Winter Escape to Iceland: Four Days of Northern Lights & City Vibes

Fly into Keflavík International Airport (KEF) and pick up your 4x4 SUV for your winter adventure. Check out of the ION after a nice last breakfast and drive to Reykjavik. Return your rental car and check into The Reykjavik EDITION, a luxurious hotel blending Icelandic minimalism with modern comfort. The hotel offers a serene spa with geothermal-inspired treatments, a rooftop bar with sweeping harbor views and multiple dining options, including TIDES, a Michelin-recommended dinner spot, and a café that serves the best pastries in the morning (you must have the chocolate croissant — I repeat, you must have the chocolate croissant!).

After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, embark on a self-guided exploration of the Golden Circle. Begin at Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Visit Öxarárfoss waterfall and walk the Almannagjá gorge for breathtaking views. For lunch, stop at Efstidalur, a charming farm-to-table restaurant offering homemade ice cream, fresh cheese and several juicy burgers. Next, head to Gullfoss, Iceland’s most famous waterfall, where water cascades dramatically into a canyon. Continue to Geysir Geothermal Area to witness Strokkur geyser erupt every few minutes. For dinner, stop at Friðheimar, a unique greenhouse restaurant serving tomato-based dishes in a lush, warm setting – try the tomato soup and homemade bread for a cozy winter meal.

In the evening, relax in the hot pool outside. If you're lucky, you can watch the Northern Lights illuminate the sky from the comfort of the warm water while sipping a glass of champagne. The hotel also offers tours that focus on chasing the aurora, which are led by local experts and have a great success rate during nights of solar activity.

Check out of the ION after a nice last breakfast and drive to Reykjavik. Return your rental car and check into The Reykjavik EDITION, a luxurious hotel blending Icelandic minimalism with modern comfort. The hotel offers a serene spa with geothermal-inspired treatments. There is a rooftop bar with sweeping harbor views and multiple dining options. This includes TIDES, a Michelin-recommended dinner spot and a cafe that serves the best pastries in the morning (you must have the chocolate croissant. I repeat, you must have the chocolate croissant!).

After you settle into your Harbor View Suite and enjoy your welcome amenity, brave the cold and explore the area around the hotel. The harbor offers breathtaking views of the mountains in the not-too-far distance.

For dinner, experience Nordic fine dining at TIDES, known for its seasonal Icelandic cuisine. Later, head to Mat Bar, a stylish cocktail bar perfect for sampling local spirits and expertly crafted drinks.

Spend the day exploring Reykjavik’s vibrant culture. Walk Rainbow Street, visit the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church and grab a hot dog at the famous Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur stand. For local shopping, browse Laugavegur Street for Icelandic sweaters and unique gifts. Stop by Gallery Grásteinn, a contemporary art gallery showcasing a dynamic range of local and international artists. Visit the Kiki Queer Bar and 22 Bar for a great cocktail at Iceland's only dedicated LGBTQ bar.

In the afternoon, hop in your pre-arranged private car and head to Sky Lagoon, a luxurious geothermal spa just outside the city. The 7-step Ritual offers a hot spring soak, cold plunge, sauna, steam room and body scrub for ultimate relaxation. It's an absolute indulgence and unforgettable experience floating in the warm lagoon water while watching the sunset behind snow-covered mountains. Just beautiful.

End your adventure with dinner at one of Reykjavik's cozy food halls, such as Hlemmur Mathöll or Grandi Mathöll. Both offer a variety of Icelandic and global cuisine options just steps from your hotel.