How Many Days Do You Need in Iceland in Winter?
So you’re trying to figure out how many days do you need in Iceland in winter, because you don’t want to spend a fortune flying all that way and then realise you’ve either booked too short or way too long!
I get it.
Winter in Iceland is stunning, but it’s also unpredictable, dark and icy – and finding the sweet spot between having enough time to see all of the highlights while also not overwhelming yourself with a super long itinerary is tough.
My first solo trip to Iceland was in January, so I get it. I’ve been there.
I’ve watched the sunrise over the Golden Circle at 10am, I’ve chased frozen waterfalls, I’ve hiked through snow and ice, and I’ve walked along the edge of glaciers…
It’s magical, but it’s also unpredictable!
But I also learned (often the hard way!) how much you can really fit into a few days in Iceland, what’s better saved for summer, and which parts are totally worth the effort and cold.
So in this blog post, I’ll break down exactly how many days do you need in Iceland in winter, from quick weekend getaways to dreamy ten-day adventures – plus what you can realistically see and do in each.
By the end, you’ll know which winter itinerary fits your time, budget, and comfort level best (and how to actually enjoy it without rushing through!)
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So… How Many Days Do You Need in Iceland in Winter?
The short answer? It depends on what kind of winter trip you’re dreaming of!
Iceland in winter is absolutely magical, with frozen waterfalls, icy blue glaciers, quiet roads and a beautiful, soft light you have to see to believe.
But at this time of year, daylight hours are also short, travel takes longer than it looks on a map, and the weather can change in extremes by the minute.
So, because your personal perfect length of a trip to Iceland in winter is so subjective, the only thing I can tell you with certainty is that it’s all about balancing your dream itinerary with realism.
You can absolutely see a lot of Iceland’s highlights in just a few days.
But you will need to prioritise, be prepared to work with the limited daylight hours, and be flexible when the weather inevitably disrupts your plans.
Below, I’ve broken down what you can realistically do with 3, 4, 5, 7, and 10 days in Iceland in winter, from the highlights of the Golden Circle to the stunning South Coast and beyond!
3 Days in Iceland in Winter
If you’ve only got 3 days in Iceland, treat it like a taster trip, which is perfect for first-time visitors or a last-minute, long weekend escape.
During your 3 days in Iceland, you’ll stick close to Reykjavik and the Golden Circle, while also taking a longer day trip to the South Coast, so you can enjoy Iceland’s highlights without worrying about long, icy drives.
And don’t worry, you’ll still see all of the very best geothermal baths, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and beautiful winter scenery everyone raves about on Instagram!
With just 3 days in Iceland, base yourself in Reykjavik city centre and take organised small-group day tours to the Golden Circle and the South Coast.
3 Days in Iceland Itinerary (From Reykjavik):
Day 1: Arrive and explore Reykjavik with this 2.5 hour local-guided walking tour, taking you to key spots like Rainbow Street, Hallgrímskirkja Church and Harpa.
Day 2: This Golden Circle Tour is a classic for a reason, taking you to Thingvellir National Park, Iceland’s most active geyser – Strokkur, the majestic Gullfoss Falls, and Kerid Crater. Plus, you’ll end this perfect day at the Blue Lagoon, another Iceland must-see!
Day 3: For your final day in Iceland, join this South Coast Day Trip to see some of Iceland’s best beaches, viewpoints and waterfalls. From the powerful Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss Falls to the iconic Reynisfjara black sand beach, this tour is classic Iceland in one day!
Katie’s Top Tip: Don’t overpack your schedule if you only have 3 days in Iceland. In winter, the sun sets around 3–4pm, so plan to see one or two big sights each day (guided tours will plan this for you!) and then leave room for weather disruptions, soaking in the Blue Lagoon and maybe even chasing the Northern Lights!
4 Days in Iceland in Winter
With 4 days in Iceland, you’ve got a little more breathing room, with enough time to see Reykjavik, the Golden Circle and the South Coast.
