New Year Celebration Itinerary in Iceland: Experiencing Reykjavik & Akureyri

Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland on December 30, 2024

10:00AM

Explore Reykjavik City Center

I will start my journey by exploring the vibrant streets of Reykjavik, visiting landmarks such as Hallgrímskirkja and Harpa.
Walking around the city center to soak in the lively atmosphere.
ISK 0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Icelandic Street Food

I will enjoy traditional Icelandic dishes served in a cozy atmosphere at this beloved eatery.
Located near the city center.
ISK 2,500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Sun Voyager

I will take a leisurely stroll to the Sun Voyager, soaking in the stunning views of the waterfront.
A 15-minute walk from the restaurant.
ISK 0, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at the Blue Lagoon (Advance Booking Recommended)

I will treat myself to a rejuvenating soak in the famous geothermal waters at the Blue Lagoon.
Taking a pre-booked transfer from Reykjavik.
ISK 8,000, 3 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: New Year's Eve Preparations

Reykjavik, Iceland on December 31, 2024

8:00AM

Visit the National Museum of Iceland

I will learn about Icelandic history through engaging exhibitions at the National Museum.
I will walk or take a bus to the museum.
ISK 1,500, 2 hours

10:30AM

Coffee Break at Kaffitár

I will take a break with a nice cup of coffee at a local favorite café.
Close to the museum.
ISK 700, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur

I will indulge in a classic Icelandic hot dog at this famed street food stand.
Located near the harbor.
ISK 1,200, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Harpa Concert Hall

I will admire the stunning architecture and check for any New Year events.
A 10-minute walk from the lunch spot.
ISK 0, 1 hour

2:30PM

New Year’s Eve Dinner Prep at Grand Hotel Reykjavik

I will get ready for the evening by enjoying a festive dinner at my hotel.
Dining at the Grand Hotel.
ISK 8,000, 2 hours

5:00PM

Evening Stroll and Fireworks Viewing Spot

I will find the perfect vantage point for watching the fireworks while enjoying the warm atmosphere.
Walking to Hallgrímskirkja for a perfect viewing spot.
ISK 0, 1 hour

9:00PM

New Year’s Eve Party

I will join the vibrant crowd to celebrate New Year’s Eve, filled with music, laughter, and excitement as we countdown.
Hallgrímskirkja and around the city center.
ISK 0, 4 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Recovery and Relaxation

Reykjavik, Iceland on January 1, 2025

10:00AM

Sleep In!

After a night of celebration, I will enjoy a leisurely day, catching up on sleep.
At my hotel.
ISK 0, Varies

1:00PM

Brunch at Café Paris

I will indulge in a relaxed brunch with delicious pastries and coffee while recalling my New Year’s moments.
Downtown Reykjavik.
ISK 2,500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Settlement Exhibition

I will explore archaeological exhibits showcasing Reykjavik's early history.
A walk from the café.
ISK 1,500, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Kopar

I will savor a cozy dinner focused on fresh seafood while enjoying the harbor view.
Located near the waterfront.
ISK 5,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Travel to Akureyri

Akureyri, Iceland on January 2, 2025

8:00AM

Bus to Akureyri

I will travel north to Akureyri, enjoying spectacular landscapes along the way.
Departing from Reykjavik bus terminal.
ISK 5,000, 5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Café Ilmur in Akureyri

I will relish healthy Icelandic dishes at this charming café.
Located in central Akureyri.
ISK 2,500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Stroll through Akureyri Botanical Garden

I will explore the carefully curated gardens while enjoying the cool winter air.
A short walk from the café.
ISK 0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Akureyri Church

I will admire the architectural beauty and breathtaking views from this iconic church.
Walking distance from the botanical garden.
ISK 0, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Strikið

I will enjoy a flavorful dinner featuring local ingredients and stunning fjord views.
Located in the city center.
ISK 5,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Adventure in Akureyri

Akureyri, Iceland on January 3, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at my accommodation

I will enjoy a hearty breakfast at my hotel to start my day right.
At my hotel.
ISK 0, 1 hour

