Ultimate Guide: Best Time to Visit Iceland

What's the Best Time of The Year to Go to Iceland?

The best time to visit Iceland is during the summer months of June to August if you want long days, milder weather, and the most access to attractions. But don't write off the other seasons just yet.

Spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) can be great times to visit too. You'll get a mix of winter and summer experiences, often with lower prices and fewer tourists. Winter (November to March) is perfect if you're after the Northern Lights and winter activities like ice caving.

Let's look at each month in detail:

January

January is the heart of winter in Iceland. It's cold, with average temperatures around 0°C (32°F) in Reykjavik, and can be much colder elsewhere. Days are very short, with only about 4-5 hours of daylight. But this makes it perfect for seeing the Northern Lights! It's also great for winter activities like ice caving and glacier hiking.

In January, Iceland is covered in snow and ice, so roads everywhere—from the cities to the countryside—can be super slippery. Driving can be tricky, and cars get stuck pretty easily. If you're planning to visit, just be ready for some tough driving conditions. On the bright side, the winter scenery is absolutely gorgeous!

The Þorrablót midwinter festival happens this month, giving you a taste of unique Icelandic traditions. While it's quiet with few tourists, be prepared for possible road closures and limited access to some attractions. Pack your warmest clothes and be ready for an adventure in the Icelandic winter wonderland.

Pros: • Best time to see the Northern Lights • Exciting winter activities like ice caving and glacier hiking • Fewer tourists and lower prices • Chance to experience the unique Þorrablót midwinter festival

Cons: • Very short days (about 4-5 hours of daylight) • Cold temperatures and possible snowstorms • Some roads and attractions might be closed due to snow and ice • Limited options for outdoor activities

Is January a good time to visit Iceland?

January can be a great time to visit if you're after a true winter experience and don't mind the cold and dark. It's perfect for Northern Lights chasers and winter sports enthusiasts. Just be ready for challenging weather and limited daylight.

February

February is still very much winter in Iceland, but you'll notice the days getting a bit longer. Temperatures are similar to January, hovering around freezing in Reykjavik. It's another excellent month for Northern Lights viewing and winter sports.

February is full of fun Icelandic traditions. There's Öskudagurinn, which is like our Halloween, where kids dress up and sing for treats. Then we have Bolludagurinn, or Cream Bun Day, when everyone eats these yummy cream-filled pastries—it's totally okay to have as many as you want! After that is Sprengidagurinn, "Bursting Day," where people enjoy big hearty meals until they're stuffed. It's a great time to dive into local customs and enjoy some delicious food.

The Winter Lights Festival in Reykjavik brings some warmth to the cold month with art installations and cultural events. You'll find fewer tourists and lower prices, but be prepared for potential weather-related travel disruptions. It's a great time to experience Iceland's cozy cafe culture and relax in geothermal hot springs after a day in the snow.

Pros: • Still great for Northern Lights viewing • Winter activities in full swing • Slightly longer days than January • Unique events like the Winter Lights Festival in Reykjavik

Cons: • Cold temperatures continue • Possible road closures due to snow • Limited daylight, though improving from January • Some natural attractions may be inaccessible

Is February a good time to visit Iceland?

February is similar to January but with a bit more daylight. It's good for winter activities and Northern Lights, plus you might catch some cool winter festivals. Pack warm clothes and be flexible with your plans due to the weather.

March

March marks the transition from winter to spring in Iceland. Days get noticeably longer, and you might see the first signs of spring, though winter can still hang on. Temperatures start to climb but are still chilly, usually between 0-4°C (32-39°F).

It's your last good chance to see the Northern Lights before the days get too long. Winter activities are still available, but you might also catch the start of the bird-watching season. Weather can be unpredictable, so pack for both winter and early spring conditions.

Pros: • Increasing daylight hours • Still good chances to see Northern Lights • Winter activities are available, but spring is starting to show • Iceland Winter Games usually held this month

Cons: • Unpredictable weather – could be winter-like or spring-like • Some roads still closed, especially in the highlands • Muddy conditions as the snow starts to melt • Whale watching tours limited

Is March a good time to visit Iceland?

