Reykjavík transforms into a Christmasy city of shining lights every December, with sparkling decorations, festive streets, and cozy corners perfect for holiday photos. Whether you're exploring downtown or wandering into the surrounding areas, here are the most photogenic Christmas spots in Reykjavík and nearby towns — all must-visit locations for capturing the magic of the season.

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1. Rainbow Street & Laugavegur: Iconic Lights and Decorations

The famous Rainbow Street leading up to Hallgrímskirkja becomes even more magical at Christmas. Laugavegur, Reykjavík’s main shopping street, shines with twinkling lights, festive shop windows, and colorful installations. And keep your eyes open — you never know when a troll might cross your path (we’ve actually met one!).

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2. Kolaportið Flea Market

A classic Reykjavík spot full of local charm. During the holidays, Kolaportið becomes Jólaportið, a cozy indoor Christmas market and vintage flea-market stop filled with Icelandic treats, unique gifts, and that warm festive atmosphere perfect for candid seasonal photos — complete with a beautiful Christmas tree and plenty of sparkling lights.

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3. Austurvöllur Christmas Market & the Oslo Christmas Tree

Right in front of Parliament, the square glows with festive spirit and tons of Christmas lights. The traditional Oslo Christmas tree stands proudly at the center, creating a classic holiday backdrop filled with Nordic charm. You’ll also find small Christmas markets selling local handicrafts — and a must-stop for 2025 is the iconic vintage van wrapped in Christmas lights and selling delicious roasted almonds.

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4. Jólakötturinn: The Christmas Cat

Standing proudly at Lækjartorg, the giant glowing Christmas Cat is one of the city’s favorite photo spots. Playful, slightly spooky, and very Icelandic — perfect for night shots.

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5. Reykjavík Christmas Village in Hafnarfjörður

Just a short drive from the city center, Hafnarfjörður hosts a beautifully decorated Christmas Village filled with stalls, lights, music, and elves. It’s one of the coziest spots for festive portraits and market photos.

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6. Laugardalur: The Valley of Lights

This area becomes a glowing wonderland in December, with illuminated paths, sculptures, and peaceful winter scenes. Ideal for atmospheric long-exposure and nighttime shots.

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7. Hafnarfjörður Hellisgerði Park

Another gem in Hafnarfjörður — a magical light park perfect for dreamy holiday photos. Trees and walkways are covered in glowing decorations that feel straight out of a fairytale.

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8. Ice Skating at Ingólfstorg

The square becomes a lively Christmas hub with a skating rink, lights, music, and small stalls. It’s the perfect place to capture motion, fun moments, and urban Christmas vibes.

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9. Árbær Open Air Museum

Step back in time with historical Icelandic houses decorated for the season. With snow on the rooftops and warm lights inside, this location offers the most authentic old-Iceland Christmas imagery.

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10. Heiðmörk Christmas Market

Surrounded by forest and nature, the Heiðmörk weekend market is peaceful, rustic, and full of charm. Perfect for capturing Icelandic countryside holidays — wreaths, trees, and handmade crafts included.

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11. Christmas Forest at Reykjavík City Hall

Right by the lake, the Christmas Forest brings together beautifully decorated trees curated by local schools and organizations. It’s playful, colorful, and great for family-friendly Christmas shots.

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12. Kópavogsþingstaður

Kópavogur’s historic stone hill becomes a beautifully lit Christmas spot each winter. Calm, atmospheric, and overlooking the town — a hidden gem for festive photography.

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13. Tjörnin Lake

On freezing winter days, Tjörnin transforms into one of Reykjavík’s most magical Christmas spots. When the ice is thick enough, the lake becomes accessible for skating, playful winter fun, and kids gliding across the surface. Surrounded by festive lights and historic buildings, it’s a dreamy photo location and a truly local winter experience.

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