7 Unmissable Day Trips From Reykjavik in Winter (No Car!)
Wondering how to see Iceland’s raw and wild winter beauty, without having to navigate the icy roads yourself?
Well, in this blog post, I’m going to show you the 7 best day trips from Reykjavik in winter that don’t require a car, so you can see the very best of Iceland during your trip (without the stress of driving through snow and wind!)
I mean, the idea of navigating Iceland’s icy winter roads alone feels intimidating, right? Especially if you’re a solo traveller.
Well, when I visited Iceland solo in January, I had the exact same worry.
I wanted to get out in nature and see Iceland’s prettiest highlights, but I definitely didn’t want to get behind the wheel and drive myself.
So it’s safe to say that when I discovered just how easy it is to explore Iceland with guided day tours, I booked my flight that same day!
I still got to stand under powerful waterfalls, chase the Northern Lights, and walk through lava fields – without the stress of driving!
I’ve personally taken all but one (we’ll get to that in a bit!) of these tours – in very real and wild Icelandic winter conditions! So I can tell you exactly which ones are worth your time, money and energy.
Let’s get to it!
Disclaimer: Some of the links on this blog are affiliate links. That means if you click on one and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission – at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products, places and services I genuinely love and use on my own solo travels. Thank you for supporting my adventures so I can continue to provide free content on this blog! 💛
Why You Don’t Need a Car to See Iceland in Winter
I’m gonna be real, winter driving in Iceland definitely isn’t for the faint-hearted, but luckily it also isn’t a requirement for visiting Iceland in winter!
With frequent snowstorms, icy roads, unpredictable wind gusts and ever-changing weather forecasts, renting a car in winter (especially as a solo traveller) can quickly turn from exciting to stressful, or even dangerous.
But don’t worry, because you can still see everything that makes Iceland magical, from powerful waterfalls to the famous Northern Lights, without a car!
FYI: Reykjavik is the perfect base for Iceland in winter because so many of the best day trips leave directly from the city centre.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re visiting Iceland in winter, always choose small-group or minibus tours over the big coach tours. They’re friendlier, safer in bad weather, and include extra stops that big buses can’t access.
1. The Golden Circle
If you only have time for one of these best day trips from Reykjavik in winter, please make it this one!
The Golden Circle may be touristy but it is truly iconic, packing in everything that makes Iceland unforgettable (waterfalls, geysers, volcanic craters, lava fields…) into one small, easily explored area.
Plus, you’ll even enjoy a two-hour relaxing soak in the equally iconic Blue Lagoon to finish, after a long, chilly day of sightseeing.
In my opinion, this is one of the best day trips from Reykjavik in winter, my personal favourite that I took on the whole trip, and the perfect introduction to Iceland!
In January, I personally took this Small Group Golden Circle, Crater & Blue Lagoon Minibus Tour by Bus Travel Iceland.
You’ll first visit Thingvellir National Park, where Iceland’s first parliament was founded (and where you can literally walk between two continents!)
I also saw the sunrise here at 10am, which was so magical!
Then you’ll explore the geyser geothermal area with your guide, and feel the earth shake as Strokkur (Iceland’s most reliable geyser) erupts every few minutes.
Next up, watch the hazy sunlight hit Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most beautiful and powerful waterfalls.
There are two incredible viewpoints to enjoy here, offering spectacular views that are every photographers dream!
The final sightseeing stop is the incredible red-rocked Kerid crater lake, where you can take a (fairly easy) hike around the crater and admire the frozen-over lake below.
We then ended our perfect day at the iconic Blue Lagoon, which is Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa. And trust me, relaxing in that warm water after a busy day of sightseeing is the perfect way to finish!
Where You’ll Visit:
- Thingvellir National Park (the historic rift valley where you can see the tectonic plates!)
- Strokkur and Geysir geothermal area
- Gullfoss waterfall
- Kerid volcanic crater
- The Blue Lagoon
Katie’s Top Tip: If you want to find out more about each stop, I’ve shared even more detail in my full post: How to See Iceland’s Golden Circle in Winter (Without a Car) so you’ll know exactly what to expect!
