best places to visit in iceland in november

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

7 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In November

July 5, 2021 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   15 Comments

When we visited Iceland In November, we had a completely wonderful time and you can too! In fact, it was totally last-minute trip and we planned the whole thing in 8 days. Of course, we do not recommend this and it was highly stressful and we would not do it again! That being said, Iceland in November is a completely magical time and we are so glad we went. 

Planning your trip to Iceland last minute?

Make sure to book your hotels and tours in Iceland in advance to ensure availability! The longer you wait, the more difficult it gets. Here are my top picks for your trip :

Top Experiences And Tours In Iceland:

• Golden Circle Full Day Tour From Reykjavik (Likely to sell out!)
• Silfra Snorkeling Tour (Includes photos + only small group)
• South Of Iceland Full Day Trip (Our pick!)
• Whale Watching In Reykjavik (On a luxury yacht)
• Northern Lights Bus Tour (Great to go with a local)
• Ice Cave Tour And Glacier Hike (Likely to sell out)

Tickets You MUST book in advance:

• Keflavik > Reykjavik Bus Airport Transfer (Skip the line!)
• Sky Lagoon Entrance Ticket (Includes 7-step spa ritual)
• Blue Lagoon Entry Ticket With Drink (Likely to sell out!)

Top picks for places to stay in Iceland:

• Hotel South Coast (Great central location)
• Grandi Reykjavik (Includes free breakfast)
• Hotel Kria (Close to black sand beach)
• Hotel Skaftafell (Mid-range price)

From seeing glittering glaciers and snow-capped mountains to jet black sand beaches and countless waterfalls, spending November in Iceland is a real treat. With a little research and some planning, you are on your way to having a splendid time during this month in Iceland! Before you  pack your balaclava and start planning your Iceland itinerary, there are a few things you need to know so you can be better prepared for what to expect from Iceland in November. Get a FREE printable “Hidden Gems In Iceland” E-book by joining our private  Iceland Facebook Group  and share your photos and ask for tips and tricks.  

#1. There May Or May Not Be Snow In Iceland In November

One of the most common questions we are asked is if there will be snow in Iceland in November. The answer really depends on where you are going to be visiting! If you want to see the far-flung Westfjords in Iceland, they will usually be buried in snow during November.

If you are looking to visit Reykjavik and the south coast, snow may or may not happen. When we spent November in Iceland, the country was getting an incredibly late winter and there wasn’t any snow for a great majority of our trip. A small dusting finally came near the end around Nov. 20th. We were told by locals that this was pretty unusual, but with all the climate change happening it is really throwing things out of whack.

When we visited Iceland in September it snowed the day we left in pretty much the entire country and that was on around September 16th. It remained that way for the entire winter so if you had planned to visit Iceland in November that year you would 100% be experiencing snow. 

As a rule of thumb, you should expect snow in the Arctic in November, but don’t be surprised if it hasn’t hit when you arrive during your trip. Click HERE for the local weather in Iceland and this should be the website that you always follow. If you are hoping for Iceland to be buried in snow, you may want to wait until further into the winter to visit as November can truly be hit or miss depending on the area and season. 

#2. There Is No Guarantee You Will See The Northern Lights In Iceland In November

Visiting Iceland in November does give you a higher chance of seeing the Northern Lights and this is why many people plan their trips at this time of year! Having a chance to experience the Northern Lights in Iceland is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many people. If you choose to visit Iceland in December through March [or even September-April], there is a great chance you will get to see the Northern Lights. Heck, we even saw the Northern Lights in September so as long as it is dark there is a chance. 

Winter is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland because it stays dark for so long. That being said, we want to warn you in advance that there is no guarantee you will see the Northern Lights in Iceland.

Perhaps it will be cloudy every night of your trip or it may rain or the Northern Lights may simply not be very strong on the days you are traveling to Iceland. At the end of the day, we have been to Iceland many times and have had the worlds worst luck when it comes to seeing the northern lights. We did see them in Iceland in November one day but they were very faint. 

If you are hoping to spot the Northern Lights in Iceland, you are going to need to have a car and be in a dark area on a clear night that the Aurora is forecasted to be strong. Even if you are staying in Reykjavik, you can drive less than 25 minutes outside of the city and be in enough darkness to see the Northern Lights on a lovely Iceland November night. Alternatively, if you don’t want to drive or find a specific spot, you can take a Northern Lights tour .  There are  so many different kinds  to fit every budget and need!

November in Iceland will give you a great chance at seeing the Northern Lights so there is certainly a high possibility and we don’t want to scare you away from heading to the country during the off-season. We simply urge you to go into your winter trip to Iceland with an open mind regarding possible Northern Lights sightings during the month of November [or any time of the year!] 

#3. November Weather In Iceland Really Isn’t All That Frigid

Compared to many places in the United States and Canada [and the world!], November weather in Iceland really isn’t all that bad! The temperatures in Iceland in November range from around 4°C or 40°F to 3°C or 38°F. 

Compared to places such as Minnesota or the Rocky Mountains, Iceland experiences quite pleasant November weather for being an island sitting in the middle of the Arctic! This isn’t to say that Iceland in winter doesn’t get snowstorms like everywhere else, the country just doesn’t see sub-zero temperatures all that often like you may be used to if you are from a really cold place! 

November weather in Iceland is highlighted by a gradual decrease in temperature but it is only a few degrees and you probably won’t notice. This is coming from people who live in Florida, one of the hottest places ever, and it wasn’t even all that cold for us when properly dressed! 

Why is November in Iceland so “warm” comparatively speaking?  Although Iceland is situated in the Arctic, it is located right on the Gulfstream. This warm water keeps Iceland nice and reasonable pretty much all year round!

Some places like Minnesota that are even lower down geographically speaking on the map have much colder temperatures than November in Iceland. If you choose to visit Iceland in November, you can rest assured that the weather is actually pretty great for being so high in the arctic! 

#4. Pack Properly Or Else You Will Be Sorry And Cold

We know, we DID just say that Iceland in November isn’t all that cold. That is compared to comparable destinations in the world. Don’t make a mistake, November weather in Iceland is indeed cold and packing for winter in Iceland should be taken seriously.

You wouldn’t believe the number of people walking around icy waterfalls or snowy beaches wearing Converse or comparable canvas shoes. There are also people walking around in very thin jackets or falling down and getting their bums or hands soaked because their clothing isn’t waterproof. We are honestly kind of shocked at how poor people dress in Iceland! 

The three most important things we invested in and that we highly recommend you consider for packing for November in Iceland was a waterproof and windproof winter jacket , waterproof winter pants, and  waterproof snow boots certified to keep your feet warm on the ground up to -25 degrees.

Want to stand on a glacier in Iceland? No big deal! If you don’t want to shell out a ton of money for new gear, ask around with your friends and family to see if they have any items you can borrow. If your budget for Iceland is tight, we urge you not to skimp on snow boots/shoes and a good jacket. 

If you hope to enjoy Iceland in November it is essential to stay warm and dry. It really isn’t all that hard to do and if you don’t have a good store nearby, you can always order online from Amazon or the individual online shop. Nothing is worse than being wet and cold, whether or not there ends up being snow in Iceland during November. 

We put together these essential articles filled with our personal suggestions and what we actually own for you to peruse when packing for Iceland in November:

#5. Heed All Wind And Weather Warnings During Your Visit

This is a general rule of thumb for any time of year, but it is even more essential for visiting Iceland in November. Why?

Because November is the transition between fall weather and winter weather in Iceland that makes the weather potentially crazier than usual. Again, this should be heeded at all times on any trip to Iceland, even in the spring and summer.

You must simply keep track of the local weather and follow road closure and wind warnings. Wind storms are huge and November in Iceland is no different.

Even if you think you know that the road looks safe, there may be an upcoming windstorm that you aren’t aware of but the local weather officials are. Please heed the wind warnings at all costs. If the roads are potentially icy or slippery as they often are in Iceland in November, you have the potential to be blown clear off the road.

This isn’t meant to scare you, but simply to prepare you so that you can have a safe and enjoyable trip! 

This is the local Iceland Weather Website

#6. There Will Be Limited Daylight Hours In November But You Can Still Have A Great Trip

Visiting Iceland in November means dealing with very limited daylight hours. That is okay! This means that you will be exploring the country in perpetual sunset. We know, it sounds weird and we didn’t really believe it, but it is true! Daylight hours in November in Iceland are quite limited and decrease by 90 minutes every two weeks. 

In the beginning of November in Iceland there is roughly 7 hours and 57 minutes of total daylight hours. By the end of November, there will only be 5 hours and 4 minutes! This means that the sun won’t rise until 10am or later and will set at around 4pm or even earlier during November in Iceland.

When planning your trip, simply take this into consideration! If you want to catch a gorgeous sunrise somewhere but don’t want to wake up early, you can see the sunrise at 10am! That isn’t something you can say every day!

To maximize daylight hours during November in Iceland, we recommend driving when it is dark out so that you can arrive at your destination when the sun rises. For example, if you know you have to drive somewhere that is 2 hours away, start your drive at 8am so you can arrive for sunrise at 10am.

This allows you to maximize your daylight hours in November. Simply drive to/from your destinations in the dark so that you can explore all the best spots with the limited daylight that you have. Don’t worry at all, you will have a totally epic trip! 

#7. Not All Roads Will Be Open In Iceland In November But That Won’t Impact Your Trip

Certain roads such as F roads and H roads [different classes of road] may be closed during November in Iceland. You can check road closures here! Always be sure to check road closures for your trip to Iceland in November so that you can be sure a road is open and safe.

Sometimes, roads in the Westfjords and Eastfjords will already be closed in November [especially in the Westfjords] due to snow. If you plan to be visiting all of the beautiful and popular spots in Iceland all along the Golden Circle and south and east coast, you will usually have no problems during November. 

We recommend sticking to the main roads such as the Ring Road during November in Iceland. Many gravel and dirt roads will be closed but again, that will not impact your trip. The majority of the beautiful sites in Iceland that are popular and that you want to see are right off the Ring Road.

They are easily accessible, even if it does happen to snow and you can see many of them from the main road! This is great news because it means you have safe and easy access to the most stunning locations and if a road is closed you won’t feel all that hampered. Just make sure to check for road closures in advance to ensure that there are no weather warnings for any certain area you want to visit! 

What To Pack For Iceland In November

Although we discussed it above for a little, packing for Iceland in November should be done with care. Please don’t skimp when buying new clothes or think that you can get away without investing. Whether you choose to take a road trip, group tour or want to be more adventurous we highly recommend bringing the appropriate clothes. These are some of our tried and true favorite suggestions when traveling to Iceland in November. 

• A balaclava. Balaclavas are the perfect cold-weather accessory because they don’t take up a lot of space yet they keep you super warm! Balacla v as will not be swept away by the winds during Iceland in November and stay snug around your neck. Make sure to throw one in your backpack or suitcase and thank us later!
• Filtered water bottle.  We swear by our  Bobble Water Bottles and they have seen multiple trips to Iceland including our one in November. If you plan to drink the water in Iceland, you can drink it straight from the tap, but we suggest a filtered water bottle because everyone reacts to different bacteria differently. Plus, they don’t cost all that much! 
• Winter Boots/Waterproof Shoes.  Whatever you do, make sure to pack some  waterproof boots  for Iceland. We highly recommend in investing in winter boots for Iceland in November, as they will be in charge of keeping you dry and warm the whole trip.  We love Columbia brand like these  for winter boots.
• A Quality Winter Jacket.  There are winter jackets for Iceland that are only okay, and then there are good quality jackets  like this one  from Columbia. Like the boots above, we think picking the right winter jacket for Iceland was so important.. We recommend bringing a jacket for Iceland in November that has an omni-tech base layer and a waterproof shell. Along with shoes, we highly recommend investing in a high-quality jacket for this trip if you don’t already have one!
• A Swimsuit.  Yes, believe it or not, you do need to  pack a swimsuit when you are traveling to Iceland in winter! Hot springs in Iceland are warm all year round, so you want to make sure you have a swimsuit so you can take a dip! Hot springs are the perfect way to warm up after a day exploring Iceland in November and are great to do after the sun goes down! 
• Waterproof Gloves.  As you can see, waterproof is a trend for surviving November in Iceland! Make sure that you buy a pair of waterproof gloves or else your hands will be soaked the second you touch something covered in anything wet like potential snow or ice! A solid pair of gloves doesn’t have to break the bank, just make sure they are waterproof!
• Fleece-Lined Leggings.  We do not care if you are male or female, you need to pack a pair of fleece-lined leggings for Iceland. We recommend this pair for women  and  this pair for men . They are a lifesaver and will keep your legs insulated from the elements that are so common during Iceland in winter. 
• Polarized Sunglasses .  Sunglasses are one of those things you would never think to pack for Iceland, especially during November. This is not the case because the sun is very strong during November in Iceland which can be very harmful to your eyes. Protect your eyes by packing sunglasses l ike these unisex ones!  Polarized sunglasses add an additional layer of protection that normal sunglasses do not offer.
• Knit Hat.  Make sure to  pac k a knit hat for your trip to Iceland in November. Bonus points if the hat is made out of wool! This isn’t the time to be fashionable, so pick a functional and affordable hat . Packing for Iceland in November is meant to keep you warm, so don’t pick something flimsy!

We hope you truly enjoy your trip to Iceland in November! Iceland is one of our favorite places on this earth and it is truly a stunning and special place. With the proper planning and precautions, you can be on your way to having a wonderful trip.

There are plenty of things to do in Iceland in November even with limited daylight and chilly weather. We know you are going to love this country as much as we do! We are more than happy to answer as many questions as we can in the comments! Just please don’t be afraid to ask! 

Reader Interactions

October 5, 2021 at 3:30 am

This was so extremely helpful, thank you for taking the time to write this out! I am a solo traveler going to Iceland end of November for 9 days. I was unaware of the lack of day light!! Any suggestions on what I can do at night that is safe? I want to climb a glacier, explore an ice cave, see waterfalls etc. I want to adventure but dont know how to do that at night! Any recommendations would be appreciated!! Thank you 🙂

October 6, 2021 at 6:19 pm

Hello Amber! You will be able to do Ice caves during the day. We have posts here: https://icelandtrippers.com/iceland-glacier-tour/

For waterfalls, sure, you can visit at night, but they aren’t really lit! The best thing to do at night is to search for the nothern lights here is our guide on that! https://icelandtrippers.com/northern-lights-in-iceland/

You can also do other things at night such as the blue lagoon! https://icelandtrippers.com/blue-lagoon-iceland/

October 12, 2021 at 7:28 am

Hello, this was extremely helpful. I am planning my trip to Iceland somewhere in the nov of 2021. Would it be a good time to experience the winter of Iceland? As in waterfalls with snow around them, snowcapped mountains , glacier hiking , kind of like the GOT feels, along with the Northern Lights. I feel that there won’t be enough snow during end of November as compared to Feb, when I can experience these things better? As the trip to Iceland is really expensive, I want to plan it the possible way. could you please help me out

October 14, 2021 at 1:53 am

November is hit or miss. It is still very nice and many places will have snow, but in Feb, it will be pretty much 100% snow. in November you can do glacier hiking, there will be snow on mountains, and northern lights. but in Feb the whole country is white. if i had to pick, i would choose november so you can see both white and the regular landscape

January 10, 2022 at 6:10 pm

Such a great post! I had the good fortune of going to Iceland last September and am considering a return trip this November. Even having been once before I still felt like I learned a lot from this post – Thank You!! Hoping you can help with a question. Seeing all the waterfalls was a true highlight and I have been wondering how that experience might be in November. Are the photos you’ve shared in this post all from November? Do you have experience visiting different waterfalls in November? I suppose you can’t get as close but any other thoughts? Again, thank you for sharing your experience.

June 24, 2022 at 3:44 am

Wonderful tips and suggestions. With the limited daylight can the waterfalls and beaches be visited on south coast? There are a lot of places to visit on south coast but i am worried about the limited daylight. Thank you.

July 16, 2022 at 9:10 pm

Yes!!! I have gone to Iceland in november and it was perfectly fine. We did the whole south coast up to Hofn. There is limited daylight yes, but you still have a few good hours and the south coast from Hella to Vik is about 1.5 hours driving with no stops and lots of things to see!

July 19, 2022 at 2:02 pm

Is a napapijri jacket good?