Plus, with your extra day, take the sightseeing up a notch with a day trip to “Iceland in miniature” – the Snaefellsnes Peninsula (home to that Game of Thrones mountain, Kirkjufell!)
I would still stay in central Reykjavik for the whole trip, and join small group tours to really make the most of the limited daylight hours and time you’ve got in Iceland.
During your 4 days in Iceland, expect to see powerful waterfalls, majestic mountains, stunning coastal scenery, striking black sand beaches, and maybe even the Northern Lights!
4 Days in Iceland Itinerary (From Reykjavik):
Day 1: Arrive and explore Reykjavik with this 2.5 hour local-guided walking tour, taking you to key spots like Rainbow Street, Hallgrímskirkja Church and Harpa.
Day 2: This Golden Circle Tour is a classic for a reason, taking you to Thingvellir National Park, Iceland’s most active geyser – Strokkur, the majestic Gullfoss Falls, and Kerid Crater. Plus, you’ll end this perfect day at the Blue Lagoon, another Iceland must-see!
Day 3: Join this South Coast Day Trip to see some of Iceland’s best beaches, viewpoints and waterfalls. From the powerful Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss Falls to the iconic Reynisfjara black sand beach, this tour is classic Iceland in one day!
Day 4: For your final day in Iceland, join this small group tour to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula (often called “Iceland in miniature”!) You’ll get to see the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain with its picturesque twin waterfalls, witness Iceland’s wild Arnarstapi coastline, and marvel at the rugged lava formations on Djúpalónssandur beach!
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re up for more of an adrenaline hit, swap the classic South Coast tour for a guided glacier walk on Sólheimajökull Glacier! You’ll see similar sights to the original sightseeing tour, with the added bonus of a 3-hour hike on the ice!
5 Days in Iceland in Winter (My Top Choice!)
5 days in Iceland is, in my opinion, the perfect amount of time to see Iceland in winter without feeling rushed!
It’s also long enough to get off the tourist track a little, with a visit to the incredible Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, but still manageable for a first solo trip.
You’ll have time to visit the Golden Circle, South Coast and Snaefellsnes Peninsula as before, with an added day trip to marvel at Iceland’s most famous glacier lagoon and the Insta-famous Diamond Beach!
Because this is a copy of my exact winter in Iceland itinerary, I’ve already got a full 5-day winter itinerary in Iceland here on the blog, which breaks all of this down in detail.
But here’s a quick overview…
5 Days in Iceland Itinerary (From Reykjavik):
Day 1: Arrive and explore Reykjavik with this 2.5 hour local-guided walking tour, taking you to key spots like Rainbow Street, Hallgrímskirkja Church and Harpa.
Day 2: This Golden Circle Tour is a classic for a reason, taking you to Thingvellir National Park, Iceland’s most active geyser – Strokkur, the majestic Gullfoss Falls, and Kerid Crater. Plus, you’ll end this perfect day at the Blue Lagoon, another Iceland must-see!
Day 3: Join this day tour to the incredible Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon (around 5 hours from Reykjavik!) Yes, it’s a long day, but this was one of the highlights of my 5-day itinerary in Iceland, so I couldn’t recommend it more! You’ll of course see the incredible glacier lagoon (and maybe some seals lounging on the icebergs, if you’re lucky!), as well as the famous Diamond Beach and the incredible Seljalandsfoss Falls lit up at night.
Day 4: Join this small group tour to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula (often called “Iceland in miniature”!) You’ll get to see the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain with its picturesque twin waterfalls, witness Iceland’s wild Arnarstapi coastline, and marvel at the rugged lava formations on Djúpalónssandur beach!
Day 5: For your final day in Iceland, join this South Coast Day Trip to see some of Iceland’s best beaches, viewpoints and waterfalls. From the powerful Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss Falls to the iconic Reynisfjara black sand beach, this tour is classic Iceland in one day!
Katie’s Top Tip: I totally get that this itinerary may be a little full-on for travellers who love a slower pace! So if you don’t want to pack your itinerary with back-to-back sightseeing, head to Sky Lagoon, spend some more time exploring Reykjavik, or join a whale watching boat trip for a more relaxed pace.