2. Iceland’s Magical South Coast
Iceland’s South Coast is one of the most popular day trips from Reykjavik in winter, famous for its waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches you’ve probably seen all over Instagram!
In January, I took this South Coast Small-Group Adventure by Arctic Adventures!
The driver handles all that tricky winter driving (I felt so safe the entire time, even on snow and ice!), while you sit back and enjoy the spectacular views from your window, as well as stories of folklore from your guide.
The tour visits all the biggest highlights of the South Coast in one full day.
We started at Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, where you can even walk behind the powerful waterfall itself if it’s not too icy (follow up to date advice from your guide on this!)
Then we drove a little further to Skógafoss Waterfall, where you watch the powerful falls thunder down, right in front of the viewing area!
(I don’t think I’ve ever been so close to such a powerful waterfall. It was a seriously cool experience!)
Next up was my personal highlight of this day trip, the truly incredible Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, famous for its dramatic basalt columns, sea stacks and of course the infamous sneaker waves.
We also got to see Reynisfjara’s famous sea stacks from above, from the church in the village of Vik.
This incredible day trip then ended with a walk along Sólheimajökull Glacier.
The weather was not playing ball by this point, with thick cloud and snowfall, but it was still a truly incredible experience.
Just having the opportunity to walk along a glacier filled me with such awe and respect for Iceland!
I personally loved this day trip because it has some of Iceland’s most dramatic scenery in just a single, short stretch of road, so there’s always something to look at!
Where You’ll Visit:
- Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
- Skógafoss Waterfall
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
- Vík Church
- Sólheimajökull Glacier
For a closer look at each stop (and to find out what it’s really like to visit Iceland’s South Coast solo), you can read my full guide: Iceland’s South Coast in Winter: What It’s Really Like.
Katie’s Top Tip: Reynisfjara Beach is beautiful but can be dangerous. Never turn your back to the sea, as the “sneaker waves” here can be deadly. For a safe visit, make sure you follow the warning signs and don’t get too close to the water.
3. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach
Okay, I’m not gonna lie, this one is an incredibly long day (around 14 to 15 hours round trip, leaving at around 7am and not getting back until 9pm), but I still 100% recommend it!
In fact, out of all of the unmissable day trips from Reykjavik in winter that I took in January, this is still the one that sticks with me for being the most raw and unforgettable.
If you want to see Iceland at its most dramatic, with floating blue icebergs, jet-black beaches, powerful waterfalls and fewer tourists around, please don’t skip this one!
I personally joined this Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach tour by Icelandia and, as I said, it was so worth every hour spent on the road. (And there were a lot of hours!)
You’ll make several photo stops along Iceland’s South Coast on the way out and back, including Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, and the village of Vik.
But don’t worry about too many repeats from the South Coast day tour, because you’ll get to see the mighty Seljalandsfoss Waterfall lit up at night, which is such a different experience!
When you finally reach the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, you’ll see 1,000-year-old icebergs breaking off from the glacier and floating across the water.
Plus, you can walk along the edge of the glacier lagoon itself, and if you’re lucky you might also spot seals lounging on the icebergs!
Then, just across the road is the famous Diamond Beach, where the same ice chunks from the lagoon wash up on the black sand and sparkle like… diamonds!
Stops on this tour:
- Seljalandsfoss Waterfall (you’ll see it at night this time, all lit up!)
- Skógafoss Waterfall
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
- Diamond Beach
- Scenic drive through Skaftafell and Vatnajökull National Park
For a comprehensive guide to Iceland’s South Coast in winter (and why it’s one of my favourite places in Iceland for solo travellers!), check out my full blog post: Iceland’s South Coast in Winter: What It’s Really Like
Katie’s Top Tip: This is a really long day, so plan ahead to make sure you’re comfortable. Bring plenty of snacks, water and a power bank for your phone. And layer up, too, as the weather changes constantly along the south coast. I also brought a cosy fleece with me, just for the coach, so I could change out of my cold things during the driving times.
