Autumn in Iceland: A Complete Guide For Visitors
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Autumn in Iceland, from late August to early November, is a great time to visit. The scenery is full of beautiful colors, there are fun local events, and the weather is cooler but still nice. There are fewer tourists than in the summer, and you can do things like pick wild berries or maybe see the Northern Lights. It’s a perfect time to really get to know Iceland.
Key Takeaways
- Autumn turns Iceland into a mix of red, orange, and gold, making the landscapes look like a painting.
- You can explore famous spots without the summer crowds, and things like hotels and car rentals cost less.
- Longer nights mean better chances to see the Northern Lights, and festivals like the Reykjavík Film Festival bring the city to life.
- The weather can be unpredictable, ranging from mild in September to freezing in November, with rain and sometimes snow. Layers and waterproof clothes are a must.
Overview of Autumn in Iceland
When summer ends, Iceland changes into a mix of red, orange, and gold. The hills, lava fields, and birch trees look amazing with their fall colors, almost like a painting. The long summer days are gone, and now you have more regular day and night times. This makes it easier to see the Northern Lights and enjoy Iceland’s cultural activities. Reykjavík feels cozy, cafés get busier, and festivals attract people from everywhere. If you want a more genuine and less crowded experience, autumn is the best time to visit Iceland.
Why Visit Iceland in Autumn?
Autumn is a perfect time to see Iceland’s famous places like the Golden Circle, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, and the big waterfalls without the summer crowds. It feels like the country is slowing down, letting you enjoy it at your own pace. There are also local traditions, like the Réttir sheep round-up, the Reykjavík International Film Festival, and the Iceland Airwaves music festival. Plus, prices for hotels and car rentals are usually lower, which is good for your budget. And with a better chance of seeing the Northern Lights, autumn in Iceland offers fewer crowds, better prices, and amazing experiences.
Weather
The weather in Iceland during autumn can be pretty unpredictable, but that’s part of the adventure. Early on, it’s usually mild, around 10°C (50°F), but by late October and November, it can get close to freezing, especially at night. Rain is common, and the wind can pick up suddenly. Sometimes, you might even see some snow in the mountains. It’s best to wear layers, bring waterproof clothes, and keep your plans flexible. If you’re prepared, you’ll see some of Iceland’s most beautiful and dramatic weather.
Things to Do
Autumn in Iceland has a little bit of everything. Whether you’re exploring outside or checking out local events, there are plenty of things to keep you busy.
Northern Lights Viewing
As the nights get longer, your chances of seeing the Northern Lights increase, starting around mid-September. Go to darker places away from city lights, like the Grótta lighthouse near Reykjavík, to watch the lights in the sky. Early autumn is great because you can see the bright fall colors below and the lights above, making for some awesome photos.
Cultural Festivals and Events
Reykjavík comes alive in autumn with some cool festivals. The Reykjavík International Film Festival (late September to early October) shows many different movies from around the world. In November, the Iceland Airwaves music festival takes over the city with performances from new Icelandic bands and international artists in all kinds of venues. These events are perfect for experiencing Iceland’s creative side and meeting new people.
Photo Credit: Alinoe
Foraging Wild Berries and Mushrooms
Autumn is harvest time, and you can find wild blueberries and crowberries all around, even near Reykjavík in places like Heiðmörk. It’s a fun way to enjoy some fresh, local treats. Just bring a small container, take a walk through the mossy fields, and pick some berries like the locals do.
Annual Sheep Round-Up (Réttir)
In September, farmers gather sheep that have been roaming the highlands all summer. Visitors can join in the round-up and experience a real piece of Icelandic culture. It’s a community event with families, friends, and tourists working together. You’ll see lots of friendly interactions and celebrations and get a glimpse of rural Icelandic life.
Geothermal Pool Visits
After a day of exploring the cool autumn air, nothing beats relaxing in a geothermal pool. Places like Laugardalslaug or Vesturbæjarlaug in Reykjavík are perfect for soaking in warm, mineral-rich waters while enjoying the cool breeze. It’s a great way to unwind and stay warm.
