Best Time to Visit Iceland

• The best time to visit Iceland depends on your preferred activities, with winter ideal for Northern Lights and ice caves and summer perfect for hiking and the Midnight Sun. 

• Iceland’s hot springs are enjoyable year-round, with winter providing snowy landscapes and summer offering remote geothermal pools under long daylight hours. 

• September and early October offer a balance of fewer tourists, good weather, and the chance to see both fall colors and the Northern Lights. 
   

Iceland is a land of dramatic landscapes, where volcanic fields, glaciers, and waterfalls change with the seasons. Choosing the best time to visit Iceland depends on what you want to experience—whether it’s the Midnight Sun in summer, the Northern Lights in winter, or fewer crowds in the shoulder seasons. Each season brings unique travel opportunities, along with varying weather conditions, prices, and accessibility to certain attractions. 

This guide will help you decide when to visit based on seasonal highlights, daylight hours, temperatures, and activities. Whether you're planning to drive the Ring Road, explore ice caves, or go whale watching, timing your trip right can make all the difference. 
 

A Guide to Iceland’s Seasons 

Iceland’s different seasons dramatically affect travel plans, from long daylight hours in summer to clear nights ideal for the Northern Lights in winter. Whether you're visiting hot springs, exploring the Ring Road, or searching for frozen waterfalls, each season offers distinct experiences. 

Spring Season (March-May): A Time of Transition 

Spring brings longer days, milder temperatures, and fewer tourists. While early March can still feel like winter, by late May, the landscapes will be greener, and highland roads will start reopening. 

• Daylight Hours: 10–20 hours, increasing steadily. 

• Weather: 28°F to 50°F (-2°C to 10°C), with some snow lingering in colder months. 

• Pros: Fewer tourists, lower prices on car rentals, and a mix of snowy and green landscapes. 

• Cons: Unpredictable weather, some remote areas remain inaccessible. 

• Best For: Frozen waterfalls, smaller crowds, and spotting early wildlife. 

Summer (June–August): Midnight Sun & Outdoor Adventures 

Summer is Iceland’s peak season, with the Midnight Sun creating nearly 24 hours of daylight. This is the ideal time for hiking, road trips, and whale watching, as highland roads are open. 

• Daylight Hours: 18–24 hours, with no true darkness in June. 

• Weather: 45°F to 65°F (7°C to 18°C), making it the warmest season. 

• Pros: Good weather, longer days, and access to the entire island, including the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. 

• Cons: More crowds, higher accommodation costs, and no Northern Lights. 

• Best For: Exploring the Golden Circle, whale watching, Blue Lagoon, and highland hikes. 

Fall (September–November): Northern Lights & Fewer Crowds 

As summer fades, fewer tourists visit, and prices drop. By late September, the aurora borealis is visible, and Iceland's landscapes glow with autumn colors. 

• Daylight Hours: 5–13 hours, gradually decreasing. 

• Weather: 30°F to 50°F (-1°C to 10°C), with occasional early snowfall. 

• Pros: Smaller crowds, lower prices, and the return of the Northern Lights. 

• Cons: Some highland roads are closed, and the weather is unpredictable. 

• Best For: Seeing the Northern Lights, fewer crowds, and mild autumn days. 

Winter (December–February): Northern Lights & Ice Caves 

Winter transforms Iceland into a snowy wonderland, perfect for seeing the Northern Lights, exploring ice caves, and backcountry skiing. However, short daylight hours and road closures can limit travel. 

• Daylight Hours: 4–6 hours, with long nights for viewing the Northern Lights viewing. 

• Weather: 14°F to 35°F (-10°C to 2°C), with prolonged snowfall in some areas. 

• Pros: Best time for Northern Lights, frozen landscapes, and winter activities like glacier tours. 

• Cons: Harsh weather, road closures, and fewer accommodation options in remote areas. 

• Best For: Northern Lights chasers, ice cave explorers, and those seeking Iceland’s winter beauty. 

Best Time to Visit Iceland for Popular Activities 

Iceland offers incredible natural phenomena throughout the year, but timing your trip right ensures you experience the best weather, fewer tourists, and optimal conditions for your preferred activities. Here’s when to visit for Northern Lights, whale watching, ice caves, and more. 

Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) – Best in Winter 

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is from September to April, with peak visibility between November and February. During these months, clear nights and high solar activity create the perfect conditions for spotting the aurora borealis dancing across the Arctic sky. 

The cold winter months offer the best chance of seeing this natural wonder, especially in East Iceland and along the South Coast, where there is less light pollution. For those wanting fewer tourists, late September or early March can be a good alternative, offering a balance of nighttime visibility and manageable weather conditions. 

Midnight Sun – Best in Summer 

If you want to experience long days and endless daylight, visit Iceland in June or July when the Midnight Sun is at its peak. During this time, the entire island enjoys up to 24 hours of daylight, making it perfect for hiking, exploring the Golden Circle, and taking road trips along the Ring Road. 

The best part of visiting during mid-summer is that you can explore without worrying about nightfall, giving you more flexibility. For those looking to enjoy smaller crowds, visiting in late June before peak season starts can be a great option. 

Iceland’s National Day on June 17 is also a fantastic time to experience the country’s culture, live music, and celebrations under the Midnight Sun. 

Whale Watching – Best in Late Spring & Summer 

The best time for whale watching in Iceland is from April to September, with peak sightings in June and July when the waters are warmer and marine life is abundant. Locations like Húsavík, Reykjavík, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula are among the best spots to see blue whales, humpbacks, and orcas. 