8:30AM

Whale Watching Tour

I will embark on an exciting whale-watching adventure to explore the rich marine life of the fjord.
Tour departure from Akureyri harbor.
ISK 10,000, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Rub23

I will dig into fresh seafood with a touch of Asian flavors at this trendy locale.
Located down by the harbor.
ISK 4,500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Akureyri Art Museum

I will explore nuances of contemporary Nordic art at this local museum.
A short walk from the lunch spot.
ISK 1,500, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Vör Kitchen & Bar

I will enjoy an exquisite dinner featuring locally sourced dishes in a warm and inviting ambiance.
Conveniently located in the area.
ISK 4,500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Cultural Experience in Akureyri

Akureyri, Iceland on January 4, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at my hotel

I will prepare for the day with a satisfying breakfast to keep my energy high.
At Grand Hotel Akureyri.
ISK 0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Laufás Turf Houses

I will take a short trip to this cultural site, witnessing traditional Icelandic turf houses.
Taking a bus or taxi from Akureyri center.
ISK 1,700, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Súlur

I will enjoy homemade soup and pastries, perfect for a cozy afternoon.
Return to Akureyri center.
ISK 2,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Mývatn Nature Baths

I will travel to Mývatn for a relaxing soak in the thermal waters amidst stunning landscapes.
I will buy a bus ticket for transportation.
ISK 6,000, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Akureyri Fish & Chips

I will enjoy a casual dinner of classic fish and chips to end the day.
Located centrally.
ISK 2,500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Return to Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland on January 5, 2025

9:00AM

Bus to Reykjavik

I will travel back to the capital, taking in the beautiful scenery along the way.
Departing from Akureyri bus terminal.
ISK 5,000, 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at DILL

I will indulge in Nordic culinary delights crafted from local ingredients at this Michelin-starred restaurant.
Located downtown Reykjavik.
ISK 6,000, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Perlan

I will explore the unique exhibits and enjoy breathtaking views from the observatory.
A short taxi ride from DILL.
ISK 3,000, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Celebrate with a Traditional Icelandic Dinner

At my hotel, I will experience a festive meal featuring traditional New Year's dishes.
Dining at Grand Hotel Reykjavik.
ISK 8,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Relax and Recover

Reykjavik, Iceland on January 6, 2025

10:00AM

Sleep In!

I will recover from the celebrations and enjoy a leisurely morning.
At my hotel.
ISK 0, Varies

1:00PM

Brunch at Café Paris

I will relish a relaxed brunch with pastries and refreshing coffee to kickstart my day.
Located downtown.
ISK 2,500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Settlement Exhibition

I will delve into Reykjavik’s rich history through interactive displays.
A quick walk from the café.
ISK 1,500, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Tapas Barinn

I will try various Icelandic tapas dishes and share a taste of Iceland’s culinary diversity with locals.
Close to the city center.
ISK 5,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Adventure on the South Coast

Reykjavik, Iceland on January 7, 2025

8:00AM

Day Trip to the South Coast

I will join a guided tour of the stunning South Coast, visiting Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls.
Transportation included in the tour package.
ISK 12,000, 10 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Snaps Bistro

Back in Reykjavik, I will enjoy a delightful dinner at Snaps, known for its lively atmosphere and great dishes.
Located near my hotel.
ISK 4,500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Farewell Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland on January 8, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

I will have my final breakfast in Reykjavik, cherishing the views and memories.
At Grand Hotel Reykjavik.
ISK 0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Last-Minute Shopping

I will pick up souvenirs and gifts from local shops in the city center.
Walking around Laugavegur street.
ISK 5,000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Prikið

I will have a casual lunch at Reykjavik’s oldest café, renowned for its flavorful burgers.
A quick walk from shopping areas.
ISK 2,200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Farewell at Tjörnin Lake

I will spend some quiet moments by Tjörnin Lake, reflecting on my Icelandic adventure.
Walking from my lunch spot.
ISK 0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Departure from Reykjavik

I will say goodbye to beautiful Iceland and head to the airport for my flight home.
Taking a bus or taxi to the airport.
ISK 3,000, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability