Best Time of Year to Visit to Iceland - Month & Month Guide
Why It’s Important to Know the Best Time to Visit Iceland
Inside this article:
Dreaming of Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes? Whether it’s stunning hot springs, active volcanoes, black sand beaches, or the mesmerizing Northern Lights—timing is everything to experience Iceland truly. This Nordic gem offers incredible adventures year-round, but knowing what you want to see and when to go is the key to planning your perfect trip. Here’s a month-by-month guide to help you find the best season for your epic Iceland journey.
A Month-by-Month Breakdown
Iceland is the "Land of Fire and Ice," where seasons change dramatically, transforming both the landscapes and your experience. Knowing the best time to visit ensures you align your trip with your interests—hiking the volcanoes, relaxing in the hot springs, or walking through stunning ice caves.
Visiting Iceland In January
Season: Winter
Minimum Temperature: 28°F (-2°C)
Maximum Temperature: 37.8°F (3.2°C)
Key Points:
Overview: January is an off-season month in Iceland, with fewer tourists, quieter locations, and lower prices. It is a perfect time for cold-weather adventures and spotting the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
Weather Highlights: Short days with the sun rising around 11 AM and setting by 4 PM. Frequent rain and snow bring colder temperatures and reduced visibility.
Why visit in January?
Ideal for Northern Lights watching and exploring ice caves.
Enjoy horse riding through snowy landscapes with more extended daylight toward the month’s end.
Cultural Celebrations: Experience Porrablot, a traditional midwinter festival filled with feasting, toasting, and honoring the old gods (late January to late February).
Things to consider:
Short days mean limited exploration time.
Driving between destinations can be tricky due to closed roads.
Carry proper winter gear to handle the extreme cold.
Visiting Iceland in February
Season: Winter
Minimum Temperature: 26°F (-3°C)
Maximum Temperature: 37°F (3°C)
Key Points:
Overview: February remains the heart of winter in Iceland, with snowy landscapes and chilly nights. It’s still a low season with fewer people and quieter adventures.
Weather Highlights: Colder nights with an average of around 7 hours of daylight. Southern Iceland sees slightly more manageable temperatures. Snow might begin to defrost toward the end of the month with high precipitation.
Why visit in February?
Great for Northern Lights, beautiful ice caves, and soothing hot springs.
Go on orca whale-watching and wildlife photography trips.
Cultural Celebrations and Events: Celebrate the return of sunlight with events like Museum Night, Pool Night, and a mesmerizing Light Trail featuring stunning light installations as part of the Winter Lights Festival.
Things to consider:
Opt for rental cars and avoid driving on icy, risky roads.
Pack proper winter clothing to stay warm in the extreme cold.
Visiting Iceland in March
Season: Winter
Minimum Temperature: 29.7°F (–1.3°C)
Maximum Temperature: 39.6°F (4.2°C)
Key Points:
Overview: March marks one of Iceland’s wettest months, with precipitation ranging from rain to snow. While it’s warmer than peak winter, snowy conditions persist, offering a mix of weather experiences.
Weather Highlights: Around 12 hours of daylight, signaling longer days. The south may enjoy sunny, mild days, while the north experiences colder, wetter conditions—a mix of snowstorms, winds, rain, and occasional sunshine across Iceland.
Why visit in March?
Witness the vernal equinox, marking winter’s transition to spring—perfect for spotting vibrant Northern Lights.
Continue enjoying February’s activities like ice caving, whale watching, and hot springs.
Cultural Celebrations and Events: The Food and Fun Festival is the month’s highlight, offering world-class cuisine with Icelandic culture.
Things to consider:
Be cautious when opening car doors during high winds to avoid car damage—a common hazard in Iceland.
Pack for unpredictable weather, including gear for cold, warm, dry, and wet conditions.
Visiting Iceland in April
Season: Spring
Minimum Temperature: 34°F (1°C)
Maximum Temperature: 42°F (6°C)
Key Points:
Overview: April marks the end of winter and the cheerful arrival of spring with more sunlight and serene landscapes. While Northern Lights sightings decrease, the longer days mean more exploration.
Weather Highlights: Longer daylight hours and rising temperatures. Rainfall decreases, but April's weather remains unpredictable, with occasional snowstorms.
Why visit in April?
Perfect time for whale watching, exploring Þingvellir National Park, and embarking on Golden Circle tours.
