A Guide to Driving in Iceland in December

Iceland in December is winter at its most magical: snow-dusted mountains, steaming hot springs, and long starry nights perfect for chasing the Northern Lights. The roads can be icy and the days are short, but with a bit of planning and the right car, you can explore safely and comfortably.

This guide walks you through everything you need for a smooth winter road trip: what the weather really feels like, how much daylight to expect, where road conditions are most reliable, and which car to choose for peace of mind. You’ll also find practical tips on what to pack and the best things to do, from ice caves to cosy geothermal pools.

Let’s get started.   

What Is the Weather Like in Iceland in December?

December in Iceland is a month of dramatic contrasts: brisk winds, shimmering snow, and those brief but golden hours of sunlight that make the scenery look straight out of a fairytale. It’s undeniably winter, yet the cold isn’t as fierce as many travellers imagine.

You’ll encounter a mix of snow, sleet, and rain, especially in the southern part of the country and around Reykjavík, while the north and Westfjords tend to stay blanketed in snow for much of the month. Coastal areas usually experience wetter conditions than inland regions, with an average of around 15 days of precipitation, whether that’s rain, snow, or something in between.

The result is a constantly changing landscape, where one moment you’re driving through sparkling snowfields and the next you’re surrounded by misty rain and moody skies. It’s part of what makes winter in Iceland so captivating, and a little unpredictable.

The wind, though, is the real wildcard. Strong gusts are common and can reach up to 20–25 m/s (45–55 mph), particularly in exposed coastal or mountain areas. Before setting out, always check the latest updates on vedur.is, the go-to weather site for locals, to stay informed about changing conditions.

What Is the Average Temperature in December in Iceland?

December in Iceland may be cold, but it’s usually not as freezing as people expect from a country with “ice” in its name. Thanks to the influence of the Gulf Stream, Iceland’s winters are surprisingly mild for a northern destination.

Across the country, temperatures typically range between -2°C and 4°C (28°F–39°F), though it can feel colder when the wind picks up. In Reykjavík and along the South Coast, the mercury often stays just above freezing, while the northern regions, such as Akureyri or the Westfjords, can dip several degrees lower.

Frost and ice are common overnight, and snow tends to linger in the countryside throughout the month. Still, it’s rare for temperatures to drop dramatically unless you head into higher elevations or catch a particularly strong cold front.

How Many Daylight Hours Are There in Iceland in December?

Daylight in December is short, but it’s part of what makes Iceland so enchanting at this time of year. Around the winter solstice on December 21st, you can expect roughly four to five hours of daylight each day. In Reykjavík, the sun rises around 11:00 a.m. and sets just after 3:30 p.m., while northern regions see slightly shorter days.

Although that might sound limiting, those few hours are absolutely magical. The sun stays low in the sky all day, wrapping the landscape in soft pink and golden tones that make every glacier, mountain, and waterfall look like a painting. Locals often joke that in December, you get sunrise lighting all day long, perfect for photographers.

The long nights also mean prime conditions for spotting the Northern Lights, as the dark skies stretch for nearly 20 hours a day. Many travellers plan their days around this rhythm: exploring during the short daylight window, then relaxing or aurora-hunting after dusk.

Should You Rent a Car in Iceland in December? 

Yes! The top reason, though, is freedom. Renting a car allows you to go where you want, when you want, without being forced to follow the itinerary of a tour provider, or hiring an expensive service to ferry you around. Don’t even think that you’ll rely on public transportation; there’s not a whole lot of that in Iceland. 

Want to get up in the middle of the night and go northern lights chasing? You can do it with a rental car. Want to go glacier hiking or ice caving exploring? You can easily meet your tour guide in nearly any part of the country, with a rental car. 

Beyond the freedom, though, renting a car and self-driving around Iceland also allows you to more fully explore the country. You get to take in the scenery, and stop at areas that catch your interest, and all without being rushed. 

Tips: Book early for the best deals

While rental cars are typically pretty available toward the beginning of December, they become less so, the closer we get to the holidays. For your top choice in vehicle, and the best prices, book your rental car as soon as you know you’re travelling to Iceland. 

What Are the Road Conditions Like in Iceland in December?