March is a month of transition. You can still enjoy winter activities and Northern Lights, but with more daylight. It's a good month if you want a mix of winter and early spring experiences. Just be ready for changeable weather.

April

April is a shoulder season month in Iceland, offering a mix of winter's last gasp and spring's arrival. Temperatures are milder, usually between 2-7°C (36-45°F), and daylight hours increase significantly. You might catch the last Northern Lights of the season early in the month.

This is when many summer tours start to become available but without the summer crowds. Puffins begin returning to coastal areas. The weather can be quite changeable, so be prepared for anything from sunny days to snow showers. It's a good time for budget-conscious travelers to visit before peak season prices kick in.

April brings Sumardagurinn fyrsti, the first day of summer—even if it doesn't feel like summer yet! We have a love-hate relationship with this holiday because sometimes it's still snowy, and other times it's sunny—you never know. During Easter, shops have limited hours due to holidays like Páskadagur, and most people stay home with family. If you're visiting, it's good to plan ahead since some places might be closed.

Pros: • Spring is in the air, with longer days • Last chance for Northern Lights before summer • Milder temperatures, though still cool • Some summer activities start to become available

Cons: • Unpredictable weather – can be rainy • Some winter activities winding down • Not quite warm enough for typical summer activities • Puffins have not yet arrived in large numbers

Is April a good time to visit Iceland?

April is a shoulder season month that offers a bit of everything. You might catch the last of the Northern Lights or the start of spring wildlife. It's a good time if you want to avoid peak crowds but still have decent weather for exploring.

May

May in Iceland is when things really start to liven up. The days get seriously long, with nearly 24 hours of daylight by month's end. Temperatures are on the up, usually hovering between 5-10°C (41-50°F). It's still chilly, so don't forget your coat, but it's pleasant enough for outdoor exploring. This is a great month for wildlife enthusiasts. Puffins return to coastal areas in full force, and whale-watching tours kick into high gear. Spring flowers start to add splashes of color to the landscape, making for some pretty spectacular scenery.

Most of the country becomes accessible in May, though some highland roads might still be closed. Tourist crowds are still relatively thin, so you can enjoy popular spots without the summer hustle and bustle. It's a sweet spot for travelers – you get long days for sightseeing, decent weather, and lower prices before the peak season hits. Just remember, Iceland's weather can be a bit of a trickster, so pack for all conditions!

Pros: • Long daylight hours (almost Midnight Sun) • Milder weather, great for outdoor activities • Puffins and whales start arriving • Spring flowers in bloom • Fewer crowds than summer peak

Cons: • Can still be chilly, especially at night • Some highland roads are still closed • Prices starting to rise for peak season • No chance of seeing the Northern Lights

Is May a good time to visit Iceland?

May is an excellent time to visit Iceland if you want to experience the awakening of spring without the summer crowds. You'll enjoy long daylight hours, which are great for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The weather is mild by Icelandic standards, though still cool, so pack layers. It's a prime time for wildlife watching, especially for puffins and whales. With fewer tourists than in summer, you'll have more space to enjoy popular attractions. Just be prepared for some variability in weather and have a mix of winter and summer gear.

June

June brings the start of summer and the famous Midnight Sun. You'll have 24 hours of daylight, perfect for maximizing your sightseeing. Temperatures are warmer, typically between 9-15°C (48-59°F). This is when Iceland is at its most accessible – all roads are open, including in the highlands.

June is a lively month, with the Icelandic National Day on June 17th, celebrated with parades, concerts, and parties all over the country. There are also local festivals like Sjómannadagurinn, honoring fishermen with seaside events. The Color Run adds some fun with a colorful 5K race, and in Grímsey, the Summer Solstice Festival lets you experience almost 24 hours of daylight under the midnight sun.

