Hunt for the Northern Lights in Iceland this winter
The Northern Lights is a stunning natural phenomenon, and this winter is set to be an ideal time to see them. Solar activity is currently at a peak, so your chances of experiencing a breathtaking auroral display are higher than ever. Iceland is a prime location to do so.
As well as the aurora borealis, the country has erupting geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, and glacier lagoons to discover. Book a 2-night city break with Icelandair Holidays from £247 per person. This deal includes flights, accommodation, breakfast, and checked luggage. Read on to learn more about the experiences you can only get in ‘the land of fire and ice’.
Explore the colourful capital of Reykjavík
Reykjavík is only a 3-hour flight away, on Iceland’s west coast. Take in incredible views of multi-coloured rooftops from Hallgrímskirkja church and visit Faxaflói bay, surrounded by mountains, volcanoes, and harbour islands. Explore this beautiful city with one of Icelandair Holidays' expert local guides. The walking tours are two and a half hours long, with an average group size of six people. These tours are guided by a local, knowledgeable English-speaking guide and start from £32 per person.
Small group tours to see the lights
Following an 11-year solar cycle we are near a solar maximum, which greatly increases the chances of strong auroras. November–March gives the highest chance for a truly spectacular display. Icelandair Holidays' Northern Lights tours are organised for the late evening and take you to the best viewing spots. Tours start from £94 per person, and last approximately 3-4 hours. Northern Light sightings aren't guaranteed. The good news is if you don't get to see them on the tour you will be offered to join another Northern Lights tour for free the following evening (subject to availability).
A natural spectacular of shooting geysers
This famous 190-mile sightseeing route covers some of the country's most iconic natural and historical landmarks. Visit the spectacular Geysir geothermal area, home to the famous Strokkur geyser. It erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water up to 30 metres (98 ft) in the air. Head to the Gullfoss waterfall (Golden Falls), one of Iceland's most awe-inspiring waterfalls. And discover Þingvellir National Park (Thingvellir), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Icelandair Holidays' Golden Circle tour takes you to all three of these beautiful attractions. Tours range from £79 per person and include bus transportation, an English-speaking guide, and admission to the Friðheimar cultivation centre.
Take a dip in a steamy geothermal spa
Laugarás Lagoon is a brand-new geothermal wellness facility which opened in October, 2025. It is in southern Iceland on the scenic banks of the Hvítá river in the Golden Circle. The milky-blue water is rich in silica, minerals, and algae, which have beneficial effects on the skin. Temperatures average between 37–40°C. Facilities include a cold plunge pool, two saunas which are nestled at the forest's edge with views over the river and surrounding landscape. There's also a cascading waterfall which links the two levels, making it the first lagoon of its kind in Iceland. The tour includes admission to Laugarás Lagoon (for as long as you like). Choose between a standard or premium admission. Or, upgrade to the wellness experience which includes a drink at the swim-up bar, plus a 2-course meal at Ylja Restaurant.
Eat and drink like a Viking
Icelandic cuisine is deeply rooted in the country's history and geography. It is shaped by long winters, and a reliance on preservation methods like fermenting, drying, and curing. Sample traditional Icelandic food on an Icelandair Holidays' Reykjavík Food Lovers tour. Stroll about the old Reykjavík city centre and discover what the Vikings ate and cooked. You'll taste at least 10 different traditional foods and learn about local traditions from your expert guide. From £93 per person, why not try smoked puffin or fermented shark, then wash it down with some Viking ale?
Ready to go?
Delicious food, impressive landscapes, and a variety of tours make Reykjavík a fantastic winter getaway. Book a 2-night city break with Icelandair Holidays from £247 per person. This deal includes flights, accommodation, breakfast, and checked luggage. Why not add one of the above excursions too? Book Icelandair Holidays' Golden Circle tour and Laugarás Lagoon tour from £80 per person. Book by 17 November.