September 5, 2022 at 2:10 pm

We are planning to go to Iceland the 1st week in November for 7 days. We Will be hiring a car. Would you recommend not doing the whole ring road, there is so much information online I am getting confused at what to do, to make the most of our adventures.

Brilliant blog though.

September 6, 2022 at 5:34 pm

I highly recommend doing the south coast, you won’t regret it! You can skip Westman Islands if you want for the sake of saving time [but it is quite awesome!] but otherwise, I would do this itinerary! https://icelandtrippers.com/7-days-in-iceland/

September 9, 2022 at 11:41 pm

This very helpful. Any advice (or warning lol) on traveling with kids?

September 14, 2022 at 7:34 pm

Get wellies for all of them [aka rain boots] Amazon has plenty!!! So the kids can stay dry on the feet. Don’t try and do the whole ring road it is a LOT of driving. Hit the local swimming pools, open all year round, the best many hot tubs for adults, often slides and kiddie areas for children! Enjoy! https://icelandtrippers.com/iceland-with-kids/

October 6, 2022 at 2:55 am

Hi! Thanks so much for all the info you give, it’s very informative. We’re traveling to Iceland the second week of November ! Do you suggest we book ice cave tours in advance or can we like show up there and book a tour ?

January 28, 2023 at 2:21 am

We are planning a trip to lceland this November. Should all trips be prebooked? My husband would love to snorkel between the continents at Silfra. I know it is extremely cold but what company is best for hin to go with if he can do this in November?

January 31, 2023 at 9:28 pm

Hello Chris!! It just depends on your style of travel! When I go, I book the first 1-2 airbnbs, and then wing it from there, but I am very fluid with my travel style. Sometimes I don’t book an Airbnb until the night before. If your husband has a snorkeling tour on his bucket list, I would consider booking that, but it won’t be that busy in November, so you should be okay!! Here are our favorite tours https://icelandtrippers.com/best-silfra-snorkeling-tours/

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Iceland in November: Everything You Need to Know for Your Trip

Iceland is a beautiful country to visit year round and no matter when you go, you’re sure to have a unique and incredible experience. Visiting Iceland in November, at the start of the winter season, is a great time to explore the country and partake in a variety of activities. You can still do many of Iceland’s summer favorites, while also being able to take advantage of the beginning of the winter experiences (like the Northern Lights). Keep reading for everything you need to know about visiting Iceland in November! 

Visiting Iceland in November: Key Facts and Information

• During the month of November, the daylight hours change rapidly in Iceland. At the beginning of the month, you have up to 8 hours of daylight (9am-5pm). By the end of the month, however, the sun doesn’t rise until after 10am and sets before 4pm. 
• Iceland in November is certainly cold, but it’s not the coldest month. In November there are often rainy days and, with the added wind, it can feel quite chilly. The average temperature is around 34-40 °F (1-4 °C), so bring layers! 
• The weather in Iceland is unpredictable and many days it will go from sunny, to rainy, to windy, to snowy in just a few minutes. Be prepared for rain and bring waterproof clothing . 
• November is usually an excellent time to see Northern Lights in Iceland! That being said, during my November trip I didn’t see any, so it can’t be guaranteed. The longer your trip, the better chance you have of seeing them.

Itinerary for Iceland in November

When visiting Iceland in November, I recommend at least a 4 day trip. During the summer in Iceland, you can pack a ton into each day, as there’s so many hours of daylight. In the winter, however, there are very few daylight hours so, often, your outdoor activity hours are far fewer. 

With four days in Iceland you’ll be able to visit the Blue Lagoon, explore Reykjavik, drive the famous Golden Circle and see the waterfalls in Southern Iceland. If you want to drive the Ring Road around the entire country, you’ll need to add at least 10 more days to your itinerary. 

Itinerary for 4 Days in Iceland in November

Blue lagoon and reykjavik: day 1.

• Be sure to book timed tickets in advance. 

• The Laundromat Cafe
• 101 Reykjavik Street Food

Tip: Downtown Reykjavik is super walkable. Find somewhere to park your car and leave it there until tomorrow. If your hotel doesn’t have parking, Hallgrímskirkja Church has free-parking, but spots aren’t always available.

• Reykjavik Walking Tour With a Viking
• Walking Tour of Reykjavik City
• Funky History Walking Tour with Local Storyteller

• Tapas Barinn  (Spanish style tapas with an Icelandic influence)
• Bastard Brew & Food (craft beer and upscale pub food)
• Brass Kitchen & Bar (Icelandic food and great desserts)
• Reykjavik Fish (casual fish and chips, the best in the city!)
• Reykjavik Chips (fast food style, great fries!)
• Exeter Hotel
• Hotel Ódinsvé

Golden Circle: Day 2

• The cinnamon rolls are incredible but you can’t go wrong with anything!
• There isn’t really any seating, so this breakfast will be enjoyed on the street or in the car.

• Þórufoss Waterfall: a “secret” waterfall located near Thingvellir National Park – also a filming site for Game of Thrones. 
• Thingvellir National Park: here you can walk (or scuba dive) between continental plates and see the site of Iceland’s first Parliament. 
• Strokkur: this impressive geyser erupts every 8-10 minutes and is so fun to see! The geyser is surrounded by geothermal pools – but you can’t swim in them. 
• Gullfoss Waterfall: this giant, impressive  waterfall is one of the most visited in all of Iceland. 
• It’s also a more affordable option than the Blue Lagoon. 
• Fridheimar : Fridheimar one of my favorite places to eat in Iceland. Visiting this tomato greenhouse for lunch is always a highlight of my trips. Be sure to make a reservation. 
• Kerid Crater : a volcanic crater lake with blueish green water. You can walk around the perimeter (less than a mile) and take in the views. 

Golden Circle Route

Note: Foss in Icelandic means waterfall: Gull foss , Skoga foss , Seljalands foss . If you see a word ending in “foss,” or see it on a road sign, there’s likely a waterfall nearby!

• This is one of the best places to stay to see the Northern Lights in Iceland. 
• There’s a relaxing thermal pool on site.
• This hotel is pretty isolated, so the only nearby restaurant is the one at the hotel.

Southern Iceland: Day 3

• Grab breakfast at the hotel and prepare for a day of waterfalls and black sand beaches! 
• You can walk behind Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi is located in a cave nearby.
• There’s a small cafe, restrooms and a gift shop on site.

• Skógafoss has a viewing platform at the top that offers amazing views. 
• The stairs to the top are about a 7-10 minute climb.

• This beach has other-wordly rock formations and was a filming location for Game of Thrones.
• Be very careful at this beach, the waves and tides are extremely strong.  

• If you have time, also check out their lava show .  
• Walk along the Black Sand Beach in Vik. 
• Take in the views from the Vík i Myrdal Church.

• Take a quick walk/hike here for impressive glacier views. 

• On the drive back you’ll likely see some places to pull over and say hi to Icelandic ponies. 

Reykjavik: Day 4

• Emilie and the Cool Kids

• There are great, local shops all around the downtown area, especially on Laugavegur street. 
• This is a great place to do some holiday shopping!
• Explore the interior and then head to the bell tower for epic city views. 

• For those who want a relaxing day in Reykjavik, check out the new Sky Lagoon and spend the day pampering yourself. 
• Reykjavik Food Walk
• Reykjavik Food Lovers Tour
• Beer and Food Tasting Tour in Reykjavík
• This is another great place to see the Northern Lights! 
• Have dinner at Max’s restaurant at the Northern Lights Inn. 
• Sleep well, hopefully see the Northern Lights, and head to the airport in the morning. 

Note for Reykjavik: If you’re feeling adventurous, a volcano hike is so much fun and such a unique experience. These hikes are usually around 6 hours (total time) and are absolutely worth doing. 

Volcano hikes near Reykjavik:

• Small Group Volcano Hike with a Geologist
• Hike to Fagradalsfjall Volcano – Private Tour
• Fagradalsfjall – Entire Day Volcano Tour & Sightseeing

Often, travelers visit Iceland as a stopover for a day or two on their way to mainland Europe. Even in November with limited daylight, you’ll still be able to see great highlights in just a couple days. Check out my guide for how to spend two days in Iceland for a trip itinerary!

Driving in Iceland in November

When planning a trip to Iceland, at any time of year, one of my biggest tips is to rent a car. 

While it is possible to get a taxi into Reykjavik, walk around the city, and take only guided tours, having a car provides so much more flexibility and will allow you to really make the most of your trip. 

While renting a car is an added expense, and gas is expensive, so are taxis and guided day-long tours. 

In the winter, once it starts to snow, you’ll want to rent a 4-wheel drive car. It’s a safer and more reliable option. 

The good news is, driving in Iceland is relatively easy. Most roads are just two lanes and there is rarely a lot of traffic, besides in the center of Reykjavik and surrounding area.

Tips for driving and renting a car in Iceland

Automatic vs Manual Car

• When renting a car, if you don’t know how to drive a manual, make sure you reserve an automatic. Unlike in the US, there are a ton of manual cars  in Iceland, so make sure you select the type of car you’d like to drive. Automatics are often, unfortunately, more expensive. 

Gas vs Diesel 

• In Iceland, you’ll find that many vehicles use diesel, no matter their size. This isn’t a problem, just be sure you know if your car takes gas or diesel so you don’t  accidentally put the wrong fuel in when filling up. 

Cost of Gas 

• Gas is a major expense when visiting iceland. Gas prices are usually somewhere between $7-9 a gallon, with diesel being slightly less. A small Honda with a 12 gallon tank, for example, will be around $100 to fill up. 

What side of the road do they drive on in Iceland?

• In Iceland you drive on the right side of the road and pass on the left, like in the USA.  

Can I drive in Iceland with a US license?

• Yes, if you’re from the US, Europe or Canada you can use your license without needing an international driver’s license. If you’re from a country outside of these regions, there may be additional documents needed. 

Packing for Iceland in November

When packing for Iceland any time of year, layers are your best friend. You’ll want sweaters , long sleeves , hats , gloves and a scarf . A warm, waterproof jacket is also necessary – the weather goes from snow, to rain, to wind very quickly. 

If you’re partaking in any adventurous outdoor activities, a glacier hike, a volcano hike, snowmachining, etc. you’ll also want waterproof snow pants . However, if you’re following the itinerary I shared above, just regular jeans/pants are fine. 

For shoes, warm, waterproof boots will be your go-to. Those are the only shoes I brought for my November trip and they were really all I needed.

Q&A: Visiting Iceland in November

Do I need to bring cash/where do I exchange money?

• Something I love about Iceland is that everywhere (in my experience) takes credit cards. I’ve never needed cash when traveling in Iceland, even for the smallest purchases. While you can exchange money at the airport, or take cash out of ATMs, it’s not necessary. 

Is it expensive to visit Iceland?

• Yes and no. The short answer is that Iceland is not a super budget-friendly destination. Eating out is extremely expensive, as is gas and many guided tours. 
• On the other hand, grocery shopping for breakfast and lunch items and making your coffee at the hotel/AirBnb will save you money. There are also affordable hotels and AirBnbs across most of Iceland, especially in Reykjavik. 

Can you drink the water in Iceland?

• Yes! Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the tap water is very safe to drink. 

What is the food like in Iceland ?

• Many meals in Iceland are heavily meat-based. Due to the climate, there are not many vegetable farms (besides greenhouses), so most produce is imported. Dairy products, like yogurt, ice cream and cheese are often locally produced and very delicious. 

Is Uber available in Iceland?

• No, but there are taxis. 

Is tipping customary in Iceland?

• No, in Iceland servers, and those in the service industry, are paid a livable wage and tipping is not customary or expected. I’ve had tips returned to me at restaurants and also had a waiter decline when I tried to leave a tip. This, of course, won’t be the situation every time and if you’d like to leave a tip for great service, in most instances, I’m sure it’s appreciated. 

What type of adapter do you need for Iceland?

• Iceland uses the same standard Europlug socket as most of Europe, the one with two round prongs. The standard voltage is 230V, which is higher than the 120V in the US. I use this universal adapter and it works great!

November is a great time of year to visit Iceland if you’re interested in cold-weather activities and maybe even seeing the Northern Lights! I hope you found this guide for Iceland in November to be helpful. If you have any questions, want more information, or have anything to add to this post let me know in the comments.

Be sure to also follow us on social media for tons of travel inspiration and mini-guides: @twosistersabroad .

More Iceland Guides for Your Trip

• Best Places in Iceland to Visit on Your Trip
• Itinerary for a Perfect Weekend in Iceland
• 18 Essential Tips for Planning an Amazing First Trip to Iceland

Note:  This post includes affiliate links. Read our disclosure  here .

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What a beautiful place to visit! When you show your adventures, it makes me want to go. Your creative style in your Blog is the best!

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Omg I love it, it’s so gorgeous and I love how you spend the time to point out great places to stop. I’m so jealous of your travels and will keep enjoying your future blogs ❤️ 💙 💜

Thank you so much, Chris! I’m so happy that you enjoy the posts, thank you for reading!

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Visiting Iceland in November – what to know

Are you thinking of planning a trip to Iceland in November? Iceland is a fantastic year-round destination, but one of my favourite times to visit is in November.

You’ll have a very different experience in Iceland depending on the time of year you visit. And there’s not necessarily a good or bad time to visit Iceland .

But it’s useful to understand the nuances of each season in Iceland, so you know what you’re in for.

I’d recommend first deciding on the type of trip you want, as this will determine the best time of year for you.

Do you want endless hours of daylight, drier weather and warmer temperatures? Or would you prefer the snowy landscapes and gorgeous sunsets of the winter months?

If you’re wondering whether to visit Iceland in November – or you’ve already booked your trip – I’ve previously spent November in Iceland and will share everything you need to know.

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

Is November a good time to visit Iceland?

In short, yes! November is a fantastic time to visit Iceland, especially if you’re after stunning snowy vistas and hours of ‘golden hour’ light.

Although there are less daylight hours, all day there was a gorgeous golden glow as the sun is so low in the sky – perfect for those of us into photography!

Plus, there are plenty of fun and unique places to visit and things to do during November.

From more relaxing activities, such as visiting the Blue Lagoon , to more thrilling adventures, such as caving and snowmobiling.

You’re also in with a great chance of seeing the Northern Lights in November – I was lucky enough to see them on my visit.

Of course there’s never a guarantee that you’ll see the magical green lights leaping across the sky. But it’s a big attraction for visitors to Iceland in the winter months.

What is the Iceland weather like in November?

The weather in Iceland throughout November is exactly what you’d expect from Iceland in the winter. It’s cold and icy.

This may not appeal to everyone but if you can stand the chilly outdoors then you can enjoy the amazing benefits of Iceland in November. 

The average temperature in November is around 1°C (34°F). Add to that an arctic breeze and it can feel well below freezing.

There’s no getting around the fact that Iceland is really cold in November. But it needn’t be an issue. Trust me, if I can survive the cold then anyone can!

As long as you come prepared with appropriate thermals and clothing, you’ll be just fine.

How many daylight hours are there in Iceland in November?

This is an important point to note, as it can have a big effect on your itinerary. Iceland’s daylight hours are considerably shorter in the winter months.

These hours decrease pretty rapidly throughout November. In early November there are up to eight hours of daylight. By the end of the month, there are only about five hours.

Less daylight hours does give you less time to explore. You need to cram more into the day and ensure careful planning of your itinerary.

If you’re worried about the lower number of daylight hours, it may be best to visit in early November.

However, one of the great advantages of visiting Iceland in late November is that you get a beautiful ‘golden hour’ glow for the whole five hours.

As the sun never gets particularly high in the sky, the result is a constant sunrise / sunset all day. It’s absolutely beautiful and makes for the best photos. In fact, it’s arguably my favourite thing about visiting Iceland in November.

What clothing to wear when visiting Iceland in November?

As I mentioned, Iceland is excruciatingly cold in November. It therefore follows that good thermals and a very warm coat are compulsory items on your packing list.

I’d recommend bringing lots of layers, thick socks and waterproof outer layers. In terms of footwear, good hiking boots or snow boots are a must.

Don’t even think about wearing lightweight trainers! Warmth and waterproof are key here. 

