Best Times to Visit Iceland
Quick Answer:
June to August offer the most daylight hours, allowing you to fully explore Iceland's majestic landscapes under the midnight sun. Witness breathtaking golden sunsets that stretch into the late hours, painting the sky with vibrant hues. September and October bring crisp air and fewer crowds, perfect for hiking amidst the fiery colors of autumn, while the majestic Northern Lights begin to dance across the night sky. For a winter wonderland experience, December to February offers the chance to see the Northern Lights at their most spectacular, with the possibility of snow-covered landscapes and ice caves adding to the majestic beauty. March to May reveal the first signs of spring, as waterfalls roar to life and the majestic landscapes slowly awaken from their winter slumber.
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 arriving early or late for a more tranquil experience. Explore the silica mud masks and enjoy the lagoon's healing waters. Consider booking a private in-water massage for ultimate relaxation.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Kayak Tour: Up Close with Icebergs
Paddle through the mesmerizing Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, surrounded by colossal icebergs that calve from Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. Choose a guided tour for safety and insights into the lagoon's unique ecosystem. The best light for photography is during the golden hour.
Reykjavik's Street Art Scene: Urban Exploration
Discover Reykjavik's vibrant street art scene, a hidden gem showcasing local and international artists' talent. Wander through the streets of the city center and beyond, looking for murals and graffiti reflecting Icelandic culture and history. Many pieces are found in the neighborhoods of Laugardalur and Hljómskálagarður.
Whale Watching from Húsavík: A Wildlife Encounter
Embark on a whale-watching tour from Húsavík, the self-proclaimed whale-watching capital of Iceland. Choose a smaller boat tour for a more intimate experience and better chances of spotting humpback whales, orcas, and other marine life. Remember your binoculars and warm layers!
💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.
Essential Travel Tips
Iceland is expensive! Prioritize eating at local bakeries for affordable and delicious pastries and soups. Pack some non-perishable snacks to avoid constantly buying overpriced tourist fare. Also, look for happy hour deals at pubs for cheaper drinks.
Download the Strætó app for easy bus navigation around Reykjavik and other towns. Buses are frequent and affordable, especially if you buy a multi-day pass. Consider renting a car for exploring outside of the city, but be prepared for potentially rough road conditions and gravel roads.
Iceland is generally very safe, but be aware of unpredictable weather conditions, especially when hiking. Always check the weather forecast before heading out and let someone know your plans. Carry a fully charged phone and a portable charger.
Icelanders are generally reserved but friendly. Don't be surprised if conversations are brief and polite. Learning a few basic Icelandic phrases like "Takk" (thank you) and "Halló" (hello) will be appreciated. Respect nature and leave no trace when visiting natural areas.
Try the local delicacy, fermented shark (Hákarl). It's an acquired taste, but a true Icelandic experience! Also, don't miss out on fresh seafood – it's abundant and delicious. Look for restaurants outside the main tourist areas for better value.
Pack layers! Iceland's weather can change rapidly. Waterproof and windproof outerwear is essential, even in summer. Good hiking boots are a must if you plan on exploring beyond the cities. Don't forget a swimsuit – Iceland's geothermal pools are a highlight!
💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.
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 | 60mm | 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 | 19h |
| Aug | 14°C | 9°C | 57°F | 48°F | 80mm | 13 days | 16h |
| Sep | 10°C | 6°C | 50°F | 43°F | 70mm | 12 days | 13h |
| Oct | 6°C | 3°C | 43°F | 37°F | 70mm | 11 days | 10h |
| Nov | 3°C | 0°C | 37°F | 32°F | 70mm | 10 days | 7h |
| Dec | 1°C | -2°C | 34°F | 28°F | 60mm | 10 days | 5h |
All Things to Do in Iceland
Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa: Beyond the Tourist Trail
activityWhile the Blue Lagoon is iconic, avoid peak hours by arriving early or late for a more tranquil experience. Explore the silica mud masks and enjoy the lagoon's healing waters. Consider booking a private in-water massage for ultimate relaxation.
Best time: Sep-Oct, May-Jun
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Kayak Tour: Up Close with Icebergs
naturePaddle through the mesmerizing Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, surrounded by colossal icebergs that calve from Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. Choose a guided tour for safety and insights into the lagoon's unique ecosystem. The best light for photography is during the golden hour.
Best time: Jun-Aug
Reykjavik's Street Art Scene: Urban Exploration
culturalDiscover Reykjavik's vibrant street art scene, a hidden gem showcasing local and international artists' talent. Wander through the streets of the city center and beyond, looking for murals and graffiti reflecting Icelandic culture and history. Many pieces are found in the neighborhoods of Laugardalur and Hljómskálagarður.
