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

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

February 19, 2022 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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!

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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?

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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 more.

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.

Over the last decade, Iceland has become one of Europe's "it" destinations thanks to its ethereal — and highly photogenic — landscapes featuring ancient glaciers and rugged fjords.

Before you book your flight to this popular island nation, you'll want to think about everything you want to see and do on your trip because the time of year can determine what's available. Some attractions, like Iceland's 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 Seasons:  June to August and late December
• Shoulder Seasons:  September to 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. Iceland can stay relatively warm through the first week of October, so planning a September visit can be ideal since most crowds have thinned as children return to school. May, too, provides ample daylight for sightseeing, warmer temperatures, and fewer crowds.

The off-season between November and April is ideal for those looking to escape the hordes of tourists, as long as you don't mind the dark (by mid-winter, expect only five or six hours of daylight). Though some roads are closed, it's a glorious time to enjoy hot springs, backcountry skiing, and tours by snowmobile or jeep. You'll also have a better chance of spotting the northern lights. Tourism tends to pick up again during the holiday season, so avoid December if you're looking for a crowd-free vacation.

Courtesy of Visit Iceland

Best Times to Visit Iceland for Good Weather

During the summer months — July and August — the temperature in Iceland hovers around 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a popular time to visit. And June, with its 24 hours of daylight, sees just about as many tourists as the peak of summer. But 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, with temperatures between 43 and 52 degrees Fahrenheit. May is similar, but if you're keen on exploring some of the more remote hills and fjords, it might not be 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

Getting to Iceland can be relatively affordable, especially compared to other European destinations. Travelers from the United States and Europe frequently find flight deals — keep an eye out for sales on Icelandair and low-cost airline Play to save even more on your journey.

Accommodations, tours, attractions, and meals can be pretty pricey throughout the year, but you might be able to save money by visiting during the off-season, which is typically late fall through early spring, excluding December. Summer is usually the most crowded and expensive time to visit.

Best Time to Visit Iceland for the Northern Lights

You'll need three essential factors to see the aurora borealis: darkness, clear conditions, and a surge in solar activity. 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. Of course, 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 exploring more remote corners of the island like the Westfjords or East Iceland, which have their own cache of fjords, vistas, and waterfalls that are just as impressive as the natural attractions surrounding the capital — if not more.

When is the best time to visit Iceland in 2024?

Mar 7, 2024 • 5 min read

Summer is the best time to take an Iceland road trip © Klaus Vedfelt / Getty Images

There’s no such thing as the perfect time to visit Iceland as the weather is notoriously whimsical and the best season for your trip depends entirely on what you want to experience.

Mid-summer is glorious with eternal daylight courtesy of the midnight sun. This is the time for hiking, camping and exploring the wilderness, and when most services are open. The down side is many destinations will be packed with tourists.

We've got all the information you need about the highs and lows of different seasons. Whenever you choose to visit Iceland, pay attention to forecasts and road conditions and follow any safety advice issued by Icelandic authorities . 

December to January is best for seeing the Northern Lights

Christmas lights brighten up the darkness and a festive spirit is in the air as the dark season nears its peak. Frost glitters and snow transforms landscapes into winter wonderlands. Christmas markets are held in Heiðmörk outside Reykjavík, in Hafnarfjörður and on Ingólfstorg square in Reykjavík, which has the added bonus of an ice rink. If conditions are right, the first ski resorts open up.

The sparse daylight means that you have a better chance of seeing the Northern Lights, especially outside populated areas where there is less light pollution (find a Northern Lights forecast here ). Joining tours is advisable. While it is possible to drive yourself, road conditions are often slippery and snowstorms are common.

Festivals worth checking out in winter include Dark Music Days and þorrablót mid-winter feasts, celebrated around the country. For the brave, restaurants often serve special þorri food.

February to March is the best time for snow sports and hot springs

It’s still dark and cold so communities brighten up the darkness with events like the Winter Lights Festival in Reykjavík and List í ljósi festival in Seyðisfjörður in the East. In narrow fjords in the Eastfjords and Westfjords, inhabitants celebrate the return of the sun with sólarkaffi and have pancakes. Snow sports become more enjoyable as daylight gradually returns.

Spring is an abstract concept in Iceland as the weather doesn’t always play along. It can still be cold and snowy, but the days get longer and the sun sometimes shines on skiers – this is often the best time for snow sports. The first of the migrant birds arrive and slowly but surely, nature springs back to life. Around Easter, events like Easter egg hunts are a fun family activity. In Ísafjörður, the Aldrei fór ég suður music festival is held and Ski Week  is around the same time.

April to May is the best time for off-peak travel

While the weather is still unreliable, temperatures gradually rise. The first flowers blossom and trees bud. Migrant birds arrive in flocks and lambs and foals are born. Migrant whales have also returned and with better weather, whale watching is more enjoyable. The bird-watching season begins, although some areas may be closed due to nesting.

There are relatively few tourists around and if conditions are good, this can be a good time for a  road trip . Look out for off-season discounts on accommodation and activities. However, not all tours and services have opened up yet.

The first Thursday after April 18th is the official First Day of Summer in Iceland, which is celebrated with parades and events around the country – even though the weather rarely plays along.

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 the whale-watching season – so whatever you have planned, it’s best to book ahead.

Expect crowds at the most popular destinations, like on the South Coast and the  Golden Circle . But as it’s bright all night, you can beat the crowds by traveling either super early or late. In July, Highland roads open up, but you'll need to book a tour or hire a 4WD vehicle equipped for F-roads and crossing rivers (if that’s your plan). Summer is the best season for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Around mid-August, wild berries ripen.

Summer is also festival season. Fishermen’s Day is a national celebration held in every seaside town on the first weekend of June. Around June 21, summer solstice is celebrated on Grímsey island, Iceland’s northernmost inhabited island. The Reykjavík Arts Festival is held every other year – the next one is on in June this year (2024).

Bræðslan music festival is held in Borgarfjörður eystri on the last weekend of July. Verslunarmannahelgi  is a weekend in August that is packed with festivals and events, and Reykjavík Pride has various events held throughout the city, culminating in the Pride Parade.

Reykjavík Culture Night and the Reykjavík Marathon are held on the third weekend of August.

September to November is best for cultural events

Nights grow colder and camping is no longer advisable as fall rolls into winter. The weather is often good, though, so hiking can still be enjoyable. Pay attention to weather forecasts and bring warm clothing. Nature starts to change colors, painting forests and heather yellow, orange and red. Þingvellir National Park is at its most beautiful.

Road tripping is still possible and there will be fewer travelers around. However, winter is around the corner, so roads get slippery as soon as the temperatures drop and conditions can get stormy.

Réttir sheep and horse roundups are held in the countryside, and the Reykjavík International Film Festival takes place in the capital. In East Iceland, the Days of Darkness festival is held around Halloween and the Iceland Airwaves music festival is held in Reykjavík. Advent is approaching and Christmas preparations begin. This is a great time for visiting galleries and museums, going to concerts, relaxing in heated swimming pools, and feasting on good food.

This article was first published February 2021 and updated March 2024

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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.

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 !

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.  

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.

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. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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. Average high 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. 

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. 

• 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 .

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Christina Grayt

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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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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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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 .

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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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The Best Time to Visit Iceland

By Amber Port

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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:

• 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.

• 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 .

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

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.

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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.).

• Best time to visit Iceland

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Whilst Iceland has no trouble giving travellers 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, best time to visit iceland month by month, best time to see the northern light in iceland, planning for your iceland road trip, best time to visit iceland: events and festivals, tailor-made travel itineraries for iceland, created by local experts.

8 days  / from 2092 USD

Iceland: A Game of Thrones Road Trip

This themed road trip will take you around Iceland, home to many filming locations of the hit TV series, Game of Thrones. Travel around the country's coastline, past the many dramatic glaciers and cliffs, relax in geothermal spas, and spot whales in the rough seas. Warning: Spoiler alert!

8 days  / from 2052 USD

Iceland's Wild West

Welcome to the road trip of a lifetime, which will bring you to some of western Iceland’s wildest and most remote spots. On this adventure, you will pay unforgettable visits to Hraunfossar Waterfalls, as well as the Barnafoss and Deildartunguhver hot springs, and much more!

6 days  / from 1680 USD

Iceland's Highlights from East to West

Take a flight to the East where you get to enjoy the enchanting Eastfjords before you drive south. If you are looking to focus on a few regions with a mix of the most popular sights and something off the beaten path; and to avoid backtracking with a one-way domestic flight, this is the perfect trip.

Tailor-made trips for   Iceland

The best time to visit Iceland varies greatly depending on the activities and experiences you are seeking. For outdoor recreation, 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. For snow sports enthusiasts, February to March is the prime time, with Iceland's winter landscapes providing perfect conditions for skiing and snowboarding. Lastly, if you prefer off-peak travel to avoid crowds and potentially lower costs, April to May is an excellent choice, offering a quieter yet equally beautiful experience of Iceland.

Best times to visit Iceland for good weather

The ideal time for favorable weather in Iceland is the summer season, extending from late June to September. Temperatures during this time range from 12°C-20°C, and the sunny setting in Reykjavik is a delight to experience. The vibrant purple lupines flourish over the meadows, making it an ideal time for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of Iceland.

Best times to visit Iceland with fewer crowds

Planning a trip to Iceland during the shoulder seasons of March, April, May, and September can help you avoid the tourist rush. During these transitional months between the peak and off-peak seasons, you can enjoy relatively good weather with fewer crowds. The sights and sounds of the glaciers, hot springs, and northern lights can be thoroughly enjoyed without the hordes of tourists.

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 ©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.

Iceland peak season

The peak travel season in Iceland spans from June to August. During these months, the country experiences the mildest weather, longest daylight hours, and offers the most activities. The radiant midnight sun is a spectacular sight in June and July. This period sees the highest tourist influx, making it the most vibrant but also the most crowded.

Considered the best time for outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking, it's also perfect for reveling in the rich wildlife of the country. It is particularly great for spotting whales and birds. However, the high footfall of tourists also means spiked prices and crowded destinations. It’s recommended to book accommodations , transportation and trips in advance if you plan to visit during the peak season.

Iceland shoulder season

Shoulder season in Iceland, consisting of May, September, and early October, offers a balanced mix of good weather, reasonable prices, and lesser crowds.

In May, the snow has begun to melt, the nights are filled with stunning sunset hues, and the low-season hotel rates can prove a steal. Attractions, however, are less crowded, and many museums and sites that close during the winter are now reopening. The weather can still be unpredictable, with a breeze and potential snow in the country's interior.

September and early October are glorious months for landscape photographers and aurora borealis chasers. It's an excellent time to witness the extended pink dawns and dusks that paint the Icelandic landscapes, and partake in daytime hiking with nighttime vigils for the Northern Lights. The weather is relatively pleasant for longer periods, making it an engaging time for stargazing.

Iceland low season

Iceland's low season stretches from mid-October to the end of April. The most prevailing challenge during this time is the extreme cold weather, with temperatures often plummeting to -30 degrees Celsius. Add to this the wind chill, and it can feel even colder. Daylight, too, becomes scarce, with December offering only about four hours of light each day.

But winter in Iceland also has its own charm and advantages. One major highlight during the low season is the breathtaking ice caves and glaciers that come into their prime, providing an arresting sight for nature lovers. Additionally, fewer tourists lead to less crowding at popular attractions and in towns.

On the downside, it's difficult to get off the beaten track due to road closures. Many outdoor activities and attractions close down during this period except for those catered to experienced winter adventurers. Despite these limitations, it's worth noting that low season is synonymous with lower travel costs and offers an entirely different perspective on Icelandic landscapes. 

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.

Visiting Iceland in January

For those seeking tranquility and a magical winter wonderland, January is a fabulous time to visit Iceland. It is one of the quietest times, meaning key attractions are significantly less crowded. The days are short, with the sun rising around 11 am and setting around 4 pm. Even though these short dark days can mean reduced sightseeing time, they also increase your chances of witnessing the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights.

The January landscape is covered in crisp white snow, providing a breathtakingly beautiful backdrop for winter activities such as snowmobiling, and ice cave exploration. Furthermore, thermal baths and hot springs offer a respite to the sub-zero temperatures, which can range between -10°C and 0 °C.

Visiting Iceland in February

Visiting Iceland in February allows you to experience the beauty of the country in its winter glory. Temperatures range between -10°C and 8 °C and the days provide more daylight hours than in January, though sunlight continues to hang low, giving Iceland a golden tinge, making for some fantastic photo opportunities.

One of the biggest attractions in February is the high probability of catching the Aurora Borealis, creating vivid displays in the Icelandic night sky. The sight is so captivating that it draws numerous tourists from around the world. Also, weather permitting, you can venture on iceberg, waterfall, or glacier tours outside the city.

Visiting Iceland in March

Visiting Iceland in March offers a unique blend of winter's beauty and the emerging signs of spring. This time of year is ideal for experiencing a mix of snow-covered landscapes and longer daylight hours, allowing for extended sightseeing. It's a fantastic period for winter activities like snowmobiling, glacier tours, and especially for viewing the Northern Lights, as the nights are still dark enough for their vivid display. 

March in Iceland also marks the beginning of the whale watching season, providing an opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. 

Iceland northern lights © Shutterstock

Visiting Iceland in April

April is the harbinger of spring in Iceland and serves as an attractive time to visit. Days grow longer, with approximately 14 hours of sunlight, and the icy landscapes slowly start to thaw. The temperatures can range from 3-6°C, offering a relatively pleasant climate for outdoor activities.