4. Northern Lights
The Northern Lights are on everyone’s Iceland bucket list, right?
And yep, I get it. Chasing them is easily one of the best day trips from Reykjavik in winter!
The company I went with on my small group chase doesn’t run anymore, but this Small Group Northern Lights Hunt from Aurora Viking is very similar.
It’s a small-group minibus experience run by two local guides, who’ve spent decades finding the lights (even when others can’t!)
I sadly didn’t see the aurora during my time in Iceland (the clouds had other plans!) but with this option, they’ll take you out again for free if you don’t spot the lights!
I also love that this tour turns the (famously tedious!) waiting into a great experience, with Viking props, storytelling, hot chocolate and gingerbread cookies!
Plus their minibus means you can get off the main tourist routes, away from the big coaches, to darker, quieter spots for a better chance of spotting the lights.
Highlights of this tour:
- Small-group minibus experience (maximum 18 people)
- Run by passionate local guides with decades of experience
- Free retry if you don’t see the lights
- Fun extras like Viking props, photos, hot chocolate and gingerbread
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re not sure how to capture the lights, don’t worry! Most tours (including this one) bring professional cameras and share photos with you afterwards, so you can just relax and enjoy the show!
5. The Blue Lagoon
After days of chasing waterfalls and walking along glaciers, there’s no better feeling than relaxing into the warm waters of the Blue Lagoon!
If you want to combine the Blue Lagoon with sightseeing, this small group tour that I did, combining a relaxing soak in the lagoon with the Golden Circle, is a great way to make the most of your day!
But if you want longer to relax in the water and maybe book a treatment or two, then this Blue Lagoon Admission with Transfers from Reykjavik tour with Icelandia is perfect!
The Blue Lagoon was actually created by accident in the 1970s, when runoff from a nearby geothermal power plant formed a pool in the lava field.
Locals then discovered that the mineral-rich waters and silica mud was amazing for the skin, giving us the iconic Blue Lagoon we know and love!
Today, you can choose between a Comfort or Premium package (the main difference being a cosy robe, extra face masks, and an extra free drink for Premium).
Plus, your return ticket is always flexible, so you can stay at the lagoon complex as long as you want.
In January, I absolutely loved visiting in the late afternoon and watching the lagoon slowly turn dark! It was such a relaxing experience!
What’s included:
- Round-trip transfers from Reykjavik
- Entry to the Blue Lagoon
- Face mask, drink, and optional upgrades to the Premium package
- Flexible return ticket (stay as long as you like!)
For more planning tips and what to pack, check out my blog post: Iceland’s Blue Lagoon in Winter: What to Expect (and Pack!)
Katie’s Top Tip: For the ultimate relaxing experience, you could also choose to book the Retreat Spa package, which gives you a private changing room, full spa facilities for 5 hours, and access to the secluded Retreat Lagoon and spa restaurant!
6. Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike
Okay, let’s now talk about that one day trip I didn’t get to do (and am still so sad I missed!): hiking to Fagradalsfjall Volcano.
This Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike with a Geologist by GeoAdventures is definitely on my bucket list for next time!
You’ll be hiking across the Reykjanes Peninsula (which is one of the most volcanically active regions in Iceland!), with a professional geologist explaining what’s happening under your feet along the way.
You’ll then hike with your guide to an amazing viewpoint where, once you reach the top, you’ll see incredible panoramic views across the smouldering lava flows and steaming vents!
Sounds like a dream, right? It’s at the very top of my list for next time!
What you’ll see:
- Fagradalsfjall volcano eruption site
- Reykjanes Peninsula lava fields
- Panoramic crater viewpoint
7. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula
If you want a bit of everything out of your day trip from Reykjavik in winter (mountains, lava fields, black sand beaches, waterfalls, fishing villages, rugged coastlines…), the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is where you find it!
In fact, this region is often called “Iceland in Miniature,” because it has examples of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes all in one place!