Photo Credit: Meltwaterfalls (Ian)
Exploring the Golden Circle
Even with shorter days, the Golden Circle is still a must-see in autumn. Þingvellir National Park is amazing with its unique geology and history. The Geysir area has active hot springs and eruptions from Strokkur, and Gullfoss waterfall is even more powerful with the autumn rains. Plus, there are fewer tourists, so you can take your time enjoying each spot.
Hiking Opportunities
Early autumn is perfect for hiking in Iceland. The temperatures are just right, there are fewer bugs, and the scenery is breathtaking. Trails like Mount Esja near Reykjavík offer great views of the city, the coastline, and hills covered in fall colors. Make sure to check the weather and go out early to make the most of the daylight.
Whale Watching
Autumn is a great time to see whales in Iceland’s waters. September and October are the best months for spotting migrating whales. Boat tours leave from Reykjavík’s Old Harbor and other coastal towns, giving you a chance to see these amazing animals up close against some dramatic autumn skies.
Overview of the Autumn Months in Iceland
Autumn in Iceland is all about change. Each month has something special to offer, from the beautiful fall colors to the chance to see the Northern Lights. Let’s break down what you can expect in each month.
September
September is when summer fades, and autumn takes over in Iceland. Temperatures usually range between 6°C and 11°C (42°F to 52°F), making it a pleasant time to explore. The days are still fairly long, with about 14.5 hours of daylight at the start of the month, gradually dropping to around 12.5 hours. It's also the beginning of the Northern Lights season, so if the skies are clear, you might get lucky and catch the magical display.
October
October feels cooler, with temperatures between 2°C and 7°C (36°F to 45°F), and the autumn colors are at their peak. Rain is more common now, and you might even see some snow in higher areas. The days are shorter, starting with about 11 hours of daylight and ending with just 8 hours. It’s a great time to enjoy Iceland’s beauty and events like the Reykjavík International Film Festival.
November
November is a mix of autumn at the start and winter by the end. Temperatures drop to around 0°C to 4°C (32°F to 39°F), and snow becomes more frequent, especially in the north and highlands. Daylight is scarce, with only 4 to 5 hours of light per day toward the end of the month. While the darker days bring a wintry feel, they’re also perfect for spotting the Northern Lights.
Driving
Driving in Iceland in autumn is such a great way to explore. The roads are way quieter than in summer, so it feels less hectic, and you can stop and take in all the amazing views without feeling rushed. The main roads, like the Ring Road, are in good shape, and the autumn colors really make the drive extra special. Just remember, the days get shorter as you head into October and November, so plan your stops early to make the most of the daylight.
Most of the main roads stay open, but those highland F-roads—like F26 to Sprengisandur or F35 to Kjölur—usually close by September. They can get snowy or icy pretty fast. Don’t worry, though; you can still easily get to all the big spots like the Golden Circle, South Coast, or Snæfellsnes. The weather can be a little all over the place—some rain, maybe some wind—but it’s nothing you can’t handle if you take it slow and stay updated.
Renting a car is hands down the best way to get around. You can go at your own pace and even head out to see the Northern Lights if the sky clears up. If you want more flexibility, consider a campervan—it’s super handy for staying close to the action. Just make sure your car has good tires for autumn, and check sites like road.is for updates before you head out. Autumn road trips in Iceland are easy to plan and totally worth it.
Tips
- Wear layers and pack waterproof clothing—autumn weather in Iceland changes quickly.
- Plan your activities for earlier in the day since it gets dark earlier as November comes closer.
- Check road conditions often, especially if you’re heading off the main roads.
- Take advantage of lower prices on hotels and car rentals to save some money.
- Enjoy the local culture—go to festivals, try seasonal foods, and relax in Reykjavík’s cozy cafés.
- Bring a camera and tripod to capture fall colors and the Northern Lights.
- Have both indoor and outdoor plans so you’re ready for any weather.
Conclusion
Autumn in Iceland is all about colorful landscapes, cozy vibes, and fewer crowds. The fall colors are beautiful, the Northern Lights start showing up, and there are plenty of fun festivals and local events to enjoy. The weather can be unpredictable, and the days are shorter, but that’s part of the experience. With fewer people around and better prices, fall is a great time to explore Iceland and make lasting memories.
Frequently Asked Questions About Autumn in Iceland
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