Want to know when is the best time to visit Iceland before you book your getaway? And more specifically, which are the best months to go?
You are in the right place!
With its active landscapes, friendly locals and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, Iceland is one of many people’s top bucket-list destinations to visit. But like most places, each season brings a completely different experience.
To make sure you don’t miss out on the most amazing trip to Iceland, let’s take a look at the best times to book a getaway here. By the end of this guide, I’m sure you will have found the perfect time of year to visit Iceland for you.
Table of Contents
Quick Iceland Travel Guide
Where to stay: Most people visiting Iceland stay in Reykjavik, as it is the main hub and largest town on the iceland. It is also where most tours depart from. Classic hotels include the Hilton Reykjavik and the Hotel Reykjavik Saga, but for a more budget-friendly option you’ll find that people are renting out their homes (this one has a car included!) and apartments.
Top activities and tours in Iceland:
- Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon
- Glaciers & Waterfalls Tour
- Whale Watching
- Reykjavik Local Food Tour
- Northern Lights Photography Tour
Packing for Iceland: The time of year you visit will affect your packing list. If you are visiting in winter, I have covered everything you need in this guide. In the warmer months, you still need to keep in mind that the weather can change quickly, and it can get chilly in the evenings. Layers is always key, and a light puffer jacket such as this one should be with you year-round when visiting the Nordics.
Getting from the airport: The airport in Reykjavik (located in the smaller town of Keflavik, and named thereafter, KEF) is about 50 km/31 miles from Reykjavik. You can easily book a bus transfer in advance, taking you to the Reykjavik city center (where most hotels are within walking distance). For an even more hassle-free arrival, book a private transfer.
When is the best time to visit Iceland?
You can visit Iceland any time of year and have an amazing time. No matter the seasons, there are plenty of things to do in Iceland to keep you busy. But when you visit does depends on what you want to do with your time here.
Some experiences can only be done during certain months of the year in Iceland. If you are desperate to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, go on a whale watching trip or have the ultimate winter escape, you are limited to only a few weeks of the year.
To help you out, here are some of the most popular times to visit Iceland, depending on you preferred activity:
- For Winter Activities: November
- For The Northern Lights: January
- For Driving: May
- For Sight-Seeing: September
When Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland: Season by Season
Below is a detailed breakdown covering when is the best time to visit Iceland based on season. Like with the rest of Scandinavia, some seasons are short whilst others (here’s looking at you, winter) are longer than elsewhere.
A little further down, I have broken down the best time to visit Iceland for specific activities and interests, such as northern lights or whale watching (or just to avoid crowds).
Iceland’s Autumn: September to October
Autumn in Iceland, from September to October, offers a tranquil and picturesque experience with mild weather, breathtaking landscapes, and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season. It’s an ideal time for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a more intimate connection with this enchanting island.
Similar to how Autumn is my favourite time of year to visit Norway, it is a great season in Iceland too!
Iceland’s Weather in Fall:
- Temperatures: The temperatures during the autumn months hover around 5-10°C (41-50°F), providing a comfortable environment for outdoor adventures.
- Precipitation: Rainfall is relatively moderate, with occasional bursts of showers. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and have waterproof gear handy.
The best activities to do during this season are the Golden Circle Tour, hiking, photography and the Iceland Airwaves music festival.
If you have a car, don’t miss this self-drive Golden Circle Tour you can download to your smartphone ($40). If you are without a car, this guided tour takes you around the Golden Circle in a day ($129)!
Iceland’s Winter: November to March
Iceland transforms into a winter wonderland from November to March. While the weather can be challenging, there is nothing like experiencing an Icelandic winter experience!
Weather in Winter:
- Temperatures: Winter temperatures typically range from -1°C to 3°C (30°F to 37°F) along the coast, but it can be colder inland and in the highlands.
- Daylight Hours: The days are short, with only a few hours of daylight.
The best activities to do in winter are to see the northern lights, ice caving and glacier hikes.
Make sure to pack well if you are visiting in winter. My packing guide for Norway in winter will also be of great help if you are visiting Iceland during the cold months.
If you are visiting for the northern lights, my #1 tip is to book a tour with a northern lights guarantee, and book it for one of your first nights in Iceland. Basically, this means that if you don’t see any northern lights (for example if the sky is overcast or there isn’t any northern lights activity), you are automatically booked in for a new tour later on your trip.
