Reykjavík Hallgrímskirkja church illuminated in winter magic
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Christmas Markets in Reykjavík

6 MarketsIceland

Christmas markets in Reykjavík

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Weather

Climate averages and forecast for Reykjavík

9-Day Forecast

Updated daily from MET Norway

Sun
Nov 30
Cloudy
38°F
31°F
0.1 in
Mon
Dec 1
Cloudy
38°F
36°F
0.2 in
Tue
Dec 2
Cloudy
38°F
30°F
0 in
Wed
Dec 3
Fair
36°F
26°F
Thu
Dec 4
Clear sky
34°F
24°F
Fri
Dec 5
Clear sky
29°F
21°F
Sat
Dec 6
Partly cloudy
34°F
24°F
0 in
Sun
Dec 7
Cloudy
36°F
25°F
0.1 in
Mon
Dec 8
Partly cloudy
41°F
36°F
0 in

Typical Winter Weather

30-year average climate data for November through January

Typical Winter Weather
30-year average temperatures for Reykjavík
Month
Average
High
Average
Low
Average Monthly
Precipitation
Average Daily
Sunshine
November40°F32°F3.4 in1.3h
December38°F29°F3.8 in0.4h
January38°F29°F3.4 in0.7h
Weather forecast from MET Norway (CC BY 4.0)|Climate data: Source Meteostat (CC BY-NC 4.0, modified: avg temp calculated, unit conversion)

Experience Reykjavík

Watch videos showcasing the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere

6 Must-See Icelandic Christmas Markets in Reykjavík

6 Must-See Icelandic Christmas Markets in Reykjavík

if you want to delve into Icelandic Christmas culture when you visit Iceland in December, then I recommend visiting Christmas Markets. Here are 6 in the Reykjavík Capital area that are fun but know that there are way more popping up all over. Christmas Markets I visited in this video: - Austurvöllur Christmas Market - Hafnarfjörður Christmas Village - Heiðmörk Elliðavatnsbær Christmas Market - Hjartatorg Christmas Market - Mama Reykjavík Christmas Market - Saman at the Reykjavik Art Museum Whi

The Top 9 Christmas Activities to do in Reykjavik, Iceland

The Top 9 Christmas Activities to do in Reykjavik, Iceland

Are you planning to visit Reykjavík, Iceland during the Christmas season? Get ready to experience the magic of Icelandic Christmas activities in the heart of the capital! This video will guide you through the top festive things to do in Reykjavík that will make your holiday unforgettable. From exploring Reykjavík Christmas Markets to discovering Iceland's unique holiday traditions, there’s something for everyone. Start your adventure by strolling through the charming Christmas markets, where yo

Reykjavík Christmas: A Magical Winter Stroll Through Iceland's Capital City

Reykjavík Christmas: A Magical Winter Stroll Through Iceland's Capital City

Vlog #160. The evening of Þorláksmessa (Mass of St. Thorlakur), the 23rd of December, is the last day of shopping before christmas in Iceland, and traditionally shops are open long into the evening. Crowds of people gather downtown Reykjavík for last minute purchases, to grab a drink, and to possibly run into friends and relatives and give them holiday wishes. I went on a little stroll tonight, and wanted to share the vibe with you. ------------ Check out my google map of all locations featured

Discover Reykjavík

Explore the magical atmosphere of Reykjavík's Christmas markets

Reykjavík Hallgrímskirkja church illuminated in winter magic
Dorde Drazic|Pexels License

Plan Your Visit to Reykjavík

Getting There

Keflavík International Airport, located approximately 50 kilometers southwest of the capital, serves as Iceland's primary gateway for international flights. Airport shuttle buses and private transfers connect to central Reykjavík in about 45 minutes. The city center is compact and walkable, with most attractions accessible on foot or via the local bus network.

Where to Stay

The city center around Laugavegur, the main shopping street, places visitors within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and cultural sites. The Old Harbour area offers a maritime atmosphere with museums and waterfront dining nearby. Neighborhoods near Hallgrímskirkja provide a quieter residential character while remaining centrally located.

