Húsavík is a harbor town in the north of Iceland, known as the whale-watching capital of Europe. During summer, the Skjálfandi Bay attracts countless whales, making it a prime reason to visit this northern destination. But what about visiting Húsavík in winter? While many restaurants and shops are closed, this colorful town still offers plenty to enjoy in the colder months. From relaxing in the geothermal baths at GeoSea to exploring interesting museums and strolling along the charming harbor; visiting Húsavík in winter is still a great idea.
GeoSea: relax in geothermal seawater
One of the most beautifully located geothermal baths in North Iceland is found in Húsavík: GeoSea Geothermal Sea Baths. From this bath, you have a spectacular view of the Skjálfandi Fjord. With a bit of luck, you may even see whales swimming by in the distance! The warm water (between 38 and 40°C) allows for complete relaxation, while the minerals in the water are beneficial for your skin. Tip: purchase your tickets via GetYourGuide instead of the official website, as we saved at least 5 euros per ticket this way.
Dive into the history of Húsavík, museums and culture
If you want to learn more about the region, Húsavík offers some interesting museums. The Húsavík Whale Museum is a must for marine mammal enthusiasts. Here, you can discover everything about the whales that inhabit the bay, especially in the summer months. You can also see impressive skeletons of these gigantic creatures. At the Culture House Museum, you can explore the history and culture of North Iceland. Be sure to check the websites for current opening hours, as they differ in winter compared to summer.
Walk through the streets of Húsavík along colorful houses
Húsavík is a city full of character, with its brightly colored wooden houses and the iconic red-and-white Húsavíkurkirkja. A walk through the streets of Húsavík is even more special in winter: the combination of colorful buildings and a layer of snow creates a fairytale-like setting. Be sure to stop by Gamli Skólinn Húsavík, a former school building now serving as accommodation for visitors. Didn’t bring enough warm clothing? Pop into the beautiful Icewear store in Húsavík. You’re sure to find something great to wear!
Take a look at the harbor of Húsavík
Be sure to take a stroll around the harbor as well. Especially in winter, the harbor looks stunning. Some boats appear to be frozen in the water, surrounded by ice; a truly wintery scene! The Gamli Baukur restaurant immediately catches the eye. Made entirely of wood, it offers a view of the harbor. Inside, certain areas feel more like a museum than a restaurant, with walls covered in maritime artifacts that were once used in shipping.
Note: Many places in Húsavík are closed during the winter months
I visit Húsavík at the end of January and it’s noticeable that a lot of places are closed. Restaurants and coffee shops that you read about online as being open are closed. A staff member at the Icewear store tells us that most restaurant owners work hard all year and earn well, so they spend December and January on the Canary Islands. Most places reopen in mid-February. Additionally, there are a few restaurants that remain open, but only on certain days of the week and for just a few hours.
Tip for winter in Húsavík: self-catering accommodation
If you still want to stay in Húsavík during the winter, I would definitely recommend opting for self-catering accommodation. A cozy cabin or apartment with a kitchenette, allowing you to shop at the local supermarket and prepare your own meals. Gamli Skólinn Húsavík (see photo below) is one of the places where you can stay in a self-catering setting.
Winter activities in and around Húsavík:
Although whale watching in the summer is the highlight, there are also adventurous activities to enjoy in Húsavík during the winter:
- Northern Lights hunting: Húsavík and northern Iceland are among the best places to see the Northern Lights. You can book a special tour, but I think it’s a waste of money. Just take the car and head out on your own to find a dark, clear spot.
- Horseback riding: Discover Icelandic nature, perhaps best on an Icelandic horse, known for its smooth gaits and winter hardiness.
- Skiing: Húsavík has a 0.7-kilometer slope with one lift. So yes, you can still grab your skis! For larger ski resorts, you’ll have to head to Akureyri and the Tröllaskagi Peninsula.
- Superjeep tour: If you’re feeling adventurous, a superjeep tour through the snowy wilderness is the perfect way to experience the rugged nature.
Day trips in the area around Húsavík
The surroundings of Húsavík offer many remarkable destinations. From stunning natural wonders to unique winter activities, these excursions and activities are definitely worth your time.
- Mývatn: About a 1-hour drive from Húsavík, Mývatn offers activities like dog sledding, snowshoeing, horseback riding, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing during the winter.
- Námafjall Hverir: A short drive from Mývatn brings you to this geothermal area, where you can explore the unique landscape.
- Dimmuborgir: A 1-hour drive from Húsavík will take you to these bizarre lava fields, which, according to local folklore, are home to the Yule Lads (Icelandic Christmas figures).
- Dettifoss waterfall: The roads to this waterfall are closed in winter, but with an organized superjeep tour, you can still visit the impressive waterfall.
- Ásbyrgi Canyon: A horseshoe-shaped canyon east of Húsavík, surrounded by steep cliffs and a mystical forest. It’s about a 1-hour drive.
- Arctic Henge: About a 2-hour drive takes you to this impressive stone monument in Raufarhöfn, inspired by Norse mythology and designed as a modern sundial.
Húsavík in winter is definitely worth a visit
While Húsavík may not be as lively in winter as in the summer, the city still has a unique charm during the cold season. The peace and the winter landscape make it a great destination for those who want to experience pure Iceland. Dress warmly, bring your camera and enjoy!