Read next: how to take photos of the northern lights with an iPhone
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This is the highest-rated northern lights tour from Reykjavik, with photos included and a northern lights guarantee (make sure to book in advance)!
Iceland’s Spring: April to May
This season offers a delightful blend of milder weather, budding landscapes, and brighter days, making it an excellent time to explore this Nordic gem. Reykjavik starts to come alive, and those going on a road trip can explore some of the island’s Viking symbols and key Viking locations.
Weather in Spring:
- Temperature: Spring temperatures in Iceland range from 3°C to 10°C (37°F to 50°F), providing a welcome thaw from winter’s chill.
- Daylight Hours: As spring goes on, daylight hours increase significantly, perfect for long days of exploring.
The best activities to do in Iceland’s spring period are volcano tours, snorkelling, horse riding and visiting the outdoor hot springs such as the famous Blue Lagoon.
Iceland’s Summer: June to August
Iceland’s summer, from June to August, is a magical time to visit. The country is under the Midnight Sun during these months, one of the things the Nordic countries are famous for.
So visitors are offered extended daylight hours and milder weather, making it the perfect season for exploring breathtaking landscapes and enjoying endless outdoor activities.
If you are visiting Iceland in the early summer, you’ll love seeing how dramatic the waterfalls are. Some of the best waterfalls in Iceland are at their most spectacular at this time.
Weather in Summer:
- Temperature: Summer temperatures in Iceland generally range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), but can occasionally climb higher.
- Daylight Hours: One of the highlights of summer is the Midnight Sun, with almost 24-hour daylight, especially in June.
The best things to do during Iceland’s summer are whale watching, kayaking, puffin watching and local food tours.
The Best Months To Visit Iceland To See The Northern Lights
The Northern Lights phenomena are probably why a lot of people book a winter trip to Iceland. However, this rare experience can be hard to track down, especially if you do not visit during the right months.
In this post I have broken down all the criteria you need to have checked off in order to see the northern lights.
To get a better chance of seeing the Northern Lights during your trip, book between January and March. During these months you will still have shorter daylight hours, leaving you more opportunities to find them. And if you want to make sure you see them during your trip, consider booking a Private Northern Lights tour!
The extended darkness, stable weather, increased solar activity, fewer crowds, and the unique winter ambience combine to make it the absolute best time to chase the Northern Lights in this captivating Arctic wonderland.
Below are some of the highest rated Northern Lights tours in Iceland (both private and in groups).
The Best Time To Visit Iceland For Whale Watching
Between April and September is the absolute prime time to see whales in Iceland, all though you can see them year-round.
Humpback whales, orcas, and even the elusive blue whales make their appearances in the water around this time of year.
Also, you have to keep in mind that most whale-watching tours only operate during the summer season (except for the one linked below). In the winter, the tours will give you thermal jackets and jumpsuits to bundle up in, but I always recommend wearing wool as your inner layer regardless.
Booking a whale watching between April and September means you have plenty of tour options to choose from, as there are more tours operating then.
With favourable weather, an abundance of whale species, a variety of tour options, and the bonus of stunning birdlife and the midnight sun, these months are ideal for any whale watching adventure.
The Best time to visit Blue Lagoon In Iceland
This geothermal wonderland is at its absolute best in the summer months (from June to early September). Even though it’s magical to visit any time of year, the Blue Lagoon is at its peak during the summertime.
The midnight sun means you can capture the Blue Lagoon’s beauty at all hours, and is a great chance to take some amazing photos of your visit. However, as this is a pretty popular time to visit, it’s recommended to book your visit during the morning or evening. This experience is so much better when it’s not crowded!
The summer months are also an amazing time to book some incredible Icelandic tours because you get to see so much more thanks to the good weather and extended daylight hours. Just remember to book in advance as they can sell out quickly.
What Is The Best Month To Go To Iceland To Avoid Crowds?
If you’re seeking to experience the beauty of Iceland without the hustle and bustle of crowds, consider planning your visit during the shoulder seasons of April-May or September-October. During these months, the tourist numbers are notably lower compared to the summer peak season.
In April and May, Iceland has milder weather and the winter conditions are melting away. It’s an excellent time to explore the stunning landscapes and enjoy attractions with fewer visitors and at cheaper prices.
September and October bring a different charm, as fall conditions are still around with their vibrant colors. The weather remains pleasant and there is still a lot of daylight hours.
