Planning a winter road trip in Iceland and looking for the perfect 5-day itinerary? Here is the travel guide you need to create a memorable holiday, including how to get around, what to pack and an epic route that ensures you see the best attractions and sights this island offers in winter. From the Golden Circle to Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and Jökulsárlón Lagoon, this guide is perfect whether you are a first-time visitor or have visited Iceland before.
After my road trip around Iceland in the spring of 2017, I could not stop thinking about this country and dreamed of seeing it in winter. That is why, one year, I decided to book my plane ticket to Reykjavik and explore this gorgeous island again with my partner Matt.
We visited Iceland in January for 6 days, and once again, it was magical. The island in winter is simply stunning, and I am always amazed by its natural wonders – geysers, waterfalls, glaciers or hot springs. These are the things that make it so unique and also make you aware of the raw beauty and power of our planet.
What I also love the most is the fact that I never get bored of it – even during this second visit, I discovered so many new things, and I cannot wait to go back to explore more.
Unlike the first time, we did not go all around the island but stayed in the south, where we drove from Reykjavik to Jökulsárlón. In this article, I give you all the tips and information you need to have an unforgettable winter experience in Iceland, from planning your road trip to the best stops along the way. Plus, do not forget to check out the sustainable tips at the end. Enjoy!
My Iceland winter experience: Duration 6 Days Dates visited Jan 27 - Feb 01 Season Winter
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Overview: Iceland 5-day winter itinerary
- Day 1 – Reykjavík
- Day 2 – The Golden Circle
- Day 3 – The South Coast
- Day 4 – Vatnajökull Glacier
- Day 5 – Back to Reykjavík
Looking for the best coat to keep you warm? Check out this article:
8 Best Ethical Coats for Iceland in Winter
Iceland winter road trip – Map
Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.
5 days in Iceland: detailed winter itinerary
Please note that this self-drive winter road trip itinerary in Iceland is only a guide with recommendations. You are welcome to spend more days in one area or add other stops on your journey. Iceland has so much to offer – you will not get bored!
Day 1 – Reykjavík
Your first day on your winter road trip begins in Reykjavík, the beautiful capital and largest city of Iceland, located on the coast. It is the ideal place to start your adventure and uncover Icelandic culture, as you will come across iconic landmarks such as the Hallgrimskirkja church, the Harpa Concert Hall or the Sun Voyager.
And even for one day, or if you are short on time, there are plenty of attractions and activities to experience in the capital, from admiring the architecture to tasting the local cuisine or discovering street art.
You guessed it – whether you are more into nature, art or nightlife, Reykjavík is a unique European city to visit in winter that has something for everyone!
READ MORE: Reykjavík City Guide: Perfect 3-Day Itinerary
Things to do & see in Reykjavík
- Admire the view from Hallgrímskirkja
- Visit the Harpa Concert Hall
- Stroll along the Old Harbour
- Marvel at the Sun Voyager sculpture
- Wander through the city centre
- Try the local Iceland cuisine
- Relax at the Sky Lagoon
- Go whale watching
- Discover the Imagine Peace Tower
- Chase the Northern Lights
READ MORE: 10 Eco-Friendly Things to Do in Reykjavík, Iceland
Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.
And, of course, it is impossible not to mention the Blue Lagoon as one of the best things to do near Reykjavík. This natural pool is the most popular tourist attraction in Iceland and is worth the visit. However, note that the Blue Lagoon is 45 minutes from the capital, so you need a car or take the shuttle bus. Plus, book your ticket in advance as it is quickly busy.
How to get around Reykjavík
The best way to get around Reykjavík is on foot! The city is compact, and all the main attractions are close to each other. Plus, it is the best way to soak up the local atmosphere and immerse yourself in art and culture.
And if walking is too challenging, rent an electric bike or take a taxi.
Where to stay in Reykjavík
The best area to stay in Reykjavík is in Midborg, the downtown neighbourhood near the Laugavegur shopping street. Here you will find the best shops, restaurants and cafés and will be within walking distance of the top attractions in the capital.
