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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

best time to visit iceland waterfall

Best (And Worst) Time To Visit Iceland (Month By Month!)

February 19, 2022 //  by  Iceland Trippers

Deciding on the best time to visit Iceland for your needs is one of the most important parts of planning an Iceland trip. If you are unsure where to start, we have made it super easy for you by explaining what you can expect month by month.

This complete guide to the months and seasons of Iceland will fully prepare you for your trip. All of the most common questions are answered, such as when to see special things like the Northern Lights, lupine flowers, and puffins.

Planning your trip to Iceland last minute?

Make sure to book your hotels and tours in Iceland in advance to ensure availability! The longer you wait, the more difficult it gets. Here are my top picks for your trip :

Top Experiences And Tours In Iceland:

  • Golden Circle Full Day Tour From Reykjavik (Likely to sell out!)
  • Silfra Snorkeling Tour (Includes photos + only small group)
  • South Of Iceland Full Day Trip (Our pick!)
  • Whale Watching In Reykjavik (On a luxury yacht)
  • Northern Lights Bus Tour (Great to go with a local)
  • Ice Cave Tour And Glacier Hike (Likely to sell out)

Tickets You MUST book in advance:

  • Keflavik > Reykjavik Bus Airport Transfer (Skip the line!)
  • Sky Lagoon Entrance Ticket (Includes 7-step spa ritual)
  • Blue Lagoon Entry Ticket With Drink (Likely to sell out!)

Top picks for places to stay in Iceland:

  • Hotel South Coast (Great central location)
  • Grandi Reykjavik (Includes free breakfast)
  • Hotel Kria (Close to black sand beach)
  • Hotel Skaftafell (Mid-range price)

Iceland is amazing , but it is also a country that must be taken seriously. Winter in Iceland is beautiful, but you must plan accordingly if that is when you are planning to visit. However, even summer has its drawbacks.

Not to worry, we have all the information you need to check off all of your Iceland dreams. The best months to visit Iceland might depend a little bit on the season, but it depends the most on you!

Get a FREE printable “Hidden Gems In Iceland” E-book by joining our private  Iceland Facebook Group  and sharing your photos and asking for tips and tricks.

Girl in a hot spring pool next to a lake.

High and Low Seasons for Visiting Iceland

Like any popular tourist destination, Iceland has an “on” season and an “off” season. These times are otherwise referred to as high and low seasons (with the in-betweens being called shoulders).

The high season is when the majority of the tourists come to visit. This is generally due to the nice weather and ease of access. This is when most people plan their Iceland itinerary !

But just because the weather is colder in the low season does not mean you should not visit! Many people enjoy the low and shoulder seasons more because there are fewer crowds and it is cheaper, making it the best time to travel to Iceland for a lot of people.

You might be surprised to learn that there are indoor and outdoor activities for all of the seasons. Iceland is beautiful inside and out no matter when you visit.

High Season: June-August

Summer, summer, summer! This is the high season in Iceland for the obvious reasons: weather and temperature. It is undeniably the best weather to visit Iceland with much more sun and higher temperatures.

However, this is also by far the most expensive time to visit Iceland. Airfare, hotel fees, food prices–everything costs a pretty penny during the summer.

Not to mention the crowds. The high season is high season because it is when most people visit Iceland.

While the cost and the crowds are pretty big negatives, the high season has phenomenal positives as well. Especially if you are wanting to go to Iceland for the great outdoors. Most roads will be open during this time as well.

At the end of the day, it is all about your priorities. If weather and being able to spend the maximum time outside every day is your top priority, you are going to want to come to Iceland during the high season.

Sunset over Kirkjufell Mountain and Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall during summer, the best time to visit Iceland for the midnight sun.

Shoulder Season: Sept-Oct & April-May

Shoulder seasons are the traveling industry’s best-kept secret. Okay, so it is not super-secret, but it still is not something people talk about as much as they should.

We hear about the high and low seasons all the time, but not so much about the shoulder seasons. They are the very beginning and the very ending of the classic tourism season.

This means that there are still more people than in the low season, but not the huge crowds of the high season. Prices are a little higher too, but still generally reasonable.

The best part of the shoulder season is that the weather is still reasonable. It may not be as great as the high season, but still totally tolerable!

Low Season: November-March

The low season in Iceland is during the typical winter months. For a country named after ice, Iceland’s winters are not that bad!

While there are some road closures, the country is still quite explorable and traversable during the cold months. And if you are coming to see the Northern Lights, this is the time to do it!

This is also the time to come if you are on a serious budget and need to take advantage of the low season prices. Traveling does not have to empty out your bank account.

The lack of crowds makes it the best season to visit Iceland on a budget! There are some trade-offs for coming during the off-season in Iceland, but there are some definite benefits too. This is actually our favorite time to go!

As we said above, the best time to visit Iceland depends on your Iceland priorities!

A figure standing in a blue colored ice cave in winter, the best time to visit Iceland for ice caves.

Visit Iceland in Summer if You:

-Love the idea of 24-hour sunshine.  Ah, the midnight sun–you are not alone if this is on your bucket list ! If you have dreamt of Iceland’s 24-hour daylight, the summer might be the best time for you to visit.

-Are enamored with the brilliant green of summer.  Iceland starts greening back up in the spring, but summer is the best time to visit Iceland if you want to see green everywhere.

The iconic lupine flowers bloom in June and July as well, creating swatches of purple across the landscape. If you want to photograph these flowers make sure to time your trip right.

-Want the best chance to spot whales. Whale watching is a popular tour in Iceland. The magnificent beasts can be spotted offshore from April through October, but the peak time to see them is in the summer.

In summer, more species are in the area and boat tours are less likely to get canceled because of weather.

-Plan on camping. Since the weather is calmer and less unpredictable during the summer, camping in Iceland is a better option for this season. You will have the least rainfall and less wind. This is especially good if you are tent camping.

-Are not bothered by crowds. Everyone loves the gorgeous, summer Iceland scenery. And we mean everyone . Iceland is a super crowded place in summer so keep that in mind.

If you hate crowds, you can still do alright coming in the summer. You will just want to visit the less popular places in the country. They may be less popular, but Iceland is amazing no matter where you go.

-Are totally invested in the traditional sense (read: financially).  If you are not concerned about how much your trip to Iceland is going to cost, that saves you a lot of seasonal concerns.

Iceland is stunning in the summer, and we cannot blame you for wanting to visit when everything is so vibrant.

Just keep in mind that it is already expensive to travel to Iceland, let alone during the summer. During the high season, top tourist destinations and locations charge top dollar for everything.

A girl in a white dress stands in a field of lupines with Skogafoss Waterfall in the distance during summer, the best time to visit Iceland to see flowers.

Visit Iceland in Winter if You:

-Want to spot the Northern Lights.  You can see the Northern Lights in the fall, but there is a caveat. You will have to stay up until around 2 am. If staying up all night is not your vibe, then winter is the best time to go to Iceland to see the Northern Lights!

In winter, there are not many daylight hours. The sun is only up from around 11 am to 3 pm. However, the increased darkness means a better chance of spotting the Northern Lights. Around midnight is the best time to spot them, but earlier or later is possible too.

-Want to visit an ice cave. The incredibly-formed ice caves are some of the best natural features in Iceland and can only be visited in the winter. Tours are lead from November to March.

-Love a good winter wonderland.  There is just something magical about the way snow completely changes Iceland’s landscape. Many people absolutely love coming to Iceland during this time of year because of this.

If you love the beauty of winter, then it is the best time to visit Iceland! Keep in mind that snow has drawbacks since some roads will be closed.

-Want to stand out from the crowd.  While a lot of people enjoy Iceland in the winter, the number of people who go is nothing compared to the summer.

If you are looking to do something a little different and unique, winter just might be the best time for your visit to Iceland. It certainly is not a bad time!

Aerial view of the shore and mountains all covered in snow.

Visit Iceland in Fall if You:

-Do not like crowds but still want to see the Northern Lights.  Even though this is the off-season, it is prime viewing time for the Northern Lights.

This is because the weather is so nice! You do not have to freeze to see the Northern Lights, just come during the fall.

An extra bonus is that there are really not very many tourists during this time. Fall is the best time of the year to visit Iceland if you want to miss the crowds and do not mind coming when it is a little colder.

-Love fall colors. Iceland is not a country that is typically praised for its fall foliage, mostly because there are not many trees. However, what trees there are turn golden along with the grasses, to create a beautiful landscape.

-Want to experience the Iceland Airwaves music festival.  If you have not already heard about it then you might not know what a big deal the Iceland Airwaves music festival is. But if you have heard of it then you already know that it is a must-see!

It is a super popular music festival that happens each fall in Iceland. Usually, it is held sometime in November, but do an internet search to find the exact date.

If you love music, this festival is a great addition to your Iceland plans! Fall is the best time to go to Iceland to check it out!

The many streams of Hraunfossar Waterfall flowing into blue water surrounded by green and yellow foliage.

Visit Iceland in Spring if You:

-Love puffins!   Spring is the best time to visit Iceland if you want to see puffins . These adorable birds start arriving around April for their yearly nesting.

Puffins are some of the cutest birds out there, and you can find them all over! If you are coming to catch sight of or photograph them, just check in advance to make sure they will be in the area where you are going.

-Want to road trip without snow.  As we said above, some of the roads can close in the winter. Spring is the best time to come to Iceland for better weather and open roads. That melting snow also helps to make the waterfalls flow stronger.

Not to mention that the world is coming back to life in the most beautiful way! There is something about the colorful bursts of color against the gray of winter that makes spring like no other season.

Two puffins sitting on a cliff side next to white flowers.

Best Time to See Northern Lights in Iceland

If you are interested in the Northern Lights, you are interested in Iceland! While there are many different places to see the Northern Lights in the world, Iceland is hard to beat.

Especially considering that there are places where you can watch them from a hot tub! The Northern Lights In Iceland are a huge draw, and if they are the reason you are coming you are not alone!

If you are wondering what is the best month to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, there are a few choices. It is possible to see the Northern Lights any month between the end of September and the end of March.

Just like the sun is out all night during summer, the nights are very long in the winter. The closer to mid-winter you visit, the longer the night and thus the higher chance of seeing the lights.

You definitely will not be able to see them during the summer! Winter is when you should book your Iceland trip if the Northern Lights are a priority.

The dazzling pink and green colors of the Northern Lights and stars reflecting in a glacier lagoon.

Cheapest Time to Visit Iceland

Unfortunately, Iceland is one of the more expensive countries to visit. We have gone over and over because we believe the experience is worth the money .

However, there are things you can do to make your trip much less expensive. One of those things is visiting during the Iceland off-season.

If it is your goal to do Iceland without dumping a ton of cash, we absolutely recommend the shoulder seasons or winter. Visiting right before or right after the high season of summer can save you a lot of money.

If saving money is a high priority, winter is absolutely the best time to visit Iceland. And pro tip: use grocery stores to cut down on costs even more!

Girl in red skirt walks through the tide toward Stokksness during a bright, orange sunrise.

Iceland Weather Breakdown by Month

So far we have been referring to entire seasons, but we know that is kind of broad. Especially when you are planning the trip of a lifetime!

That is why we are going to break everything about Iceland Weather down month by month . This way you can know exactly what to expect.

After all, sometimes the best time to visit Iceland is simply when it best fits into your life. Whenever you make the trip, our month-by-month breakdown will help you make the most of it.

Iceland Weather in January

Happy New Year! January is a great time to visit Iceland. During this time of year you will find highs of about 36 ° F and lows of about 27 ° F.

Is that warmer than you expected? For a country named after ice, Iceland’s winters are actually quite moderate when compared with a lot of other places in the world!

That being said, January in Iceland is the coldest and windiest month. You will want to bring warm clothing and dress appropriately! Expect lots of snow and ice.

Iceland Weather in February

Honestly, the temperatures do not change much in February. What does change is the hours of daylight!

At the beginning of January, you will only get about 4 hours of daylight a day. By the end of February, this increases to about 10 hours.

February is a great month to come because there is more daylight but the crowds and costs are still at a minimum. Check out our post on things to know before you visit Iceland in February!

A snowy road heading straight towards mountains.

Iceland Weather in March

March continues with the increase in daylight hours, with about 13 hours of sunshine a day by the end of the month.

Winter weather continues in Iceland in March , although it starts sticking more to the mountaintops and less to the streets. As with most places, the weather is also better in southern Iceland than in northern Iceland.

However, it is still cold pretty much everywhere. We are getting closer to spring, but you would not really know it yet. The temperatures are still averaging between 27 ° F and 36 ° F.

Iceland Weather in April

The weather finally begins to make a bit of a change in April. Temperatures range between 32 ° F and 41 ° F during this warmer month.

What is more, there is a lot less snow! Spring starts to show its face about this time, with the country beginning to green back up again. Migratory birds start to return, including puffins.

We are also looking at around 17 hours of daylight in April as we officially move out of the low season and into the shoulder season. Don’t forget to check out this post about visiting Iceland in April!

Iceland Weather in May

May is seriously one of the best times to visit Iceland! Especially if you love the sun! The days have 20 hours or more of sunlight. It is also the driest month, with the least rainfall.

The highs are also much closer to 50 ° F, which means you almost do not even need a jacket depending on where you are from.

Of course, you will still want to bring your jackets . While the weather is much more temperate, there will still be some cold days. However, it is totally livable and the country is also becoming so much more green!

Iceland in May is also still shoulder season, which means you will not have to try so hard to find your own space while enjoying the sunshine.

Turf covered house in a field of grass.

Iceland Weather in June

Welcome to high season! While it is called the high season because it is most popular among tourists, June in Iceland is also the high season for the longest days.

If getting the most out of each day is important to you, then June is the best month to visit Iceland. You can explore for many more hours in daylight.

June nights only last for about 3 hours, beginning around 11:30 PM! Yeah, blackout curtains are a big thing in Iceland summers!

While the highs average around 52 ° F, they can get much higher than that. June is the beginning of summer, and also the beginning of real warmth.

Iceland Weather in July

Now, if you are interested in heat rather than warmth , July might be a better time to visit Iceland. It is the best time of year to visit Iceland for heat, as the hottest month of the year. It is also the least windy month.

The weather in Iceland in July is generally extremely pleasant during this time of the year. While the nights are a little longer, at about 4 hours long, they do not increase by much!

Keep in mind that “hot” does not mean the same thing in Iceland as it does in other places. The average highs are around 56°F. That is part of why it is one of the most popular times to visit because it does not get any warmer than this.

Iceland Weather in August

August is the last month of the high season. While the beginning of the month is still as warm as July, temperatures start to go down by the end of the month.

August is the best time to go to Iceland if you do not mind the crowds due to the fairly standard daylight hours. The sun sets around 9 PM and rises around 5 AM. August has the least cloudy days as well.

Do keep in mind that August in Iceland goes quickly from summer to fall. By the end of the month, the slight bite to the air will have you wishing for warm pumpkin pie and spiced apple cider.

A sunny August day at Skogafoss Waterfall with a rainbow and groups of tourists.

Iceland Weather in September

September still has great sunshine for Iceland, but it does go down to just below 12 hours by the end of the month. It is the warmest month with a chance to see the Northern Lights.

Temperatures are still quite nice, and we are back in shoulder season. This means that you can enjoy the nice weather and decent daylight hours without all the crowds of summer.

By the end of the month the likelihood of snow increases. If you visit Iceland in September , you will want to pack your warm clothing!

Iceland Weather in October

October in Iceland is still technically part of the shoulder season, but it is starting to feel much more like the low season of winter. Daylight is down to about 8 hours a day.

In addition, the average temperature is dropping back down to about 41 ° F. While it is not absolute winter yet, the weather should be taken into consideration at this point.

Bring warm clothes and waterproof ponchos. October is the wettest month in Iceland with an average of 14 days with precipitation.

Although it is colder, October is the best time to visit Iceland if you want to explore with as few crowds as possible. The roads are still open and you can still go pretty much everywhere you want.

Iceland Weather in November

Welcome to winter and the off-season in Iceland. November begins the coldest time of the year, although December and January are colder. This is when the snow starts to fully cover the island.

The average temperature is 38 ° F, but it can get much colder. Daylight only lasts about six hours.

We love to visit Iceland in the low season, and really do think it is one of the best times to visit Iceland. You just have to be prepared for the lower temperatures and the weather.

Iceland Weather in December

The last month of the year is one of the coldest months, second only to January. Temperature highs only reach about 39 ° F. It gets as cold as 21 ° F.

In addition, Iceland in December sees quite a lot of precipitation and snow. Daylight hours are generally pretty short.

However, this does make it and January the best time to visit Iceland for the Northern Lights! However, it is also the cloudiest month, meaning the lights can get obstructed.

A girl soaks in a hot spring surrounded by snow in winter, the best time to visit Iceland to beat the crowds.

Iceland Events and Activities by Month

While the weather is a big deal, sometimes it is not as important as what you can do. After all, most weather is survivable if you plan and dress accordingly.

If you are more curious about what is going on than what temperature it will be, we have you covered! We have broken down the events and activities you can do during each month of the year.

You might be surprised by some of your options, especially during the winter!

Iceland in January

Can you even go wrong with New Year’s Eve when you are celebrating in a different country? Especially Iceland!

The country takes this holiday seriously with partying on New Year’s Eve, sleeping on the first, and shopping on the second.

And then there is Christmas–that is right, Christmas extends into January in Iceland, with the last day being on the 6th. If Christmas is your favorite holiday, then the end of December and the beginning of January is definitely the best time to visit Iceland.

Another great January tradition in Iceland is Thorrablot . This pagan celebration was canceled when Iceland went Christian but has had a resurgence in the last couple of centuries.

It is a week-long celebration of an Icelandic tradition that will not disappoint. If you want to feel like a local, prepare yourself for some things you have never eaten before, like rotten shark meat, boiled sheep’s head, and congealed sheep’s blood.

Iceland in February

February is beloved for the Winter Lights Festival . As a celebration of bright and happy things, you will love the way they light the streets with brilliant fluorescence to chase the darkness of winter away.

Öskudagur is basically Icelandic Halloween. The kids dress up in great costumes, and instead of the “trick or treat” chant, sing for their candy.

The Icelandic Food and Fun Festival is a fantastic festival that celebrates Icelandic cooking. And not even the kind that uses blood and rotten shark meat! It is all about using ingredients native to Iceland and enjoying all the culinary joys the country has to offer.

Hallgrimskirkja church lit up with colorful lights during the Winter Lights Festival, one of the best times to visit Iceland.

Iceland in March

Did you know that Iceland had its own prohibition period? Beer with an alcohol level of over 2.2% was banned for the majority of the 1900s but legalized again in 1990.

Iceland celebrates this legalization with the unofficial holiday, Beer Day, on the first of March every year! We think you can probably guess what the main activities are. (Drinking beer.)

DesignMarch is similar to the Food and Fun Festival in that it is a celebration of Icelandic creativity. The event features purely Icelandic products and goods.

Continuing in a similar fashion, the Reykjavik Folk Festival honors centuries of traditional music and song.

Iceland in April

Iceland celebrates Easter for days just like Christmas. Honestly, we do not know why more countries do not do holidays like this! Celebrating with just one day is so minimal!

Easter lasts from Holy Thursday to Easter Monday in Iceland. It is generally spent with family, rather than with huge parties.

April’s other holiday is the first day of summer. Given the dark of winter and the light of summer, and the very small in-betweens, Iceland actually does not traditionally recognize spring and autumn as seasons. So summer starts in April!

View from behind Seljalandsfoss Waterfall with melting snow and grass turning green for April, the best time to visit Iceland to see the seasons change.

Iceland in May

The Reykjavik Art Festival is a big deal in May! People come from all over the world to participate in and experience creativity and fun.

If art is not your thing, May still might be the best time to visit Iceland with the Rite of Spring Festival. We know, we know, we just told you there is no spring in Iceland.

But when Iceland gave up its traditional calendar, they adopted spring and autumn into their new calendar. And they like to welcome spring with heartfelt jazz and folk music!

Iceland in June

It should come as no surprise that a country that willingly eats rotten shark meat celebrates the sea! Iceland’s Festival of the Sea happens in June, and it honors the country’s long tradition of seafaring.

Iceland also celebrates its independence from Denmark every June 17th. Like the 4th of July in the United States, Iceland National Day is a country-wide affair filled with parades, concerts, and general enjoyment of Icelandic culture.

Summer Solstice takes advantage of the Midnight Sun with all-night rock concerts. You can also join the locals in watching the sun set and rise all within the course of 2-3 hours.

Another unique Iceland festival is the International Viking Festival . It is a days-long holiday event that pays tribute to Iceland’s fierce Viking history.

Iceland in July

Innipukinn Festival is another music festival that happens in July. If you are not already getting the sense that you can hit up a music festival basically anytime you visit Iceland, well, you can. Icelandic people really love their music, okay?

They mix things up a bit with LungA , a festival specific to the Icelandic town of Seyðisfjörður . This festival still has music (as any good festival does) as well as art!

The rainbow path in Seyðisfjörður leading to the blue church .

Iceland in August

Verslunarmannahelgi–say that five times fast, we dare you! Honestly, if you can pronounce it once we will be impressed. Verslunarmannahelgi happens the first weekend of August and is a quick bank holiday (kind of like Labor Day in the US). People generally celebrate by going camping.

Gay Pride comes the second weekend of August, and nowhere celebrates it as Reykjavik does! With parades, parties, and concerts, this is truly a vibrant and fantastic event.

If you like running, (like, really like) then the third weekend of August is the best time to visit Iceland! This is when the Reykjavik Marathon occurs, and it is another event that attracts people from all over the world!

The marathon wraps up with Menningarnott , a fantastic cultural celebration with cultural events, fireworks, and you guessed it, great music!

Iceland in September

The capital city of Reykjavik has two festivals in September, making it the best time to visit Reykjavik if you are wanting to have some fun during the shoulder season.

First is the Reykjavik International Literary Festival . This one is not just a big deal to Iceland, it is actually the biggest literary festival in Northern Europe!

Next is the Reykjavik International Film Festival . There is just something about literature and film that make them go hand in hand. Both of these festivals draw people from all over the world, but especially the film festival!

White geese and ducks in the lake in Reykjavik at dusk.

Iceland in October

Iceland Airwaves is another music festival but centers on indie and alternative music rather than the traditional folk and rock music of so many other festivals. Of course, folk and rock music still abound!

Iceland also celebrates Halloween in October, although they have not been celebrating it as long as other countries and do it a little differently. It is more of an adult holiday, but still features costumes!

Iceland in November

November does not have a whole lot going on in the realm of festivals and events. What it does have, though, it makes sure to do well.

Frostbiter is Iceland’s Horror Film Festival. So while Iceland does not have much going on in November, it is still the best time to visit Iceland if you love horror!

Iceland in December

Sorry not sorry, but Iceland has the best Christmas lights. Seriously, you have to check them out! Because the country is so dark all the time in December, they go all out with the Christmas lights.

And the way they make such a contrast against the dark? Unbeatable.

Everything about Iceland Christmas is simply unbeatable. From the concerts to the food to the country’s own unique and fun traditions, you will absolutely love it.

New Year’s Eve is filled with fireworks, bonfires, and singing. There are even costumes!

And they do not wrap things up and go to bed at midnight. Iceland New Year partying lasts long into the early hours of the next day.

December is the best time of year to travel to Iceland if you love all the December holidays!

A tree with yellow Christmas lights on a snowy hillside overlooking the lights of a town.

When is the Worst Time to Visit Iceland?

Honestly, there is really no bad time of year to visit Iceland as long as you plan accordingly. After reading this article, you should have a good idea of what each month has to offer in terms of weather, natural events, and festivals.

As long as you visit when you want to and pack according to the season , you will be in Iceland at the right time.

If you want to see the Northern Lights, summer is the worst time to visit Iceland. But, if you want clear roads for your rental car and warm weather, then winter is the worst time to visit.

So, When is the Best Time to Visit Iceland?

At the end of the day, the best time to visit Iceland is 100% up to you! Whatever your interests are and your budget will determine when you should visit this amazing country.

After all, this is your trip to Iceland. Plan it around what you want to see and do.

Do you want the midnight sun and purple, lupine flowers? Come during summer. Hate crowds and overpaying, but want decent weather? Give shoulder season a try. Does your Iceland bucket list involve the Nothern Lights or ice caves? Winter is your best bet!

Iceland is gorgeous year-round, and you really cannot go wrong no matter when you visit!

Girl in yellow dress and hat sits on a cliff edge overlooking the blue water of Godafoss Waterfall.

We hope our guide to the best time to visit Iceland has been helpful! Feel free to let us know when you decide to go in the comments below. What is your favorite time to travel to Iceland?

People riding horses in Iceland in an article about the best tours in Iceland

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These Are the Best Times to Visit Iceland

Here are the best times to visit Iceland for ideal weather, fewer crowds, and whale watching.

iceland holidays best time to visit

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

iceland holidays best time to visit

Iceland's ethereal and highly photogenic landscape of ancient glaciers and rugged fjords draws in outdoorsy travelers. But what you want to see and do on your trip will determine the best times to visit Iceland. Some attractions, like the famous hot springs, are open all year, while natural phenomena like the northern lights and midnight sun are best viewed during specific months. Here's a breakdown of the tourist seasons in Iceland:

  • High Season:  June to August and late December
  • Shoulder Season:  September to mid-October and May
  • Low Season:  November to April, excluding holidays

Read on to learn about the best time to visit Iceland for whale watching, northern lights spotting, and more.

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit Iceland for Smaller Crowds

The busiest months in Iceland are June, July, and August, when most natural attractions are open and easily accessible. For fewer crowds, come in May or September to mid-October: temps are warm enough, (a daytime average of 50°F) and you'll still have ample daylight.

Iceland is least crowded in the off-season, November to April, but the days quickly get very short: November starts with nearly eight hours of daylight and ends with just five. In December, many days see barely four hours of daylight. If you don't mind the cold and can work around some road closures, it's a glorious time to enjoy hot springs, backcountry skiing, and tours by snowmobile or jeep. These are also the months when you can see the northern lights in Iceland. Tourism does tend to pick up again during the holiday season, so avoid late December if you're looking for a crowd-free vacation.

Courtesy of Visit Iceland

Best Times to Visit Iceland for Good Weather

The best time to visit Iceland and enjoy good weather is, of course, the busiest time: the summer months. The daytime temperature in Iceland in July and August hovers around 55 degrees Fahrenheit and June sees an incredible 24 hours of daylight. Even during this season, rain and intense wind are not uncommon. The island's fickle climate often means you can experience all four seasons in a single day.

The weather remains pleasant in September, and May is similar; if you want to explore some of the more remote hills and fjords, though, May is not the best time to visit, as some roads remain closed while they thaw from winter's snowy cover. For serious hikers, the best time to visit Iceland is during the summer, when all the mountain roads and famous trails are open and accessible.