Best time: May-Sep
Whale Watching from Húsavík: A Wildlife Encounter
natureEmbark on a whale-watching tour from Húsavík, the self-proclaimed whale-watching capital of Iceland. Choose a smaller boat tour for a more intimate experience and better chances of spotting humpback whales, orcas, and other marine life. Remember your binoculars and warm layers!
Best time: May-Sep
Secret Hot Springs Hike: Landmannalaugar's Hidden Gems
activityVenture beyond the popular hot springs and discover hidden geothermal pools in the Landmannalaugar area. This requires some hiking, but the reward is a secluded soak surrounded by colorful rhyolite mountains. Check weather conditions and trail difficulty before you go.
Best time: Jun-Sep
Icelandic Culinary Delights: Beyond the Usual
foodSample traditional Icelandic cuisine beyond the usual tourist fare. Seek out local restaurants serving dishes like Plokkfiskur (fish stew) or hangikjöt (smoked lamb). Look for restaurants emphasizing locally sourced ingredients.
Best time: Year-round
Lava Caves Exploration: Thrilling Underworld Journey
natureExplore the fascinating lava caves of Iceland, such as the Víðgelmir cave or Raufarhólshellir. Join a guided tour for safety and to learn about the geological formations. Wear sturdy shoes and warm layers, as the caves are cool and damp.
Best time: Jun-Sep
Shopping for Icelandic Design: Local Crafts and Wool
shoppingDiscover unique Icelandic designs beyond the typical tourist shops. Explore local boutiques and craft shops in Reykjavik and smaller towns for handmade wool sweaters, jewelry, and other artisan crafts. Look for the 'Handknitting Association of Iceland' label for authentic Icelandic wool products.
Best time: Year-round
Getting Around Iceland
Rental Car
Driving yourself offers unparalleled freedom to explore Iceland's Ring Road and beyond, especially in summer. However, be prepared for varied road conditions and potential for long driving days. 4x4 is recommended for F-roads (highland tracks).
Flybus Airport Transfer
A convenient and reliable airport shuttle connecting Keflavík International Airport (KEF) to Reykjavík. Buses run frequently and drop off at various city center hotels.
Domestic Flights
Icelandair and other airlines offer domestic flights between Reykjavík and other regions like Akureyri, Egilsstaðir, and the Westfjords. This is essential for reaching remote areas efficiently.
Public Buses (Strætó)
Reykjavík and some other towns have a public bus system. It's affordable but can be infrequent outside of the capital area. Useful for shorter distances within Reykjavík.
Hitchhiking
Hitchhiking is possible, particularly during summer months along the Ring Road, but it's not always reliable. It's a budget-friendly option for adventurous travelers.
💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.
Similar Destinations
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time of year to visit Iceland to see the Northern Lights?
For Northern Lights hunting, you'll want to go during the winter months, from September to April. However, keep in mind that the further into winter you go, the shorter the days get, and the weather can be more unpredictable. I'd recommend aiming for September-October or March-April for a balance of darkness and reasonable weather.
How easy is it to get around Iceland without a car?
While renting a car gives you the most freedom, it's definitely doable without one. Iceland has a decent public bus system, especially between major towns. However, it's much slower than driving, and you'll be limited in where you can go. Consider using a combination of buses and guided tours, especially for remote areas.
What are some local customs I should be aware of in Iceland?
Icelanders are generally quite reserved, so don't be surprised if they're not overly effusive. Taking off your shoes when entering someone's home is customary, and tipping isn't expected in most places. Learning a few basic Icelandic phrases will be appreciated, even if it's just 'Takk' (thank you).
Besides the Blue Lagoon, what are some lesser-known geothermal spots worth visiting?
Skip the crowds at the Blue Lagoon and head to the Secret Lagoon in Fludir – it's much smaller, more intimate, and still stunning. Myravatn Nature Baths are another great alternative, offering a similar experience with fewer tourists. And for something truly unique, look into the Reykjadalur Hot Spring River for a natural hot spring hike.
What's the best way to stay safe while exploring Iceland's more remote areas?
Always let someone know your itinerary, especially if you're venturing off the beaten path. Check weather forecasts religiously, as conditions can change rapidly. Carry extra layers, food, and water, and be prepared for potential delays. A GPS device or offline maps are essential, as cell service can be spotty in remote areas.
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