The central location of this district makes it a perfect place to stay for one night and explore on foot, whether you are travelling alone, as a couple or with children.
And why not minimise your carbon footprint on your visit? Check out these eco-friendly hotels in Reykjavík:
Holt Hotel – The Art Hotel
A city centre boutique hotel filled with art, history and culture.
📍 Bergstaðastræti 37, 101 Reykjavík
⭐️ 4.5/5 (Google reviews)
💵 From £205 per night
BOOK YOUR STAY
Loft – HI Hostel & Bar
A casual hostel with a warm atmosphere located in the city centre.
📍 Bankastræti 7, 101 Reykjavík
⭐️ 4.5/5 (Google reviews)
💵 From £106 per night
BOOK YOUR STAY
Day 2 – The Golden Circle
It is time to hit the road and explore the famous Golden Circle, a circular route starting from Reykjavík that will take you through incredible natural wonders, from awe-inspiring waterfalls to active geysers and secret hot springs.
Through this immersive road, you will discover three of the most well-known attractions in Iceland: Thingvellir National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage site), the Geysir geothermal area with a frequent erupting geyser and the unique Gullfoss waterfall.
You will also come across Kerid, a volcanic crater lake presenting incredible colours between the red volcanic rock (the caldera) and the turquoise-blue water.
Good to know: do not worry too much about driving the Golden Circle in winter. The roads are in good condition as it is one of the most popular tourist routes regardless of the season.
My experience – I had the chance to visit the Golden Circle in January, and the road conditions were okay. There was a bit of snow and ice, but it was never a problem. Plus, seeing all those famous natural attractions under the snow was something to see! I have visited Iceland in different seasons, and exploring in winter was magical, especially Gullfoss, where half of the waterfall was frozen.
One of my favourite experiences at that time of year was the Secret Lagoon! It is the oldest natural pool in Iceland, located in a beautiful and peaceful setting – and less touristy than the Blue Lagoon 🙂
Things to do & see in the Golden Circle
Popular Golden Circle stops (main tour):
- Þingvellir National Park
- Geysir Hot Spring Area & Strokkur
- Gullfoss Waterfall
- Kerið Crater Lake
Less visited Golden Circle stops (hidden gems):
- Thjorsardalur Valley
- Brúarfoss waterfall
- Sólheimar Eco-Village
- Thorufoss Waterfall
- Fridheimar Tomato and Horse Farm
- Faxi Waterfall
- Secret Lagoon
- Reykjadalur Valley
Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.
Iceland’s Golden Circle – FAQ
It takes over 3 hours to cover the entire Golden Circle route, which you can easily do in one day. This region has a lot to offer, yet, we often underestimate it because of the big three sites. Therefore, get off the beaten track and look for authentic experiences.
Yes, driving the Golden Circle in winter is easy! The roads are in good condition as it is one of the most popular tourist routes in Iceland. Either way, do not drive fast. Always check the weather conditions before you travel, and in the event of a snowstorm, do not panic and go slow.
The best way to experience the Golden Circle is to drive it clockwise, starting from Reykjavik towards Thingvellir National Park. However, you are welcome to try something else and experience it how you want! It might even be better to avoid the big coaches full of tourists.
Where to stay near the Golden Circle
Where you want to stay near the Golden Circle is up to you and what you plan to do. In my opinion, I recommend staying near Selfoss or Hella to be ready for your next day on the road.
Here are a few eco-responsible hotels near the Golden Circle:
Hotel Fljótshlíd
A peaceful hotel located on a family-run horse farm.
📍 Smáratún, 861 Hvolsvöllur, Iceland
⭐️ 4.5/5 (Google reviews)
💵 From £129 per night
BOOK YOUR STAY
Hotel Eldhestar
An eco-hotel surrounded by nature in the town of Ölfus.
