New Year Celebration Itinerary in Iceland: My Reykjavik & Akureyri Adventure

Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland on December 30, 2024

1:00PM

Check-in at Grand Hotel Reykjavik

I will check-in and set down my luggage, getting ready to explore the city.
Located conveniently in the city center.
ISK 0, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Reykjavik City Center

I will begin my Icelandic adventure by strolling through the colorful streets of Reykjavik, admiring its vibrant architecture and culture.
I will walk around the city center, visiting major attractions like Hallgrímskirkja and Harpa.
ISK 0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Sun Voyager

I will take a picturesque walk to the iconic Sun Voyager sculpture, a dreamboat that doubles as a symbol of hope.
A 15-minute walk from the city center.
ISK 0, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Icelandic Street Food

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

7:00PM

Relax at the Blue Lagoon (Advance Booking Recommended)

I will unwind in the famous thermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, a perfect way to relax after a day of exploring.
I will book a bus transfer or shuttle from Reykjavik.
ISK 8,000, 3 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Golden Circle Tour

Reykjavik, Iceland on December 31, 2024

8:00AM

Golden Circle Tour

I will embark on a guided tour of Iceland's famous Golden Circle, visiting Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss waterfall.
I will join a tour that includes transportation.
ISK 15,000, 8 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Grillmarkaðurinn

I will enjoy locally sourced Icelandic cuisine with a modern twist in one of Reykjavik’s top restaurants.
Conveniently located in the city center.
ISK 4,500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Reykjavik, Iceland on January 1, 2025

9:00AM

Visit the National Museum of Iceland

I will discover Iceland's history and culture through engaging exhibitions ranging from the Vikings to contemporary times.
I will take a bus or walk to the museum.
ISK 1,500, 2 hours

11:00AM

Coffee Break at Kaffitár

I will enjoy a refreshing coffee at this popular local café, perfect for a quick recharge.
Located nearby the museum.
ISK 700, 30 minutes

1:00PM

Lunch at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur

I will try the famous Icelandic hot dogs from this iconic street food stand.
Located near the harbor.
ISK 1,200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Harpa Concert Hall

I will marvel at the stunning architecture of Harpa and check if there are any events happening during my visit.
I will walk 10 minutes from the lunch spot.
ISK 0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Fiskmarkaðurinn

I will indulge in an exquisite seafood dinner in a stylish setting, known for its fresh catch and creative dishes.
Located in downtown Reykjavik.
ISK 6,000, 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 the beautiful scenery along the way.
I will catch a bus from the main bus terminal in Reykjavik.
ISK 5,000, 5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Café Ilmur

I will relax with a healthy lunch at this cozy café known for its soups and sandwiches.
Located in central Akureyri.
ISK 2,500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Akureyri Botanical Garden

I will stroll through the beautiful botanical garden, featuring a variety of Arctic plants.
A short walk from the café.
ISK 0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Akureyri Church

I will admire the stunning architecture of Akureyri’s church, with beautiful stained glass windows.
I will walk 10 minutes from the botanical garden.
ISK 0, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Strikið

I will enjoy a fantastic dinner overlooking the fjord, serving fresh local ingredients and international dishes.
Located in the town 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 fuel up with a hearty breakfast before an adventurous day.
At my hotel.
ISK 0, 1 hour

8:30AM

Whale Watching Tour

I will embark on a thrilling whale watching tour to catch sight of the majestic creatures in the fjord.
Tour begins from the Akureyri harbor.
ISK 10,000, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Rub23

I will enjoy a fresh seafood meal with Asian flavors at this trendy restaurant.
Located down by the harbor.
ISK 4,500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Akureyri Art Museum

I will explore contemporary Nordic and Icelandic art at the museum.
A 15-minute walk from the restaurant.
ISK 1,500, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Vör Kitchen & Bar

I will cap off my day with a delightful dinner featuring locally sourced dishes in a beautiful ambiance.
Located in the same area.
ISK 4,500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Relaxation and Culture

Akureyri, Iceland on January 4, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

I will prepare for the day with a satisfying breakfast to fuel my winter adventure.
At Grand Hotel Akureyri.
ISK 0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Laufás Turf Houses

I will take a short trip to see traditional Icelandic turf houses and learn about local history.
A 30-minute bus ride from Akureyri.
ISK 1,700, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Súlur

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

3:00PM

Hot Springs Visit at Mývatn Nature Baths

I will travel to the beautiful Mývatn Nature Baths for a rejuvenating soak in thermal waters.
I will purchase a bus ticket for the trip.
ISK 6,000, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Akureyri Fish & Chips

I will enjoy classic fish and chips in a relaxed setting, perfect after a day of exploration.
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 make my way back to the capital city, enjoying the scenic landscapes along the way.
I will catch the bus from Akureyri bus terminal.
ISK 5,000, 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at DILL

I will savor a delicious Nordic meal crafted from the freshest ingredients at Michelin-starred DILL.
Located in downtown Reykjavik.
ISK 6,000, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Perlan

I will explore Perlan, which boasts a 360-degree observation deck with stunning panoramic views of Reykjavik.
A short taxi ride from DILL.
ISK 3,000, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

New Year's Eve Dinner at the Grand Hotel Reykjavik

I will celebrate New Year’s Eve with a festive dinner at my hotel, enjoying traditional Icelandic dishes.
Dining at the Grand Hotel.
ISK 8,000, 2 hours

9:00PM

Fireworks Show

I will head out to find a spot to watch the famous Reykjavik fireworks show at midnight.
I will look for popular spots in the city, like Hallgrímskirkja.
ISK 0, 3 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Recover and Explore

Reykjavik, Iceland on January 6, 2025

10:00AM

Sleep In!

I will recover from the New Year celebrations and enjoy a leisurely morning.
At my hotel.
ISK 0, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Brunch at Café Paris

I will indulge in a relaxed brunch with delicious pastries and coffee.
Located downtown.
ISK 2,500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Settlement Exhibition

I will explore fascinating archaeological exhibits about Reykjavik's early settlers.
I will walk from the café to the exhibition.
ISK 1,500, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Tapas Barinn

I will enjoy a unique dining experience sampling various Icelandic tapas dishes to share.
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 exploring the breathtaking South Coast, with stops including Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls.
Transportation included in the tour package.
ISK 12,000, 10 hours

7:00PM

Return to Reykjavik for Dinner

Back in the city, I will enjoy dinner at Snaps Bistro, a charming place with a relaxed vibe and fantastic dishes.
Located near the hotel.
ISK 4,500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Final Day in Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland on January 8, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

I will enjoy my last breakfast in Reykjavik, taking in the beautiful views before packing.
At Grand Hotel Reykjavik.
ISK 0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Last Minute Shopping

I will pick up souvenirs and last-minute gifts at local shops in the city center.
I will walk around Laugavegur street.
ISK 5,000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Prikið

I will relish a casual lunch at Reykjavik’s oldest café known for its burgers and local vibe.
A short walk from shopping areas.
ISK 2,200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Farewell at Tjörnin Lake

I will spend some relaxing moments by Tjörnin, enjoying the peaceful surroundings before my departure.
I will walk from my lunch spot.
ISK 0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Departure from Reykjavik

I will say goodbye to Iceland as I head to the airport for departure.
I will take a bus or taxi to the airport.
ISK 3,000, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability