Who doesn’t love gorgeous landscapes and unique travel experiences? Iceland fulfils every expectation of its visitors without letting them down. The land of ice and fire is a mesmerising dream destination for many people. Iceland in January is a great time to explore this amazing country because of fewer crowds, budget-friendly stays and airfares, fun winter activities and delicious winter food. Before going on this exciting adventure scroll down and read all the necessary information that might help you.

Weather in Iceland in January

January in Iceland is a winter month making it a great opportunity for travellers to explore without any crowd, budget airfares, offer thrilling winter activities and so much more. The average temperature in Iceland in January is around -1°C (31°F). The temperature can go up to 3°C (37°F) and can be as low as -3°C (27°F) but the winds may be very cold. Also, it is very rare that temperatures drop below -10°C (14°F) in January. Almost everyone has a misconception about Iceland that it is extremely cold in January but thanks to the Gulf Stream’s water making winter a bit mild than expected. Get ready to explore as much snow as you want as it snows a lot in January.

What to Pack for Iceland in January

Warm clothes and layers
Waterproof clothes as it might sleet, hail or rain
Good and comfortable shoes such as hiking boots
Warm layers under the clothes such as thermal underwear
Wool sweater
Windproof clothes
Wool socks
Warm hat and scarf
Gloves
Swimsuit if you wish to visit warm swimming pools or hot springs

Places to Visit in Iceland in January

1. Reykjavik

It is the capital city of Iceland steeped in Viking history, culture, traditions and the magical northern lights. It is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and one must definitely visit it. Besides history and culture, the city also offers some splendid landscapes and strange food items (Give them a try). Here’s a list of the top places to visit while in Reykjavik.

Hallgrímskirkja
Perlan
Reykjavík Art Museum
The Settlement Exhibition
Icelandic Phallological Museum
Harpan
Sun Voyager
National Museum of Iceland

Reykjavik - Places to visit in Iceland in January — Image credits: Pexels.com

2. Jökulsárlón

Plenty of tourists are attracted to this amazing destination in Iceland. Jökulsárlón has also been the destination for popular movies including The James Bond films, Tomb Raider and so on. You can also explore free-flowing icebergs, go on lagoon tours, and so much more. Here’s a list of the top places to visit while in Jökulsárlón.

Diamond Beach
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Fjallsárlón
Breiðárlón
Þórbergssetur

Jökulsárlón - Places to visit in Iceland in January — Source – Pixabay

3. Vik

Vik is a small village in Iceland offering incredible and breathtaking natural wonders to its visitors. This alluring place even houses the most popular black sand beach of Reynisfjara where plenty of movies and series have been shot. In conclusion, do not forget to add Vik to your itinerary and explore something wonderful. Here’s a list of the top places to visit while in Vik.

Reynisdrangar
Reynisfjara Beach
Dyrhólaey
Icelandic Lava Show
The Perfect Circle, Made By Iceland
Vik I Myrdal Church
Vík Swimming Pool
Black Sand Beach Reynisfjara
Voyage Vik / Voyages Friendship Statue
Hálsanefshellir Cave
Dyrhólaey Viewpoint
Black Sand Beach Vik
Skaftfellingur Museum
Kirkjufjara Beach
Dyrhólaey Lighthouse
Arnardrangur

Vik - Places to Visit in Iceland in January — Image credits: Pexels.com

4. Húsavík

Húsavík is mainly known for the best whale-watching opportunities on the island but in summers. This destination also offers great attractions to visit and delicious local food at restaurants. You won’t find any difficulty in finding accommodation as there are many nice and budget-friendly hotels, cabins and hostels to stay in. Here’s a list of the top places to visit while in Húsavík.

Geosea – Geothermal Sea Baths
Húsavík Whale Museum
Puffin Island
Húsavík Mountain
Botnsvatn
Exploration Museum
Húsavík Wooden Church
Whale watching
Æðarfossar
Húsavík Lighthouse
Húsavík Museum
Húsavíkurfjall

Husavik - Places to visit in Iceland in January — Source – Pixabay

5. Seydisfjordur

From thrilling outdoor activities to luxurious dining options Seydisfjordur has it all. You can add this lovely destination to your itinerary and explore a lot with your loved ones. Moreover, visit stunning museums, go shopping or participate in cultural events. In conclusion, everything here is worth visiting and giving a try. Here’s a list of places to visit in Seydisfjordur.

Gufu waterfall
Bjólfur
Skaftfell – Centre for Visual Art
Skálanes
Fjarðará
Vestdalsvatn
Stafdalur Ski Station
Seyðisfjarðarkirkja
Vestdalur
Monument to Þorbjörn Arnoddsson

Things to do in Iceland in January

Visit a beautiful natural ice cave
Relax in the geothermal pool
Participate in thrilling adventure sports such as snowmobiling, etc
Snorkelling between the two tectonic plates at Silfra with the help of dry suits
Trekking across Europe’s largest Glaciers and witnessing some mind-blowing views
Watch the mesmerising Northern Lights
Drive along the magnificent Ring Road
Visit Thingvellir National Park,
Admire the spectacular Gullfoss Waterfall
Visit museums at Reykjavik
Walk along an unusual and popular beach – Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Go on the tasty Reykjavík Food Tour
Discover the famous Golden Circle and don’t forget to click a lot of pictures

Major Festivals in Iceland in January

Dates	Festivals
1 January	New Year’s Day
6 January	The thirteenth day of Christmas is celebrated with bonfires and fireworks in Iceland
25–29 January	Dark Music Days, Reykjavík (contemporary music festival)
28 January- 6 February	Reykjavík International Games
Mid-January–mid-February	Þorri (old Norse calendar)

Frequently Asked Questions For Iceland in January

What is the temperature in Iceland in January?

The average temperature in Iceland in January is around -1°C (31°F). January is a winter month making a great opportunity for travellers to explore Iceland without any crowd, with great airfares, offering thrilling winter activities and so much more.

What should I do in Iceland in January?

There are plenty of things to do in Iceland to have a memorable vacation-
1. Relax in the geothermal pool
2. Participate in thrilling adventure sports such as snowmobiling, etc
3. Snorkelling between the two tectonic plates at Silfra with the help of dry suits
4. Trekking across Europe’s largest Glaciers and witnessing some mind-blowing views
5. Watch the mesmerising Northern Lights
6. Drive along the magnificent Ring Road

Which places should I visit in Iceland in January to have a great trip?

You can visit Reykjavik, Vik and Seydisfjordur to have a great trip without getting bored.

Visit Iceland to explore the mesmerising natural attractions and have a lifetime experience. Check out Pickyourtrail to have the best Iceland travel packages on great deals. You can also customise your Iceland itinerary on your own and create a trip just as you want, amazing isn’t it? Stop thinking and book a lovely vacation with your loved ones.