How Cold Is It in Iceland During Winter? A Self-Drive Guide

When you picture Iceland in winter, you might imagine snow-blanketed landscapes, icy roads, and freezing Arctic winds. But just how cold is it in Iceland during the winter months? The answer might surprise you. Thanks to the warming influence of the Gulf Stream, Iceland is actually milder than many expect – though still crisp enough to deliver the winter wonderland experience travellers dream of.

For those planning a self-drive winter road trip in Iceland, understanding temperatures, road conditions, and how to prepare is key to enjoying a safe, unforgettable adventure. In this guide, we’ll explore Iceland’s winter climate, offer practical tips, and show why hiring a car in Reykjavík or Keflavík International Airport with Höldur is the best way to embrace the magic of the season.

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Iceland’s Winter Temperatures at a Glance

Contrary to popular belief, Iceland is not the coldest place in Europe during winter. Thanks to its coastal location and warm Atlantic currents, average temperatures are often milder than those in parts of Scandinavia or North America at similar latitudes.

• Reykjavík and South Iceland: Average temperatures range from -1°C to +3°C. Snow is common, but heavy, prolonged freezes are rare.

• North Iceland and Akureyri: Slightly colder, with averages between -3°C and -7°C, and heavier snowfall.

• Highlands: Largely inaccessible in winter, but when measured, temperatures can plummet below -10°C.

• Wind chill factor: Strong winds often make it feel colder than the thermometer suggests.

Tip: While winter days are chilly, they are also full of sparkling light, snow-dusted mountains, and, of course, opportunities to see the northern lights.

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Daylight Hours in Winter

Alongside temperature, daylight hours are an important factor when planning a winter road trip.

• December & January: Around 4–5 hours of daylight in Reykjavík.

• February: 7–9 hours of daylight, growing quickly as spring approaches.

• March: 10–12 hours, with milder conditions and longer driving windows.

For self-drivers, this means planning routes around the available light is essential. The shorter days also make winter perfect for northern lights hunting.

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Preparing for a Winter Road Trip in Iceland

Driving in Iceland in winter requires preparation, but with the right approach, it’s a safe and spectacular experience. Here’s how to get ready:

1. Choose the Right Vehicle

• Car hire at Keflavík Airport or Reykjavík with Höldur gives you immediate access to winter-ready vehicles.

• Many travellers prefer 4x4s or SUVs for added security on snowy or icy roads.

• All Höldur vehicles are fitted with studded winter tires during the winter months, specifically designed to handle Iceland's challenging conditions.

2. Pack Smartly

• Clothing: Thermal layers, waterproof outerwear, gloves, hats, and sturdy boots.

• Driving essentials: Sunglasses for low winter sun, snacks, hot drinks in a flask.

• Navigation: A GPS or mobile maps app, with offline access for rural areas.

3. Drive Safely

• Adjust to conditions: Drive slower on icy or snowy roads.

• Headlights on: Required at all times, day and night.

• Keep distance: Braking distances are longer in winter.

• Check updates: Road.is for live road conditions; Vedur.is for weather forecasts.

4. Plan Your Route

Winter driving often means sticking to main roads and Ring Road sections, which are well-maintained. Highlands and many F-roads are closed until summer.

You might also be interested in: Your Essential Guide to Winter Tyres and Safe Driving in Iceland.

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Winter Road Trip Itineraries

Here are some recommended winter self-drive routes that balance safety, accessibility, and unforgettable scenery:

Golden Circle (Southwest Iceland)

• Distance: ~230 km round trip from Reykjavík.

• Highlights: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir hot spring, and Gullfoss waterfall.

• Why in winter: Easily accessible roads, dramatic frozen waterfalls, fewer crowds.

South Coast to Vík

• Distance: ~350 km round trip from Reykjavík.

• Highlights: Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and views of Eyjafjallajökull.

• Why in winter: Snow-dusted landscapes meet roaring Atlantic waves – a photographer’s dream.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

• Distance: ~450 km round trip from Reykjavík.

• Highlights: Snæfellsjökull glacier, Kirkjufell mountain, dramatic coastlines.

• Why in winter: A compact microcosm of Iceland’s landscapes, easily driven in 2–3 days.

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What Makes Iceland’s Winter Climate Unique?

Iceland’s climate combines maritime influence with Arctic proximity. That means:

• Milder than expected: Reykjavík is often warmer in winter than New York or Boston.

• Changeable: Sunshine, snow, and rain can happen in the same day.

• Windy: Strong gales can make conditions feel colder.

For self-drive travellers, this mix creates both challenges and rewards. With the right car hire and preparation, it’s part of the adventure.

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Why Hire a Car in Iceland for Winter Travel?

Public transport in Iceland is limited, especially outside Reykjavík. In winter, bus schedules are reduced, and many rural routes are inaccessible without a car. Hiring a vehicle with Höldur ensures:

• Flexibility: Stop at northern lights viewpoints or linger at frozen waterfalls.

• Comfort: Travel on your own schedule, with heating and winter-ready vehicles.

• Safety: Höldur’s cars are maintained for Iceland’s conditions, with nationwide support.

• Convenience: Collect your rental from Reykjavík or Keflavík International Airport, ready for the road.

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Winter Driving Myths in Iceland

“Iceland is too cold to drive in winter.”
False. With temperatures around -1°C to +3°C in the south, it’s no colder than many parts of northern Europe.

“You need to be an expert driver.”
Not true. With caution, preparation, and winter tyres, most drivers can handle winter roads.

“You can’t see much in winter.”
On the contrary – winter reveals Iceland’s landscapes in an entirely different light, with snowy mountains, icy waterfalls, and long northern nights perfect for aurora chasing.

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Sustainable Winter Travel

At Höldur, we believe in protecting Iceland’s delicate environment. When hiring a car for winter travel:

• Choose eco-conscious vehicles from our fleet where possible.

• Stick to marked roads: Driving off-road is illegal and damages fragile ecosystems.

• Leave no trace: Pack out waste, and respect nature’s rhythm.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How cold does it get in Iceland during winter?

In Reykjavík and the south, average temperatures range from -1°C to +3°C. In the north, it can drop to -7°C, with occasional extremes lower.

Is driving in Iceland in winter safe?

Yes, with preparation. Höldur provides winter-ready cars with studded tyres. Always check weather and road conditions before driving.

Do I need a 4x4 in winter?

For city stays and main routes, a standard car is fine. For rural trips or snowier regions, a 4x4 is recommended.

Can I hire a car at Keflavík International Airport in winter?

Absolutely. Höldur offers car hire directly at Keflavík Airport, so you can begin your winter adventure as soon as you land.

What should I pack for a winter road trip in Iceland?

Warm layers, waterproof outerwear, sturdy boots, gloves, hats, and sunglasses for the low sun.

How many hours of daylight are there in winter?

In December, 4–5 hours in Reykjavík; by February, 7–9 hours. Daylight increases rapidly into March.

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Final Thoughts

So, how cold is it in Iceland during winter? Cold enough for snow, ice, and northern lights magic – but not as extreme as many imagine. With average temperatures around freezing, Iceland’s winters are accessible, beautiful, and full of adventure.

The key to enjoying it all? Preparation, the right mindset, and a reliable rental car. By choosing Höldur for your car hire in Reykjavík or Keflavík International Airport, you’ll enjoy the flexibility, comfort, and safety needed to explore Iceland’s winter landscapes at your own pace.

From frozen waterfalls to star-filled skies, Iceland in winter is waiting for you. Bundle up, embrace the chill, and let Höldur be your trusted travel companion every step of the way.

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