Iceland in January: Weather, Northern Lights, Things To Do & More

Iceland in January is an adventurous time – you can tour the ice caves, chase the Northern lights, visit Blue Lagoon, or enjoy a glacier hiking tour that feels out of this world.

Iceland’s natural beauty is unparalleled and unlike any other country. Here’s your guide if you plan to visit the Land of Fire and Ice during winter!

Is January a good time to visit Iceland?

January is a good time to visit Iceland if you enjoy Icelandic horse riding, glacier hikes, and northern lights or want to join in to celebrate the festival of Thorrablot without bumping shoulders with a huge crowd. Temperatures in January range from between -5 and -1°C.

Pros	Cons
Fewer tourists Northern Lights Bonfires & fireworks in Reykjavik Winter landscapes & blankets of snow Winter photography Winter activities like horseriding, dog sledding, tours of ice caves Geothermal baths and spas	Limited daylight hours Coldest month Road closures Unpredictable weather Expensive

Weather in January in Iceland

Here’s an Iceland weather guide for January:

Temperatures	January is the coldest and darkest month.   Reykjavik: (-5 to 5 °C) Akureyri: (-10 to 0 °C) Egilsstadir: (-15 to -5°C) Hofn: (-5 to 5°C) Isafjordur: (-10 to 0°C)
Precipitation	There is a chance of heavy rainfall in Iceland in January.   Reykjavik: 76mm Akureyri: 48mm Egilsstadir: 40mm Hofn: 100mm Isafjordur: 80mm
Average Sunshine	Daylight hours are limited.   Reykjavik: 4-6 hours Akureyri: 4-5 hours Egilsstadir: 4-5 hours Hofn: 4-6 hours Isafjordur: 4-5 hours

Events & Festivals in Iceland During Winter

Here are some festivals and celebrations in Iceland during January that you must explore:

New Year’s Eve – Bonfires & Fireworks

New Year’s Eve in Iceland is a magical experience. The day is also marked by bonfires, symbolizing the burning away of the old year’s troubles and welcoming new beginnings.

There are many bonfires across the nation on New Year’s Eve, you can go to:

• At Ægisíða, a small bonfire at 8:30 pm.
• Geirsnef, on the north side of Geirsnef, hosts a large bonfire at 8:30 pm.
• At Jafnasel, a small bonfire at 8:30 pm.
• In Skerjafjörður opposite Skildinganes 48-52, a small bonfire is lit at 9 pm.

The dark sky is lit with fireworks, and you can visit various bars and clubs to dance and sing. You can even take a special New Year’s Fireworks Cruise in Iceland. If you want to watch fireworks on land, here are some recommendations:

• Hallgrimskirkja Church
• Perlan
• Oskjuhlid Hill
• Lake Tjornin

Icelandic Winter Feast – Thorrablot

The Icelandic Winter Feast, Þorrablót, is a unique cultural event in January. The feast features a variety of traditional Icelandic foods, some of which may seem unusual to outsiders. These include fermented shark, sheep’s head, and various types of cured fish.

The Þorrablót is a lively occasion filled with music, dancing, and storytelling. It is a celebration of Icelandic traditions and a time to reconnect with the country’s heritage. You can visit these restaurants to try the Þorrablót menus:

• Café Loki
• Restaurant Reykjavík
• Íslenski Barinn – The Icelandic Bar
• Three coats
• Hressó Bistro

Best Things to Do in Iceland

Here’s a list of the best activities in Iceland for January to make your trip memorable:

Hunt for Northern Lights

January is the best time to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights in Iceland. The long, dark nights and clear skies increase your chances of spotting this natural wonder. You can book tours or stay at hotels where you can spot the magical lights from your room!

Best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland in January:

Hotels & Accommodation	Hotel Rangá on the South Coast Hotel Magma in Kirkjubæjarklaustur Stracta Hotel in Hella Loa’s Nest  in Hella Aurora Igloo Iceland in Hella Blue Lagoon	Room costs range from $200 – $1,000
Northern Light tours	Arctic Adventures Get Your Guide Reykjavík Excursions	Starting at $60
Best Locations	Thingvellir National Park in Southwest Iceland The Asbyrgi Canyon in North Iceland The Kirkjufell Mountain on the Snaefellsnes peninsula Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Explore Ice Caves

Visiting ice caves in Iceland during January is the right time. The ice is stable enough that you can explore with guided assistance. These unique formations are sculpted by glacial meltwater. The best blue formations and glacier ice caves that you can see are:

• Langjokull Glacier Ice Tunnel in West Iceland
• Katla Ice Cave in South Iceland
• Eastern and Western Ice Cave in Vatnajokull Glacier
• Skaftafell Ice Cave in Vatnajokull National Park

You can see popular tour guides by Arctic Adventures, Icelandic Mountain Guides or Troll Expedition to book your tours. The costs starts at $150.