While winter activities are winding down, there still might be some opportunities for snowmobiling or ice cave adventures, especially in the earlier part of the month. You can partake in brisk hiking excursions, taking in the crisp air and magnificent views as the country blossoms into spring. Southern Iceland regions around Skogafoss, Vik, and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon are particularly picturesque during these months.

Visiting Iceland in May

May is a fabulous time to visit Iceland, marking the transition from the shoulder season to the beginning of summer, with daily daylight hours surpassing fourteen. Temperatures range from 9°C to 12°C, providing an agreeable climate for various activities.

The onset of spring, coupled with lengthening days and the midnight sun, paints the country in vibrant colors. Landscapes become lush, and the blooming wildflowers add a special charm to the scenery.

Wildlife is another highlight of visiting Iceland in May. From whale watching tours to puffin-spotting excursions, wildlife enthusiasts are sure to enjoy their stay. The adorable puffin bird returns to the shores of Iceland starting in mid-April, so sightings are strongly probable in May.

Visiting Iceland in June

June marks the beginning of a spectacular summer season in Iceland when the country experiences the delightful phenomena of the midnight sun, with almost 24 hours of daylight and ample opportunities to explore the great outdoors.

Temperatures typically range from 9°C to 15°C, but the weather remains unpredictable, with bright sunny days often swiftly turning to heavy cloud cover or misty rain, so light layers and waterproof clothing come in handy.

The midnight sun is a sight to behold, it is when the sun is still visible even at midnight, creating a perpetual twilight. This phenomenon leads to some unforgettable memories and excellent photography opportunities.

Skogafoss waterfall, Iceland © Shutterstock

Visiting Iceland in July

July embarks on the height of summer, marking it as one of the warmest and busiest months in Iceland. It punches in 24 hours of daylight, kicking off the enchanting 'Midnight Sun' period. Average temperatures rest between 10°C to 15°C, leading to pleasant, sunny days that make outdoor exploration inviting.

The month is noted for its long, lazy days that stretch till almost midnight, followed by the sun rising again around 4 am. Trails for hiking, including the famous Laugavegur trail and those of the usually inaccessible Highlands, pop open and the eerie late-night light is irresistible especially for photographers.

Whale watching tours are in full swing in Iceland in July, which teams beautifully with snow-free roads for drives and hikes around the country. The 'Midnight Sun' also simplifies long drives along the iconic Route 1 or 'Ring Road,' which wraps around the island with plenty of must-see locations along the way.

Visiting Iceland in August

August is a veritable feast of summer in Iceland, making it a highly recommended time to visit. This month witnesses the country in full swing, with long daylight hours and temperatures generally ranging between 11°C and 15°C, slightly cooler than July but still warm relative to local standards.

Despite the summer rush, Iceland retains its freshness and appeal in August. The lush landscapes, blooming florals, and a voluminous burst of colors paint the most picturesque image of this Nordic land. Icelandic forests take on a remarkably green hue, lakes shimmer under the mild sun, and cascading waterfalls spring to life.

Visiting Iceland in September

September kicks off the autumn season in Iceland and serves up enchanting landscapes awash with oceans of red, brown, and gold—the best time to witness the country's fall foliage. The temperatures range between a comfortable 5°C (41°F) to 9°C (48°F). As the crowd thins out post the peak season rush, tranquil serenity sets in, and the country's beautiful destinations become less crowded.

One of the prime advantages of visiting Iceland in September is the opportunity to catch the Northern Lights. As daylight hours start to reduce, the equinox in mid-to-late September increases solar activity, making the conditions ideal for viewing this natural spectacle.

Hiking the Laugavegur trail is one of the best experiences in Iceland © Shutterstock

Visiting Iceland in October

October can be a magical time to visit Iceland, where the season shift from autumn to winter can be strongly felt. The weather becomes more unpredictable, with temperatures varying between 2°C (35°F) and 7°C (45°F), and the first snowflakes of the season might start to fall, dusting the already vibrant landscapes with a touch of winter's wonder.

While the days start to shrink significantly, the amazing spectacle of the Northern Lights becomes more prominent. This is one of the best times to chase the aurora borealis, with solar activity being high and less light pollution due to shorter days.

Natural wonders become a serene spectacle with pops of falling leaves colored in hues of red, orange, yellow, and brown. October is the last month when you can tour the highlands before the roads close for winter. Therefore, it's a great time to visit Landmannalaugar, Thórsmörk, or other highland attractions.

Visiting Iceland in November

Visiting Iceland in November means embracing winter's arrival as temperatures dip between -2°C to 3°C, becoming colder as the month progresses. The days also get significantly shorter, with roughly 6-8 hours of daylight, providing a whole different range of experiences to explore under darker skies.

Arguably the star attraction during this time is the mesmerizing Northern Lights, which make their appearance more reliably as nights get longer. A late-night sweep to chase these mystical lights can turn out to be a highlight of your trip.

Although the weather is chilly, the snowy landscapes and the waterfalls clad in winter dress present another level of beauty. November offers the opportunity for some unique winter activities like glacier hiking and exploring newly formed ice caves. Adventurers can also go snowmobiling on glaciers or try their hand at winter sports.

Visiting Iceland in December

Stepping into Iceland in December is like striding into a fairytale-like winter wonderland. With average temperatures ranging from -1°C to -5°C, this month delivers the country's most intense winter experiences, complete with snowfall, nearly round-the-clock darkness, and an enchanting Christmas atmosphere.

Look beyond the short daylight hours, and you'll find a capital city that's a slice of holiday magic. Reykjavík comes alive in December with Christmas lights illuminating the city, streets adorned with decorations, and 13 jovial Santa Clauses, the Yule Lads, bringing holiday cheer.

Furthermore, New Year's Eve in Iceland is a sight to behold. Locals and tourists alike gather to build bonfires and set off fireworks, making for a memorable experience and a spectacular welcome to the coming year.

For the most accurate live weather updates, you can check Accuweather .

Winder Wonderland at the Reykjadalur Steam Valley © Shutterstock

To witness the Northern Lights at their peak, aim for the winter months between September and April. This period, characterized by long, dark nights, contrasts sharply with the bright summer nights in Iceland, offering optimal conditions for observing this natural phenomenon.

Make sure to read our article about the best places to see the Northern Light in Iceland.

Between September and April

The ideal time to spot the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis or the Northern Lights in Iceland ranges from September to April. The period perfectly coincides with Iceland's darker months, providing ample nighttime hours for this natural light spectacle to shine through.

As sunlight begins to recede in October, the duration of darkness gradually lengthens, bringing increased opportunities to see the Northern Lights.  The display grows more pronounced from November to January, albeit with shorter daylight hours and extreme cold weather. However, clear skies during these months contribute to better visibility.

It's important to be aware that Northern Lights sightings are naturally unpredictable, relying on solar activity and sky clarity. Create a flexible itinerary to adapt to cloud cover or solar activity changes.

Tracking weather and solar activity through reliable online resources like the  Icelandic Meteorological Office  or websites providing  Aurora Forecasts  can help you gauge the most suitable nights for viewing the lights.

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:

• Thingvellir National Park: Being a UNESCO World Heritage site and away from the city lights, this park offers a darker sky, providing an optimal setting for viewing the Northern Lights.
• Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon : The floating icebergs on the lagoon add an otherworldly charm to the backdrop of the Northern Lights, resulting in visually stunning scenes.
• Vik : Located south of Reykjavik, the town of Vik, with its black sand beaches, offers a serene and somewhat surreal location to view the Northern Lights, with the dancing lights reflecting off the ocean waves.
• Snaefellsnes Peninsula : Enhanced by its remote location, the peninsula offers an excellent platform for Northern Lights viewing, with the added feature of the famous Kirkjufell mountain as a gorgeous backdrop.
• Grotta Lighthouse, Reykjavik: If you're based in Reykjavik and don't want to venture too far, the area around the Grotta Lighthouse offers one of the best viewpoints in the city. It's still crucial to have a clear and dark night for the best viewing experience.

Remember that viewing the Northern Lights is heavily dependent on the right weather conditions and solar activity. Therefore, keep a close eye on the forecast and be prepared to change your plans accordingly. It's always recommended to join a Northern Lights tour, wherein expert guides can take you to the best locations based on real-time forecasts and conditions.

Northern lights reflected in Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon © Krissanapong Wongsawarng/Shutterstock

Embarking on an Iceland road trip? Our guide helps you navigate this breathtaking landscape, ensuring a memorable journey through Iceland's natural wonders, from volcanic terrains to icy vistas. Let's get your adventure on the road!

Iceland's Ring Road – when you have time

Iceland's Ring Road, also known as Route 1, encircles the entire country, providing the chance to see the best of Iceland's breathtaking landscapes. Spanning 1,322 kilometers or 821 miles, it's an exceptional drive that can be completed year-round, but the best months for travel are between April and October when the weather is generally calmer.

The least duration advised to drive the scenic stretch is one week, but 10-14 days are recommended to immerse fully in the Icelandic landscapes and diverse attractions. This extended travel period provides enough leeway to explore major attractions such as Geysir, Thingvellir National Park, Vatnajökull National Park, Skaftafell National Park , the black sand beaches of Vik, the charming town of Akureyri , Myvatn , and much more.

You can drive in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, with accommodation options varying from hotels to guesthouses and camping sites along the way.

Pack plenty of food, water, and supplies for your journey, check road and weather conditions regularly, and ensure to fuel up wherever possible, as gas stations can be at a considerable distance apart.

Make sure to check Safetravel.is for the most recent updates.

Short road trips in Iceland

If time-constrained or preferring shorter trips, you'll be glad to know that Iceland boasts several shorter yet utterly mesmerizing road trips. Here a few recommendations:

• The Golden Circle: One of the most popular routes, the Golden Circle, is an easy day trip from Reykjavik. This 300 km loop covers notable sights like Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.
• The Blue Diamond Road: This route circles the Reykjanes Peninsula, located near Reykjavik and Keflavík International Airport, making it an easy day trip. This region is home to the famous Blue Lagoon as well as an array of lava fields, geothermal areas, bird cliffs, and beautiful coastline.
• South Coast Drive: A drive along the South Coast up to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach offers hulking glaciers, pristine beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and other natural wonders, all within 370 km from Reykjavik.
• The Arctic Coast Way and the Diamond Circle: Both situated in North Iceland, each route presents awe-inspiring landscapes, with the Arctic Coast Way encompassing 900 km of northern coastline, and the Diamond Circle featuring notable attractions like Dettifoss Waterfall and Myvatn Nature Baths in just 260 km.

Strokkur geyser along the Golden Circle © Shutterstock

Iceland's holiday calendar blends Christian and secular traditions, with some festivals dating back to pagan times. Familiar celebrations like Christmas, Easter Monday, and New Year are observed similarly to other Western nations.

The midwinter celebration Þorrablót, rooted in the Viking era, honors the weather god Þorri. Held throughout February, it features parties centered around traditional Icelandic foods like svið and hákarl.

Sjomannadagur (Seamen’s Day) on June 4 is a significant holiday, marked by community events such as mock sea-rescue demonstrations and swimming races. Independence Day on June 17 commemorates Iceland's separation from Denmark in 1944.

Jónsmessa, on June 24, while not an official holiday, is steeped in folklore, believed to be a time when elves and magical creatures are active. Celebrations often include bonfires and, according to tradition, running around naked for good health.

Verslunnarmannahelgi, akin to a Labour Day Weekend, occurs on the first weekend of August. Icelanders traditionally camp in the countryside, engaging in extensive celebrations. Concurrently, Heimaey in the Westman Islands hosts Þjódhátið, featuring live music and bonfires, marking Iceland’s partial political autonomy achieved in 1874.

An event of note is the annual stock round-up, or rettir, in September. During this time, horses and sheep are herded from summer pastures by riders on horseback, with some farms allowing guests to observe or participate in the sorting process.

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updated 29.03.2024

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The Best Months to Visit Iceland: Fewer Crowds, the Northern Lights, and Prime Puffin Spotting

The best time to visit iceland depends on your itinerary..

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Whether you want to see the Northern Lights or go hiking, Iceland has plenty to do and see throughout the year.

Ragnar Th. Sigurdsson/age fotostock

Iceland sparkles and awes year-round, but what you can do while you are there varies dramatically from season to season. For most visitors, the best time of year to visit Iceland is undoubtedly summer, since the daylight stretches to 20-plus hours, and even the most remote regions become accessible.

But the shoulder seasons in May and September are a chance to avoid the heavy crowds, and winter to spring, spanning from October to April, shows a completely different face of the country.

Here’s the best time to visit Iceland, depending on what you have planned for your trip.

Hiking and the Highlands

Best Months: June–August

Part of the majesty of Iceland, of course, is getting out into its roiling lava fields, up on its crater rims, and alongside its thundering waterfalls. Summer is prime for hiking because the snow has melted and the trails have begun to harden (no mud-slush for you!) Also, this is the season when the interior highland F-roads open to four-wheel drive (4WD) traffic and tours—check out Midgard Adventure in the south and Fjalladýrð in the northeast. Some roads begin to open as early as the beginning of June, but others may not open until deep into July, and then they begin to close and become impassable by late August or early September. Similarly, Hornstrandir Nature Reserve in the Westfjords is at its most accessible from June to August.

Plus, in the summer you have upwards of 20 hours a day of sunlight to get out and get moving, and the weather, though always changeable, is at its warmest, averaging from 46 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit. This is also peak time for other activities like rafting, canyoneering, kayaking, and diving the Silfra Fissure at Þingvellir National Park.

Avoiding the Crowds

Best Months: October–April

Iceland in winter, when the weather is cooperating, can give you thrilling opportunities to visit extremely popular places like the Dyrhólaey Peninsula and the Dettifoss waterfall without the crowds. As an added benefit, the car rental and hotel prices drop in some regions. Downside? Outside of Reykyavík, many tourist-dependent hotels, restaurants, and shops close in true winter.