Iceland in November: packing list

For a concise list, here are my suggestions of what clothing to pack for a November trip to Iceland:

• Thermal base layers – top and bottom
• Fleeces & jumpers – layer with warm fleeces and jumpers
• Warm, waterproof coat – a ski jacket is a great option
• Good pair of gloves – bring glove liners too for extra warmth
• Thermal socks – keep your feet warm and toasty
• Wooly hat – any warm hat that keeps your head and ears insulated
• Scarf – useful for keeping your neck protected from the chilly winds
• Hiking boots or snow boots – there will be snow and ice to contend with

Things to do in Iceland in November

I was seriously impressed by the breadth of things to do in Iceland in November.

If you’re lucky to have sunny weather, then everywhere you visit is made even more beautiful by the sun’s golden glow reflecting off the snow and ice.

Here are my top picks for what to see in Iceland in November:

1. Tour the Golden Circle

Top tours to book:

• From Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Guided Trip
• Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Tour with Kerid Crater
• From Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Glacier Snowmobiling

The Golden Circle crops up a lot when researching a trip to Iceland. It’s a popular itinerary point because it’s so accessible from Reykjavik.

The Golden Circle is situated in southwest Iceland and consists of three locations: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss waterfall.

I was blown away by the beauty of this region, and November is a perfect time to visit the Golden Circle. The National Park will be flooded with golden sunlight, reflecting off the crystal clear iced over lakes.

Watch the geysers explode with the sun shining through the steam. Finally, gape at the scale of Gullfoss waterfall and, if you’re lucky with the weather like we were, spot the rainbows rising out of the water.

2. Explore the many caves

• South Iceland: Vatnajökull Glacier Blue Ice Cave Tour
• Húsafell: Into the Glacier Ice Cave Tour
• Skaftafell: Ice Cave Tour and Glacier Hike

There are caves of all shapes and sizes dotted across Iceland. Formed by numerous volcanic eruptions, the lava caves offer a hidden underworld of geological history.

You’ve probably seen pictures of the beautiful glacier caves in Iceland. These are the most popular caves due to their unique beauty.

Enter a world of bright blue walls and immense ice sculptures. Armed with crampons, a helmet, and a headtorch, wander around the caves with a guide and learn about their formation.

There are various caves available to explore – I’d recommend the Thrihnukagigur Cave ,  Raufarholshellir Cave , Gjabakkahellir Cave and Katla Ice Cave .

3. Relax at the Blue Lagoon

• From Reykjavik: Blue Lagoon Admission with Transfers
• From Reykjavík: Volcanoes and Blue Lagoon Day Trip
• Blue Lagoon: Retreat Spa Experience & Private Changing Suite

There are numerous geothermal hot springs across Iceland. One of the most well-known is the Blue Lagoon just outside Reykjavik.

The mineral-rich water offers numerous health benefits, from improving circulation to soothing skin conditions.

I had the most unforgettable day relaxing in the lagoon and taking in the beautiful surroundings.

Indulge in a free face mask, grab a drink from the swim-up bar, and get a neck massage from the powerful waterfall.

Be sure to check out my guide to visiting the Blue Lagoon before you go.

Insider travel tip: As it’s such a popular tourist spot, the downside is that it gets very busy. For a quieter option, I’d recommend trying the Secret Lagoon or Krauma .

4. Go snowmobiling

• Vik: Mýrdalsjökull Snowmobile Adventure
• From Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Glacier Snowmobile Tour

If you’re an adventure seeker like me, snowmobiling is an absolute must for your November Iceland itinerary.

Glide through the snowfields and soak up the captivating landscapes. You can even go snowmobiling over active volcanoes – an experience that is unique to Iceland.

If you’re a qualified driver and adult then you can drive the snowmobile yourself. Zoom over Iceland’s glaciers for a truly exhilarating experience.

5. Walk along the black beaches

• From Reykjavik: South of Iceland Full-Day Trip
• Iceland: Full-Day South Coast, Black Beach & Waterfalls Tour
• From Reykjavik: South Coast Tour & DC-3 Plane Wreck

There are a number of famous black beaches in Iceland . Seeing the waves lap up against the black sand while the sun sets in the background is a truly mesmersing experience and one I won’t forget in a hurry.

Many of the black sand beaches are located along the south coast of Iceland, so they are easily accessible.

Reynisfjara is probably the most popular black sand beach in Iceland. Diamond Beach is adorned with crystal clear glacier pieces.

While Solheimasandur is home to the recognisable plane wreck.

6. Try whale watching

• Húsavík: Whale Watching Tour with Guide
• Árskógssandur: Whale-Watching Boat Trip
• Húsavík: Big Whales and Puffin Island Speedboat Tour

Iceland is generally considered to be one of Europe’s top whale-watching destinations.

There is something incredibly special about watching the large majestic whales splash around in front of your eyes. 

November is the end of the whale watching season, so you’ll be able to find a good tour. However, it’s worth bearing in mind that the trip will be very cold and wet, so dress appropriately.

Personally I suffer from terrible sea sickness, so it may be one you want to avoid if you’re the same as me!

7. Go surfing (yes, really)

I’m sure this isn’t the first activity that springs to mind when you think of Iceland in November.

But there is a growing community of surfers in Iceland and November is the best month to do this thrill-seeking water sport. November sees wind speeds picking up, along with the waves. 

Although it is possible for newcomers to surf in Iceland, it’s more suited to experienced surfers. The one downside is that it’s pretty chilly. So thick wetsuits, hoods and gloves are a must!

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Is November a good time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

November is a great time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland. Given the limited daylight hours and long nights, there are plenty of opportunities to witness the majestic display.

It does take a good degree of luck though, so there is never a guarantee of seeing the Northern Lights.

I therefore don’t recommend planning your trip around seeing them. Going on a tour with a guide can increase your chances of seeing them, but you don’t need to go on a tour.

Simply stay on the lookout throughout the evening, particularly if there are clear skies. One of the hotels I stayed at asked if we wanted to be woken up during the night if they made an appearance – this is how I ended up seeing them.

Where to stay in Iceland in November

There are a number of unforgettable hotels across Iceland, offering impeccable Scandi design and luxury amenities.

Read my guide to the best luxury hotels in Iceland – or discover my top picks:

1. The Retreat at Blue Lagoon

Nestled amidst Iceland’s volcanic landscape, The Retreat at Blue Lagoon boasts a Nordic-inspired restaurant, a state-of-the-art wellness center, and panoramic views.

If you’re seeking a sanctuary from life’s hustle, The Retreat Hotel offers a serene escape within one of the planet’s most mesmerising natural wonders.

From your chic room, indulge in views of the tranquil blue lagoon waters. At Moss restaurant , savour delectable meals with a backdrop of majestic mountains.

The Retreat seamlessly combines Michelin-starred cuisine, exclusive access to the Retreat Spa and Blue Lagoon , and sophisticated lodgings with unmatched vistas.

2. UMI Hotel

Situated about 100 miles from Reykjavik in southern Iceland, UMI Hotel is an unforgettable four-star hotel.

Its modern, understated architectural design contrasts beautifully with the volcanic mountain backdrop, making it a contemporary gem in the midst of nature.

On one side, the hotel is flanked by craggy granite ridges. On the other, the iconic dark sands that are synonymous with Iceland’s southern coast beckon.

The hotel offers a view of a frosty panorama, from cascading glacial falls and snow-capped peaks to the charming presence of local puffins.

With only 28 rooms, I love that this family-operated establishment exudes warmth and cosiness.

The rooms, adorned with a sleek design, are accentuated with elements of hygge — featuring natural wood finishes and touch-inviting fabrics.

At UMI Hotel’s restaurant, guests can savour traditional Icelandic delicacies. Later, unwind at the bar, enjoying a drink and a view of the brilliant night sky.

3. The Reykjavik EDITION

Nestled in the vibrant pulse of Iceland’s capital, The Reykjavik EDITION redefines luxury hospitality.

As an urban oasis, it marries contemporary design with the city’s rich cultural heritage, offering guests a perfect blend of style and substance.

Its architecture and interiors reflect the pristine and ethereal beauty of the Icelandic landscape, while still echoing the cosmopolitan spirit of Reykjavik.

With world-class amenities, each room offers unparalleled comfort, blending minimalist design with cosy warmth, inspired by the Icelandic concept of ‘hygge’.

The in-house Tides restaurant tantalises with authentic Icelandic flavours, with an alfresco option that offers unforgettable views of the waterfront and city.

All in all, November is a wonderful time of year to visit Iceland. As long as you’re prepared for the cold, there is plenty to see and do.

If you ahve any questions or recommendations for visiting Iceland in November, let me know in the comments or get in touch on social media .

Discover more Iceland content to help you plan your trip:

• Iceland travel guide
• Guide to visiting the Blue Lagoon
• Beautiful black beaches of Iceland
• Incredible luxury hotels in Iceland
• 7 amazing Michelin restaurants in Iceland

Jessie is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

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• Sep 15, 2023

Guide to Iceland in November: Things to do in Iceland in November

Want to have all of the festive feels in our Icelandic winter wonderland without having to pay an arm and a leg for it? Well, then visiting Iceland in November might be your go-to. As a shoulder month, November has many perks for those visiting the island.

In this article, we tell you everything you need to know about the weather, what to pack, and all the things there are to do and see on the island during this time. We also give you some insights into all the pros and cons of the month to help you decide whether planning a trip to Iceland in November will suit you, your requirements, and what you have on that Icelandic bucket list of yours.

Is November a Good Time to Visit?

As a pre-winter shoulder month, November comes with a few added benefits, but that’s not to say that it’ll necessarily be the right fit for you. Below you will find an overview of some of the biggest pros and cons of visiting Iceland in November to help you make your decision:

If you’re not one for crowds, November is a great time to visit Iceland. It doesn’t fall into our peak summer season and also falls shy of the festive crowds flocking to the island.

Without any peak season crowds, you also miss out on those pesky peak season prices that can quickly gobble up a vacay budget.

Dwindling daylight hours and the weather conditions make it the perfect time to spot the Northern Lights, yet you still have enough daylight hours to take on a pretty extensive trip itinerary.

A visit in late November means that you can experience everything the festive season here on the island brings but without any of the overcrowded and overpriced pitfalls of the season.

Iceland looks like a winter wonderland for good reason, and you will need to come prepared for everything from cold temperatures and snow to strong winds and ice.

November is not the time to have a fixed trip itinerary. The weather conditions and sudden road closures may force you to change your plans.

As you can guess, the weather conditions make driving a bit challenging, and you need to think about being snowed in, not slipping on icy patches on the road, and dealing with winds that can sometimes feel like they want to drive your vehicle for you. There are also certain roads and routes such as the F-roads in Iceland that are kept closed throughout the colder months of the year.

Whilst you’ll still have enough daylight hours for an adventure-filled trip itinerary, they won’t be near enough to experience another famous natural phenomenon here on the island; the Midnight Sun.

Driving in Iceland in November

As we already touched on, driving in Iceland in November can become tricky. The overall weather conditions, as well as some pretty harsh weather elements such as snow and winds over 25 kilometers an hour, are just a few things you’ll need to consider before heading out.

It is because of this that we highly recommend that you rent a 4x4 vehicle for your trip and ensure that you have the accessories and gear, such as snow tires, to rise to any potential seasonal challenges. You’ll also need to have a chat with your rental agent to ensure that you have sufficient rental car insurance to cover any additional seasonal risks, such as Sand and Ash Protection.

When planning a road trip on the island, you’ll also need to be well aware of the fact that roads such as the F-roads will be closed, and regions such as the Highlands and the Westfjords will have many road closures, making exploring these areas very difficult. So, if visiting the Highlands and the Westfjords are top priorities on your Iceland trip, we suggest that you reschedule for the warmer months.

The Weather in Iceland in November

It may be cold, but we’ve not quite hit those extreme winter lows here on the island. The temperature in Iceland in November ranges between 1 and 8 degrees Celsius and averages around 4 degrees Celsius. You can look forward to about 8 hours of daylight each day, but by the end of the month, you’ll have just 5 hours to work with.

Whilst you won’t be caught in a raging blizzard when visiting Iceland in November, you are more than likely to encounter snow at one stage during your trip. The same goes for rain. Those legendary Icelandic winds are also revving up for the winter season and quickly picking up speed. They clock in at an average of around 30 kilometers an hour in November.

What to Pack and Wear in Iceland in November

It can be tempting to try and pack your entire wardrobe when visiting a country called Iceland that’s well on its way towards its winter season, but this is completely unnecessary. Simply ensure that you have enough t-shirts and long-sleeve shirts to layer over each other. Bring your thermal undies and a long winter coat.

And remember to bring waterproof clothing and gear such as a raincoat, jacket, pants, and hiking boots (this is essential not just for rainy days but when visiting the Icelandic waterfalls and hot springs). Also, remember to pack your sunglasses and sunscreen – it may be cold, but we still have sun, and when it starts glaring on wet or icy patches, you’re going to feel it.

The Best Things to Do in Iceland in November

Things may be cooling down on the weather side, but things are heating up with exclusive winter-season attractions and activities. Here are a few things to add to your trip itinerary:

Explore the Ice Caves

This is one of our seasonal exclusive activities since most ice caves in Iceland are kept closed during the warmer months for safety reasons. November is the month they finally start opening again, and you can explore these glossy blue caverns. It can only be done via guided tour, though, so remember to book your spot.

Without a doubt, this is one of the best things to do in Iceland in november.

This is another much-loved seasonal exclusive activity. Take on the various slopes across the country, irrespective of your age or experience level, or become part of the audience at one of our local or international skiing competitions or events.

Visit the Museums

In a country that has museums such as the Icelandic Phallological Museum , the Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft , and the Icelandic Sea Monster Museum , you definitely don’t want to miss out on visiting these interesting places.

Go Snorkeling or Diving (yes, you can still do that)

At the Silfra Fissure, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates push apart, you can now go snorkeling or diving in the gap filled with glacial water. This means that you can literally float between two continents! Just take note that if you want to opt for diving the Silfra, you’ll need a valid diving license and sufficient experience.

Live Your Best Viking Life

Iceland is proud of its Viking heritage, and you’ll find plenty of places here on the island where you can live your best Viking life, whether it’s sailing on an authentic Viking ship, getting dressed up and having your Viking portrait taken, or dining at a feast with your fellow Vikings in an authentic Viking Village .

Admire Some of Our Architectural Highlights

Iceland is a historically-rich country, and Icelanders are one of the most creative nations on the planet. So, it comes as no surprise that the island has some pretty impressive architectural works. If you want to admire some of our architectural highlights during your trip, don’t miss out on Hallgrimskirkja , Harpa Concert Hall , and The Nordic House .

Check Out Our Waterfalls

Well, maybe not all of them because we have more than 10 000 here on the island! But there are a few, such as Dettifoss (the second most powerful waterfall in Europe!), Seljalandsfoss, and Glymur, that are not to be missed.

Hit Laugavegur

Laugavegur Street is our major shopping street in the capital city of Reykjavik, and this is where your credit card can really take a pounding. You can find everything from clothes and home décor items to traditional Icelandic souvenirs and outdoor gear. You can also take breaks in between your shopping spree at one of the local restaurants and cafes.

Relax in a Hot Spring

Whether you opt to enjoy one of our natural hot springs in its original settings or spend the day at one of our geothermal pools utilizing some of our natural hot spring water – you are in for a treat. Except for the fact that it guarantees a relaxing soak, the waters have also been proven to have healing properties.

To be in a hot spring while it's cold is one of the best experiences you can feel. So this is the reason why relaxing in a hot spring is one of the best things to do in Iceland in November.

Ride on the Back of a Fluffy Icelandic Horse

Exploring the country on horseback here on the island is an incredibly unique experience since you’ll be doing it on the back of the island’s own breed of horse called the Icelandic Horse . They are known for their pony-like stature, friendly nature, and extra gait called the tölt. And when you visit in November, they will start to sport their thick, fluffy winter coats.

Visit One of Our Black Sand Beaches

This is one of the trademarks of the Land of Fire and Ice. Don’t miss out on visiting long, outstretched beaches of black sand – the remnants of past volcanic eruptions. Black sand beaches in Iceland , such as Reynisfjara and Diamond Beach, are not to be missed, the latter glistening in the sunlight with pieces of ice scattered along its shores.