One Week in Iceland in Winter
With a full week, Iceland opens up in a whole new way!
You’ll have enough time to properly explore the Golden Circle and South Coast, chase the Northern Lights, explore the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and relax around Reykjavik.
It’s a dream itinerary for solo travellers who love adventure but also want to take the sightseeing pace a little slower!
You can either road trip this itinerary for a week if you’re confident driving in extreme winter conditions, or join small group tours from Reykjavik if you don’t want to drive. (This is what I did!)
7 Days in Iceland Itinerary (From Reykjavik):
Day 1: Arrive and explore Reykjavik with this 2.5 hour local-guided walking tour, taking you to key spots like Rainbow Street, Hallgrímskirkja Church and Harpa.
Day 2: This Golden Circle Tour is a classic for a reason, taking you to Thingvellir National Park, Iceland’s most active geyser – Strokkur, the majestic Gullfoss Falls, and Kerid Crater. Plus, you’ll end this perfect day at the Blue Lagoon, another Iceland must-see!
Day 3: Join this day tour to the incredible Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon (around 5 hours from Reykjavik!) Yes, it’s a long day, but this was one of the highlights of my 5-day itinerary in Iceland, so I couldn’t recommend it more! You’ll of course see the incredible glacier lagoon (and maybe some seals lounging on the icebergs, if you’re lucky!), as well as the famous Diamond Beach and the incredible Seljalandsfoss Falls lit up at night.
Day 4: After a long day yesterday, treat yourself to a slow morning in Reykjavik (maybe with brunch at Sandholt Bakery!) Then, in the afternoon, head to the incredible Sky Lagoon for a relaxing soak in steamy geo-thermal waters, overlooking the ocean!
Day 5: Join this small group tour to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula (often called “Iceland in miniature”!) You’ll get to see the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain with its picturesque twin waterfalls, witness Iceland’s wild Arnarstapi coastline, and marvel at the rugged lava formations on Djúpalónssandur beach!
Day 6: Join this South Coast Day Trip to see some of Iceland’s best beaches, viewpoints and waterfalls. From the powerful Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss Falls to the iconic Reynisfjara black sand beach, this tour is classic Iceland in one day!
Day 7: For your final day in Reykjavik, take to the water with a classic winter whale watching tour! Not only do you get to enjoy the beautiful scenery surrounding Iceland’s capital from the water, but you also have the chance to spot minke whales or even humpback whales during your 3-hour cruise!
Katie’s Top Tip: If you don’t want to commit to multiple day trips between Reykjavik and the South Coast, join this 3-day Golden Circle and South Coast Iceland tour instead, for half of your week in Iceland. It takes you to all of the highlights of days 2, 3 and 6 (Seljalandsfoss, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, Thingvellir National Park…), without you having to join separate day trips!
10 Days in Iceland in Winter
10 days in Iceland in winter is the dream!
It’s long enough to slow down and really see the country beyond the highlights reel that shorter trips will show you.
With this much time, you can circle the famous Ring Road if you wish to self-drive (or join a dedicated, small group Iceland Ring Road tour if you want to travel this iconic route with a local and let the experts take care of logistics for you!)
Or you can take it slower and base yourself in just one place (stay in central Reykjavik), and then take small group tours throughout your stay, like with the rest of these itineraries.
Quick Note: I’d only recommend driving yourself if you’re a confident winter driver, as the icy roads and unpredictable weather are no joke!
Small group tours, whether single-day from Reykjavik or multi-day to explore more of the South Coast and Golden Circle in one go, are a great way to see everything stress-free!
This longer trip lets you experience the very best of Iceland. Plus, you’ll also have a better chance of seeing the Northern Lights, as the more nights you’re here, the better your odds!
10 Days in Iceland Itinerary From Reykjavik:
Day 1: Arrive and explore Reykjavik with this 2.5 hour local-guided walking tour, taking you to key spots like Rainbow Street, Hallgrímskirkja Church and Harpa.
