Iceland keeps many of its own traditions when it comes to public celebrations and while international holidays like Valentine’s Day and Halloween have become more popular in recent years, Icelanders still celebrate romance in their own unique way.
If you are planning a romantic getaway, Iceland is a fantastic choice. From dramatic landscapes to cozy city cafés, geothermal spas, and winter wonders, love here is tied closely to nature, seasons and tradition.
Valentine’s Day in Iceland: is it Celebrated?
Yes, Valentine’s Day is celebrated in Iceland, but it is not a traditional Icelandic holiday.
February 14th has become more popular in recent years, especially in Reykjavík and other larger towns. You will see Valentine’s Day offers at restaurants, hotels, flower shops and spas and many couples choose to go out for a romantic dinner or book a short getaway.
However, Valentine’s Day does not have deep cultural roots in Iceland. Traditionally, Icelanders celebrate romance through Bóndadagur (Men’s Day) in January and Konudagur (Women’s Day) in February, which come from the Old Norse calendar and focus on celebrating each partner separately.
Today, many Icelanders acknowledge both:
- Valentine’s Day as a modern, international celebration
- Bóndadagur and Konudagur as traditional Icelandic “Valentine’s Days”
This mix of old traditions and modern influences makes Valentine’s Day in Iceland unique.
Icelandic Valentine’s Day Traditions
Instead of one Valentine’s Day, Iceland has two romantic celebration days, each focusing on one partner and welcoming the changing seasons.
Men’s Day (Bóndadagur) – Iceland’s Valentine’s Day for Men
Bóndadagur usually falls in late January and marks the first day of the Old Norse month of Þorri
Traditional Origins of Bóndadagur
Historically, the day was meant to welcome Þorri into the household. According to tradition, the husband would:
- Wear only shirt and one trouser leg
- Step outside the house
- Hop on one foot as a symbolic greeting the season
While this ritual is rarely practiced today, the meaning remains.
How Bóndadagur is Celebrated Today
Today, Bóndadagur is similar to a Valentine’s Day focused on men:
- Husbands and boyfriends receive flowers
- Special meals are prepared
- Thoughtful gifts and attention are the norm
Women’s Day (Konudagur) – Iceland’s Valentine’s Day for Women
Konudagur usually takes place in late February and marks the first day of the Old Norse month of Góa.
The Meaning Behind Konudagur
Traditionally, the husband would go out lightly dressed to welcome Góa, often to a barn or outdoor space. This custom slowly faded as work patterns changed.
Modern Konudagur Celebrations
Today, Konudagur is a day when:
- Girlfriends and wives are pampered
- Flowers and gifts are expected
- Couples celebrate love and appreciation
Together, Bóndadagur and Konudagur reflect a balanced approach to romance, celebrating each partner individually while welcoming the changing seasons.
Romantic Things to Do in Iceland for Valentine’s Day
Whether you are visiting in February or celebrating one of Iceland’s traditional love days, Iceland offers unforgettable romantic experiences.
Visit the Blue Lagoon Together
Soaking in the warm, milky-blue waters of the Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s traditional love days, Iceland offers unforgettable romantic experiences. Surrounded by lava fields and geothermal steam, it is perfect for relaxation and quiet moments together.
Many couples choose:
- In-water drinks
- Face masks
- Couples’ massages
Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially in winter.
Chase the Northern Lights as a Couple
Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland is often described as a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Some of the best places for couples include:
- Þingvellir National Park
- Quiet spots outside Reykjavík
- Remote countryside areas with minimal light pollution
Bring warm layers, a thermos with hot chocolate, and enjoy one of nature’s most romantic displays.
Related reading: How to See the Northern Lights in Iceland with a car?; Your Questions About Iceland’s Northern Lights Answered
Enjoy a Cozy Romantic Stay in Reykjavík
Reykjavík is full of charm and intimacy, especially in winter, with cozy cafés, walkable streets and plenty of places to enjoy a quiet evening together.
Romantic Hotels in Reykjavík
If you are planning a Valentine’s trip to Iceland, choosing the right hotel can make a big difference. Reykjavík offers a wide range of accommodation options, from cheap stays to comfortable mid-range hotels that are ideal for couples.