I took this Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Kirkjufell Small Group Tour by Arctic Adventures and had the best time, despite the weather being wild (with wind just below the safety limit!)
Honestly though? I think the wind only added to the magic of the experience.
My two highlights from the tour are experiences that can’t easily be replicated:
- Standing on Djúpalónssandur beach and watching the sea crashing against black pebbles.
- And walking in Arnarstapi and seeing those waves hitting the cliffs below my feet.
I felt tiny and insignificant to nature in the best way here!
On this incredible day tour, you’ll visit Kirkjufell, the iconic mountain that looks like it’s straight out of a fantasy show, simply because it is.
(Game of Thrones fans, where are you?!)
Plus, the iconic Kirkjufell viewpoint also has twin waterfalls that only add to the drama!
Then wander the black sands of Djúpalónssandur Beach, where an old shipwreck lies half-buried in the pebbles and there are incredible, quirky lava formations all around.
And finally, in Arnarstapi, you’ll see the iconic stone Gatklettur bridge carved by the sea (and maybe even the waves pounding and crashing against the cliffs like I experienced, if you visit on a similarly wild day!)
What you’ll see:
- Kirkjufell Mountain and waterfall
- Djúpalónssandur black pebble beach
- Arnarstapi cliffs and Gatklettur Stone Bridge
If you want to know more about what it’s like to visit this magical region, I’ve written a full guide on it here: Why the Snaefellsnes Peninsula in Winter Feels So Magical
Katie’s Top Tip: As my January day trip shows, the weather here changes constantly, so wear layers and bring waterproof everything!
An Overview of the Best Day Trips From Reykjavik
If you’re short on time (or just want to compare your options!), here’s a round-up of the best day trips from Reykjavik mentioned in this blog post:
Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon Small Group Tour: See Iceland’s most famous sights in one day, including Thingvellir National Park, Strokkur Geyser, Gullfoss Waterfall and Kerid Crater. Then relax in the warm, blue waters of the Blue Lagoon!
South Coast Adventure Small Group Tour: Chase waterfalls at Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, walk along the black sands of Reynisfjara beach, see the incredible viewpoint at Vik Church, and witness a mighty glacier up close!
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach Tour: A long but seriously unforgettable day to Iceland’s incredible glacier lagoon, home to striking blue icebergs and (if you’re lucky!) a rookery of resident seals. Plus, explore the black sands of Diamond Beach, dotted with shimmering ice!
Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Kirkjufell Small Group Tour: See Iceland in miniature, with dramatic coastlines, imposing volcanic craters, the mountain made famous in Game of Thrones, and charming fishing villages!
The Blue Lagoon Comfort Package + Transfers: Want a slower day rather than visiting the Blue Lagoon and Golden Circle together? Book your comfort package and transfer from Reykjavik to relax in the Blue Lagoon’s geothermal waters at your own pace!
Northern Lights Minibus Tour: Chase the aurora with expert guides who know the best viewing spots, plus keep you warm and entertained along the way, with storytelling, hot chocolate and gingerbread!
Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike: Hike across lava fields and see the site of Iceland’s most recent volcanic eruptions!
Final Thoughts
You really don’t need a car to experience the very best of Iceland in winter…
Instead, you just need the right tours, a sturdy pair of boots, good waterproofs, and an open, flexible mindset!
Reykjavik makes the perfect base for solo travellers, with so many incredible day trips that let you see glaciers, geysers, volcanoes and black-sand beaches – without the stress of driving on icy roads!
So, whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights or watching the sunrise over the Golden Circle before soaking in the Blue Lagoon, these best day trips from Reykjavik in winter let you do it all safely, easily and on your own terms!
Katie’s Top Tip: If you have time or budget for a couple of tours, start with the Golden Circle (it’s the most iconic!) and then from the rest of this list, pick the one that sounds most exciting to you. Maybe that’s a relaxing day in the Blue Lagoon. Or maybe you’re heading off on that long adventure to Jökulsárlón Glacier. There’s no wrong choice!
