What's the Weather Like in Reykjavik in December
December is a very special time for Reykjavik. Far from being dreary and cold, the cities and towns are alight with holiday lighting and festivities. The magical month is absolutely beautiful, even though the days are cold and crispy, the Northern Lights often appear. Keep your eyes peeled.
Temperature
In December the daily average temperature sits around 2°C. The lowest temperature expected is -1°C and the highest is 4°C.
Rain
December expects around 40mm of rainfall and 19 days of rainfall.
Sunshine
There is on average 0 hours of sunshine per day in December.
Snow
Snow is expected in December and there have been snow storms in the past so make sure you check the weather before heading out.
Sea Temperature
In December the sea temperature is on average 7°C. However, there is no need to swim in the sea as the Blue Lagoon is 37-39°C and there are lots of other hot springs around to swim in.
Weather warnings
There could well be storms in Winter (November - March), especially December and these could be with or without snow. The weather in Iceland is very changeable and the snow or rain could accompany storms depending on how bad the weather is. Definitely don't drive during a storm, they have previously been strong enough to blow cars off the road. However, you will still be able to enjoy Reykjavik during a storm, here are some ideas.
Daylight Hours
December is the darkest month of the year. The winter solstice usually takes place around the 21st of December; where the sunrises around 11.20am and sets at 3.30pm. This means the day is only 4 hours and 10 minutes long.
Hotels for Reykjavik in December
101 Hotel
Looking for somewhere luxurious to stay? 101 Hotel is expensive but worth every penny, it's rated 9/10 and you will see why. As one of Reykjavik's first-ever boutique hotels, it's still one of the best. The chic interior, futuristic restaurant, bar and contemporary art make the hotel something special. Make the most of the on-site spa and business-meeting facilities. Choose from a standard, double, deluxe double, double balcony room, junior suite, junior suite balcony, suite balcony and an apartment suite.
The additional amenities, concierge desk, multilingual staff and smoke-free property help give the hotel its high rating. The plush basement gym, steam bath, Jacuzzi and massage service are ideal for winding down and relaxing.
Guesthouse Sunna
Guesthouse Sunna is modern, family owned accommodation in a country hotel style, located in the old city centre. You will find the guesthouse across the street from Hallgríms church and the beautiful sculpture garden of The National Einar Jónsson Gallery. The Flybus from Keflavík airport stops right by our doorstep. Only a few minutes walk away from the busy streets with popular cafes and restaurants, and good variety of shops, museums and art galleries.
Hotel Smari
Hotel Smari is a fashionable 3* hotel in the Reykjavik Capital Area, just a stone's throw away from Smaralind, Iceland's largest Shopping Centre. The hotel is in short walking distance away from several restaurants and cafes' along with Spot, the largest and finest live music bar in Iceland.
Restaurants and Bars for Reykjavik in December
Grillmarkadurinn
Grillmarkadurinn source local produce from farmers in Reykjavik to create a magic menu fusion of traditional and modern cuisine. Popular local products featuring on the menu are; lamb, beef, trout, quail, skyr and honey. Chefs design the menu according to the produce in season and then cook using fire, smoke, fire logs and coal. The outcome is an exciting culinary treat where Icelandic heritage meets modern age. If you're a meat eater then here is the place to tuck into some juicy, succulent food. Pop to the lounge for a fresh, fruity cocktail.
Bio Borgari
Bio Borgari is an organic burger joint, owned by two brothers. Take-away a scrumptious hamburger from their street-vending cart and enjoy their pesto and ketchup recipes. The duo offer meat and vegetable burgers and root vegetable chips. The veggie burger is actually entirely vegan too so there is something for everyone at this stand.
Kaldi Bar
Kaldi Bar is a cool micro brewery open Sunday - Thursday from 1pm-1am and Friday - Saturday 12pm - 3am. The relaxed vibe here makes it perfect for catching up with friends, meeting new people or generally being a tourists and enjoying a refreshing 'Kaldi' locally brewed beer. Get cosy here and you won't want to leave. For those on a budget you're in luck as there is a happy hour from 4pm to 7pm.
Things to Do in Reykjavik in December
Christmas
December is the month for Christmas shopping and festive food trying. The wonderful season is ideal for markets, lights and generally a festive atmosphere. Reykjavik has a growing reputation as an alternative Christmas destination and attracts many tourists every year.
Bonfires
If you're spending New Years Eve in Reykjavik then you will most likely be visiting the bonfires. Overall, there are 10 bonfires and 7 more in the Great-Reykjavik area. Most fires will be lit at 8.30pm and last until around 10.30pm. Head to the bars and pubs after this to bring in the New Year with a lively atmosphere.
Seljavallalaug
Hike and swim at Seljavallalaug where you'll find the oldest swimming pool and hot springs. It's just two hours from Reykjavik, but well worth the journey. The pool was built in 1923 and has been maintained by volunteers over the years. The pool is man-made but the water comes from a natural hot spring. You'll find a changing room here, but no showers or bathrooms. Chill out in the warm pool on a chilly, foggy day and you'll feel like you're in a dream.