📍 816 Sveitarfélagið Ölfus, Iceland
⭐️ 4.5/5 (Google reviews)
💵 From £152 per night
BOOK YOUR STAY
Day 3 – The South Coast
Your third day on this winter road trip in Iceland will take you through charming towns, beautiful waterfalls and stunning black-sand beaches.
Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.
Seljalandsfoss
Seljalandsfoss is one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland as it is possible to walk around, making it an excellent place for stunning photos and memories. However, be careful not to slip in winter – I did not go behind it in that season as I was too afraid of falling.
It is a fun attraction to discover, especially in winter when the surroundings are frozen and the colours are gorgeous.
Skogafoss
Skogafoss is one of my favourite waterfalls! It is always beautiful, whatever the season. I also love the rainbow it creates on a sunny day.
In addition, it is possible to walk up the waterfall to have a great view from above. But be mindful of the stairs in winter – they are slippery.
Dyrhólaey
You will continue your journey to Dyrhólaey, a high promontory distinguished by a volcanic arch offering breathtaking views!
The road to access the area is easy to drive in winter, although slightly slippery, so do not go fast. You can park nearby and walk around to enjoy the different viewpoints.
My favourite view was the one looking over Reynisfjara, which revealed a rock isolated in the centre of the beach. I found the place even more special in winter as the black sand contrasted so well with the white snow.
Good to know: do not forget, the environment of this place is very fragile, so you must stay on the right path and be careful not to go too close to the edge, as the cliffs are not steady.
Reynisfjara Beach
Reynisfjara is the name of the long black-sand beach. You can reach it by car by turning just before Vik. The road in winter was easy to drive and beautiful, with a little church on its left side.
The characteristic of Reynisfjara is its basaltic rocks in the impressive shape of hexagonal tubes. You can walk down the beach and enjoy the view, but be careful of the cliffs and rocks in this area, so do not come too close to the edge.
The Town of Vík
Your last stop of the day will be Vík, a pretty seaside and southernmost village located on the main ring road around the island.
It is a lovely place to relax, stroll around and discover the iconic Vik i Myrdal Church, a beautiful white church with a red roof dating back to 1873 and offering a stunning panorama of the ocean and town.
Things to do & see near Vík
- Visit the Vik i Myrdal Church
- Stroll through the town
- Explore the abandoned plane (Solheimafjara)
- Go horseback riding
- Enjoy a coffee at Skool Beans Cafe
- Relax at the Vik Swimming Pool
Where to stay in the South
Vík and its surroundings are the perfect places to stay on your third day in Iceland. However, I recommend you book your accommodation in advance as there are not many.
Here are a few eco-friendly hotels near Vík:
Hotel Kría
A modern hotel with a sleek exterior and stunning views.
📍 Sléttuvegur, 870 Vík, Iceland
⭐️ 4.5/5 (Google reviews)
💵 From £314 per night
BOOK YOUR STAY
Hotel Katla
A cosy hotel set in a breathtaking natural environment.
📍 Hofdabrekku, 871 Vík, Iceland
⭐️ 4.3/5 (Google reviews)
💵 From £273 per night
BOOK YOUR STAY
Day 4 – Vatnajökull Glacier
You continue your winter road trip east towards glaciers, lagoons and ice caves – a true discovery of the natural wonders in Iceland!
Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.
Ice caves & glacier hike
Vatnajökull Glacier is the largest and most voluminous ice cap of Iceland and the second largest in Europe. The average ice thickness is 380m (1250ft), and below it, you will find several volcanoes.
This glacier is so impressive, and I am always amazed when I see it. In 2017, my mum and I did a hike on it, and it was one of my favourite experiences. When I returned in winter, Matt and I visited some blue ice caves with Tröll Expeditions – an experience I recommend for all travellers; solo, couples or families!
The colour of the caves was surreal, and I could not stop touching the ice. Plus, you can only visit these caves in winter, as they melt in summer. So each winter, new ice caves are created in different places with different shapes.