Best Day Trips From Reykjavik in Winter: FAQs
Where to Stay in Reykjavik
When you’re planning multiple day trips from Reykjavik in winter, staying Downtown is so important, as you’ll want to be near the tour pickup points.
If you’re on a budget, KEX Hostel is classic! It’s cosy, with a social common area that’s perfect for meeting other travellers, plus female-only dorm options and live music nights!
For a mid-range stay, I personally loved Center Hotel Plaza. The staff were so friendly and accommodating (even helping me move my reservation by a night when my outbound flight was cancelled!) Plus, the hotel offers a delicious breakfast, modern design, comfy rooms and a safe and welcoming feel.
And if you’re craving luxury for your trip, the Hotel Borg by Keahotels is a dreamy option! It’s elegant, central, and perfect for solo travellers who want a little luxury after a long day exploring!
How Long to Spend in Iceland
If you’re planning to see the most popular destinations near Reykjavik like the Golden Circle, South Coast, and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, I’d recommend spending at least 5-7 days in Iceland in winter.
That gives you time for a mix of day trips, exploring Reykjavik itself, and flexibility for weather changes (this is so important!)
I break down the ideal itineraries for every timeframe in my post, How Many Days Do You Need in Iceland in Winter?
It’ll help you plan your trip around your priorities!
Is Iceland Worth Visiting in Winter?
Yes, absolutely! Iceland in winter feels like you’re visiting another planet, with frozen waterfalls, steaming hot springs, and of course, the incredible Northern Lights.
Yes, I get it, it’s cold… but that’s just part of the adventure in my opinion!
Plus, Iceland is a lot quieter in winter, so you’ll get to experience peacefulness at top attractions that you just don’t get in summer.
But I’d be lying if I said Iceland in winter is good for everyone.
Daylight is limited (around 4–6 hours a day), and the weather (as I’ve shown you in this post!) is unpredictable, which is why joining guided tours to handle logistics matters so much.
If you’re on the fence, read my honest post, Is Iceland Worth Visiting in Winter? What You Must Know, where I break down the pros, cons, and everything I wish I’d known before going.
What Are the Best Places to Visit in Iceland?
If you’re short on time, start with these best day trips from Reykjavik in winter, as they cover most of the country’s most famous sights.
The Golden Circle, South Coast, and Snaefellsnes Peninsula are top picks for first-timers to Iceland, and then the Blue Lagoon, Northern Lights tours, and Fagradalsfjall Volcano hike add a true wow factor!
If you’re looking for more inspiration, I’ve written a full guide to the Prettiest Places in Iceland.
Are These Day Trips Safe for Solo Travellers?
Yes! I found all of these tours to be safe and genuinely welcoming to me as a solo female traveller.
Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world, according to the Global Peace Index, and its tour companies are super professional.
Drivers and guides constantly monitor the weather and adjust plans instantly if conditions change.
Local Icelanders are also incredibly proud of their country, and most guides are locals who go out of their way to make sure everyone feels included and safe!
For an in-depth look at how Iceland treats solo female travellers, read my full post: Is Iceland Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
Read More About Travel in Iceland:
- The Ultimate Iceland Solo Female Travel Guide (For 2025!)
- Iceland’s Snaefellsnes Peninsula in Winter (Without a Car!)
- How to Visit Iceland’s South Coast in Winter (Without a Car)
- 7 Unmissable Day Trips From Reykjavik in Winter (No Car!)
- How to See Iceland’s Golden Circle in Winter (Without a Car)
- Iceland’s Blue Lagoon in Winter: What to Expect (and Pack!)
- 15 Iceland Travel Tips for Winter You’ll Be Glad You Know
- How Many Days Do You Need in Iceland in Winter?
- How to Spend 5 Days in Iceland in Winter (Without A Car!)
- 19 Prettiest Places in Iceland Every Traveller Must See
- Is Iceland Worth Visiting in Winter? What You Must Know
- Is Iceland Safe For Solo Female Travellers? An Honest Guide
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