Best Times to Visit Iceland for Lower Prices

While Iceland in general is fairly expensive, getting there can be relatively affordable, especially compared to other European destinations. Keep an eye out for good deals on Icelandair and low-cost airline Play .

Tours, attractions, and meal prices hold steady throughout the year, but you can save money on flights and accommodations by visiting during the off-season, which is typically late fall through early spring, excluding December. These are also the months when you can best see the northern lights in Iceland.

Best Time to Visit Iceland for the Northern Lights

You'll need darkness, clear conditions, and a surge in solar activity to see the aurora borealis. The northern lights are often elusive and can easily be marred by transient clouds. To avoid disappointment, travelers should never plan their trip to Iceland solely for the northern lights because the island's weather is too capricious (statistically, there are more clear nights in Yellowknife, Canada , for example.) The best way to optimize your chances of seeing the northern lights in Iceland is by visiting from mid-October through March — when you have extended hours of darkness — and by getting out into the countryside to reduce ambient light pollution.

Best Time to Visit Iceland for Whale Watching

According to Icelandic marine biologist Edda Elísabet Magnúsdóttir, the peak months to go whale watching in Iceland are June and July. During the summer, Reykjavík sees higher numbers of minke whales and dolphins, while orcas congregate in West Iceland along the Snaefellsnes peninsula during the first half of the year.

In northern Iceland, you'll have a wider window to enjoy visits from humpbacks, minkes, and dolphins, which ply the Atlantic from May to August; a few humpbacks even stick around until the end of the year. Blue whales pass through in the summer, too. For best results, head to the charming small town of Húsavík , where you can spot more than 20 species of whales on boat tours that leave from the harbor.

Best Time to Visit Iceland's Hot Springs

Hot springs are intrinsic to Icelandic culture for social as well as wellness benefits. Reykjavík's public pools are open year-round (and are especially invigorating during the dead of winter), but Iceland also has hundreds of hidden "hot pots" that tap directly into the geothermal activity under its lava-ridden surface.

Expert Icelandic mountaineer and cofounder of Midgard Adventure , Sigurdur Bjarni Sveinsson, offers the following advice for hot water hunters: "Check them out during September or, even better, the first half of October, when they're all still accessible by mountain road, but the crowds of tourists have significantly died down."

For travelers who want to visit the Blue Lagoon , the most famous geothermal spa, the best time to visit is during the off and shoulder seasons, when crowds are thinner.

Worst Time to Visit Iceland

Thanks to Iceland's stunning landscapes and seasonal natural phenomena, there's really no bad time to visit. Northern lights seekers flock to the country during the darker winter months, while visitors chasing more daylight opt for summer. Those traveling in the spring and fall can take advantage of more moderate weather and daylight, so the best time to visit Iceland depends on what you want to see and do during your trip.

That said, the warmest months of the year are easily the worst time to visit if you're hoping to avoid the onslaught of tourists. July and August see the highest number of travelers, with big-ticket attractions like the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, South Coast, and Jökulsárlón being particularly overrun. If you're planning to visit during that time, consider more remote corners of the island like the Westfjords or East Iceland, whose fjords, vistas, and waterfalls are just as impressive as the natural attractions surrounding the capital — if not more.

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Seljalandsfoss waterfall on Iceland's south coast is a beautiful natural wonder

When Is the Best Time to Visit Iceland? - A Comprehensive Guide for Every Month & Season

Andri Gunnar Hauksson

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Iceland?

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Kirkjufell mountain on Snaefellsnes peninsula is a great place to visit any time of the year

By understanding how each season offers distinct experiences, you'll be better equipped to plan your ideal Icelandic adventure that's tailored to your preferences and priorities. As Iceland is located in the far northern hemisphere, right at the edge of the Arctic Circle , the differences between seasons are quite dramatic.

The best time of year to visit Iceland, therefore, depends on what you most want to do. Whether you're looking to go whale watching , head to a glacier to explore an ice cave or visit the Westfjords , the time of year is key when it comes to planning your trip.

The Eastfjords of Iceland is a beautiful destination

When wondering about the best time to travel to Iceland, first, you need to make a decision on what season works best for you. Iceland's four seasons differ in not only the weather but also the number of daylight hours. Each season has its characteristics and different things to do that may not be available in other seasons.

The cliffs of Latrabjarg in the Westfjords of Iceland look beautiful in spring

Additionally, spring is an ideal time for birdwatching enthusiasts, as migratory birds, including the charming puffin, return to nest along the rugged cliffs. It's also the last chance to see the northern lights before it gets too bright. Overall, spring provides a serene and picturesque setting for exploring Iceland.

Gullfoss waterfall looks stunning during the summer

The warmer temperatures also make it a perfect season for outdoor activities such as  horseback riding  and  going on hiking tours . Summer is the peak season for the number of travelers, so expect more crowds at popular attractions. However, the opportunity to go on tours of the Highlands and indulge in various festivals celebrating Iceland's culture and history makes it a truly memorable time to visit.

Thingvellir National Park in its autumn foliage

With cooler temperatures setting in, visitors can still enjoy outdoor pursuits such as hiking and exploring geothermal hot springs without the summer crowds. Fall also brings the return of darker skies, so the chance of seeing the elusive aurora borealis returns. Visiting Iceland in the fall promises a unique blend of natural beauty, space to roam, and opportunities for unforgettable experiences.

During the winter, the Lake Tjornin in downtown Reykjavik becomes a serene place

The long nights provide ample opportunity to chase the magical northern lights or even go on a northern lights cruise , while the festive atmosphere in towns around the country allows visitors to enjoy the local Christmas celebrations and the bombastic New Year's Eve. Although the weather can be unpredictable, visiting Iceland in winter offers a unique experience that highlights the country's enchanting allure.

  • Learn more: New Year's Eve in Iceland

Because of the wide range of different activities and things to do in Iceland, it can be helpful to break down what activities are possible dependent on the time of year. Of course, there are plenty of things you can do any time of year, such as engaging in delicious food tours in the city or exploring the many waterfalls around the country (just wear layers in the winter!), but below are a few of the seasonal-dependent activities that might make or break when you'd want to visit Iceland.

The northern lights as seen above Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon

Keep in mind that while this mesmerizing phenomenon is largely dependent on solar activity and clear skies, it is also important to venture away from city lights to areas with less light pollution for the best viewing experience. Then cross your fingers and enjoy the show!

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Seljalandsfoss waterfall as the midnight sun shines one

During this time, the sun barely dips below the horizon, and daylight extends into the night as the sky turns pink and purple during a long-lasting twilight period. This provides plenty of opportunities for late-night sightseeing, photography, and  exciting midnight sun tours .

Whale watching in the town of Husavik in Iceland is an amazing experience

Photo from Original 3-Hour Whale Watching Adventure in Oak Boats

The best time to go whale watching in Iceland typically falls between April and October, with peak season occurring in the summer months of June, July, and August. During this period, the seas around Iceland become a feeding ground for multiple species of whales, resulting in a higher probability of sightings. Minke whales, humpback whales, and white-beaked dolphins are commonly sighted during these months.

However, orcas and dolphins are most commonly spotted during the winter months, specifically from February to March, when Breidafjordur bay becomes a feeding ground full of herring, which can be spotted on this Snaefellsnes whale-watching tour . You can also keep in mind that whale-watching tours are less crowded during the winter, which is another advantage.

  • Learn more: The Best Guide to Whale Watching in Iceland

Exploring an ice cave in Iceland during the winter is an unforgettable experience

Photo from Best Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull Glacier

The optimal time for ice caving in Iceland is during the colder months, typically from November to March. During this period, the temperatures drop sufficiently to freeze the glacial ice caves, making them safe and stable to explore. That's when they're at their most spectacular, with the clear blue ice illuminated by the refracturing sunlight. It's important to note that ice caving should always be undertaken with a guide on professional ice cave tours .

During the summer, most ice caves become too unstable to be visited safely, with two exceptions! You can still visit the ice cave at Katla , near the town of Vik on Iceland's south coast. Additionally, you can visit the ice cave tunnel in Langjokull , which was carved into the glacier itself.

Taking a road trip around Iceland is a great way to explore the island

However, if viewing the northern lights is on your bucket list, consider a road trip between September and March when they are visible after sunset. Be mindful that winter driving can be challenging due to unpredictable weather and shorter days, and renting a 4x4 car is crucial to stay safe. Check out the many winter self-drive tours available, which are fully customized with extensive itineraries and pre-booked accommodations around the country.

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Blue Lagoon is a warm geothermal pool that is world-renowned

However, for those seeking to view the northern lights while relaxing in the warm waters, the best time to visit is during the winter months (September to March), although keep in mind that daylight is significantly shorter during this time. Regardless of the season, this warm lagoon often gets busy, so it's advisable to book your tickets to the Blue Lagoon well in advance and try to go early in the morning or later in the evening when it's less crowded. There's also a wide variety of Blue Lagoon tours that incorporate other activities with a visit to the famous geothermal spa.

Camping in Iceland is only allowed on designated campsites

While camping in other seasons is possible, winter camping can be particularly challenging due to harsh weather conditions, limited daylight, and the closure of many campsites. Keep in mind that no matter the season, camping outside of designated camping sites is illegal, including parking rental campervans overnight.

There are hot springs around the country, both natural and man-made such as Hvammsvik Hot Springs

Photo from Admission to Hvammsvik Hot Springs near Reykjavik

Hot springs in Iceland can be enjoyed throughout the year, each season offering its unique charm. During the summer months, from June to August, the milder weather and extended daylight hours allow for more flexible planning. Visiting during the midnight sun can add an extra layer of enchantment to your hot springs experience.

However, many people find the contrast of Iceland's chilly winter temperatures and the warm geothermal waters irresistible. There's also a chance to see the northern lights while you soak, creating a truly unique experience. Just remember that access to some remote hot springs can be more difficult in winter due to harsh conditions, so make sure to always check road conditions and weather  before heading out.

River rafting in Iceland is a fun and exciting activity to be a part of

Photo from Whitewater Action in North Iceland

The ideal time for river rafting in Iceland typically falls within the summer months, from June to early September. That's when the weather is warmer and the snowmelt from the mountains feeds the rivers, creating thrilling white-water conditions ideal for rafting. If you're traveling with children, you could even embark on this 3-hour family-friendly river rafting tour in North Iceland .

Although the summer months are best, the season can start as early as May and extend into September, depending on weather conditions.

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Spotting puffins is a great way to immerse yourself in Icelandic wildlife

Also, with the summer's extended daylight hours, you have plenty of time to observe these feathered creatures in their natural habitat. Locations like the Latrabjarg cliffs in the Westfjords , Lake Myvatn in the north, and the Westman Islands are prime spots for birdwatching during this period. However, remember to respect the birds' nesting areas and observe from a safe distance to avoid causing any disturbance.

  • Learn more: Birds in Iceland

The travel seasons in Iceland change depending on the time of year

The peak season is during the summer months from June to August. This is because of the long hours of daylight, warmer weather, and the opportunity to engage in sightseeing around the country, and going on road trips on the Ring Road . The peak season shortly returns around the time of Christmas and New Year's during the last half of December into early January, as people visit to experience the festive atmosphere in Iceland during this period of the year.

The shoulder season splits in two, the first being in spring (April-May) and the second during autumn (September-October). During those periods, it's still relatively warm compared to the cold winter, and visitors can comfortably travel between attractions without much worry about snow. The days are certainly shorter than during the bright summer but still give plenty of time for sightseeing. You could even see the northern lights if conditions are right during April or October, even though it's not the prime season for aurora hunting.

Lastly, the off-peak season from November to March (minus the Christmas season!) presents the coldest weather conditions but also the greatest opportunities to see the northern lights, go glacier hiking , dog-sledding , or skiing. Note that daylight is very limited in the winter months, and certain areas may be inaccessible due to weather conditions, such as the Westfjords and the Highlands.

  • Read more: 18 Things to Do & Places to Visit in Iceland

Iceland's weather varies significantly throughout the year due to its location close to the Arctic Circle. The country experiences relatively mild but unpredictable weather. Because of its proximity to the Arctic, daylight hours swing dramatically during the year. This can be good to know when deciding when to go to Iceland.

Spring is the time of year when flowers start blooming and the weather becomes warmer by the day

Concurrently, the daylight hours rapidly increase due to Iceland's position near the Arctic Circle. In the early spring, there can be approximately 13 to 14 hours of daylight, with the sun rising around 6 AM and setting around 8 PM in April. However, by late May, daylight can extend up to 20 to 21 hours a day. This significant increase in daylight hours, coupled with the country's blossoming landscapes, marks a vibrant and exciting time to experience Iceland's unique natural beauty.

Hallgrimskirkja church in downtown Reykjavik on a beautiful summer day

During this season, the daylight hours in summer reach their peak due to Iceland's position. In the early summer months, daylight extends remarkably, offering nearly 24 hours of daylight, peaking around the summer solstice in late June. The sun barely dips below the horizon before rising again, giving birth to the mesmerizing phenomenon known as the Midnight Sun. This astonishing period of prolonged daylight paints the landscapes in a continuous golden hue and offers extended hours for exploration.

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Akureyri in North Iceland during autumn

Daylight hours begin to recede during the autumn months. At the onset of autumn in September, the length of daylight begins to align more closely with the length of night, providing approximately 12 to 13 hours of daylight, with the sun rising around 6:30 AM and setting around 7:30 PM. However, by late October, daylight hours diminish to approximately 8 to 9 hours per day, with the sun rising closer to 9 AM and setting around 5 PM. This creates an opportunity to view the northern lights when the skies are dark.

Waterfalls in Iceland take on another form during winter which is worth seeing

In terms of daylight, winter marks the period of the shortest days in Iceland due to its proximity to the Arctic Circle. By December, daylight hours can be as short as 4 to 5 hours a day, with the sun rising around 11:30 AM and setting around 3:30 PM. However, this lack of daylight also creates the best time of year to see Iceland's most iconic natural phenomenon - the aurora borealis, which lights up the winter sky with its enchanting and colorful display.

  • Learn more: Iceland's Weather, Climate and Temperature Year-Round

If you're not sure when to visit, or if you've already booked your flight and want to know what's going on when you arrive, here is a short overview for each month of the year in Iceland and what you can expect. Clicking on each of the headlines will take you to a much more detailed guide with everything you need to know about that particular month in Iceland.

The village of Vik on the south coast of Iceland during winter

Photo from Thrilling 2-Hour ATV Ride on South Coast to the DC Plane Wreck

August is the last month of pure summer bliss in Iceland, making it a great time of year for fun outdoor activities such as feeling the serenity of the water on kayaking tours , getting a rush of adrenaline while zooming across black sand beaches on ATV and buggy tours or braving the rapids of glacial rivers on epic rafting tours . If you'd prefer to take things slow and just enjoy the beauty and peacefulness of nature, go sightseeing and enjoy the many natural wonders around the country. The first weekend of August is a 3-day weekend for Icelanders, with many festivals being held around the country, the biggest one being in the Westman Islands. The festivities in August continue, with Menningarnott (Reykjavik Cultural Night) being celebrated the following weekend and Reykjavik Pride Festival the weekend after that. If you're not sure about things to do, check out our extensive selection of August tours which you can book online.

Autumn is a beautiful time of year in Iceland, especially in Thingvellir National Park

Yes, Iceland can be visited in winter. This is the best time to see the northern lights. However, keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable and daylight hours are reduced. There is a wide range of winter tours and packages in Iceland that you can explore.

The northern lights are not visible in summer due to the long daylight hours. The best time to see them is during clear, dark nights from late September to early April. For the best chance to see these elusive lights, there are a lot of northern lights tours to choose from during the winter.

Yes, the Golden Circle is open any time of the year and is conveniently located close to Reykjavik. If you're driving yourself, it's a good idea to rent a 4x4 vehicle if you're going there during the winter in case the roads are snowy. If you don't want to drive, there is a wide variety of Golden Circle tours to choose from.

During winter in Iceland, it's important to dress in layers to stay warm and comfortable. Start with thermal underwear and add layers such as a fleece jacket or wool sweater. Over this, wear a windproof and waterproof outer layer. Don't forget to wear insulated waterproof boots with good grip, as streets can become icy. Warm socks, gloves, hats, and scarves are also essential to protect against the cold.

Even in summer, weather in Iceland can be unpredictable. Pack layers, including a warm jacket, waterproof outer layer, hat, gloves, sturdy footwear, and warm socks. Don't forget your swimsuit for geothermal lagoon visits! You can read our Ultimate Guide on What to Wear in Iceland for tips about dressing appropriately any time of year.

Yes, renting a car in Iceland is a popular way to explore the country. Do note that weather conditions can make driving challenging, especially in winter. Always check road conditions and weather forecasts before setting out.

When would you most like to visit Iceland? If you have been to Iceland, what time of year did you visit? Let us know in the comments below!

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The Best Time to Visit Iceland

Skogafoss Iceland

When is the best time to visit Iceland?

Iceland is a beautiful country and one that has only grown in popularity over the past decade. The truth, however, is that the best time to visit Iceland depends on the trip you want to book.

The lure of Iceland ranges from the northern lights to its famous hot springs and incredible natural beauty.

We’ve gathered the high and low seasons, and when’s best for what so that you have an understanding of what you’ll get out of each month of the year.

High season: June to August and late December Shoulder seasons: May and September Low season: November to April, excluding school and public holidays

Gullfoss Geysir Iceland

When is the worst time to visit Iceland?

Again, this depends on what you’re looking to get out of your trip. If you want to avoid the maddening crowds, we recommend not visiting during the high season, which runs from June to August and late December.

What months are the warmest in Iceland?

June through August are the warmest months, which coincides with Iceland’s high season. You can expect lots of tourists enjoying the country; however, if you’re looking to go whale watching or enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking on those long summer days, this is the right time to visit.

When is the best time to visit Iceland for the Northern Lights?

You’re never guaranteed to see the Northern Lights , but your best bet is between November and March when the nights are long and dark. You need a clear sky, a surge in solar activity and a relatively remote location to get the best glimpse of the aurora borealis. We recommend the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, which offers an isolated position and an excellent vantage point to see the Northern Lights.

Northern Lights in Iceland

When is the best time to visit Iceland for whale watching?

The whale watching season coincides with the high season in Iceland. You can whale watch from April to September, with June through August being the best months.

When is the cheapest time to go to Iceland?

The cheapest time to visit Iceland is during the low season, which runs from November to April. There are fewer tourists too, which means flights, hotels , and any other rentals will be at a lower price point.

A version of this article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller .

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Home » Europe » Iceland » The Absolute Best Time to Visit Iceland

The Absolute Best Time to Visit Iceland

By Author Lance Longwell

Posted on Last updated: July 23, 2023

This small country has received a lot of love in the travel sphere during the last decade, and with good reason. Thanks to its stunning landscapes and ease of getting there from both North America and Europe, this is the perfect destination for trips both short and long. But when is the best time to visit Iceland?

While we’ve been visiting Iceland (and writing about it) since 2009, we don’t know if we can really claim credit for the tourism boom. What we can do, is give you expert advice based on our visits over the years during the different seasons.

The Godafoss waterfall in the winter with snow and ice at sunrise.

During your planning, if you’re not sure when to visit Iceland, this guide is for you. No doubt you have some ideas about what to do during your perfect Iceland getaway. We have broken down for you month-by-month what to expect, so you can make an informed decision on the best time of year to visit, based on your interests.

Gullfoss waterfall and rainbow in the summer

Our Recommendation:  The Best Time to Travel to Iceland

Best months to visit, the best time to go to iceland by activity, northern lights, whale watching, saving money, avoiding crowds, holidays and festivals, holidays in iceland, festivals in iceland.

We are often asked when is the best time to visit Iceland.  And while this is largely a matter of personal preference and based on your desired activities and attractions to visit , there are some general guidelines.

Iceland in the summer can be absolutely magical. The extremely long days mean you have more time for sightseeing, hiking, hot springs , whale watching, puffin watching, and about everything else under the sun. You will miss the snow, skiing, and Northern Lights, but rewarded for it in other ways.

Wooden buildings in Husavik in the summer

You will also have crowds and a lot more tourists to compete with. If you are going to Iceland in summer, head out of populated Reykjavik and spend time in the northern and eastern parts of the country, where there are fewer tourists. We recommend “shoulder season”:  May/June or September where the weather is good, but slightly fewer people.

Iceland in the winter can be like a fairy tale. Only a few hours of actual daylight mean you’ll want to pack your activities close together. But the long twilight before sunrise and sunset create magical light (and stunning sunsets). Winter in Iceland can be beautiful.

Soaking in the Geosea hot springs is a highlight of visiting Iceland in the winter

The Christmas-to-New Year period can be very busy with lots of other tourists. But early December and January/February can give you that dose of cold, snow, and Northern Lights you desire.

If you want our advice for when to visit Iceland, there’s no bad option. However, the best option is the one that fits your personal travel style and what you want to do while you are there.

This month is the coldest it will get. Ski season is usually underway by this time. The temperatures are not unbearable, however, because daytime averages are -1° C (30° F). At times, you may encounter fairly strong winds, which will make these temperatures feel colder.

During January, the average amount of sunlight is only 4 hours, although this increases to almost 7 hours by the end of the month. And if the Aurora Borealis is on your list, you are in for a treat, as this the best time to travel to Iceland to see the dancing lights.

With the number of daylight hours stretching from 7 to 10, February brings average temperatures of 0° C (30° F). This leaves adequate opportunity for exploration of the incredible scenery, and most of the attractions in the southwest part of the country are open for business –unless there is a big snowstorm.

February is the best time for skiing. This is also a good month to see the Northern Lights; just be sure to choose an evening when there is no precipitation and no cloud cover for the most optimal viewing.

Icebergs in the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon

As the days get longer, the hours of sunlight with which explore range from 10 to 13.5. However, the average temperatures remain cold, but warming ever so slightly to 0.3° C (33° F). During March, about half of the days involve precipitation, which could be rain or snow, depending on where you are in elevation.

This is the heart of ski reason, although it starts to taper off by the end of the month.  Still, you will need a 4-wheel drive to get to the more remote areas. This is also another ideal month for catching the Northern Lights on clear nights.

People hiking in Thingvellir National Park

April is where the country really begins to “heat up.” Ski season is usually over by mid-April. With average daytime temperatures at 2.8 C (37° F). This is the time of year when the country sees drier weather.

However, with the clear skies also come the end of the season to see the Northern lights. They may not be as spectacular as during the winter months, but they are still there in April. The amount of sunlight stretches to 16 hours.

With long stretches of daylight at about 18 hours per day, you will no doubt guess that this is not a good time to witness the Aurora Borealis. However, what you can enjoy are average daytime temperatures of 6.3° C (48° F) and fewer tourists.

While this is still on the chilly side, the bright side is that you have many more sunny days with which to play.

In the Northern Hemisphere, June holds the longest day of the year, and here it is 22 hours, the month of the midnight sun! Temperatures are climbing as well, with average daytime highs of 8.9° C (48° F) or even higher on sunny days. That means you can expect less wind and rain, and more sunny weather. 

The roads through the interior usually open in late-June. The waterfalls are still going strong. The number of visitors start to increase significantly.

A small turf church

With pleasant weather and long days averaging 19 hours of sunlight, summer in Iceland can be quite lovely. The average daytime temperatures hover around 10.7° C (52° F) – never too warm. There is a good chance some light rain will mix in with sunny weather.

By July, you’ll be guaranteed that the 4-wheel drive roads into the interior will be open. This is peak season and many accommodation options will be booked out. Reservations will be necessary at restaurants.

This is when summer winds down and the daylight hours shorten to about 16, but is a great time to see landmarks in Iceland . The average daytime temperature is 10.3° C (50° F), and the weather remains fairly dry. Towards the end of the month, you will start to feel a distinct chill in the air, but still plenty of daylight for exploring.

This is the best time to visit the remote interior since the roads will still be open. Many locals take camping vacations at the beginning of the month. The number of visitors are at their peak this month.

The Blue Lagoon is popular in the summer

With the coming of autumn, September sees about 13 hours of sunlight and daytime temperatures of a cool 7.5° C (46° F). The season for good Northern Lights viewing is starting to ramp up towards the end of the month. There are also fewer days of sunshine.

By mid-September, some of the 4-wheel drive roads into the interior will begin to close for the winter. It is possible to start seeing some snow in the interior or at higher elevations.

In October, daylight hours drop significantly to around 9, with average daytime temperatures hovering at 4.3° C (40° F) and great autumn colors. Even though precipitation increases during this time, clear skies bring increasing chances for seeing the Aurora Borealis after the sun goes down.

While the weather is still good, there are significantly fewer people. This is a good “shoulder season” month: good weather, fewer crowds.

Kerid Crater on the Golden Circle

This time of year, temperatures drop to a bone-chilling 1.3° C (35° F). Now, just 6 hours of average daylight temperatures are available, but even though the days are short, this is prime Northern Lights-watching season. On many days you will see light rain or snow; even fog.

Other than January, this month is the darkest of the year, with only about 4 hours of daytime light to play with. Ski season usually starts in mid-December (or early January).  The Blue Lagoon sees the fewest crowds in early December.  Average daytime temperatures linger around -0.1° C (31° F).

On the flip side, this is prime fodder for some great Northern Lights viewing, when it is not snowing or raining, that is.

Not all activities are available here all the time. Depending on what you want to do, you may need to adjust your travel plans. Here is when to go to Iceland based on what activities are popular.

Winter is the best time to visit Iceland for Northern Lights

This is one of the premiere locations on the planet to view the Northern Lights, thanks to its remote location away from any city light pollution (save for Reykjavik). The season for Northern Lights lasts from late September through mid-April, however there are conditions required to get the best view. The sky must be clear and solar flares on the surface of the sun must occur, which produces the dancing lights.

During mid-November through about mid-March is when the temperatures are at their lowest. This is the optimal time for exploring the stunning ice caves. Due to the many glaciers and volcanoes, this is ripe territory for the formation of the ice caves. Also known as the Crystal Caves, you can take an ice cave tour and go inside the glaciers. Since most ice caves are inside glaciers, it is generally not safe to visit them during the summer months.

The Svartifoss waterfall in late spring or early summer

Waterfalls mean water, so the best time to catch waterfalls at their best is during the months of late April through June (with the heaviest rainfall) or anytime during the Spring-Summer months after a heavy rainfall. Also, there will be fewer crowds during this time.

Along with the Northern Lights, this island is a world-class spot for incredible whale watching. Optimal times for catching the whales in action is mid-June through the first week of September, however sightings do happen anywhere from April through October. Tours are available at several places around the island, including Reykjavik as well as the “whale capital” of Husavik in the north.