Try to Take a Snapshot of an Erupting Geyser

Speaking of eruptions, there are some that you really do want to witness up close here on the island. These don’t include red, hot lava, but liters of boiling water being shot meters into the air. We have plenty of active geysers here on the island, one of them being Strokkur, and getting a snap mid-eruption makes for incredible photography, but it’s also tricky and requires perfect timing. #challengeaccepted

Iceland in November; the Best of the Winter Season Without the Below-0 Temperatures

The winter weather is creeping closer, but those super-low temperatures will still be kept at bay when you visit Iceland in November. Yet, the combination of the colder weather conditions along with the amount of daylight hours allows you to indulge in a jam-packed trip itinerary with some seasonal exclusive activities and sights - and at a fraction of the festive prices.

Without any peak season crowds around, it’s also a great time to go on a few local Icelandic tours where you can learn more about the main attractions here on the island and the various regions. November is the best time to travel to Iceland if you want the best of the winter season without the below-0 temperatures.

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Iceland in November: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Winters are challenging in the far north. But, November in Iceland is such a delightful time of the year despite being cold . By November, the country is in full swing; the temperatures dropping, sweeping winds, bouts of sunshine make for a fantastic time to visit Iceland in November. From Northern Lights to ice caves , snowmobiling to Silfra snorkeling , music festivals to Icelandic language holiday and book fairs, there’s an abundance of adventure and culture the country has to offer. 

• Read about Iceland in each month of the year
• Best Season to visit Iceland
• Top Winter Activities in Iceland
• Hiking in Iceland
• Iceland Packing Lists
• Solo Travels in Iceland
• Rent a car in Iceland
• Discover  hidden gems in Iceland.
• Self Driving in Iceland.
• Winter Self Driving in Iceland

Pros and Cons of Visiting Iceland in November

November is perfect to soak in Iceland’s geothermal pools, experience glacier tours, and ice caves. Since Christmas is approaching, the towns are filled with Christmas spirits, lights, and decorations. The snow-covered and the magical Northern Lights, that’s just the biggest reason enough! On the other side, the tours on the highlands could have zero access if the weather turns too bad. The unpredictable weather can cause difficult conditions on the road. Due to lesser sunlight hours, you get less time to explore the wilderness in bright light.

Best Self Drive Activities in Iceland in November

• Crystal Ice Cave
• Skaftafell Glacier Hike & Ice Cave
• Glacier Snowmobile
• Akureyri Whale Watching
• Snorkel Silfra

Spot the Northern Lights

Magical multicolored waves in dark sky.

November in Iceland is one of the best times to spot the elusive aurora borealis or the Northern Lights . In winters the daylight hours are decreased and the solar phenomena that cause the Northern Lights are always going on above, so always keep your eyes skyward to catch a glimpse of this magical phenomenon. If you’re an enthusiastic photographer , you can’t be more excited about the Aurora. You can book a tour with the experienced guides who help you photograph the lights with great advice on camera settings and photography perspective. The Icelanders bring along hot chocolate thermos to keep you toasty. The lights shining in greens, purples, yellows, and whites are a sight to relish.  The Aurora can also be spotted within Reykjavík . The most popular spots in Reykjavik where the lights can be seen are Klambratún Park or Grótta Lighthouse .

• Northern Lights Tours in Iceland
• Northern Lights Guide in Iceland
• Best Northern Lights tours in Iceland
• Northern Lights in Reykjavik
• Best Conditions to see the Northern Lights in Iceland

Iceland’s Golden Circle

To add another level of excitement to your vacation and enjoy the Iceland winter at its best, snowmobiling is an excellent Icelandic adventure. There are several glaciers for snowmobiling; Langjökull , the grazing area Súlumýrar (near Akureyri ), Mýrdalsjökull , and Vatnajökull are some perfect glaciers for snowmobiling. The guide will help you operate the snowmobile accurately and safely. They also provide the necessary gear including helmets, thermal outerwear, and gloves. You must hold a driver’s license to be able to snowmobile in Iceland.

• Snowmobile Tours in Iceland
• Iceland Travel Guide to Snowmobilin
• Best Locations to Snowmobile in Iceland

Iceland is home to the world-famous Silfra Fissure . Silfra Fissure is one of the most popular diving and snorkeling spot in the world for its crystal-clear visibility and the fact that it’s the only place where you can swim between two tectonic plates. The water here is a mild chill above freezing at around 35°F which is comfortable enough to snorkel or dive in for 30-40 minutes. It truly is like a lifetime opportunity and the best part is that the tours are available all around the year.

• Iceland Travel Guide to Snorkeling in Silfra
• Snorkeling & Diving Tours in Iceland

The Blue Lagoon

  Your trip is incomplete without the Blue Lagoon . It is fun to swim in the lagoon in November as the temperature drops but the water here stays hot. You can also visit other popular hot springs as Iceland is the hub of geothermal activity, you’ll find plenty of options.

• Iceland Travel Guide to The Blue Lagoon
• Tours to the Blue Lagoon
• Hot Springs in Iceland

Horse Riding

Horseback riding is so much fun in November. The tours are available across Iceland that offer unique sights. The Icelandic horses are brilliant and reliable. They are mainly suited for severe climates and have a dual insulation coat. The guides provide the necessary gear and help with the basics of horseback riding. You can choose between variety of horse riding tours. 

• Horse Riding Tours in Iceland
• The Icelandic Horse

Dogsledding

Dogsledding is a uniquely exhilarating experience and the perfect activity for November. In Iceland, you’ll find Siberian Huskies or Greenland dogs, the intelligent and strong breeds, pulling the sled. These are so reliable that natives in the snowy deserts still use them for sledding instead of the snowmobiles, thanks to their higher endurance and reliability. Your musher will teach basic commands and techniques that will help steer the sled without hurting the dogs. Depending upon the people riding, 4-5 or 6-10 dogs pull a sled at any given time. The standard age is generally 16 years old, although 12+ children could be allowed this activity but at the discretion of the tour guide.

• Iceland Travel Guide to Dog Sledding
• Dog Sledding Tours in Iceland

An Icelandic Helicopter Tour

Exploring the Culture: Things to Do around Iceland in November

Christmas shopping.

Iceland is packed with Christmas markets and activities. During this time of the year, you can spot so many Santa Claus’ around the streets in the town. The best Icelandic outlets to shop are Geysir, Kron, Farmer’s Market, and more. Geysir is perfect for warm blankets and clothing, shoes, and scented candles. Kron is an artsy place for cool goodies while Farmers Market is perfect for some natural colored clothing. You can check the Icelandic brands Tulipop for the cutest options for kids and little ones.

Iceland serves to all cultural needs; Reykjavik is filled with interesting and quirky museums. The Reykjavik Art Museum is host to arcades of contemporary art. The exhibitions at the National Gallery of Iceland and the Icelandic Phallological Museum are always intriguing.

Explore Café Culture

They say that an average Icelander, the keen coffee drinker, drinks around 9kg coffee beans per year. The coffee culture in Iceland is tailored and community-driven. You could also find free coffee in most local markets. They also have some of the high-quality roasted coffee found in the world. Iceland is filled with top-notch cafes in every street. There are many cozy cafes like Reykjavik Roasters, Te & Kaffi, Kaffitár, and Café Babalú that offer free refills allowing the guests to immerse in the artistic cozy city.

Food and Drink

Iceland is packed with superb bars and restaurants. You can find a lot of world class restaurants in Reykjavik that serves amazing food by top chefs. If you are not up for fine dining, one of the favorite foods in Iceland is the hot dogs. You can find the best hot dogs in the stands in the harbor area.

Best Day Tours to Take in Iceland in November

• Golden Circle & Snowmobile
• Glacier Lagoon, Crystal Ice Cave & Northern Lights
• Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon
• South Coast & Glacier Hike
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula Premium

Events in Iceland during November

Iceland airwaves.

For three musical days during the first weekend of November, Iceland turns into a melody itself- Iceland Airwaves is the country’s biggest and most loved festival. The event attracts many music fans and artists, music journalists and scouts from across the world. David Fricke, the writer of Rolling Stone once mentioned that Iceland Airwaves is “the hippest long weekend on the annual music festival calendar.” Started in 1999, it has come a long way and has now become one of the premier music events known for worldly ambiance and great talent.

Icelandic Airwaves Pro

This is a new addition to the Icelandic Airwaves Festival. Welcoming the music veterans and music lovers alike, the event gives an insider look into the music industry. This is a two-day program organizing panels, presentations, and seminars.

Icelandic Language Day

Icelandic Language Day or Dagur íslenskrar tungu is celebrated on November 16 th . This day is a reminiscence of the importance of the country’s unique language. It signifies preserving the remarkable language in the modern-day world. The holiday has been celebrated since 1996. On this day, Icelanders are encouraged to use Icelandic. Various cultural programs are organized in schools and Harpa Concert Hall, and the people who helped in promoting Icelandic literature are awarded.

Reykjavik Book Fair

Held during November 23-24, this is an annual literary event that honors authors published in Iceland. The fair has been organized since 2011 after Iceland joined the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. The event hosts exhibitions, discussions, readings, and story sessions for children. 

Best Multi Day Tours to Take in Iceland in November

• 2 Days South Coast & Northern Lights
• 3 Days South Coast & Golden Circle
• 4 Day Snæfellsnes, Golden Circle & South Coast
• 5 Days Snæfellsnes, West Golden Circle & South Coast
• 6 Days Around Iceland 

We hope this article about Iceland in November will help you figure out if it’s the best month for you to visit Iceland or not.

We would love to hear your thoughts. Tell us about your tips and tricks to when it comes to planning a trip to Iceland. 

It would be perfect if you let us know about your favorite locations from your trip. It’s even better if they are hidden gems that you would like to share with the rest of us. 

Leave your comments and questions below and we will happily answer all of them

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Visiting Iceland in November: Pros, Cons, and Tips for 2023

Iceland in November is when winter truly begins to set in, with shorter days and colder temperatures. However, this is also an excellent time to experience the beauty of Iceland’s winter landscapes, as well as the Northern Lights. Some attractions may be closed or operating on limited hours, but there are still plenty of opportunities to explore Iceland’s unique culture and natural wonders.

However, is it worth dealing with the short days and potential flight delays? Here’s our guide to visiting Iceland in November.

About Iceland in the Fall

Iceland in november: pros, iceland in november: cons, events in iceland in november, visiting in october instead, visiting in december instead, our final thoughts.

Iceland in the fall is a magical time to visit, with fewer crowds and stunning autumnal scenery. September sees the start of the Northern Lights season, while October offers beautiful fall foliage and whale watching opportunities. November marks the start of winter, but it’s still a great time to visit for those who don’t mind the cold.

One of the biggest draws of Iceland in the fall is the beautiful fall foliage. From the golden birch forests of Akureyri to the vibrant red and orange hues of Reykjavik’s city parks, visitors will be in awe of the stunning natural colors on display.

It’s also a great time to experience Iceland’s wildlife, with whale watching tours available in several locations and bird migrations passing through the country. And of course, for those hoping to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, fall is the perfect time to visit as the skies grow darker and clearer.

With fewer crowds and a slower pace of life, fall is the perfect time to experience Iceland’s natural beauty at its finest.

For a deeper dive into the best time to visit Iceland, please see our comprehensive guide to the best time to visit Iceland .

Pros and Cons of Iceland in November

As with any month of the year, there are going to be advantages and potential disadvantages to exploring Iceland in November. Keep in mind, every month is wildly different for Icelandic adventures. November is no exception. Below are some of the pros and potential cons of Iceland in November.

November marks the beginning of Iceland’s winter season, meaning that you can experience some of the country’s most beautiful winter landscapes without the large crowds of peak tourist season.

One of the most significant advantages of visiting Iceland in November is the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights. This natural phenomenon is best seen during the winter months, and November provides some of the clearest and darkest nights to view the dancing auroras.

November is also an ideal time for those who enjoy outdoor activities like skiing, snowmobiling, ice climbing, and glacier hiking. With the arrival of winter, Iceland’s stunning natural landscapes transform into a winter wonderland, providing a unique experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

Another benefit of visiting Iceland in November is the potential to see migrating birds, particularly at the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. The lagoon attracts various bird species, including arctic terns, whooper swans, and guillemots, as they migrate southwards.

Finally, November is one of the most budget-friendly times to visit Iceland, with reduced airfare and accommodation prices compared to the peak summer season.

Visiting Iceland in November can be a magical and budget-friendly time to experience the country’s stunning natural beauty and unique culture.

November is the beginning of winter in Iceland, and while it can offer some stunning sights and experiences, it is not without its challenges. One of the main drawbacks is the shorter daylight hours, with the sun rising later and setting earlier each day.

This means you’ll have less time to explore and may need to plan your activities more carefully. Additionally, November can be a rainy and windy month, which may limit your outdoor activities. It’s important to pack accordingly and be prepared for wet and windy weather.

Another consideration is the possibility of road closures or limited accessibility due to winter weather. The Ring Road, which is a popular route for exploring the country, may be partially or fully closed due to snow and ice, and certain activities and attractions may also be closed or have limited hours.

Finally, November is a shoulder season for tourism, which means some accommodations, restaurants, and tours may be closed or have reduced availability. It’s important to do your research and plan ahead to avoid any potential disappointments.

There are plenty of events taking place throughout Iceland in the month of November. Here are just a few of the events in Iceland in November:

• Iceland Airwaves Music Festival – This five-day festival in Reykjavik is one of Iceland’s biggest music events. It features local and international artists playing a variety of genres, from indie rock to electronic music.
• DesignMarch – A four-day festival celebrating Icelandic design, DesignMarch features exhibitions, workshops, and talks about architecture, fashion, and product design.
• Reykjavik International Film Festival – This 11-day festival showcases films from around the world, with a special focus on up-and-coming directors.
• The Northern Lights Season – November marks the beginning of the Northern Lights season in Iceland. With longer nights and clear skies, it’s a great time to witness the spectacular natural phenomenon.
• Iceland Airwaves off-venue – In addition to the main festival, Iceland Airwaves also features a number of off-venue shows in bars and cafes around Reykjavik.
• Reykjavik Jazz Festival – This four-day festival brings together jazz musicians from Iceland and beyond for concerts and jam sessions.
• The Icelandic Christmas Book Flood – The holiday season kicks off in November with the Icelandic tradition of Jólabókaflóð or the “Christmas Book Flood.” This is when new books are released and gifted to loved ones in preparation for the holidays.
• The Icelandic Horse Expo – This three-day event in Reykjavik celebrates the Icelandic horse, with demonstrations, competitions, and exhibitions.

Tips for Visiting Iceland in November

Visiting Iceland in November can be a unique and exciting experience. It is the time when winter begins to take hold of the country, and the landscape transforms into a stunning winter wonderland. To make the most of your visit, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Firstly, be sure to pack warm clothing, as temperatures can drop below freezing. Secondly, it’s important to note that daylight hours are shorter, with only a few hours of sunlight each day. However, this presents an opportunity to witness the incredible Northern Lights, which are more visible during this time of the year.

It’s also important to note that some popular tourist attractions may be closed or have limited hours during the off-season. However, this is a great time to explore Iceland’s local culture, as many small towns and villages host their annual Christmas markets, offering a glimpse into Icelandic traditions and food.

Finally, it’s important to drive carefully on the roads, as weather conditions can be unpredictable, and snow and ice can make driving hazardous. With these tips in mind, a visit to Iceland in November can be an unforgettable adventure.

As always, if you’re looking to get up-to-date information on the unpredictable weather in Iceland, there is one primary source. That source is Vedur.is .

If you’re looking to experience the beauty of Iceland’s fall foliage and avoid the colder temperatures of winter, October might be a better time to visit Iceland than November. The weather in Iceland can be quite unpredictable, and while November is known for its chilly temperatures and shorter days, October typically has milder weather and longer daylight hours.

October is also a great time to see the Northern Lights, as the nights are getting longer and the aurora activity is starting to increase.

For a deeper dive, please see our full article on Iceland in October .

If you’re a winter enthusiast and looking to experience Iceland at its snowiest, then December might be a better time to visit than November. December is the start of the winter season, and you can expect to see beautiful snowy landscapes and enjoy winter activities such as ice skating and snowmobiling.

The days are shorter in December, which means you’ll have more time to witness the Northern Lights. Keep in mind that December is also one of Iceland’s busiest months for tourism, so it’s important to book accommodations and activities well in advance.

For a deeper dive, please see our full article on Iceland in December .