Also, winter exploring is not for the faint of heart if you plan to drive yourself, as roads are often snowy or icy, and snowstorms regularly pass through. Iceland is well equipped, though, with excellent weather forecasting and websites for road conditions , and rental cars have snow tires (a 4WD vehicle is the best bet at this time of year). The rewards are giant: Think about the possibility of standing alone on a volcanic beach in a snowscape of white-and-black drama.

If true winter seems too intense, choose September or May—a good compromise, as average temps range from 40 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Best Months: May–September

One of the grand pleasures of a trip to Iceland is cruising its remote roads through open landscapes and along wave-swept shores, absorbing the majesty of the country. For example, you can make a wellness road trip in the Westfjords , connecting natural springs and town pools with the occasional luxe spa. Or go for a waterfall tour around the Ring Road. The experience is much better in good (or, at least, not bad) weather, so late spring to late summer is an ideal time to visit. However, during high-season summer, the Ring Road can get busy, especially in the south, where most tourists go, creating snaking lines of traffic. This is easily avoided, though, by simply venturing further afield—consider routes like the Diamond Circle route or the Arctic Coast Way .

Come to Iceland in the summer for a chance to have up-close encounters with adorable puffins.

Nicholas Kampouris/Unsplash

Wildlife Watching

Best Months: Puffins May–mid-August, birdwatching mid-May–July, whales April–September

A trip to Iceland offers the opportunity to see wildlife you don’t usually encounter in your backyard. Seasons vary by animal, of course, so if you’re looking for cavorting puffins, come starting in May, when they return from the open ocean, and get there before mid-August, when they leave again. The Vestmannaeyjar Islands are tops for their abundant colonies (they also have a beluga sanctuary), or go on a puffin tour at Ingólfshöfði in the back of a charming tractor wagon.

Birdwatching of other sorts is generally a summer activity in Iceland’s wetlands and lakes. like North Iceland’s Mývatn—birds are most active mid-May to mid-June as they arrive and build nests—and bird cliffs, like Látrabjarg in the Westfjords. Some areas close during nesting to protect the birds’ habitat. The elusive Arctic fox, the only mammal native to Iceland, is tough to spot. It’s most likely to be seen on the move near sunrise and sunset along coastlines and in summer when you can visit the Westfjords’ Hornstrandir Nature Reserve.

Whales and dolphins pass by year-round, and tours leave from Reykjavík, Húsavik (in the north), Grundarfjörður, and Ólafsvík (on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula), but April to late September or early October are the best months because the cetaceans arrive en masse to feed in local waters.

Animal activities, like excellent horseback riding or visiting the Icelandic goat farm at Háafell, though easiest in summer, happen year-round.

Cultural Life

Best months: Year-round

Part of Iceland’s immense charm is its welcoming, fascinating, vibrant people and their culture. And that’s available in all seasons. Sure, summer sees festivals like Pride, National Day, and Reykjavík Arts Festival , and cities and towns are wide open for business. But as darkness spreads across the land, Icelanders play on into the winter at music festivals Iceland Airwaves and Dark Music Days or the midwinter feast of Þorrablót, when Icelanders celebrate their culture, and you can sample fermented, smoked, and unusual (for you!) Icelandic fare. Reykjavík’s excellent museums, galleries, music clubs, and design shops boom year-round.

One of the best places to see the Northern Lights is by Skógafoss Waterfall.

Photo by Balazs Busznyak/Unsplash

Northern Lights

Best Months: September–April

Always a treasure hunt, the search for shimmering curtains of the Northern Lights is easiest with long winter nights—more darkness equals more chance to see them. But you need to find clear skies and high solar activity ( Aurora Forecast is a helpful resource). Interestingly, the most activity occurs around the equinoxes (September/October and March/April), when solar particle ejections are at their highest, though you have a shot from November to February as well, simply because there are up to 20 hours of darkness per night.

Snow and Ice Sports

Best months: glacier hikes year-round, ice caves October/November–March

Naturally, snow sports like skiing are best in winter, when there’s more snow. Same goes for ice caving, when these glistening complexes become more stable at glacier edges. But you can hike on glaciers, ice climb, and go snowmobiling throughout the year. In all seasons, go with a local guide (check out Icelandic Mountain Guides and Tröll Expeditions )—the crevasse-laden glaciers are never stable enough for newbies.

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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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.

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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 .)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

By Amber Port

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

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.

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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Best time to visit Iceland

The best time to visit Iceland is between September and March to see the northern lights, or between June and August for summer activities. While travel to Iceland may depend on your desired itinerary, generally, the best time to visit is during the summer. During this time, you’ll experience warmer temperatures and long days of sunlight, known as the spectacular midnight sun. While the summer boasts green countryside and animal spotting, the winter is the best time for the Northern lights and the country’s famous geothermal spas when they may not be as busy!

However, if you’re planning a trip to see something specific, such as the puffin or whale migrations, you’ll need to visit during a specific time of year. We've broken down some main factors to consider before choosing when to travel to Iceland.

The phenomenal cosmic light show, known as the aurora borealis or the Northern Lights, is a natural event that occurs from late September to late March. The long and dark winter nights make it an ideal time to visit, however, because it is a sporadic event, a definite sighting can't always be guaranteed. You may be more likely to see the lights during the equinoxes that occur around the 21st/22nd of March and September.

Learn more about the Northern Lights

Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon is a year-round natural geothermal pool that is said to have healing properties and is situated among a scenic Icelandic landscape. This mineral-rich seawater contains a mix of silica, algae and other bioactive elements that can be particularly beneficial for certain skin conditions.

While the lagoon is open all year, if you’re hoping to visit with slightly warmer weather, you may want to visit in the summer months (May to August). That said, many travelers love to visit the springs in the winter months to be surrounded by the beautiful snowy hills of the region while they relax in the outdoor lagoon.

The Icelandic coastline is famous for its whale activity due to the cold waters and favored feeding grounds of the local marine life. Between April to September is the best time to visit Iceland for whale watching as this is when the whales migrate north for the summer months. Keep a look out for humpback, minke, fin, sperm or even blue whales! You might even see other marine species such as orcas, dolphins, seals or harbor porpoises.

Best for: Þorrablót Mid-winter Festival and ice caves

While mid-winter weather and short days may deter some travelers, the colder months are also perfect for ice cave exploration and catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights. However, if you’d like to stay out of the weather, why not partake in the honoring of the Icelandic ancestors during the Thorrablot festival? While visiting in January, join locals on a historical Icelandic food tour that includes foods such as hangikjot (flavored smoked lamb) or brennivin (a local distilled beverage).

Best for: Winter Lights Festival and Northern Lights

February is one of the best times to visit Iceland for some exciting food and cultural events. The two festivals, Winter Lights and Food & Fun are hosted annually by the capital Reykjavik and can add spark some joy in the coldest and wettest months of the year! But keep a watchful eye out for the Northern Lights.

Best for: Northern Lights, winter sports, Iceland Winter Games and the Annual Beer Festival

The longer and brighter winter days of March make it an advantageous time for winter sports. If you’re looking to downhill or cross-country ski, snowboard, snowshoe or hike the terrain, the nearest mountain is only a 20-minute drive away from Reykjavik.

Best for: puffins and golden plover migration, The Golden Circle  and smaller crowds

April marks the start of the spring season in Iceland and the breathtaking return of several local bird species, including the world-renowned puffins and golden plovers. While the locals celebrate the first day of summer shortly after April 18th, this month is a perfect time to visit for lower off-season prices and fewer tourists. Remember that there may still be an assortment of rain, snow, hail or shine, so pack accordingly.

Best for: whale watching, nature adventures and long days

May in Iceland sees the end of the cold winter months, however, temperatures still sit between 32-50,°F although there is less chance of snow. Towards the end of May, there can be up to 20 daylight hours which makes it a great time to do some fun outdoor adventures. Why not take a tour through the lava caves, hike your way across a glacier, snorkel or scuba dive in Icelan's pristine waters or even horseback ride along the countryside?

Best for: midnight sun, Hafnarfjörður Viking Festival, National Holiday of Iceland, Fisherman’s Day and the opening of some highland roads

Summer has arrived! With summer comes longer days and the peak travel season so prices are higher and attractions are busier. June is one of the best times to explore the natural wonders of the Icelandic countryside. However, with a great array of cultural, music and environmental festivals, there’s something for every interest. The end of May to the start of June is also the best time to see the famed midnight sun phenomenon in Iceland so make sure you bring a good sleeping mask!

Best for:   Braðslan, nature photography and long days

July is the busiest tourist month of the year for Iceland. With sunshine, greenery and longer days, it’s a perfect time to engage in the bustling city life or explore the vibrant natural scenery. If you’re looking for a slightly less crowded time, try to book in for the start of the month before the local schools are on break.

Best for: Reykjavik Pride, Reykjavik Culture Night, National Festival, Verslunarmannahelgi, Þjóðhátíð and wilderness exploration

Visiting Iceland in August usually ensures full access to the country’s wilderness as inaccessible areas in winter are now fully open. As one of the hottest months, the weather in August - while still unpredictable at times – is best for exploring the rugged and idyllic terrain of the glaciers, volcanoes, hot springs and waterfalls of the Icelandic wild. If nature isn’t your thing, the local scene has plenty of events and attractions to fill your itinerary.

Best for: fewer crowds and mild weather

September marks the end of the busy summer months but temperatures can still fall between 40-50°F. With the bulk of tourists on their way home, you’ll find lower prices and smaller lines for attractions. This is a great time to go if you’re looking to surround yourself with great music or film. Note that some highland roads will be closed by the end of the month for winter.

Best for: Northern Lights and berry picking

See the vibrant autumnal colors that blanket Iceland during October as the temperatures lower and leaves drop. As the colder months set in, plan for the Northern Lights as they can easily be seen at this time of year, especially when away from city areas without cloud cover.

Best for: hot springs, ice caves and Northern Lights

November brings winter into full steam with a drop in temperatures and daylight hours. Winter is often the most scenic time to visit one of Iceland’s many hot springs and relax in the white-blanketed scenery. With the drop in temperatures comes the reformation of the ice caves making November a perfect time to transverse the chilly blue caves and stunning glaciers.

Best for: New Year’s Eve, frozen waterfalls, glacier exploration, Christmas villages and festive lights

Looking to party into the new year? Iceland’s eclectic music scene and picture-perfect Christmas villages can provide you with day-to-night entertainment. While December is known as one of the coldest and windiest months, the Northern Lights are often viewable during this time. Just note that some hotels, services and attractions are closed during the winter.

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A Local’s Guide: What Is the Best Time to Visit Iceland?

Table of contents.

I’ve said it countless times and I’ll repeat it until I’m blue in the face: Iceland is a magical place.

No matter where you’re from or how well-traveled you are, its wild landscapes will take hold of your senses and fill you with wide-eyed awe. Over a million tourists flock to this remote island every year—three times the entire native population! But what is it that brings them here?

Volcanic mountains, black sand beaches, lava flows and moss fields, glaciers, fjords, waterfalls, geysers—and don’t get me started on the northern lights—all of these dramatic delights are what bucket lists were made for.

So, you might be planning your very own Nordic adventure soon. With so many sights to see, the first question on your mind is: “What is the best time to visit Iceland?”

As with most of life’s mysteries, the answer is not that straightforward, but stick with me to the end and you’ll learn everything you need to book your flight to Reykjavík without a second thought. Without further ado, let’s break the ice!

So, What Is the Best Time to Visit Iceland?

The short answer would be: there is no best month or season.

You see, while there are plenty of adventures in Iceland to keep you busy for a long time, not all locations or activities are available year-round. Choosing when to come depends entirely on what you’re hoping to find: Are you more of a hiker or a skier? Do you want to see the Highlands or tour the ice caves? Does your idea of a perfect holiday include whale watching or chasing the aurora borealis?

To help you choose your personal best time to visit Iceland, I’ve put together a rundown of what each season has to offer. Knowing the pros and cons, you’ll be able to plan your next trip around the activities you want to do, and the weather too.

Your Guide to the Seasons in the Land of Ice and Fire

The seasons are as varied as the topography, and each offers a distinct way to enjoy the landscape. Read on to learn more about what to expect throughout the year, from the weather to hours of daylight to the activities you can do.

Visiting Iceland in Winter

As the Earth slings along its orbit , Iceland gains one beautiful coat of paint after another. This transformation is most evident from November through March, when the island lives up to its chilly name. In the pale wintry light, the mountains and valleys are covered with deep blankets of snow, while the glaciers and ice caves emit an enchanting glow.

Temperature, weather, and daylight

Fast facts:

• Average temperatures run around -15ºC in the north and −5 °C in the south (5 and 23 °F)
• January and February are the coldest months
• Winters are twice as windy as summers, with speeds averaging around 6.4 m/s (14.2 mph )

People often imagine Iceland as perpetually frozen, but that’s far from the case. In the south, for example, temperatures are known to be remarkably mild, which makes winter hiking in Iceland not only doable, but enjoyable. Thanks to the moderating effects of the Gulf Stream, which flows along the southern and western coasts, the temperatures there average around -5 to 0 °C (23 to 32 °F).

The northern part of the country, however, lies just below the Arctic Circle and sees colder winters with average temperatures around −15 °C (5 °F). Out in the open wilderness, what really makes the difference are the winds; being greeted by an icy gale will instantly bring you to shivers. That’s why you need to know the golden rule: “Layers, layers, layers!” As any Nordic will tell you, there is no bad weather—only bad clothing.