It's peak time for wildlife watching, with plenty of puffins, whales, and other animals active. The Secret Solstice music festival and the Viking Festival add to the summer vibe. However, this is also the start of the busy tourist season, so expect more crowds and higher prices. Book accommodations and tours well in advance.

Pros: • Midnight Sun – 24 hours of daylight • Warmest month, great for outdoor activities • All roads open, including highlands • Peak time for puffins and whales • Festivals like Secret Solstice and Viking Festival

Cons: • Start of peak tourist season – more crowds • Higher prices for accommodation and tours • Need to book in advance, especially for popular spots • No Northern Lights

Is June a good time to visit Iceland?

June is amazing if you want to make the most of long days and milder weather. It's perfect for road trips, hiking, and wildlife watching. The Midnight Sun is a unique experience. Just be prepared for more tourists and higher prices.

July

July is the height of summer in Iceland and the busiest month for tourism. It's the warmest month, with temperatures usually between 10-15°C (50-59°F), though it can occasionally get warmer. The Midnight Sun is still in effect, giving you long days to explore.

July is packed with local festivals showcasing regional culture. In Akranes, Irish Days celebrate ties with Ireland through music and dance. Selfoss hosts Kótelettan, where people gather to enjoy grilled lamb chops, live music, and family activities. In Reykjavík, the Götubitahátíð food truck festival is a must for food lovers—you can try all kinds of street food in a super fun atmosphere.

This is the best time for hiking, camping, and exploring the highlands. Wildlife watching is excellent, and you'll find various festivals and events happening across the country. However, popular tourist spots can get very crowded, and prices are at their peak. If you're visiting in July, book everything well in advance and be prepared for busy sites.

Pros: • Warmest month with long daylight hours • All areas accessible, including highlands • Great for camping and outdoor activities • Lots of festivals and events

Cons: • Peak tourist season – very crowded • Highest prices for accommodation and activities • Need to book well in advance • No Northern Lights

Is July a good time to visit Iceland?

July is ideal if you want the best weather and don't mind crowds. It's great for exploring all parts of Iceland, including remote areas. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and festival-goers. But be ready for peak season prices and busy tourist spots.

August

August is still summer in Iceland, with warm temperatures similar to July. Days are long, though you'll start to see proper nights return towards the end of the month. It's a great time for outdoor activities, road trips, and festivals like Reykjavik Pride.

August is one of the most festive months here. It's when Verslunarmannahelgin, the Merchant's Weekend, takes place, leading to celebrations and festivals across Iceland—it's like the whole country is partying. You have the Þjóðhátíð festival in Vestmannaeyjar, which is the biggest, but there's also Eina með öllu in Akurery, Reykjavík has Innipúkinn, and much more. Stykkishólmur hosts Danish Days, celebrating historical ties with Denmark through traditional food, music, and cultural activities.

The weather is generally good for exploring, and all areas of the country are accessible. You'll still see plenty of wildlife, including puffins, before they leave for the season. Like July, it's busy with tourists and prices are high. Towards the end of the month, you might even catch the first glimpse of the Northern Lights if conditions are right.

Pros: • Still warm with long days, but nights getting darker • All areas accessible • Great for outdoor activities and road trips • Cultural events like Reykjavik Pride

Cons: • Still in peak tourist season – crowded • High prices continue • Need to book in advance • Very slim chance of Northern Lights at month's end

Is August a good time to visit Iceland?

August is similar to July but with a slight chance of seeing the Northern Lights towards the end of the month. It's great for combining summer activities with the possibility of aurora viewing. Still busy and pricey, though.

September

September is a fantastic shoulder season month in Iceland. The summer crowds start to thin out, but the weather is still relatively mild, with temperatures usually between 5-10°C (41-50°F). Days are getting shorter, which means the return of dark nights and the Northern Lights.

Fall colors start to appear, making for beautiful landscapes. You can still do most summer activities, and prices begin to drop from peak season. The Reykjavik International Film Festival happens this month. It's a great time to visit if you want a mix of summer and fall experiences with fewer tourists.

