New Year in Reykjavik

New Year in the northernmost capital of the world
Reykjavik, Iceland © Siggeir Magnus Hafsteinsson/Iceland Travel

New Year's Eve festivities in Reykjavík are celebrated with a big bang, as the fireworks explode and the night sky is lit up with a brilliant show. New Year's Eve in the world's most northern capital city is an extraordinary experience - there are no official firework displays and this legendary night is very much the creation of the people of Reykjavik, who collectively do an amazing job with pyrotechnics and celebrations! Traditionally Icelanders start the evening with a festive family dinner, followed by a trip to a local bonfire (brenna) where they meet up and celebrate with neighbours. Just before midnight a brilliant display of fireworks is unleashed, and the arctic night lights up! The nightclubs and pubs then stay open as the celebrations go on well into the morning!

Itinerary

30 December Reykjavik Arrival

Coach transfer from Keflavik Airport to your hotel in Reykjavik. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore. Enjoy a stroll down Laugavegur and Skolavordur streets, check out the downtown harbour village, or visit one of the many geothermal swimming pools in the area.The city centre is a small area characterised by eclectic and colourful houses, good shopping, dining and drinking. Reykjavík has recently established itself as a haven for food lovers, with numerous restaurants taking advantage of the abundance of local seafood, meat and game. Tonight perhpas add an optional search for the Northern Lights! 3 nights accommodation in Reykjavik.

31 December City Exploration, Traditions & Folklore, Fireworks & New Year Dinner

Breakfast at your hotel. Then explore Reykjavik with a local guide and learn about the special traditions and Icelandic folklore related to the magical New Year's Eve in Iceland. The first stop is to purchase some fireworks, which are sold through the Icelandic Rescue Teams. Each year on December 31st, Icelanders light up over 600 tonnes of fireworks - nearly 2kg per inhabitant! 

Then it's off to Hafnarfjordur, "The Town in the Lava" famous for its elf population. Visit an elf stone, but keep in mind that the mystical "hidden people" roam freely on New Year's Eve! Then we light our own bonfire, to give a toast to life and love and say farewell to the passing year in traditional Icelandic fashion! Later, enjoy a celebratory New Year's dinner at the hotel. Optional: upgrade to Grand NYE Dinner Program with 5 courses, selected wines, entertainment host and live music. Visit one of the largest bonfires in Iceland.

01 January Day at leisure or optional excursions

Perhaps sleep in and relax after a late night, or enjoy one of the great optional excursions available. These include visiting the Golden Circle, journeying along the South Coast, bathe at the Blue Lagoon and many more - please ask.

02 January Reykjavik Departure

Coach transfer to Keflavik Airport and end of arrangements.

Departure: 30 December 2021

Notes:

This package is offered with accommodation at CenterHotel Arnarhvoll 3* or Grand Hotel Reykjavik 4*

Tour Overview

  • Summary

    New Year in the northernmost capital of the world

  • Tour Category

    Christmas & New Year, Independent, Northern Lights

  • Duration

    4 days

    Departures

    30 Dec 2021

Tour Prices

    • Double pp from:

      $ AUD

      Single from:

      $ AUD

    • Prices shown are for CenterHotel Arnarhvoll 3*

      INCLUDES: return airport coach transfers, 3 nights accommodation including breakfast; guided walking & coach tour of folklore and New Year's traditions in Reykjavik; New Year's Eve festive dinner.

      EXCLUDES: optional upgrade to Grand NYE Dinner Program (5 courses + selected wines) with Bonfire tour; optional excursions

    • Double pp from:

      $ AUD

      Single from:

      $ AUD

    • Prices shown are for Grand Hotel Reykjavik 4*

      INCLUDES: return airport coach transfers, 3 nights accommodation including breakfast; guided walking & coach tour of folklore and New Year's traditions in Reykjavik; New Year's Eve festive dinner buffet, live music, midnight canapes and midnight sparkling wine.

      EXCLUDES: optional upgrade to Grand NYE Dinner Program (5 courses + selected wines) with Bonfire tour; optional excursions

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