik tips - local favorites that most visitors miss but are especially great to know during the Christmas season:

☕ My favorite local cafés in December:

Kaktus and Plantan (a cozy vegan coffee house) both have that perfect winter vibe - fantastic coffee, soft lighting, and a real local crowd. For the ultimate old-school Reykjavik experience, stop by Mokka on Skólavörðustígur - serving coffee and waffles since 1958. 👉 Find more in our Best Coffee & Bakeries in Reykjavik blog.

🍽 The busiest lunch spot in Iceland:

Every December, locals flock to Jómfrúin on Lækjargata for their traditional pre-Christmas lunches. It’s all about Danish-style smørrebrød, cold beer, and a shot of aquavit - the perfect way to toast the season with friends or coworkers. It’s always fully booked throughout December, but it’s worth stopping by to see if they can squeeze you in.

🍺 Icelandic Christmas beers:

Icelanders are obsessed with seasonal Christmas brews - almost 50 unique varieties are released each year, and it’s practically the only thing we drink through December. Try a few at local bars like Bingó bar, Skúli Craft Bar or Íslenski Barinn to find your favorite.

💦 The local pool ritual:

Reykjavik’s geothermal pools are the heart of local life - and they’re just as magical in winter. Sundhöllin is a local classic right in the city center, while Laugardalslaug and Vesturbæjarlaug are equally great for a relaxing soak. Visit after dark, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot the Northern Lights from the warmth of the hot tub.

Final Notes

And there you have it - our complete local guide to Christmas in Reykjavik 2025. We hope it will inspire you to have an absolutely fantastic Christmas holiday in our hometown ❤️

From glimmering Christmas lights, heartwarming traditions to seasonal Icelandic food and the Northern Lights, this season in Reykjavik is pure magic.

Here are some resources to take the next steps in your planning:

• The Reykjavik Food Walk
• Our curated collection of tours that depart from Reykjavik
• Your Local Guide to the Northern Lights
• Best Restaurants in Reykjavik 2025
• Best coffee shop & bakeries in Reykjavik 2025
  
  

"Gleðileg jól" - Merry Christmas from Reykjavik! 🎄

Written by Egill Fannar - Co-Founder of Wake Up Reykjavik

Proudly born in Akureyri but a local in downtown Reykjavik, Egill has spent over a decade helping travelers experience Iceland like locals - from cozy cafés & restaurants to hot pools and hidden adventures across the highlands.

FAQ: Christmas in Reykjavik

Is Reykjavik worth visiting at Christmas?

Absolutely. It’s festive, cozy, and often feels like a true winter wonderland when snow covers the city and Christmas lights glow on every street.

Does it snow in Reykjavik at Christmas?

Usually, yes - though it varies from year to year. On average, about half the days in December see snow. Expect a mix of snow, frost, and the occasional rain shower - and like all Icelanders, we always hope for a white Christmas.

When does the Christmas season start?

Christmas officially begins in late November, right after the lighting of the Oslo Christmas Tree in Austurvöllur Square. From then until early January, Reykjavik glows with festive lights - and many Icelanders keep their decorations up well into February or even March to brighten the long winter nights.

Can you see the Northern Lights at Christmas in Iceland?

Yes! December is one of the best months of the year for Northern Lights. The nights are long and dark, giving you the best chance to spot the aurora. You might even catch a glimpse from Reykjavik, though joining a guided Northern Lights tour will give you much higher odds and help you find clear skies.

What are the best things to do in Reykjavik at Christmas?

To make the most of your Christmas holiday in Iceland, here are the five experiences you shouldn’t miss:

Explore Reykjavik. Wander through the city’s cozy streets, visit landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja and Harpa, and take in the Christmas lights. For the perfect local introduction, join The Reykjavik Food Walk - it’s the tastiest way to get to know the city.

Experience Icelandic nature. Take 1–2 day tours from Reykjavik to see the country’s winter wilderness - think waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and volcanoes.

Taste Icelandic food. Discover why Reykjavik’s food scene is world-famous. Start with The Reykjavik Food Walk, then spend your mornings exploring local bakeries and cafés, and your evenings dining at some of the city’s top restaurants.

Dive into Icelandic culture. Visit the local swimming pools (a daily ritual here), explore museums and galleries, and stop by the city’s Christmas markets or the Ingólfstorg ice rink.

Chase the Northern Lights. Join a Northern Lights tour or head just outside the city for a chance to see the aurora dancing across Iceland’s long winter nights.

What are the best things to do in Reykjavik on December 24th?

Start your day in a cozy bakery or café for a warm breakfast, then join locals for a Christmas Eve dip at one of Reykjavik’s geothermal pools - Sundhöllin is the classic downtown choice.

Spend your morning and early afternoon exploring the city while everything is still open. Walk around Tjörnin Pond, grab a hot chocolate from a street vendor or Christmas market, and maybe pick up a small gift or two.

In the evening, enjoy a Christmas Eve dinner at a restaurant (that you’ve booked well in advance). After dinner, unwind with your travel companions and enjoy the quiet, cozy side of Reykjavik as the city settles into the holiday.

If you’d rather make it an adventure, a few tours operate on December 24th, including the Twin-Peak ATV Tour, Glacier Snowmobiling, Best Horse Riding Tour in Iceland, Glacier Snowmobile & Ice Cave Tour, and the Northern Lights Evening Cruise.

👉 See all tours here

Are restaurants open on Christmas Eve?

Most restaurants and shops close early on December 24, but several remain open for special holiday dinners.

Research restaurants and make reservations well in advance (or email us - at info@wakeupreykjavik.com - and we’ll gladly help you find a great place).

What do Icelanders eat for Christmas?

Traditionally, hangikjöt (smoked lamb) or hamborgarahryggur (glazed Christmas pork roast) are the stars of the Christmas Eve dinner table. Other Icelandic favorites include laufabrauð (decorated leaf bread), jólagrautur (rice pudding), rjúpa (rock ptarmigan), and endless varieties of homemade cookies, ice-cream, cakes, and chocolates.

Is Iceland expensive at Christmas?

Prices can be a little higher in December - especially for hotels, flights, and special Christmas or New Year’s Eve menus, which often include a small holiday premium. That said, much of the Christmas magic - the lights, snow, and festive atmosphere - is completely free to enjoy.

To save money, book accommodation early and focus on experiences that offer real local value.

Is it safe to drive in Iceland at Christmas?

Yes - locals drive daily - but winter driving in Iceland requires caution, especially outside the city. Roads can be snowy or icy, and visibility can change quickly.

If you’re confident in winter conditions, rent a 4×4 with quality winter tires and always check road.is (road conditions) and vedur.is (weather updates) before setting off.

If not, join guided day tours instead. You’ll stay safe, skip the stress, and see more - with expert local guides who know Iceland’s winter roads inside out.

What should I wear in Reykjavik at Christmas?

Think layers: a thermal base layer, warm mid-layer (like wool or fleece), and a waterproof parka or shell. Add gloves, a hat, a scarf, and insulated boots with good grip - it’s cold (around freezing) and often windy, so waterproof and windproof gear is essential to enjoy Reykjavik.

Also pack one or two smart outfits for evenings out - Reykjavik’s cafés and restaurants are relaxed but stylish, especially over the holidays.