Day 2: This Golden Circle Tour is a classic for a reason, taking you to Thingvellir National Park, Iceland’s most active geyser – Strokkur, the majestic Gullfoss Falls, and Kerid Crater. Plus, you’ll end this perfect day at the Blue Lagoon, another Iceland must-see!
Day 3: Grab your hiking boots for an unforgettable guided Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike with a geologist! It takes you to Iceland’s newest lava fields, where you’ll learn how Iceland is still being shaped beneath your feet. Then hike to the amazing crater viewpoint, with panoramic views across the lava fields!
Day 4: Join this day tour to the incredible Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon (around 5 hours from Reykjavik!) Yes, it’s a long day, but this was one of the highlights of my 5-day itinerary in Iceland, so I couldn’t recommend it more! You’ll of course see the incredible glacier lagoon (and maybe some seals lounging on the icebergs, if you’re lucky!), as well as the famous Diamond Beach and the incredible Seljalandsfoss Falls lit up at night.
Day 5: After a long day yesterday, treat yourself to a slow morning in Reykjavik (maybe with brunch at Sandholt Bakery!) Then, in the afternoon, head to the incredible Sky Lagoon for a relaxing soak in steamy geo-thermal waters, overlooking the ocean!
Day 6: Join this small group tour to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula (often called “Iceland in miniature”!) You’ll get to see the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain with its picturesque twin waterfalls, witness Iceland’s wild Arnarstapi coastline, and marvel at the rugged lava formations on Djúpalónssandur beach!
Day 7: Take a break from chasing waterfalls and try something a little different, with either a thrilling Buggy Safari Tour or a Viking Horseback Ride! Both are incredible ways to experience Iceland’s wild landscapes from a new perspective!
Day 8: By now, you’ve definitely earned another slower morning! Spend the day wandering through Reykjavik at your own pace, maybe visiting the National Museum of Iceland or Perlan. Then, in the afternoon, head to Laugar Spa to try an authentic Icelandic treatment, like a geothermal seaweed bath!
Day 9: Join this South Coast Day Trip to see some of Iceland’s best beaches, viewpoints and waterfalls. From the powerful Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss Falls to the iconic Reynisfjara black sand beach, this tour is classic Iceland in one day!
Day 10: For your final day in Reykjavik, take to the water with a classic winter whale watching tour! Not only do you get to enjoy the beautiful scenery surrounding Iceland’s capital from the water, but you also have the chance to spot minke whales or even humpback whales during your 3-hour cruise!
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re self-driving, always check SafeTravel.is and the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration before heading out. Conditions can change fast, even within the same hour, so knowing before you go will save you a whole load of stress and make sure you stay safe in Iceland!
What to Expect in Winter: Weather, Light & Logistics
Iceland in winter is incredibly beautiful, but it’s also unpredictable, moody and wild!
From November to March, you can expect rain, snow, wind and ice, but also a magical blue light that makes everything look picturesque!
Planning around the weather is key to enjoying Iceland in winter, especially for solo travellers.
Roads close suddenly (or become dangerous) due to storms or black ice, and some parts of the country may be totally inaccessible.
But the winter months offer experiences you can’t get in summer, like exploring ice caves, hiking on glaciers, or seeing frozen waterfalls!
Just remember to manage the expectations for your itinerary, dress in layers, and plan for flexibility.
Katie’s Top Tip: Never rely on summer in Iceland itineraries if you’re travelling in winter, as a lot of the information won’t be relevant. Instead, search for specific winter itineraries, like this one for 5 days in Iceland in winter.
Iceland Average Temperature by Month
Winter in Iceland sounds extreme, but it’s milder than you would expect, thanks to the Gulf Stream.
The Iceland average temperature by month typically ranges from around -1°C to 4°C (30-39°F), although the windchill often makes it feel much colder.
Here’s what you can expect:
- November: 0 to 4°C – cool, moody, increasing snow.
- December: -1 to 3°C – the darkest month, but magical for Christmas & Northern Lights.
- January: -1 to 2°C – coldest and snowiest month, great for ice caves and glacier hikes.