- Best glacier hike: Skaftafell National Park Glacier Hike
- Best ice cave tour: Crystal Ice Cave Day Tour
Jökulsárlón
Jökulsárlón is a natural wonder and a must-see on your trip across Iceland. You will find this iconic glacial lake on the edge of the Vatnajökull National Park. You can easily park near it and walk around.
The blue colour of the water and the icebergs floating on it make it a perfect place for nature lovers and photo enthusiasts!
Diamond Beach
Not far from Jökulsárlón, you will find Diamond Beach, a black-sand beach with small icebergs that washed up on the shore, looking like sparkling diamonds.
This natural attraction is created by the icebergs of Jökulsárlón being swept away and ending up on this beach, looking like little diamonds that perfectly contrast with the black of the sand.
Is it safe to walk on Diamond Beach?
Yes, walking on Diamond Beach is safe! You can park nearby and explore the beach on foot. However, watch out for the waves and do not come too close. Iceland is famous for its sneaky ripples and strong tides.
Svínafellsjökull Glacier
Svínafellsjökull is an outlet glacier of Vatnajökull and one of the most beautiful landscapes I have ever seen! You can reach it by driving off-road where you will find a car park at the end. Once there, you can continue on foot, but be careful as the floor is very slippery, so maybe go with crampons (I wish I had some).
You can walk along the edge but not on the glacier. However, you can still get quite close, and the view from there is breathtaking. Everything was quiet and peaceful, and we could even hear the ice cracking. We experienced it at the end of the day when the sun was setting, and the light was reflecting off the top of the mountains – it was magical! A moment I will never forget.
Svartifoss waterfall
You will find Svartifoss inside the Skaftafell National Park, one of the most popular sights in the park. This waterfall is surrounded by dark lava columns, and its base is known for its sharp rocks – an impressive attraction worth the hike!
It is possible to access it in winter, but I recommend dressing appropriately and wearing shoes with good grip or crampons. I also suggest checking the weather beforehand and asking the information office about the trail conditions before you go.
The hike takes around 90 minutes (1.5km) from the Visitor Centre – with photo stops, of course! Just note that the route is uphill, but you will come across other beautiful waterfalls on your journey.
Where to stay near Vatnajökull
Once again, book your accommodation in advance as there are not many around the area. Here are a few eco-friendly hotels:
Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon
A modern wood-clad hotel surrounded by mountains.
📍 Hnappavellir, 785 Öræfi, Iceland
⭐️ 4.5/5 (Google reviews)
💵 From £312 per night
BOOK YOUR STAY
Skyrhúsid Guest House
A cosy guesthouse set in a former yoghurt-making facility.
📍 Þjóðvegur, 781, Iceland
⭐️ 4.5/5 (Google reviews)
💵 From £133 per night
BOOK YOUR STAY
Day 5 – Back to Reykjavík
It is time to head back to Reykjavík on your last day in Iceland. Depending on when you need to return the car, you can make a few more stops on your journey back, especially if you missed something on your way there or would like to revisit something.
If you have not had the chance, you can also explore Reykjavík and do some last-minute shopping before heading home.
I hope you enjoyed your 5-day winter road trip in Iceland! Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions or other suggestions.
More itinerary ideas
Depending on if you have less or more time, here are other itinerary ideas for a memorable road trip in Iceland:
3-day winter itinerary:
- Day 1 – Reykjavik
- Day 2 – The Golden Circle
- Day 3 – Vík & the South Coast
7-day winter itinerary:
- Day 1 – Reykjavik
- Day 2 – Snaefellsnes peninsula
- Day 3 – The Golden Circle
- Day 4 – The South Coast
- Day 5 – Vík to Jökulsárlón
- Day 6 – Ice cave & glacier hike
- Day 7 – Back to Reykjavik
9-day winter itinerary:
- Day 1 – Reykjavik
- Day 2 – The Golden Circle
- Day 3 – The South Coast
- Day 4 – Vík to Jökulsárlón
- Day 5 – Ice cave & glacier hike
- Day 6 – The East Fjords
- Day 7 – Mývatn
- Day 8 – Akureyri
- Day 9 – Back to Reykjavik
PLEASE NOTE – I do not recommend trying to do a full Ring Road tour if you stay in Iceland for less than 9 days in winter. The days are extremely short, especially in December and January, and the weather can be unpredictable, so it takes time to travel around. Always check the weather and road conditions beforehand.