Enjoy the transition of Iceland’s landscapes as spring blooms.
Cultural Celebrations and Events: Aldrei fór ég suður is an annual music festival held during the Easter weekend, showcasing local and international artists.
Things to consider:
Be prepared for unpredictable rain and winds; plan your activities accordingly.
Pack warm layers and waterproof gear to stay comfortable in varying weather.
Visiting Iceland in May
Season: Spring
Minimum Temperature: 32°F (0°C)
Maximum Temperature: 50°F (10°C)
Key Points:
Overview: May is the perfect time to explore Iceland while enjoying pleasant weather and fewer tourists. As a shoulder season, it’s ideal for cheaper deals before the summer rush begins.
Weather Highlights: Extended daylight hours with sunshine lasting up to 20 hours per day. Northern regions remain cooler, but overall conditions are milder.
Why visit in May?
Kickstart the bird-watching season especially puffins and golden plovers.
Enjoy outdoor activities like glacier hiking, snorkeling, and relaxing in the Blue Lagoon.
Benefit from good weather, smaller crowds, and cheaper prices.
Things to consider:
Be prepared for unpredictable weather.
Visiting Iceland in June
Season: Summer
Minimum Temperature: 48°F (9°C)
Maximum Temperature: 59°F (15°C)
Key Points:
Overview: May comes with summer—mild temperatures and extended daylight hours. As the snow melts, Iceland’s natural wonders are revealed, making it an ideal time to explore.
Weather Highlights: Balanced temperatures with unexpected rains.
Why visit in June?
Perfect for outdoor activities and capturing Iceland’s rich biodiversity.
Roads are open, making it easy to travel.
If you don’t enjoy being alone on the trails, you’ll find a good amount of tourists.
Witness the Midnight Sun phenomena where the sun barely sets.
Cultural Celebrations: Hafnarfjordur Viking Festival is Iceland’s oldest and largest Viking festival, featuring reenactments and a lively celebration of Viking history.
Things to consider:
Book accommodations and tours ahead to avoid price hikes.
Be prepared for light rain showers and pack appropriately.
Visiting Iceland in July
Season: Summer
Minimum Temperature: 46°F (8°C)
Maximum Temperature: 59°F (15°C)
Key Points:
Overview: July is Iceland's busiest tourist month. With sunshine, greenery, and longer days, it’s a perfect time to engage in bustling city life or explore vibrant natural scenery.
Weather Highlights: There are days when it is full sun during day and night. But nights are comparatively cooler.
Why visit in July?
The lush and birdlife is in full bloom in July and it is a great month to go bird watching or Whale Watching..
The majestic landscapes, ideal for a self-drive itinerary through the beautiful country, and abundant activities offered in Iceland in July outweigh the extra cost.
Cultural Celebrations: Bræðslan Music Festival is held yearly in an old abandoned fish factory
Things to consider:
Prices rise, crowded locations and busy trails.
Pack for warmer days and cooler nights.
Visiting Iceland in August
Season: Summer
Minimum Temperature: 46°F (8°C)
Maximum Temperature: 55°F (13°C)
Key Points:
Overview: August marks the end of summer in Iceland, offering the last chance to enjoy longer daylight hours and balanced temperatures for outdoor adventures.
Weather Highlights: The sunny days start to shorten with occasional rain showers and sunsets creeping earlier in the evening. Nights are longer and cooler.
Why visit in August?
It's your final opportunity to experience Iceland's summer wonders.
All of the popular sites are accessible.
Cultural Celebrations:
Reykjavik Pride: A vibrant event attracting tens of thousands to the city center, celebrating love and solidarity.
Reykjavik Culture Night: A diverse festival offering rich cultural experiences across the city.
Þjóðhátíð (National Festival): A three-day outdoor music festival cherished by locals and visitors.
Things to consider:
Expect busy sites.
Be prepared for unpredictable weather.
Visiting Iceland in September
Season: Fall
Minimum Temperature: 24.1°F (-4.4°C)
Maximum Temperature: 68°F (20°C)
Key Points:
Overview: September is the perfect blend of summer’s lingering charm and winter’s early beauty. With bright days and dark evenings, it’s an excellent time to enjoy the magical aurora display.
Weather Highlights: The last days of summer, less sunlight, offering darker nights.
Why visit in September?
Darker nights make it best for Northern Lights viewing.