Seeing a Minke whale in Husavik

For the most pleasant mild weather, come to Iceland during the high season of July and August. With not quite as much daylight as in June, the days are still long, with the most sunshine and chance to explore the stunning landscape and all the attractions on the island.

If you are looking to save some dollars, travel in the low season of late October through early December, and then again from mid-January through March. Avoid the holiday season as this is when prices skyrocket. However, if you’d also like the weather to be a bit warmer, the shoulder season is good: mid-May through mid-June, and September through mid-October.

If you’d prefer your visit to be relatively uncrowded, the best time to plan your trip is during the months of March, April, May and September. Many people consider the shoulder seasons of spring and fall as the best time to visit.

Having said that, the capital of Reykjavik always sees its fair share of visitors, so to simply venture away from the city to more remote areas is ideal. The west fjords, northern and the east see far fewer visitors.

Icelanders celebrate some unique holidays all their own, and also some traditional ones (in a unique way!) Here are the highlights:

Troll statues on street in Akureyri

  • New Year’s Day – 1 st of January, where most businesses are closed until the 3 rd.
  • 12 th Night – 6 January, the last day of Christmas.
  • Bóndadagur – in late January, known as ‘Husband’s Day’.
  • Thorrablót – mid-January through mid-February, a feast of traditional foods.
  • Konudagur – just after Thorrablót , this is ‘Wife’s Day’.
  • Bolludagur – two days before Lent, this is another culinary holiday known as ‘Bun Day’.
  • Sprengidagur – celebrated on Shrove Tuesday in February, another holiday where locals feast on lamb and pea soup.
  • Öskudagur – known to other Westerners as Ash Wednesday, where children dress in costume and sing in shops for sweets.
  • Iceland National Day – June 17, Independence Day.
  • Verslunarmannahelgi – the first weekend of August, where many locals go camping
  • Christmas – this a big holiday, with lots of holiday lights and events throughout the month, including special appearances by the Yule Lads.
  • New Year’s Eve – the celebrations continue, and this is the only day that fireworks are legal.

Street art mural of woman and wolves in Reykjavik

  • Winter Lights Festival – held during the first weekend in February, winter spirits are lifted with light-art installations and cultural events.
  • Food and Fun Festival – in late February in Reykjavik, chefs throughout the city celebrate with special menus and a televised competition.
  • Reykjavik Folk Festival – three days of music in early March celebrates live folk music.
  • Reykjavik Art Festival – taking place every other year in mid-May, it features a variety of national and international theater, design and dance.
  • Seafarer’s Day & Festival of the Sea – the first weekend of June honoring local fisherman.
  • International Viking Festival – the largest and oldest in the country in mid-June, celebrating all things Viking.
  • Innipukinn Festival – held in late July, this is an annual music festival with top acts.
  • Reykjavik International Film Festival – in late September, showing a wide range of films from around the world.
  • Iceland Airwaves – over 3 days in early-November, it showcases some of the country’s best alternative music .

Beautiful stone church and flag on a trip to Iceland in September

Have you visited before? What where your impressions? When is the best time to visit Iceland?

iceland holidays best time to visit

Lance Longwell is a travel writer and photographer who has published Travel Addicts since 2008, making it one of the oldest travel blogs. He is a life-long traveler, having visited all 50 of the United States by the time he graduated high school. Lance has continued his adventures by visiting 70 countries on 5 continents – all in search of the world’s perfect sausage. He’s a passionate foodie and enjoys hot springs and cultural oddities. When he’s not traveling (or writing about travel), you’ll find him photographing his hometown of Philadelphia.

The Absolute Best Time to Visit Iceland

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Thursday 22nd of June 2023

My wife and I are debating when to visit Iceland for the first time-our time is limited to either to the last week of August or the first or second week of September. We are into culture , archeology, nature and cuisine. We are not into hiking or water sports. What time frame should we travel??

Lance Longwell

Friday 23rd of June 2023

If it were me, I'd probably go the 2nd weekend in September. Slightly fewer tourists and restaurant availability will be better. There are a number of cultural events in the fall (film festival, etc.).

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Best Time to Visit Iceland: Seasons, Tips & More

  • Last Updated: December 9, 2022
  • Norbert Zohó

If you’re thinking about Iceland for your next vacation destination, you will probably also be considering when is the best time to visit Iceland. With amazing attractions and activities all throughout the year, Iceland is an awesome destination at any time. Naturally, your preferences will almost certainly play a huge part in when you visit the Land of Fire and Ice.

Iceland’s summer months see lush verdant landscapes and long, sunny days because of the famous midnight sun. In wintertime, the stunning Northern Lights dance across the dark skies. Do you prefer to see cascading waterfalls or icy landscapes?

We’ll take you through the pros and cons of visiting Iceland at different times of the year, helping you decide on the best time for your vacation. Keep readings for expert tips related to seasonal activities and experiences, and find out when is the best time for you to plan your trip to the magnificent Nordic treasure.

The Off Seasons: Spring and Autumn

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Lupine field in summer in Iceland

The Travel Seasons in Iceland

There are three main travel seasons in Iceland: peak season, secondary peak season, and low season. The peak season is in the summer months (June, July, and August), and the second peak season is during the winter (November to March ). Spring and autumn make up the low season, also referred to as the shoulder season.

While Iceland offers plenty of wonders all year round, every season has unique characteristics and diverse events and activities. There are advantages and disadvantages of each season in Iceland.

Spring and autumn are the two shortest seasons in Iceland, each lasting for just two months. Spring is the months of April and May, while September and October are the autumn months. These four months comprise the low season in Iceland.

Flights to Iceland are cheaper than at other times of the year, and visitors can also score lower prices and terrific deals on accommodations and car rentals too. The cheaper prices make the low season an ideal time for budget travelers to discover Iceland.

The low season naturally sees fewer visitors than the high season. If you prefer to dodge the tourist crowds and have a quieter vacation, visiting Iceland in the low season could be for you.

April and October have nicer weather than in winter, though it isn’t as pleasant as during the summer. Expect fairly chilly temperatures, rain, and darker days. The shoulder months of May and September can be suitable for camping and hiking, although the changeable conditions mean that nothing is guaranteed. Typically, however, May and September experience relatively mild temperatures and lots of sunny days.

Over the low season, May usually sees the best weather, with the least amount of rainfall and wind. On the flip side, if you were set on seeing the Northern Lights , it won’t happen in May—the nights just aren’t dark enough. There are greater chances of seeing the marvelous Aurora Borealis in September or October, thanks to the darker night skies.

Puffins return to Icelandaround late April, so you’ll be able to spot the cute seabirds in May. You won’t see them, however, in the later off-season months of September and October. You will, though, be able to see whales during autumn.

The main disadvantage of Iceland in the low season is the unpredictable and quickly changing weather conditions. You can experience sunny days and mild temperatures, but rain, snow, and storms are common too. The road conditions aren’t as safe as during the summer months; while usually fairly safe in April, roads can still have snow and ice.

In essence, visiting Iceland in the low season is great if your main priority is saving money and spending less on your vacation, though the tradeoffs will be poorer weather. You will also need to be more flexible with your plans.

Svartifoss waterfall in Skaftafell in autumn

The summer months of June, July, and August make up Iceland’s peak travel season; this is the country’s busiest time for tourism.

The weather is the most pleasant in the summer, with the highest temperatures, mostly sunny and bright days, and the least chance of wind, rain, and storms.

There are more hours of daylight over the summer. In fact, it never fully goes dark, thanks to the famous Midnight Sun. The skies take on gorgeous shades of red, orange, purple, yellow, and pink at nighttime, and there’s enough light to be able to travel and even hike. Summer is the only period when visitors can sleep under canvas in tents, and it’s also the most appropriate time to travel around Iceland in a motorhome or camper van.

Summer offers the best driving conditions in Iceland. It is possible to reach the nation’s most remote corners by car, although some mountainous roads and destinations do still require the use of robust four-wheel-drive vehicles. Regular paved roads, including the Ring Road, are accessible by small cars and bicycles.

The summer is the prime time for hiking through Iceland’s amazing landscapes. The hiking trails are fully accessible, there’s lots of wildlife to spot, and the Highlands burst into bloom after the long, cold winter. You’ll spot creatures like reindeer, sheep, Icelandic horses, and Arctic foxes roaming around Iceland’s terrain, while whales and puffins are easy to spot near the coast.

Awesome summer activities include regular and glacier hiking, caving, and trying various water sports. There are plenty of sightseeing excursions too, along with a wealth of cultural events and music festivals.

The downsides of visiting Iceland in the summer are the prices, traffic, and crowds. Accommodations can be booked up far in advance and campsites can be crammed with tents and campervans, particularly places close to popular destinations and attractions. Well-known attractions can be incredibly busy, especially at peak times. There is little chance for spontaneity, as you must plan your trip in advance.

Summer is the most expensive time for an Iceland trip, with higher costs for accommodations, plane fares, and vehicle rentals.

Another disadvantage of a summer vacation in Iceland is that you cannot see the magnificent Northern Lights; the nights just aren’t dark enough. Additionally, almost all glacial ice caves are closed to visitors in the summer.

Hveradalir geothermal area in Iceland

Iceland has a second peak season over winter—November to March . Lots of people visit Iceland to see stunning winter landscapes, spectacular ice caves, and frozen waterfalls in addition to the famous Northern Lights. There are terrific winter activities, like snowmobiling, to try too.

The long, dark nights are ideal for spotting the Northern Lights in all their glory. In fact, there are some 19 to 21 hours of darkness each day to watch for one of nature’s finest spectacles.

Iceland is full of festive cheer in December, and winter sees exciting firework displays and bonfires in the capital of Reykjavik.

Christmas and New Year aside, winter prices are usually lower than in the summer. It’s easier to find bargain flights, and you may also find cheaper accommodation. You won’t, however, be able to enjoy the cheapest accommodation option of camping, and touring by motorhome or campervan is also strongly discouraged.

Although popular, winter does see fewer visitors than in the summer, meaning that you don’t need to plan your vacation quite so far in advance, and you won’t get swallowed up in huge tourist crowds when visiting Iceland’s diverse attractions.

You may spot reindeer and horses outside over the winter, but you are unlikely to see much other wildlife. Whales and many bird species head south for the winter, and sheep are protected inside farm buildings.

A major drawback of winter is the weather. Winter is the coldest time of year, with strong winds and rain as well as many storms. There may be snow and ice too. Iceland’s roads can be difficult to drive in the winter, sometimes perilous, and there are lots of areas that are inaccessible with a regular car. The shorter hours of daylight also limit the amount of time people can realistically travel. December has the darkest days, gradually getting lighter, with March having more daylight than the depths of winter .

Exploring a natural ice cave in Iceland

The Best Time to Visit Iceland

Iceland is a world of wonder at any time of the year, with terrific activities and fascinating sights all year round. That said, depending on your preferred experiences there may be a better time for you to visit. We’ve put together the most popular places, attractions, and activities and provided details of the best times to visit Iceland for each. This helps you plan your trip according to your wishes.

Summer experiences the best weather in Iceland. Between June and August is the perfect period for people who don’t like cold conditions and love warm, sunny days with little wind. July and August are the warmer months, but August does generally have more rain (usually in the second half of the month) than July. Conversely, June is the driest month but also the coldest.

Enjoying the sunny weather in Iceland

While there are light, bright nights between late April and mid-August, the height of the famous midnight sun is from May to July. The peak is on June 21st—the summer solstice, or the longest day.

Over summer the sun doesn’t dip down below the horizon enough for darkness to fully fall, meaning that it’s light (to a degree) all through the night. In good weather conditions the stunning hues of sunset and sunrise color the skies for many hours throughout the night. There couldn’t be a better time to enjoy the start and end of each day and to take beautiful photographs.

In the south and around Reykjavik the sun sets just enough for you to experience sunset, before quickly rising again with glorious sunrise tones. In the north of the island, however, there is no true sunset.

Arnarstapi in the midnight sun

Many people visit Iceland with the primary intention of witnessing the awe-inspiring phenomenon that is the Northern Lights. Visible from late August to early April in Iceland, better weather conditions increase your chances of spotting the aurora. Regarding temperature, September and October are the mildest months. Of these two months, September is better when it comes to cloud cover and rain.

Even though the temperatures are colder, November and February are also good months for seeing the Northern Lights. The longer hours of darkness give more time to get out and try to spot the magical lights.

November and February usually have clearer skies than December and January due to the fact that they are drier with less precipitation. (September is, however, still the driest month during the Aurora-spotting season .)

Hallgrimskirkja church under the Northern Lights

There are many spectacular hiking trails through Iceland’s gorgeous mountains. Accessing these trails, however, really depends on the weather. As the weather is better in summer, with higher temperatures, drier conditions, and less wind, it follows that this is when you will find better trail conditions; the summer is, therefore, the best time to hike in Iceland. Furthermore, most of the country’s well-known hiking areas can only be accessed over the summer, particularly those in Highland areas.

Mountain hiking trails are typically at their best between late June and late August. You might be able to enjoy coastal hiking trails, however, between May and September. Hiking is strongly discouraged during the winter, for safety reasons. Only strongly experienced hikers should attempt to hike in Iceland over the winter, and crampons should always be used.

The most popular and most comfortable time for camping in Iceland is during the summer. Temperatures don’t fall below 0°C (32°F) over nighttimes. Wild camping isn’t legal in Iceland, but there are more than 200 official campsites spread across the island. Most are open from the middle of May until the end of September. Winter conditions are not suitable for camping in tents.

The road conditions are at their safest and best from May to October, making this the best time to explore Iceland by campervan or motorhome. Some campsites remain open all throughout the year to cater to people who need a place to park their vehicles and sleep during the winter. Traveling on Iceland’s roads during the winter can be tough for all vehicles, particularly larger vehicles like motorhomes and campervans; strong winds, snow, and ice can make winter driving in Iceland exceptionally hazardous and challenging.

Hiking in Landmannalaugar

Exploring Iceland is magical at any time of year, though the limited hours of daylight in the winter are an important consideration when planning your trip.

If you are planning to take a self-driving vacation, keep in mind that the best driving conditions are generally from May to October. Driving in Iceland in the winter is usually difficult, especially if you have no prior experience of handling a vehicle in wintery conditions.

Guided tours are available at all times of the year, and can access places that you may not be able to reach independently. You can travel safely and conveniently to beautiful destinations under the care of an experienced local guide. Sometimes, groups travel in vehicles that have been adapted for the terrain and the conditions.

When considering the best time to travel around Iceland’s famous Ring Road, think about the key things you wish to experience along your route. For example, are you keen to hike through nature and admire verdant landscapes and vibrant meadows filled with wild blooms, or are dazzling ice caves and frozen cascades more your thing? Midnight Sun or Northern Lights? Are you mainly interested in discovering the local heritage and culture? Perhaps you dream of relaxing in the warmth of charming guesthouses while you watch the snow falling and blanketing the ground outside? Your preferences will help you to decide the best time for you to travel around Iceland’s Ring Road.

Road tripping in Iceland

Although you can access Iceland’s most famous natural sites all throughout the year, the majority of visitors opt to experience them in the warmer summer months. This is when you’ll find the best weather and road conditions, but this also means that the roads have the most congestion and the attractions have the biggest crowds. If you prefer a quieter vibe with fewer people around, visit in the shoulder months of May or September.

If your time is limited in Iceland and you just have a few days’ vacation, the South Coast and Golden Circle are likely to be high on your travel wishlist. It’s possible to drive to these destinations at any time of year, though the weather means you’ll need to plan your trip(s) that bit more. The natural sites are stunning in the winter, although do keep in mind that they look different to in the summer.

iceland holidays best time to visit

It’s possible to spot whales all year round in the waters off Iceland’s coast. The best time to spot these magnificent sea creatures is over the summer. Migratory whales return to Iceland around the beginning of April. Although migratory whales depart again at the end of autumn, some whales, those who aren’t breeding, remain through the winter months too.

Female whales reach maturity in around five to seven years. When mature, whales breed once in every two to three years, and spend more than a year nursing their young. When not breeding, whales don’t need to make the long migratory journey and so remain in Icelandic waters.

Orcas (also known as killer whales), however, breed all throughout the year. Their migratory patterns depend on food supply. Since there are many fish, such as herring and capelin, in the cold winter waters, the distinctive black and white orcas are drawn to Icelandic waters to feed.

Especially great for nature lovers, you can watch beautiful sea creatures on a whale-watching trip . Head out to sea for a few hours to observe whales in nature. Northern Iceland’s Húsavík is a top spot for seeing whales in the wild, and Snæfellsnes (on Iceland’s northern peninsula) is a great place to see orcas.

Whale watching boat tour in Iceland

You can spot various bird species in Iceland throughout the year, including blackbirds, ducks, swans, oystercatchers, and gyrfalcons.

Many avian species are migratory, though, meaning they are only present in Iceland at certain times of the year. This naturally results in some months being better than others for birdwatching. Plus, if there are particular bird species that you’re keen to see you should plan your trip around when they are at their largest numbers in Iceland.

Migratory birds generally start to return to Iceland in April. If you wait until May, however, the numbers are greater and thus the chances of fruitful bird-watching experiences are higher. The numbers of migrating birds are highest from May until the middle of August. That said, the best time for birdwatching in Iceland is considered by enthusiasts and experts to be from the latter half of May and the first three weeks in June.

After the winter, the first bird to come back to Iceland’s shores is the golden plover. It makes its arrival towards the end of March, signaling the eagerly awaited arrival of spring. Known as the lóa in the native language, the golden plover is the county’s most celebrated type of bird. After the golden plover returns, other birds too start making their comeback, eventually, their warbling, tweeting, whistling, and chattering creating the enchanting natural summertime soundtrack. Most Icelanders know a catchy poem-cum-folk song about the birds’ return, which includes the message: “The golden plover has arrived to banish the snow, to banish the boredom, that it can do. … It has told me to wake up and work, and full of hope welcome the summer.”

Lots of visitors wish to see the famous Atlantic puffins around the coast of Iceland. The puffins return in April and are abundant through the summer. With around 8 to 10 million puffins calling Iceland home in the summer months, it’s little wonder that Iceland is sometimes referred to as the puffin capital of the world! Puffins leave Iceland in September, following most other species who depart around mid-August.

Puffins in Iceland

Iceland offers an exciting array of glacier activities, such as ice climbing, glacier hiking , and snowmobiling . As Iceland’s magnificent glaciers are accessible in all their beauty all year round, visitors can therefore enjoy incredible glacier adventures at all times. You will need to consider the weather, however, to make sure you dress appropriately for the conditions.

For hiking on glaciers and ice climbing, it is particularly important to ensure you dress for the conditions. You’ll be provided with all the necessary safety equipment, but you’ll wear your own clothes underneath. If you don’t have appropriate clothes though you can normally rent them from the tour companies. For snowmobiling adventures, you’ll be given gloves, a balaclava, and a helmet for both safety and warmth, as well as a protective overall to keep you warm and shield you from the wind and rain.

Glacier tour in Iceland

Winter is the best time to explore spectacular ice caves in all their ethereal beauty. Every October, tour companies go on scouting missions to find new caves, with tours starting up in early November. Iceland’s ice cave season runs from November until late March / early April (weather dependent). This is when it is safe to visit the country’s ice caves.

Throughout the five or so months of the ice cave season, some periods are better than others for adventures. Fewer tours are available in December and January, largely because of the limited hours of daylight.

As the days become lighter in February and March , more ice-caving tours operate. There are more hours of daylight to explore the ice caves and it’s a great time to get the best photographs of your adventures.

Visiting a natural ice cave in Iceland

A family trip to Iceland will probably depend on existing time availability, such as holidays from work or school. There will probably be certain experiences that you’re keen to enjoy—you can look above for inspiration and ideas. For example, would your family prefer to experience the Northern lights or the midnight sun? Are you an active family that wants to spend time outdoors and spotting nature, or are you captivated by wintery landscapes?

Many families choose to visit Iceland in the summer, as this is when you will find the most child-friendly activities and things for people of all ages. The range of activities help to enhance any family vacation, providing educational and cultural understanding and education to complement and richen sightseeing around Iceland.

Driving around the island is one of the most convenient ways for families to fully make the most of their time in Iceland. Rent a car or book a self-driving package and discover Iceland at your leisure. You can choose which places to add to your itinerary, how long to spend at each place, where to stop to eat, when to take bathroom breaks, and so on. You’re completely in control of your holiday. Travelling at a slower pace is recommended for families, especially in the winter months when you’ll need to have some flexibility and may need to make last-minute changes to plans if roads are closed etc.

Exploring Skogafoss waterfall with kids

Iceland is the perfect romantic destination for a honeymoon. Lovebirds can explore the nation’s gorgeous landscapes, discover the creative culture, and enjoy a diverse selection of tours and activities.

While you might already have set your honeymoon dates if you are able to choose when to take your honeymoon we really recommend a visit in the low season. Prices are lower and there are much fewer crowds to interrupt your newly wedded bliss.

The best time for an Icelandic honeymoon, however, does largely depend on what you are expected to see and do.

Summer is lovely, with plenty of lush greenery and endless sunny days. On the flip side, it’s the busiest tourism time, with the highest prices and biggest crowds. Autumn is brilliant, with smaller crowds and lower prices, not to mention the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights and attending cool music festivals.

Visiting Iceland in the winter can be really romantic, with the chance to make many magical memories of your first vacation as a married couple. Many major attractions are still accessible, but without the large crowds, and the snowy landscapes are enchanting. You can still spot the Northern Lights and then return to a cozy accommodation to relax and snuggle up.

Couple at the Skogafoss waterfall in Iceland

In a nutshell, the more time you can spend in Iceland, the better! You can scratch the surface of Iceland’s famous attraction in a shorter trip of a few days, but you’ll truly get the most out of your holiday if you can stay for at least a week. With a week’s vacation, you can tick off the most popular places, enjoy typical activities like snowmobiling and hiking on a glacier, and take a relaxing dip in an enticing geothermal pool. And all at an unhurried pace.

With ten days or more you can travel more extensively around the island and visit some off-the-beaten-track gems and remote countryside treasures. This is a great way to get away from the masses and enjoy relative peace and quiet.

If you want to understand Iceland more like a local, plan to stay for at least two weeks … longer if possible. As well as headline attractions you can spend long days hiking in picturesque nature, stroll around lesser-visited seaside communities, marvel at remote fjords, and escape the tried-and-trodden path in places like the Eastfjords, Westfjords, and the north. There will be more opportunities to relish local cuisine, interact with locals, and learn more about the unique Icelandic culture.

Have you decided on the best time for your trip to Iceland? Or perhaps you’re still looking for a bit more guidance? In any case, contact our expert Iceland travel consultants to start the ball rolling in planning your amazing vacation.

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The Best Time to Visit Iceland

iceland holidays best time to visit

While there are many unique travel opportunities , various adventures, and great events year-round in Iceland, the best time to visit Iceland  is in  June  when the weather starts to warm up and the country experiences 24 hours of sunlight.

However, if you're planning your first trip to Iceland , the best time of year to explore this Nordic island nation really depends on what you're looking for—whether you prefer warmer weather and outdoor events or you don't mind a little bit of cold for a great nightlife scene. When it comes to deciding what time is right for your trip, you should consider when to expect the biggest and smallest crowds, warmest or coldest weather, and highest or lowest costs for airfare and accommodations.

Peak Season in Iceland

Undoubtedly, July through the early August is the busiest time of year for Iceland's tourism industry, but crowd sizes and travel prices start going up in May and June and don't really start going down until September. If you're looking to avoid lots of tourists and to save money on your trip while still being able to access popular attractions, you might consider visiting in the shoulder season, which happens from early April to mid-June and mid-September to early November each year. 

The dead of winter, which runs from early December through mid-March, is the official off-season for Iceland, but a boom in year-round tourism since 2008 has resulted in prices for airfare and accommodations stabilizing over the years as more travelers have discovered the joys of this Nordic country's coldest season. However, you can still find great prices on last-minute airfare and even some special travel deals from the United States this time of year.

Weather in Iceland

Don't let the name Iceland fool you: The winters here aren't particularly bad; temperatures average 32 degrees Fahrenheit in the lowlands and 14 degrees Fahrenheit in the highlands for most of the season.   However, temperatures can dip down to 22 degrees below zero in the northern part of the country, so you'll want to avoid that area if you visit during the winter. June is the country's driest month of the year, while July is the warmest month of summer, with an average temperature of a pleasant 60 degrees Fahrenheit, and the  weather in Iceland  usually stays mild until late August.

When to See Natural Phenomena in Iceland

Known as a country of mystical landscapes and breathtaking vistas, one of the main reasons people visit Iceland is to enjoy its natural phenomena, including the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights), the Midnight Sun, and the Polar Nights.

While nearby Norway may be home to the best places to see the Northern Lights , there are plenty of great spots in northern Iceland to catch a glimpse if you visit from mid-October through March, a period known as the Polar Nights when the country experiences up to 19 hours of darkness a day. However, if you're a creature of the sun, you may prefer to travel in the summer instead when the Midnight Sun results in over 20 hours of daylight from June through August.

While some attractions might not yet be open in March or April, which is the best time to see the snow giving way to lush greenery and wildlife, you're sure to find plenty worthy of exploring. Spring is particularly great for visiting unique destinations like the many remote hot springs spread across the country as their access roads are buried under snow all winter.

Events to Check Out

  • Puffins arrive on the island each year in April.
  • National Beer Day is held each year on March 1, celebrating the end of Iceland's prohibition. There are several craft beers now available. Pubs and restaurants throughout the country celebrate.

Summer in Iceland is one of the best times to visit because the weather is pleasant and the sun barely sets. If you'd prefer longer days to explore the outdoors and hike the defrosted fjords, you'll love that there are about 20 hours of daylight (on average) each month of this season. Along with seasonal events—including outdoor concerts and festivals celebrating art, culture, and music—Iceland provides ample opportunity during the summer to explore the highlands and thawed fjords, swim in crystal-clear mountain lakes, and hike around the gorgeous island landscape.

The drawback to summer, though, is that prices are generally higher across the board—on food, accommodations, attractions, rentals, and airfare. Additionally, lines are longer, hotels fill up, and restaurants run out of room on their reservation lists as tourists flock to the most popular spots during the long daylight hours of Iceland's summer.

  • The Viking Festival takes place in June in Hafnarfjörður. It's the oldest festival of its kind in the country.
  • June 17 is Icelandic National Day, a celebration of the young country's independence. 

If you visit in September through mid-October, you'll have an even better opportunity to enjoy the hot springs since there will be fewer crowds and you won't have to rely on snow melting to access these remote destinations. Additionally, some of the best opportunities to see the Northern Lights are on clear autumn nights in late October through early December, before winter weather settles in and blocks the view with thick clouds.

