When is the Best Time to Visit Iceland?
Uncover the best time of year to experience the other-worldly landscapes of Iceland.
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The best time to visit Iceland depends on what you’re hoping to do. One of the few places that remains spectacular year-round, Iceland has something mesmerizing to offer each month. Winter brings snow in abundance with cozy hotels, landscapes covered in a blanket of white, and of course the real star of the show: the Northern Lights. While June to August brings warm weather and the most sunshine, which coincides with Iceland’s peak season. Make the most of the long summer days with whale watching and outdoor activities such as hiking or kayaking. Read on for more about the best time of year to visit Iceland.
Monthly Climate Guide for Iceland
, Iceland
Average temperatures (Fahrenheit) and rainfall (inches)
Our Experts Say...
"Iceland is a fantastic year-round destination, with certain times of year offering different experiences.
"In the summer months, the daylight is plentiful and mountain passes have thawed giving access to the spectacular hinterlands. Wildlife will be active as well, with chances to see whales and puffins.
"If the Northern Lights are on your bucket list, then your best chance of a viewing is from October to February, when the nights are at their longest. Icelandic winters are much milder than people expect, so don't be put off by the thought of the cold. The twilight hours are beautiful and we know how to make the most of your days here!
"The weather in Iceland can be changeable at any time, and it isn't uncommon to have all four seasons in a day. Packing layers will allow you to stay out exploring no matter what the weather brings!"
Rachael Mendizabel, Europe Specialist
Iceland transforms each season, offering distinct landscapes and experiences catering to various interests. Winter (November to March) is the best time to visit Iceland for the Northern Lights, presenting a snowy wonderland and dark skies ideal for this spectacular display. Summer (June to August) brings endless daylight, perfect for exploring the natural beauty and engaging in outdoor activities. This period is considered the best time to travel to Iceland, especially for those looking to experience the vibrant greenery and accessible trails.
Autumn and spring transition the island from summer's lushness to winter's serene snowscape and vice versa, offering unique beauty and fewer crowds. Planning your visit around these seasons can offer a balance between the mesmerizing Northern Lights and the opportunity to explore Iceland's vast landscapes under more moderate conditions. Regardless of the season, Iceland's dynamic environment guarantees an unforgettable experience, making it a good time to visit Iceland year-round for those willing to embrace its natural wonders and seasonal variations.
Understanding Iceland’s Seasons
Iceland is a stunning country; the lure of its ethereal, natural landscapes – from exploding geysers to balmy hot springs – calls to visitors year-round, making it hard to pinpoint just one best time to visit Iceland. However, here’s season by season what delights await throughout the year.
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December, January, February
Characterized by its short days and long, nights, Iceland’s winter temperatures range from 28°F to 44°F, and snow blankets the country to create a picturesque winter wonderland. This season is the best time to visit Iceland for the Northern Lights, as the extended darkness provides ample opportunity to witness this spectacular phenomenon. You might also like to head to the area surrounding the towns of Hella and Hvolsvöllur for an adrenaline-fuelled snowmobile or jeep ride to see enormous volcanic craters, zoom past frozen waterfalls, and into remote icy landscapes. While it’s never a guarantee that you’ll see the northern lights, this location is one of the best in the world for them. Take in the show from behind your hotel’s glass walls or while warming up in a geothermically powered hot tub.
Activities such as snowmobiling, ice climbing, and ice cave explorations are popular, making winter a magical time for adventure enthusiasts.
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March, April, May
As the shoulder season, spring is the best time to visit Iceland for fewer crowds and good value on accommodation and flights. Marking a period of transformation, temperatures range around 34°F to 48°F with increasing daylight hours and the awakening of nature. Iceland's famous puffins return to the coast, and the landscape is dotted with vibrant wildflowers, making this a fantastic season for birdwatching and hiking.
May is one of the driest months and a good time to visit Iceland. The landscape starts to burst with color. This is also a fantastic time to explore Reykjavik, where you can make the most of the world-class restaurants and captivating sites before the tourist rush in the summer.