No matter when you decide to visit Iceland, there are both pros and cons to every season. While November might not be the ideal time for everyone, it’s still a beautiful time to visit Iceland and experience the magic of the country’s natural beauty. It’s important to plan ahead and research the weather and activities available during your desired time of travel.

Whether you’re looking to witness the Northern Lights, explore Iceland’s stunning natural landscapes, or indulge in some winter activities, there’s something for everyone in Iceland.

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The Magic Of Iceland In November: Adventures, Festivals, and Tips & More

Exploring Iceland in November is like watching a film in your own private movie theater. You can choose the best seats,  there’s no waiting in line for snacks, and the whole show is just for you!

It’s quieter and colder and the contrasting landscapes have a whole new appeal. 

While it’s still technically autumn, November in Iceland pretty much feels like winter!

If you haven’t thought about traveling here in the colder months, this is your sign to reconsider.😉

Let’s find out what holidaying in Iceland in November is like.

Table Of Contents 

Is November a Good Time to Visit Iceland?

Daylight in iceland in november, iceland in november: northern lights, november weather in iceland, what to wear in november, sightseeing availability.

• Driving in November

November Festivals + Events

Things to do in iceland in november.

There is something incredibly charming about visiting Iceland in November. 

The winter landscapes are already snow-kissed and the black sand beaches provide a beautiful contrast against the white. 

November is considered an off-peak season, meaning fewer tourists – so it’s a great time to visit while avoiding the Christmas crowds (and higher prices!). For that reason, you’ll probably get good deals on accommodation, tours, and rentals.

Winter-specific tours and activities are now in full swing, and popular areas like the Ring Road and Golden Circle are totally open for exploring! However, be aware that certain areas, especially those more prone to severe winter conditions, may be off-limits during this time.

The number one thing to consider when planning your itinerary, especially when gearing up for winter is how many daylight hours you have to work with. 

In Iceland, November starts with around eight hours of sunlight, but as the month progresses, daylight dwindles to just about five hours. Yep, only FIVE!

It can feel like you’re at an all-you-can-eat buffet of delicious sights but the sun isn’t willing to stick around for you to see it all! 

So, you’ll need to plan your schedule carefully to make the most of your time exploring.

Oh, how the Northern Lights speak to my soul!  

If you know me, you’ll know that this is one of my favorite 👏 experiences👏 EVER!👏

Iceland in November has longer nights and extended daylight hours, which means this is typically a great time to view the Northern Lights. 

I made a whole video about How to See the Northern Lights in Iceland if you’re curious!

If you plan on spending time in the capital, it’s good to know that the weather in Reykjavík in November is slightly milder than in the inland and northern parts of Iceland. This is because it’s located on the southwestern coast. But let’s be real, wherever you roam in Iceland, it’s going to be chilly. 😅

In November, It’s possible to experience all four seasons in a day, so you never really know what to expect!

However, Iceland’s weather in November is marked by snow, rain, and grey skies. 

Dressing appropriately and being comfortable is key while you’re out exploring – but more on that in a minute.

Temperatures In Iceland In November

Alright, so the temperatures in Iceland in November can dip to 1 and 8 degrees Celsius, that’s 33 and 46 degrees Fahrenheit. 

It’s quite cold, and if you want to avoid the weather-guessing game, layer up!

Here’s the rule of thumb on what to wear in November in Iceland: 

Layers , waterproof , and waterproof layers! 

Temperatures are cold, and with the weather in Iceland acting like a moody teen, it isn’t always predictable. 

It can be dry, rainy, with some snow or none at all, so you have to be prepared for anything and everything when traveling to Iceland during this volatile month.

Focus on staying dry and comfortable. Now is not the time to worry about looking cute ! 😅

This means waterproof layers, insulated boots, base layers, and thermal leggings.

Don’t forget accessories like hats, scarves and gloves. 

👉 If you’re traveling to Iceland in November and want an in-depth look at what you’ll need, check out my free winter packing list below!

Pro tip:   When you’re packing for your November trip you have to pack crampons !

Crampons are traction devices you attach to your footwear to improve your mobility on icy surfaces.

Everything, and I do mean everything in Iceland in November is super icy. From sidewalks to hiking trails, there is a thick layer of ice and it can be really slippery and dangerous. 

Crampons are not expensive and if you don’t have them, you risk serious injury or you’ll miss out on the full experience because your regular hiking boots just won’t cut it. 

I’ve linked my favorite pair of crampons here. You can’t leave home without them, trust me!

As November is the low season in Iceland, it’s a great time to score deals on tours and accommodation.

Reykjavík, Golden Circle, Ring Road: You’ll be able to travel to these areas easily. Just remember that the roads in the East, North, and Snaefellsnes Peninsula can be more slippery and dangerous.  

The Ring Road, Golden Circle, and South get a lot more TLC because of tourist traffic. However, the higher North you go, you’ll notice it becomes a “road less traveled” scenario, and getting around can be trickier.

Highlands and Westfjords: 🚫Iceland’s weather in November is NOT the ideal time to visit these places. They get a lot more snow and it’s really difficult to drive, even if the roads are open. I’d give these areas a hard pass for November’s itinerary. 

Driving in Iceland in November

I’m not going to sugarcoat it, driving in Iceland in November is challenging, to say the least.

It’s snowy, roads are slippery and there are strong winds, so if you don’t have experience driving in these conditions, I would not recommend renting a car. 

But if you’re confident in your driving skills and up for a challenge, renting a four-wheel drive is absolutely the way to go.

One great resource I recommend checking is road.is . They offer daily updates on all the roads in Iceland so you can check if roads are slippery or if they’re closed, especially in November when the snow storms start coming in.

Let’s take a look at the events and festivals taking place in Reykjavík in November:

Iceland Airwaves : If you love music festivals, you’re going to love this one! This festival takes place in Reykjavík and features renowned music artists. 

Some of the concerts are held in big venues that charge a fee but if you happen to be walking around the city and hear music, follow it, my friend! You’ll likely come across musicians performing in smaller venues (like 66°North Shop) that you can enjoy for FREE!

Christmas preparations: Icelanders don’t celebrate Thanksgiving, but they start prepping for Christmas early. (Seriously, decorations start going up in October already!) It’s a fun time of year and you can feel the festive season in the air.

Imagine Peace Tower:  You’ll still be able to see this tribute to John Lennon by his wife. It’s lit on his birthday and remains until the date he died. The tower is still shining in November and it’s visible from pretty much everywhere around Reykjavík.

If you’re visiting Iceland in November, you’ll be happy to know that there are tours available that are unique to this time of year. 

Caves and Glaciers : Natural crystal caves formed underneath the glaciers are finally safe to visit. Víðgelmir Cave is one of Iceland’s largest lava caves. Sólheimajökull Glacier is accessible from the Ring Road and you can find guided glacier hikes in November as well.

Dog sledding: If you’re looking for fun for the whole family, dog sledding tours are also available, but if canine-driven travel isn’t your thing, you can also try snowmobiling! 

Golden Circle and Ring Road: Visit the hot springs, waterfalls, and national parks. The Golden Circle is a great way to experience Iceland’s natural highlights.

Northern Lights: November is a prime month to witness this stunning natural display.

(P.S.If you’re interested in taking an organized tour check out the Tours Available in Iceland in November )

Whale watching: This is also the time of year to spot humpback whales and orcas and there are a number of whale watching tours available.

Blue Lagoon Spa: Luckily you can unwind in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon all year round. This is, however, a very popular spot, so you’ll want to book in advance!

Taking a trip to Iceland in November has its own set of perks – despite the colder weather and certain areas being less accessible – there are still plenty of things to experience!

You’ll find everything you need to plan the perfect trip with my 👉 Iceland Travel Guides & Maps . 

It’s crammed with information on what to pack, where to eat, and more. 

The digital maps have over 500 pinned locations, saving you time searching for gas stations, clinics, and hidden gems that no one tells you about. 🤯

So layer up and fasten those crampons – it’s time for your next trip!

Pin it for Later! 👇🏾

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Iceland in November

All you need to know.

What to do in Iceland in November

• THINGS TO DO IN NOVEMBER
• EVENTS IN NOVEMBER
• GOOD TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING
• WEATHER IN NOVEMBER

Related Tours

Related blogs.

November is a beautiful month to visit Iceland. It might be cold, but there are endless options for great activities and fun! Here are some ideas on what to do in Iceland when visiting in November.

Visiting Iceland in November is always a good idea. It might be colder, but it is the perfect month to skip the high-season crowds and see the beautiful colorful  Northern Lights ! If the weather gets to be too chilly, you can always jump in for hot cocoa or a warm cup of tea.

THINGS TO DO IN ICELAND IN NOVEMBER

There are so many amazing  things to do in Iceland in winter , and November is the perfect month for all the winter activities! Here you'll find what to do in Iceland in November.

ICE CAVES IN ICELAND IN NOVEMBER

Guided tour in Katla ice cave, Iceland

November is when the  ice caving  season officially starts! It means that the temperatures are cold enough at the glaciers, so the ice caves are now safe and don’t have running water like in summer. Just imagine crystal glacial ice roofs that shine and sparkle in the most stunning blue colors, and there you are, standing inside an ancient glacier in Iceland. For example, dive into our Katla Ice Cave Tour and experience something incredible. This is a moment you will remember forever! You can see an  ice cave on tour  with or without a  glacier walk  and also on a  snowmobiling tour . Your options are endless. And with an action-packed multi-day tour , your won't have to choose!

Crystal Ice Cave Tour with Super Jeep Ride

Skaftafell Blue Ice Cave & Glacier Hike Tour

Katla Ice Cave (Under The Volcano) Tour

Northern lights in iceland in november.

Bright green Northern Lights in Iceland

Seeing the  Northern lights is tricky, so if you are planning to see them, you will need to book a longer trip. Coming for 2-3 days will downgrade your chances quite a lot. Of course, you might get lucky, but I would always suggest 4+ days to be sure! Maximise your chances with a Northern Lights tour .

They are surely worth the wait as when these magical multicolored waves start their show in the dark winter sky. There is just no comparison! 

Northern Lights Super Jeep Tour

Magical Auroras - Northern Lights Tour

Ice Cave & Northern Lights Tour

Glacier hiking in iceland in november.

To go  glacier hiking  in Iceland is always a great idea, but in November, it’s especially so since the ice gets beautifully blue and mixes with the stunning newly fallen snow. You just need to worry about dressing warm and how to get to the glacier. Get the pickup service for the tour if you have never driven in snow and northern winter conditions. 

Snowmobiling is always a great activity, but the glaciers are so pretty at this time of the year. Plus, in November, the ice caves are ready, and there is no way more exciting to explore the ice caves than to go snowmobiling across a glacier to a sudden opening and to go inside to explore,  enjoy and take in before snowmobiling back to the glacier camp. Talk about an exciting day!

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Lava caves in november in iceland.

Raufarholshellir lava cave in Iceland

The best thing about the lava caves is there is no bad weather to visit them! No matter what's going on outside, the climate inside the lava tube is always the same. Explore the true essence of the volcanic activity in Iceland by going deep into its core. Go  lava caving !

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Snorkeling or diving in november in iceland.

Snorkeling tour in Silfra Fissure, Iceland

Swimming in Iceland during November might not seem like the best idea, but with a nice overall and dry suit, we are good. Besides, when will you ever get the chance to  snorkel or dive  between the tectonic plates? Let me answer this, never.  Silfra fissure is the only place in the world where you can do this, so now is your chance, don’t miss out experience this Icelandic wonder on our Silfra scuba diving tour .   Browse our diving tours today.

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Events in iceland in november.

There are a number of events happening in Iceland during November. Check out what to see and where to be when visiting Iceland in November.

Iceland Airwaves Festival (beginning of November)

Iceland Airwaves is one of the biggest and most anticipated music festivals in Iceland, attracting musicians and fans from all over the world. For three nights and three days, Iceland's cafes, bars, and restaurants become music venues.

The first festival was held at Reykjavik Airport in 1999 and has grown ever since. Unlike the big music festivals around Europe, it is known for intimate performances and a bit of "hippish" culture. And yet, everything in Iceland is different, right?

Great artists like Bjork, Fatboy Slim, and Vampire Weekend have performed at this festival.

Icelandic Language Day (November 16)

November 16 is a day to celebrate the unique Icelandic language. The Icelandic Language Day (Dagur Islenskrar Tungu) was first celebrated in 1996. It is dedicated to the remarkable Icelandic language with all its complexity.

Icelandic flag

The Iceland Language Day coincides with the birthday of the famous Icelandic poet Jonas Hallgrimsson for a reason. Hallgrimsson was one of the founders of the Icelandic journal Fjornir, which was published in Copenhagen between the years 1835 and 1847. The journal is believed to have played a crucial part in Iceland's attempt to gain independence from Denmark.

On this day, Icelanders from all over the world are encouraged to speak their language and keep the language alive on their tongue. Numerous exhibitions and cultural events are happening all around Reykjavik. The awards are handed in Harpa Concert Hall to those who contributed greatly to the Icelandic language and literature over the past year.

GOOD TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING ICELAND IN NOVEMBER

Icelandic roads and even walking paths can be slippery in November, so be careful while driving/walking. We recommend having crampons to put under your shoes just in case. They can be purchased at any gas station or outdoor store and aren't expensive. If you aren't used to driving in snow and cold weather, you might be better off joining a guided tour.

Winter in Iceland is for ice caving and the Northern Lights, so don't miss out on them! Book a tour which includes these bucket list activites while exploring the South Coast.

Dress warm and don't forget to wear layers! If you're wondering how to dress for Iceland in November, check out  this blog post on what to wear in Iceland .

The nightlife downtown  Reykjavík  in winter is excellent, and you will want to try it out. Step out late, around midnight, is when it turns up.

Visiting a natural hot spring in November needs to be researched well. Some aren't hot enough to be visited in winter.

The daylight is limited, so plan your activities accordingly.

Last but not least, have a great time in Iceland!

WEATHER IN ICELAND IN NOVEMBER

Diamond Beach full of icebergs in South of Iceland

Now we are well into winter. Mountains, or at least their tops, will be covered with snow, and you will need to start thinking about slippery roads and getting that thick winter coat out. The air begins to get colder and crispier, so hats, gloves, and scarves are your best friends.

Daylight and Temperature in Iceland in November

Daylight changes a lot during November. The 1st of November has about 8 hours of daylight but the 30th only about 5 hours. This is something you need to keep in mind when you are planning your travels to Iceland in November. Temperatures in Iceland in November are cold. The average temperature is about 4°C or about 40 F and is pretty steady throughout the month. So dress warm! Can expect snow, rain, fog, and sun, sometimes all at the same hour. 

If you want to find out more about what you can expect, check out our ultimate guide to  the weather in Iceland .

Does it snow in Iceland in November?

The short answer is - YES! Be prepared to experience some snow during November in Iceland. Iceland's capital Reykjavik usually gets around 8.7 centimeters (3.4 inches) of snow, which is six times more than in October but still only half of the snowfall of December!

Know someone who is traveling to Iceland in November? Share this blog post with them!

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15 Best Things to do in Iceland in November

November is a wonderful time to visit Iceland. From the northern lights to ice caves, there’s plenty of activities to keep you busy. Rug yourself up and start planning, as we’ve rounded up the 15 best things to do in Iceland during November.

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Iceland in November: The northern light season begins!

November in Iceland is firmly a winter month. Gone is any semblance of the warmer days of summer that you might find in October. It’s time to welcome the wintry mix of snow, ice, and wind! Whether you plan on road tripping the iconic Ring Road or you want to stand in a cavern of crystalline ice, November might be the perfect month to visit.

So, is it a good time to go to Iceland? Absolutely! Here’s everything you need to know about traveling to Iceland in November.

Weather and Driving Conditions in Iceland in November

What is the weather like in iceland in november.

Snowfall and Precipitation:

November in Iceland paints a picture of variable conditions, shifting between the mild vibes of fall and the encroaching chill of winter. While many envision a blanket of snow in Iceland during this time, it’s not as frequent as one might think. Especially in the southern half of the country, snow isn’t always a guarantee. Total average snowfall is around 8 inches, although this can differ considerably, depending on which region you’re exploring. For those specifically interested in the snow in Iceland, venturing to different parts might offer varying experiences.