Fewer tourists result in quieter spots and budget-friendly options.
Fall landscapes provide a vibrant backdrop for outdoor adventures.
Cultural Celebrations:
Reykjavík International Film Festival (RIFF): An 11-day global and local cinema celebration, one of the nation's major cultural highlights.
Ljósanótt (Night of Lights) Festival: Held in Keflavík, this event features concerts, art exhibitions, and spectacular lights.
Things to consider:
Some highland roads and attractions may begin to close as winter approaches.
Visiting Iceland in October
Season: Fall
Minimum Temperature: 36.9°F (2.7°C)
Maximum Temperature: 45.7°F (7.6°C)
Key Points:
Overview: October offers a blend of autumn’s vibrant colors and the calmness of winter. Although rain is common, it’s a perfect off-season month with fewer tourists and plenty of natural beauty.
Weather Highlights: The weather can change quickly, from clear days to windy and rainy ones. By the end of the month, daylight shrinks to about 8 hours, which is ideal for Northern Lights.
Why visit in October?
Popular destinations are still open, but it's important to check road conditions ahead of time.
Fall colors make Iceland’s landscapes even more stunning.
Peaceful atmosphere with fewer crowds and lower prices.
Cultural Celebrations: Enjoy Iceland's largest music festival, Iceland Airwaves.
Things to consider:
Be sure to check the weather and road conditions.
Pack for changing weather.
Visiting Iceland in November
Season: Winter
Minimum Temperature: 31.8°F (-0.1°C)
Maximum Temperature: 40.5°F (4.7°C)
Key Points:
Overview: November marks the true off-season with a significant drop in temperatures and daylight hours. It's perfect for those looking to explore Iceland’s winter landscapes in full glory.
Weather Highlights: Snow and strong winds are common, even in southern Iceland. By the end of the month, daylight is reduced to just 4-5 hours, so expect longer nights.
Why Visit in November?
Ideal for experiencing hot springs, exploring ice caves, and glacier hikes.
Northern Lights are visible with the long nights.
Cultural Celebrations: Check out Iceland Airwaves, a multi-genre music festival showcasing both local and international talent.
Things to Consider:
Be prepared for extreme cold, strong winds, and unexpected rain showers.
Pack with layers, waterproof gear, and insulated clothing to stay warm and dry.
Visiting Iceland in December
Season: Winter
Minimum Temperature: 30°F (-1°C)
Maximum Temperature: 37°F (3°C)
Key Points:
Overview: December is the darkest and coldest month of the year in Iceland, making it the perfect time to witness the Northern Lights.
Weather Highlights: Expect the coldest temperatures of the year, along with heavy snowfall.
Why visit in June?
Maximize your time under the dark skies to view the Northern Lights and explore icy landscapes and frozen waterfalls during the day.
Perfect for those seeking winter adventures.
Cultural Celebrations: Experience the festive celebrations, including fireworks on New Year’s Eve and Christmas traditions across the country.
Things to consider:
Roads may be difficult to navigate due to snow and ice.
Prepare for extremely cold nights and shorter days.
Why should you book your Iceland adventure with AdventureTripr?
At AdventureTripr, we ensure your Iceland adventure is perfectly timed with the best weather conditions for a truly unforgettable experience. We work closely with reliable local guides and operators, who update us with real-time weather forecasts. This allows us to plan your trip around the best moments to explore glaciers, soak in hot springs, or hunt for the Northern Lights. Our skilled operators take every precaution throughout your journey to keep you safe in drastically changing weather conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Question: What is the best time of year to visit Iceland?
Answer: The best time to visit Iceland is during the summer months of June to August. This period offers the warmest temperatures, extended daylight hours, and a wide range of accessible activities.
Question: Are the hiking trails in Iceland open throughout the year?
Answer: While many of Iceland's hiking trails are accessible year-round, some highland routes are typically closed in winter due to snow and weather conditions. Low-altitude trails remain open throughout the year.
Question: Are there any months to avoid while visiting Iceland?
Answer: Traveling during the winter months of November to March can be challenging due to shorter daylight hours, colder temperatures, and unpredictable weather. However, these months are ideal for viewing the Northern Lights and trying winter adventures.
Question: When is the best time for hiking in Iceland?
Answer: The best time to hike in Iceland is from mid-June to mid-September. The weather is stable during this period, and most trails are open.
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