  • The annual Iceland Airwaves music festival takes place in Reykjavik in November and showcases new music from around the world.
  • One of Iceland's oldest traditions is réttir, an annual island-wide sheep round-up that take place during September.

Summer has the benefit of long days but come winter, daylight shrinks to about five hours in a period called the  Polar Nights . If you can endure little sunlight, the question of when to visit Iceland suddenly becomes much harder because Iceland also has many bolder things to offer in winter: never-ending nightlife  in Reykjavik , infinite chances to view the  Northern Lights , and plenty of outdoor snow activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling.

The colder part of the year is also when flight prices to Iceland fall drastically and local hotels suddenly cut prices by more than half. Budget travelers wondering when to go to Iceland should aim for February or March because those months have more daylight than the earlier winter months but still the smallest crowds and the lowest prices.

  • Winter means Christmas markets, which are abundant throughout Iceland. One of the best is Heiðmörk Christmas Market, about a 20-minute drive from Reykjavík.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Iceland depends on what you're looking for, but June is one of the best months for visiting. It's before the peak tourist season begins and the midnight sun phenomenon is incredible to experience.

The off-season is the cold winter months, especially from November to April. Prices go up in the weeks around the holidays, but outside of those dates it's the cheapest time to visit Iceland.

The peak season in Iceland is July and August when the days are at their warmest. Prices start going up in May and June, but you'll still find cheaper rates than you will in the late summer.

Guide to Iceland. "Weather in Iceland & Best Time To Visit." Retrieved February 10, 2021.

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Best Time to Visit Iceland: Your Complete Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland or really inspired to come to this Nordic gem, you may be wondering when is the best time to visit Iceland. One of the country's many charms is being a year-round destination, but your personal choice can influence when to visit Iceland! 

Whether you want to visit in winter or summer , or come for a particular interest of yours, we have it all below.

Iceland is a country that is beautiful and interesting all year long. This is why, at Nordic Visitor, our travel consultants have crafted tours for both the winter and summer seasons.

There are countless fantastic activities and sights to see and do, so depending on your interests or your available time to come, we have you covered with this useful guide.

  • When is peak season?
  • When is best for weather?

Exploring Iceland in summer

Exploring iceland in winter.

  • Visiting Reykjavík
  • Birdwatching
  • Touring the Golden Circle
  • Seeing the northern lights
  • Experiencing the midnight sun
  • Taking stunning photography
  • Honeymooners
  • Enjoying the Blue Lagoon and spas
  • Dipping in hot springs
  • Whale watching
  • Attending events and festivals
  • Combining Iceland and Greenland

When is the peak season in Iceland?

Peak season for travelling to Iceland is during the summer, between June and August.

If you visit at this time, it'll coincide with the mildest weather, summer holidays, the most daylight, and the most activities available. In recent years, the winter months have also been very popular, with people flocking to Iceland to see the northern lights.

  • For popular itineraries around Iceland, check out these best-selling tours
  • Visit in  June , July or  August  to see Iceland at peak time

When is the best time to visit Iceland for the weather?

Iceland isn’t as cold as its name may suggest and enjoys a temperate climate all year long. That’s not to say that the weather doesn’t change quickly over the course of a single day.

For that reason, regardless of the time of year, make sure to have wind and water resistant layers on hand.

The mildest weather of the year in Iceland is, of course, during the summer months.

If you’re looking for maximum sunlight, or even to experience the midnight sun (when the sun doesn’t fully set below the horizon), the best period to come is in June, July or August.

laugavegur mountains

The shoulder months of May and September are also ideal for those who prefer a quieter holiday, as they usually attract less crowds. The weather is usually still mild, although a bit more unpredictable.

  • Visit Iceland in  May  or  September  to enjoy the advantages of the shoulder months

Of course, maybe the perfect weather for you is a crisp and snowy day. Then the winter months will be the time when you want to come and enjoy the best that Iceland has to offer.

The months between October and April define the winter season and shoulder season. You may also enjoy visiting in late December to join in the Icelandic New Year’s festivities.

You can find out more about the weather in Iceland in our handy climate and weather conditions guide .

What is the best month to visit Iceland?

While the weather may be a big draw for some, you may want to come to Iceland for a particular month or season, whether that’s when you have holiday or when you want to enjoy a certain activity.

Summer in Iceland is from June until August. The shoulder months May and September are very popular among travellers as well.

The summer is by far the most popular with visitors. This is because, at that time of year, the temperature is generally milder, there is more daylight to take advantage of when sightseeing, and there are more activities available.

There is a lot of festivals and events as well, you can read more about that below.

You’re also more likely to enjoy a road trip in the summer as you’ll have more daylight hours to drive. If you only have a week, you can still drive the Ring Road but it will involve longer daily driving distances.

The roads are also less likely to be shut due to the weather conditions at this time.

The one downside some people may find is that, as summer attracts the most visitors, it means more crowds at popular attractions. If you prefer a quieter time, you could also visit during the shoulder season, the months of May and September .

For the most beautiful colours in nature, but also a quieter time for tourism in Iceland, I would recommend September. The fall colours are amazing and that is my favourite time to explore the country. - Helga Guðmundsdóttir, Travel consultant for Iceland
  • Take a look at our summer tours in Iceland

Winter is slowly attracting more and more visitors. Quieter months such as October and November are a great time to visit Iceland. This is especially true if you want to experience the long nights and darkness of the northern parallels.

The enchanting natural phenomena that are the aurora borealis deserve attention too. As do the wintry landscapes of the higher altitudes and North Iceland.

While Iceland is a year-round destination, there are fewer activities available at that time of year, with less daylight to take advantage of them. For a road trip, we would recommend staying around the west and southern coast of Iceland. There is plenty to see here, including the Golden Circle. 

You could also fly up to the capital of the north Akureyri. Experience this beautiful region and see a true winter landscape.

  • Visit Iceland October  and  April  to enjoy the Icelandic winter
  • By coming in  December  you could join in the Christmas and New Year's Eve celebrations

hallgrimskirkja church under the snow

During many months of the winter, it’s also possible to tour the famous Ring Road if that’s what you’re looking for. However, be aware that the weather can often make the roads and driving conditions unpredictable and difficult.

Driving during the winter months in Iceland is not for everyone.

This is why we do not recommend a long road trip in the winter if you have never driven on snow and ice.

If you are going to embark on a winter driving tour in Iceland, you should be comfortable driving in what can be challenging conditions. This includes snowstorms, icy roads and little daylight.

  • To tour the island at your own pace, browse our winter self-drive tours of Iceland
  • Don't fancy driving in winter? Choose a small group tour and let an experienced driver take you to Iceland's star attractions

If you do want to come in the winter, make sure to dress for the Icelandic weather. We have a handy packing guide here to help you with that.

When is best time of year to visit Iceland depending on your needs?

As we’ve mentioned many times again, there is no bad time to visit Iceland, there is something beautiful to see and something interesting to do all year long.

Below we’ve highlighted the most requested interests and activities and when is the best time to go to Iceland for them. Look up the one you’d love to experience while in Iceland:

Best time to visit Reykjavík, Iceland

Reykjavík is a colourful, cultural, and buzzing city throughout the seasons. From year-round festivals, to New Year’s Eve celebrations, and world-renown attractions, visiting Iceland’s capital is always fun.

The best time may depend on what you want to do during your visit. Most museums, such as Perlan the top attraction in town, open their doors throughout the year. The swimming pools, heated by geothermal power, are also visited by locals and visitors all year long.

To attend specific events, you may want to visit at a particular time. Attend Iceland Airwaves in November, the Culture Night in August, or the Secret Solstice in June. Summer has the largest concentration of festivals if you want to feel the lively atmosphere.

December is a great time to visit to get in the festive spirit. There are fireworks, bonfires and more to celebrate Christmas and mark the start of a new year.

  • Enjoy a city break  in Reykjavík to take part in the lively culture

sunset over hallgrimskirkja church

Best time to visit for birdwatchers

If you love birds and birdwatching, you will be spoiled in Iceland!

While it is possible to birdwatch all year round, many of the bird species are migratory and thus only spend a portion of the year in Iceland. This means some periods of the year are indeed better for birdwatching, or for spotting certain kinds of birds.

Generally speaking, the best time for birdwatching is considered to be between mid- April and the end of June . This is the time of the year that sees the most bird species in Iceland, and long daylight hours gives visitors ample time to admire them.

There are five species that people often seek out and we’ve made a wee guide for you:

There are 8 to 10 million puffins that spend their summer in Iceland every year! That makes up nearly 60% of the world’s Atlantic puffin population. These adorable birds can be spotted from late April, with the best period to see them being between May and early August .

Harlequin duck

Since Iceland is the only country in Europe where this colourful duck species can be found, it is an exciting sighting!

There are around 2000 to 3000 pairs that breed around the country. While they stay in the sea around the island during the winter, in the spring they travel up rivers for their nesting season. They can, for example, be found in Ölfusá river.

Barrow‘s goldeneye

90% of the Barrow’s goldeneye around Lake Mývatn and stay there year-round. Around 150 birds can also be spotted on the south coast during the winter, but they head for Lake Mývatn for breeding season around mid- March .

It’s important to note that the Gyrfalcon is a fully protected species and so, no specific location can be given about their breeding location.

While it is not commonly sighted, when it is spotted, it is usually around Lake Mývatn due to the abundance of prey, and around Reykjavík and the Reykjanes Peninsula in the winter.

If you are lucky enough to spot one, please be aware that approaching nesting sites is not permitted. Neither is sharing information about their breeding sites.

Brünnich’s guillemot (also known as thick-billed murre)

In the winter, you can spot this species in the north and east coast of Iceland. But if you happen to be here in the spring or summer, you may be able to observe a Brünnich’s guillemot around the various seabird cliffs around the country.

They are commonly spotted between the end of March and the end of July . As of where to go, we recommend:

  • Lake Mývatn area, which is one of the most popular for birdwatching. That’s because it is well-known for its diverse birdlife, especially duck species (there are 14!).
  • Látrabjarg bird cliff, located in the West fjords of Iceland, is the largest bird cliff in Europe at 14 kilometres long and up to 441 metres high. There you can get a closer look at millions of nesting sea birds, such as puffins, razorbills and guillemots.
  • Hafnarhólmi in Borgarfjörður eystra offers visitors the perfect opportunity to see puffins.

puffins on a cliff

Best time to visit Iceland's Golden Circle

We would recommend visiting during the shoulder season to have the best experience of the Golden Circle and its attractions.

Even though, it is worth mentioning that the Golden Circle is beautiful at all times of the year. In the winter, the landscape will be enchanting, dusted in snow and frost. In the summer, you can enjoy longer walks in the landscape and spend more time at each site.

However, at the peak of summer, you may find that you’re not alone at Þingvellir, Strokkur, or Gullfoss.

Indeed, as they are the closest sights to Reykjavík, they are easy to visit on a city break. It means these locations are usually more crowded than others, especially so at the height of summer.

For a bit of peace and quiet, visit on either side of the summer, in April, May, September or October.

  • To travel along the Golden Circle and other iconic sights, look up these  classic holidays to Iceland

Best time to visit Iceland for hiking

Hiking in Iceland will be an unforgettable experience as the mountains aren’t just beautiful, but also full of stunning trails. It is also extremely dependent on weather due to the accessibility of those hiking trails.

The best time to visit Iceland for hikers will be between May and September. It is during these summer months that the trails are accessible and when there is the most daylight to take full advantage of the trails and Iceland’s natural beauty.

Hiking in the highlands  of Iceland is often limited by the opening of the road leading into the highlands after winter. This is all dependent on weather conditions and location, but will normally open from mid-June.

This also means that some hiking trails high up the mountains may still have snow in May. It is not recommended, as an example, to hike to Stórurð in May because it is usually covered in snow at that time. 

Please always be careful as a hiker to not put yourself in danger and always be ready for the weather conditions.

My favourite time to hike in Iceland is in midsummer when everything is green and lush. It can be even better if it’s raining, then the fragrance of nature is so fresh. During this time of year, the highlands turn into a fairy tale and the options are endless. Hills, lava fields, river banks... It doesn’t matter, it’s simply gorgeous! –Perla Magnúsdóttir, Travel consultant for Iceland
  • To take on hiking or other adventurous endeavours in Iceland, check out our active tours

people hiking in mountains

Best time to visit ice caves in Iceland

To explore and experience the surreal atmosphere of an ice cave, come in winter. Between mid-November and early March, you can book an adventure inside the Katla ice cave, located inside the Kötlujökull glacier. You could also walk through parts of the largest glacier in Iceland, Vatnajökull .

Visit the second largest glacier on the island, Langjökull, with the  Into The Glacier  experience. This is a man-made tunnel taking you into the depths of the glacier.  

Or, if you’re coming in summer and still want to experience an ice cave, pop by the Perlan in Reykjavík. This must-see attraction offers you the chance to walk through an artificial ice cave, made as a replica of a real glacier.

Best time to visit Iceland for northern lights

Aurora borealis are one of the most wonderful natural phenomenon to witness and many visitors come to Iceland just for this!

If this has always been on your bucket list, the season to see them is from mid-September until the middle of April, when darkness makes it more likely. But as these are naturally occurring, it means no one can guarantee you will see them.

Sighting depends both on northern lights activity and weather conditions, because it requires both dark and clear skies. You can read more about the northern lights and how best to capture it on our dedicated travel guide .

  • Browse our  northern lights tours in Iceland
  • Related : explore these northern lights tour packages  for other Nordic countries

northern lights in the sky

Best time to visit for the midnight sun

To experience the midnight sun, you must visit Iceland during the height of the summer, between May and July. The longest day of the year is at the summer solstice on the 21 June, which means this is when midnight sun peaks in Iceland.

Although you may want to bring an eye-mask to sleep!

  • To experience this phenomenon, check out  our midnight sun tours  in Iceland

Best time to visit Iceland for photography

Photographers will love Iceland regardless of the time of the year, month, or location. The Icelandic landscapes are breathtaking and extremely photogenic, if we can say so ourselves!

Moreover, when the weather is on your side, the light in Iceland is great for photographers!

During the winter months, photographers who look for wintry landscapes and snowy mountain tops will have plenty to enjoy. There is also one added bonus to winter photography in Iceland: blue and golden hour being during the day!

Yes, due to its location in the north, in the winter the sun doesn’t rise very high in the sky. This creates a golden hour that lasts for the duration of daylight (all dependent on the exact date).

Location wise, if you want to take some photos in the east and north of the country, you may want to visit during the summer and shoulder season, when the roads are more accessible and reliable.

And fear not, photographers will also be spoiled for golden and blue hour during the summer! At the peak of the summer months, they both can last for hours!

  • Travel with a private, local guide at the wheel to see highlights of Iceland and take stunning photos on the way

woman takin photo at dynjandi waterfall

Best time to visit Iceland for families

Coming to Iceland with your family may depend on school or work holidays, or what you’re looking for as an experience. Do you want to see the northern lights or experience the midnight sun? Look up our above categories to get a better idea.

What we do recommend is coming in the summer as there are more kid-friendly activities available at that time.

This includes whale-watching (it is also available in winter, but the seas are rougher at that time), hay cart puffin tours, and boat tours on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon . Something to interest all young adventurers!

Usually, I recommend travelling in the summer time with children, because the long daylight hours give families flexibility to stop frequently and for a longer time. - Kristín Halldóra Halldórsdóttir, Travel consultant for Iceland

We also recommend generally slower-paced tours where you can spend more than one night in one location. This is especially true in winter as you may have to change your plans last minute if the roads are closed due to the weather conditions.

  • Discover amazing ways to see Iceland with your children with  our family friendly tours

Best time to visit Iceland for honeymoon

Honeymoons all depend on you! What are you planning for? Straight after your wedding or a bit later, when you’ve had time to save and prepare for your dream trip?

If you’ve always dreamed of a honeymoon in Iceland, the best time to come, may depend on what you want out of it.

  • Do you want to go hike up one of the iconic Icelandic mountains? Summer.
  • Do you want to visit the remote Westfjords ? Summer.
  • Do you want to cosy up together and admire the northern lights? Winter.

We believe that travelling in the wintertime can be very romantic! There are fewer people in Iceland at that time of year. This means there are less visitors at each highlight, like the Golden Circle, giving you more time together in a more relaxed atmosphere.

Finally, our travel consultants would recommend spending at least more than one night in the locations you’re visiting, to give you the chance of a leisurely stay with your partner.

  • See our romantic and honeymoon trips around Iceland

couple at skogafoss waterfall

Best time of year to visit the Blue Lagoon, Iceland, & other spas

One way to take advantage of Iceland’s geothermal energy as a tourist (except for the wonderful sight of volcanoes of course!) is to go for a dip into one of the many geothermal pools.

The Blue Lagoon , Iceland’s most famous spa, is a must stop for many visitors. It is open all year round, but those won’t don’t like the cold may prefer to go in the summer.

However, it isn’t the only geothermal pool you can experience on your trip. There are many around the country, including natural hot springs and geothermally-heated public pools in the city of Reykjavík. Most are open all year long.

The winter dips won’t be for the faint hearted as you’ll have to shuffle in your bathing suit from the changing rooms into the water in the cold wind. But it's ultimately worth it!

  • To take some time to enjoy the spas, look up these relaxation tours in Iceland

pool at the blue lagoon

Best time to visit Iceland for hot springs

The beauty of hot springs is that they are warm all year long. That means you could visit at any time of the year and enjoy bathing in the warm, relaxing waters.

Summer is the best time to go hiking to remote areas where you’ll have hot springs to yourself. You may also find it easier to get into your swimming suit and walk in and out of the water during the summer.

The winter isn’t without its advantages though. You could warm up after a day of snowy excursions. Enjoy the difference between the cold air and hot water and admire the snow drop from your cosy spot.

  • Take in the sights and dip in all the hot springs you want with an Icelandic road trip

Best time to visit Iceland to see whales

The summertime is the best time to come to Iceland if you want to whale watch. Taking usually a few hours, the excursion is a great addition to any trip around Iceland, especially for those who love to see wildlife. The best location is Húsavík in the north of Iceland.

The northern peninsula Snæfellsnes is also home to orcas if you would like to go orca watching.

Best time to visit for fun events and festivals

There are interesting festivals and events all year long in Iceland. But the summer sees most of the events of the year, as the good weather brings about a festive spirit!

There are also many festivals being held in smaller towns. Verslunarmannahelgin is the most popular weekend of the summer when there are celebrations in many towns around Iceland.

In June there are two big celebrations. The Iceland National Day marks Iceland’s independence from Denmark on the 17th June 1944. It is celebrated on the 17th June and is one of the most popular events of the summer.

The second is an outdoor music festival to celebrate the summer solstice. Held in Laugardalur in Reykjavík, the Secret Solstice Festival sees Icelandic and foreign bans perform under the midnight sun.

One festival we recommend is also Bræðslan, held in July every year in Borgarfjörður eystra in the east fjords of Iceland. It is a music festival where Icelandic and foreign bands perform.

Bakkagerði (the town in Borgarfjörður eystra) is one of the most remote villages in Iceland. It is located amongst a beautiful fjord with colourful mountains towering over the small town.

  • Pair a stay in the city with some day tours in the gorgeous countryside with one of these multi-day tours in Iceland

friends walking in reykjavik

August brings a good mix of interesting events in the capital, with the Reykjavík Pride, the Reykjavík Marathon and the Reykjavík Culture Night.

The latter is especially exciting as it celebrates Iceland’s diverse cultural scene. There are countless free events through the evening, including outdoor concerts, film screenings, art and photography exhibitions, street performances and a firework display by the harbour to close the night.

There are also two major festivals in the autumn that we need to mention. The first is Reykjavík International Film Festival (or RIFF) which features films from both Iceland and abroad (the winner takes home a Golden Puffin!). It is held every year between mid-September and mid-October.

The second is one of the biggest music festivals in the country, Iceland Airwaves. It is held every year in early November and if you love discovering new bands, this is for you!

And last but not least, you could always join us in December for New Year’s Eve celebrations !

For more information about events in Iceland, look at our annual events guide .

Best time to visit Iceland and Greenland

The best time to combine a tour to both these glorious Nordic islands is to travel in summer. Although you could visit at any time of the year, flights to Greenland from Iceland can be affected by severe winter weather.

For that reason, book your Greenland and Iceland trip between June and August. At this time, you’ll also enjoy nicer weather and longer daylight hours for more sightseeing.

You can bask in the glow of the midnight sun while admiring glaciers, icebergs, and more.

  • Have a true Nordic experience by pairing Iceland and Greenland in one exciting trip

nanortalik town in the mountains

Did you find the perfect time for you to book your Iceland adventure? Or maybe you’re still not sure? Either way, get in touch with our Icelandic travel consultants . Based in Reykjavík, they’ll use their local knowledge to help you figure it all out.

All our itineraries can be tailored to you as well, so don’t hesitate to ask if you want to do something special. You can stay in a location longer, add excursions, day tours, or even spa days to your stay.

Our goal is to make sure you have a great time in Iceland!

camila blog profile

  Camila grew up between the French Canadian and Chilean cultures, before moving to Scotland in 2012. When she’s not travelling or writing about travels, Camila loves to read, run, and puzzle. Her favourite destinations have been Reykjavík, Copenhagen, Estonia and Cape Town.  

Find Camila on LinkedIn .

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

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iceland holidays best time to visit

Best Time to Visit Iceland

iceland holidays best time to visit

Best Time to Visit Iceland: A Comprehensive Guide

Iceland, known for its dramatic landscapes and breathtaking natural wonders, offers a unique experience for every traveler. Whether you’re planning a road trip, exploring the country’s rich cultural heritage, or embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures, choosing the best time to visit Iceland is crucial to making the most of your trip. This guide will help you decide the ideal time to explore Iceland, considering weather conditions, seasonal activities, and special events.

The Best Time to Visit Iceland

Summer (june to august).

  • Midnight Sun : Experience nearly 24 hours of daylight, allowing for extended exploration.
  • Mild Weather: Temperatures range from 10-15°C (50-59°F), making it perfect for outdoor activities.
  • Accessible Roads: The highland roads (F-roads) and remote areas are open and accessible.
  • Festivals and Events: Enjoy local festivals like Reykjavik Arts Festival, Secret Solstice Festival, and Icelandic National Day.
  • Crowds: Popular tourist spots can be crowded, and accommodation prices may be higher.
  • Limited Northern Lights: The extended daylight hours make it difficult to see the Northern Lights.

Best Activities:

  • Golden Circle and Ring Road Trips: With long days, you can cover more ground and visit more attractions.
  • Hiking: Trails in Landmannalaugar, Þórsmörk, and the highlands are open.
  • Whale Watching : Peak season for whale watching tours, especially from Reykjavik and Húsavík.

Autumn (September to October)

  • Northern Lights : The return of darker nights makes it possible to see the Northern Lights.
  • Fewer Crowds: Tourist numbers start to dwindle, making it easier to enjoy attractions.
  • Colorful Landscapes: Autumn foliage adds a beautiful touch to the landscapes.
  • Unpredictable Weather: Be prepared for varying weather conditions, including rain and wind.
  • Shorter Days: Days start to shorten, limiting the time available for outdoor activities.
  • Aurora Borealis Hunting: Join guided tours to maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights.
  • Harvest Festivals: Participate in local harvest celebrations and food festivals.
  • Horse Riding: Enjoy the scenic beauty of Iceland on horseback.

Winter (November to February)

  • Northern Lights: Long nights provide excellent opportunities to witness the Aurora Borealis.
  • Snow Activities: Engage in winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and ice caving.
  • Festive Atmosphere: Experience Icelandic Christmas traditions and the unique charm of Reykjavik in winter.
  • Limited Daylight: Short days with only 4-5 hours of daylight.
  • Harsh Weather: Cold temperatures and icy roads can make travel challenging.
  • Northern Lights Tours: Join guided tours to chase the Northern Lights in optimal locations.
  • Ice Caving: Explore stunning ice caves in Vatnajökull Glacier.
  • Christmas Markets: Enjoy the festive atmosphere in Reykjavik’s Christmas markets.

Spring (March to May)

  • Longer Days: Daylight increases, offering more time for exploration.
  • Milder Weather: Temperatures begin to rise, and the landscapes start to bloom.
  • Less Crowded: Fewer tourists compared to the summer months.
  • Unpredictable Weather: Be prepared for a mix of winter and spring weather conditions.
  • Limited Access to Highlands: Some highland roads may still be closed.
  • Bird Watching: Spring is the best time to see migratory birds, especially puffins.
  • Whale Watching: The whale-watching season starts, with opportunities to see various species.
  • Exploring Waterfalls: Visit iconic waterfalls like Gullfoss, Skógafoss, and Seljalandsfoss with fewer crowds.

Cruise Passengers in Iceland

Cruise passengers typically visit Iceland between May and September. During this period, the weather is more favorable, and the days are longer, allowing for extended shore excursions. Ports of call include Reykjavik, Akureyri, Ísafjörður, and Seyðisfjörður, each offering unique shore excursions that highlight Iceland’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Popular Iceland Shore Excursions :

  • Reykjavik Shore Excursions : Golden Circle tours, whale watching, and visits to the Blue Lagoon.
  • Akureyri Shore Excursions : Tours to Godafoss, Lake Mývatn, and the surrounding geothermal areas.
  • Ísafjörður Shore Excursions : Whale watching tours, visits to Dynjandi waterfall, and hiking in the Westfjords.
  • Seyðisfjörður Shore Excursions : Scenic drives, visits to Skálanes Nature Reserve, and exploring the charming village.
  • Húsavík Shore Excursions :
  • Djúpivogur Shore Excursions :
  • Heimaey Shore Excursions :
  • Grundarfjörður Shore Excursions :

Planning Your Trip

When planning your trip to Iceland, consider the following tips to make the most of your experience:

Accommodation

Book your accommodation well in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the summer months. Iceland offers a range of options, from luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses and budget-friendly hostels.

Transportation

Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Iceland at your own pace. Ensure your rental car is suitable for the terrain and weather conditions. If you prefer not to drive, there are plenty of guided tours available.

Packing Essentials

  • Layered Clothing: The weather in Iceland can change rapidly, so pack layers to stay warm and dry.
  • Waterproof Gear: Waterproof jackets, pants, and sturdy boots are essential.
  • Swimwear: Don’t forget your swimsuit for a dip in the geothermal pools.
  • Camera: Capture the stunning landscapes and unforgettable moments.

Safety Tips

  • Check Weather Forecasts: Stay updated on the weather conditions and road closures.
  • Respect Nature: Follow local guidelines and respect the fragile natural environment.
  • Stay Informed: Pay attention to safety advisories and heed the advice of local authorities and guides.