Need inspiration for your next city break? Check out this article:
10 Eco-Friendly & Fun Things to Do in Helsinki
Why should you visit Iceland in winter?
Exploring Iceland in winter is like setting foot on a magical land. And it will be, without a doubt, an experience you will never forget.
The island in winter is simply beautiful: the waterfalls are frozen, the roads are icy, and the snowy landscapes are stunning. Plus, you will have the chance to walk through blue ice caves, soak in a hot spring surrounded by snow, and see the Northern Lights!
Also, you might encounter fewer crowds and tourists during that time, although the island is constantly busy.
I had the chance to do a road trip through Iceland in January, which was very different from my previous trip in the spring – it was like discovering a new side of the island, and I loved it.
Is it better to visit Iceland in summer or winter?
The answer to this question is subjective and depends on what you prefer to do and would like to see. Here is some information on these 2 seasons which I had the chance to experience:
Visiting Iceland in summer
In this season, the days are longer and warmer, which makes it possible to see the surroundings better, especially the blackness of the rock and the contrast of colours in certain places.
You will find that the roads are in better condition, especially in the east and west fjords, where it can be challenging to drive in winter. Plus, the middle of the island will open up again, providing more possibilities for exploration (impossible to visit in any other season).
It is also the perfect season to experience wildlife. You can see puffins from a few places, including Dyrhólaey on the south coast, and it is the best time to go whale watching from Reykjavik or the north of the island.
Finally, summer is an excellent time to visit Iceland if you like camping, as the weather will be more suitable with endless daylight.
Good to know: it is also still possible to see the Northern Lights until April.
Visiting Iceland in winter
In winter, the island is covered with a beautiful white coat, the waterfalls are frozen, and the landscapes are breathtaking. It is the only time of the year you can visit ice caves, and it is also a great season to see the Northern Lights, as the location of the island makes it one of the best places in the world to see them.
Good to know: winter is not the best time to see the Northern Lights. Contrary to popular belief, just because the days are shorter and darker does not mean we see more of them. The weather is more cloudy during this period. As a result, the best months are September/October and March/April.
On the other hand, because the days are shorter, you will need to plan your road trip accordingly and be ready to change your plans if necessary. The roads might be more challenging to drive on, and you might encounter a few snowstorms, so pay extra attention to the weather and check it regularly, as well as the road conditions website.
Despite these challenges, exploring Iceland in winter is a unique experience I cannot recommend enough!
Is Iceland expensive to visit?
Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Iceland is one of the most expensive countries I have ever visited, so I recommend budgeting your trip beforehand.
However, the good thing is that most natural wonders are free! So your cost will mostly come from your car, accommodation and food.
Here are some tips for reducing your costs in Iceland:
- Book everything in advance
- Rent a budget car
- Stay in affordable hostels
- See all the free attractions
- Volunteer (check out Workaway)
- Cook for yourself
- Visit in summer & camp
Want some tips on how to plan a perfect road trip? Check out this article:
How to Plan the Ultimate (Eco-Friendly) Road Trip
Are 5 days enough to visit Iceland in winter?
Yes, 5 days are enough and a reasonable amount of time to discover the best of Iceland in winter. I always recommend staying longer on the island as there is so much to do and see, but I also understand that Iceland is an expensive country to visit.