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June, July, August
As the peak tourist season, summer boasts nearly 24 hours of daylight, especially in June and July, allowing for extensive exploration of Iceland's natural wonders. The weather is milder with temperatures hovering around 46°F to 57°F, and the countryside is lush and green, ideal for waterfall visits, whale watching, and road trips. Iceland in July and August are perfect for seeing some of the country's most iconic sights, like Iceland’s Golden Circle, a 300km route from Reykjavik. There are the translucent waters of the Silfra fissure, hot springs, and the thundering Gullfoss waterfall. While, on Iceland's south coast, you’ll find a magical area of black sand beaches, more powerful waterfalls, and intriguing rock formations, plus glaciers to climb and ancient lava tunnels to scramble into. All of which will be looking their best under the summer sun.
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September, October, November
Autumn offers cooler temperatures ranging from 36°F to 50°F and the return of the Northern Lights. The landscape is a red, orange, and gold palette, providing a beautiful backdrop for hiking, horseback riding, and participating in the traditional Icelandic sheep round-up. Iceland in October stands out as a month that combines the beauty of autumn colors with the chance to witness the Northern Lights, making it a unique time for travel.
One of the most picturesque parts of Iceland is found around the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, in the remote west of the country. Wrap up warm and hike up to Glýmur, Iceland's highest waterfall, peer over the edge of the unique Eldborg crater or jump on an Icelandic horse for a unique riding experience. Whale watching season runs through September and October when you’re likely to see sperm whales and orcas, as well as white-beaked dolphins. Birdwatching is also a highlight, particularly on the charming Flatey Island, before the snow comes in the winter.
- December, January, February
- March, April, May
- June, July, August
- September, October, November
Best time to visit Iceland for…
Northern Lights
The best time to visit Iceland for the Northern Lights is from September to March when the nights are the longest and the skies darkest, setting the stage for this spectacular display. Key locations offering optimal viewing conditions include Thingvellir National Park, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where light pollution is minimal. Staying in the countryside, away from city lights, further enhances your chances of witnessing the Aurora Borealis dance across the night sky.
Scott Dunn specializes in unforgettable, tailor-made trips to Iceland, ensuring guests not only visit Iceland at the prime time but also stay in the best places for Northern Lights viewing. With expert guidance, guests can navigate to remote areas under clear skies for an unparalleled aurora experience. Scott Dunn's bespoke itineraries are designed to maximize your chances of encountering the Northern Lights, with added insights from experienced guides.
Outdoor Adventures
The best time to travel to Iceland for hiking and trekking is from June to September, when the weather is milder and the days are long, offering ample daylight for extended explorations. This period ensures the trails are most accessible, allowing adventurers to delve into Iceland's stunning landscapes and unique geological formations.
For those keen on experiencing Iceland's renowned geothermal baths, like the Blue Lagoon, and exploring its national parks and natural wonders, the summer months of July and August are perfect. These months provide ideal weather conditions and the best opportunity to witness Iceland's dramatic waterfalls, bubbling geothermal springs, and vast lava fields. Wildlife enthusiasts will find Iceland a year-round destination, from the iconic puffins along the coastal cliffs in summer to the majestic whales in the surrounding waters.
Whale-watching
Whale watching in Iceland is a highlight for many travelers, offering an unparalleled opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural environment. The best time to travel to Iceland for whale watching is from May to September, aligning with the summer months when the sea is tranquil and the weather more amenable to marine excursions. This period optimizes your chances of encountering humpback whales, known for their dramatic breaches, minke whales, and the imposing orcas.
Choosing the right location is crucial for a memorable whale-watching experience. Reykjavik, with its array of tour operators, and Husavik, the 'Whale Watching Capital of Europe,' are prime spots for such adventures. These locations not only offer the best season to visit Iceland for marine wildlife but also ensure that visitors can comfortably enjoy the natural spectacle offered by Iceland's rich marine biodiversity.
Best Time to Visit Iceland FAQs
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Seven to ten days are typically sufficient to explore the major sights of Iceland, allowing time for both the famous Golden Circle and the breathtaking South Coast. This duration offers a balanced visit to Iceland, providing ample opportunity to soak in its natural wonders and cultural highlights.
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The best time to visit Iceland with family is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is milder and the days are longest, making it ideal for outdoor activities that appeal to all ages, from exploring waterfalls to wildlife watching.
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For those looking to explore Iceland and Norway, the ideal time is during the shoulder seasons, May to June or September to October. These months offer the best time to travel to Iceland and Norway, balancing favorable weather with fewer tourists and enhancing your experience in both destinations.
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