But snow isn’t the only form of precipitation you’ll encounter. The weather in Iceland in November is also marked by about 3 inches of rain. The temperatures in Iceland in November are testament to the onset of winter; they oscillate between 39° F (3.8°C) and 31°F (-0.5C).

Daylight and Night Activities:

Daylight becomes a prized possession during this month, as Iceland only boasts around six hours of it. It might be intimidating to think of spending so much of your day enveloped in darkness. Yet, this diminished daylight offers excellent chances of seeing the northern lights in Iceland in November. The extended nights provide opportunities to witness the spectacular northern lights, best enjoyed during a northern lights tour/self-drive tour or while soaking in a geothermal hot spring like the Blue Lagoon.

Driving in Iceland in November

Driving in Iceland during November can be a unique experience. While the Ring Road remains a popular choice, the Golden Circle also offers a concise yet beautiful snapshot of Iceland’s natural wonders. If you’re wondering whether it’s a good idea to drive in Iceland in November, it’s crucial to be prepared. Most visitors plan around one week for their drive in Iceland in November to ensure they see everything. Road conditions can deteriorate due to snow and ice, so a 4×4 vehicle with Studded tyres are recommended. For a stress-free experience, consider renting from reliable providers and always monitor weather updates.

What to Wear in Iceland in November

Now that Iceland’s weather is firmly into the winter months, you’re going to need to gear up! Biting cold and freezing wind is in store if you’re visiting Iceland in November and you’ll need to plan accordingly. When it comes to Iceland’s weather, it’s always better to be over prepared than left out in the cold.

Make sure to bring a thick winter coat, preferably one that is also waterproof, has a hood, and reaches down to your knees. An insulated winter hat, gloves, socks, and sturdy, waterproof boots may also be necessary. Packing hand and foot warmers also ensures you’ll stay toasty if you’re planning to explore Iceland’s beautiful natural wonders, and you should, despite the chill!

Can you see the northern lights in Iceland in November?

November is an excellent time to see the northern lights in Iceland . Polar night is returning to the country and while winter weather can make things a bit trickier, the added darkness will only help your chances of seeing the aurora borealis. Most back roads will be closed by November due to ice and snow but you’ll have a chance of seeing the stunning natural phenomenon as long as you’re far from light pollution. Renting a car is an inexpensive way to go northern lights hunting!

Best Things to Do in Iceland in November

November in Iceland is a wonderful time to experience the start of winter in the arctic. Whether you’re desperate to see the northern lights, an avid ice climber, or just simply love wintery weather, there’s a little something for everyone.

1. See the Northern Lights

Seeing the northern lights in Iceland in November is high on most visitors’ bucket lists. How many people can say that they watched the aurora borealis glitter above their heads one snowy evening in the arctic? Seeing the northern lights really depends on solar activity and general cloud cover. Check this official aurora borealis tracker daily for the best chance at catching a glimpse.

2. Experience an Ice Cave

As if standing beneath a frozen ocean, Iceland’s ice caves are a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Only open in winter, seeing an ice cave is one of the most spectacular activities on offer during the colder months. The melting of the glaciers in summer causes glacial rivers to carve out caves and tunnels through the ice which in turn re-freeze come winter.

Most ice caves are located inside of a glacier. The most popular ice caves in Iceland are found within the famous Vatnajökull and Langjökull Glaciers.

Ice caves are a great addition to a winter trip because it doesn’t matter what the weather is like outside! You’ll stay (mostly) dry inside these frozen caverns. Tour operators are the only way to see these almost mythical caves.

3. Go Snowmobiling on Glacial Terrains

One of the most thrilling activities to undertake in November is snowmobiling across Iceland’s vast glacial expanses. As winter blankets the land, these icy terrains transform into a haven for adventure seekers. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-timer, joining a snowmobiling tour is essential, not only for safety but also to gain access to the best spots on the glaciers.

Tour operators provide all the necessary gear and equipment, ensuring you have a safe and unforgettable journey. It’s not merely about the ride; it’s an immersive experience, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of snow-covered mountains and valleys. Remember, independent snowmobiling is not recommended; always opt for a guided tour to ensure a seamless and safe adventure.

4. Road Tripping the Route 1 – Ring Road

Whether you’re planning to complete just a portion of the Ring Road or you want to see the entire thing, it’s still possible to circumnavigate Route 1 in November. The entirety of Route 1 can actually be driven (no stops) in 17 hours but you’ll want to savor your time along Iceland’s most beautiful drive. Most visitors plan for around one week to make sure they get to see everything.Road conditions can deteriorate at any time in the winter months so keep this in mind if you decide to try and drive the entire length of Route 1. You can also opt for doing just a portion of Route 1 like the strikingly beautiful Snæfellsnes Peninsula or a road trip through the south.

You’ll want to consider renting a 4×4 vehicle and it will probably be recommended that you also bring along snow chains for the tires as well.

Iceland in November Quick Travel guide

Whether you’re road tripping Route 1 or on a mission to visit the black sand beaches , planning a trip to Iceland in November is a great time to experience the Land of Fire and Ice. Make sure to reserve your rental car with Firefly Iceland as soon as possible for the best rates and reliable vehicles to make your trip one for the books.

Best cheap rental car in Iceland for November

Dacia Duster or similar | Manual | 4×4 | 2020-2021 (CFMX)

Group e2 reservations are made by car category only. we cannot guarantee a specific car model. or similar.

• 5 Passengers
• Airconditioning

Suitable for the highland F-roads. Please read Terms & Conditions. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features

• 4 Wheel Drive
• 116 C0 2  g/km
• Adjustable Steering
• Electronic Stability Control
• Power Steering
• Power Windows
• Remote Locking

VW Tiguan or similar | Automatic | 4×4 | 2020-2021 Model (IFAX)

Group: o reservations are made by car category only. we cannot guarantee a specific car model. or similar, dacia duster or similar |manual| 4×4 (cfmn) -2022-2024 new model, group e2 reservations are made by car category only. we cannot guarantee a specific car model..

Suzuki Vitara or similar|Manual| 4×4 (IFMN) | 2022-2024 New Model

Group f reservations are made by car category only. we cannot guarantee a specific car model. or similar.

• Cruise Control

Kia Sorento or similar | Automatic | 4×4 (SFAN) | 2022-2024 New Model

Group: o2 reservations are made by car category only. we cannot guarantee a specific car model..

• 164 C0 2  g/km

Mitsubishi Pajero or similar | Automatic| 4×4 (FFAR) | 2022-2024 New Model

Group: i reservations are made by car category only. we cannot guarantee a specific car model. or similar.

• 213 C0 2  g/km

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November in Iceland – Weather, Fun Activities, What to Pack & More

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Visiting Iceland in November offers a unique and enchanting experience, blending the majestic winter landscapes with the possibility of witnessing the magical Northern Lights.

Previous Episodes About Months in Iceland

• January in Iceland
• February in Iceland
• March in Iceland
• April in Iceland
• May in Iceland
• June in Iceland
• July in Iceland
• August in Iceland
• September in Iceland
• October in Iceland

Icelandic Weather and Average Temperature in November

November in Iceland marks the transition deeper into the winter season. You can expect cold weather with average temperatures ranging from -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F). It’s a time when the winter chill starts to set in, and snowfall becomes more common, especially in the northern and inland areas.

Icelandic Daylight Hours in November

Daylight becomes scarce in November, with the length of the day dramatically decreasing as the month progresses. Early in the month, you might experience around 8 hours of daylight. By the end of November, this can reduce to just around 5 hours. The short days and long nights create ideal conditions for viewing the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, one of Iceland’s most famous natural phenomena.

What to Wear During November in Iceland

Given the cold temperatures and the possibility of wet and snowy conditions, it’s essential to pack warm and waterproof clothing. Layering is key, so bring thermal undergarments, woolen sweaters, a waterproof and windproof outer layer, gloves, a warm hat, and a scarf. Sturdy, waterproof boots with good grip are also a must for exploring Iceland’s rugged terrain.

My Ultimate Packing Checklist is linked in the show notes and will provide you with everything you need to bring. I recommend following the winter list, especially toward the end of the month because it is noticeably colder and darker.

Road Conditions & Driving

Driving in Iceland in November can be challenging due to icy and snowy road conditions, especially on less traveled and rural roads. It’s important to check the weather and road conditions frequently (via the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration website ) and consider renting a 4×4 vehicle for better traction. Always drive cautiously and be prepared for sudden changes in weather. Also, check websites for the weather before you head, like safetravel.is and vedur.is .

Expert Trip Planning Tip for November

November can be a nice winter season month for people to visit who want to avoid the crowds. Driving to different parts of the country is not as difficult as in late December, January, and February, but there will be snow and ice in some areas.

Best Icelandic Rental Car Company for Driving in November

If you plan to explore Iceland on your own when you visit, I highly recommend using Go Car Rental Iceland . They are a local Icelandic car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars and very competitive prices. Use my code Iceland10 to save 10% off the entire cost of your rental car.

I personally use them for when I go on adventures, and I’m so glad to hear that many of my listeners and subscribers are also having a great experience with them. I mentioned in a previous episode that one of my listeners switched to Go Car Rental Iceland from one of the internationally known rental car companies here and she saved $400! That was for a rental during the summer when prices can sometimes double due to demand.

Camper Van Rental in Iceland in November

If you plan to use a campervan, use my code Iceland7 to save 7% and get two free duvets with your GO Campers van rental. Also, I have a great episode coming up soon about how to choose the right camper van for your travels in Iceland, so keep an eye out for that.

Why You Should Visit Iceland in November

November is an excellent time to visit Iceland if you’re looking to experience its winter wonderland charm without the peak tourist crowds. The possibility of seeing the Northern Lights is a significant draw, as the long nights provide ample opportunity for this spectacular natural display. Additionally, November offers the chance to experience Iceland’s dramatic landscapes with a beautiful winter backdrop, including snow-capped mountains, frozen waterfalls, and icy lagoons.

Top Activities to Do in November

• Northern Lights Hunting : The extended hours of darkness provide a great opportunity to witness the Aurora Borealis. Joining a guided tour can increase your chances of seeing this natural phenomenon, as experts know the best times and locations.
• Ice Cave Tours : November is an excellent time for ice cave exploration, as the colder temperatures make the ice caves more stable and accessible.
• Hot Springs and Geothermal Pools : Relaxing in one of Iceland’s many geothermal pools or hot springs, like the Blue Lagoon, is particularly enjoyable when it’s cold outside.
• Glacier Hiking and Snowmobiling : The snow-covered landscapes provide perfect conditions for glacier hikes and snowmobiling adventures.

November Events and Holidays in Iceland

November hosts a couple of cultural events and holidays:

• Iceland Airwaves : An annual music festival that takes place in Reykjavik, featuring a mix of established and up-and-coming Icelandic and international artists. I was able to hear Ásgeir perform one year and that was magical. Feel free to check out my Spotify playlist of Icelandic artists here .
• Christmas Markets : Towards the end of November, Christmas markets start to appear, offering handicrafts, local foods, and festive decorations, marking the beginning of the holiday season in Iceland.

Iceland Trip Planning Resources

Before hopping into the random fact of the episode, I want to share some Iceland trip planning resources. I’ve received many amazing emails from listeners of the podcast and followers on social media asking me for my advice on what to do in Iceland. Due to the high demand for this information, I created some resources. All of the ones I talk  about can be found in the navigation panel of this website, which is above. There is a tab at the top called “Trip Planning Help”. Click on that and you will find links to everything I am about to share.

Book a Private Video Consultation with Me to Plan Your Trip

One of the resources is that if you’re interested in getting personalized trip planning advice from me, you can book me for a consultation via this link . After you fill out a survey and pick a time that is available for both of us, we do a one-hour video chat via Google Meet.

During this time, we chat about your interest, parts of the country you want to visit, how to get the most out of your time, helpful information to know about Iceland before coming, and any questions that you have. I always feel delighted when I hear at the end of the call that people feel even more excited about their upcoming trip because of the consultation.

Make Your Own Itinerary with My Iceland Map

Another great resource is to grab full access to my Iceland map . This map was created for those who want to pick out places and hidden gems around Iceland to make up their own itinerary or add to one that they already created.

With full access, you get over 260 places that I recommend in Iceland, along with four itineraries to use for planning your trip. Those itineraries include a 10-day Ring Road trip, a 3-day South Iceland trip, The Famous Golden Circle and a Reykjanes Peninsula Day Trip.

A one-time purchase gives you lifetime access, which includes any updates I make to the map.

Here is a link to my Iceland map: rexby.com/jewells/Iceland .

Random Fact of the Episode

Annually on November 16th, Icelander’s celebrate Icelandic Language Day. In Icelandic it is “ Dagur íslenskrar tungu” and the translation of that is “day of the Icelandic tongue”.

This day is held to celebrate and promote the Icelandic language.

Icelandic Word of Episode

Nóvember – November

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12 top places to visit in Iceland in 2024

Mar 12, 2024 • 8 min read

Iceland has lots to offer – here's our 12 favorite places to visit © evenfh / Shutterstock

Iceland appears on the must-do lists of many travelers – its charming cities and towns, other-worldly landscapes and astronomical phenomena keep the crowds coming back for more every year.

But how do you choose the highlights of your trip in a country packed with so many of them ? Don't worry, we've picked twelve incredible places, some of which are on the beaten path and some of which are not, but all of which might surprise you. Here are our favorite places to visit in Iceland  in 2024.

1. Mosfellsbær

Best for a quiet escape near Reykjavík

Reykjavík’s friendly rural neighbor is Mosfellsbær . Its biggest attractions are the small mountains that surround the town, including Úlfarsfell, Mosfell, Helgafell and Reykjafell – all great for short hikes. Lake Hafravatn is a gem that locals flock to for swimming and kayaking fun. Time your visit to coincide with the popular vegetable market that carries the produce of local farmers, open every Saturday in late summer in the valley.

The valley is also host to Gljúfrasteinn , a museum dedicated to Nobel Prize laureate Halldór Laxness, and Laxnes farm, which offers horseback riding tours. Álafosskvos is a tiny art and design village with a long-standing yarn store and local craft stores full of beautifully made items you'll want to bring home.

Planning tip: You can visit Mosfellsbær year-round. Þingvellir National Park is a short drive away – avoid the crowds by visiting between September and May .

Best base on the Golden Circle

In rural South Iceland lies Flúðir, best known for its mushroom greenhouse. If mushrooms are your thing, the greenhouse’s bistro offers all things funghi-related. Continue your gastronomic adventure and try authentic Ethiopian food at Minilik . Nearby is the Secret Lagoon , known locally as Gamla Laugin, and Hrunalaug , a small natural pool with stacked stone walls in the peaceful countryside. Flúðir is on the Golden Circle with some of the country’s best-known attractions within reach – it’s the perfect base for exploring the region.

Planning tip: It’s best not to visit Flúðir in the summer. It's the height of the tourist season, and spring and autumn are more enjoyable.

3. Stokkseyri

Best kayaking tours near Reykjavík

This charming South Coast village attracts foodies from far and wide to its seafood restaurant Fjöruborðið  – the lobster is especially popular. Kayaking in its narrow channels is a calm and fun activity, and the neighboring village of Eyrarbakki has beautifully restored timber houses and a heritage museum in a home that seems frozen in time. Nearby is Raufarhólshellir , one of the longest lava tubes in Iceland.

Planning tip: You can visit Stokkseyri and engage in most of the activities year-round, but service hours may change in winter, and kayaking depends on the weather.

Best base for glacial tours

In the kingdom of Vatnajökull , harbor town Höfn welcomes you with its lobster restaurants and stunning glacial views. This is a great base for exploring Europe’s largest glacier, from Jökulsárlón and other glacial lagoons with their floating icebergs to glacial hikes, snowmobile tours and ever-changing ice caves. Among local tour operators is the family-run company Glacier Journey .

Planning tip: You can visit year-round, but the ice-caving season is roughly from November through March. Glacial hikes are usually not possible at the height of summer. Always go with a guide and in good weather.

5. Borgarfjörður eystri

Best place for puffin-watching

The tiny village of Bakkagerði is surrounded by colorful mountains in Borgarfjörður eystri, one of the more remote Eastfjords. Getting there is an adventure in its own right as the road winds its way up and down a mountain pass. As you enter the village, time seems to slow down. Here you can relax and enjoy nature, go on hikes, explore on two wheels or treat yourself to a boat tour  and watch puffins up close from the bird-watching house on Hafnarhólmi.

