Halloween might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a trip to Iceland. But with its dark autumn evenings, mysterious lava fields, ancient folklore, and stories of trolls and ghosts, Iceland is a fitting destination for a spooky October adventure.
Although Halloween is a relatively new celebration in Iceland, it has become increasingly popular, especially among children and younger generations. You’ll find Halloween decorations, costume parties, and themed events around Reykjavík and other towns.
But Iceland has its own spooky traditions that go back much further than Halloween.
If you’re visiting Iceland in October, here’s everything you need to know about Halloween in Iceland, local folklore, and some interesting places to explore by rental car.
Does Iceland Celebrate Halloween?
Yes! Halloween is celebrated in Iceland on October 31, although it is not a traditional Icelandic holiday or a public holiday.
Over the past few decades, Halloween has become more popular, particularly through American movies, television, and social media.
Today, you may come across:
- Halloween parties at bars and clubs in Reykjavík
- Costume events and activities for children
- Halloween decorations in shops and restaurants
- Pumpkin carving and spooky decorations
- Trick-or-treating in some neighbourhoods
However, Halloween celebrations are generally smaller than those in the United States or Canada.
If you’re travelling to Iceland during Halloween, Reykjavík is a good place to look for themed events and celebrations.
Iceland’s Own Costume Tradition: Öskudagur
Did you know Iceland already has a tradition where children dress up in costumes and collect sweets?
It’s called Öskudagur, or Ash Wednesday.
Unlike Halloween, Öskudagur takes place in February or March, depending on the date of Easter.
On this day, Icelandic children dress in costumes and visit shops and businesses, where they sing songs in exchange for sweets.
Although the tradition is different from Halloween, both celebrations share a love of costumes and candy.
For visitors interested in Icelandic culture, Öskudagur is an interesting example of how Iceland has its own traditions alongside newer international celebrations.
Spooky Icelandic Folklore: Trolls, Ghosts and Hidden People
Long before Halloween arrived in Iceland, Icelanders were telling stories about mysterious creatures, supernatural beings, and unexplained events.
These stories are deeply connected to Iceland’s landscapes, including mountains, caves, waterfalls, and lava fields.
Trolls in Iceland
Trolls are among the best-known creatures in Icelandic folklore.
According to traditional stories, trolls often live in mountains and caves and must avoid sunlight. If caught outside when the sun rises, they turn to stone.
Some unusual rock formations around Iceland are associated with legends about trolls.
One famous example is Reynisdrangar, the towering sea stacks near Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach on Iceland’s South Coast.
Local folklore connects these formations to trolls that were caught by the rising sun.
Hidden People and Elves
Icelandic folklore also includes stories about huldufólk, or hidden people.
These mysterious beings are traditionally associated with rocks, hills, and lava formations.
One well-known location connected to elf folklore is Álfaborg, or Elf Rock, in Borgarfjörður Eystri in East Iceland.
Visitors can explore the surrounding landscape while learning about the stories associated with the area.
Ghost Stories in Iceland
Iceland also has a long history of ghost stories.
Traditional Icelandic ghost tales often feature haunted farms, mysterious travellers, and supernatural encounters in remote locations.
These stories were passed down through generations and remain an interesting part of Icelandic cultural history.
If you’re interested in Iceland’s darker side, exploring local folklore can add another dimension to your October road trip.
5 Spooky Places to Visit in Iceland by Car
You don’t need a haunted house to experience Iceland’s mysterious atmosphere.
Across the country, you’ll find unusual landscapes and locations connected to fascinating stories.
Here are five places worth adding to your Iceland road trip itinerary.
1. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – South Iceland
Reynisfjara is one of Iceland’s most famous black sand beaches, located near the village of Vík.
With its black volcanic sand, basalt columns, and towering sea stacks, the beach is a fascinating place to visit in October.
The Reynisdrangar sea stacks are associated with local legends about trolls turning to stone.
Driving from Reykjavík: Approximately 2.5–3 hours.
Rental car tip: Reynisfjara is accessible by paved roads. A 4×4 rental can be useful for an October South Coast road trip, depending on the weather and your itinerary.
Safety tip: Reynisfjara is known for dangerous sneaker waves. Always follow local warning signs and stay well away from the water.
2. Dimmuborgir Lava Formations – North Iceland
Dimmuborgir, meaning Dark Castles, is a remarkable lava field near Lake Mývatn in North Iceland.
Its unusual rock formations, caves, and towering lava structures create a landscape that looks like something from a fantasy movie.
Dimmuborgir is also associated with Icelandic folklore, including stories about trolls and the Icelandic Yule Lads.
Visitors can follow marked walking trails through the lava formations.
Driving from Akureyri: Approximately 1–1.5 hours.
Rental car tip: If you’re exploring North Iceland in October, consider a 4×4 rental for additional traction on potentially icy or snowy roads.
3. Snæfellsjökull National Park – West Iceland
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is known for its volcanic landscapes, dramatic coastline, lava fields, and glacier-covered volcano.
Snæfellsjökull has inspired stories and literature for generations, including Jules Verne’s famous novel Journey to the Centre of the Earth.
The surrounding national park offers plenty of interesting places to explore, including coastal cliffs, lava formations, and black sand beaches.
Driving from Reykjavík: Approximately 2.5–3 hours to the national park area.
Rental car tip: A 4×4 can be a practical option for an October trip around Snæfellsnes, especially if winter weather arrives early.
4. Gunnuhver Hot Springs – Reykjanes Peninsula
Gunnuhver is a geothermal area on the Reykjanes Peninsula, known for its powerful steam vents and bubbling mud pools.
