Best Times to Visit Iceland
Quick Answer:
When June to August arrive in Iceland, the midnight sun paints the majestic landscapes with an ethereal glow, offering endless daylight for exploring. These months bring the warmest temperatures, perfect for hiking amongst breathtaking waterfalls and glaciers. September and October offer a different majesty, with the Northern Lights beginning their celestial dance across the crisp night sky, while the vibrant colors of autumn transform the majestic scenery. For a winter wonderland experience, visit during the winter months (December-February) to witness majestic glaciers, snow-covered mountains, and the possibility of seeing the aurora borealis illuminating the night. However, be prepared for shorter days and potentially challenging weather conditions.
Best Months to Visit:
Airport Code
KEF
Coordinates
64.96°, -19.02°
Top Things to Do
Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa: Beyond the Tourist Trail
While the Blue Lagoon is iconic, avoid peak hours by visiting late afternoon or on a weekday. Pre-book your entry and consider adding a silica mud mask for an extra luxurious experience. The warm, mineral-rich waters are incredibly soothing, especially after a day of exploring.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Kayak Tour: Up Close with Icebergs
Paddle through a breathtaking landscape of floating icebergs at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Choose a guided kayak tour for safety and expert insights into the glacier's formation and the unique ecosystem. The best light for photography is during the golden hour.
Secret Hot Springs Hike: Landmannalaugar's Hidden Gems
Venture beyond the popular hot springs and discover secluded geothermal pools in the Landmannalaugar area. This requires a bit of hiking, but the reward is a truly private and rejuvenating experience surrounded by colorful rhyolite mountains. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery.
Reykjavik's Street Art Scene: Urban Exploration
Explore the vibrant street art scene in Reykjavik's neighborhoods beyond the main tourist areas. Many artists showcase Icelandic culture and environmental themes. Look for murals in the Grandi harbor area or along the streets of Laugavegur. Consider a guided street art tour for deeper insights.
Essential Travel Tips
Iceland is expensive! Prioritize eating at local bakeries for affordable and delicious pastries and soups. Pack some non-perishable snacks like energy bars to avoid constantly buying overpriced tourist-trap food.
The Reykjavik City Bus is surprisingly efficient and affordable for getting around the capital. Download the Straeto app to check schedules and plan your routes; it's much better than relying on printed schedules.
Iceland is generally very safe, but unpredictable weather is a real hazard. Check the Vedur.is website (Icelandic Meteorological Office) religiously before any day trips, especially hikes, and always let someone know your plans.
Learn a few basic Icelandic phrases – even a simple "Takk" (thank you) goes a long way. Icelanders appreciate the effort, and it can lead to more authentic interactions with locals.
Don't be afraid to try fermented shark (Hákarl)! It's an acquired taste, but a truly unique Icelandic experience. If you're not adventurous, skyr (a type of yogurt) is a delicious and readily available alternative.
Pack layers! Iceland's weather can change dramatically in a short time. Waterproof and windproof outerwear is essential, even in summer. Good hiking boots are a must if you plan on exploring beyond Reykjavik.
Weather Details
Monthly Weather Data Table
| Month | High (°C) | Low (°C) | High (°F) | Low (°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rain Days | Daylight (h) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 0°C | -3°C | 32°F | 27°F | 60mm | 10 days | 6h |
| Feb | 1°C | -2°C | 34°F | 28°F | 50mm | 9 days | 8h |
| Mar | 3°C | 0°C | 37°F | 32°F | 60mm | 10 days | 12h |
| Apr | 6°C | 2°C | 43°F | 36°F | 65mm | 11 days | 15h |
| May | 10°C | 5°C | 50°F | 41°F | 70mm | 12 days | 18h |
| Jun | 13°C | 8°C | 55°F | 46°F | 80mm | 13 days | 20h |
| Jul | 15°C | 10°C | 59°F | 50°F | 90mm | 14 days | 20h |
| Aug | 14°C | 9°C | 57°F | 48°F | 80mm | 13 days | 18h |
| Sep | 11°C | 6°C | 52°F | 43°F | 70mm | 12 days | 15h |
| Oct | 7°C | 3°C | 45°F | 37°F | 75mm | 11 days | 12h |
| Nov | 3°C | 0°C | 37°F | 32°F | 70mm | 10 days | 8h |
| Dec | 1°C | -2°C | 34°F | 28°F | 65mm | 10 days | 6h |
All Things to Do in Iceland
Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa: Beyond the Tourist Trail
activityWhile the Blue Lagoon is iconic, avoid peak hours by visiting late afternoon or on a weekday. Pre-book your entry and consider adding a silica mud mask for an extra luxurious experience. The warm, mineral-rich waters are incredibly soothing, especially after a day of exploring.
