Weather in Iceland in December

The milder end of December's range is generally found along the south and southwest coasts, where the sea moderates the air and snow tends to fall less heavily than inland.

• Reykjavik: Reykjavik sits on the southwest coast and usually sees the mildest December conditions on the island, with temperatures typically hovering just around freezing and frequent rain or sleet rather than deep snow. The city is compact and walkable, so even on blustery days you can move between museums, cafes and the harbour with little exposure to the wind. Its position also makes it the easiest base for day trips, which is why we consider it the most dependable starting point for a winter visit. Reykjavik holidays
• Keflavik: The Reykjanes Peninsula lies a short drive from Keflavik Airport and tends to be one of the milder corners of the southwest in winter, with lava fields that are often exposed to strong coastal winds. Road access here is generally straightforward compared with the highlands, which makes it a practical choice for a short stay around arrival or departure, the same brief our Iceland Last Minute Holidays deals are built around. Expect changeable weather, but also easy access to the Blue Lagoon, which many visitors find a welcome warm-up after a cold flight.
• Vik: Vik on the south coast is one of the wettest places in Iceland, which means December days here are often mild in temperature but heavy with rain and low cloud over the black sand beaches. The village sits on the Ring Road roughly 180 km from the capital, so it works well as an overnight stop on a longer winter route. We would plan Vik around clear forecasts, as the dramatic coast looks best when the weather allows you to see past the cloud.
• Stykkisholmur: Stykkisholmur is a small harbour town in west Iceland, on the peninsula that stretches out into the Atlantic, where coastal air keeps winter temperatures relatively moderate compared with the interior. The town is quiet in December, which suits travellers who want a calm base and fewer crowds on the streets and at viewpoints, the same brief our Iceland Family Holidays deals are built around. Ferry sailings and boat trips here can be affected by sea conditions, so we would build in a flexible day rather than a tight schedule.
• Seydisfjordur: Seydisfjordur in East Iceland is a fishing town set within mountain walls, and its position means winter weather can be sharp and snowy even when the south coast is milder. We include it for travellers who prefer a more remote and quieter December stay and are comfortable with mountain roads that may need extra care, the same kind of considered brief our Iceland All Inclusive Holidays are built around. Its colourful wooden houses look especially striking against snow, though the town is best approached as a considered rather than a casual winter choice.