Planning tips: To see puffins, visit from mid-May to early August. Christmas-related events take place during Advent, and snow sports are possible during winter.

6. Hallormsstaðaskógur

Best for camping in the woods

Visit Iceland’s largest forest and be amazed by its size. The campsite in Atlavík , on the banks of Lake Lagarfljót, is one of the country’s best and most popular among local tourists. There are 40 km (25 miles) of walking paths around the forest, so you can lose yourself among the trees and then climb up and enjoy the view of the lake – perhaps even catch a glimpse of the vicious wyrm that is said to inhabit it. Egilsstaðir, East Iceland’s largest town, is only 30 minutes away, and some of the region’s biggest attractions, like Hengifoss waterfall , are also close by.

Planning tips: Visit between June and August for camping. A forest festival is held around Midsummer’s Day, and mid-August to mid-September is the berry-picking season. Enjoy autumn colors from late August through October.

Best place for whale watching

Visit Iceland’s whale-watching capital and enjoy the friendly atmosphere as you stroll around the harbor. Joining a whale-watching tour of Skjálfandi Bay with one of the local tour operators is a must, perhaps combined with a bird-watching tour or a visit to Flatey Island , which was inhabited until the 1960s.

Learn more about whales at the fascinating Whale Museum , enjoy a beer at Gamli Baukur and try the salted cod at Salka Restaurant . Afterward, soak in the geothermal waters at Geosea and take in the gorgeous view of Skjálfandi. Húsavík is on the Diamond Circle and Arctic Coast Way.

Planning tips: Whale watching is available from March to November but is most enjoyable during the summer months.

8. Hauganes

Best place for a special bathing experience

There’s more than meets the eye at this hamlet on the shore of Eyjafjörður in North Iceland. The hot tubs on the beach have become quite the attraction, and it’s also tempting to brave the frigid waves. Try the salted cod at Baccalá restaurant and bar – it's prepared by local company Ektafiskur. You can also catch your own fish on sea angling tours and go whale watching from Hauganes. In the nearby village of Árskógssandur, Kaldi beer is brewed, and the brewery also offers beer baths . The ferry to the idyllic island Hrísey goes from Árskógssandur.

Planning tips: Visit for the midnight sun in the summer and northern lights in winter. Sea tours are best enjoyed in the summer.

9. Siglufjörður

Best for snow sports

Although it's best known as the location for the crime series Trapped , Siglufjörður is not scary at all. It’s a peaceful fishing community that used to be isolated – trapped, if you will – between tall mountains but has now been connected to the neighboring town of Ólafsfjörður by a tunnel. It was one of Iceland’s bustling herring processing centers during the boom that reached its height in the mid-20 th century.

This remarkable history is documented in the Herring Era Museum . Today, Siglufjörður is one of North Iceland’s centers for snow sports  – don't miss the popular Moroccan restaurant in town after a day on the slopes. Siglufjörður also has a beloved ski resort , and off-piste skiing is possible in the mountains of the Tröllaskagi peninsula.

Planning tips: Visit between January and March for cross-country and Alpine skiing at resorts. Off-piste skiing is usually possible through May. 

10. Hólmavík

Best base for exploring Strandir

On the northern coast of the Westfjords lies the fishing village Hólmavík, which has made a name for itself with its Museum of Sorcery and Witchcraft . Diving into Iceland’s darker past, it tells tales of sorcerers and magic spells, witch burnings and other heinous acts. In a charming old house, Café Riis serves delicious pizzas and other treats.

The nearby town of Drangsnes has several  beachside hot tubs that could easily tempt you to spend the rest of the day gazing at the incredible scenery. A bumpy – and slightly scary – gravel road continues onwards along the Strandir region to some of Iceland’s remotest communities in Árneshreppur. At the edge of the world, you can book a night at Hótel Djúpavík .

Planning tips: It’s best to visit in summer as the road to the remoter communities is often hazardous or closed in winter.

Best place for quiet contemplation

In the middle of Breiðafjörður Bay, between the Westfjords and Snæfellsnes Peninsula , is an island which seems to have been lost in time. Only a handful of people live there year-round, but in summer the village comes to life when part-time residents come and stay in the beautifully restored houses. Walk around Flatey among grazing sheep and busy seabirds (watch out for the Arctic terns), look out at the ocean and find inner calm. The ferry goes between Stykkishólmur and Brjánslækur .

Planning tips: It’s best to visit in summer when the weather is more stable for sailing and more services are open.

12. Húsafell

Best resort for diverse experiences

In the innermost part of Borgarfjörður in the West, almost at the foot of Langjökull glacier, is the forested paradise of Húsafell – its hotel, campground and cottages have made it very popular among local tourists. There are both easy and challenging walking paths, including to the spectacular waterfalls of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss. Glacial tours are available from Húsafell, and Víðgelmir , a massive lava cave, is just a few minutes away. You can soak in the on-site swimming pools or go on a hike to the more exclusive Canyon Baths .

Planning tips: Visit year-round. Summer is best for camping and hiking, and winter is best for viewing the northern lights.

This article was first published April 2021 and updated March 2024

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• Things to do

Iceland in November 2024: Things to See and Do

9 minute read

By Max Naylor

27 October 2021

Looking for the best things to do in Iceland in November? Read on for all our tips and inspiration for your November adventure to Iceland.

Visiting Iceland in November gives you the chance to check the country out in wintertime before it gets too cold. You’ve also got a great chance of seeing the Northern Lights.

What’s more, November is a pretty good time to go if you want a slice of Icelandic culture. The Iceland Airwaves music festival at the start of November brings an awesome buzz upon Reykjavík. If you love gigs, it’d be a sin to miss it!

• Blog: Iceland in the Fall – Your Guide .

Is it worth going to Iceland in November?

Absolutely! November is a fantastic time of year to visit Iceland for a whole bunch of reasons.

First up, the Northern Lights. The magical Aurora are only visible in the darkness of the winter months. November’s shorter daylight hours give you plenty of time to chase down the lights.

• Check out these Northern Lights tours of Iceland .
• Blog: Northern Lights in Iceland – All about Aurora Borealis .

Toward the end of November, Icelanders start getting ready for Christmas . So you’ll see the festive lights going up around towns and villages and maybe a little bit of the magic will rub off on you!

November also brings a decent chance of snow, adding to the whole festive vibe.

Need more reasons to visit Iceland in November? Here’s 5:

• No summer rush, and you’re in before the popular Christmas season
• Plenty of chances to spot the Northern Lights
• A cozy winter feel with festive lights and decorations starting to appear
• Iceland’s ice cave tours are running and the glaciers are looking their best
• The biggy: the Iceland Airwaves music festival

Best things to see and do in Iceland in November

There’s plenty of stuff to do in November in Iceland, both out in the countryside and in Reykjavík. At this time of year, you’re likely to experience:

• Snow-capped mountains
• Waterfalls covered in dangling icicles
• Magnificent ice caves hidden under glaciers
• Geysers erupting, with the steam turning into ice

The country is still accessible, with major roads being cleared regularly. November isn’t too cold either by Icelandic standards: the deep chill doesn’t set in until the new year. (More about the weather in Iceland below.)

This means it’s still possible to drive the Ring Road and see the country in its winter costume. That said, you’ll want to have some indoor activities lined up too, just in case the weather isn’t in your favor.

• See Iceland in November on a winter self-drive tour .
• Find out how many days to spend in Iceland in winter .

In November, you can:

• See Arctic foxes in their white winter coats
• Visit Þingvellir National Park and see frosted gorges and waterfalls
• Do a classic Golden Circle tour and see a live geyser erupt
• Chase the Northern Lights in the dark evenings
• Sample Icelandic delicacies such as lamb and fresh fish
• Stew in the naturally heated hot tubs with snowflakes falling on your face
• Go lava caving in West Iceland
• Join a whale-watching boat tour from Reykjavík or Húsavík
• Discover the world of Icelandic music at the Iceland Airwaves festival

Events in Iceland in November

One of Iceland’s biggest cultural events – the Iceland Airwaves music festival – dominates the November calendar.

Iceland Airwaves music festival

For a country of 350,000 people, Iceland has a pretty big music scene. A fair few Icelandic acts have made it big on the world stage, including Björk, Sigur Rós, and Of Monsters and Men.

Icelanders are a pretty creative bunch. The large number of bands is probably down to the fact that many Icelandic people moonlight as singers and musicians.

Once you know this, it seems logical that Iceland should be host to big music festivals!

• Amp up your Icelandic music knowledge with our culture guide .

By far the biggest and most international is Iceland Airwaves. Normally held every year in November, the festival attracts both Icelandic acts and international names like Fatboy Slim and Santigold.

Airwaves takes place in Reykjavík and is spread across venues all over the city center, including the epic Harpa concert hall. There’s also a whole load of “off-venue” gigs, meaning you can see Icelandic acts even if you didn’t manage to nail tickets for the main festival.

What better way to discover the Icelandic music scene than at Airwaves? You can dip in and out of gigs as you please – if you’re not loving what you hear, then simply roll on down to the next venue and try something else.

Icelandic Language Day

On 17 November, Icelanders celebrate Icelandic Language Day. The Icelandic language is one of the cornerstones of Icelandic culture. Locals are encouraged to use the language with each other and visitors too.

Why not learn a few phrases and try them out with Icelanders? They’ll definitely appreciate the effort!

Here are a few that might come in handy:

Another tip: you might see a couple of unusual Icelandic letters on your trip around the country:

• Ð ð (called “eth”) – pronounced like ‘th’ in the
• Þ þ (called “thorn”) – pronounced like ‘th’ in think
• Æ æ – pronounced like ‘i’ in time
• Ö ö – pronounced like ‘u’ in fur

Best places to visit in Iceland in November

1. þingvellir national park.

Location: Southwest Iceland, about 1 hour’s drive from Reykjavík.

Why visit? Þingvellir is a magical place at any time of year, but in November as the Icelandic winter is starting to bed in, it can feel supernatural. Þingvellir (pronounced Thing-vet-lir) was the meeting place of Iceland’s ancient Viking parliament.

Once a year, Icelanders would gather from all over the country to trade, settle disputes, and generally have a good time.

Farmers would set up stalls and sell their produce, and the Lögsögumaður (“Lawspeaker”) would hear cases and make rulings. Back then, the law wasn’t even written down, the Lögsögumaður just recited it aloud from memory at Lögberg (the “Law Rock”).

Don’t miss: Gorges made of solidified lava, and the valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Also: the pool where witches were drowned before being thrown over a waterfall. Why did they do it? Just cause, you know, Vikings.

2. Reykjavík

Location: Southwest Iceland.

Why visit? Reykjavík is Iceland’s only true city, and although it’s small by global standards, it packs in a lot. Of course, this is where Iceland Airwaves happens, so if you want to check out the festival, you’ll have to stop in town!

There’s all kinds of other culture too, including plenty of museums and galleries . And Reykjavík is home to Iceland’s best restaurants , serving modern Icelandic cuisine.

Reykjavík is also known for its awesome nightlife. Around Airwaves, people like to party hard, so if that’s your scene, you’re in luck!

Don’t miss: The city’s bars and clubs. And then a dip in the swimming pool the next day to see off your hangover.

3. Vatnajökull National Park

Location: Southeast Iceland.

Why visit? At this time of year, Vatnajökull National Park and the surrounding area turn into a winter paradise. Vatnajökull is the largest glacier in Europe and it looms large over this part of the country.

This area is also fantastic for ice caving. With Iceland’s ice caves only just opening up in November, it’s the first chance you have to see these wonders in the winter.

• Explore these Iceland adventure packages that include ice cave trips.

Don’t miss: Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon on the south coast, where you can see baby icebergs drift by.

4. Hveragerði and the Reykjadalur warm river

Location: South Iceland, between Reykjavík and the town of Selfoss.

Why visit? Hveragerði is known for its geothermal energy and there are tons of natural hot springs in the area. It’s the center of flower cultivation in Iceland, which you can see in the town’s many greenhouses.

The warm Reykjadalur river is a short hike from Hveragerði. The river is naturally warm all year round and the perfect temperature for bathing. Lying in the warm water – under the stars, with the snow falling on your face – is a magical experience.

• Blog: Iceland’s hot springs and geothermal pools .

Don’t miss: The local hverabrauð or “hot spring bread”. This variant of Icelandic rye bread is baked directly in the ground using geothermal energy!

5. Reykholt valley and Deildartunguhver hot springs

Location: West Iceland, near the Snæfellsnes peninsula .

Why visit? The awesome thing about hot springs is that they’re hot all year round. And actually, we think winter is the best time to see them, as the contrast between hot and cold makes for magic steam clouds.

The surrounding area is also great for lava caving. The Víðgelmir and Surtshellir caves are a few minutes’ drive from the hot spring. Then there are the jaw-dropping Barnafoss and Hraunfossar waterfalls , which might even be frozen at this time of year.

Don’t miss: A dip in the hot tubs at Krauma geothermal spa.

What’s the weather like in Iceland in November?

November is near the start of the Icelandic winter, so temperatures are still quite mild (for Iceland anyway). The average high maxes out at 5°C (41°F), with average lows of 0°C (32°F).

As winter is underway by November, there can be chilly winds, cold rains, and even snow. Come prepared with a warm winter coat and plenty of extra layers.

And don’t forget your wooly hat, scarf, and gloves. (A baseball cap is not a good idea at this time of year.)

Does it snow in Iceland in November?

The chances of snow in Iceland increase pretty sharply across the month of November. This is especially the case in the countryside.

At the start of November, the average snowfall in Reykjavík is 39 mm (1.5 inches), but by the end of the month, the average is 113 mm (4.5 inches). So the later you go, the better your chance of seeing some snow!

Is it safe to drive in Iceland in November?

In Iceland, November is the month when winter weather starts to set in. So you can expect some snow and frost on the roads.

That said, after significant snowfall, all the main roads including Route 1 (the Ring Road) are regularly cleared. Also, if you’ve rented a car, you can rest assured that it will be equipped with winter tires for extra grip.

• Check out these Iceland Ring Road itineraries .
• Blog: Our ultimate guide to car rental in Iceland .

Still, Icelandic driving conditions might be different from what you’re used to back home.

If you don’t feel comfortable driving in Iceland in winter, you can join a multi-day tour from Reykjavík , with multiple excursions by bus. Or if you want to get to know fellow traveler , you could join a guided group tour .

How many hours of daylight are there in Iceland in November?

In November, the days continue to get shorter, meaning you have fewer daylight hours than in the months before. That said, you can still get a decent 5–8 hours of daylight.

At the start of November, sunrise is at around 9:10 a.m. and sunset around 5:10 p.m. By the end of November, the sun doesn’t rise until 10:45 a.m. and is down again by 3:45 p.m.

Shorter daylight hours do have one big benefit though: more chances to chase the Northern Lights. They’re only visible in the dark, so more night is a good thing!

Can I see the Northern Lights in Iceland in November?

Yes! The shorter days are definitely your friend here.

November is a great time to visit Iceland if spotting the Northern Lights is top of your list. Whilst the Aurora themselves aren’t seasonal, the hours of daylight and weather conditions at this time of year work in your favor.

That said, the Northern Lights are a natural beast that can’t be predicted, so we can’t guarantee you’ll see them. By visiting at a darker time of year, your chances are much higher.

• Related: Best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland .

And if you’re lucky enough to see them, it’s truly the experience of a lifetime!

What to wear and what to pack for a trip to Iceland in November?

Winter is well and truly underway in November. So you should expect there to be a chill in the air, especially at night. If you’re planning on outdoor activities like Northern Lights excursions or ice caving, then bringing warm layers is super important.

Here’s a list of things not to forget for your Iceland trip:

• Wool sweaters or fleeces
• Thermal jacket with waterproof outer layer
• Waterproof overtrousers
• Gloves, scarf, and woolen hat
• Trusty hiking boots and thick, warm socks
• Warm underwear, like long johns
• Swimsuit and towel for pools and natural hot springs

Find out more about how to pack for an Iceland winter trip with our packing guide .

Planning your trip to Iceland in November

Where should you start when it comes to actually planning your November trip to Iceland? Our advice is to pick the places you want to see and activities you want to do, and build your itinerary around that.