Iceland offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience, no matter the season. By understanding the best time to visit and planning accordingly, you can make the most of your trip and create lasting memories. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights , exploring volcanic landscapes, or relaxing in geothermal spas, Iceland has something for everyone.

So, when is the best time to visit Iceland? The answer depends on what you want to experience. Each season offers its own unique charm and opportunities for adventure. Plan your trip carefully, and you’re sure to have an incredible journey through the land of fire and ice.

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The best time to visit Iceland

Skogafoss Iceland

When is the best time to visit Iceland?

Iceland is a beautiful country and one that has only grown in popularity over the past decade. The truth, however, is that the best time to visit Iceland depends on the trip you want to book.

The lure of Iceland ranges from the northern lights to its famous hot springs and incredible natural beauty.

We’ve gathered the high and low seasons, and when’s best for what so that you have an understanding of what you’ll get out of each month of the year.

High season: June to August and late December Shoulder seasons: May and September Low season: November to April, excluding school and public holidays

Gullfoss Geysir Iceland

When is the worst time to visit Iceland?

Again, this depends on what you’re looking to get out of your trip. If you want to avoid the maddening crowds, we recommend not visiting during the high season, which runs from June to August and late December.

What months are the warmest in Iceland?

June through August are the warmest months, which coincides with Iceland’s high season. You can expect lots of tourists enjoying the country; however, if you’re looking to go whale watching or enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking on those long summer days, this is the right time to visit.

When is the best time to visit Iceland for the Northern Lights?

You’re never guaranteed to see the Northern Lights, but your best bet is between November and March when the nights are long and dark. You need a clear sky, a surge in solar activity and a relatively remote location to get the best glimpse of the aurora borealis. We recommend the Snæfellsnes Peninsula , which offers an isolated position and an excellent vantage point to see the Northern Lights.

Northern Lights in Iceland

When is the best time to visit Iceland for whale watching?

The whale watching season coincides with the high season in Iceland . You can whale watch from April to September, with June through August being the best months.

When is the cheapest time to go to Iceland?

The cheapest time to visit Iceland is during the low season, which runs from November to April. There are fewer tourists too, which means flights, hotels , and any other rentals will be at a lower price point.

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The Best Time to Visit Iceland: Winter vs Summer

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the best time to visit iceland

One of my favourite countries in the world, I love Iceland. The land of fire and ice captivated me since the first time I visited in 2021. It’s such a beautiful country with stunning nature, But with such diverse landscapes and even more diverse weather, it can be a little bit tough trying to work out the best time to visit Iceland.

skogafoss in winter - the best time to visit iceland

Choosing the right time to visit Iceland will make all the difference to your trip. Visiting Iceland in summer or winter is literally like seeing two different countries. The landscapes change dramatically. Whether you want to bask in the glow of the midnight sun or chase the elusive northern lights Iceland’s calendar is a palette of possibilities – each season will bring you something new. 

So, let’s dive into the depths of Iceland’s many seasons and, hopefully, by the end of this article, you’ll have a much better idea of when to visit Iceland.

The Best Time to Visit Iceland: Iceland in Winter (December to February)

Our first time in Iceland was in December. To be honest, it was everything I’d expected from Icelandic weather – snowy scenery, chilly winds, rain, and dark nights. But, it was also perfect. 

We experienced some absolutely incredible scenery. The waterfalls fringed with snow were out of this world, the bleak black beach was eerily beautiful, and, although we had to wrap up warm against the cold wind and got completely drenched a couple of times when the heavens opened, we had the BEST time.

wintery gulfoss falls

If you decide to visit Iceland in winter, prepare for shorter days (around the 21st of December, Iceland experiences as little as 3 hours of daylight), cold weather, and a much higher chance of seeing the northern lights. 

In fact, winter is the best time to visit Iceland to see the Northern Lights because of the limited daylight. The dark skies create the perfect backdrop for the aurora, so, if you dream of chasing the lights in Iceland, winter might be the perfect time to visit. 

Things to do in Iceland in winter

  • Go on a glacier hike
  • Chase the northern li ghts
  • Visit J okulsarlo n Glacier Lagoon
  • Visit the Golden Circle
  • Soak in the B lue Lagoon under the stars
  • Tour an ice c ave

Average temperatures and weather conditions during winter

During the winter months in Iceland, which typically span from December to February, you can expect a cold and often unpredictable climate. The average temperatures can vary significantly depending on the region you’re in and the specific time of the season. Here’s an overview of average temperatures and general weather conditions during winter in Iceland:

Reykjavik and South Coast:

  • December: Average High: 38°F (3°C), Average Low: 28°F (-2°C)
  • January: Average High: 36°F (2°C), Average Low: 27°F (-3°C)
  • February: Average High: 36°F (2°C), Average Low: 28°F (-2°C)

Expect cold temperatures, occasional snowfall, and windy conditions. Days are short, with limited daylight hours.

North and East Iceland:

  • December: Average High: 32°F (0°C), Average Low: 22°F (-6°C)
  • January: Average High: 30°F (-1°C), Average Low: 20°F (-7°C)
  • February: Average High: 30°F (-1°C), Average Low: 20°F (-7°C)

The north experiences colder temperatures and a higher likelihood of snow. Coastal areas may experience milder conditions due to the influence of the North Atlantic Current.

Interior and Highland Regions:

  • December: Average High: 27°F (-3°C), Average Low: 14°F (-10°C)
  • January: Average High: 25°F (-4°C), Average Low: 12°F (-11°C)
  • February: Average High: 25°F (-4°C), Average Low: 13°F (-11°C)

The interior and highland areas experience the coldest temperatures and heaviest snowfall. These regions are often inaccessible due to road closures and challenging conditions.

Church, Reykjavik, Iceland

When visiting Iceland in winter, make sure to pack appropriate winter clothing, including insulated layers, waterproof outerwear, sturdy boots, gloves, and a hat. Additionally, renting a 4×4 vehicle is recommended if you plan to explore beyond urban areas, as road conditions can be challenging, especially in more remote regions.

Top Tip: Iceland’s weather can be highly variable and change rapidly. Storms, strong winds, and rapid temperature fluctuations are common, so be prepared for shifting conditions. When we were there, we experienced very heavy rain for about 15 minutes, then the sun came out for the rest of the day!

Festivals and events

Iceland in winter isn’t just about the breathtaking landscapes; it’s also a time for festive celebrations and unique events that showcase the country’s rich culture and traditions. Here are some of the events that make winter one of the best times to visit Iceland.

  • Christmas Markets (December) : Reykjavik and other towns come alive with festive Christmas markets, offering a magical atmosphere and a chance to shop for handmade crafts, local delicacies, and unique gifts.
  • New Year’s Eve Celebrations: While not a festival, Iceland’s New Year’s Eve celebrations are legendary. Locals light up the night sky with fireworks, creating a stunning display that illuminates the darkness. 
  • Winter Lights Festival (February): Held in Reykjavik, this festival celebrates the growing daylight after the darkest days of winter. The city is illuminated with colourful lights, and various cultural events, performances, and art installations take place throughout the city.
  • Þorrablót (January – February): Þorrablót is a traditional midwinter festival that celebrates Icelandic heritage and cuisine. It features a feast of traditional foods, including fermented shark, dried fish, and other Icelandic delicacies. The festival includes live music and dancing, creating a lively and memorable experience.

Pros and cons of visiting Iceland in winter

So, is winter the best time to visit Iceland? It certainly offers a unique and enchanting experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Here are a few pros and cons to help you ko what to expect:

  • Northern Lights: Winter is the prime time for witnessing the captivating Northern Lights, so if this is your goal, it’s definitely the best time to visit Iceland.
  • Fewer Crowds: Compared to the summer months, winter sees MUCH (I am not exaggerating)  fewer tourists. This means Iceland’s more popular attractions won’t be overcrowded.
  • Magical Winter Landscapes: Snow-covered landscapes, frozen waterfalls, and snowfall create a breathtaking winter wonderland.
  • Unique Activities: Winter opens up a range of unique activities, including ice cave exploration and snowmobiling.
  • Festive Atmosphere: Embrace the holiday spirit with Christmas markets, winter festivals, and the chance to experience Icelandic traditions like the Þorrablót midwinter feast.
  • Cheaper Prices: Since winter is less popular than summer (due to the limited daylight and colder conditions), you’ll often find cheaper prices on flights and accommodation.
  • Challenging Weather: Winter weather in Iceland can be harsh, with unpredictable storms, strong winds, and rapidly changing conditions that may affect your plans.
  • Limited Daylight: Daylight hours can be as little as 3 hours per day. This can impact the amount of time you have for sightseeing – we ended up having to see a few places in the dark!
  • Road Conditions: Snow and ice-covered roads can make driving challenging, especially in rural and remote areas. Renting a 4×4 vehicle and monitoring road conditions is essential.
  • Accessibility: Some areas, particularly in the highlands, might be inaccessible due to road closures and the difficulty of navigating through snow-covered terrains.
  • Limited Wildlife Sightings: While you may still have the chance to spot some wildlife, many species migrate or hibernate during the winter, making wildlife sightings less common

Glacier in iceland in winter - the best time to visit iceland

Iceland in winter in a nutshell – Is winter the best time to visit Iceland?

In summary, visiting Iceland in winter offers a magical and unique adventure. You’ll have a chance of seeing the Northern Lights, and be able to do things like ice caving and snowmobiling that you can’t do during other times of the year. However, you’ll need to be prepared for challenging weather conditions, shorter daylight hours, and potential travel disruptions. Careful planning and a willingness to embrace the conditions will help you make the most of your winter adventure in Iceland.

The Best Time to Visit Iceland: Iceland in Spring (March to May)

In spring, Iceland is awakening from its long slumber. As the snow melts and the days grow longer, the country bursts into colour and life. With the warming temperatures and lengthening daylight hours, the landscapes gradually come alive with vibrant colours and new growth. As the snow melts, waterfalls roar with newfound intensity, and wildflowers paint the meadows with delicate colours.

It’s also a great season for wildlife. Whales return to the waters, and puffins fly in to begin nesting. The temperatures are not what I’d call warm, but they certainly begin to creep above freezing in most places, and you can participate in many more outdoor activities.  

lingering snow in iceland in spring

However, the weather in Iceland in spring can still be a little unpredictable. Rain is much more frequent than snow at this time of year – and it’s also more frequent than a completely dry day! As such, you’ll definitely need your waterproof. And I recommend a fleece jacket too as temperatures can still get chilly.

But, while the weather might be a little soggy, in return, you’ll be treated to cheaper flights, accommodation, and much fewer crowds. Spring is peak shoulder season in Iceland, and visiting at this time of year will strain your pursestrings much less than the summer months. It’s pretty much the perfect transition between winter and summer!

Things to do in Iceland in spring

  • Go on a puffi n-watching tour
  • Drive the Golden Circle
  • Drive around Iceland’s ring road
  • Go whale-watching
  • Go scuba-diving between tectonic plates
  • Soak in hot springs

Average temperatures and weather conditions during spring

During the spring months in Iceland, which typically span from March to May, you can expect milder temperatures and a gradual awakening of the natural world after the winter months. However, as with the winter months, the weather in Iceland can be quite variable, and conditions can change quickly. Here’s an overview of temperatures and what you can expect from the weather during spring in Iceland:

  • March: Average High: 39°F (4°C), Average Low: 30°F (-1°C)
  • April: Average High: 43°F (6°C), Average Low: 32°F (0°C)
  • May: Average High: 49°F (9°C), Average Low: 37°F (3°C)

Weather: Spring brings gradually increasing temperatures and longer daylight hours. Rain and wind are common, so be prepared for varying weather conditions.

  • March: Average High: 36°F (2°C), Average Low: 26°F (-3°C)
  • April: Average High: 41°F (5°C), Average Low: 28°F (-2°C)
  • May: Average High: 47°F (8°C), Average Low: 33°F (1°C)

The north is similar to the south, with increasing temperatures and daylight hours. Coastal areas may experience milder conditions due to the North Atlantic Current.

  • March: Average High: 30°F (-1°C), Average Low: 19°F (-7°C)
  • April: Average High: 34°F (1°C), Average Low: 22°F (-6°C)
  • May: Average High: 40°F (4°C), Average Low: 28°F (-2°C)

The highland areas remain cooler, with lingering snow and limited accessibility to certain regions. Spring marks the beginning of some road openings.

hot springs in iceland

During spring, you can expect more moderate and pleasant temperatures compared to the colder months of winter. It’s a great time to explore the countryside, embark on outdoor adventures, and witness the reawakening of Iceland’s flora and fauna. However, it’s still advisable to pack warm clothing, waterproof layers, and sturdy footwear to stay comfortable and prepared for varying weather conditions.

Spring in Iceland brings a sense of renewal and cultural vibrancy, marked by a variety of festivals and events that celebrate the changing season and Icelandic traditions. Here are a few of the events that make spring such a great time to visit Iceland:

  • Easter Celebrations (March – April): Easter is an important holiday in Iceland, marked by various religious and cultural events. Many towns and cities host Easter markets, egg hunts, and spring decorations.
  • First Day of Summer (April): Known as “Sumardagurinn fyrsti,” this national holiday marks the arrival of warmer weather and longer daylight hours. And after Iceland’s harsh winters, I don’t blame the locals for wanting to celebrate!
  • Reykjavik Folk Festival (April): This event celebrates folk music and provides a platform for both Icelandic and international folk artists to showcase their talents.
  • Viking Festival (May): Hafnarfjörður, a town near Reykjavik, hosts a Viking Festival that offers a glimpse into Iceland’s Viking heritage. Participants dress in Viking attire, reenact scenes from history, and showcase traditional crafts and activities.

Pros and Cons of visiting Iceland in spring

For the perfect in-between seasons, Spring is easily one I frequently recommend when people ask when is the best time to visit Iceland.  But, here are a few of the pros and cons to help you make up your mind.

  • Transforming Landscapes: The landscapes come alive with vibrant colours, blossoming flowers, and the gradual melting of winter’s snow and ice.
  • Moderate Temperatures: Spring brings much milder temperatures compared to winter, making outdoor activities more comfortable.
  • Extended Daylight: Spring brings longer daylight hours, allowing for more time to explore Iceland’s natural wonders.
  • Puffin Watching: Spring marks the return of a lot of wildlife, including puffins, to coastal cliffs, This is the best time to visit Iceland if you’re a bird or wildlife enthusiast.
  • Fewer Tourists: Spring sees fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months, meaning sights are less crowded.
  • Cultural Festivals: Experience unique Icelandic festivals including Easter, folk music, and the first day of summer.
  • Unpredictable Weather: Spring weather can be quite variable, with rapid changes from sunshine to rain or even snow in some places. It’s essential to be prepared for all weather. conditions.
  • Limited Accessibility: While some highland roads open, certain areas may still be inaccessible due to lingering snow, limiting the extent of your exploration.
  • Road Conditions: Roads may still be icy or wet in some areas, requiring caution while driving, especially on gravel roads.
  • Spring Showers: Frequent rain showers are common during spring, so having waterproof clothing and gear is essential.

iceland holidays best time to visit

Iceland in spring in a nutshell – Is spring the best time to visit Iceland?

Visiting Iceland in spring offers a balance between emerging natural beauty and the lingering traces of winter. While the weather can be changeable, the opportunity to witness the country’s reawakening and participate in local celebrations make it a rewarding time to explore this enchanting country.

The Best Time to Visit Iceland: Iceland in Summer (June to August)

Okay, let’s talk about the peak time. Summer is without doubt the most popular time to visit the country with tourists flocking in from far and wide. But, is it the best time to visit Iceland? I suppose it depends on what you want.

With the warmer temperatures, snow-capped mountains give way to lush valleys, vibrant wildflowers, and stunning waterfalls in full flow. Summer offers the ideal conditions to explore many of Iceland’s outdoor attractions, embark on exhilarating glacier hikes, and witness the puffin colonies that grace the coastal cliffs. As the Midnight Sun paints the skies with hues of pink and gold, you’ll have ample time for adventures, from soaking in geothermal hot springs to traversing black sand beaches and capturing the awe-inspiring beauty of the Icelandic highlands.

skogafoss in summer

But all this beauty comes at a cost. In fact, a pretty huge one as both prices and crowds soar in summer in Iceland. Accommodation rates skyrocket, and popular attractions that were once peacefully secluded become bustling hotspots. The pristine serenity that defines Iceland’s other seasons is replaced by the buzz of fellow travellers, especially around the Golden Circle and along the Ring Road. 

Advance planning becomes essential, not only to secure accommodation and tours (they can sell out quickly!) but also to navigate the increased traffic and potential congestion at popular sites. Plus, while the weather is generally more agreeable, Iceland’s climate can still be unpredictable, with occasional rain and rapidly changing conditions. 

Yet, for those willing to embrace the bustling energy and prepare for the associated costs, and occasional rain showers, Iceland’s summer will reward you with unparalleled landscapes and the chance to experience the country at its vibrant best.

Things to do in Iceland in summer

  • Experience the midnight sun
  • Explore the Golden Circle
  • Go whale watching
  • Go hiking and trekking (the Icelandic highlands are great places to go hiking in the summer months)
  • Snorkel between the tectonic plates
  • Hike up a volcano
  • Go on off-road adventures
  • Explore the black sand beache s
  • Soak in hot springs and geothermal pools

Average temperatures and weather conditions during summer

During the summer months in Iceland, which typically span from June to August, the country experiences milder and more comfortable temperatures compared to the colder seasons. Nonetheless, Iceland is a little like England, where you never can really escape the possibility of rain! Here’s a quick overview of the temperatures during summer in Iceland:

  • June: Average High: 51°F (11°C), Average Low: 44°F (7°C)
  • July: Average High: 54°F (12°C), Average Low: 47°F (8°C)
  • August: Average High: 54°F (12°C), Average Low: 47°F (8°C)

Summer brings relatively mild temperatures, longer daylight hours, and a mix of sun and rain. While rain is common, you can also experience sunny days.

  • June: Average High: 50°F (10°C), Average Low: 41°F (5°C)
  • July: Average High: 54°F (12°C), Average Low: 45°F (7°C)
  • August: Average High: 54°F (12°C), Average Low: 45°F (7°C)

The north is similar to the south, with milder temperatures and variable weather patterns including rain and occasional sunny spells.

  • June: Average High: 46°F (8°C), Average Low: 37°F (3°C)
  • July: Average High: 51°F (11°C), Average Low: 41°F (5°C)
  • August: Average High: 51°F (11°C), Average Low: 41°F (5°C)

Highland areas experience cooler temperatures in summer, and some snow and ice might still be present at higher elevations. Access to certain highland regions may be limited early in the season.

lupins blooming in iceland in summer

While summer in Iceland is generally milder, the weather can still be quite unpredictable, and change rapidly. Rain showers are common, and it’s recommended to pack waterproof and layered clothing to stay comfortable during your outdoor activities. But the silver lining is that the extended daylight hours allow for more flexibility in planning your itinerary so if you get caught in a rain shower, you might just be able to wait it out and carry on exploring after it’s passed!

Summer is just as culturally vibrant as spring with an array of festivals and things to expect during the warmer months. Here are some of the top festivals in summer in Iceland:

  • Icelandic National Day (June 17th): Celebrate Iceland’s independence with lively parades, concerts, and festivities across the country, particularly in Reykjavik.
  • Arctic Open Golf Tournament (June): Play golf under the Midnight Sun at Akureyri’s Arctic Open, a unique golf tournament that takes place in the land of the midnight sun.
  • Hafnarfjörður Viking Festival (June – July): Similar to the earlier Viking Festival, Hafnarfjörður’s event provides an opportunity to experience Viking history through reenactments, workshops, and traditional Viking food.
  • Reykjavik Pride (August): Celebrate diversity and LGBTQ+ rights in Reykjavik’s colourful Pride parade, accompanied by various events, parties, and cultural activities.
  • Reykjavik Jazz Festival (August – September): Jazz enthusiasts can enjoy an array of performances and jam sessions featuring local and international jazz musicians.

Pros and Cons of visiting Iceland in summer

So, is the busiest time of the year the best time to visit Iceland? Here are some of the pros and cons of visiting Iceland in the summer.

  • Midnight Sun: Experience the surreal beauty of the Midnight Sun, and perhaps even participate in midnight activities!
  • Mild Weather: Summer brings Iceland’s best weather – the milder temperatures, making outdoor activities more enjoyable.
  • Lush Landscapes: Meadows bloom with colourful wildflowers and lush vegetation and Iceland is at its greenest.
  • Abundant Wildlife: Summer brings the return of migratory birds, puffins, and other wildlife, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife photography.
  • Highland Access: Many highland areas become accessible, allowing you to explore remote and stunning landscapes that are otherwise inaccessible during other seasons.
  • Festivals and Events: Immerse yourself in Icelandic culture through a variety of festivals and music events.
  • Ease of Travel: Roads that are challenging or closed in winter become accessible, enabling you to explore deeper into the country.
  • Popular Sites Crowded: Summer is the peak tourist season, leading to larger crowds at popular attractions. Iconic sites like the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, and waterfalls may be very busy, requiring patience and strategic timing for a more serene experience.
  • Much Higher Prices: Summer is also by far the most expensive time to visit Iceland with accommodation and flight prices almost tripling compared to what they are off-season.
  • Limited Accommodation: Due to high demand, accommodations can fill up quickly, requiring early booking and potentially limiting your options.
  • Less Pristine Wilderness: The increase in visitors can impact the sense of isolation and solitude in more popular areas, reducing the feeling of untouched wilderness.
  • Light Disruption: While the Midnight Sun is magical, it can disrupt sleep patterns if you’re unaccustomed to the constant daylight.

black sand beach in summer

Iceland in summer in a nutshell – Is summer the best time to visit Iceland?

Overall, visiting Iceland in summer allows you to explore its stunning landscapes and participate in vibrant cultural events under the enchanting Midnight Sun. However, the larger crowds and higher costs can be pretty off-putting. During the peak season, travel to Iceland will require careful planning and flexibility to make the most of your time. 

If I’m being brutally honest, I’m not sure it’s worth it. Yes, you can see beautiful landscapes, but you can also see that during the shoulder seasons, particularly May and October. And those come without such a daunting price tag and so many other people jostling for the same photo. Of course, this is just my opinion, and summer in Iceland is definitely beautiful. But, is it the best time to visit Iceland? Perhaps not.

The Best Time to Visit Iceland: Iceland in Autumn (September to November)

Autumn, however, is easily a strong contender for the best time to visit Iceland. The crowds are dwindling, but the weather is still mild and you’ll have a chance to witness Iceland in its golden autumn era. 

Autumn is an ideal time for hiking, as trails are less crowded and the vibrant greens of summer to rich hues of gold, orange, and red. The changing foliage adds a breathtaking backdrop to your adventures. The crisp air lends a cosy atmosphere, making it an ideal time for exploring iconic sites like the Golden Circle and the south coast, where fewer tourists allow for a more pleasant experience.

iceland in autumn, the best time to visit iceland

As the nights grow longer, the Northern Lights begin their mesmerizing dance across the sky – typically around mid-October onwards. It’s also a time of harvest, and you can savour this year’s crop of delicious foods and attend cultural festivals that celebrate the harvest. I love autumn and, for me, it is the best time to visit Iceland.

Things to do in Iceland in autumn

  • Go hiking (trails such as Fimmvörðuháls and Reykjadalur have great foliage in autumn)
  • Visit the Blue Lagoo n
  • Glacier hiking
  • Go horse riding
  • Visit local markets
  • Visit ice caves (some become accessible in late autumn)
  • Watch the farmers gathering sheep and horses in for winter

Average temperatures and weather conditions during autumn

During the autumn months in Iceland, which typically span from September to November, the country experiences cooler temperatures and the gradual transition from the vibrant colours of summer to the serene beauty of winter. Here’s an overview of average temperatures and general weather conditions during autumn in different regions of Iceland:

  • September: Average High: 52°F (11°C), Average Low: 43°F (6°C)
  • October: Average High: 45°F (7°C), Average Low: 37°F (3°C)
  • November: Average High: 39°F (4°C), Average Low: 32°F (0°C)

Autumn brings cooler temperatures, rain showers, and shorter daylight hours. Still expect quite varied weather as the country transitions from mild to colder as the season progresses.

  • September: Average High: 50°F (10°C), Average Low: 41°F (5°C)
  • October: Average High: 43°F (6°C), Average Low: 35°F (2°C)
  • November: Average High: 36°F (2°C), Average Low: 29°F (-2°C)

Similar to the south, you’ll experience decreasing temperatures and a mix of rain and colder conditions as autumn advances.

  • September: Average High: 46°F (8°C), Average Low: 37°F (3°C)
  • October: Average High: 39°F (4°C), Average Low: 31°F (-1°C)
  • November: Average High: 33°F (1°C), Average Low: 25°F (-4°C)

Expect cooler temperatures, snowfall in higher elevations, and the transition to winter conditions in the interior and highlands.

iceland in autumn

Autumn in Iceland offers a cooler and more tranquil atmosphere compared to the bustling summer months. While the weather can be unpredictable with a mix of rain, wind, and even snow in higher elevations, the changing colours of the landscapes, fewer tourists, and the chance to witness the transition between seasons make it a special time to explore the country’s natural beauty. I recommend dressing in layers and packing appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions.

Autumn events in Iceland are mainly focused on the harvest, changing seasons, and preparation for winter. Here are some of the top festivals in Iceland in autumn:

  • Reykjavik International Film Festival (RIFF) (September – October): Experience a showcase of international and Icelandic cinema, with screenings, panels, and discussions spanning a variety of genres.
  • Icelandic Horse Roundup (September – October): Witness the annual gathering of Icelandic horses from their summer pastures, a tradition celebrated with festive events, horse shows, and equestrian competitions.
  • Iceland Airwaves (November): One of Iceland’s most famous music festivals, Iceland Airwaves brings together a diverse lineup of musicians and bands in venues across Reykjavik.
  • Autumn Markets and Fairs: Throughout autumn, various markets and fairs offer a chance to sample local foods, crafts, and artisanal goods, providing insights into Icelandic culture and traditions.