Best time: Sep-Oct, May-Jun
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Kayak Tour: Up Close with Icebergs
naturePaddle through a breathtaking landscape of floating icebergs at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Choose a guided kayak tour for safety and expert insights into the glacier's formation and the unique ecosystem. The best light for photography is during the golden hour.
Best time: Jun-Aug
Secret Hot Springs Hike: Landmannalaugar's Hidden Gems
natureVenture beyond the popular hot springs and discover secluded geothermal pools in the Landmannalaugar area. This requires a bit of hiking, but the reward is a truly private and rejuvenating experience surrounded by colorful rhyolite mountains. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery.
Best time: Jun-Sep
Reykjavik's Street Art Scene: Urban Exploration
culturalExplore the vibrant street art scene in Reykjavik's neighborhoods beyond the main tourist areas. Many artists showcase Icelandic culture and environmental themes. Look for murals in the Grandi harbor area or along the streets of Laugavegur. Consider a guided street art tour for deeper insights.
Best time: May-Sep
Whale Watching Adventure: From Húsavík
natureHúsavík is a charming town known as the whale watching capital of Iceland. Take a boat tour during the warmer months for a chance to spot humpback whales, orcas, and other marine wildlife. Choose a smaller boat for a more intimate experience.
Best time: May-Sep
Icelandic Culinary Delights: Beyond the Usual
foodSample traditional Icelandic cuisine beyond the usual tourist traps. Look for restaurants serving dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, such as fresh seafood, lamb, and skyr (yogurt). Ask locals for recommendations on hidden culinary gems.
Best time: Year-round
Shopping for Icelandic Design: Local Crafts and Wool
shoppingDiscover unique Icelandic designs beyond the typical souvenir shops. Look for local artisans selling handcrafted jewelry, wool sweaters, and other unique items. Visit design shops in Reykjavik or explore smaller towns for authentic finds.
Best time: Year-round
Northern Lights Hunt: Away from City Lights
natureEscape the city lights for the best chance to witness the aurora borealis. Head to the countryside on a clear, dark night during the winter months. Check the aurora forecast before you go and be patient – it's a magical experience.
Best time: Sep-Apr
Getting Around Iceland
Rental Car
Driving yourself offers unparalleled flexibility to explore Iceland's Ring Road and beyond, especially in summer. However, conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared for gravel roads and potential weather delays. Four-wheel drive is recommended for venturing off the main roads.
Flybus Airport Transfer
A convenient and reliable option for traveling between Keflavík International Airport (KEF) and Reykjavík. Buses run frequently and drop off at various locations in the city.
Domestic Flights
Icelandair and other airlines offer convenient domestic flights between Reykjavík and other towns like Akureyri, Egilsstaðir, and Ísafjörður. This is the fastest way to cover long distances, especially in the winter.
Public Buses (Strætó)
Reykjavík and its surrounding areas have a comprehensive bus network (Strætó). It's an affordable way to get around the capital and reach nearby attractions. However, it can be slow outside of the city.
Hitchhiking
Hitchhiking is a popular and budget-friendly option for adventurous travelers, particularly during the summer months. It's a great way to meet locals and experience Iceland's stunning landscapes.
Similar Destinations
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time of year to visit Iceland to see the Northern Lights?
For the best chance of seeing the aurora borealis, visit Iceland between September and April. These months offer long hours of darkness, crucial for viewing the lights, and statistically higher aurora activity. However, be prepared for potential cold and snowy conditions; pack layers!
How easy is it to get around Iceland without a car?
While renting a car offers the most flexibility, especially for exploring beyond Reykjavik, public transportation is surprisingly decent. Buses connect major towns and cities, but they're less frequent in rural areas. Consider using a combination of buses and organized tours, especially if you're not comfortable driving on icy roads.
What are some lesser-known spots in Iceland that avoid the crowds?
Skip the Blue Lagoon and head to the Myvatn Nature Baths for a more secluded geothermal experience. For hiking, explore the less-visited Fjallabak Nature Reserve in the highlands for stunning landscapes and fewer fellow hikers. Remember to check road conditions before venturing into the highlands, as they can be challenging.
What local customs should I be aware of in Iceland?
Icelanders are generally quite reserved, so don't be surprised by a more formal approach than you might expect. Taking off your shoes when entering someone's home is customary. Also, tipping isn't expected in Iceland, as service charges are usually included in the price.
How expensive is Iceland, and what's the best way to manage my budget?
Iceland is undeniably expensive, particularly for food and accommodation. To save money, consider self-catering some meals using groceries from Bonus, a popular local supermarket. Look for deals and book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season. Free activities like hiking and exploring nature are abundant!
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