September brings festivals that light up the start of autumn. Ljósanótt in Keflavík is a cultural festival with art exhibitions, concerts, and fireworks that light up the town—it's really beautiful. In Reykjavík, the University hosts its own Oktoberfest, where people come together to enjoy beer, live music, and a festive vibe. As the nights get longer, it's also a great time to catch the Northern Lights starting to appear again.

Pros: • Transition to fall colors • Northern Lights start to be visible • Still mild weather, but fewer tourists • Reykjavik International Film Festival

Cons: • Days getting shorter • Some summer activities winding down • Weather becoming more unpredictable • Highland roads may close by month's end

Is September a good time to visit Iceland?

September is a great shoulder season month. You get a mix of summer and fall experiences, plus the start of the Northern Lights season. It's less crowded than in summer but still has decent weather for exploring.

October

October brings full-on autumn to Iceland. The days get noticeably shorter, and temperatures cool down, usually ranging from 2-7°C (36-45°F). Fall colors are at their peak, creating stunning scenery. This is a great month for Northern Lights viewing as dark nights return.

While some summer tours start to wind down, you can still do a lot of activities. Weather can be quite variable, so be prepared for anything from sunny days to early snow. It's a good month for budget travelers as prices drop and crowds thin out even more.

Pros: • Fall colors in full swing • Good chances for Northern Lights • Fewer tourists and lower prices • Iceland Airwaves music festival

Cons: • Noticeably shorter days • Colder temperatures, possible early snow • Some summer tours and activities are unavailable • Weather can be quite unpredictable

Is October a good time to visit Iceland?

October offers a nice balance of fall scenery, Northern Lights potential, and fewer crowds. It's good if you don't mind cooler weather and want to save some money. Just make sure to pack for changeable conditions.

November

November marks the transition to winter in Iceland. Days are short, with about 5-6 hours of daylight by month's end. Temperatures drop, usually hovering between -1 to 3°C (30-37°F) in Reykjavik. This is prime Northern Lights season, with long, dark nights perfect for aurora viewing.

Winter activities like ice caving start to become available. The Iceland Airwaves festival usually happens in early November. While many summer tours are no longer operating, you'll find lower prices and fewer tourists. Be prepared for cold weather and possible storms, and check road conditions regularly if you're driving.

Pros: • Northern Lights viewing in full swing • Start of winter activities like ice caving • Iceland Airwaves continues • Fewer tourists and lower prices

Cons: • Short days (7-8 hours of daylight) • Cold temperatures and possible storms • Many summer tours not operating • Some roads closed due to weather

Is November a good time to visit Iceland?

November is great for Northern Lights and the start of winter activities. It's much quieter than summer, with lower prices. Good for those who enjoy cozy indoor time mixed with winter adventures. Pack warm clothes!

December

December brings full winter to Iceland, along with festive holiday spirit. It's cold, with temperatures in Reykjavik averaging around 0°C (32°F) and colder elsewhere. Days are at their shortest, with only about 4-5 hours of daylight around the winter solstice.

This is an excellent time for Northern Lights viewing and winter activities like ice caving and glacier hiking. Reykjavik is particularly charming with its Christmas decorations and markets. New Year's Eve in Reykjavik is famous for its fireworks. While it's cold and dark, the holiday atmosphere and winter scenery can make for a magical visit. Just be sure to pack plenty of warm layers!

Pros: • Winter Wonderland atmosphere • Excellent Northern Lights viewing • Unique Christmas and New Year's celebrations • Winter activities like ice caving and glacier hiking

Cons: • Shortest days of the year (4-5 hours of daylight) • Cold temperatures and possible storms • Limited road access, especially in highlands • Some attractions and tours closed

Is December a good time to visit Iceland?

December can be magical with its festive atmosphere and winter scenery. It's perfect for Northern Lights and winter sports. The short days are challenging, but the holiday spirit makes up for it. Great for a unique Christmas or New Year's experience.

