Europe · December
Best time to visit Iceland in December 🇮🇸
December in Iceland is great time to visit. a great time — solid weather and most experiences open, often with fewer crowds than the absolute peak.
Last updated June 2026
Is December a good time to visit Iceland? Quick answer
Yes — a great time to go.
| Verdict for December | Great time to visit |
| Average temperature | 2°C high / -2°C low |
| Rainy days | ~13 days |
| Crowds | med |
| Prices | high |
| Events this month | Yule Lads arrive 12 Dec, New Year fireworks Reykjavík |
| Peak months overall | May, June, July, August, September, October |
| Insider tip | Don't try the F-roads / highlands outside Jun–early Sep — they're closed. |
Iceland year at a glance
The absolute peak months for Iceland are May, June, July, August, September, October. December is a solid shoulder choice if you want fewer crowds.
What Iceland is like in December
Just 4 hours of daylight but cosy — NYE fireworks in Reykjavík are wild; book early. Jun–Aug for midnight sun, hiking, ring road in full access. Sep–Mar for aurora. Apr–May & Sep are sweet shoulder months.
Insider tip
Don't try the F-roads / highlands outside Jun–early Sep — they're closed.
Other countries also at their peak in December
Thailand in December
A tale of two coasts and three seasons.
Philippines in December
7,000 islands, one dry season.
Cambodia in December
Cool & dry for Angkor.
Laos in December
Mekong country, cool dry winters.
UAE in December
Desert winters are magical; summers brutal.
Switzerland in December
Two seasons, both spectacular.
FAQs: Iceland in December
Is December a good time to visit Iceland?
Yes — it's a great time to go. December in Iceland is great time to visit. Expect average highs around 2°C and lows near -2°C, with roughly 13 rainy days.
What is the weather like in Iceland in December?
Average daily high around 2°C, low around -2°C, with about 13 rainy days. Just 4 hours of daylight but cosy — NYE fireworks in Reykjavík are wild; book early.
What events or festivals happen in Iceland in December?
Key events in December include Yule Lads arrive 12 Dec, New Year fireworks Reykjavík.
Are flights and hotels cheaper in Iceland in December?
Prices in December are typically high — book early, with moderate crowds.
Should I book Iceland in advance for December?
Booking 4–6 weeks ahead is usually enough in December, with more flexibility on stays than during the absolute peak.