Driving in Iceland in December can be breathtaking: snowy peaks, frosted lava fields, and roads that seem to lead straight into the Arctic sky. But it’s also a time when nature sets the pace, and you need to be ready for real winter conditions.

Unlike in many other countries, Icelandic roads aren’t cleared down to the asphalt during winter. Instead, snowploughs and graders work to flatten and compact the snow, creating a smooth but icy surface. This means you should expect to drive on snow and ice throughout most of December, especially outside of Reykjavík and the main highways. It’s part of the Icelandic winter driving experience.

The good news? Iceland’s main roads, such as those around Reykjavík, the South Coast, and the Golden Circle, are regularly maintained and monitored. These areas are the safest and most reliable for winter road trips, even when conditions are snowy. 

Further north and east, road conditions become more challenging. The Eastfjords and North Iceland often face heavy snowfall, drifting snow, and strong winds, which can make driving slow and occasionally hazardous. These routes are best for experienced winter drivers who are comfortable controlling a vehicle on icy surfaces.

The Westfjords, though incredibly beautiful, are generally not recommended in December. Many mountain passes close due to snow accumulation and risk of avalanches, and conditions can shift within minutes. The Highlands, Iceland’s rugged interior, are completely closed for the winter, as the F-roads are buried under deep snow.

What Is the Best Car for Iceland in December?

In winter, you can expect to drive on snow and ice across much of Iceland, so having the right tires and vehicle is essential for a safe and comfortable trip.

The most important thing is to make sure your car has high-quality winter tires that can grip icy surfaces. At Lava Car Rental, every vehicle in our fleet comes with studded winter tires during the winter season, included as standard. These tires are designed to dig into ice and compacted snow, providing excellent traction and stability, exactly what you need for Iceland’s winter roads.

To make driving even easier, we strongly recommend choosing a 4x4 SUV. A four-wheel-drive vehicle offers better traction, more power, and higher ground clearance. All these features are essential when roads are covered in snow or when the weather suddenly changes. With a sturdy 4x4, you’ll feel much more confident exploring Iceland’s diverse winter landscapes, from Reykjavík and the South Coast to the far north of the country.

Why Choose a 4x4 in Iceland in December? 

• Better grip on icy and snowy roads: Four-wheel drive distributes power evenly to all tires, helping you stay stable even when conditions are slippery.
• Higher ground clearance: Allows you to drive safely through snowdrifts or slushy sections.
• Improved handling in wind and rain: The extra weight and balance of a 4x4 help maintain control during Iceland’s strong winter winds.

What to Do in Iceland in December? 

Take a Road Trip 

The southern portion of Iceland is the safest, with the clearest roadways, during the winter months. However, just because you want to stick to a single region of Iceland, that doesn’t mean you can’t still plan a fun road trip. You can easily spend a week or 10 days driving around just the South of Iceland. 

Chase the Northern Lights

December is the best time to come to Iceland to experience the northern lights. While it is possible to book a northern lights tour, if you want to go it alone, you can easily chase the northern lights by yourself — here’s how. 

Visit an Ice Cave

Ice caving is one of Iceland’s most popular winter activities. Explore the vivid blue ice caves of Vatnajokull, but be sure to go with a certified guide to ensure your safety.

One of the best places in the country to go ice caving? Vatnajokull glacier, which is situated in South Iceland — making it a perfect stop on a South Iceland road trip!

Take a Dip in a Geothermal Pool

Swimming isn’t just for summer, at least not when you’re in Iceland. Check out one of the country’s many geothermal pools while you’re here. From spa-like pools that are developed and built up, to rural pools that require a little hiking before your dip, you can find an experience that suits your travel style.

What Is Happening in Iceland in December? 

Advent

Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Eve, marking the day when Icelanders start lighting their Christmas trees. If you're visiting on this day, don’t miss the lighting of the Oslo Christmas Tree at Austurvöllur in Reykjavik.

During Advent, from December 12th to December 24th, the Yule Lads make their appearances at celebrations around the country. These mischievous trolls, Iceland's version of Santa Claus, have unique personalities, from stealing milk to licking bowls. Look out for them at the National Museum of Iceland every day during this period.