Within 5 days, you will have the chance to see some of the best attractions in the country, like the Golden Circle, Jökulsárlón, blue ice caves, Vík, black-sand beaches and Skogafoss. It will give you an excellent overview of what Iceland offers, with a variety of landscapes and cultural sites.
To make the most of your trip, prepare your itinerary and plan your stops in advance but leave room for the unexpected, especially in winter.
Please note that I do not recommend doing the whole Ring Road tour in winter if you stay less than 9 days. The days are too short so you will need more time to travel around.
What to pack for an Iceland winter trip
The best way to explore Iceland in winter and enjoy the cold weather is to arrive prepared. Being mindful of how you pack your suitcase is essential. Here are some clothing items and gear you will need to be comfortable on your winter trip:
- Boots: you will need waterproof boots with good grip to keep your feet warm and dry during outdoor activities and when exploring outside. I wore my Sorel boots, and they were perfect. They are very comfortable, and my feet were never wet or cold.
- Winter thermal socks: wearing quality socks is essential to keeping your feet warm. Mine were thick thermal socks that I used for this trip (and skiing in Lapland). They were not highly technical, but they did the job and were comfy.
- Coat: one of the most necessary elements for a winter gateway! Choosing a coat that is right for you and can adapt to the types of activities you want to do is crucial. I wore my Fjällräven Nuuk parka, and once again, it was great. Buying a quality cold-weather jacket is expensive, but you will not regret it (I have owned mine for years, and I even wear it at home in the UK). This coat has kept me warm for all my winter trips.
- Base layers and second layers: these layers are crucial if you want to stay warm. The base layers are usually long-sleeved thermal t-shirts, and the second layers can be thin thermal sweaters or thick jumpers, depending on the temperature and how many layers you want to wear. They do not need to be fancy, but I recommend having several to switch over the week. Mine are from Decathlon.
- Gloves and hats: exploring Iceland in winter and enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking on a glacier without gloves or a hat sounds impossible (especially if you like taking photos)! As you will spend most of your time outside, you should not forget to protect your head and hands. I also recommend wearing waterproof gloves for extra protection and a padded hat. Again, mine are from Decathlon.
- Scarf: the scarf will depend on your preferences, as many people do not enjoy feeling something around their neck. But because the wind can be strong in Iceland, I wore a Buff. It was one of my favourite items! The one I chose was lightweight, thermal and incredibly useful. Buff products are much easier to wear than long scarves and adapt to your activity level.
- Pants: the type of pants you wear will most likely depend on your activity and your preferences. Most of the time, I wore my jeans with tights underneath. Matt did the same (without tights, aha), but he was always warm enough. However, for some places or activities like visiting ice caves, having windproof/waterproof pants is very useful.
Eco-friendly gear you might love:
- 10 Best Sustainable Backpacks for Travel & Hiking
- 10 Best Reusable & Eco-Friendly Travel Mugs
- 8 Best Filtered Water Bottles for Travel & Hiking
Check out this page for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.
Shop the editable travel packing list
Prepare for your perfect outdoor adventure and explore responsibly.
How to get around Iceland in winter
Rent a car & self-drive
The best way to get around Iceland in winter is by renting a car and self-driving around the island, allowing you to be free and stop wherever you want along the road.
You can rent your car from Reykjavík Airport and start your journey following the Ring Road (Road 1) from here. This road is in good condition in winter, but always check the weather before setting off as it can be unpredictable and powerful winds are dangerous, especially in this season.
To book your car, I recommend using Rentalcars.com to search and compare which one is best for you. From affordable to luxury, they make it easy to choose and have a great selection of rental agents.
It is also possible to rent a small car in winter, but I believe a 4×4 is always a good idea for a road trip in Iceland. We had a Suzuki S-cross 4×4 for our trip in January, which made it easy and smooth.
Regarding petrol, be careful as there are not many stations. With my mum in spring, we made a mistake once and had to turn around (which was a bit scary, considering Iceland has mostly big empty spaces).
Do you need a car for a road trip through Iceland?