Museums and Art Galleries

Iceland’s vibrant art scene is as beautiful as its natural language. Reykjavík, the capital city, boasts a variety of museums and art galleries showcasing Icelandic and international art. The best museums and art galleries to visit are:

• The Einar Jónsson Sculpture Museum
• Gerðarsafn Art Museum
• Hafnarborg – the Hafnarfjörður Centre of Culture and Fine Art
• National Gallery of Iceland
• National Museum of Iceland
• Aurora Reykjavik

Blue Lagoon

Your Icelandic trip is incomplete without a geothermal soak at the world-famous spa Blue Lagoon. The milky-blue waters, rich in minerals, offer a soothing escape from the winter cold. The lagoon’s unique setting amidst a lava field adds to the surreal experience. There are 2 hotels and multiple restaurants in the same structure.

• Address: Norðurljósavegur 9, 240 Grindavík, Iceland
• Timings: Open daily, 08:00-22:00
• Costs: Starting at $100
• Bookings: bluelagoon.in

Icelandic Coffee Culture

Go cafe hopping and savor the local coffee culture in Reykjavík. Many cafes offer delicious pastries and light bites alongside their coffee. You can join a tour or discover hidden gems on your own.

• If you are fond of cats and coffee, drop by Kattakaffihúsið – a cat coffee cafe!
• Café Babalú is a quirky bright yellow cafe that is a cultural Icelandic highlight.
• The Phallic Café & Bistro is a delightfully strange cafe with phallic puns to their food and drinks.
• Café Loki is the best cafe to try traditional and local cuisine and coffee.
• Mokka Kaffi is oldest cafe in Iceland to try a hot cup of coffee in the wintry season.

Dark Music Days Festival

The annual Dark Music Days Festival takes place in January. It is one of the oldest festivals in Iceland. This festival showcases experimental and contemporary music, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

• Dates: 24 – 26th January, 2025 (It is scheduled to take place from 29 – 31st January, in 2026)
• Address: Harpa Concert Hall, Reykjavík
• Ticket prices from $750
• Buy tickets here

Snowmobiling

If you are an adventure junkie, you have to try snowmobiling across Iceland’s snow-covered landscapes. Explore glaciers, volcanoes, and remote areas, enjoying breathtaking views and the thrill of speed.

You can see popular tour guides by Arctic Adventures, Get Your Guide or Mountaineers of Iceland to book your tours. The costs starts at $250.

Dog Sledding

Dog sledding through Iceland’s winter wonderland is a must. The adorable huskies will pull across snow-covered plains and frozen lakes. It’s easy and the roughly 2 hours long. The costs start at $500. Here are some places to book from:

• Snow Dogs
• Dog Sledding Iceland

Hot Springs

Warm up in one of Iceland’s many natural hot springs. Relax and rejuvenate in the soothing geothermal waters, enjoying stunning views of the surrounding landscape. These are some of the best hot springs and geothermal spas:

• Forest Lagoon, Akureyri: Entry costs start at $42
• Sky Lagoon, Reykjavik: Entry costs start at $50
• Myvatn Nature Baths: Entry costs start at $52
• Voks Baths, Egilsstadir: Entry costs start at $42

Skating on Lake Tjornin

Enjoy a quintessential Icelandic winter experience by skating on the natural ice rink at Lake Tjornin in Reykjavík. This picturesque lake transforms into a bustling ice rink in winter, offering a fun and social activity for locals and visitors alike. This is completely free but you will have to bring your own skates.

Glacier Tours

Take a glacier tour to explore the majestic ice formations of Iceland’s glaciers. Hike on the ice, marvel at ice caves, and learn about the fascinating geology of these natural wonders.

You can see popular tour guides by Arctic Adventures, Get Your Guide or Mountaineers of Iceland to book your tours. The costs starts at $250.

