Wondering what to do on the New Year’s Eve in Iceland?
Reykjavik is a place of beauty and culture. It is the perfect destination for New Year’s Eve. The city has a lot to offer with its stunning views, delicious food, and unique culture. In this article, we will tell you about some of the things that you can do in Reykjavik on New Year’s Eve.
1. Bonfire Tour
A bonfire tour is a great way to get a feel for New Year’s Eve’s spirit.
The tour is led by a guide who will tell you about the history of this tradition, which dates back to when Icelanders were still pagan and celebrated Yule (the winter solstice) at home. After converting to Christianity in the 10th century, they had to find an alternative place for their celebrations—and so began the tradition of building bonfires on Christmas Eve and lighting them around midnight. See your info.
The tour itself lasts about two hours and ends with a traditional song that’s sung around midnight as everyone gathers around their own fire pit dressed in warm clothes, hats, and scarves. It’s not only fun but educational too!
Interested in a shared bus Bon Fire tour? See here.
2. Northern Lights
If you’re a fan of travel photography, you’ll want to set your alarm early on New Year’s Eve. The Northern Lights are one of Iceland’s most popular attractions and can be seen at any time between late September through March.
However, if you’re lucky enough to catch these beautiful lights in action, there are some things you should know before heading out. The best views of the Northern Lights are found on clear nights when the sky is dark and free from light pollution—so if possible, try not to stay near cities or towns during your visit! If that isn’t an option for you (or even if it is), don’t worry—there are plenty of places where you’ll still be able to get a good view of them. See our Northern Lights tour selection.
3. Fireworks Show
You’ve come to the right place. Reykjavik is famous for its New Year’s Eve fireworks show, and you won’t want to miss this one. The show starts at 11:00 pm on December 31st, and it’s held at two different locations—Hallgrímskirkja church and Perlan (a geothermal dome). Both locations are within walking distance from each other, so you can see both if you’re feeling ambitious! The culmination of the firework show is of course at midnight.
4. Hallgrimskirkja Church
Visit the Hallgrimskirkja Church: One of the most beautiful churches in Iceland is located in Reykjavik. You can enjoy breathtaking views from the top of this church and get great photos for your Instagram feed too. For opening hours, check Hallgrimskirkja’s website.
5. Bars and restaurants
The best thing about New Year’s Eve in Reykjavik is that you can celebrate in any way you want. For example, if you want to go out and party, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs open for a long time – some of them until 5 am. The list of the restaurants open on New Year’s Eve can be found on our Christmas restaurant list.
6. Go to a Swimming Pool
Most people connect swimming pools with an active sport. This is not the case in Iceland. Over here most people go to swimming pools for socializing and relaxation. There are two swimming pools located in the city center area: Sundhöll Reykjavik, Laugardalslaug, and Vesturbæjarlaug. On weekdays they are open from 6:30 am and from 8 am during the weekends. Swimsuits and towels can be rented out on the spot.
7. Visit Perlan
Perlan is one of the most beautiful landmarks of Reykjavik, situated on Öskuhlið hill. At the moment it hosts a permanent exhibition of the natural wonders of Iceland. You will have a chance to learn about volcanoes, tectonic plates, glaciers, earthquakes, and geothermal activity. The highlight of the exhibition without a doubt is the artificial ice cave and the Northern Lights show which can be seen there all year round.
The exhibition is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. To get there from the city center, you can catch a public bus Line 18, or take a cab.
8. Sky Lagoon Spa
On 29th April 2021 new spa opened up in the capital area of Reykjavik called Sky Lagoon with all-black surroundings, this place makes you feel as if you were in a miracle. If you decide to go there, we recommend trying their 7-step ritual ceremony.
9. Visiting different museums around Reykjavik
It might be a great opportunity to visit museums that you should not miss out on in Reykjavik, further information can find here.
We’re so excited to share our list of the best things to do in Reykjavik on New Year’s Eve. There are tons of amazing activities, concerts, and celebrations happening all over the city, not just at Harpa. Whether you’re looking for a big party with thousands of people or something more intimate with just your group of friends, we hope this guide helped you find what will make this year one for the record books!
10. Reykjavík Celebration Tour at See
Experience the thrill of Reykjavik’s New Year Celebration – a truly unparalleled festivity filled with joy, warmth, and a sparkling spectacle like no other! With tantalizing local cuisine, heartwarming bonfires, invigorating parties, and breathtaking fireworks displays, Reykjavik knows how to welcome the New Year with a bang!