The area takes its name from Gunna, a ghost from a local legend who was said to haunt the surrounding area.
According to the story, Gunna was eventually trapped in the geothermal hot spring.
Today, visitors can explore designated viewing areas and learn about the geothermal activity.
Driving from Reykjavík: Approximately 1 hour.
Rental car tip: Gunnuhver can be included in a Reykjanes Peninsula road trip. Check current access restrictions before visiting, as volcanic and geothermal activity can affect access.
5. Ásbyrgi Canyon – North Iceland
Ásbyrgi is a large horseshoe-shaped canyon in North Iceland, surrounded by impressive cliffs and woodland.
According to Norse mythology, the canyon was formed by a hoofprint from Sleipnir, Odin’s eight-legged horse.
The canyon is part of Vatnajökull National Park and offers several walking trails.
Driving from Akureyri: Approximately 2–2.5 hours, depending on the route.
Rental car tip: Road access can be affected by autumn and winter weather. Check road information before travelling and choose a suitable vehicle for your planned route.
What Is Halloween Weather Like in Iceland?
If you’re visiting Iceland for Halloween, remember that October is part of the autumn-to-winter transition.
Temperatures are generally cool, daylight hours are getting shorter, and some areas may already experience snow or ice.
Here’s what to expect:
| October travel factor | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Temperature | Often around 0–7°C in Reykjavík |
| Daylight | Around 8 hours near the end of October |
| Weather | Rain, wind, and possible snow or ice |
| Northern lights | Possible when skies are dark and clear |
| Road access | Main roads generally remain open, but temporary closures can occur |
| F-roads | Generally closed for the season |
If you’re planning a self-drive trip in October, it’s important to check the latest weather forecast and road information before setting off.
You can find updates at umferdin.is and en.vedur.is.
Do You Need a 4×4 Rental Car in Iceland for Halloween?
Not every October trip to Iceland requires a 4×4, but renting one can be a sensible option depending on your itinerary.
If you’re staying around Reykjavík or exploring nearby attractions on paved roads, a standard rental car may be suitable when weather permits.
However, if you’re planning to visit North Iceland, Snæfellsnes, or other areas where snow and ice may occur, a 4×4 rental can provide better traction.
Some practical 4×4 options for an Iceland road trip include:
- Dacia Duster 4×4: An affordable choice for travellers who want a practical SUV.
- Hyundai Tucson 4×4: A useful option for travellers who prefer an automatic SUV with luggage space.
- Kia Sportage 4×4: A practical SUV for longer road trips, subject to the drivetrain of the specific rental model.
Remember that 4×4 vehicles do not eliminate the risks of icy roads, strong winds, or poor visibility. Always drive according to the weather and road conditions.
For October travel, Iceland’s F-roads are generally closed, and driving off-road is illegal.
Can You See the Northern Lights on Halloween in Iceland?
Yes! Late October falls within Iceland’s northern lights season, which generally runs from September to April.
With longer nights, Halloween can be a good time to look for the aurora borealis.
However, northern lights sightings are never guaranteed. You’ll need suitable solar activity, clear skies, and a dark viewing location.
If you’re staying in Reykjavík, you can consider travelling outside the city to areas with less artificial light.
Popular locations include Þingvellir National Park and parts of the Reykjanes Peninsula, where access is permitted.
Check the Icelandic Met Office aurora forecast before heading out.
If you’re searching for the northern lights with a rental car, plan your route in advance, use designated parking areas, and avoid stopping on the roadside.
FAQs About Halloween in Iceland
- Is Halloween a public holiday in Iceland?
No. Halloween takes place on October 31, but it is not an official public holiday in Iceland. Shops, restaurants, and attractions generally operate according to their usual schedules.
- Do children go trick-or-treating in Iceland?
Some children participate in trick-or-treating, particularly in neighbourhoods where Halloween is celebrated. However, Iceland’s traditional costume-and-candy celebration is Öskudagur, which takes place earlier in the year.
- Is Reykjavík a good place to celebrate Halloween?
Yes. Reykjavík is one of the best places in Iceland to look for Halloween-themed parties, costume events, and seasonal activities. Check local event listings for the latest information.
- Is October a good time to visit Iceland?
October can be a great time to visit Iceland if you want autumn landscapes, fewer daylight hours for northern lights viewing, and opportunities to explore popular attractions outside the peak summer season.
However, visitors should prepare for cold temperatures, strong winds, and possible snow.
- Can you drive around Iceland in October?
Yes, you can travel around Iceland by rental car in October, although the weather may affect your itinerary. Some parts of the Ring Road can experience snow and ice, especially in North and East Iceland.
A 4×4 rental may be useful for longer journeys, but always check the latest road information.
- What are the best spooky places to visit in Iceland?
Some interesting locations include Dimmuborgir, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, Gunnuhver, Snæfellsjökull National Park, and Ásbyrgi Canyon. These places are connected to Icelandic folklore, mythology, or unusual natural landscapes.
Explore Iceland This Halloween with Thrifty Iceland
Halloween in Iceland is more than costumes and candy. It’s an opportunity to discover Icelandic folklore, explore unusual volcanic landscapes, and experience the country during the darker autumn season.
Whether you’re visiting the troll-inspired rock formations at Reynisfjara, exploring Dimmuborgir in North Iceland, or searching for the northern lights, an October road trip offers plenty of interesting experiences.
Planning to explore Iceland by car this Halloween?
Book your Iceland car rental with Thrifty Iceland and discover our affordable 4×4 rental options for your autumn adventure.