Yes, the best way to explore Iceland is by renting a car. However, if you do not feel safe driving yourself in winter or are short on time, I suggest joining a small guided tour starting from Reykjavík.
How to rent a car in Iceland?
The best way to rent a car in Iceland is to search and compete online. I use Rentalcars.com, and it always gives me the best prices. You can book your car straight from the platform, and I never had any problem!
Join a small guided tour
If you do not feel safe or confident self-driving in winter, I suggest joining a guided tour. It will allow you to connect with a group of like-minded people and experience the unique Icelandic culture without worrying about your itinerary or schedule.
But please be mindful and choose a small local tour operator who cares about the local communities and environment. Check out their website for green practices and ask questions.
Also, prioritise a guided tour with a small group of people to ensure you do not contribute to overtourism.
Shop the printable road trip planner
Create your dream adventure & live an unforgettable experience on the Icelandic road.
Weather & road conditions in Iceland in winter
Icelandic weather in winter
In winter, you can expect cold and snowy weather, with unpredictable storms and strong winds. Luckily for us, it was sunny with a clear blue sky every day in January, but I know this does not happen often. Most of the time, the sky will be covered with clouds. In fact, the week before we arrived, there was a significant snowstorm, and most roads were closed – even Road 1, so many people were stuck in different parts of the island.
You can also expect temperatures around 0°c. It was not too bad for us and did not feel too cold compared to your cruise in Norway in November. The sun rose around 10am and sat around 5pm (end of January), which gave us enough time to explore. Plus, the colours were always beautiful, as the sun was never really high in the sky.
How cold is Iceland in winter?
Iceland in winter is not too cold, with an average temperature of around 0 °c. The coldest month is January, with temperatures averaging around -1°c, although they can go from -10°c to 5°c.
How many hours of daylight does Iceland have in winter?
In winter, days are much shorter in Iceland, with daylight hours averaging around 5 hours. You will find the shortest day of the year in December because of the winter equinox, with only 4 hours of full daylight (11am-3pm).
Iceland road conditions in winter
I visited the country in winter, and the road conditions were good. Most were icy and covered with snow, but it was never bad, and I never felt scared of driving.
In any case, never speed up! The maximum speed on the whole island is 90km/h and 80 on gravel roads. Always check the conditions before you take the road, and in the event of a storm, do not panic and go slowly.
Good to know: if you do not feel 100% confident, stick to Road 1, and you will be fine. Do not try to venture inside the island as the roads will be closed (+ it is dangerous!).
Tips for driving in Iceland in winter
Here are a few more driving tips for a safe and unforgettable winter trip to Iceland:
- Stick to Road 1 and the south coast
- Rent a 4-wheel drive car
- Be ready for the unexpected
- Drive slowly & do not panic
- Check the road safety website
- Be careful of the wind
- Allow plenty of time to get around
- Do not venture on F-roads
Fancy a winter getaway in Lapland, Finland? Check out this article:
Travel Guide to Lapland, Finland in Winter
Wifi & internet access in Iceland
Most cafés, restaurants, hotels and guesthouses offer free wifi. In fact, Iceland is a world leader in fibre internet, with 90% of homes having access to full-fibre internet services.
Regarding your internet access on the road, you will find 3 main providers: Síminn, Nova and Vodafone. They all offer good connectivity anywhere in the country, including remote areas.
If you come from Europe, you will be able to use your phone as normally thanks to the EU rule “roam like at home”, where you pay the same price when using the phone anywhere in Europe as you would at home, including Iceland.
However, if you come from a country outside of Europe, this rule does not apply, so check the terms and conditions with your provider and what is included in your package regarding international plans.
The 3 providers mentioned above also supply prepaid SIM cards so you can use your phone and get mobile coverage in Iceland – especially important when travelling in winter.
Want to catch the magical Northern Lights? Check out this article:
10 Best Northern Lights Holiday Tours in Norway
Can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland?