The Winter Solstice in Iceland

December 21 marks the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year. Iceland celebrates with the lighting of the Imagine Peace Tower on Videy Island, visible from Reykjavik.

Christmas in Iceland 

The holiday season is big in Iceland, with plenty of traditional and modern events. Expect Christmas markets, festive foods, and Yuletide celebrations throughout the month. For more information, read our full guide to Christmas in Iceland. 

New Year’s Eve and New Year in Iceland 

Iceland celebrates the ringing in of the New Year with a huge fireworks display. If you’re staying around Reykjavik, you’ll have multiple options for fireworks watching, though some of the most popular sites to take in the display include at Hallgrimskirkja Church and Perlman. 

For more on information, check out our guide to Iceland New Year traditions and festivities. 

What to Pack for a Trip to Iceland in December? 

Here’s what to pack, for the best, most comfortable, cosiest trip possible.

• Warm layers of clothing, such as sweaters and thermals
• A waterproof coat
• Waterproof hiking boots with lots of traction
• Hats, gloves and scarves to protect your extremities 
• Thermal underwear or another winter-specific base layer
• Waterproof pants, particularly if you plan on doing any hiking or outdoor sightseeing
• A swimsuit (for visiting the geothermal pools!)
• A travel adapter, just in case you don’t typically use Type C or F outlets in your home country
• A camera with extra batteries and extra memory cards
• A daypack for carrying all of your gear (as well as any layers of clothing you may need to remove or put back on) when you're not using your suitcase
• A reusable water bottle for staying hydrated; Iceland’s tap water is totally safe to drink and is some of the highest-quality, best tap water in the world

For further insight as to what to pack, be sure to check Iceland's weather forecast a few days before your trip. Do keep in mind that even if you check the forecast a few days out, it can still change; it’s important to be prepared for anything!.

Is December a Good Time to Visit Iceland?

Winter in Iceland holds a special kind of magic, making it an ideal time for some travelers. Here’s why.

December Is a Great Time to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

One of the biggest draws for visiting Iceland in December? The northern lights. With long, dark nights, December offers prime conditions for northern lights viewing. Iceland’s short daylight hours, from about 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., give you ample opportunity to chase the lights without losing sleep.

To make the most of your northern lights hunt, consider driving away from the cities to darker rural areas. Always check resources like the Icelandic Meteorological Office or Aurora Forecast for the latest updates on solar activity and clear skies.

Need more info? Check out our full guide to northern lights hunting in Iceland.

Enjoy Beautiful Sunrises and Sunsets in Iceland in December

December offers a unique opportunity to witness some of the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets. In contrast to the near-constant daylight in the summer, December’s short days provide stunning lighting conditions, with glaciers reflecting the vibrant colors. Since the sun rises late and sets early, you can easily catch these moments without waking up too early or staying out too late.

Iceland Knows How to Do the Holidays

What better place to spend Christmas than in the magical wintery wonderland that is Iceland? You're (almost) guaranteed a white Christmas here — which is probably why December is such a popular month for Iceland tourism. Thanks to all the festivities and fun, you’ll never run out of things to do when you visit around Christmas and New Year’s. 

Iceland is Less Busy in December Than the Rest of the Year

Fewer tourists visit Iceland in December, which is a huge perk. Popular attractions like the Blue Lagoon, Skógafoss Falls, and Seljalandsfoss Falls will be nearly empty, allowing you to enjoy them without huge crowds.

More Affordable Flights and Accommodation in December in Iceland 

Flying to Iceland in December is relatively inexpensive. Although December is a time when many families have holidays from work and school, Iceland is not a typical family destination in the winter. Lower demand means lower prices for flights, accommodation, and tours for the first part of the month. You’ll also have more flexibility regarding where to stay, and you won’t have to worry about tours being fully booked. Make sure to use flight and hotel comparison sites to find the best deals.

Is it Worth Visiting Iceland in December? 

Absolutely! Whether you’re chasing the northern lights, experiencing Icelandic holiday traditions, or simply enjoying the beauty of winter landscapes, a December road trip through Iceland is an unforgettable experience.

Let the local team at Lava Car Rental help you find the perfect rental car for your adventure. Browse our selection of vehicles and book early to secure the best deals!

Rent your Car in Iceland Now