So what are some activities you can look forward to in winter?

Ride into the icy wilderness

Powered by 4×4 drive, you can enter otherwise inaccessible regions and let your inspiration lead the way. Snowshoe to the peaks of dormant volcanoes, scale frozen waterfalls, hike across lava fields, and revel in the ever-changing landscapes on a winter hiking adventure in Iceland . As soon as the sky darkens, keep an eye out for the Northern Lights above.

Hike your way across giant glaciers

When we’re talking about the best time to visit Iceland for hiking, winter is a strong candidate for two reasons. The first is the ethereal beauty of the frozen landscapes, whose vivid colors and bewitching glimmer cannot be reproduced in summer, when the snowmelt reveals an unpleasant layer of volcanic ash. The second is the added challenge of facing the harsh winter conditions, which makes the objective all the more exciting (for some).

Bask in the radiant glow of crystal caves

Iceland’s caves are among my favorite sights in winter. There are two types to distinguish here: regular caves covered in sheets of perennial ice, and glacier caves, which are created when running water or geothermal heat carves a tunnel to the heart of a glacier. Their mesmerizing deep blue walls make for the perfect photo backdrop.

Visiting Iceland in Spring

Spring is Iceland’s off-season and the lull before the onrush of summer tourists. This means that, from late March to late June, you’ll be able see the highlights of your checklist, but without the crowds—or heavy expenses.

Iceland is a pricey destination, and visiting off-season is a good way to get your dream vacation without necessarily breaking the bank. Flight tickets, car rentals, entrance fees and other expenses will set you back significantly less while still delivering an experience to remember.

In these milder months, temperatures range from 0 to 10 °C (32 to 50 °F) and you can expect to have 10-13 hours of daylight. That should be more than enough to fill your daily itinerary to the brim.

Go huffin’ for puffins in early April

With its colorful beak and tuxedo attire, the Atlantic puffin is one of the most recognizable symbols of Iceland. These cute birds tend to nest along the island’s rocky coastline in early April, giving curious hikers a chance to snap memorable photos. You can find plenty of puffins on the South Coast or deep in the northwestern region of Westfjords.

Catch a glimpse of the largest mammals on Earth

Another favorite springtime activity in Iceland is whale watching. You can spot many different species circling the island, including minke, humpback, sperm whales and orcas. The two easiest ways of doing so are either driving to the coast of the North Iceland region (the towns of Húsavík and Akureyri are a safe bet) or simply going on a whale-watching boat tour in Reykjavík.

Witness some of the country’s 10,000 waterfalls

Come springtime, Iceland’s waterfalls are fed by abundant meltwater—these misty curtains rush and roar through glacial valleys and fjords with the beat of a thousand drums. Some of my favorites are the famous Gulfoss, which sits on the Golden Circle sightseeing route, the 200-meter Glymur located outside the capital, or the towering cascade of Seljalandsfoss, which can be admired from a nearby footpath that leads to a cave behind it.

Visiting Iceland in Summer

Summer is without a doubt Iceland’s peak season, when this frozen giant fully wakes from its slumber. With every corner of the island at your disposal, the opportunities are endless. Between June and August—Iceland’s warmest months—you’re free to go hiking the Laugavegur Trail or, surprisingly, ski touring in Iceland .

Temperatures in the summer range anywhere from 5 to 18 °C (41 to 64 °F) with 20-22 hours of daylight. The season is dry by Iceland’s standards, while the frequent winds make the days and nights pleasantly cool. Nevertheless, sudden changes in weather can happen at any time, so try to keep an eye on the forecast .

High season for hiking

While most people hike the Laugavegur Trail at this time, some prefer getting away from the crowds. Way, way away. If you belong to the latter group, hiking the Hidden Trails in Iceland is an immersive tour of the Icelandic wilderness that will scratch the itch of seclusion. Just note that a tour like this requires you have a professional guide by your side.

If you’ve ever wondered what an Iceland volcano hike actually looks like, this is the best time and place to find out. For more inspiration, check out our overview of best places to hike in Iceland . 

But if you’d like to explore away from the more popular Highlands, you can always head to the North in search of the finest volcano ski touring in Iceland. No wonder they call it the Land of Ice and Fire!

Heal your body and soul in natural hot springs

As one of the most volcanically active places in the world, Iceland is full of hot springs, which are created when groundwater heated by the Earth’s crust emerges onto the surface. Iceland’s hot springs can be found scattered all over the island (especially if you hike the hidden trails of Iceland ), along with man-made geothermal pools like the Blue Lagoon, which is a great summer spot for basking in the midnight sun.

Ski the slopes from summit to sea

Despite joining the backcountry fray later than most major destinations you know, this rugged snowland comfortably shreds with the best of them. The excellent backcountry ski touring on the Troll Peninsula is proof of that. For starters, there’s no tree skiing because, well, there are hardly any trees to speak of. Secondly, due to the island’s unique geography, you’re on perfect corn all the way to the mountain-kissing sea.

Trek through the surreal Icelandic wilderness

Many hikers consider summer to be the best time to travel to Iceland. Whether you’re going for a classic Laugavegur Trail guided hike or you’re on a mission to hike and climb the Three Peaks of Iceland , the colorful rhyolite mountains, jet-black sand beaches, and ancient fields of radiant moss will have you buzzing with vibrant hues and shapes.

Visiting Iceland in Fall

And finally we have fall, our off-peak, when the foliage casts away its green pigment and dons a bright autumnal coat. If you’re looking for the best season to visit Iceland for some peace and quiet in gorgeous scenery, September and October is the time to do it.

Throughout this short season, the temperature fluctuates between 2 and 6 °C (36 to 43 °F), which is still pleasant enough for multi-day trips in the wilderness. Even though the nights are not as long as in winter, more stable weather conditions significantly increase your chances of catching the northern lights when you hike and drive through isolated Iceland .

With no crowds to mess up your plans, you can map out whatever itinerary you’d like. In particular, if you’re looking for off-piste adventures, a backcountry skiing and van trip in Iceland will let you hit the open road to discover out-of-bound gems that may otherwise be busy or inaccessible.

Participate in “réttir”—Iceland’s annual animal roundup

Sheep are an integral part of Iceland’s culture, economy, and identity. Nowhere is this more evident than in rettir , one of Iceland’s longest traditions. Every fall, local sheep and horse farmers band together to gather their animals, which had been left to roam the mountains all summer. After the wrangling is done, a huge celebration ensues, complete with picnics, live music, dancing and drinking long into the night.

Hunt for wild mushrooms and berries

Fall is a wonderful time to go out looking for tasty treats to sweeten your day. In late August and September, a favorite local pastime is making jams and juices from hand-picked blueberries, crowberries, strawberries, and redcurrants. Also, after a productive day in the field, a hearty mushroom stew is just what the doctor prescribed. And the best part is—you can do all of this within the capital area.

Chase the northern lights

First of all, you should know that there’s no guarantee you will see the aurora borealis on your trip to Iceland. There’s always an element of luck to this pursuit. That being said, you can maximize your chances by knowing when to visit Iceland. 

Winter has more night hours on average, but fall profits from much stable weather. Generally, the period between September and December is the sweet spot, while February and March are strong contenders as well. For more info, you can check out professional photographer Tate Drucker’s tips on how to see the northern lights in Iceland .

Good-to-know Info For Visiting Iceland

Getting to and from iceland.

There are two ways of reaching Iceland: by airplane or by ferry. Around 20 airlines offer regular flights to Keflavík, the country’s main international airport. Located about 50km (31 mi) southwest of Reykjavík, this is where the majority of tourists arrive. To reach Iceland by ferry, you’ll need to board the Smyril Line from Denmark. This method is used by people who prefer to bring their own car.

Accommodation in Iceland

Like any tourist destination worth its salt, Iceland has a wide selection of accommodation options for international travelers, from high-class to no-budget. On the cheaper side, there are plenty of Airbnbs, hostels, and camping grounds available at all times. For a more luxurious experience, you can find dazzling downtown apartments, 5-star hotels, and cozy glass igloos for watching the northern lights.

Getting around Iceland

Iceland’s road system is extensive and fairly simple to navigate. The easiest way to get around is to follow the Ring Road, which circles the entire island connecting the most densely populated areas of the country. It’s open year round, except in case of extreme blizzards. To enter the Highlands, you need to take the F-roads, unpaved tracks that require 4×4 Jeeps. You can usually use them between June and August.

Travel costs in Iceland

Iceland is not the most affordable tourist destination, but there’s always a way to manage your budget, even if you’re hiking in Thorsmork or other remote spots. Your expenses will depend on what kind of experience you’re looking for. If you’re open to using local transportation, sleeping in hostels or camping, you could make do with around $80 a day. If you plan on renting a car, dining in restaurants, paying for museum fees and activities like whale watching, you’re looking at $250 or more a day.

Safety tips for Iceland

You’d be hard pressed to find a safer country anywhere. With one of the lowest crime rates in the world and no dangerous predators to speak of, Iceland is as good as it gets. The only real danger lies in the whims of Mother Nature. You should always be prepared for sudden changes in weather. In case of snowstorms and blizzards, don’t go into the wilderness without a guide and proper equipment, and make sure to check the forecast and road conditions regularly.

Why go on a guided trip in Iceland

If you’re just planning on sticking to the Ring Road and visiting the odd museum or marketplace in town, you’ll be just fine on your own. But for anything bigger, like exploring the ice caves, hiking on glaciers, or trying the best hikes in Landmannalaugar Valley , you’ll need a guide by your side. Their knowledge of the terrain, weather, history, and—most importantly—proper safety procedures are indispensable for any outing in the Icelandic wilderness.

In recent years, specialized trips for all-women and 50+ groups have become popular as well. These would be difficult to coordinate on your own, but organized trips, such as the co-ed hiking tour of Thorsmork for over 50s or the women’s great hiking voyage in Iceland , are a great choice if you’re traveling solo or interested in joining others of a similar age or gender.

Oh, the Bittersweet Temptation of Choices!

I hope I’ve managed to make your decision process at least a little bit easier. Planning a big trip like this is not an easy task, especially with so much conflicting information floating around the internet. 

When choosing the best time to visit Iceland, it’s important to consider your budget, timeframe, and which activities you’d like to try. No matter your age, experience, or fitness level, there’s enough wonders in this tiny corner of the world to keep you busy year round.

That would be all from me. Thanks for reading and safe travels!

Are you ready to enter the Land of Ice and Fire? Choose your best time for an adventure in Iceland and revel in its wild charms!

Albert is the owner of Amarok Adventures and has guided adventure treks in Iceland, Greenland, South America and Nepal. He has also worked as a documentary and travel photographer for international magazines. He has lived in Iceland since 2015, traveling the country discovering hidden gems and loads of adventure off the beaten path — always with his camera in tow.

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Best Time To Visit Iceland

When is the best time to visit Iceland? The short answer is anytime you like! Iceland is a year-round destination, punctuated by two heavenly highlights: the midnight sun in summer and the northern lights in winter. But every season has its special appeal – the best time to visit largely depends on what you want to see or do on an Iceland holiday .

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Iceland by Season... at a glance

• Lengthening days and warmer weather ideal for self-drive
• Quieter period before the busy summer
• Spring equinox marks peak in northern lights activity
• Birds, including puffins and golden plovers, arrive to nest
• Long days and midnight sun in the north
• Perfect conditions for hiking, horse riding, driving and other activities
• Peak season for whale watching May-Sep
• Interior Highland tracks open late Jun-mid-Sep
• Can be very busy; book as early as possible
• Quieter period following summer
• Golden autumn colours on the tundra
• Berry harvesting season
• September is a beautiful month for self-drives
• Northern lights visible from as early as late August
• Prime season for northern lights watching
• Orca watching in West Iceland
• Self-drive definitely still possible, especially in the south and west
• Ideal season for a short break in a country hotel
• Interior is closed except to 4WD super jeep tours

When can you see the northern lights in Iceland?

Northern lights watching is more commonly associated with winter, but spectacular displays of the aurora borealis can be seen over Iceland from as early as August. As the nights lengthen and darken, however, the northern lights shine brighter. The period either side of the autumn equinox in late September is a particularly rewarding time to scan the skies.

Iceland in Winter

November to March are the darkest months, with just 4-5 hours of daylight on the shortest day (21st December) – ideal for northern lights viewing. Far from being dark, cold and uninviting, winter in Iceland is a magical season. Long nights help maximise your chances of seeing the northern lights – especially if you stay at a lodge or hotel in the countryside away from city light pollution. Equally mesmerising, Iceland’s waterfalls become frosted with ice during winter, while snowfall forms a vivid contrast with its volcanic landscapes.

Although the interior is closed during winter to all but a few hardy Superjeep expeditions, the main road network in Iceland is kept largely open. Self-drive holidays and escorted tours provide a wonderful opportunity to explore Iceland in winter when there are few other visitors and the rugged landscape is raked by beautiful, low-angled sunlight.

Winter activities in Iceland include glacier walking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and dog sledding. Keen hikers may have to wait until summer to gain access to trails in the mountains and interior, but there are few things more invigorating than a winter walk along one of Iceland’s black-sand beaches.

Summer in Iceland

This is the season to experience the midnight sun. Iceland enjoys 24hr daylight from late May to mid-July, but to witness the best of the midnight sun you need to get as far north as possible (parts of North Iceland are just a few kilometres below the Arctic Circle) and time your visit to coincide with the summer solstice around 21st June. The merging of sunset and sunrise during mid-summer creates a magical few hours for photography in Iceland.

