Planning a winter Iceland itinerary does have its challenges, but there are benefits, too! We created a perfect 3-Day Iceland Winter Itinerary that showcases the best of the country during the coldest time of year.
Although we feared it might not be the best time to go, visiting Iceland in winter is simply what fit into our travel plans. We did not regret it!
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Why Plan an Iceland 3-Day Itinerary in Winter?
Spending a full three days in Iceland was a last-minute decision for us. We were flying from the Netherlands to Costa Rica and were able to squeeze in a quick stopover in Reykjavik.
We carefully considered the best way to arrange a 3 Days in Iceland Itinerary and came up with our ideal plan.
The first thing to consider when planning Iceland winter travel is that there are only a few hours of daylight. Second, it is essential to be prepared for the weather when visiting Iceland in January.
While the temperatures are actually milder than one might think, elements like icy roads, howling wind and blowing snow can quickly alter your Iceland travel plans.
Despite those drawbacks, there are a few spectacular things to do in Iceland in the winter – namely, the Northern Lights!
While short days can be problematic for most sightseeing, the timing is excellent for viewing the Aurora Borealis.
Planning a 3 Day Iceland Itinerary
Our detailed Iceland Itinerary provides a complete plan for your vacation. We organized each day to maximize sightseeing and experiences. Additionally, we provide a map along with essential tips for traveling to Iceland.
That said, there is a bit more that goes into planning a winter trip to Iceland, and you will need to keep track of it all. We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner!
The Best Iceland Itinerary for 3 Days in Winter
Alright, let’s dive right into it, shall we? At the end of the article we include our Top Iceland Travel Tips along with other things to do in Reykjavik in winter.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Reykjavik Winter Itinerary to plan your Iceland trip!
Day 1: Discover Reykjavik & Northern Lights Tour
Start off by exploring the sights, tastes and attractions in Reykjavik – the capital and largest city in Iceland. Then, after dark set off on one of the best Iceland activities in winter: Chasing The Northern Lights!
Reykjavik Thermal Pool
Begin with an early trip to an Icelandic thermal pool – one of the absolute best things to do in Iceland in winter.
We suggest soaking with the locals at Vesturbaejarlaug. These outdoor pools – including four Jacuzzi tubs – are open year-round. They are filled with Iceland’s natural thermal water; the hottest is 110° F!
Before entering, it is important to understand and follow the rules. This includes showering completely nude before entering the pool.
Also, bring a towel. Most places will rent them, but no need to spend the extra money if you have your own!
Alternatively, visit the famous Blue Lagoon. Although it ranks as a top Iceland attraction, it’s an expensive experience and one that we felt might not live up to the hype.
Reykjavik Walking Tour
Reykjavik in January might be cold, but it’s still a fabulous city to explore on foot! For a fantastic introduction, we recommend joining this guided walking tour.
The humorous guide provided insight into the Icelandic culture and people. He covered everything from the complicated alphabet to how they keep their hands warm while drinking beer outdoors in the winter!
Icelandic Seafood for Lunch
After the tour, head to the Old Harbor and dine on the catch of the day or fabulous fish-and-chips at Reykjavik’s oldest restaurant, Kaffivagninn.
Established in 1935, they serve filling meals in a warm and cozy space with views across the harbor.
Foodie Tip: For more advice on Icelandic food, read our guide to The Best Things To Eat in Reykjavik!
Stroll the Reykjavik Harbor
Now set off on a pleasant stroll along the harbor. As you walk north, take in the mountainous landscapes in the distance.
There are two sights to see along the route you will want to make sure you see: the HARPA Concert Hall and the Sun Voyager sculpture. Now turn back into town on Frakkastigur Street and route your way to the..
Hallgrimskirkja Church
An iconic symbol of Reykjavik, Hallgrimskirkja was built from 1945 to 1986. The unique design resembles the columned basalt rocks that are found throughout Iceland, especially along the South Coast.
Named after an Icelandic poet, the imposing structure is literally impossible to miss. You can also take an elevator up the 244-foot-tall bell tower for stunning views over Reykjavik.
Northern Lights Tour
End the first day of your Iceland in Winter Trip by chasing the Northern Lights! The Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon that creates a magnificent and mysterious green glow in the sky.
Whether or not the Northern Lights will be visible takes a very unique set of circumstances – so there are no guarantees that it will occur.
Therefore, to increase your chance of seeing them, we recommend booking a Northern Lights Tour for the first night of your trip.
During our visit to Iceland, tours were canceled for the first three nights we were in Reykjavik. Luckily, the tour operated on our last night and we were able to See the Northern Lights!
Iceland Itinerary Summer Substitution
Although the Aurora is active in the summer, the skies don’t get dark enough to clearly see them. However, one of the fun summertime evening activities is a Midnight Sun Whale Watching Tour.
Day 2: Golden Circle Day Trip, Craft Beer & Hot Dogs
On the second day of your 3 Days in Reykjavik, head out to explore the sights on the famous Golden Circle.
After your full day tour, partake in some delicious Reykjavik craft beer and sample the most famous hot dogs in Iceland.
Golden Circle Tour
A trip to Iceland wouldn’t be complete without completing this iconic 186 mile loop.
The three major sights on every Golden Circle Itinerary include an erupting geyser, a massive waterfall and Thingvellir National Park. Additionally, you can include extra stops along the route.
Our tour also included a stop at a geothermal greenhouse, where they grow fresh tomatoes in the middle of winter. Read our review and learn more about the add-on options in our article: The Best Golden Circle Tour.