By choosing these shoulder seasons, you can explore its iconic sights at a more relaxed pace, making it the perfect choice for those looking to avoid the crowds while still enjoying all that Iceland has to offer.
When Is The Worst Time To visit Iceland?
While Iceland is undoubtedly a captivating destination year-round, there’s one period that many travelers might want to think twice about: the worst time to book a trip to Iceland, for most, would be during the winter months, specifically from late November to early February.
Some adventurers revel in the winter wonderland that Iceland becomes during this time of year. However, it’s good to know the challenges that come with a winter visit here.
Winter in Iceland can be pretty brutal. The country lives up to its name with fierce winds, biting cold, and unpredictable storms. It’s not uncommon for roads to close, making travel between towns and tourist attractions challenging, if not impossible. The harsh conditions can turn even short drives into arduous journeys. This is why it’s important to get your hire car through a reliable company, pay attention to road conditions and listen to locals’ advice.
Basically, all the things I tell you to do if you are going on a road trip in Norway.
Side note: this Iceland road trip itinerary is not to be missed if you are planning on a self-drive adventure!
Short days are another downside of winter in Iceland. In December, the sun can rise as late as 11:00 AM and set as early as 3:30 PM. This means you’ll have very limited daylight to explore the stunning landscapes, making it difficult to fit in all the sights and activities you might have on your itinerary.
It’s also important to keep in mind that many outdoor activities that make Iceland famous become tricky during winter.
Hiking trails become treacherous, waterfalls may freeze, and some natural wonders are inaccessible due to road closures or extreme weather conditions. Activities like glacier hiking and ice cave tours can be done, but they come with added safety precautions.
Accommodation prices can also be relatively high during the winter season, primarily because of those seeking a cozy escape from the cold. Booking your place to stay in advance is always a good idea when visiting Iceland, especially in Winter.
The Best Months To Visit Iceland FAQs
I’m sure you have a few more questions you need to answer before clicking on that Book Now button. To help you out, here are the most commonly asked questions about the best times to visit Iceland:
When Is The Best Time To Visit Reykjavik?
The best time to visit Reykjavik, Iceland, is during the summer months, from June to August. This period offers the mildest weather, extended daylight hours for exploration, and a vibrant cultural scene. It’s ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the city’s festivals and events.
What are the cheapest months to visit Iceland?
Visiting Iceland during the shoulder seasons of April to May or September to October can be a budget-savvy choice. Accommodation and tour prices are generally lower than during the peak summer months. You’ll still enjoy relatively mild weather, fewer crowds, and the chance to witness Iceland’s natural beauty without the huge costs.
When Is The Peak Season In Iceland?
The peak travel season in Iceland typically spans from June to August. During these summer months, the country experiences milder weather, extended daylight hours, and vibrant green landscapes. This makes it the most popular time for tourists to explore Iceland’s natural wonders!
What Month Is Rainy In Iceland?
Iceland experiences relatively consistent rainfall throughout the year. However, if you’re looking for the wettest months, they tend to be in the late autumn and early winter, with October and November being some of the rainiest months in Iceland. It’s worth noting that Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rain at any time during your visit.
What Is The Stormiest Month In Iceland?
The stormiest month in Iceland is typically January. During this winter month, the country often experiences powerful storms characterized by strong winds, heavy snowfall, and challenging weather conditions.
Is It Better To Go To Iceland In April Or May?
April has slightly lower temperatures but offers the chance to witness lingering winter landscapes. May is milder and greener, with longer daylight hours, making it suitable for outdoor activities. Both months are excellent, so it ultimately depends on whether you prefer a winter wonderland or a more spring-like experience.
The Best Time To Visit Iceland Final Thoughts
Each season in Iceland offers its unique charm and activities. From the endless daylight and outdoor adventures in the summer to the magical Northern Lights in the winter, Iceland has something to offer year-round.
Whether you want to hike, go whale-watching, or soak in geothermal pools, there’s never a wrong time to explore this remarkable country!
Unfortunately, there are some activities you can only do at certain times of the year. So if you want to experience the Northern lights and winter activities, plan your trip for January. For those who want to see nature in full bloom, the summer months are the perfect time to visit.
No matter when you decide to visit Iceland, you will have an amazing time. Just remember if you are visiting in their peak seasons, book your tours, transport and activities in advance.