Pros and Cons of visiting Iceland in autumn

Visiting Iceland in autumn can be a pretty incredible experience. It’s such an incredible time to visit the country and well worthy of the best time to visit Iceland. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of travelling to Iceland at this time of year:

  • Autumn Landscapes: Witness the stunning transition of Iceland’s landscapes as they transform into the gorgeous red, orange, and gold hues of autumn.
  • Fewer Crowds: Experience popular attractions and natural wonders with much fewer tourists compared to summer.
  • Northern Lights: As darkness returns, autumn brings increased opportunities to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
  • Cultural Events: Immerse yourself in various festivals and cultural events, celebrating literature, music, film, and local traditions.
  • Mild Weather: Although you’ll experience cooler temperatures they are still comfortable for outdoor activities, making it an ideal time for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.
  • Affordable Accommodations: Accommodation prices drop compared to the peak summer season, providing much better value.
  • Local Cuisine: Savor the flavours of Icelandic cuisine, including fresh seafood, seasonal ingredients, and traditional dishes, during harvest and food festivals.
  • Variable Weather: Autumn weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, with a mix of rain, wind, and occasional snow, necessitating flexible clothing and travel plans.
  • Road Conditions: Some highland roads and trails may become inaccessible as autumn turns to winter and snowfall begins.
  • Changing Accessibility: As the weather cools, access to certain attractions and hiking trails may become more challenging or restricted.
  • Less Vibrant Wildlife: While still present, some wildlife species may begin migrating or becoming less active as they prepare for winter.

icelandic horses - the best time to visit iceland

Iceland in autumn in a nutshell – Is autumn the best time to visit Iceland?

So, are you convinced that autumn is the best time to visit Iceland? Whilst each season has its pros and cons, I absolutely love autumn in Iceland and think it’s an incredible time to visit. While the weather may require some flexibility and preparation (but, I mean, this is the case all the time in Iceland), the rewards include a serene atmosphere, vibrant landscapes, and the chance to engage with local traditions and experiences.

Overall, what is the best time to visit Iceland?

The best time to visit Iceland truly depends on your preferences and the experiences you seek.

  • Summer (June to August) offers endless daylight, vibrant landscapes, and a wide range of activities. It’s ideal for outdoor adventures and festivals, but it’s also the busiest and most expensive season. 
  • Autumn (September to November) showcases the colourful transition of landscapes. You’ll be met with fewer crowds, cultural events, and the chance to see the Northern Lights.
  • Winter (December to February) offers the magical allure of snow-covered landscapes, Northern Lights displays, and unique ice cave explorations.
  • Spring (March to May) presents milder weather, emerging wildlife, and fewer tourists. But some areas may still be inaccessible.

My personal opinion is that autumn or spring is the best time to visit Iceland. But I also love winter scenery too for a snowy escape. Summer is just too crowded and expensive for me, this is the same for most seasons which is why I typically travel off-peak. 

Nonetheless, each season offers its own unique charm and activities, so choosing the best time to visit Iceland depends on what you’re looking for.  But, whether it’s the bustling energy of summer, the tranquillity of autumn, the reawakening of spring, or the enchantment of winter’s icy scenery, Iceland is sure to stun you with its landscapes and beauty. 

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

  • SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
  • BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
  • SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
  • DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
  • OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
  • GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
  • AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Some of the links above may be affiliate links that earn me a commission at no extra cost to you. If you purchase through my links – thank you so much! I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

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Alice Smith is a travel blogger, content creator, and founder of Adventures of Alice. Following an unexpected redundancy, she embraced her passions and turned her hobby of travel blogging into a full-time career.

Based in the UK, she's ventured to over 30 countries since 2016. With a passion for the outdoors and going off-the-beaten-path, Alice is on a mission to show that budget travel can still be luxurious and that every destination, no matter how touristy, holds hidden gems.

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These are the best times to visit Iceland

Erika Owen

Part of Iceland 's immense charm is its weather — the spontaneous force that controls all activity for people living on (and visiting) the island nation. A matter of a few minutes can turn your sunny-day adventure into an afternoon spent waiting on the side of the road for a blizzard to pass. And while some may view that as a total vacation bummer, I prefer to think of it as an opportunity to fully experience the Land of Ice and Fire.

As someone who has a serious interest in Iceland and visits multiple times every year, I've quickly learned to appreciate Iceland during all its seasons and wild weather patterns — and figured out the best itineraries for all situations.

Ahead, you'll find the best times to visit Iceland based on a number of factors: budget, high and low tourist season, weather and more.

(Photo by Chris Lawton/Unsplash)

The cheapest times to visit Iceland

If you don't really care about weather-specific activities, my advice is to take advantage of the shoulder seasons in spring and fall when crowds are thin and accommodations are cheaper (think: March, April, September and October). There are often cheaper flights during these time periods as well.

TPG is constantly scouring flight deals and we've recently seen prices under $300 for round-trip flights between Boston and Reykjavik on low-cost Icelandic airline Play .

Related: Great fall, winter and early spring deals on flights to Iceland

Naturally, flights to Iceland during the winter are going to be the cheapest, aside from the main holidays like Christmas and New Year's (ticket prices skyrocket during those weeks), but in terms of value, consider visiting in the spring. Even if you pay a bit more, you may get more value given the more mild weather and longer daylight hours.

Icelandair's new Boeing 737 MAX 8 plane in Iceland. (Photo by Pall Jokull for Icelandair/The Brooklyn Brothers via Getty Images)

When to visit Iceland to avoid crowds

If you're looking to take in the sights without hundreds of other strangers, look again to the off months of March, April, September and October. Since the weather is a bit more erratic than it is during the summer, fewer travelers take the risk.

If good weather is not on your list of things you care about, head to Iceland in the dead of winter (December, January or February). It's going to be colder, but that and the extremely short days keep the crowds at bay.

When to visit Iceland for events

Music festivals in iceland.

There are a number of festivals to keep in mind while planning your trip to Iceland. For the musically inclined, check out Iceland Airwaves in November, the Reykjavík Jazz Festival in August, Aldrei fór ég Suður in April, Secret Solstice in June or the four-day rock and metal festival, Eistnaflug , in July.

Atmosphere at Iceland Airwaves Blue Lagoon Chill Party. (Photo by Nicky Digital/http://NickyDigital.com/Corbis via Getty Images)

Art, film and culture festivals in Iceland

For arts and culture, there's the Reykjavík International Film Festival in September and October and the LungA Art Festival in July.

If you've done your research on the Icelandic sagas, plan a trip over the first Friday after Jan. 19 to partake in the Thorrablot celebrations. This mid-winter festival brings locals and travelers together to dine on the unusual foods of Iceland's past like fermented shark, boiled sheep's head and congealed sheep's blood wrapped in a ram's stomach.

Icelanders also celebrate the summer solstice, which occurs over June 21. With nearly 24 hours of sunlight, the bonfire celebrations go late into the night.

Related: 9 common mistakes you don't want to make in Iceland

The best times for whale watching in Iceland

During the winter, it can be hard to spot any kind of wildlife in Iceland, given the harsh climate. If you're looking to spot migrating whales passing by, plan a trip between April and October — otherwise known as prime time for whale spotting. You can catch sight of minke, humpback, sperm, and fin whales, along with orcas, and there are plenty of tours on the Reykjavík Harbor that will take you to the best locations.

Whale watching in Húsavík, Iceland. (Photo by Davide Cantelli/Unsplash)

The best times to see puffins in Iceland

iceland holidays best time to visit

There are a few excellent spots to see Iceland's most adorable bird in its natural habitat, but no matter where you plan to go puffin-spotting, the best time to do it is between April and August.

You'll find the largest puffin colony in the world on the Westman Islands, known as Vestmannaeyjar in Icelandic. You can even arrange a minibus tour where a local guide will share the history of the islands and take you to some of the local puffin hot spots.

Related: 7 things to do on your next trip to Iceland

The Látrabjarg cliffs in the Westfjords provide a picturesque locale for seeing puffins and, along with them, millions of other birds who call the cliffs home, including razorbills and northern gannets.

Two animals you will see no matter when you visit: sheep and horses, and lots of them. Wool textiles are a huge part of the country's retail market and exports, while Icelandic horses have become a key player in the area's tourism industry — horse rides across the countryside have become a popular bucket list item for the animal's distinct "fifth gait."

Sheep grazing in an old lava field overgrown with vegetation in Budir on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula in western Iceland. (Photo by Wolfgang Kaehler/LightRocket via Getty Images)

The best times to hike in Iceland

Summertime is easily the best time to go hiking in Iceland, but it will also mean busier trails. To really get away from the crowds, you can hire a private guide who will bring you to some lesser-known hikes in the highlands, but this region is only accessible during snow-free months.

There are hiking trails open during the wintertime, but they will be less challenging (despite the blowing winds and heavy precipitation, of course). You can find hiking just about anywhere during any time of the year if you do the research. There are plenty of opportunities to take a stroll around almost all of the major attractions, from Pingvellir National Park and the waterfalls along Route 1 in the south to Reykjanes Peninsula and the famous Búðakirkja: a lone black church that sits on a lava field.

ICELAND - DECEMBER 09: Tourists walk through a rift in Thingvellir National Park. The park is part of the popular Golden Circle Tour. (Photo by Melanie Stetson Freeman/The Christian Science Monitor via Getty Images)

Consider your priorities: Do you want to hike through the Highlands or into some of the trickier areas of the north? Plan your travel for June, July or August. Are you more interested in snowshoeing or glacier walking? Find a tour company to take you to some of the prettiest spots during December, January or February. All other months offer great hikes, it just depends on the weather forecast for the day.

The best times to cycle in Iceland

Cycling the Ring Road is ambitious, but the views make it all worthwhile. Plan your trip during the summertime — preferably late June — for the most daylight. The sun stays up practically around the clock during this season, making it easy to bike long into the night without worrying about visibility. But don't forget your eye mask if you actually want to sleep.

Route 1 Iceland aka Ring Road through Geysir, Iceland. (Photo by Kalle Kortelainen/Unsplash)

The best times to drive around Iceland

Let's settle one thing: You can drive around Iceland during any time of the year, you're just going to have different types of weather to worry about. You must choose if you want a leisurely, sunny road trip or if you are just looking to get from Point A to Point B. If you anticipate any snow during your trip, make sure your car has four-wheel drive. You will thank yourself over and over again.

Driving through the snow can be brutal. (Photo by Robert Bye/Unsplash)

It may seem obvious, but if you want a true road trip, go during the summertime when sunlight is abundant. Book your road trip around Iceland for July and you'll never regret it.

If you aren't afraid of driving through some true "winter weather" — hail, snow, blizzards, torrential downpours and a blip of sunlight all in the span of a few hours — you can drive in Iceland any month of the year. But the country will shut down the roads if they're impassable, so keep that in mind. For example, you won't be able to visit the highland region during the winter, or take some mountain road shortcuts.

The best weather for special activities

There are some things that can only be done during specific seasons in Iceland, which is part of what makes the destination so special. But if you're looking for hot springs, never fear: relaxing in a hot spring is a year-round activity.

A man made thermal pool in Southern Iceland uses diverted water from an underground hot spring and reaches temperatures close to 85 degrees F. (Photo by John Fredricks/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

You will definitely get the most out of your hikes if you plan a summer trip. Not only will the weather be better, but you can get access to the multi-colored landscapes of Laugavegur and the so-called Volcanic Trails in the Highlands.

Laugavegur, Iceland. (Photo by Michael Hacker/Unsplash)

In the colder months, you have the opportunity to get close to Iceland's famous, electric-blue glaciers. Glacier hikes, ice caves and iceberg spotting are all popular — and encouraged — activities during the winter.

The ice caves, especially, are a huge must if you're visiting during the winter, as they are completely inaccessible during the summertime. To visit them, you'll need a trained guide familiar with the region. Do not try and visit these on your own as the melting pattern can be unpredictable and extremely dangerous.

Another strictly wintertime activity is northern lights spotting. The aurora borealis will only appear under extremely dark, clear conditions between September and April; when the nights are long you have a better window of time each day when you can view them.

Exploring ice caves at night can lead you to the northern lights at certain times of year. Here, they are spotted in Gigjökull, Iceland. (Photo by Jonatan Pie/Unsplash)

Bottom line

There are some things in Iceland that can only be experienced during a certain season, meaning there truly is no bad time to visit the country. With that in mind, you should make a list of your vacation priorities. Looking to see the ice caves? You'll need to visit during the winter. Want to hike in the highlands? Again, that whittles down your travel options.

No matter when you choose to visit Iceland, though, you'll be treated to the country's unparalleled beauty, exciting outdoor activities and majestic wildlife.

+1 420-240-6000

Iceland.org

Best time to visit iceland and save money.

Iceland is a dream destination for many among the most popular countries in Europe because of her inimitable splendor.

Every year, thousands of people flock to Iceland’s breathtaking waterfalls, icy glaciers, snow-capped mountains, natural hot springs, and mystical ice caves to catch a glimpse of some of nature’s best kept secrets.

And if treasures on land fall short of satisfying your thirst for nature’s beauty, you could still head to the sea coast and catch a memory-etching glimpse of whales—the ocean’s gentle giants.

The shy, 9-meter Minke whales are the most common whale sighting in iceland . You can spot them from almost any whale watching port in Iceland, even in the capital Reykjavík. But Humpback whales, their attention-seeking counterparts, are no less common.

Then there are the Northern lights.

From antiquity, man has been a star-gazer. Depending on the time of visit, you can’t find a better place to see the dancing polar lights than in Iceland.

Yet timing is everything.

Especially if you want to have an unforgettable best bang-for-the-buck experience.That’s the reason we want to reveal to you the best time for visiting this beauty-packed, small island nation, and on a non bank-breaking budget.

Let’s delve in.

Iceland Is Not Very Cheap

Unless you’re Jay Z or Benard Arnault, chances are you live your life on a tight budget. Yet Iceland needs superior budgeting skills.

Even though cheap or expensive is ultimately in the eye of the beholder, a trip to Iceland is not the same thing as a trip to Bulgaria.

A 2020 country-rankings by Numbeo, the world’s largest cost of living database, placed Iceland as the third most expensive country to live in on the globe.

The ranking used such metrics as the cost of accommodation, transport, food, rent, and internet.

To put this in a relatable perspective, New York is notoriously expensive. Yet Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland, is still more expensive than New York.

That’s why you’ll appreciate these cost-saving suggestions. Leisure is not leisure if you have to constantly fret about the gaping hole in your pocket.

The Most Expensive Time To Visit Iceland

This should be your first money-saving step: to identify the most expensive time to visit Iceland and to schedule your visit in a way that makes you avoid that period.

June till August is consistently the most expensive period to visit Iceland. The reasons are obvious—a more tolerable climate during the summer months, and the onset of school holidays.

Yet there’s also the irresistible allure of the midnight sun that blazes through Iceland’s skyline every summertime for, in some places, a full 24 hours every single day!

Since these are the most popular months, the law of supply and demand that you were taught in high school, inexorably set in. The higher the demand—the higher the price.

Therefore, your wallet will be happier if you avoid this time of the year.

The Cheapest Time To Soak In Iceland’s Beauty

Since June to August is on-peak, any other time is off-peak and should be fine pocket-wise.

Still, you should avoid—guess which month—December.

And for obvious reasons as well. Santa Claus doesn’t want your dollar bill to be inside your pocket.

Although Iceland is not pricey in December just because of Santa Claus. Iceland is known as a winter wonderland. So people flock— and prices skyrocket.

That leaves us with September to November and January to May. If you visit Iceland during these odd months, you’ll be left all alone with the best of Iceland’s natural beauty.

It’s a win for your wallet and a win for an uncrowded experience.

So if you can’t visit Iceland during the summer months, don’t beat yourself up. This may not be the best time to visit Iceland after all.

There are many things you can see better when it’s also cheaper.

The Best Time To See The Northern Lights In Iceland

While visitors flock to Iceland because of the thrilling prospect of seeing the aurora borealis prancing gracefully through the coloured sky, the best time for this absolutely jaw-dropping vista is between September and April.

The good news is that these are also off-peak travel times, and hence—the cheapest times.

The best time to view this world-attracting spectacle is between 9:30 pm to 1:00 am. But you still can’t bank on weather conditions favouring you. Not in Iceland, nor in many other countries either. So you still have to pray that the weather will think kindly of you.

Best Time To Glide Through Ice-Caves

So long as the word “ice” comes before the “caves”, it’s a no-brainer that these super-stunning natural features can only be true to their name in the cold, ice-forming months of winter.

These months run from somewhere in the middle of October to the end of March. Many operators wait until November before they can begin the cave tours.

Do you know what that means?

You’ll certainly be making your trip in the off-season— which is the best time to visit Iceland if you want to save on money!

But which specific ice cave should top your priority list?

Even though there are many options, the impressive crystal-blue glacier ice-caves in Vatnajokull are, hands down, the bluest, the biggest and perhaps the most beautiful in all of Iceland.

Best Time (For the Wallet) To See The Midnight Sun

If you’re visiting Iceland in the summer, and you’ve heard about how the sun rises at 3.00 am and sets at midnight—if you don’t want to miss this out-of-the-world experience—you’re better off trying your luck in the shoulder season, especially early June.

During this time, schools aren’t yet closed and it’s on the fringe of the tourist season. Hence, tour operators have not yet hiked their prices to any significant degree.

Time for the Cheapest Air Ticket To Iceland

The weather may be brutal, but the upside is that the cost will be far much gentler, if you visit Iceland in February or March, regardless of your home country.

Other Cost-Saving Tips

If you’ve gone through this, you may even argue that the best time to visit Iceland— to see her bubbling hot springs, her glistening waterfalls—or to have a nerve-calming road trip along her world-famous golden circle towards the beauty-rich south coast, is in the low season.

Regardless of the time at which you travel, whether in early July, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve, you should consider these other cost-saving tips.

  • Beer can be costly in Iceland. While the cheapest option is to stay sober during your visit, you can also look out for the happy hours of Reykjavik’s bars.
  • Travelling can be costly, especially along Ring-Road. You can choose to avoid road trips and be marooned in Reykjavik . You’ll still enjoy the many city delights and even go for a whale watch.
  • Don’t go for the Ritz Carlton’s of Iceland. Instead, consider camping.
  • Choose a good but affordable tour company.

For the last point, have a look at some of the best Iceland tour companies .

Featured Image from: Flickr by Victor Montol

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Home » Europe » Best Time to Visit Iceland – MUST READ • 2024 Guide

Best Time to Visit Iceland – MUST READ • 2024 Guide

Iceland, the Land of Fire and Ice, is a land of extremes. From the midnight sun to the Northern Lights, and from striking volcanic landscapes to incredible wildlife, this far-flung island is a feast for the eyes.

Because the seasons vary so dramatically this far north, choosing the best time to visit Iceland is really going to depend on what you’re heading there to experience. But no season should be discounted as there’s plenty to see at any time of year.

While a visit to Iceland is off the well-worn tourist path, certain experiences and seasons attract a large number of tourists and should be booked well in advance.

Winters in Iceland are brutal, but if you’re well prepared with the right gear it can be a very rewarding time to visit, not only to see the Northern Lights. Hiking and whale-watching are best done in the summer when there are also loads of festivals to check out.

If you need help deciding on the best time to visit Iceland to get the experience you’re been dreaming of, read on. We’ve gathered all the details to help you choose that perfect time that balances cost, climate, and crowds.

Best Time To Visit Iceland – May-August

Best Time To Go To Reykjavik – September–October

Best Time To See the Northern Lights  – October-November

Best Time To Do the Golden Circle  – Spring (May–June), autumn (September–October)

Best Time For Sightseeing – May–mid-June, September

Cheapest Time To Visit Iceland – Spring (May–June), autumn (September–October)

When is the Best Time to Go to Iceland?

When to visit iceland – a month by month breakdown, faq about the best time to visit iceland, final thoughts on the best time to visit iceland.

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The best time to go to Iceland for great weather is during the summer, between May and August. The days are at their longest, so you can cram plenty more sightseeing in, and the temperatures are pleasant and mild. 

This is also the peak tourist season for backpacking Iceland , so prepare for large crowds of tourists at sightseeing spots and attractions, not to mention the increase in prices for hotel rooms and flights. Of course Iceland is never cheap even in low season.

Late spring and early autumn offer a great compromise – all the benefits of mild weather without the peak season crowds and inflated costs. April to May and September to October offer this perfect balance – ideal for sightseeing. Yes, the days are slightly shorter and it may be a little cooler, but your reward will be a far more relaxed and budget-friendly experience. 

For me, it’s the perfect place to explore in October !

Gulfoss Iceland

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Whale-watching is best enjoyed between April and October – this is the peak season for travel, so make sure to plan and book well in advance. It is still possible to see whales outside of the summer season in certain regions, providing there aren’t any storm conditions. You’ll likely be given a thermal suit to protect you from the icy temperatures.

The northern lights are a popular reason for travel to Iceland. Usually, you can see these from around late September until March when the nights are darkest. Precipitation and cloud cover are not ideal for seeing the northern lights, so months where there’s less chance of cloud cover are ideal – October and November tend to be best. 

The cheapest time to travel is during the winter months, outside of the Christmas and New Year period. Rates on Icelandic accommodation and flights are the cheapest at this time. However, if you want to balance costs with better weather for sightseeing, then aim for the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. 

Best Time to Go to Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant capital city, is great to visit at any time of year. In the summer, the city gets around 21 hours of daylight and experiences the best weather. Maximum daytime highs reach into the high teens with precipitation at its lowest. 

While summer offers great weather, it comes at a price. Accommodation in Reykjavik will be significantly more expensive at this time, tourist numbers are at their highest, and you can’t see the northern lights at this time of year. On the upside, there are plenty of festivals and celebrations during the summer months, and it’s a great time for whale-watching.   

Autumn (September and October) is slightly cooler and the days start to get much shorter. However, prices on flights and hotels are much lower and the hordes of summer tourists have left. There’s a small chance you could see the aurora borealis on clear days, but if this is your primary reason for visiting, rather plan for a winter trip. 

Rain and snow characterize the winter months. It’s dark and cold and perfect for seeing the Northern Lights. Winter in Reykjavik can be fun too! And you’ll easily be able to pick up a good deal on accommodation and flights, However, certain experiences might be unavailable due to poor weather conditions and the impact of this on the roads.

Spring is a mixed bag when it comes to weather, but it’s still much cheaper than peak season. The days are getting longer and warmer, which is great for sightseeing but not for seeing the Northern Lights .  

Best Time to See the Northern Lights

The magical aurora borealis, or Northern lights, are a popular reason for travel to Iceland. The distances between cities here make it easier to avoid light pollution, and the winter months are dark, making it easier to see this incredible phenomenon. 

Like most natural occurrences, predicting the visibility of the Northern Lights is not an exact science, so there is always a small chance you could miss it. Of course, there’s not much you can do to encourage a solar flare or solar wind to increase your chances of seeing the aurora, but you can plan your trip for a time when it’s more likely that you’ll see them.  

Northern lights iceland

September to late March is commonly the time when it’s dark enough for the Northern Lights to be seen. Months where there’s less or no precipitation are preferable as cloud cover is the last thing you want. October and November offer dark nights and low chances for cloud cover, increasing your odds of seeing the Northern Lights. 

February and March also offer good conditions for seeing the Northern Lights, but with a slightly increased chance of cloud cover. 

Best Time to Do the Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is (as the name would suggest) a circular route that starts in Reykjavik and takes in some of Iceland’s most beautiful landscapes. It is a cornerstone for most Iceland tours . The route takes you to three of the country’s top attractions:   Þingvellir National Park , Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall, and a whole host of extra little gems along the way. 

The route can be done in one day, or you could take your time to explore some of the smaller, but no less fascinating locations in between. Scheduled group tours can have you back at your hotel before a full workday has passed, but a self-drive adventure at your own pace can be very rewarding.

Golden Circle Iceland

While the summer months offer the long days and mild weather ideal for sightseeing, it does come with the pitfalls of coach-loads of other tourists. If you’re doing a self-drive, accommodation along the way can get pricey at this time of year. 

Of course, doing the Golden Circle in winter will offer a completely different perspective on the landscape. It will be cold, but it does mean you could be rewarded with sights of the Northern Lights as well. Gullfoss waterfall will be frozen and hauntingly beautiful at this time. 

Best Time for Sightseeing in Iceland

The long daylight hours and mild weather of summer make it a great time to enjoy sightseeing. So great, that that’s when everyone does it. This means you’ll likely have to endure long waits at major attractions, straining to see past big crowds and the typical elevated pricing of high season. 

Traveling in May or September, the months immediately before and after high season, offer the best weather for heading out to the many sights, while simultaneously avoiding the crowds and costs of peak season. While the days are shorter than in high summer, there’s still plenty of daylight to enjoy your sightseeing. Any earlier than May or later than September can see the weather becoming more variable, and the days very much shorter. 

Winter is significantly cheaper for a visit to Iceland, however, aside from the icy temperatures, the snow and rain can make some roads impassable, meaning some sight will be inaccessible. The days are also very short, offering only around four or five hours of daylight to get your sightseeing in. 

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Cheapest Time to Go to Iceland

Winter, outside of the Christmas and New Year holiday period is the cheapest time to visit Iceland. This time of year is characterized by intense cold, dark days with only a few hours of daylight, and in times of bad weather, inaccessible roads in some places. 

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer a happy compromise between the lovely weather of summer and the low costs of winter. During these shoulder seasons, you can still enjoy good weather and a crowd-free experience. 

Another benefit of travel outside of peak season is that you have the option to hold out for last-minute offers which can further save you on accommodation and flights.

If you are trying to save a few quid when visiting Iceland, check out the pod hostels in Reykjavik .

Busiest Time to Visit Iceland

Despite its long and dark winters, Iceland is a rewarding destination all year round and attracts tourists throughout the year. Of course, certain times are busier than others, so it’s always best to have all the facts when it comes to choosing the best time to visit Iceland. 

The busiest tourist season is during the summer between May and September. These months offer the warmest weather, with daytime temperatures in the low 20s, and in some places almost 21 hours of daylight. 

The long days and mild weather are ideal for sightseeing, whale-watching, and hiking. The Northern Lights are not visible during the summer months. 

The winter months are the quietest time to visit Iceland, with the exception of the Christmas and New Year holiday period when we see a brief return to peak conditions with more tourists and higher pricing. 

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are busier than the winter months in terms of tourist numbers but not as crowded as the peak summer season. 

Weather in Iceland

Iceland has four very distinct seasons, although the weather at any time can be variable and unpredictable. 

The west of the country benefits greatly from the warm Gulf Stream current that flows from the Caribbean. When this warm air meets the Arctic air from the north, things can get very temperamental.

There’s a saying in Iceland, ‘if you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes,’ and these swirling competing air masses are to blame for this. In the winter, this can lead to windy, stormy weather. 

Iceland Safety

Summer in Iceland is characterized by long daylight hours and mild temperatures. Days rarely reach temperatures exceeding the low-20s, and while it’s mostly sunny and bright, it can also turn misty and rainy at the drop of a hat. 

Winters are cold in Iceland, with frequent snow and rain. It’s dark, with only a few hours of daylight, and high temperatures rarely break into the double digits (Celsius). Stormy weather can cause problems with travel as some roads may become impassable. 