Icelandic Beer
The history of beer here is quite intriguing; for 74 years – until 1989 – drinking beer in Iceland was illegal. However, times have changed and microbreweries are popping up across Reykjavik.
As it gains in popularity, the number of pubs in downtown Reykjavik specializing in craft beer are also increasing. The snug and cozy bars are a fun addition to a Winter in Iceland Itinerary.
Get a taste of what is brewing at one of the dedicated craft beer bars. Find out our top recommendations for the Best Places To Drink Craft Beer in Reykjavik.
Icelandic Hot Dogs for Dinner
An Iceland Travel Itinerary wouldn’t be complete without including a stop at the famous Baejarins Beztu Pylsur hot dog stand!
As strange as it may sound, hot dogs are immensely popular here. We recommend throwing caution to the wind and ordering them like locals do: with ‘The Works’.
The unique toppings are what makes these Reykjavik hot dogs taste extraordinary. Trust us on this one – it’s a must-eat during your 3 days in Iceland!
Day 3: South Coast Exploration
On day 3 of your Iceland winter itinerary, tour the island’s southern coast, which is home to some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery!
Tour of Iceland’s South Coast
This region consistently ranks as one of the best places to visit in Iceland, and the top sights can be reached on a Full Day Tour from Reykjavik.
Often blanketed in snow, the South Coast is perhaps even more beautiful in wintertime. In fact, we believe these destinations are the prime places to visit in Iceland in winter.
The top attractions in South Iceland are the country’s most famous waterfalls. Coupled with the frozen land around them, they really are a must-see!
Other sights include glaciers and icebergs, depending on which tour you choose. However, the most photographed spots are the coastal village of Vik, the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach.
For a full description of what to expect, read this review of our Iceland South Coast Tour.
Reykjavik Map of Sights
Use this Google Map for an online version of our Iceland Itinerary Map below.
More Things To Do in Reykjavik, Iceland
Have more time to explore the sights in Reykjavik? Consider visiting these other top attractions in Iceland!
Budget Tip: Save money on admission to popular Reykjavik sights with a City Card.
Perlan
Built as a geothermal water storage facility, Perlan is also an entertainment hub that houses exhibitions, a unique Northern Lights planetarium, a restaurant and a viewing platform.
Reykjavik Museums
There are numerous museums in Reykjavik that are aimed to educate and entertain tourist.
Some of the most popular are the Viking Saga Museum, the Settlement Exhibition and the National Museum of Iceland.
The Icelandic Phallological Museum (aka the Reykjavik Penis Museum) and the Punk Museum (which is housed in an old underground public toilet) are some of the quirky places to visit in Reykjavik.
More Tours for your 3 Days Iceland Itinerary
While the winter conditions may make it difficult to stray too far from Reykjavik on a short 3 Day Iceland Trip, there are some unique tours that you could add to your visit.
Ice Caves
On this Katla Volcano Ice Cave Tour, you ride through the wintery landscapes of the South Coast to the town of Vik. The next stop is Myrdalsjokull Glacier, where you will strap on crampons for a hike to the Katla Ice Cave!
Jokulsarlon Glacier and Diamond Beach
On this Full Day Tour from Reykjavik you travel all the way to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Here you will see icebergs floating on the water and washing up on the black sands of Fellsfjara (aka Diamond Beach).
Iceland Itinerary Tips
Now that you know what to see, do and eat, we have a few essential tips – including how to get there, where to stay and what to pack!
How To Get to Iceland
Iceland is typically reached by plane, but it is also possible to arrive by cruise ship. The Keflavik International Airport (KEF) near Reykjavik has numerous direct flights from the US and Europe.
Our preferred method of getting anywhere is by flying, we are JetSettingFools, after all! We search for the best deals on airline tickets on Skyscanner.
The Keflavik Airport is about a 45 minute drive from the Reykjavik city center. We went with FlyBus, for the price and robust schedule. They drop off at the BSI Terminal; from there you can hail a Hopp (similar to Uber).
Where To Stay in Iceland
In Reykjavik there is a wide range of accommodations from budget hostels to luxurious hotels. We opted for an Airbnb that was centrally located, affordable and quite cozy!
For those who prefer staying in traditional accommodations, there are many Reykjavik hotels to choose from in – or close to – the city center.
Check out these top-rated properties (based on guest reviews): Canopy by Hilton and Hotel Lotus Reykjavik.
What To Pack for Iceland
We have just a few last hacks for your Iceland Packing List. Go ahead and grab your FREE Template and let’s get started!
Weather Gear for Iceland
Iceland is cool or cold year-round – so it is important to be prepared with weather-appropriate clothing. We recommend layering clothes and bringing a water-resistant jacket any time of year.
Iceland Winter Footwear
I made the huge mistake of not buying boots. While my favorite trainers were fine for city walking, they failed miserably on the tours. Even though I was wearing double socks for our Northern Lights outing, my feet were frozen!
Travel Camera
The Icelandic landscapes are exquisite! Don’t rely on your phone, upgrade to an actual camera that will truly capture the amazing scenery.
We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens. It comes bundled with an impressive starter kit, which makes it a perfect budget camera for beginner photographers.
Day Pack
Whether you prefer a backpack or a suitcase, you’ll certainly want a great day bag to organize all your everyday travel essentials. Knowing where everything is stored is key to a stress-free travel day!
Travel Insurance
Trip insurance may be useful in the unfortunate case of canceled flights or lost luggage, but could also help with illness or injury abroad. If you haven’t already, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to Iceland! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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