- February: 0 to 3°C – more crisp rather than freezing, with beautiful icy landscapes.
- March: 0 to 4°C – slightly longer days, still wintery but with hints of spring emerging.
Iceland Average Snowfall by Month
Snow is what transforms Iceland into that winter wonderland you see on postcards, but it also makes travel trickier.
Snowfall in Iceland by month varies depending on location, with Reykjavik getting less snow than the north, but it can still fall anytime (usually from November to April).
Here’s a quick overview:
- November: Light snowfall begins, mostly at higher elevations.
- December: Steady snowfall, with landscapes turning a beautiful white.
- January: Peak snow, so expect thick layers across most of the country.
- February: Consistent snow and ice, especially inland.
- March: Snow starts melting in the south but stays elsewhere.
Katie’s Top Tip: Always factor in how snow affects travel time. What looks like a 2-hour drive can easily turn into 4 hours on icy roads. This is where small-group tours from Reykjavik come in, because they handle all the logistics so you can just relax and enjoy the day!
Iceland Daylight Hours by Month
Iceland’s daylight hours shrink dramatically in winter.
For example, in mid-December, the sun might rise at 11:30am and set by 3:30pm.
But while that sounds limiting, it’s actually part of what makes Iceland in winter so unique, as that golden-blue twilight glow lasts for hours!
Here’s a rough guide to daylight hours in winter:
- November: 6–7 hours of daylight.
- December: 4–5 hours (the shortest).
- January: 5–6 hours.
- February: 7–8 hours.
- March: 10–12 hours, with days lengthening fast.
Practical Advice for Visiting Iceland in Winter
Visiting Iceland in winter is 100% doable solo and, honestly, it’s my favourite time to go!
But it does come with extra considerations.
I’ve written a full guide with all of my very best Iceland in winter travel tips, but the main thing to remember is that planning and flexibility are your best friends here!
Here are my 6 top tips for visiting Iceland in winter:
- Layer up properly with thermals, cosy knitwear, and good-quality waterproof and windproof outerwear.
- Book accommodation and tours far in advance (especially accommodation in Reykjavik city centre, entrance to the Blue Lagoon, and small group Northern Lights tours).
- Always check road and weather conditions before travelling.
- Give yourself permission to slow down or change plans if (or more likely, when) the weather turns.
- If you’re renting a car in Iceland, make sure it’s a 4×4 with studded winter tyres, and also make sure you have good insurance.
- And if you’re nervous about tackling Iceland’s winter roads, just don’t. Instead, join small group tours throughout your trip (this is what I did, and it made such a difference!)
Is Iceland Worth Visiting in Winter?
Absolutely! In my opinion, winter is the most magical time of year to visit Iceland!
Yes, it’s darker, colder and wilder, but it’s also quieter, more affordable, and so atmospheric.
If you’re on the fence, I’ve written a full blog post about whether Iceland is worth visiting in winter – but in short, it’s breathtakingly beautiful, unique, and also peaceful!
So don’t be put off by the cold or darkness (they’re part of the experience!)
Instead, pack smart, plan ahead, and remain flexible, and you’ll have the best time in Iceland in winter!
Final Thoughts: How Many Days Do You Really Need in Iceland in Winter?
There’s no single answer to how many days do you need in Iceland in winter, because it all comes down to the kind of experience you want.
Whether you’ve got a long weekend or a full ten days to explore, experiencing the prettiest places in Iceland in winter will make every moment count!
The secret is to embrace the season rather than try (and fail!) to fight it.
Yes, shorter daylight hours, icy roads, and unpredictable weather sound limiting, but they actually slow everything down in the best way – if you only let go of expectation and embrace the wild beauty of the season!
Just plan smart, give yourself space between the big adventures, don’t be afraid of flexibility, and pack for every kind of weather – because I promise Iceland will throw it all at you (often in just one day!)
If you’re not sure where to start, my exact 5 days in Iceland solo travel itinerary is the perfect option! It gives you a taste of everything (waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, black sand beaches…) without feeling rushed!
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