Just because it’s summer, don’t forget that ‘winter’ activities are also available thanks to Iceland’s perpetual icecaps. Even at the height of summer it’s possible to go snowmobiling or glacier walking on Vatnajokull or Langjokull. Summer is an ideal time for a self-drive holiday in Iceland. You can easily drive to many of the country’s most famous sights, such as Geysir and Gullfoss. Although tourist attractions in Iceland are not as crowded as other destinations in Europe, July and August are the busiest months – plan a fly-drive holiday in June or September and you’ll still enjoy long hours of daylight but with the added bonus of having many roads largely to yourself. Remember that Highland driving tracks in Iceland’s interior are often only open from late June to mid-September, and you’ll either need to hire a 4WD vehicle or join a guided superjeep safari.

What's special about Iceland in the autumn?

Tundra vegetation is burnished yellow, gold and orange during autumn – the stunning colours contrasting with Iceland’s black lavascapes or a dusting of early snow.

When the busy summer period is over, mild and often dry weather lingers into early autumn, making September an excellent month for a walking or self-drive holiday in Iceland. The days are still long (particularly early on in the month) and many summer activities are still operating. Photographers get the best of both worlds – rich autumn colours during the day and the chance of the northern lights at night – while hikers get to feast on an autumn harvest of blueberries, crowberries and redcurrants.

Iceland Weather

Despite its name and close proximity to the Arctic Circle, Iceland is not a frozen frontier perpetually locked in ice – a branch of the Gulf Stream brushes its southern and western coasts bringing mild Atlantic air across the country. This not only moderates the climate, but can also create changeable weather. You really can experience all four seasons in one day!

During spring, temperatures in the south averaging 0-10°C; any low-lying snow quickly thaws. It remains colder (and drier) further north. Although it’s generally mild and calm during summer, with the lowest rainfall of the year (around 50mm per month), the weather can still be fickle, especially in the highlands. July is the warmest month in Iceland. Daytime temperatures average 10-12°C, but highs of 20-25°C in the south and west are not uncommon. Nights begin to draw in by late August, autumn is still a wonderful time to visit Iceland. The days can remain relatively mild well into September, with temperatures reaching 10°C. In the south and west, the warming influence of the Gulf Stream keeps temperatures around 0°C during winter, but it can plummet to -20°C or more in North Iceland or the interior – especially when you factor in wind chill. Expect daylight hours to range from four hours in mid-winter to around 10 hours in late autumn and early spring.

Important dates

• Mid-late June: Secret Solstice Festival in Reykjavik – music under the midnight sun
• Early June: Sjomannadagurinn (Seamans’ Day) – celebration of Iceland’s maritime heritage with festivities and feasting in fishing villages around the country.
• Summer: East Iceland has a vibrant arts scene with villages like Seydisfjordur and
• Borgarfjordur Eystri hosting cultural and music festivals
• New Year’s Eve: Reykjavik has a dazzling fireworks display
• Late January: Dark Music Days festival, Reykjavik
• February: Winter Lights festival, Reykjavik

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When is the best time to visit Iceland?

• Month-by-month

The best time to visit Iceland depends on what activities you’d like to do, as some of them are seasonal. For example, you can only explore inland by 4x4 from July, once the snow in the highlands has thawed. Those who hope to see the northern lights should visit between November and February, when the nights are longest.

However, Iceland is a great year-round destination, enjoying a temperate maritime climate. Summers are short and cool, with temperatures between 9°C and 13°C, while winters are long but surprisingly mild, with highs of 3°C and lows of -2°C.

There can be unexpected rain throughout the year, so you should always be prepared for chilly, wet and windy days. Winter blizzards may delay travel plans, and late thaws in the highlands might affect travel in the summer. But, as Icelanders will say: if you don’t like the weather, just wait a bit.

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Month-by-month guide for travelling in Iceland

Visiting Iceland in January

The days are short and the nights are long, which improves your chances of seeing the northern lights in the dark, unpolluted skies. Festive lights continue to illuminate towns and cities — a welcome remedy to the wintry darkness. Daytime sightseeing needs to be planned carefully to coincide with the limited hours of sunlight.

Events & Festivals

• The Þorrablót winter festival is celebrated from mid-January to mid-February. Þorrablót is an old pagan festival originally celebrated by Iceland’s early settlers over a thousand years ago. Revived in the 1800s, it brings local people together to eat, drink, dance and sing traditional songs. A Þorrablót menu consists of traditional Icelandic delicacies, including hákarl (fermented shark), smoked lamb and svið (boiled sheep’s head). This is typically accompanied with brennivín — a schnapps made from potato and caraway. During this time, many restaurants will offer these dishes on their menus.
• The northern lights can be viewed in Iceland between early September and early April, if skies are clear and aurora activity is forecast. Chances of seeing them are best between November and February, when the sun sets before 6pm and the nights are longest.

Visiting Iceland in February

The days grow longer at a surprisingly rapid pace, which gives you more time for sightseeing and makes it easier to travel farther into the Icelandic countryside. At this time of year, you can take trips to see orca in the waters surrounding the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and there are still good opportunities to witness the northern lights strobing across the sky.

Visiting Iceland in March

The Spring Equinox officially marks the end of winter in Iceland, when daytime lasts as long as night-time. This means you can spend longer each day exploring Iceland’s geothermal landscapes and natural landmarks. There’s still a chill in the air, and winter activities such as ice caving are still popular. Although the nights are shorter, it’s still possible to see the aurora borealis late in the evenings.

Visiting Iceland in April

April is one of the quieter times to travel, so you’re better able to enjoy sights away from the crowds. Although the Icelandic summer has officially begun, it might not feel like it — rain and snow are still common and lots of summer activities, including puffin viewing, cycling tours and many boat trips, are not yet in operation. As the snow begins to clear, the grassy landscape turns pale yellow.

Visiting Iceland in May

The summer season officially begins, with temperatures becoming milder and more activities opening up throughout the country. The main road around the island — sections of which are often closed during winter storms — is usually fully accessible. Seabirds, including puffins, return to Iceland and you can see them nesting in large numbers on the rugged coastline. Toward the end of the month, lambs seem to be everywhere you look and lupine flowers bloom lilac across the countryside.

• From mid-May until mid-July, Iceland basks in 24 hours of daylight. The sun dips below the horizon at midnight and rises again at 3am, and it’s never truly dark between these hours. Instead, a pinkish twilight lingers in the sky.
• Kirkjubæjarklaustur Chamber Music Festival takes place in the summer (month varies) in southern Iceland, on a magnificent lava-field landscape.
• The Reykjavík Arts Festival takes place for three weeks each year in May or June. This is a major event in the capital that invites hundreds of artists from around the world to showcase their work.

Visiting Iceland in June

The summer solstice marks the longest day of the year, bringing 24 hours of daylight to Iceland as the sun barely dips below the horizon. By now, the landscape is a vivid green, which contrasts sharply with the country’s dark volcanic rock, making for some excellent photography opportunities. Some activities, including quad biking tours and whale watching, take advantage of the midnight sun and are available late into the evening. Plenty of festivals take place in the summer throughout the country, celebrating local arts, food and culture.

• Humarhátið festival takes place in late June or early July in the little town of Höfn, in southeast Iceland. Focused on local seafood, this is a great opportunity to try freshly caught Icelandic langoustine.

Visiting Iceland in July

Snow in the highlands has thawed and roads through Iceland’s wild interior are now accessible, offering opportunities to explore inland by 4x4. One of the most popular times to travel, visitors come to experience the midnight sun and Iceland’s vast array of outdoor activities. You can expect larger crowds at major attractions such as the Golden Circle, Lake Mývatn and along the south coast.

Visiting Iceland in August

The weather is mild and rainfall remains comparatively low. Visitors to Iceland reach their peak, so hotels should be booked well in advance and you can expect the country’s well-known landmarks and attractions to be busy. Many seabirds begin their migration south from the middle of August, so plan your travel at the beginning of the month if you’d like to see them.

• Fiskidagurinn Mikli (Great Fish Day) takes place on the first or second Saturday of August in the fishing village of Dalvík, in north Iceland. This is a big social event, with outdoor seafood buffets, and free fish soup offered in locals’ homes.
• Síldarævintýri (Herring Adventure Music Festival) is hosted in the town of Siglufjörður, in north Iceland, over the early August public holiday. In the past, the festival has featured a broad range of Icelandic music, from folk singing to Sigur Rós.
• Menningarnótt (Culture Night) is celebrated in Reykjavík in August. This is a major event, with roads closing for street performers and fireworks in the evening.

Visiting Iceland in September

As the peak summer season winds down, this is a quieter time to travel in Iceland while the whole island is still generally accessible. September is usually cooler and wetter than July and August, but many summer activities and attractions are still available. As you drive through the countryside, look out for the annual réttur taking place, when farmers round up the 800,000 sheep that have been roaming the land during the summer.

Visiting Iceland in October

October is typically the wettest month in Iceland, but there are noticeably fewer visitors compared to the summer months. Many summer activities are no longer available and adverse weather increases the risk of road closures, so travel is now generally limited to the south coast, north and west Iceland.

Visiting Iceland in November

As the nights draw in, the northern lights often appear in the sky. Seasonal winter activities, such as ice caving, are also now possible. Temperatures are cool, but there’s still plenty to do to lure you outdoors and the cold air makes the geothermal steam rising from hillsides become more pronounced.

Visiting Iceland in December

A wonderful time to visit Iceland, when festive lights illuminate towns and cities. Toward the end of the month, the sun lingers on the horizon for just four hours, creating a strange, ethereal twilight. Tours need to be planned carefully to make the most of the limited daylight hours, and, weather permitting, the northern lights frequently make an appearance.

• In the 13 days before Christmas, troll-like Jólasveinar (‘Yule lads’) are said to visit children one-by-one in the days leading up to Christmas. Formerly, they tried to play tricks on people, but now they leave children small gifts. You might see the Jólasveinar projected onto buildings in Reykjavík, and they visit some hotels to leave small tokens for guests.
• New Year’s Eve is the biggest party of the year in Iceland, when bonfires and fireworks are lit, and Icelanders gather to share the warmth and sing. Belief in elves (huldufólk) is widespread in Iceland and they’re said to be most active at New Year, so it’s common for Icelanders to reference them in songs at this time of year.

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The Best Time To Visit Iceland: A Season By Season Guide

Iceland, the Land of Fire and Ice, is a land of extremes. This remote island is a visual feast, with the midnight sun, the Northern Lights, stunning volcanic vistas, and fantastic fauna. The best time to visit Iceland will largely depend on what you want to experience there because the seasons vary so greatly this far north.

However, no season should be overlooked because there is always something interesting to observe. Iceland is off the beaten road for tourists, but some activities and times of year draw significant crowds, so reservations should be made well in advance.

Travelers from all over the world are drawn to Iceland by its magnificent landscape and incredible natural treasures.

Winter is the season for polar activities, such as seeing the northern lights or taking a swim in a geothermal pool like the renowned Blue Lagoon – or somewhere more off the beaten path.

Summer days draw masses who want to road-trip, trek, or party their way through the limitless daylight.

If you need assistance choosing the ideal time to visit Iceland to have the experience of a lifetime, continue reading.

We’ve compiled all the information to assist you in picking the ideal time that strikes the ideal balance between cost, climate, and people. Here’s how to choose the ideal time for your upcoming Iceland holiday, from the major events to the less busy off-season.

Table of Contents

Iceland weather conditions

The finest months for road vacations and hikes are from June to August .

The nicest weather of the year, with long, bright days, draws large numbers of tourists, especially to Reykjavik and the south. Pre-bookings are required because prices are at an all-time high.

You will be rewarded with limitless daylight, a tonne of events, and a tonne of outdoor activities even though it is busier and more expensive. The best time of year for hikers is when the highland mountain routes open to 4WDs in mid-June or later.

The ideal months to avoid crowds are May and September.

In the highlands, these months bring chillier weather and sporadic snowfall. The use of mountain roads is dependent on the weather. However, if you prefer sparser crowds and more affordable costs to clear days, now is the best time to visit.

The best periods for a low-cost vacation are in May when the days start to become longer but before the peak tourist season begins, and in September when the weather turns and there are fewer visitors.

The greatest period to view the northern lights is from October through April.

Mountain roads are blocked throughout the winter, and some minor routes are closed because of the weather. But there are lots of wintertime activities available, such as skiing, snowshoeing, and exploring ice caverns.

There are small periods of sunshine, but the lengthy evenings promise amazing natural light displays. To increase your chances of viewing the northern lights, pay attention to the weather prediction.

Although Reykjavk’s New Year’s Eve is growing in popularity among tourists, be advised that some hotels close between Christmas and New Year.

Best time to visit Iceland for Northern Lights

Iceland is frequently visited for the entrancing Northern lights (aurora borealis), also known as the Northern lights. The winter months are dark, making it easier to witness this amazing occurrence, while the distances between cities here make it easier to avoid light pollution.

There is always a slight possibility that you could miss the Northern Lights because, like most natural events, estimating their visibility is not an exact science.

Although there isn’t much you can do to encourage a solar flare or solar wind to boost your chances of witnessing the aurora, you can schedule your vacation during a period when there is a higher possibility that you will.

It is typically dark enough to see the Northern Lights from late March until September. The best months are those with little to no precipitation since clouds are the last thing you want.

Your chances of viewing the Northern Lights are higher in October and November because of the long nights and low likelihood of cloud cover. The Northern Lights can also be seen in February and March, but there is a minor increase in the likelihood of cloud cover during those months.

Best Time to Travel the Golden Circle

As the name implies, the Golden Circle is a circumferential route that leaves Reykjavik and passes through some of Iceland’s most breathtaking scenery. The majority of Iceland tours start and end here.