Other Attractions

Hallgrímskirkja church dominates the skyline with a tower offering panoramic views across the city. The Harpa Concert Hall features a distinctive glass facade and hosts performances year-round. The National Museum of Iceland and the open-air museum at Árbær provide insight into the country's heritage and traditional life. Reykjavík's food scene emphasizes Icelandic ingredients including fresh seafood and lamb. The city serves as a base for excursions to the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, and northern lights viewing during winter months.

History & Culture

Reykjavík's origins trace to 874 CE when Norse settler Ingólfur Arnarson established a farm at the site, naming it for steam rising from geothermal springs. The settlement remained modest for centuries until Danish merchants established a trading post in the 18th century. Reykjavík became Iceland's administrative center and grew through the 19th century as the independence movement strengthened. The city was officially designated Iceland's capital in 1845, and Iceland achieved full independence in 1944. Despite its small size, Reykjavík has developed a distinctive cultural identity blending Norse heritage with modern Nordic design. The city's character reflects resilience shaped by the island's dramatic landscape and extended winter darkness. Traditional celebrations mark the winter season, honoring customs rooted in both Viking heritage and Christian traditions introduced centuries ago.

6 markets • Sorted by popularity

Austurvöllur Christmas Market

Austurvöllur Square
Free Entry
Ice SkatingFamily FriendlyLocal VendorsHandmade OrnamentsHistoric Location

A traditional Christmas market in the public square Austurvollur in central Reykjavik. Features handmade crafts, seasonal foods, and local gifts in decorated wooden stalls with twinkling lights and festive music. The square is also home to the famous Oslo Christmas tree, a gift from Norway that has been a tradition for over half a century.

Ice Skating at Ingólfstorg Square

Ingólfstorg Square
Free Entry
Ice SkatingFamily FriendlyHistoric LocationFood CourtFree Entry

A man-made ice rink in the heart of downtown Reykjavik surrounded by Alpine-like wooden huts decorated with Christmas lights. Features Christmas music, roasted almonds, street food, and festive atmosphere. The market extends through connecting Austurstraeti Street and Austurvollur Square.

Christmas Forest in City Hall

Reykjavík City Hall
Free Entry
Family FriendlyHistoric LocationIndoor SectionFree Entry

A festive indoor Christmas experience in the Tjarnarsalur hall (The Lake Room) at Reykjavik City Hall, which is transformed into a fantastical Christmas forest each December. Different local artists are commissioned each year to create a beautiful festive space. The location offers an enchanting view of Tjörnin Lake and provides a nice indoor option during cold weather.

Christmas Market at Hjartartorg

Hjartartorg Square
Free Entry
Live MusicFamily FriendlyLocal VendorsFood CourtTraditional

A Christmas market accessible from Laugavegur Street in downtown Reykjavik. Features a wide selection of vendors with small goods, delicious food, and other Christmas items for sale. The market is held on select weekends during the Advent season.

Christmas Valley in Laugardalur

Laugardalur
Free Entry
Ice SkatingPet FriendlySanta VisitsFamily FriendlyPetting Zoo

A festive area in Laugardalur park decorated with beautiful Christmas lights throughout the valley, making it a great place for a walk during the dark December days. Features Christmasland with a colorful carousel operating Friday to Sunday from 5 PM to 8 PM. Nearby attractions include the Reykjavik Botanical Garden and Reykjavik Family Park and Zoo.

Christmas Market at Elliðavatnsbær in Heiðmörk

Heiðmörk
Free Entry
Family FriendlyLocal VendorsHandmade OrnamentsFood CourtTraditional

An annual Christmas market in the beautiful Heiðmörk nature reserve and woods on the outskirts of Reykjavik, about 15 minutes from the city. Features live music, readings from Icelandic authors, children's entertainment, local handicrafts, and a sustainable Christmas tree sale where 50 trees are planted for every one sold. The woodland setting offers a tranquil atmosphere and potential Northern Lights viewing.

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Discover 6 magical Christmas markets in the heart of Iceland