Best Time to Visit Iceland: A Season-by-Season Guide
Northern Lights in Iceland
Iceland, the Land of Fire and Ice, is a destination that dazzles year-round. But when is the best time to visit Iceland? The answer depends on what you want to experience, as each season offers unique opportunities and attractions. Here's a detailed guide to help you decide the perfect time for your Icelandic adventure.
Winter (December to February): Northern Lights & Winter Wonderland
Highlights:
Northern Lights Viewing: Winter is the best time to see the Aurora Borealis, thanks to the long, dark nights. Popular spots include Þingvellir National Park, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, and Vik. You can also take a Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik.
Snow Adventures: Explore glaciers, go ice caving in Vatnajökull, or enjoy snowmobiling on Langjökull.
Holiday Magic: Experience Christmas and New Year’s festivities, including Reykjavik’s famous fireworks displays.
Pros:
Fewer tourists, giving you a quieter experience.
Stunning snow-covered landscapes.
Opportunities for winter activities like ice climbing, glacier hikes and ice caves only open during the winter.
Cons:
Limited daylight hours (3–5 hours).
Some remote areas may be inaccessible due to snowstorms.
Highlands are not accessible.
Spring (March to May): Shoulder Season & Wildlife Watching
Puffins in Iceland
Highlights:
Northern Lights (early spring): March offers one of the last chances to see the aurora before the midnight sun takes over.
Puffin Season Begins: Puffins start arriving in Iceland in April, making it a great time for birdwatching.
Melting Snow & Flowing Waterfalls: Watch as the winter ice melts, creating spectacular waterfalls like Gullfoss and Seljalandsfoss.
Pros:
Milder weather and increasing daylight (10–16 hours).
Lower accommodation and flight costs compared to summer.
Fewer tourists than in peak season.
Cons:
Weather can still be unpredictable.
Some highland roads remain closed until late May.
The grass is more brown than green during the changing season.
Summer (June to August): Midnight Sun & Full Accessibility
Gljufrabui
Highlights:
Midnight Sun: Enjoy nearly 24 hours of daylight, perfect for exploring Iceland’s vast landscapes.
Highland Roads Open: Access remote areas like Landmannalaugar, Kerlingarfjöll and Thórsmörk.
Festivals: Experience local events like the Secret Solstice Music Festival and Icelandic National Day.
Pros:
Ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, and kayaking and the famous zodiac tour in Jokulsarlon.
Warmest temperatures of the year (10–15°C or 50–59°F).
Full access to Iceland’s iconic attractions, including the Golden Circle, South Coast, Highlands, The Northern cities and Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
Cons:
Peak tourist season, leading to higher prices and crowded attractions.
Accommodation and car rentals should be booked well in advance.
Northern lights are not able to be seen until very late August.
Autumn (September to November): Northern Lights & Fall Colors
Skogafoss
Highlights:
Aurora Borealis Returns: September marks the start of the Northern Lights season, paired with moderate weather.
Vibrant Fall Colors: Enjoy the changing foliage, especially around Þingvellir National Park.
Harvest Season: Visit geothermal greenhouses and taste fresh, local produce. Friðheimar Farms is a great spot to visit.
Pros:
Comfortable weather and diminishing tourist crowds.
Lower prices for accommodations and tours.
Longer nights for Northern Lights viewing (compared to summer).
Cons:
Shortening daylight hours.
Some highland roads may close by September.
Roads can become icy. Make sure you rent a 4x4 with winter tires.
Month-by-Month Breakdown
January & February: Perfect for Northern Lights and winter sports enthusiasts.
March: A mix of winter and spring, offering auroras and budding wildlife like puffins.
April & May: Ideal for budget travelers and wildlife lovers. The puffins are out in force May time.
June & July: Peak summer with the best weather and nearly endless daylight.
August: Summer warmth continues, but crowds begin to thin.
September & October: Best for Northern Lights and fall colors.
November: A quieter month with early winter charm.
Key Considerations for Planning Your Trip
Weather in Iceland: Unpredictable year-round. Always dress in layers and prepare for rain, wind, and sudden temperature changes.
Budget: Summer tends to be more expensive. Spring and autumn offer better value for money.
Activities: Choose your travel time based on must-do activities, such as ice caving (winter) or hiking (summer).
Daylight Hours: Research sunrise and sunset times to optimize your itinerary. Time and Date is a great website for this.
Final Thoughts: When Should You Visit?
If you dream of the Northern Lights, visit between October and March.
For the Midnight Sun and outdoor adventures, choose June through August.
Want to avoid crowds and save money? Spring and autumn are your best bets.
Whenever you decide to visit, Iceland promises a magical experience with its breathtaking landscapes, unique culture, and endless opportunities for adventure.
Ready to plan your trip? Check out our Self-Drive Itineraries or contact us for personalized recommendations!