Yes, Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. The best months to experience them are September/October and March/April when it is dark but with fewer clouds.
Contrary to what one might think, it is not because the days are shorter and darker in December and January that you can see more of them, as the weather will be cloudier during this period.
Watching the Northern Light dancing above your head is a magical experience that I highly recommend – so keep your eyes on the sky in the evening!
Fancy a scenic road trip on the ring road? Check out this article:
9 Perfect Days in Iceland: Ring Road Itinerary
Tips for reducing your eco-impact on a road trip
Sustainable travel means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.
Iceland is the country that opened my eyes to the negative impacts of tourism. During each of my trips, people were not respecting the fragile environment of some places by going over fences to take perfect photos or using their cars on protected land to access remote sites, destroying flora and fauna.
10 ways to reduce your impact in Iceland
1- Book direct flights to Iceland and offset your carbon footprint. But, do not use carbon offsetting as a complete solution. Combine it with other sustainable practices, like avoiding single-use plastic on the plane and mindfully packing your suitcase to be ready for your green adventure.
2- If you self-drive and rent a car, choose the smallest vehicle adapted to what you want to do and see. And to go even further, you can rent an electric one. Many charging points are accessible around the island (check out PlugShare).
3- One of the best ways to reduce your environmental impact is to plan your route in advance. I know getting lost on a road trip is fun and exciting, but when trying to minimise your footprint, planning your itinerary will help avoid making unnecessary stops or detours, wasting fuel and increasing your carbon footprint.
4- When travelling in Iceland, treat the landscapes and wildlife with respect! Do not come close to animals, do not feed them and respect their home. Iceland has a fragile ecosystem, so always pay attention to where you drive, park your car and walk.
5- Try avoiding crowded sites, and get off the beaten track by adding less visited areas to your itinerary.
6- Stick to official routes and gravel roads – a rugged landscape of lava or ice is so fragile that the wheels of a 4×4 can damage the land and leave scars for decades.
7- Prioritise slow travel. This approach allows you to take more time to get to know a country and its culture on a deeper level, which can also mean travelling less but staying longer = quality over quantity. Therefore, try spending at least 4 days or a week in Iceland. And if you stay longer, you can go beyond the South and explore lesser-known parts of the island, such as the North or West Fjords.
8- If it is easier, you can travel on an organised small group tour, which is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and protect the vulnerability of your surroundings.
9- Always respect the local heritage. Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, always be respectful and try to learn a few Icelandic words!
10- Bring a reusable filtered water bottle and lunch boxes with you. It will help avoid buying single-use items that will be wasted. Instead, pack healthy and plastic-free snacks and refill your water bottle whenever you can – at a rest stop or in a river! It will also help you save money, as buying food and drinks at gas stations can be expensive.
Carbon offset
Here is how you can calculate the carbon footprint of your road trip: carbon footprint calculator. It will link to local carbon-capturing projects you can support to compensate for your travel-related emissions.
More inspiration for your adventure:
- The Complete Guide to Sustainable Travel
- 10 Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
- Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World
- 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure
Iceland travel planning guide
🚑 Should I buy travel insurance to travel to Iceland?
Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your winter road trip in Iceland stress-free with one of my favourite providers, Nomad Insurance.
💧 Can you drink the water in Iceland?
Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over Iceland, unless advised otherwise. However, I also recommend travelling with the UltraPress Purifier Bottle, a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.
🚗 Is it easy to rent a car in Iceland?
Yes, renting a car in Iceland is easy and a great way to explore the island freely. I recommend booking yours with Rentalcars.com – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.
🏨 How to book accommodation in Iceland?
The best way to book your accommodation in Iceland is with Booking.com – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury resorts.
✈️ What is the best site to buy a flight to Iceland?
I recommend booking your plane with Skyscanner. It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.
Have you ever experienced a winter road trip in Iceland or would you like to try one day?
Let me know in the comments below!
With love ♡
Lucie
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