The high season for whale tours coincides with Iceland’s summer months when the weather is pleasant and the ocean conditions are calmer. Those traveling in late August or early September can still enjoy excellent sightings but with fewer tourists on boat tours. 

Ice Caves – Best in Winter 

For those wanting to explore Iceland’s stunning ice caves, the best time to visit is from November to March, when the caves are stable and safe to enter. The colder months ensure that the glacial formations remain intact, creating incredible blue-toned caverns in places like Vatnajökull National Park. 

Many ice-cave tours operate near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, one of the country’s most famous spots for exploring frozen landscapes. Since the weather in Iceland depends on seasonal shifts, ice cave tours are not available in summer, when the ice becomes unstable. Booking a guided tour is essential for safe access to these natural wonders. 

Hiking & Road Trips – Best in Summer & Early Fall 

The best season for hiking and road trips in Iceland is from June to September, when temperatures range from 45°F to 65°F, making the country's trails and highland roads easily accessible. This is the best time to drive the Ring Road or visit remote locations like the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and Osa Peninsula, which may be difficult to reach in colder months. 

Iceland’s highland roads, which lead to breathtaking landscapes and geothermal areas, are typically open only during the summer months. If you want to avoid large crowds, consider visiting in early September, when the weather is still pleasant, but fewer tourists are on the roads. 

Hot Springs – Best in Winter & Summer 

The best time to visit Iceland for hot springs depends on whether you prefer a steamy winter soak or a relaxing summer dip under the Midnight Sun. 

From November to March, hot springs like the Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, and South Coast geothermal pools offer a magical winter experience, with snowy landscapes and fewer tourists. Soaking in warm geothermal waters while watching the Northern Lights is a winter highlight. 

From June to August, Iceland’s remote hot springs in the Highlands, Reykjadalur Valley, and Snæfellsnes Peninsula are easier to reach, perfect for hiking and enjoying long daylight hours. 

For fewer crowds and mild temperatures, visit in late September or early October, when you might still catch the Northern Lights while relaxing in geothermal pools. 

Tips for Planning Your Trip to Iceland 

Whether you're chasing the Northern Lights, exploring the Golden Circle, or relaxing in hot springs, these tips will help you make the most of your trip. Iceland’s weather, seasonal changes, and daylight hours play a big role in planning, so consider these important travel tips before you go. 

Pack for All Weather Conditions 

Iceland’s weather is unpredictable, with sudden rain, wind, and temperature drops—even in the summer months. Packing waterproof layers, thermal clothing, and sturdy boots is essential, especially if you plan to visit ice caves, frozen waterfalls, or black-sand beaches. 

Bring a windproof and waterproof jacket year-round, and pack crampons in winter for icy walkways, especially in East Iceland and the South Coast. 

Book Accommodations & Car Rentals Early 

The high season (June–August) sees more crowds and higher prices in popular areas like Reykjavík, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and the Ring Road. If you're visiting in the winter months, renting a 4x4 vehicle is recommended for driving on snowy roads. 

Book your accommodation and car rentals at least three months in advance, especially if traveling in mid-summer or late December during New Year’s Eve celebrations. 

Choose the Best Time for Fewer Tourists 

If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, visit during the shoulder seasons (April–May, September–October). Winter months (November–March) also see smaller crowds, but some highland roads and natural attractions may be inaccessible due to snow and ice. 

Late September is a great time to see the Northern Lights, experience good weather, and avoid the peak season rush. 

Consider Travel Insurance for Unexpected Changes 

Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, leading to flight delays, road closures, and itinerary changes. Travel insurance can help cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and car rental incidents, especially if you are visiting during winter months when conditions are more extreme. 

If renting a car, check whether your travel insurance includes coverage for wind damage, a common issue in Iceland. 

Plan Around Daylight Hours 

Daylight hours change dramatically in Iceland. Midnight Sun in June and July provides 24-hour daylight, perfect for long road trips and hiking. In contrast, winter months offer only 4–6 hours of daylight, requiring careful scheduling of outdoor activities. 

If visiting in mid-December, plan activities like hot spring visits, museums, and exploring Reykjavík for the darker hours of the day. 

Check Road & Weather Conditions Before Traveling 

Iceland’s highland roads and remote areas can be closed in colder months due to snow and ice, especially routes leading to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the Ring Road, and backcountry skiing spots. Checking real-time weather and road updates is essential before heading out. 

Use reliable apps for weather alerts and road conditions, especially if visiting in late October or early November when snow begins to accumulate. 
 

FAQs 

1. What is the cheapest time to visit Iceland? 

The cheapest time to visit Iceland is during the off-season (late fall and early winter, from October to April, excluding December holidays). Flights and accommodations tend to be lower priced, and attractions are less crowded, although some rural roads may be closed due to snow. 

2. Can you visit Iceland’s Highlands year-round? 

No, Iceland’s Highland roads are only open from mid-June to early September, depending on weather conditions. These roads are not accessible in winter due to snow and rough terrain. If you're planning a Highlands trip, check road conditions before heading out. 

3. When do puffins and other wildlife migrate to Iceland? 

Puffins arrive in late April and stay until early August, making May to July the best time for puffin watching. Other wildlife, such as whales and Arctic foxes, can be seen throughout the year, but whale watching is best from June to August.