Interestingly, although Iceland is located further north than most of Europe, the United States and parts of Canada, its winters aren’t as cold as, say, New York or even Russia. The warm Gulf Stream ensures that the country doesn’t quite live up to its name as much as we would expect. 

Where is the Best Weather in Iceland?

The southern coastal region of Iceland is generally characterized by mild summers and cool winters which don’t often get too cold. The influence of the warm ocean currents causes an overall milder climate. The differences between summer and winter are not extreme, and rain can be expected at any time of year.

Further inland and in the higher elevations, the climate is much cooler. Summer peak temperatures rarely break into the teens (Celsius) and the winters are much colder than the southern coastal regions. 

The northern regions of the country tend to exhibit cooler temperatures overall, with maximum daytime highs in winter hovering at around 10°C – significantly colder than in the south, which averages 0°C.

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Festivals in Iceland

Iceland celebrates many festivals annually, from ancient Viking traditions and religious observances to more contemporary celebrations. The population of Iceland may be small, but its capacity for celebration is large. 

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A slightly modernized Viking tradition featuring loads of singing and dancing and eating. The gastronomically adventurous and strong of stomach can try traditional delicacies like fermented shark, sheep’s head, and pickled ram testicles, and wash it down with a potent shot of  brennivín  – a schnapps-like spirit nicknamed the ‘Black Death’.  

  • Winter Lights Festival:

Hosted annually in February, the lights festival originated as a way to brighten up the darkness of the long winter months. Reykjavik is lit up with spectacular light installations, landmarks are illuminated, and various performances and shows. 

Over the four days of the festival, you can also enjoy Pool Night and Museum Night – extended opening hours and free admission at the city’s pools and museums. 

While not technically a festival or a celebration, the arrival of these shy, goofy-looking birds is worth taking note of. The puffins arrive on the shores in impressive numbers (over 10 million birds) in the spring for their breeding season, departing again by mid-August. Iceland is the breeding home for over 60 percent of the world’s Atlantic puffins, with colonies located all over the country. 

The best time to see and photograph them is in late summer.

  • International Viking Festival :

A celebration of the country’s Viking heritage, this is the oldest and biggest festival of its kind, held annually at Viking Village in Hafnarfjörður.

Five days of staged battles, dances, and story-telling offer visitors a glimpse into traditional Viking life. Visitors can learn to use traditional weapons like spears and axes, learn wood carving techniques, and purchase a variety of handmade goods from the market.

  • Frostbiter:

Icelandic folklore is filled with tales of monsters and supernatural creatures. These dark tales are likely a result of the deep, dark winters, volcanic landscapes, and dramatic scenery of the country. 

This penchant for dark themes has birthed an annual horror film festival celebrating these macabre, strange, and downright terrifying movies. 

Horror film fans can head to Akranes, a small town north of Rejkyavik, for the Iceland Horror Film Festival which celebrates both local and international horror films. 

Christmas is a special time to be in Iceland. From traditional Christmas concerts, festive markets, and twinkling lights that cut through the winter darkness, the country is transformed into a winter wonderland. 

Any Christmas in Iceland is virtually guaranteed to be a white Christmas, and the chances increase the further north you travel. 

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If you’re still in any doubt as to the best time to visit Iceland for the experience you’ve been dreaming of, take a look at our month-by-month guide. 

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We’ve gathered all the details for each month of the year to help you find the ideal balance of costs, crowds, and climate.

January in Iceland

January in Iceland is  cold and dark . Average high temperatures hover around 2°C and winds often reach gale force, making it feel colder than it is. There’s a good chance of rain and snow as well. 

It’s very much low season, so definitely the  cheapest time to visit Iceland , and there aren’t too many other tourists to contend with at tourist attractions. However, the days are short and offer only a few hours of daylight for sightseeing. Certain roads and attractions are likely to be closed or inaccessible due to weather conditions. 

February in Iceland

It isn’t much warmer in February , but the chance of rain and snow decreases. The days are getting longer so there’s more time for sightseeing. Most of the roads should be accessible by now unless there’s a bad storm. 

You’ll still benefit from  low season conditions : sightseeing is still pleasantly crowd-free and prices are low. 

March in Iceland

March is still cold with  occasional rainy days . Snow isn’t likely unless you’re headed to the higher elevations. The days are getting significantly longer now, and there’s  more daylight than darkness  now. 

There are few tourists around so sightseeing is still relatively uncrowded. This is a great time for winter sports in the mountains as there’s far more daylight to enjoy the slopes.  

April in Iceland

This is the unofficial start of the summer season in Iceland. As the snow melts, the landscape is blanketed in greenery, and flocks of migratory birds arrive. While it’s still chilly with maximum temperatures only hitting the single digits (Celsius), there’s significantly  less rainfall and much longer days . 

Tourist numbers start to increase from April, but it’s still not peak season so costs and crowds are manageable. 

May in Iceland

May is the best time to visit Iceland if you’re wanting a good balance between crowds, costs, and climate. The days are lovely and long, if a little chilly, there are  fewer tourists, and prices are still low . 

Temperatures are still fairly low, with the average maximum rarely peaking over 10°C. And like any time in Iceland, the weather has the potential to be erratic. Snow is unlikely unless you’re headed to the mountains.

June in Iceland

It’s now feeling a lot more like summer. Temperatures can get as high as 20°C but usually hover around the low teens. You can expect  bright, sunny days  for the most part, with the longest days of the year. 

With the mild weather come the  crowds and peak season pricing . Anyone wishing to visit in high season should book well in advance.  Visiting Iceland in June is on my bucket list! More sunny days, please…

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July in Iceland

Like June, July offers  long sunny days  and mild temperatures that attract large numbers of tourists. Average daytime temperatures creep closer to the mid-teens, but can sometimes get much higher. You may experience light rain on occasion. 

This is one of the most  popular times to visit Iceland , so expect busy attractions, crowds of tourists, and elevated pricing. If you’re visiting at this time, there are plenty of outdoor festivals and celebrations to attend.

August in Iceland

It’s still fairly warm in August, with  daytime highs in the low teens , but the temperatures start to decline noticeably as the month progresses. There’s a slightly higher chance of rain, and days are getting noticeably shorter too. 

It’s still a great time to travel to Iceland in terms of weather, but you may still encounter  large numbers of tourists  and higher pricing. 

September in Iceland

The days shorten significantly in September in the lead-up to winter. It’s rainier at this time of year and the  temperatures are cool , with an average maximum of around 10°C. The first sightings of the northern lights are possible now, although not guaranteed. 

If you’re visiting at this time, you can enjoy the crowd-free conditions and the lower pricing that follows the peak season. 

October in Iceland

Weather conditions become  much more wintery  in October. While it’s technically only autumn, the average maximum temperatures drop into the single digits, the days are short, and rain is common. 

Conditions are still good for sightseeing and the weather hasn’t yet impacted the conditions of the roads. You’ll also benefit from  fewer crowds and off-peak pricing . The northern lights become much easier to see from October onwards. 

November in Iceland

Temperatures continue to drop  along with the number of daylight hours. There are only a few hours of daylight to enjoy, so you’ll need to plan your time well. Light rain is common, and if you’re heading further north, your chances for snow increase. Some attractions and roads are impacted by the weather and may not be operating. 

Tourist numbers are low  at this time, making sightseeing pleasant and stress-free. You may be able to pick up some  great deals on accommodation  during November. 

December in Iceland

The cities transform into festive  winter wonderlands , with twinkling lights and festive markets brightening up the winter darkness. Snow is common at this time as is rain, and average daytime temperatures hover around 4°C. 

There’s a small spike in tourism around Christmas, but if you book in advance, you’re still likely to pick up a good deal on accommodation.  

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When is the Best Time to Go to the Golden Circle?

The Golden Circle route can be done at most times of the year. May and September are the best times, as they offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

When is the Rainy Season in Iceland?

The weather in Iceland is notoriously unpredictable and rain can be expected at any time in the year. Most of the rain falls over the winter months between October and February.

When is the Coldest Month in Iceland?

January and February are the coldest months in Iceland. The average maximum temperature is around 2°C, and rainfall and snow are frequent.

When is the Worst Time to Visit Iceland?

Iceland’s short summer occurs between June and August. This is when large numbers of tourists flock to Iceland to enjoy the sights in the mild weather.

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Iceland, the Land of Fire and Ice, is a land of contrasts and extremes. Whether you choose to visit in the height of summer or the very depths of winter, each experience will yield a unique perspective of this fascinating island. 

Choosing the best time to visit Iceland will depend largely on what experiences you wish to have. It all comes down to striking a balance between the weather conditions, the tourist numbers, and seasonal pricing. 

If you’re planning a visit in the summer – you’ll be treated to long sunny days, but it’s essential to book well in advance. If you’re hoping to go off the beaten track and explore outside of the peak season, you might want to hold out for a last-minute deal. 

Either way, there’s plenty to experience in Iceland. And when you’ve done it all? Come back and do it all again in a different season for a completely new perspective. 

Iceland outdoor

  • Let’s get you ready for your next adventure with our  backpacking Iceland guide .
  • Check out the  best hostels in Iceland to kickstart your adventure.
  • Know  where to stay in Reykjavik  BEFORE you get there… trust me on this one.
  • With the  best international SIM card you can stay connected, always.
  • Seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience? Explore the best places to see the northern lights .
  • Explore some of the best waterfalls in Iceland to experience something a lil’ different.
  • Plenty of backpackers – myself included – make a stop at Iceland’s Blue Lagoon at the end of their Iceland adventure.
  • Expand your horizons and explore the best winter destinations in Europe .

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My husband and I will be in Reykjavik from August 16 to August 18th. We are very interested in taking a Golden Circle small group tour on August 17th. How do I find such a day tour?

Ask at the local tourist information centre, check online, or ask at your accommodation. There will be more than a few tour companies advertising their jaunts.

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I must tell you that my tour with you is probably THE best tour I've ever taken (and I've taken a lot). My guide Rico set a bar so high that I don’t know i...

Whilst Iceland has no trouble giving travelers a reason to visit all year round, the seasons vary hugely, due to how north the country sits. Iceland's geographical position not only affects the weather, but also the hours of daylight you can expect to have. These, alongside the best times to see the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights , are crucial factors in deciding the best time to visit Iceland.

What is the best time to visit Iceland?

What are the travel seasons in iceland, visiting iceland in winter.

  • Visiting Iceland in spring

Visiting Iceland in summer

Visiting iceland in fall, best month to visit iceland, best time to see the northern lights in iceland.

The best time to visit Iceland is the months of June to September are ideal, offering mild weather and extended daylight hours, perfect for exploring Iceland's unique landscapes. 

For those eager to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights, the darkest months of December to January are the most suitable.

Want more tips? Read our content manager's personal experience travelling in Iceland and find out the important aspects you're likely to encounter on your trip.

Worst months to visit Iceland

The worst time to visit Iceland in terms of the weather and outdoor activities predominantly corresponds to the winter months, notably November, December, and January. During this period, the country faces extreme weather conditions featuring heavy snowfall and chilly temperatures. These elements, in conjunction with shorter daylight hours, make outdoor exploration quite challenging for all but the most adventure-loving visitors.

Aiming to beat the crowd? Then it's worth noting that June to August, despite being the best time for outdoor activities, are the months where the popular tourist spots like the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon , and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon see significant crowd inflow.

Mountain Stapafell in the background at Arnarstapi Village in summer sunny day in Iceland © takepicsforfun/Shutterstock

Mountain Stapafell in the background at Arnarstapi Village in summer sunny day in Iceland ©Shutterstock

The best time visit Iceland doesn't always depend on the weather, but could be season related too. Let's dive deeper into Iceland seasons.

Visiting Iceland in winter gives you a taste of its unique charms, even though the weather can be tough. From mid-October to April, temperatures can drop to -30°C, especially in December when daylight is in short supply. However this season is a great time to explore ice caves, glaciers, and the see mesmerizing Northern Lights.

Since it's the off-season, you'll find fewer tourists and better deals. Keep in mind though, some outdoor activities might be restricted and certain roads closed due to weather conditions. If you're up for it, winter is perfect for snowmobiling and exploring ice caves.

Visiting Iceland in spring 

In the spring the snow melts away, and you're likely to see the landscape burst into vibrant colors. The days get longer, giving you those dreamy extended twilight hours that are perfect for capturing amazing photos. Wildlife really starts to come alive, with migrating birds making their way back. The weather can be a bit unpredictable, but overall, temperatures get milder.

Spring is considered a shoulder season, so there are fewer tourists around, which means you can explore the attractions as they reopen at a more relaxed pace. Hiking trails start to become accessible, and you can even jump on a whale-watching tour. 

Reykjadalur Steam Valley © Shutterstock

Reykjadalur Steam Valley © Shutterstock

Visiting Iceland in summer, from June to August, is all about mild weather, endless daylight, and vibrant energy. With the midnight sun in full swing during June and July, you'll experience surreal, never-ending days. 

This is prime time for outdoor adventures like hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching. While popular spots can get crowded and prices rise, the buzz of festivals and events adds to the excitement. 

Summer offers the best road conditions for exploring remote areas and the highlands.  It’s recommended to book accommodations , transportation and trips in advance if you plan to visit during the peak season.

Fall in Iceland, from September to early October, offers a magical mix of summer's lingering warmth and the first hints of winter. It’s an ideal time for photographers, with extended golden hours that bathe the landscapes in stunning hues. The Northern Lights make their return, so aurora chasing becomes a possibility again. The weather is still relatively pleasant, perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures.

As tourist crowds thin out, you’ll find a more intimate experience at popular sites. Fall colors add a special touch, especially in areas with trees and low-growing vegetation. 

Tip from Rough Guides: also learn about the best ways to get to Iceland .

enquiry-2023_iceland.jpg

If you're into nature, Iceland is a great destination!

If you don't know what month will be best for you, read on about the best time to visit Iceland month by month.

January: best for quiet tranquility

January offers tranquility and magic with fewer crowds. Short days (11 am to 4 pm) increase Northern Lights chances. Snowy landscapes provide a backdrop for winter activities. Thermal baths offer respite from sub-zero temperatures 14°F to 32°F (-10°C to 0°C). Despite reduced sightseeing time, the quiet atmosphere makes January ideal for a peaceful winter experience.

February: best for the Northern Lights

February showcases Iceland's winter beauty. Temperatures range from 14°F to 46°F (-10°C to 8°C). More daylight than January, with a golden tinge perfect for photos. High probability of seeing the Aurora Borealis. Weather permitting, venture on iceberg, waterfall, or glacier tours outside the city.

March: best for seeing the snow in the daylight

  March blends winter beauty with emerging spring. Ideal for experiencing snow-covered landscapes and longer daylight hours. Great for winter activities like snowmobiling and glacier tours. Excellent Northern Lights viewing. Marks the beginning of whale watching season.

iceland-northern-lights-shutterstock_528933889

Iceland northern lights © Shutterstock

April: best for ice cave adventures

April  brings spring to Iceland with 14 hours of sunlight. Temperatures range from 37-43°F (3-6°C). Some winter activities are still available, especially early in the month. Enjoy brisk hiking excursions as the country blossoms. Southern Iceland regions like Skogafoss, Vik, and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon are particularly picturesque.

Looking for more options for your holiday in April? Find the perfect holiday destination with our top suggestions .

May: best for puffin spotting

May marks the transition to summer. Daylight exceeds 14 hours. Temperatures range from 48°F to 54°F (9°C to 12°C). Spring brings vibrant colors and blooming wildflowers. Wildlife watching is a highlight, with whale watching tours and puffin-spotting excursions. Puffins return to Iceland's shores from mid-April.

June: best for midnight sun

June brings the spectacular midnight sun phenomenon. Almost 24 hours of daylight offer ample exploration time. Temperatures typically range from 48°F to 59°F (9°C to 15°C). Weather remains unpredictable, so pack light layers and waterproof clothing. The midnight sun creates unforgettable memories and excellent photography opportunities.

Still looking for options for your summer trip? Explore our list of the best destinations for holidays in June .

Skogafoss waterfall, Iceland

Skogafoss waterfall, Iceland © Shutterstock

July: best for snow-free drives

July  is the warmest month with 24 hours of daylight. Average temperatures are 50°F to 59°F (10°C to 15°C). Long days stretch till midnight, with sunrise around 4 am. Hiking trails open , including in the Highlands. Whale watching tours in full swing. Snow-free roads ideal for drives, especially along the iconic Ring Road.

Looking for even more ideas for your summer adventure? Explore our list of the best holiday destinations for July .

August: best for bursts of color

August offers a feast of summer colors. Temperatures range from 52°F to 59°F (11°C to 15°C). Lush landscapes, blooming flowers, and vibrant hues paint a picturesque image. Icelandic forests are remarkably green, lakes shimmer, and waterfalls spring to life. Despite the summer rush, Iceland retains its freshness and appeal.

Still haven't decided where you're going this summer? Explore our list of the best August holiday destinations .

September: best for shoulder season

September brings autumn colors and comfortable temperatures 41°F to 48°F (2°C to 7°C). As crowds thin out, tranquility sets in. Prime time for Northern Lights viewing due to reduced daylight and increased solar activity around the equinox. Fall foliage paints landscapes in red, brown, and gold.

laugavegur-trail-iceland-shutterstock_554344060

Hiking the Laugavegur trail is one of the best experiences in Iceland © Shutterstock

October: best for changing leaves

October marks the shift from autumn to winter. Temperatures range from 36°F to 45°F (-2°C to 3°C). First snowflakes may appear. Northern Lights become prominent. Natural wonders showcase falling leaves in vibrant hues. Last month to tour highlands before winter road closures. Great time to visit Landmannalaugar or Thórsmörk.

Looking for more options for an autumn holiday? Also check out our list of the best destinations for an unforgettable holiday in October .

November: best for snowmobiling

November brings winter's arrival with temperatures between 28°F to 37°F (-2°C to 3°C). Daylight reduces to 6-8 hours. Northern Lights become more reliable. Snowy landscapes and ice-clad waterfalls present unique beauty. Opportunities for glacier hiking, ice cave exploration, and snowmobiling on glaciers.

December: best for fairy-tale like winter wonderland

December transforms Iceland into a fairytale winter wonderland. Temperatures range from 30°F to 23°F (-1°C to -5°C). Reykjavík comes alive with Christmas lights and decorations. Thirteen Yule Lads bring holiday cheer. New Year's Eve features bonfires and fireworks, offering a spectacular welcome to the new year.

Winder Wonderland at the Reykjadalur Steam Valley © Shutterstock

The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter months. This period offers longer, darker nights, which are essential for optimal viewing. 

Late autumn and early spring, particularly around the equinoxes, often provide increased solar activity, enhancing the chances of spectacular displays. 

Clear, cold nights away from light pollution are ideal. To maximize your chances, plan a trip lasting several days and check aurora forecasts regularly.

For the best viewing

 Patience and a bit of luck are key, as the aurora's appearance can be unpredictable.

  • Plan a flexible itinerary
  • Track weather and solar activity using resources like the Icelandic Meteorological Office
  • Be prepared for cold temperatures
  • Choose locations away from light pollution

Remember, while winter offers the best chances, the Northern Lights' appearance is never guaranteed.

Jokulsarlon-Northern-Lights-Iceland

Northern lights reflected in Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon © Krissanapong Wongsawarng/Shutterstock

Best places to see the Northern Lights

The magical Northern Lights can be seen across Iceland during winter months, but there are some places that offer particularly stunning views due to minimal light pollution:

Iceland offers stunning Northern Lights views in winter, with several prime locations:

  • Thingvellir National Park: UNESCO site with minimal light pollution.
  • Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon : Icebergs create a unique backdrop.
  • Vik : Black sand beaches provide a surreal setting.
  • Snaefellsnes Peninsula : Remote location with Kirkjufell mountain backdrop.
  • Grotta Lighthouse, Reykjavik : Best city viewpoint.

Viewing depends on weather and solar activity. Check forecasts and be flexible. For the best experience, consider joining guided tours for optimal experiences. For more inpsiration, see our guide to the   best places to see the Northern Light in Iceland.

Strokkur geyser, Iceland © ZinaidaSopina/Shutterstock

Strokkur geyser along the Golden Circle © Shutterstock

The Rough Guides to Iceland and related travel guides

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Travel advice for Iceland

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Iceland

  • How to get to Iceland
  • Sports and Outdoor activities in Iceland
  • Eating and drinking in Iceland
  • Getting around Iceland: Transportation Tips
  • Travel Tips Iceland for planning and on the go

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Rough Guides Editors

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 08.08.2024

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12 top places to visit in Iceland in 2024

Eygló Svala Arnarsdóttir

Mar 12, 2024 • 8 min read

A man sits in front of Godafoss Waterfall surrounded by snow.

Iceland has lots to offer – here's our 12 favorite places to visit © evenfh / Shutterstock

Iceland appears on the must-do lists of many travelers – its charming cities and towns, other-worldly landscapes and astronomical phenomena keep the crowds coming back for more every year.

But how do you choose the highlights of your trip in a country packed with so many of them ? Don't worry, we've picked twelve incredible places, some of which are on the beaten path and some of which are not, but all of which might surprise you. Here are our favorite places to visit in Iceland  in 2024.

1. Mosfellsbær

Best for a quiet escape near Reykjavík

Reykjavík’s friendly rural neighbor is Mosfellsbær . Its biggest attractions are the small mountains that surround the town, including Úlfarsfell, Mosfell, Helgafell and Reykjafell – all great for short hikes. Lake Hafravatn is a gem that locals flock to for swimming and kayaking fun. Time your visit to coincide with the popular vegetable market that carries the produce of local farmers, open every Saturday in late summer in the valley.

The valley is also host to Gljúfrasteinn , a museum dedicated to Nobel Prize laureate Halldór Laxness, and Laxnes farm, which offers horseback riding tours. Álafosskvos is a tiny art and design village with a long-standing yarn store and local craft stores full of beautifully made items you'll want to bring home.

Planning tip: You can visit Mosfellsbær year-round. Þingvellir National Park is a short drive away – avoid the crowds by visiting between September and May .

Best base on the Golden Circle

In rural South Iceland lies Flúðir, best known for its mushroom greenhouse. If mushrooms are your thing, the greenhouse’s bistro offers all things funghi-related. Continue your gastronomic adventure and try authentic Ethiopian food at Minilik . Nearby is the Secret Lagoon , known locally as Gamla Laugin, and Hrunalaug , a small natural pool with stacked stone walls in the peaceful countryside. Flúðir is on the Golden Circle with some of the country’s best-known attractions within reach – it’s the perfect base for exploring the region.

Planning tip: It’s best not to visit Flúðir in the summer. It's the height of the tourist season, and spring and autumn are more enjoyable.

A woman kayaking in a fjord in Iceland

3. Stokkseyri

Best kayaking tours near Reykjavík

This charming South Coast village attracts foodies from far and wide to its seafood restaurant Fjöruborðið  – the lobster is especially popular. Kayaking in its narrow channels is a calm and fun activity, and the neighboring village of Eyrarbakki has beautifully restored timber houses and a heritage museum in a home that seems frozen in time. Nearby is Raufarhólshellir , one of the longest lava tubes in Iceland.

Planning tip: You can visit Stokkseyri and engage in most of the activities year-round, but service hours may change in winter, and kayaking depends on the weather.

Best base for glacial tours

In the kingdom of Vatnajökull , harbor town Höfn welcomes you with its lobster restaurants and stunning glacial views. This is a great base for exploring Europe’s largest glacier, from Jökulsárlón and other glacial lagoons with their floating icebergs to glacial hikes, snowmobile tours and ever-changing ice caves. Among local tour operators is the family-run company Glacier Journey .

Planning tip: You can visit year-round, but the ice-caving season is roughly from November through March. Glacial hikes are usually not possible at the height of summer. Always go with a guide and in good weather.

5. Borgarfjörður eystri

Best place for puffin-watching

The tiny village of Bakkagerði is surrounded by colorful mountains in Borgarfjörður eystri, one of the more remote Eastfjords. Getting there is an adventure in its own right as the road winds its way up and down a mountain pass. As you enter the village, time seems to slow down. Here you can relax and enjoy nature, go on hikes, explore on two wheels or treat yourself to a boat tour  and watch puffins up close from the bird-watching house on Hafnarhólmi.

Planning tips: To see puffins, visit from mid-May to early August. Christmas-related events take place during Advent, and snow sports are possible during winter.

Aerial view of a high waterfall falling down into a crater with red layers of clay between the basaltic layers of rock

6. Hallormsstaðaskógur

Best for camping in the woods

Visit Iceland’s largest forest and be amazed by its size. The campsite in Atlavík , on the banks of Lake Lagarfljót, is one of the country’s best and most popular among local tourists. There are 40 km (25 miles) of walking paths around the forest, so you can lose yourself among the trees and then climb up and enjoy the view of the lake – perhaps even catch a glimpse of the vicious wyrm that is said to inhabit it. Egilsstaðir, East Iceland’s largest town, is only 30 minutes away, and some of the region’s biggest attractions, like Hengifoss waterfall , are also close by.

Planning tips: Visit between June and August for camping. A forest festival is held around Midsummer’s Day, and mid-August to mid-September is the berry-picking season. Enjoy autumn colors from late August through October.

Best place for whale watching

Visit Iceland’s whale-watching capital and enjoy the friendly atmosphere as you stroll around the harbor. Joining a whale-watching tour of Skjálfandi Bay with one of the local tour operators is a must, perhaps combined with a bird-watching tour or a visit to Flatey Island , which was inhabited until the 1960s.

Learn more about whales at the fascinating Whale Museum , enjoy a beer at Gamli Baukur and try the salted cod at Salka Restaurant . Afterward, soak in the geothermal waters at Geosea and take in the gorgeous view of Skjálfandi. Húsavík is on the Diamond Circle and Arctic Coast Way.

Planning tips: Whale watching is available from March to November but is most enjoyable during the summer months.

8. Hauganes

Best place for a special bathing experience

There’s more than meets the eye at this hamlet on the shore of Eyjafjörður in North Iceland. The hot tubs on the beach have become quite the attraction, and it’s also tempting to brave the frigid waves. Try the salted cod at Baccalá restaurant and bar – it's prepared by local company Ektafiskur. You can also catch your own fish on sea angling tours and go whale watching from Hauganes. In the nearby village of Árskógssandur, Kaldi beer is brewed, and the brewery also offers beer baths . The ferry to the idyllic island Hrísey goes from Árskógssandur.

Planning tips: Visit for the midnight sun in the summer and northern lights in winter. Sea tours are best enjoyed in the summer.

Woman walking on snow shoes in Skidadalur, Dalvik, Iceland

9. Siglufjörður

Best for snow sports

Although it's best known as the location for the crime series Trapped , Siglufjörður is not scary at all. It’s a peaceful fishing community that used to be isolated – trapped, if you will – between tall mountains but has now been connected to the neighboring town of Ólafsfjörður by a tunnel. It was one of Iceland’s bustling herring processing centers during the boom that reached its height in the mid-20 th century.