Relax in a Spa

Indulge in a relaxing spa treatment to soothe your muscles and rejuvenate your senses. Many spas offer a range of treatments, from massages and mud facials to saunas and steam rooms.

• The Blue Lagoon
• GeoSea
• Sky Lagoon
• Myvatn Nature Baths

Visit the Golden Circle

Explore the iconic Golden Circle route, even in winter. The circle covers majestic wonders of Iceland – Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and beautiful Thingvellir National Park. You join a guided tour and experience nature’s wonder at its peak.

Icelandic Churches

Iceland is home to some of the most alluring churches in the world. Its unique architecture is reminiscent of the natural landscape. You should start with:

• Hallgrímskirkja: Reykjavik’s iconic cathedral, towering over the city with its modern, ship-like design.
• Skálholt Cathedral: Historic site, once the center of Icelandic Christianity, with ruins of the original cathedral and a modern church.
• Budir Black Church: Striking black wooden church on the Snaefellsnes peninsula, contrasting dramatically with the surrounding landscape.
• Gráfarkirkja: Oldest turf church in Iceland, offering a glimpse into the country’s early religious history.
• Þingvellir Church: Simple, white church in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Þingvellir National Park, known for its historical significance.

Best Places to Visit in Iceland in January

Add these top tourist spots in Iceland for January:

Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park in January for a unique and awe-inspiring experience. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Iceland’s oldest national and most visited national parks.

• Tickets: $6
• Activities: Hiking, Walking tours, Horseriding, Diving
• Website: https://www.thingvellir.is/en/

Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss Waterfall frozen in winter in January. While the water may be partially frozen, the sheer volume and force of the cascading water over the two-tiered drop remain awe-inspiring. The icy mist creates a magical atmosphere, especially when the sun catches the spray, creating a rainbow.

• No entrance fees
• Website: https://gullfoss.is/

Reykjavik

The capital city of Iceland, Reykjavík, is mesmerizing in winter. It is the best time to start your journey in Iceland. You can explore the city’s colorful houses, cozy cafes, and unique shops while enjoying the festive atmosphere. Visit the Hallgrimskirkja church for panoramic city views and explore the vibrant nightlife.

Hallgrimskirkja

The Hallgrimskirkja church is known for its architecture and breathtaking panoramic views of Reykjavík and surrounding landscapes. The church’s unique architecture, inspired by the basalt columns of Iceland, is a striking landmark against the winter sky.

• No entrance fees
• Website: https://www.hallgrimskirkja.is/en

Jökulsárlón

Visit Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon in winter for iconic boat tours. The icy landscape, with floating icebergs of various shapes and sizes, creates a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere. Keep an eye out for seals basking on the ice floes and the colorful birds up in the sky.

Diamond Beach

The Diamond Beach is another iconic spot in Iceland. The icebergs from Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon wash ashore. You will find jet-black sand and sparkling glassy icebergs, making the place look surreal.

South Coast

Go on a winter adventure along Iceland’s South Coast. See the beautiful Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls frozen in winter. You will find the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara and marvel at the dramatic Dyrhólaey cliffs. Driving along the South Coast is tough in January, so book a guided tour for safety.

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FAQs

Is January a good time to visit Iceland?

Yes, Iceland in January is a marvelous place. The best time to visit Iceland is in January to catch the Northern Lights!

What are the best things to do in Iceland in January?

The best things to do in Iceland in January are seeing the Northern Lights, boating in Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, or horseriding and dog sledding.

Is Iceland cold in January?

Yes, Iceland is cold during January. The temperatures range between -5 and -1°C.

How hot is Iceland in January?

No, Iceland is not hot during January. It is freezing, and the temperature drops to sub-zero levels.

Can you swim in Iceland in January?

Yes, you can swim in geothermal spas and hot springs across Iceland, such as the Blue Lagoon, Mývatn Nature Baths, or the Secret Lagoon.

Is it sunny in Iceland in January?

The days in Iceland during January are shorter. Sunlight lasts for 5 hours on average.

What clothes to wear in Iceland in January?

You should pack warm and waterproof clothes for your trip to Iceland in January. Layer your clothes and cover up adequately.

Is Iceland expensive to visit?

Yes, Iceland is expensive, and the average cost of traveling per day is $300.

How safe is Iceland?

Yes, it is one of the safest countries to visit. Beware of petty theft and be mindful of your environment, as the weather in Iceland in January is unpredictable.