Thingvellir National Park , the Geysir geothermal area, and the Gullfoss waterfall are three of the country’s main attractions, along with a tonne of other little-known jewels.

You can complete the trip in a single day, or you can take your time and see some of the less well-known but still intriguing places along the way. A self-drive excursion at your leisure can be much more satisfying than a scheduled group tour, which can have you back at your hotel before an entire workday has passed.

While the long days and comfortable weather of the summer make it great for touring, it also has its drawbacks, including coachloads of other tourists. Accommodations along the way can be expensive if you’re doing a self-drive at this time of year.

Naturally, traveling the Golden Circle in the winter will give you an entirely different view of the scenery. Even though it will be freezing, you might be rewarded with views of the Northern Lights. The waterfall at Gullfoss will be frozen and mesmerizingly stunning at this time.

Cheapest Time to Go to Iceland

The least expensive season to travel to Iceland is during the winter, outside of the Christmas and New Year holiday seasons. This time of year is marked by bitter cold, short days with little sunlight, and occasionally impassable roads due to inclement weather.

The pleasant shoulder seasons of spring and autumn provide a middle ground between the warm summer months and the affordable winter months. You can still have nice weather and avoid crowds during these shoulder seasons.

Traveling off-peak season also allows you to wait for last-minute deals that can further reduce the cost of your lodging and transportation.

The Best Time To Visit Iceland

To assist you to find the perfect equilibrium of costs, crowds, and weather, we have compiled all the information for each month of the year.

Iceland experiences a chilly, dreary January. Since winds frequently approach gale intensity and average high temperatures are approximately 2°C, it feels colder than it is. There is a decent likelihood of both rain and snow.

There aren’t too many other tourists to deal with at tourist attractions, making it the cheapest time to travel to Iceland. It’s also very much low season.

The days are nevertheless brief and only provide a few hours of daylight for sightseeing. Due to weather conditions, several routes and attractions may be blocked or inaccessible.

Although it isn’t significantly warmer in February, there is a lower likelihood of rain and snow. There is more time for touring as the days grow longer.

Unless there is a severe storm, most of the roads should be passable by now. You’ll still benefit from low-season conditions because rates are low and touring is still enjoyable crowd free.

March continues to be chilly with sporadic days of rain. Unless you’re going to a higher height, snow is not likely. There is now a greater ratio of daylight to darkness as the days are growing noticeably longer.

Since there aren’t many visitors around, there aren’t many people out sightseeing. As there is a lot more daylight to explore the slopes, this is a perfect season for winter sports in the mountains.

In Iceland, the summer season has now officially begun. The landscape turns green as the snow melts, and migratory bird groups begin to arrive.

Although it’s still cold, with highs just in the single digits (Celsius), there is much less rainfall and the days are much longer. April marks the beginning of the main travel season, but prices and crowds are still reasonable.

If you want to visit Iceland when it’s not too crowded, expensive, or cold, travel in May. Although a little cool, the days are gorgeous and lengthy, there are fewer tourists, and prices are still reasonable.

The average maximum temperature rarely peaks beyond 10°C, although temperatures are still very moderate. Additionally, the weather may be unpredictable, as it does at all times in Iceland. Unless you’re going to the mountains, snow is doubtful.

Welcome to summer! The season for tourists officially starts and lasts for three months. Pros include the greatest weather, nearly unending daylight, a wide selection of trips and excursions, and the best lodging options.

Cons: There are a lot of people and the lodging must all be reserved in advance.

Similar to June, July draws lots of tourists with its extended sunny days and comfortable temperatures. The mid-teens is when the average daytime temperature is moving, but it can occasionally be much higher. On occasion, it might lightly rain.

As one of the busiest travel seasons for Iceland anticipates crowded sites, large numbers of visitors, and higher prices. There are several outdoor festivals and celebrations to go to if you’re in town during this time.

Southern Europeans are still traveling north for the holidays as the hectic tourist season continues. By the middle of the month, the puffins and some whales have left; by the end of August, the neighborhood children have returned to school, and the nights are getting longer.

In September, the days get considerably shorter as we get closer to winter. The amount of rain is greater at this time of year, and the average high temperature is just about 10°C.

Although not assured, the first northern lights observations are currently feasible. This is the off-peak season, so you may take advantage of the less crowded surroundings and affordable rates.

In October, the climate starts to feel a lot more like winter. Although it’s only technically autumn, the average highs dip into the single digits, the days are brief, and rain is frequent.

The weather hasn’t yet had an impact on the state of the roads, and the conditions are still favorable for sightseeing. Additionally, you’ll profit from lower crowds and off-peak prices. From October on, it is significantly simpler to see the northern lights.

The amount of daylight hours decrease along with the temperature. You’ll need to make wise use of the limited amount of daylight you have. Light rain is typical, and the likelihood of snow increases as you travel further north. The weather may prevent some routes and attractions from running.

Due to the low tourist traffic at this time, sightseeing is enjoyable and stress-free. In November, you might be able to get some excellent lodging rates.

Cities are transformed into merry winter wonderlands, with dazzling lights and holiday markets illuminating the gloom of the season. Rain and snow are both frequent throughout this time of year, and daytime highs are typically about 4°C.

Even though there is a slight increase in tourists around Christmas, if you book early, you can still get affordable lodging.

Iceland, sometimes known as the “Land of Fire and Ice,” is a place of extremes and contrasts. No matter what time of year you decide to travel here—whether it’s the height of summer or the dead of winter—each encounter will give you a different perspective on this intriguing island .

The best time to visit Iceland will largely rely on the experiences you hope to have there. It all boils down to finding a balance between seasonal pricing, visitor volume, and weather conditions.

You will enjoy long, sunny days if you visit in the summer, but it’s imperative to make reservations well in advance. Hold out for a last-minute offer if you want to venture off the beaten path and explore outside of the busy season.

Whatever the case, Iceland offers a wealth of experiences. When will you be finished? Do it all over again in a different season for a completely different viewpoint.

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Weather & seasons

It won’t be news to you that Iceland isn’t a warm place (the clue is in the name!). However, its location on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and the Warm Gulf Stream ensures that it’s generally a little warmer than most people assume, and this unique island nation welcomes visitors all year round .

For the most part, average monthly temperatures stay on the right side of freezing , even in winter (just about…). In summer months, average temperatures hover around 10°C and individual days can sometimes top 20°C. The other big variable is daylight, which can be as little as 4 hours in winter , but as much as 21 hours in summer .

All of this means that your holiday experience will be very different depending on the time of year you choose to travel. Read on to find out what to expect during each season, including when you can see the famous Northern Lights .

Summer in Iceland (June, July, August)

• Average temperatures: 9-11°C
• Average daylight: 15-21 hours
• Northern Lights: Very unlikely

The summer months bring plenty of clear, sunny days, and pretty much all options are on the table in terms of locations and activities. Hikes, horse rides , whale watching… whatever your Iceland bucket list contains, you can probably tick it off during the summer.

Things can get quite busy at popular tourist sites, so this can be a good time to explore some of Iceland’s more remote regions, such as the Westman Islands or the East Fjords .

Some famous highland routes like the Sprengisandur are only open in July and August as these roads are impassable at other times of the year.

Autumn in Iceland (September, October, November)

• Average temperatures: 2-7°C
• Average daylight: 5-14 hours
• Northern Lights: Yes (sometimes)

The summer crowds begin to disperse, temperatures begin to drop and the nights begin to get longer throughout Autumn. This can be a wonderful time to plan your Iceland holiday, with the weather still pleasant through September and the Northern Lights starting to appear.

Although some of the remote highland roads will close, most of Iceland is still accessible via the ring road. This is a good time for a road trip to some of the lesser-known coastal destinations, such as Snaefellsnes .

Things will also be a little quieter at some of the main attractions, such as the Strokkur geyser and Gullfoss waterfall , so it’s a good time to tick off some of Iceland’s iconic highlights.

Winter in Iceland (December, January, February)

• Average temperatures: -1-0°C
• Northern Lights: Yes (frequently)

Iceland’s coldest season brings its own unique charm – you didn’t come for a beach break anyway! Reykjavik can be a wonderful place to spend some of your Christmas break or see in the new year, while glaciers such as Vatnajökull are at their most spectacular with ice caves and gorges.

The big draw is of course the Northern Lights . Nothing is guaranteed, but you’d be quite unlucky not to see one of nature’s greatest shows during a winter holiday in Iceland.

Most travellers do not go further than the southwest during this time of year, but with a 4×4 you can go around the entire island if you wish. The interior of the island won’t be accessible,and we’d recommend adding extra nights to your itinerary in case weather conditions slow you down.

Spring in Iceland (March, April, May)

• Average temperatures: 1-6°C
• Average daylight: 10-18 hours

Spring is one of our favourite times to visit Iceland, with temperatures rising and landscapes slowly turning from white to green. Northern Lights viewings are also still possible, particularly in the early part of the season.

This is an ideal time of year for wildlife enthusiasts too. While whale watching and bird spotting are possible for much of the year, this is perhaps the best time to see Iceland’s animals. You’ll also have a good chance of seeing orcas around the coast.

This shoulder season is also great to see famous sites like the Blue Lagoon and the waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss before the big tourist crowds return in summer.

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When's the Best Time of Year to Visit Iceland?

K nown as the land of fire and ice, Iceland beckons to adventure-seekers year-round. The best time of year to visit Iceland depends on your traveling style and the type of adventures you enjoy. For those in search of the northern lights, schedule your travel between September through April to maximize your chances of spotting this bucket list experience.

Although the coldest time of the year, winter months are ideal for exploring ice caves, warming your hands by bonfires, cultural and music festivals in Reykjavik and celebrating the magic of Christmas and New Year’s Eve.  

As spring arrives, migratory birds return including the always adorable puffins. Spring is also the perfect time for whale-watching tours. Of course, the summer months bring the midnight sun, summer solstice and sightseeing tourists from around the world. And the brief but beautiful autumn season yields a blanket of color and fewer tourists traveling the Golden Circle . Truthfully, the best time to travel to one of Europe’s most unusual destinations is really anytime!

Year-Round Iceland Experiences

As with many destinations, Iceland features several year-round experiences. Awe-inspiring waterfalls captivate tourists any time of year. Sure they may be partially frozen in winter months, but that’s just another type of beautiful! Hot springs and geothermal pools bubble year-round from the Blue Lagoon  to remote hot springs found throughout the Icelandic landscape.

Outdoor activities can be enjoyed in any season. The famed Icelandic horses are available year-round for horse riding adventures. And hikers also have plenty of year-round options. No matter when you visit Iceland, you can count on the Iceland weather to deliver a variety of experiences from sunny days to whipping winds to rain and back to sunny days. It’s unpredictable and packing layers is the key to managing whatever comes your way.

Road trips provide another year-round adventure option. Even in winter weather, driving the Golden Circle is possible. The Ring Road through the south coast of Iceland is also an option. But for those hoping to road trip through the entire country on the Ring Road, winter months can present some challenges due to potential road closures on mountain roads in Iceland’s more arctic regions. So if traveling the full distance of the Ring Road is on your bucket list, save that for the shoulder season or an Icelandic summer.

Iceland’s Peak Season

There’s no question that the months of June through August are Iceland’s peak season. During this popular time, you’ll be bumper-to-bumper with other tourists on road trips along the Golden Circle and other popular destinations. Of course, the summer months typically bring more sunny days. And, the midnight sun arrives for the summer solstice in June.

The advantages of traveling to Iceland during the peak tourist season include more hours of daylight which means more time for hikers to hit the trails along with more time for horse riding. In Iceland’s westfjords, you can enjoy all the benefits of traveling to Iceland in the summer months with fewer tourists as most focus their travel time on the Golden Circle and the south coast.

Also, as mentioned previously, summer months are best for a full road trip along the Ring Road as mountain roads are open and ready for exploration.

Visiting Iceland in the Winter Months

Despite its arctic reputation, Iceland’s winters are relatively mild. Temperatures average around 32 degrees. Of course, weather conditions in Iceland change continuously and the same is true for winter months. Winds can be strong and winter storms with snow and ice are possible. Hours of daylight shrink in the winter months to as low as four hours per day. But once winter solstice comes, daylight extends by a few minutes each day.

One big advantage of visiting in the winter months is the possibility of seeing the aurora borealis. Although the northern lights  can be seen from September through April, the darker days of winter provide more opportunities for you to experience this natural phenomenon.

The winter months also bring cultural events – especially in Reykjavik. Here you’ll have the opportunity to participate in the Reykjavik International Games and the Dark Music Days Music Festival. Also, during the old Norse month of Þorri, which runs from mid-January to mid-February, Icelanders toast to the old gods with a mid-winter feast known as Þorrablót.

If an ice cave tour falls on your list of adventure priorities, the winter months might be the best time to visit Iceland. However, as long as the ice caves haven’t melted, you can still squeeze this in through April.

Frozen waterfalls, magical Christmas villages and New Year’s Eve bonfires add to the lure of a winter visit to Iceland.

Shoulder Season in Iceland

There’s something to be said for visiting Iceland in shoulder season. Fewer tourists, lower costs and those year-round adventures noted previously all add to the appeal of an off-season trip. And, as luck would have it, Iceland has two shoulder seasons – spring and autumn.

As winter fades away, those choosing to visit Iceland in April are treated to the last days of the northern lights season. From April to May, migratory birds make their way to Iceland for nesting season. If seeing puffins ranks high on your list, this may be the best time to visit Iceland. Spring also kicks off whale-watching season as humpback, minke, orcas and even blue whales migrate north for the summer months. Book a whale-watching tour  and take in this wildlife wonder.