Seasonal Highlights in Iceland

Your experience in Iceland can vary a lot depending on the season, so it's really a matter of what you're priorities are.

Spring (March to May)

Spring in Iceland is a mix of winter hanging on and warmer days starting to show up. Temperatures go from freezing up to about 10°C (50°F). The weather is all over the place—it might be sunny one day and snowing the next—so bring layers. In March, you can still catch the Northern Lights sometimes. By May, the days are much longer, and puffins come back to nest on cliffs at places like Dyrhólaey and the Westman Islands. Waterfalls are full from melting snow, and there are fewer tourists, so it's a good time to explore popular spots without big crowds.

Summer (June to August)

Summer brings mild temperatures between 10°C and 15°C (50°F to 59°F) and the Midnight Sun, giving you almost 24 hours of daylight. It's great for outdoor adventures like hiking in Landmannalaugar, exploring the highlands, and driving the Ring Road. Wildlife is abundant—you can go whale watching in places like Húsavík and see puffins along the coast. Festivals like Iceland's National Day, the Secret Solstice Festival, and Reykjavík Pride add to the fun. Just remember, it's peak tourist season, so expect crowds and higher prices. Booking things ahead of time is a good idea.

Fall (September to November)

Fall in Iceland is awesome as the leaves change color. Temperatures drop from about 10°C (50°F) down to freezing, and the Northern Lights come back as nights get longer. In September, you can still do many summer activities with fewer tourists around. October is great for photos with beautiful contrasts, and by November, winter activities like ice-caving startup. Be ready for colder weather and shorter days, but it's a great time to enjoy both fall and the beginning of winter.

Winter (December to February)

Winter turns Iceland into a snowy wonderland with temperatures around freezing or below. Days are short—only 4-5 hours of daylight—but that means more chances to see the Northern Lights. It's a prime time for activities like glacier hiking, ice caving, snowmobiling, and soaking in hot springs like the Blue Lagoon while it's snowy outside. Festivals like Þorrablót and the Winter Lights Festival brighten up the dark months. Some roads might be closed due to snow, so make sure to check the weather and plan ahead.

Weather in Different Parts of Iceland

Iceland's weather can vary a lot depending on where you are. Here's a quick rundown:

South and West Iceland

In places like Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, and along the south coast, the weather is milder compared to other parts of the country. Thanks to the Gulf Stream, winters are cold but not extreme, usually around 0°C (32°F). Summers are cool, with temperatures between 10°C and 13°C (50°F to 55°F). It's one of the wetter areas, so expect more rain, especially in the winter months.

North Iceland

Up north, in towns like Akureyri and around Lake Mývatn, winters are colder with more snow. Temperatures can drop below -10°C (14°F), and snowfall is common. Summers are slightly warmer than in the south, ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). The skies are often clearer here, which can make for crisp days.

East Iceland

The East Fjords have weather similar to the North—cold winters with snow and mild summers. Winters can be pretty chilly, and strong winds are common. Summers are cool, with temperatures between 8°C and 14°C (46°F to 57°F). This area tends to be a bit drier than the south and west, but the weather can still change quickly.

Westfjords

The Westfjords experience some of the harshest weather in Iceland. Winters are long and cold, with heavy snowfall and temperatures often well below freezing. Roads can be tough to navigate or even closed due to snow and ice. Summers are short and cool, rarely going above 10°C (50°F). Fog and rain happen a lot throughout the year.

Highlands

The central highlands are uninhabited and only accessible from late June to early September. Even in summer, the weather is unpredictable and can be extreme. Temperatures can drop close to freezing at night, and sudden changes like rain, wind, or even snow are common. If you're heading here, it's important to be ready for all kinds of weather.

It's Always Good to Come to Iceland

Remember, no matter when you visit Iceland, it's a stunning place. Each season has its own magic. I went in May and loved it, but your perfect time might be different depending on what you want to see and do. Pack layers, be flexible, and you'll have an amazing time whenever you go!

Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Time to Visit Iceland