- Center Hotels (Plaza, Laugavegur, Arnarhvoll) – central locations, comfortable rooms, good value
- Reykjavík Lights Hotel – modern, cosy, and usually cheaper than downtown luxury hotels
- Storm Hotel by Keahotels – clean, stylish, and well-priced near Laugavegur
- Alda Hotel Reykjavík – mid-range pricing with a warm, modern feel
- Skuggi Hotel by Keahotels – minimalist design, quiet, and good value for couples
Romantic Dining in Reykjavík
A romantic dinner does not need to be expensive in Reykjavík. The city has plenty of cozy restaurants with a warm atmosphere and good food, making them perfect for a relaxed Valentine’s evening without high prices.
- Snaps Bistro Bar – cosy atmosphere, good wine selection, and reasonably priced French-style dishes
- Messinn – simple, intimate setting with excellent Icelandic fish dishes, especially for sharing
- Apótek Kitchen + Bar (early dinner) – romantic interior and good-value set menus earlier in the evening
- Old Iceland Restaurant – small, warm space with classic Icelandic food at fair prices
- Sæta Svínið – relaxed wine bar vibe with good small plates and sharing options
- Reykjavík Kitchen – casual, modern, and good quality without fine-dining prices
Strolling through Reykjavík’s colorful streets hand-in-hand adds to the to the romance.
Other Romantic Destinations Across Iceland
A romantic trip in Iceland does not need to stay in the city. Driving outside Reykjavík allows couples to experience quieter landscapes, scenic routes and more private moments together.
Couples often love:
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon with its floating icebergs
- Quiet hot springs in the countryside
- Snowy landscapes under the winter sky
Iceland offers endless possibilities for intimate moments in nature.
Quick Tips for Planning a Valentine’s Trip to Iceland
Planning ahead is important when visiting Iceland in winter. Weather conditions can change quickly and having the right clothing, bookings and flexible plan will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable Valentine’s trip.
What to Pack
- Warm thermal layers
- Waterproof outerwear
- Sturdy boots
- Swimsuit
- Hat, gloves and scarf
- Day backpack
Tip from Firefly: What to wear for winter trip to Iceland
Travel Planning Advice
- Check weather forecasts daily
- Book hotels, rental cars and experiences early
- Plan flexible driving routes
For seasonal insights, see Iceland in January and Iceland in February.
Valentine’s Day in Iceland: FAQ
- Is Valebtine’s Day widely celebrated in Iceland?
Valentine’s Day is celebrated in Iceland, especially in Reykjavík and larger towns, but it is not a traditional Icelandic holiday. Many couples go out for dinner or book short trips, while others focus on Icelandic traditions like Bóndadagur and Konudagur.
- What are Iceland’s Valentine’s Day celebrations?
Iceland traditionally celebrates romance through Bóndadagur (Men’s Day) in January and Konudagur (Women’s Day) in February. These days come from the Old Norse calendar and focus on celebrating each partner separately.
- Is Iceland a good destination for a Valentine’s trip?
Yes. Iceland is a popular choice for couples thanks to its winter scenery, geothermal spas, Northern Lights, and cosy city atmosphere. Many romantic experiences are easy to combine with a short getaway.
- Can you see the Northern Lights in February?
Yes, February is a good time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, as long as the skies are clear and there is low light pollution. Renting a car makes it easier to reach darker areas outside the city.
- Do you need a car for a romantic trip in Iceland?
While it is possible to stay in Reykjavík without a car, renting a car gives you more flexibility to visit hot springs, scenic viewpoints, and quieter Northern Lights locations at your own pace.
- Is February a good month to visit Iceland?
February is a popular winter month for visiting Iceland. It offers snowy landscapes, winter activities, and a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights, though weather conditions can be unpredictable.
Exploring Iceland by Car with Firefly
A romantic trip in Iceland is best enjoyed at your own pace. Renting a car allows you to:
- Travel without fixed tour schedules
- Reach quiet Northern Lights spots
- Discover hidden hot springs and scenic viewpoints
Firefly offers cheap car rental options, making it easier to plan a romantic Iceland trip without overspending. With reliable vehicles and convenient pick-up locations, you can focus on enjoying the journey together.
- Detailed Travel guide to driving in Iceland
Celebrating Valentine’s Day in Iceland
Valentine’s Day in Iceland is about more than one date on the calendar. Whether you follow Icelandic traditions like Bóndadagur and Konudagur or celebrate on February 14th, romance in Iceland is usually about shared experiences rather than grand gestures.
From geothermal spas and Northern Lights cozy Reykjavík evenings and scenic landscapes, Iceland offers plenty of memorable experiences for couples.
Planning a romantic getaway? Rent a car with Firefly and explore Iceland together, on your own terms.