A visit to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula during the off-season means outdoor activities with fewer tourists. Glacier hiking is also possible in the shoulder season.

For that second shoulder season from September through October, the fall colors blanket the mossy landscape. Hikers can add berry picking to their experiences and the northern lights begin to dance across the skies again!

There’s so much wonder to Iceland with its fire and ice landscape and stunning natural beauty that no matter when you choose to visit Iceland, it’s a trip you’ll never forget. Of course, you can always return to check out another season. The Icelandic treasures will be waiting for you!

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Fjords, Pharaohs or Koalas? Time to Plan for Your Next Eclipse.

If you can’t get enough of totality, or missed out this time, you’ll have three more chances in the next four years in destinations like Iceland, Spain, Egypt and Australia.

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By Danielle Dowling

Are you still a little giddy from the magical moments of totality during Monday’s solar eclipse? Or did clouds swoop in to block your view? Maybe you just couldn’t make it to the path of totality this time. No matter what, the question now is “ Where and when will it happen again?”

“People who have never seen it before, the first words out of their mouth after the totality ends is ‘I’ve got to see another one, this is incredible, this is unbelievable.’ That is when you become addicted to these things and end up traveling no matter where the next one is,” said Joseph Rao, an eclipse chaser and guest lecturer at the Hayden Planetarium.

So, if like Mr. Rao, you’ve developed a raging case of umbraphilia — the love of eclipses — you’ll have three chances over the next four years to see the moon blot out the sun. The first, on Aug. 12, 2026, will start above Greenland, then strafe the west coast of Iceland and move along the Atlantic Ocean and over Spain. Almost a year later, on Aug. 2, 2027, another will skirt the Mediterranean coast of North Africa then cross Egypt and part of the Arabian Peninsula. The third, on July 22, 2028, will cut across Australia and the southern tip of New Zealand.

Future Eclipses

Eclipse chasers will have several more chances this decade to view a total solar eclipse .

Last week, as Victoria Sahami , the owner of Sirius Travel , was preparing to guide a group of tourists in Mazatlán, Mexico, for Monday’s big event, she was also planning for these other upcoming eclipses. Ms. Sahami joined the ranks of the eclipse-obsessed when she witnessed one in Venezuela in the 1990s. “Like many people, I was hooked. There was no going back,” she said.

Total solar eclipses happen fairly regularly — about every one to two years — in locations scattered around the world. “That’s the great thing about them: You wind up in places that you don’t normally go,” Ms. Sahami said.

A major spoiler is weather, which will be a big variable in the 2026 eclipse — one Greenland, Iceland and Spain will see.

“Iceland normally has a lot of cloud during that time of year,” said Paul Maley , who runs Ring of Fire Expeditions . “The data shows Spain to have the higher good-weather prospects of all three. However, the sun is low in the sky and the eclipse ends as the sun hits the horizon at sunset.”

Because of Iceland’s mercurial meteorology, Ring of Fire Expeditions is going all in on Spain, with a 10-day excursion on the mainland. Sirius Travel is offering not only a five-day trip to Majorca but also an eight-day tour around Iceland. It will be based in Reykjavik, and the itinerary will remain flexible on the day of the eclipse so the tour can easily pivot toward the location with the least cloud cover. Ms. Sahami recommends the trip for those who already have a few eclipses under their belt and would be happy just to take in the sights of Iceland if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

The 2027 eclipse, on the other hand, promises to be truly stellar: Luxor, Egypt — the site of numerous ancient temples as well as the Valleys of the Kings and Queens — sits right in the middle of the path of totality and will be bathed in darkness for a full 6 minutes 23 seconds. Weather-wise, it is what Ms. Sahami called “a slam dunk.” “You know you’re going to see it. You know that you’re not going to get any clouds,” she said.

But for all its potential, those considering Egypt should be aware that the State Department has a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” warning for the country because of the risk of terrorism.

The 2028 eclipse will darken the skies over Sydney, Australia, for 3 minutes 49 seconds. It will be the first time the city has experienced a total solar eclipse since 1857. Ms. Sahami has her eyes on a trip based out of there, while Mr. Maley has chartered a cruise ship off the northwest coast of Australia. It will be winter there, he said, but that isn’t likely to mean bad eclipse-viewing weather.

If you want to see any (or all) of these eclipses, you should get started on planning and booking now, particularly if you want to sign up for a trip organized by a tour company. One of Sirius Travel’s excursions to Luxor is already full.

Scrutinize refund policies and look into insuring your trip. Several companies will fully refund your deposit if you cancel a year in advance. A lot can happen, Ms. Sahami said, “but if you think you’re going to go, why not?”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Want to see the next total solar eclipse in 2026? An expert recommends booking travel now.

• 2026 will be Europe's first total solar eclipse in 27 years.
• Travelers worldwide will likely head to Spain, Iceland, and Greenland for the event.
• A hotel expert encouraged travelers to start planning and booking their trips now.

It'll be two decades before the next total solar eclipse hits the US .

Another option: hop on a plane to Europe and turn the 2026 total solar eclipse into a viewing vacation.

Eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler at GreatAmericanEclipse.com told Space.com that up to 3.7 million people likely traveled for the solar eclipse on Monday.

HotelPlanner's chief communication officer, Philip Ballard, told Business Insider that the eclipse was a major revenue generator for many cities. For places like Austin, Texas, and Rochester, New York, it could have created $1 billion in revenue, Vox reported.

"I would say the total solar eclipse has become a global phenomenon," Ballard said.

Ballard added that the next solar eclipse , which will pass through Iceland, Greenland, and Spain on August 12, 2026, could result in similar tourism and revenue influxes.

And if travelers are considering a trip to Europe for the solar eclipse, Ballard recommends planning your trip now.

Determine your eclipse viewing destination

According to Space.com , 2026 will be Europe's first total solar eclipse in 27 years. Its path will go through Greenland, parts of western Iceland, and northern Spain.

Choosing where to watch the eclipse will be a tough and important decision for travelers.

Iceland and Greenland have some positives. These regions will experience longer totality times, so viewers can watch the eclipse longer. Plus, the sun will be higher in the sky, so finding a spot to watch the eclipse will be less challenging, Space.com reported.

The downside is that these regions are more likely to be cloudy, according to the outlet.

Related stories

While parts of Spain are likely to offer clearer skies, the eclipse's timing will be shorter and closer to the horizon, which means travelers will need to plan and track down a viewing location with unobstructed views of the western horizon, Space.com reported.

Regardless of the destination, according to the outlet, one bonus is that the strongest meteor shower in the Northern Hemisphere will happen the following night, so travelers can pack two events into one trip.

Book flights and hotels far in advance

Ballard encouraged people to book their hotels in their destination of choice as far in advance as possible.

"You should start looking now and booking hotels now because those cities in the path are already going to be at peak season," Ballard said.

Ballard said it's similar to when a Super Bowl city is determined or a Taylor Swift tour date is announced — you immediately see spikes in bookings. He predicts hotel occupancy rates will hit near-record highs, and room prices may double around the solar eclipse date.

Ballard's general rule of thumb is to book international travel at least three months in advance, but since this is such an anticipated event, booking earlier is smart. His advice is to start discussing plans with friends and family. If you decide on a destination, book a refundable room to keep your options open if plans change.

Regarding purchasing a plane ticket, a study from Expedia states that international travel's sweet spot is at least six months in advance.

According to Expedia, travelers who book six months in advance save an average of 10% more than travelers booking within two months or less.

Skip the hassle of planning altogether and book a solar eclipse tour

Another option is to let a tour operator do the work for you. A handful of tour companies have seen the increased interest in the solar eclipse and launched tours designed around the event.

These tours will have predetermined locations to view the eclipse, hotel blocks reserved, and itineraries highlighting both the region and the eclipse.

However, these can sell out quickly. For example, Space and Telescope created an 11-day tour of Spain around viewing the 2026 solar eclipse. The tour has already sold out as of Wednesday, and the waitlist is full.

Other operators, such as Wilderness Travel and Eclipse Traveler, have similar itineraries for the total eclipse in 2026.

Watch: A small Australian town was treated to a rare hybrid solar eclipse

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Where to See the Solar Eclipse: The 15 Best Cities to Watch the Event

By Katherine McLaughlin

If you’re a fan of astronomy or otherwise interested in unique natural phenomenons, you may be wondering where to see the solar eclipse today—or if the big event will be visible from your home. Today, a number of cities throughout Mexico , the United States, and Canada will experience brief moments of dawn- or dusk-like darkness right in the middle of the day. Officially described as a total solar eclipse, the occurrence happens when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth and blocks the entirety of sun’s face.

Because it’s not something that happens everyday, the marvel has been prompting locals and travelers alike to scope out the best viewing locations, but fear not if you don’t have your spot figured out yet. Todays’s eclipse will travel along a wide, densely populated path. NASA estimated that 31.6 million people live in an area that will see the total solar eclipse and another 150 million are within 200 miles of it. What’s more, there won’t be another total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States until 2044, according to NASA , making it all the more important to catch this one.

For most of the United States, the eclipse won’t happen until the afternoon, meaning there’s still time to figure out how you’ll watch it. Here, AD covers everything you need to know about the upcoming event, including the 13 best cities to see the eclipse.

What is a total solar eclipse?

There are a number of different types of eclipses, which offer different views of either the sun or moon. As NASA explains it, “A solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, casting a shadow on Earth that either fully or partially blocks the sun’s light in some areas.” A total solar eclipse means the moon will completely block the sun’s face, and if you’re in the path of the eclipse, you’ll be able to see the sun’s corona and outer atmosphere, weather permitting. Other types of eclipses, like a partial solar eclipse, occur when the moon covers only some of the sun, resulting in a crescent shape.

A total solar eclipse is seen on a partly cloudy day.

How do you safely watch the total solar eclipse?

Not only are solar eclipses special because of their relative rarity, they’re unique in how they’re watched. For the few minutes when the moon is fully blocking the sun—know as totality—viewers can look directly at the sun without any eye protection. Any other time, including the hours before and after totality when you’ll see a partial eclipse, it’s important to wear protective eye gear, such as solar eclipse glasses. “As soon as you see even a little bit of the bright sun reappear after totality, immediately put your eclipse glasses back on or use a handheld solar viewer to look at the sun,” NASA explains.

How often do solar eclipses happen?

Solar eclipses, of one kind or another, happen between two and five times a year. Total eclipses happen about once every 18 months. However, this doesn’t mean one will be visible from your home this often. According to the Natural History Museum, London , a total solar eclipse is viewable from any one place about once every 400 years. For example, the last total solar eclipse visible from the United States happened in 2017 and followed a track from Oregon towards South Carolina. This year, the solar eclipse’s path will start in Texas and move northeast towards Maine. The next total solar eclipse will happen in 2026 and will be visible from the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, and northern Spain.

How long will the 2024 solar eclipse last?

Total solar eclipses can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes. The difference in totality length has to do with how far apart the sun, moon, and Earth are at any given time, since the latter two bodies both orbit in elliptical paths.

When the Earth is furthest from the sun—making the star appear smaller—and the moon is closest to the Earth—which makes the moon look big—totality can last for over seven minutes. As Astronomy Mag reports, these circumstances will line up in about 160 years, when a solar eclipse on July 16, 2186, will see almost seven-and-a-half minutes of totality. On the other extreme, if the Earth is at its closest point to the sun and the moon is at its furthest point from Earth, humans won’t see a total solar eclipse, even if all of the celestial bodies are in line. Since totality is all about the perspective of the viewer, this is also why each city will experience the 2024 eclipse differently.

This year, totality will last for a little over four minutes in some areas, which is significantly more than the two minutes that people experienced during the 2017 eclipse. As NASA notes, “During the 2017 total solar eclipse, the moon was a little bit farther away from Earth than it will be during the upcoming total solar eclipse, causing the path of that eclipse to be a little skinnier.” Seven years ago, the path of totality—which shows which parts of the world will be able to see the total solar eclipse—was only about 62 to 71 miles wide. This year, that path ranges from 108 to 122 miles wide. “Meaning at any given moment this eclipse covers more ground,” NASA explains.

How to read maps showing the 2024 solar eclipse

As noted, this year’s path of totality is about 110 miles wide. Cities closer to the center of the path will sustain total darkness longer than those on the edges. In addition to longer totality than in 2017, this year’s path of totality covers more densely populated areas than the previous one. This means more people should be able to experience the total solar eclipse.

The 2024 solar eclipse map from NASA shows where totality will occur on April 8.

Any part of the country that is not within the path may see a partial eclipse, and the closer a location is to the strip, the smaller the crescent of visible sun will be. In these locations, it won’t be safe to look directly at the eclipse without protective glasses or a viewing device. NASA has put together an interactive map , which allows viewers to see the eclipse timing in their city.

Where to see the solar eclipse

According to NASA , cities in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will experience the total solar eclipse. Parts of Mexico and Canada will also fall within the eclipse’s path. Read on for the best places to see the 2024 total solar eclipse.

Mazatlán, Mexico

By Katie Schultz

By Sydney Wingfield

By Gabriela Ulloa

Mexico’s pacific coast will be the first place in continental North America to experience the eclipse. Mazatlán, a popular resort city, is an ideal location to see the occurrence, as it is directly in the eclipse’s path. Totality will begin around 11:07 a.m. local time and last for 4 minutes and 17 seconds. Because it’s such an optimal place to see the 2024 solar eclipse, NASA is hosting a viewing event at Vidanta Mazatlán . Here, visitors will be able to watch screens showing telescope views of the eclipse in addition to other hands-on activities, such as projects for kids and touchable moon rocks.