This remarkable history is documented in the Herring Era Museum . Today, Siglufjörður is one of North Iceland’s centers for snow sports  – don't miss the popular Moroccan restaurant in town after a day on the slopes. Siglufjörður also has a beloved ski resort , and off-piste skiing is possible in the mountains of the Tröllaskagi peninsula.

Planning tips: Visit between January and March for cross-country and Alpine skiing at resorts. Off-piste skiing is usually possible through May. 

10. Hólmavík

Best base for exploring Strandir

On the northern coast of the Westfjords lies the fishing village Hólmavík, which has made a name for itself with its Museum of Sorcery and Witchcraft . Diving into Iceland’s darker past, it tells tales of sorcerers and magic spells, witch burnings and other heinous acts. In a charming old house, Café Riis serves delicious pizzas and other treats.

The nearby town of Drangsnes has several  beachside hot tubs that could easily tempt you to spend the rest of the day gazing at the incredible scenery. A bumpy – and slightly scary – gravel road continues onwards along the Strandir region to some of Iceland’s remotest communities in Árneshreppur. At the edge of the world, you can book a night at Hótel Djúpavík .

Planning tips: It’s best to visit in summer as the road to the remoter communities is often hazardous or closed in winter.

Best place for quiet contemplation

In the middle of Breiðafjörður Bay, between the Westfjords and Snæfellsnes Peninsula , is an island which seems to have been lost in time. Only a handful of people live there year-round, but in summer the village comes to life when part-time residents come and stay in the beautifully restored houses. Walk around Flatey among grazing sheep and busy seabirds (watch out for the Arctic terns), look out at the ocean and find inner calm. The ferry goes between Stykkishólmur and Brjánslækur .

Planning tips: It’s best to visit in summer when the weather is more stable for sailing and more services are open.

12. Húsafell

Best resort for diverse experiences

In the innermost part of Borgarfjörður in the West, almost at the foot of Langjökull glacier, is the forested paradise of Húsafell – its hotel, campground and cottages have made it very popular among local tourists. There are both easy and challenging walking paths, including to the spectacular waterfalls of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss. Glacial tours are available from Húsafell, and Víðgelmir , a massive lava cave, is just a few minutes away. You can soak in the on-site swimming pools or go on a hike to the more exclusive Canyon Baths .

Planning tips: Visit year-round. Summer is best for camping and hiking, and winter is best for viewing the northern lights.

This article was first published Apr 15, 2021 and updated Mar 12, 2024.

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Sun setting at Seljalandsfoss

Daylight Hours in Iceland: A Monthly Breakdown

Jump to chapter, overview of daylight hours in iceland throughout the year, january: long nights, short days, february: gradual increase in daylight, march: spring equinox and equal daylight, april: noticeably longer days, may: approaching the midnight sun, june: the midnight sun, july: full days of light, august: gradual decline in daylight, september: the autumn equinox, october: shorter days, more darkness, november: increasing darkness, december: the darkest month, daylight hours variations by region.

Iceland is known for its dramatic changes in daylight, thanks to its location just below the Arctic Circle. From the never-ending light of summer to the long, dark winter nights, daylight in Iceland changes a lot throughout the year. Whether you’re planning a trip or just curious about life there, this guide breaks down what to expect each month.

Key Takeaways

  • Daylight in Iceland changes drastically throughout the year, with nearly 24 hours of sunlight in summer and as little as 4 hours in winter.
  • The Midnight Sun occurs from May to July, offering almost constant daylight, while December brings the shortest days with long, dark nights.
  • Northern Lights are best viewed during the darker months, from late September to April, when longer nights allow for better visibility.

Iceland’s daylight hours shift massively with the seasons, and so does its weather . In summer, especially between May and July, you’ll experience the Midnight Sun, where it’s light almost 24 hours a day. During this time, the weather is milder, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), making it ideal for outdoor adventures like hiking and exploring. On the flip side, winter months (November to January) offer just a few hours of daylight, with temperatures dropping to around 0°C (32°F) or below, often accompanied by snow and strong winds.

Despite the cold, this period is perfect for catching the Northern Lights. The in-between months bring a balance of daylight and cooler, more unpredictable weather, with spring and fall featuring both sunny days and sudden rain showers. This makes layering and preparing for all weather conditions essential when visiting.

Average Daylight Hours per Month

In January , Iceland’s days are short, with Reykjavik getting about 4 to 6 hours of daylight. The sun doesn’t rise until around 11:00 AM, and it’s already setting by 3:30 PM. Though it sounds dark, this is the perfect time to see the Northern Lights. Locals also embrace the cold and dark with Thorrablot , a winter festival that celebrates traditional food and culture. You’ll find the streets lit up with cozy lights, making the short days feel magical.

View of Vik during winter with the sun setting

By February , the days are getting longer, with about 7 to 10 hours of daylight. The sun starts rising around 9:00 AM and sets at 6:00 PM by the end of the month. This extra daylight is a welcome change for travelers but also for locals. Winter activities like ice caving and snowmobiling are still popular, and the landscapes are still covered in snow. February is a great time to enjoy Iceland’s wintry beauty with just a little more light.

People doing Ice caving in Iceland

March brings more daylight, with about 10 to 13 hours of sunlight by the month’s end. The spring equinox, around mid-March, means equal hours of day and night. The sun rises at 8:00 AM and sets after 7:00 PM by late March. The longer days signal the beginning of spring, and it’s the last good month to catch the Northern Lights before the nights get too short. It’s also a great time for outdoor activities like hiking, as the snow starts to melt.

icelandic landscape in Selfoss during March

In April , you’ll notice the days getting much longer, with 13 to 16 hours of daylight. The sun rises around 6:00 AM and sets at 9:00 PM by the end of the month. Spring has officially arrived, and the extra daylight means more opportunities to explore Iceland’s stunning landscapes. While some remote areas may still be snow-covered, you’ll see more green returning to the countryside, and wildlife becomes more active.

Skútustaðir, Iceland, during April

May is when Iceland’s long days really kick in, with 16 to 20 hours of daylight. By the end of the month, the sun is up by 4:00 AM and doesn’t set until 11:00 PM. This is a great time for adventurers, as you can spend hours hiking, exploring, or driving through the countryside with no worries about running out of daylight. The warmer weather and long days make May the start of the peak travel season, with events like the Reykjavik Arts Festival bringing the city to life.

Skogafoss at sunset

June is all about the Midnight Sun . You’ll experience nearly 24 hours of daylight, especially around the summer solstice. In northern areas like Akureyri, the sun barely sets, creating a surreal twilight even during the night. In Reykjavik, the sun rises around 3:00 AM and sets just after midnight. This is the perfect time for midnight hikes or simply enjoying the outdoors at all hours. The summer solstice celebrations, like Jónsmessa , bring everyone together to celebrate the longest day of the year.

A harbor in Reykjavik during the Midnight sun

July continues with nearly 24 hours of daylight. Even when the sun dips below the horizon, it never gets fully dark. This constant daylight means endless opportunities for outdoor activities like glacier tours, horseback riding, and camping. If you’re a photographer, the unique light during these extended “golden hours” offers incredible photo opportunities. Locals are used to the long days, and most places have blackout curtains to help with sleep.

   Hiker woman in yellow jacket standing on volcanic mountain and midnight sun from Blahnjukur trail in Icelandic highlands Licenciadas  Guardar na Biblioteca  Pré-visualizar Cortar  Encontrar Semelhantes   N.º de ficheiro:  532735324 Hiker woman in yellow jacket standing on volcanic mountain and midnight sun from Blahnjukur trail in Icelandic highlands

In August , the days are still long but start to shorten a bit, with 14 to 17 hours of daylight. By late August, the sun rises around 5:30 AM and sets around 9:30 PM. The weather is still mild, making this a great time to visit if you want to avoid the peak tourist crowds but still enjoy long days. By the end of the month, there’s a chance you might catch the first Northern Lights of the season as the nights begin to return.

Tourists near Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Iceland

September is the month when the nights start catching up with the days again. You’ll get about 11 to 14 hours of daylight, with sunrise around 6:30 AM and sunset at 8:00 PM by month’s end. The autumn equinox brings equal hours of daylight and darkness. This is a fantastic time to visit if you want to see Iceland’s beautiful fall colors, and the darker evenings mean the return of the Northern Lights season.

Cottage in Iceland in september during sunset by myvatn lake

By October , daylight hours drop to around 8 to 11 hours. The sun rises around 8:00 AM and sets by 5:30 PM. The shorter days mean more opportunities to catch the Northern Lights, and you’ll notice the landscape shifting to winter mode, especially in the mountains. October is also a great time to visit for a quieter experience as the tourist crowds have thinned out. The Reykjavik International Film Festival brings a fun cultural vibe to the city as well.

Father and son bluberry picking in Iceland

In November , daylight decreases further, with Reykjavik experiencing 5 to 7 hours of sunlight. The sun rises around 9:30 AM and sets at 4:30 PM. The long nights make this prime time for Northern Lights viewing, and many travelers come to Iceland specifically for this. Snow becomes more common, and the country prepares for the winter season. Despite the dark days, the festive spirit begins to build as Icelanders prepare for the holiday season.

Northern lights at Thingvellir

December is the darkest time of the year in Iceland, with only 4 to 5 hours of daylight. The sun rises around 11:30 AM and sets by 3:30 PM. While this might sound intense, the winter solstice and Christmas lights bring warmth and coziness to the long nights. December is a magical time in Iceland, with plenty of holiday celebrations. Plus, the Northern Lights often make a strong appearance, adding to the beauty of the dark sky.

Milky way and volcanic mountain over fjord at night, Iceland

The different regions of Iceland present different patterns when it comes to daylight. Here's a breakdown so you know what to expect depending on where you're going.

South Iceland

In the south, including Reykjavik and the Golden Circle , daylight hours change a lot with the seasons. From May to July, the south enjoys nearly 24 hours of daylight, with the sun briefly dipping below the horizon but never fully setting. In winter, from November to January, days are much shorter, with only about 4 to 6 hours of daylight. The sun rises around 11:00 AM and sets by 3:30 PM. Spring and fall bring more balanced daylight, with longer days and cooler but milder weather in April and September.

South Iceland’s weather can change quickly, so be prepared for sunshine one minute and rain the next.

The Icelandic Ring Road in South Iceland

North Iceland

In the north, including Akureyri and areas closer to the Arctic Circle, daylight varies even more. During summer, especially in June and July, the Midnight Sun means 24 hours of daylight, with no real darkness at night. In winter, from November to January, the days are much shorter, with only 3 to 4 hours of daylight in December and January.

The north is colder and gets more snow in the winter, making it perfect for winter sports and spotting the Northern Lights. As spring and fall roll in, the days get longer again, but snow can stick around until late April.

Neskaupstadur in the fjord of North Iceland

East Iceland

East Iceland has daylight patterns similar to the rest of the country, but the weather here can be a little different because of its location. In summer, from May to July, you’ll get almost 24 hours of daylight, perfect for exploring the beautiful fjords in constant light. Winter, especially in December, only has 4 to 5 hours of daylight, so days are much shorter.

The east is a bit drier than other parts of Iceland, but you can still expect some rain and snow in the colder months. Spring and fall bring longer days and milder temperatures, especially starting in April.

Lake and mountains in East Iceland

West Iceland

West Iceland, which includes the Snaefellsnes Peninsula , has long summer days where the sun barely sets in June and July. You’ll have nearly constant daylight, making it a great time to explore the dramatic coastlines and volcanic areas. Winter days are much shorter, with only 4 to 5 hours of daylight in December, and the weather can be windy and snowy. Spring and fall are times of change, with daylight hours growing in April and September.

The weather can shift quickly, but the longer days make it a good time for outdoor activities without the summer crowds.

Houses and lanscape in northwest Iceland

Central Highlands

The Central Highlands are remote and wild, with daylight that shifts dramatically between seasons. In summer, you’ll have almost 24 hours of daylight, perfect for exploring glaciers, volcanoes, and hot springs under the Midnight Sun. In winter, there are only a few hours of daylight, and the weather is tough, with lots of snow and freezing temperatures.

Most of the highlands are closed off during the winter due to the snow, but as the days get longer in spring, it becomes possible to visit again by late April. The cooler temperatures in spring and fall are balanced by more daylight, making it easier to explore.

Red volcano crater with moody sky in the central highlands on summer at Iceland

Iceland’s daylight hours change drastically throughout the year, shaping the way people live and travel. Whether you’re there for the endless summer days or the long winter nights, there’s always something special about the light (or lack of it) in Iceland. From the Midnight Sun to the Northern Lights, every season offers something unique. Understanding these changes will help you plan your trip and enjoy everything Iceland has to offer, no matter when you visit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Icelan's Daylight Hours

What month has the longest days in iceland.

June has the longest days in Iceland, thanks to the Midnight Sun. Around the summer solstice, which occurs in late June, you’ll experience nearly 24 hours of daylight. In northern regions like Akureyri, the sun never fully sets, and even in the south, it’s light almost all day and night.

What month has the shortest days in Iceland?

December has the shortest days in Iceland, especially around the winter solstice. In Reykjavik, there are only about 4 to 5 hours of daylight. The sun rises late, around 11:30 AM, and sets early, around 3:30 PM. This makes it the prime time to catch the Northern Lights due to the long, dark nights.

Can you see the Northern Lights during the summer?

No, it’s not possible to see the Northern Lights during the summer in Iceland. The Midnight Sun keeps the sky too bright, even at night, making it impossible for the lights to be visible. The best time to see the Northern Lights is from late September to April, when the nights are longer and darker.

How do people sleep during the Midnight Sun?

During the summer months, when daylight lasts almost 24 hours, many locals and visitors use blackout curtains or sleep masks to block out the light. Hotels and guesthouses here are well-prepared for this, providing ways to make rooms dark enough for a good night’s sleep despite the constant daylight.

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Iceland, with its fire and ice landscapes, is a place that'll knock your socks off any time of year. But when's the best time to go? Well, that depends on what you're after. Are you dreaming of endless summer days, or are you itching to catch the Northern Lights dancing across the sky? Maybe you're hoping to spot some puffins or take a dip in a warm lagoon while snowflakes fall around you. Whatever your Iceland dream looks like, there's a perfect time to make it happen. Let's break it down month by month to help you plan your ideal Icelandic adventure.

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The Northern Lights are one of the most sought-after natural wonders of the world. Viewing them is a common bucket list item for many, but most do not get a chance to see them in their lifetime. Iceland is home to some of the best aurora activity due to the country's long Northern Lights season and dark skies.

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When Is the best time to book flights for the holidays?

Travel expert: 2024 travel outlook.

New year and new destinations may be in store for you in 2024. Bob Berry, travel service specialist with Cruise Planners joins LiveNOW from FOX to discuss top destinations, safety and tips you can use to plan your dream trip this year.

With the holidays just around the corner, it's time to start looking into booking your flights. 

Google has released some of the best times to buy your airline tickets, based on four years of aggregated Google Flights data and other trends. 

Here's the latest insight, according to Google. 

Domestic flights

The average price for U.S. domestic flights is at its lowest 38 days before departure. Historically, prices dipped at their lowest between 21–52 days before takeoff.

International flights

People looking to fly to another country should look at airline prices as early as they can. Average prices are usually at their lowest 101 days before departure. Historically, the low price range is anywhere from 50 days or more before takeoff. This means international airline tickets don't dip before departure but instead rise within 50 days of departure. 

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Thanksgiving

For domestic flights, prices have been found to be at their lowest 45 days before departure, and the low price range is 26–59 days out. With that, the best time to start booking flights is in early October. 

For domestic flights, you should know that prices have been at their lowest 58 days before departure, and the low price range is 36–72 days out. That means the best time to book your Christmas flights is the latter half of October.  

iceland holidays best time to visit

A United Airlines aircraft on the tarmac at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in Newark, New Jersey, US, on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024. Photographer: Yuki Iwamura/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Spring break 

If you're planning a spring break trip within the U.S., sometime between March and April, the lowest prices have been 44 days before departure, and the low price range is 33-59 days out.

RELATED: Southwest Airlines Companion Pass offer: What to know about buy-one-get-one flights deal

Summer vacation 

If you would like to fly within the U.S. in July or August, some last-minute bargains are available. Prices have been lowest 21 days before departure, and the low price range is 13-43 days out.

Trips to Europe

If you want to fly to Europe, airline tickets tend to be the cheapest  94 days before departure. Historically, the low price range is 50 days or more before takeoff.

Google Flights has a new feature to help you save money

An upgrade to Google Flights will tell you the best time to book your next getaway.

Trips to Mexico or the Caribbean

Google says these trips are usually the exception when talking about international travel. Prices for airline tickets to these places have been lowest 44 days before departure, and the low price range is 26-68 days out.

Which day of the week should I buy airline tickets?

Google says there's really no good day of the week to book an airline ticket. However, Tuesday has historically been the cheapest but only 1.3% cheaper than the most expensive day, Sunday.

RELATED: Nearly 30% of young travelers dismiss relaxation-focused vacations: study

What's the cheapest day to fly?

Google says the cheapest days of the week to fly are Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday, which have been 13% cheaper than flying on Friday, Saturday or Sunday. If you exclude international trips, the potential savings jump to 20%.

Which is cheaper: layover or nonstop?

Google said on average, nonstops have been 25% more expensive than flights with stops, but it may be worth it depending on how quickly you want to get to your destination. 

IMAGES

  1. 15 best places to visit in Iceland

    iceland holidays best time to visit

  2. When Is the Best Time to Visit Iceland?

    iceland holidays best time to visit

  3. 7 Reasons Why The Best Time To Visit Iceland Is The Off-Season

    iceland holidays best time to visit

  4. 7 Reasons Why The Best Time To Visit Iceland Is The Off-Season

    iceland holidays best time to visit

  5. The Best Time to Visit Iceland: The Complete Month-by-Month Guide

    iceland holidays best time to visit

  6. The Best Things to Do in Iceland During the Winter

    iceland holidays best time to visit

VIDEO

  1. 8 Seconds to Explore 12 places to Visit in Iceland!

  2. "Discover Iceland's stunning landscapes, from icy glaciers to geothermal wonders. #traveltheglobe

  3. Best Times to Visit Iceland! Winter vs Summer #shorts #travel #funny #viralvideo #adventure #explore

COMMENTS

  1. Best (And Worst) Time To Visit Iceland (Month By Month!)

    While the beginning of the month is still as warm as July, temperatures start to go down by the end of the month. August is the best time to go to Iceland if you do not mind the crowds due to the fairly standard daylight hours. The sun sets around 9 PM and rises around 5 AM. August has the least cloudy days as well.

  2. These Are the Best Times to Visit Iceland

    The best time to visit Iceland and enjoy good weather is, of course, the busiest time: the summer months. The daytime temperature in Iceland in July and August hovers around 55 degrees Fahrenheit ...

  3. Best time to visit Iceland

    June to August is the best time for outdoor recreation. While there's no good weather guarantee, this is your best chance of sun and warmish temperatures. Late June to early August is when most Icelanders go on vacation, filling up campgrounds wherever the best weather is forecast. This is the height of the tourist season - and height of ...

  4. The Best & Worst Times to Visit Iceland (Updated for 2024)

    The summer is the best time to visit more remote regions of Iceland, especially the interior highlands. Due to the mild weather, even remote rural regions are accessible during this time. According to the official Iceland tourism board, challenging trails like Landmannalaugar are only accessible from mid-June to mid-September.

  5. When Is the Best Time to Visit Iceland?

    For camping enthusiasts, the best time to visit Iceland is during the summer months, particularly from June through August. ... The time between Christmas and New Year's is like a holiday daze when people spend their time reading books, and enjoying their presents until the huge party on December 31st. If you're staying in a hotel in downtown ...

  6. The Best Time to Visit Iceland

    The cheapest time to visit Iceland is during the low season, which runs from November to April. There are fewer tourists too, which means flights, hotels, and any other rentals will be at a lower ...

  7. Best time to visit Iceland

    While its far north ocean location makes for fluctuating weather, summer is the best time to visit Iceland. June-August offer long daylight hours, low 20°Cs warmth, plus summer festivals. Dry weather inland makes this prime hiking season. May to September is the best time of year for Iceland if you want to go whale watching.

  8. The Absolute Best Time to Visit Iceland

    Discover when is the best time to visit Iceland in this month-by-month guide to one of the world's top travel destinations. It's not when you think. ... Holidays in Iceland. New Year's Day - 1 st of January, where most businesses are closed until the 3 rd. 12 th Night - 6 January, ...

  9. Best Time to Visit Iceland: Seasons, Tips & More

    The summer months of June, July, and August make up Iceland's peak travel season; this is the country's busiest time for tourism. The weather is the most pleasant in the summer, with the highest temperatures, mostly sunny and bright days, and the least chance of wind, rain, and storms.

  10. The Best Time to Visit Iceland

    The Best Time to Visit Iceland. While there are many unique travel opportunities, various adventures, and great events year-round in Iceland, the best time to visit Iceland is in June when the weather starts to warm up and the country experiences 24 hours of sunlight. However, if you're planning your first trip to Iceland, the best time of year ...

  11. Best Time to Visit Iceland: Your Complete Guide

    Best time to visit for the midnight sun. To experience the midnight sun, you must visit Iceland during the height of the summer, between May and July. The longest day of the year is at the summer solstice on the 21 June, which means this is when midnight sun peaks in Iceland.

  12. Best Time to Visit Iceland

    Summer (June to August) Pros: Midnight Sun: Experience nearly 24 hours of daylight, allowing for extended exploration. Mild Weather: Temperatures range from 10-15°C (50-59°F), making it perfect for outdoor activities. Accessible Roads: The highland roads (F-roads) and remote areas are open and accessible.

  13. When is the best time to visit Iceland?

    We've gathered the high and low seasons, and when's best for what so that you have an understanding of what you'll get out of each month of the year. High season: June to August and late December. Shoulder seasons: May and September. Low season: November to April, excluding school and public holidays. Gullfoss Geysir, Iceland Getty Images.

  14. The Best Time to Visit Iceland: Top Seasonal Destinations

    Find the best time for Iceland travel. Plan your trip around top places, seasonal activities, and stunning natural wonders. ... Pros: Spectacular Northern Lights, magical ice caves, winter sports, cozy holiday atmosphere (in December). Cons: Short daylight hours, possible weather-related travel disruptions, cold temperatures. Northern Lights.

  15. The Best Time to Visit Iceland: Winter vs Summer

    Autumn (September to November) showcases the colourful transition of landscapes. You'll be met with fewer crowds, cultural events, and the chance to see the Northern Lights. Winter (December to February) offers the magical allure of snow-covered landscapes, Northern Lights displays, and unique ice cave explorations.

  16. These are the best times to visit Iceland

    The cheapest times to visit Iceland. If you don't really care about weather-specific activities, my advice is to take advantage of the shoulder seasons in spring and fall when crowds are thin and accommodations are cheaper (think: March, April, September and October). There are often cheaper flights during these time periods as well.

  17. Best Time to Visit Iceland and Save Money

    The good news is that these are also off-peak travel times, and hence—the cheapest times. The best time to view this world-attracting spectacle is between 9:30 pm to 1:00 am. But you still can't bank on weather conditions favouring you. Not in Iceland, nor in many other countries either.

  18. Best Time to Visit Iceland

    The best time to visit Iceland very much depends on what you're looking to see and do. The seasons in Iceland change a lot, which means that you get completely different vacation experiences and tour opportunities throughout the year.. Summer in Iceland is the most popular time to travel due to the milder weather, broad range of outdoor activities, and the captivating midnight sun.

  19. Best Time to Visit Iceland

    May is the best time to visit Iceland if you're wanting a good balance between crowds, costs, and climate. The days are lovely and long, if a little chilly, there are fewer tourists, and prices are still low. Temperatures are still fairly low, with the average maximum rarely peaking over 10°C.

  20. When Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland? Seasons & Weather

    When Is The Best Weather? The best time to visit Iceland for great weather is during the summer high season. July and August have average highs around 13°C (55°F) however temperatures can be as high 20°C (68°F). Surprisingly, the spring months of May and June have the least amount of rain.

  21. What is the Best Time to Visit Iceland

    Best month to visit Iceland. If you don't know what month will be best for you, read on about the best time to visit Iceland month by month. January: best for quiet tranquility. January offers tranquility and magic with fewer crowds. Short days (11 am to 4 pm) increase Northern Lights chances. Snowy landscapes provide a backdrop for winter ...

  22. 14 things to know before visiting Iceland in 2024

    Icelanders prefer not to mar beauty with obvious signs, or railings, instead they rely on people to be smart. If there are signs or barriers, heed them! 3. Plan ahead when hitting the road. Having your own wheels in Iceland is a wonderful treat: it allows you to roam the grand countryside at your leisure.

  23. 12 best places to visit in Iceland in 2024

    Here are our favorite places to visit in Iceland in 2024. 1. Mosfellsbær. Best for a quiet escape near Reykjavík. Reykjavík's friendly rural neighbor is Mosfellsbær. Its biggest attractions are the small mountains that surround the town, including Úlfarsfell, Mosfell, Helgafell and Reykjafell - all great for short hikes.

  24. Iceland Holidays 2024/2025

    The best time to visit Iceland varies depending on your preferred activities. During the summer months, June to August is the best time to visit Iceland for hiking and fly drive holidays, as the long days of the Midnight Sun allow you longer to explore unique landscapes and outdoor activities.

  25. Daylight Hours in Iceland by Month: A Full Guide

    December is the darkest time of the year in Iceland, with only 4 to 5 hours of daylight. The sun rises around 11:30 AM and sets by 3:30 PM. While this might sound intense, the winter solstice and Christmas lights bring warmth and coziness to the long nights. December is a magical time in Iceland, with plenty of holiday celebrations.

  26. What I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Iceland

    The next time I visited Iceland was to hike rhyolite mountains and obsidian slopes on the Laugavegur trek, while most recently, I visited for a writing residency on Hrisey, a teardrop shaped island off the north coast, where the northern lights danced above me on clear nights. What I like best about Iceland is its wildness.

  27. When Is the best time to book flights for the holidays?

    That means the best time to book your Christmas flights is the latter half of October. A United Airlines aircraft on the tarmac at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in Newark, New Jersey ...

  28. Mystery Holiday™: Maldives, Bali, Mexico, New York & More!

    The holiday provider will aim to contact all customers within 5 working days from the date they have completed the redemption process. From time to time this deal receives a high level of demand and waiting times can increase to 10 working days. Holidays are valid on selected flights only; further charges may apply for alternative flights.