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Iceland is a magical destination – there is a reason that so many people visit this beautiful country multiple times and even move here. But due to the location and temperature, first-time visitors need special tips. Here are the 12 things to know before visiting Iceland in winter for the first time:
12 Things to Know Before Visiting Iceland in Winter
1. Airplanes park on the jetway
Upon arriving at Reykjavik’s Keflavik airport, most planes deplane on the jetway. Passengers exit through the front and rear doors before embarking on buses that will take them to the terminal. Put on your coat and other warm clothing before deplaning.
2. You don’t need cash
Just about everyone accepts credit cards. Travelers do not need to exchange currency (though if you do, use the ATM and not the foreign exchange for the best rates). Our free walking tour provided a way to tip using a credit card. You’ll only need cash for tips for tour guides, though tipping is not expected here.
3. Dress in layers
The best way to dress for the weather is to wear layers. Generally speaking, you’ll dress in three layers – a base underlayer consisting of light wool or fleece, a middle layer such as a sweater or fleece sweatshirt for the top, and jeans or other pants for the bottom. If you plan on spending most of the day outdoors, trade jeans for waterproof pants that help keep you dry and stop the wind. Your third layer is outerwear, including a waterproof winter jacket, hats, gloves, etc.
4. The bus system to and from the airport
Many companies offer transportation to and from the airport into downtown Reykjavik. You’ll find the companies’ kiosks right after baggage claim. Reserve your ride ahead of time, especially if you opt for a drop-off at the Blue Lagoon. Almost all tour companies transport passengers to the main bus terminal, where you’ll switch to minivans to drop you off at designated locations around town. You may need to wait for your transport outside, so dress accordingly.
5. The Northern Lights are not guaranteed
While visitors have a better chance of seeing the Northern Lights between mid-August to mid-April, there is no guarantee that you will see them. Many factors contribute to the visibility of the Northern Lights, including overcast skies. Use an experienced tour company to optimize your chances but don’t decide that your trip is a failure if you don’t see them.
6. Everyone speaks English
Don’t speak Icelandic? Don’t fret – everyone in Iceland speaks English. English is taught as a second language in schools. With the advent of international movies and communication, just about everyone you meet can converse with you in English and many other European languages.
7. Few daylight hours
Visiting Iceland in winter means limited daylight hours. Sunrise to sunset can be as short as just over four hours at the end of December/beginning of January. By February, there are almost seven hours of daylight in Reykjavik. The limited daylight hours mean that many of your activities will take place in at least partial darkness, so optimize your tour times.
8. Prioritize what you want to see and do
Because of the limited daylight hours and so much to see and do in Iceland, you’ll want to create a list of the things you most want to see and do. Consider what activities do not require daylight (museums, lagoons) and which need daylight (snorkeling, snowmobiling). Create your itinerary around those events, or consult my 4-day itinerary for Iceland in winter.
9. Frozen ponds, rivers, and lakes
The lower temperatures create the perfect freezing environment for ponds, rivers, and lakes. Do not walk on surfaces that appear to be frozen unless you know that they are frozen solid and see others walking along. An excellent place to try this (because it is shallow) is the Tjörnin pond outside City Hall.
10. Pick your hotel wisely
Where do you plan to spend your time? Hotels along the famous Laugavegur street are close to many important Reykjavik sites and eateries. Consider whether there is a bus stop right outside your hotel so you don’t have to wait outside for your ride. If your days are full of tours, a hotel with a geothermal spa will help soothe your tired muscles. I stayed at Midgardur Center Hotels and it was perfect.
11. Be on time for pick-ups
Tour companies have strict schedules to maintain. Every stop has a designated pick-up time (check with your tour company for yours), but you’ll even want to be there early, especially if you’re towards the beginning of the circuit. Your name will be on the list maintained by the driver, ensuring you don’t get on the wrong bus. But if you’re not waiting, the tour will not delay the others from being on time and will leave. Don’t be that guy.
12. Tax refunds
If you purchase items that will leave Iceland with you (souvenirs, clothing, for example), you can receive a portion of the VAT reimbursement. For each purchase over ISK 6000, the store clerk should provide you with a form you will need to complete. You’ll need to produce your receipts and turn them in at the tax refund desk at the airport. They may ask to see the items, so I recommend going to this desk before checking into your flight. Opt to receive your refund as a refund to your credit card, or you can donate your refund to help those in need.
Final Thoughts on Things to Know Before Visiting Iceland in Winter
Enjoy your marvelous trip to Iceland in winter. These tips should make your first-time visit to Iceland trouble-free.
Do you have any tips you recommend? Share with us in the comments below!
Happy travels,
Annick, The Common Traveler
Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.