Torreón, Mexico

Located more centrally in the country, the solar eclipse will also be visible from Torreón. Totality will start just before 12:19 p.m. local time and last for 4 minutes and 12 seconds. A partial eclipse will also be visible before and after totality, starting at 11:44 a.m. and ending at 1:54 p.m.

Texas Hill Country

Part of Texas Hill Country, Kerrville is a prime location to watch the 2024 eclipse. Near the Mexican border, it will be among the first US cities to experience totality, which will begin at 1:32 p.m. and last for almost four and a half minutes. Austin and Dallas are also in the path of totality, but will only experience the darkness for about two minutes and a little under four minutes, respectively. NASA is also hosting an event here, which will take place in Louise Hays Park and include live music, speakers, and programming for kids.

Dallas, Texas

The Dallas-Fort Worth area is among the most densely populated places from which the eclipse will be visible. Totality will last for 3 minutes and 51 seconds and begin at 1:40 p.m. The city has put together a list of ideal places within the city to watch the event, including the Dallas Zoo, Dallas Museum of Art, and White Rock Lake Park.

Russellville, Arkansas

Russellville, about 85 miles east of Little Rock, will experience 4 minutes and 12 seconds of totality, starting at 1:50 p.m. The city has planned a number of exciting programming for the historic event, including a solar eclipse festival and a concert with Grammy-winner Rhonda Vincent.

Cape Girardeau, Missouri

Located along the Mississippi River, Cape Girardeau is one of the best places in Missouri to watch the 2024 solar eclipse. According to NASA’s map, totality will last for a little over four minutes, beginning at 1:58 p.m. Head to Old Town Cape, where the city is hosting a block party on the day.

Carbondale, Illinois

Informally known as Little Egypt—possibly because the area delivered grains to northern parts of the state during the 1800s famine or because the southern tip of Illinois is similar to the Nile delta region in Egypt—Carbondale will experience 4 minutes and 10 seconds of totality, beginning at 1:59 p.m. The city also experienced totality during the 2017 eclipse, though it will see a longer dark period this time around. Home of Southern Illinois University, the school is hosting public viewing at its football stadium.

Bloomington, Indiana

Much of central and southern Indiana will experience totality during the 2024 solar eclipse, but Bloomington, largely a college town and home to Indiana University, will be among the best places in the Hoosier state to watch the event, since totality will last for about four minutes. The town is home to Indiana University, which is among our list of the most beautiful college campuses in America. Spend the afternoon strolling through the campus’s Gothic- and Romanesque-inspired buildings, and then catch the eclipse at 3 p.m.

Indianapolis, Indiana

They don’t call Indianapolis the crossroads of America for no reason: The state capital is at the intersection of four major US highways, Interstate 65, Interstate 69, Interstate 70, and Interstate 74. This means it’s a relatively accessible location for those in surrounding areas and among the best places to travel to for the solar eclipse. Here, totality will last for about 3 minutes and 47 seconds and start at 3:06 p.m. NASA is hosting an event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and will have experts on-hand to answer all questions about the eclipse. The city has also suggested White River State Park as an ideal solar eclipse viewing location, where a number of food trucks, local vendors, and other activations will be set up.

Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland won’t be in a solar eclipse’s path of totality again until 2444 , making it a once in a lifetime experience for any locals hoping to watch the eclipse from their hometown. The city will experience maximum darkness at 3:15 p.m., which will last for just under 4 minutes. To commemorate the moment, the Great Lake Science Center is hosting a Total Eclipse Fest on April 6 through April 8. The free outdoor event will include speakers, concerts, performances, and hands-on science activities.

Erie, Pennsylvania

Only a small portion of northern Pennsylvania will be within the path of totality. Erie, located along the shores of the lake of the same name, will be one of the best places in the state to see the eclipse. Totality will last for 3 minutes and 42 seconds, starting at 3:16 p.m. The local government has put together a map of public parks and other viewing locations to watch the spectacle.

Buffalo, New York

Buffalo, New York, will see 3 minutes and 46 seconds of total darkness, beginning at 3:18 p.m. There are a number of public “ watch parties ” happening in the city, which the government has compiled for visitors and locals. Midcentury-modern architecture fans may want to use the day to visit Graycliff, a Frank Lloyd Wright–designed estate, which is hosting a special open house on April 8, allowing guests to watch the eclipse from the property.

Niagara Region, Ontario

Small parts of Canada will also witness total darkness during the 2024 eclipse. The Niagara region is the best place to see totality, which will start at 3:19 p.m. and last for 3 minutes and 15 seconds. Montreal will also experience totality, but only for a little over one minute.

Burlington, Vermont

Much of New England will miss out on totality during the 2024 eclipse, as the path will only cover parts of northern Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Burlington is among the best places for those in the region to travel to, as it will experience 3 minutes and 19 seconds of darkness, starting at 3:26 p.m.

Houlton, Maine

Maine is the northern most place in the United States to see the total eclipse in 2024, also making it the last place in the country to experience totality. Houlton will be among the best places in the state to watch the sight, and darkness will begin at 3:32 p.m. and last for 3 minutes and 20 seconds.

How will weather impact visibility?

Geographically, the cities listed above represent the best places to see the 2024 solar. However, weather will play a major role in just how well those on the ground will be able to see the phenomenon. It goes without saying that cloudy conditions or rain will impact visibility and make it harder to see the eclipse. Currently, meteorologist are forecasting worse conditions in the south-central United States, which could affect those in Texas and Arkansas. Those in the Midwest and northeast have better odds, where conditions are presently forecasted to be sunny and with clear skies.

What will I see during the solar eclipse if my city isn’t along the path of totality?

Though not every city will see a total solar eclipse, most of the United States will see at least a partial eclipse. For example, as NASA’s map shows, Seattle, which is one of the furthest metropolises from the eclipse’s path will still see about 20% of the sun covered by the moon. Here, peak coverage will happen around 11:29 a.m. On the south side of the country, Miami, which is also quite far from the eclipse’s path, will see 46.2% of the sun covered around 3:01 p.m.

On the other hand, cities which are not along the path of totality but are very close will see a greater percentage of the sun covered. St. Louis, for example, which is just outside the path of totality, will see the moon covering 99.1% of the sun during peak totality, which will happen at 2 p.m. For detailed information about your city, see NASA’s interactive eclipse map .

Can I watch the 2024 solar eclipse virtually?

If you won’t be within the path of totality, a number of organizations are live streaming the monumental event (This may also come in handy if a city experiences cloudy weather or rain on eclipse day). To start, NASA is offering live broadcasts in both English and Spanish and live streams from telescopes that will capture the eclipse as it moves across the country. Scientific American will capture the event with jets that have been converted into flying telescopes to chase the eclipse, offering a view that one simply can’t find on the ground.

ABC News and National Geographic are also teaming up to produce “Eclipse Across America,” a live special hosted by David Muir and Linsey Davis. Coverage starts at 2:00 p.m. ET on ABC, ABC News Live, National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Disney+, Hulu and Network Social Media Platforms and will broadcast from 10 cities along the path of totality, including Mazatlán, Mexico; Russelville, Arkansas; and Houlton, Maine.

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Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.

'Expensive in every way': What travelers should expect this summer

Summer travel in 2024 will be "expensive in every way," said Katharine Nohr. And she should know.

She's planning a two-week adventure to Europe in June, which starts with a marathon flight from Honolulu to Zurich, where she'll speak at a conference. Then, she's hopscotching across Europe – to Vienna, then on to the Olympics. Nohr made plans to be in Nantes, France, to watch a soccer game, in Lille for basketball, and in Paris for gymnastics, boxing, and swimming.

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All told, it'll set her back five figures despite her best efforts, which include flying economy class and staying in the lowest-priced hotels. 

"The trip is pricey, even with my efforts to economize," said Nohr, an attorney from Honolulu. "But it's a once-in-my-life adventure." 

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Summer travelers are pursuing exciting, expensive vacations

Nohr is part of a wave of travelers who are making big plans for this summer. The itineraries are exciting – and expensive. 

Pretty much every barometer of travel intent is up for the summer travel season. Inflation and unemployment are low, and consumer sentiment and curiosity are high, fueling an unprecedented interest in travel during the summer of 2024. 

"Bookings are rising," said Susan Sherren, who runs Couture Trips , a travel agency. "Unfortunately, hotel, tour, and air prices are not falling. So, if you plan on hitting the road this summer, make sure you are willing to splash some cash."

Travel companies say they're overwhelmed with summer reservations.

"The travel economy is booming," said Joe Ialacci, owner of Yacht Hampton Boating Club , a company that rents yachts in Sag Harbor, New York. He's seeing a 40% increase in rentals this summer compared to last year as Americans shift some of their vacation dollars to domestic destinations.

Prices aren't the only thing trending higher. People's expectations for their summer vacation are also higher than at any time since the pandemic, said Sangeeta Sadarangani, CEO of Crossing , a multinational travel agency headquartered in London. 

"They're embracing the unknown," she said.

And one of the great unknowns is travel prices. How much higher will they be?

What will prices be like this summer?

It depends on where you're going. There's good news if you're traveling within the U.S.: flights and hotels are a little less expensive than last summer . But they're rising elsewhere. Here's the breakdown:

• Airfares are mixed. Domestic roundtrip airfares for summer will peak at $315 per ticket, according to the travel platform Hopper . Flights to Europe are cheaper, too. They've fallen 10% from last year to $882. But flights to South America are up 2% and flights to Canada have risen 7%. You'll pay an average of $708 to fly south of the border and $419 to head north.
• U.S. hotel rates are down. Domestically, they're about the same as last year at an average of $206 per night.
• Car rental prices are rising. Average domestic car rental rates are only up 3% this summer to $42 per day on a four-day rental, according to Hopper. 

But you can avoid the high prices with a little strategic planning, experts say.

What to avoid this summer

American travelers are becoming more predictable in their summer vacation choices, said John Lovell, president of Travel Leaders Group . Immediately after the pandemic, they embarked on "revenge" vacations to far-flung locations. Now they're returning to more conventional vacations.

"We continue to see U.S. travelers heading back to the more traditional locations across Europe this year, like London, Rome, Athens and Munich," he said.

There are places that will be exceptionally busy – and exceptionally pricey – this summer.

• Paris during the Olympics. The Olympic Games are taking place in Paris this summer. Rooms are more than double the normal rates . which is typical of the Olympics. Paris is already crowded with tourists during the summer, so you can probably imagine what it will be like with the Olympics. Zut, alors!
• Taylor Swift is touring Europe this summer. Prices will be higher and the crowds will be denser. "If you aren't planning to attend one of her concerts, I recommend planning around those European cities when she's there," said Betsy Ball, co-founder of Euro Travel Coach . (Want to know if your schedules overlap? Here's Taylor Swift's concert schedule .)
• Other big summer events. Even if you steer clear of Taylor and the Olympics, you're still not out of the woods. There's the UEFA Euro 2024 football tournament in Germany in June. There's the Tour de France in July, which begins in Florence and finishes in Nice. France is also hosting the Paralympic Games in August and September, which will take place in Paris, Nice, Marseille and Bordeaux.

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When is the best time to book a 2024 summer vacation?

Since this is going to be a busy one, the sooner you book, the better. Hopper recommends buying your airfare two to three months before your departure for domestic flights, and for international – well, it's probably too late to get that rock-bottom fare. If you're reading this in April, you can still find something for late August or early September, according to its airfare experts.

As always, you can save money by booking a flight for midweek instead of on the weekend – and, of course, by keeping far, far away from the big travel holidays like Memorial Day, the Fourth of July and Labor Day. 

Also, if you're going overseas, remember their holiday calendar is different. For example, half of Europe shuts down during August for summer vacation. It's worth a look-up, otherwise, you could face some real disappointments.

Strategies for traveling better during the summer

One tactic that consistently works is splitting your getaway into two sections. Take that required summer vacation with your family somewhere less expensive during the high season. Then, wait until shoulder season for the big trip. 

That's what Ross Copas, a retired electrician from Tweed, Canada, is doing during the summer of 2024. It's a road trip across the northern U.S. by motorcycle – New York to Washington State, and then back east through Canada. 

Then he's heading to Amsterdam in September for a 23-day European river cruise. He said the late summer getaway will be costly, but he doubts fares will fall anytime soon. "So price be damned," he added.

Actually, that's pretty smart. I took the same cruise he's planning on Viking River Cruises many years ago, and it was worth every penny.

With hotel rates rising in some places this summer, this is the right time to consider alternatives. Monica Fish, a writer from Glen Rock, N.J., is headed to Ireland to catch one of Taylor Swift's performances. She said hotel rooms in Dublin are overpriced if they're even available. But Fish found an affordable vacation rental. 

"We just had to book it farther in advance than we normally would," she said. 

Go ahead, follow the crowds this summer

I think it's fine to follow the crowds this summer. I'll be doing it. I'm planning to rent an apartment for a month in Switzerland with Blueground, a long-term apartment rental company. Then I'm crashing on a friend's sofa in Spain, then heading to Sweden to see other friends and visiting my brother in Finland. Yes, travel writers know people everywhere . 

But don't follow the crowds off a cliff. There are places even I won't go. I might take the four-hour train trip from Zurich to Paris in June to check out my favorite patisseries, but I wouldn't go anywhere near the City of Lights during the summer games in July unless I made a reservation a long time ago.

And Taylor Swift? Puh-leeze. I'm more of a jazz guy.

Christopher Elliott  is an author, consumer advocate, and journalist. He founded  Elliott Advocacy , a nonprofit organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes  Elliott Confidential , a travel newsletter, and the  Elliott Report , a news site about customer service. If you need help with a consumer problem, you can  reach him here  or email him at  [email protected] .