Iceland Tours offers a great choice of winter vacation packages , so you’re bound to find one that brings your dream trip to life. You can go for a self-drive tour . Or if you prefer to skip the driving, a multi-day tour from Reykjavík .

Once you’ve narrowed it down, the only thing left is to decide how long you want your trip to be. Then book online and we’ll take care of the rest.

Your winter adventure in Iceland is just around the corner!

• Travel advice ,

About the author

Max has been back and forth from Iceland since 2009. He lived and worked there for several years, and although he’s moved away, he left a piece of his heart there. When he’s in Iceland, he loves to relax in the ‘hot pot’, chow down on some local food, and catch up with friends. He speaks Icelandic fluently, so if you need to know how to pronounce ‘Fagradalsfjall’, he’s your guy.

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ICELAND TOURS IN NOVEMBER

With lighter traffic on the Ring Road, fewer visitors at top attractions and a major music festival in town, a trip to Iceland in November is a fantastic idea. Not to mention your chance to see the northern lights! Enjoy a winter getaway in Iceland with a tour designed by the local experts at Nordic Visitor.

TRAVELLING TO ICELAND IN NOVEMBER

Looking for tours in Iceland in November? We’ve got you covered!

Book your travels to Iceland in November to experience the quieter side of the country. As the winter slowly sets in, you can still visit many iconic waterfalls, hot springs and more.

Nature’s biggest attraction at this time of year is, of course, the northern lights, which you may get to see dancing in the night sky.

Our Reykjavík-based Iceland experts can tailor your itinerary. Join a guided small group or a multi-day tour , take a self-drive adventure , or discover the country with a private guide .

Plus, when you book a trip to Iceland with Nordic Visitor, you get hand-picked accommodation, transportation reservations, daily breakfast and access to our 24/7 helpline.

Get in touch  with us and we'll happily plan your perfect Iceland adventure. You can reach us via our toll-free numbers, contact form or LiveChat.

— WHY US?

Why book with nordic visitor.

• Hassle-free & seamless travel experience
• Flexible & customisable tour options
• Value for your money
• Professional service from local experts
• 24/7 emergency helpline during tour

Join a guided small group

See northern lights and more in Iceland with new friends and a local guide on one of these small group tours.

Natural Wonders of Iceland - Winter

Northern Lights Circle Tour

Winter highlights & northern lights, ice cave & glacier lagoon.

Best of South & West Iceland - Winter

Explore at your own pace with a car.

Drive the Ring Road with peace of mind. We recommend these Iceland self-drive tours, designed specially for winter.

Iceland Full Circle Classic - Winter

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Spend your nights in Reykjavik and your days visiting major attractions. Check out these multi-day tours.

Best of South Iceland - Winter

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Experience Iceland’s winter beauty and unique culture on your terms with one of these privately guided tours.

Northern Lights Circle Tour - Private

1217702 ISK

Winter Highlights - Private

Iceland luxury escape - winter, northern lights, south iceland & blue lagoon retreat.

1794264 ISK

South & West Iceland Classic Winter - Private

1220182 ISK

Local travel agency

As a travel agency with offices in Reykjavík, Edinburgh, Stockholm and Lucerne, Nordic Visitor knows how to make the most of your time in Europe. Choose from a variety of carefully curated tours that include must-see attractions as well as lesser-known highlights.

You can also make customisations to your itinerary by adding extra nights, optional activities, or upgrades to your tour. Or ask your personal travel consultant for advice and they will tailor your itinerary. This way you get a travel experience that is perfectly suited to you. 

Your dedicated travel consultant will arrange all the local details for you. You get accommodation, activities, transport, and other services included in your package. If you need to rework your itinerary, we’ll handle it for you so you can relax and look forward to your getaway.

Different ways you can experience Iceland

We have tours for all varieties of travel styles and interests. See our options for exploring Iceland below.

Guided Small Groups

Multi-day tours, privately guided, northern lights packages, self-drive winter, best seller, what do our customers say.

The reviews speak for themselves. See what Nordic Visitor travellers said about their experience with us.

Nathan, United States

South iceland at leisure - winter, december 2023.

We saw lots of waterfalls, beautiful landscapes and glaciers. We walked on black sand beaches and a glacier. It was incredible. All of the recommendations in our tour book gave us plenty of places to visit.

Michael, United States

South iceland classic - winter, november 2023, nothing short of phenomenal.

We loved everything about the tour and booking process. Normally, my wife and I would spend countless hours on research, rental cars, itinerary and hotels. To have that all done for us was well worth the price. The information packet provided at the airport was nothing short of phenomenal. The amount of suggestions, etc. provided gave us quite the list of things to choose from during our visit.

Sandra, United States

Northern lights circle tour - private, october 2023, smooth and enjoyable trip.

From the time of our first contact with Nordic Visitor, we have been expertly guided by our personal travel agent, Elena. We had lots of questions and changes, which she handled well, with timely communication, great suggestions, and excellent attention to details. Once in Iceland, our airport pick up and hotel were great, and very hospitable. For the private tour, our driver, Haflidi, was wonderful! He had a complete knowledge of the road and all the potential stops. His personal connections to many of the locations added a very individual dimension. He was extremely helpful, kind, and solicitous for our having a great Iceland adventure. Nordic Visitor made the whole trip smooth and enjoyable!

Meryl, United Kingdom

Golden circle classic - winter, december 2023, truly amazing.

We were first-time visitors to Iceland and a bit unsure of how to organise our trip to get the most from our short visit. Nordic Visitor took all of the uncertainty and organised everything on our behalf. The service was excellent and communications were always prompt, friendly and informative. Our holiday was truly amazing and memorable due to Nordic Visitor and the tour operators used by them. We would happily recommend Nordic Visitor and have already done so.

Christopher, Australia

Winter highlights - private, november 2023, warm and engaging guide.

Great tour. The sights are of course amazing and the tour made the most of our time, weather and our interests/priorities. Driver and guide David managed all of these very well. He was also very knowledgeable and personally warm and engaging. Could not have asked for more.

Mark, United States

Iceland full circle classic - winter, october 2023, nordic visitor made it easy.

Nordic Visitor made it easy to enjoy the natural wonders of Iceland without having to worry about any of the details! I was very impressed with the wonderful accommodation. Each unique and memorable in a different way. The itinerary booklet had the perfect balance of suggested plans and reference for optional stops. Thank you for the kind and helpful service!

Patricia, United States

Northern lights circle tour, november 2023, spectacular trip.

Spectacular trip! One beautiful vista after another. The tour progressed at a good pace and our guide, Haflidi, was so informative and handled every aspect with a smile and courteousness. I would, and have already, highly recommend this tour to everyone. A truly magnificent experience. Thank you Nordic Visitor! 

Zachary, United States

Active iceland - winter, november 2023, really enjoyed it.

We booked our trip for our honeymoon and enjoyed not having to worry about planning tours or forms of transportation. It was mostly organised and not stressful. We really enjoyed depending on Nordic Visitor.

Ina, Canada

Northern lights circle tour, march 2023, fantastic tour guide.

We thoroughly enjoyed every part of our tour package. Our tour guide, Dagur, was truly outstanding and did a fantastic job teaching us about Icelandic culture, geography, and history. I picked the small group tour option to avoid driving in the snow. When we reached eastern & northern Iceland and I saw the road conditions, I knew that I had made the right decision! Dagur was also an excellent driver who got us everywhere safely. I also want to make a special mention of my Nordic Visitor travel consultant, Margrét. She was very pleasant, organised and efficient in answering all my emails and arranging our travel plans.

Carmen, Canada

Golden circle & south coast - winter - private, november 2023, wonderful experience.

The Sky Lagoon and the two days spent with Julian as our guide, were the highlights of the trip. We thank Nordic Visitor for organising this, it was a wonderful experience for the whole family.

Virginia, United States

Glacier lagoon & northern lights, october 2023, we had a fantastic time.

We had a fantastic time and it was so nice to know that the details were arranged for us. The instructions were very clear in all instances. We loved the Sky Lagoon and the Katla Ice Cave tour which were extras, but very worthwhile! Thank you.

Colin, United States

A new year’s to remember, december 2022, we enjoyed everything.

We enjoyed everything! The hotel was excellent and very well located as most tours picked up just outside the hotel and many other points of interest were within a 10- to 20-minute walk. The Northern Lights tour was test of patience but we were lucky and saw a great show on the second night. The Golden Circle and glacier snowmobile was a test in endurance but extremely fun and satisfying. And the walking tour was very interesting and a different challenge, as the early morning snow and wind tested our resolve. Our group included a 10-year old, two folks in their 40s, and a 73-year old. All found it to be the trip to fill lifelong goals and memories.

Getting to Iceland

All of Nordic Visitor’s tours of Iceland begin in Reykjavík, the capital. Keflavik International Airport is the gateway for international air travel in Iceland and is served by dozens of airlines. Furthermore, the airport serves as a hub for Icelandair’s transatlantic flights.

The following airlines fly to Keflavik International Airport (KEF) year-round: Icelandair, SAS, KLM, Norwegian, British Airways, EasyJet, Wizz Air and Finnair. Other airlines offer seasonal flights to KEF, including Delta, United Airlines, Air Canada and Lufthansa.

We recommend checking airline websites directly for flight availability and timetables. You can also use an airfare search engine, such as Skyscanner, Dohop or Kayak, for example.

Flights are not included in Nordic Visitor packages. However, all of our itineraries can be customised with extra nights in Reykjavík if you’d like to rest up after your flight.

Travel Guide

Be prepared for just about anything on your Icelandic adventure.

What to pack

Iceland’s weather is as varied as its incredible landscape. Whether you're planning a...

Climate & weather conditions

Iceland enjoys a cool temperate maritime climate thanks to the Gulf Stream, but the...

Winter driving in Iceland

Driving in Iceland is likely to be different than what you’re used to back home, even if you’re...

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Enjoy the slow & stunning drift of azure icebergs ..

Mýrdalsjökull Glacier

A majestic ice cap along the south coast

An idyllic seaside paradise

Blue Lagoon

Relax in this wonderful man made lagoon

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT VISITING ICELAND IN NOVEMBER

Is November a good time to visit Iceland? Yes! What should I pack for a trip in November? What are the best things to do at that time of year? We’ve got you covered. Read on for the answers from our local travel experts to your most commonly asked questions.

How is Iceland in November?

November is a quiet month to visit Iceland as it falls during the winter, which is the off-peak season for tourism.

It is an ideal time if you want to experience the Icelandic winter, take part in snow-based activities like snowmobiling, or even hunt for the northern lights. Though the weather is colder at this time of year, you will also enjoy smaller crowds at top attractions.

What are the best things to do in Iceland in November?

Whether you want to enjoy an activity-filled break in Reykjavík or a cosy winter getaway in the countryside, a trip to Iceland in November is a fantastic experience.

Here are 10 of the best things to do in Iceland in November:

• Drive along the Ring Road
• Discover the famous Golden Circle
• Marvel at mighty waterfalls
• Hunt for the northern lights
• Dip in hot springs and pools
• Venture along the Snæfellsnes peninsula
• See geothermal wonders and volcanoes
• Go horse riding or on a whale watching tour
• Walk along unusual beaches
• Attend the annual Iceland Airwaves Music Festival

One of the coolest things to do in Iceland in winter is ice caving in Vatnajökull – the largest glacier in Europe. The caves are naturally formed every year as the glacial meltwater freezes, creating tunnels of ice that you can walk through safely with a guide.

There are more ways to enjoy the snow and ice in winter. You could go snowmobiling on the Langjökull glacier, or try snowshoeing through white landscapes and skiing down powdery slopes.

• Find out more about winter tours to Iceland and how to best experience snow and glaciers in Iceland
• Read about the best things to do in Iceland according to local experts

What are the best places to visit in Iceland in November?

• Explore the lively capital, Reykjavík
• Drive or join a day tour of the Golden Circle route, including the Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir hot springs area and Þingvellir National Park
• Visit the village of Vík to see the interesting rock formations of Dyrhólaey
• Watch icebergs bobbing on the Jökulsárlón   glacier lagoon
• Discover the lunar landscapes of the Lake Mývatn , area
• See the “Capital of North Iceland”, Akureyri
• Roam around the Snæfellssjökull National Park
• Venture “into the glacier” at Langjökull

To keep occupied whilst in the capital, you may want to explore some of these fun indoor attractions too:

• Learn about volcanoes at the Lava Centre
• Try a flight simulation experience with FlyOver Iceland
• Experience earthquakes and visit the planetarium at Perlan
• Looking for the best spots including hidden gems? Discover the 10 best places to visit in Iceland
• Browse these top-selling tours of Iceland to see the best places in one incredible trip

What is the weather like in Iceland in November?

When you travel to Iceland in November, the average temperatures are between 1°C (34°F) to 5°C (41°F).

At this time of year, you can expect some rain and strong northerly winds. In the mountains, it is likely to start snowing as well. For this reason, we recommend an insulated or down jacket for winter visits.

Iceland’s climate is unpredictable, so prepare for rain, wind and snow if you’re planning a trip for November.

What is the temperature in November?

In Reykjavík, the average temperature is 3°C (37°F) in March. In Akureyri, in the north, it is 1°C (34°F).

Does it snow in Iceland in November?

In November, the winter is starting to set in and so you can expect snow, but most likely rain.

Outside of the higher altitudes or parts of North Iceland, snowfall rarely stays on the ground longer than a few days. However, thanks to this, you may be able to admire the enchanting snow-covered peaks and countryside.

• Find out more about Icelandic winter with this weather and climate guide
• Not sure when to go to Iceland? This ultimate guide to the best times to visit will give you all the details

How are the driving conditions in Iceland in November?

Driving in Iceland is likely to be different than what you’re used to back home, especially in winter. Even if you’ve experienced snowy, icy conditions before, it’s best to be ready when taking on an Icelandic November road trip.

Winter storms can bring high winds, poor visibility and slippery surfaces. Driving over mountain passes can also require extra caution at this time of year. It’s best to slow down and be careful.

As the weather in Iceland is known to change rapidly, it's vital you monitor weather conditions regularly over the course of the day. It’s also good to check on road conditions before setting off each day.

For road trips in November, we would strongly suggest renting a 4-wheel drive as these vehicles handle the wintry conditions better.

• For more information, read this guide about winter driving in Iceland
• Browse self-drive tours in Iceland and learn more about rentals with this guide to 4x4s and cars in Iceland

What to pack for a trip to Iceland in November?

Iceland is famous for its ever-changing weather, so we advise that you be as prepared as possible. As November is a winter month, we recommend bringing warm layers to be ready for the cooler temperatures. That way you can enjoy the natural beauty of the country regardless of the weather.

Here is a list of packing essentials for your Iceland trip in November:

• An insulated jacket (it’s best if it is also waterproof)
• Fleece jumpers
• Lightweight wool underlayers
• Waterproof or winter trousers
• Thermal underwear and socks

As well as these essentials, be sure to bring good sturdy walking or hiking boots depending on what activities you may want to enjoy. Also, if you’re keen to experience the famous Blue Lagoon, remember to pack your swimwear and sandals.

What to wear in Iceland in November?

Icelanders have a saying: “There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing".

In November, you can expect colder weather, rain, northerly winds and even some snow. For that reason, you should dress with warm layers to be ready for anything. That way you can enjoy the beautiful sights without worrying about the temperatures and conditions.

Make sure to be dressed with an insulated winter jacket and warm under layers, as well as good sturdy boots.

It’s good to know that some outdoor excursions will provide the necessary winter clothing, such as warm overalls. But if you’d like to go snowmobiling, or on hiking or ice caving tours, make sure you’ve brought the clothing essentials with you, such as snow boots.

What are the daylight hours in Iceland in November?

In November, the days are growing shorter and shorter. At the beginning of the month, in Reykjavík, the sun rises around 9:12 AM and sets by 5:10 PM. In the north, in Akureyri, daylight hours are between 9:05 AM and 4:45 PM on average.

By the end of November, the capital sees daylight hours between 10:45 AM and 3:45 PM. In Akureyri, sunrise is around 10:55 AM and sunset at 3:05 PM.

Can I see the northern lights in Iceland in November?

The best time to see the northern lights in Iceland is between the months of October and March, so you’re in luck!

However, for the best visibility, you’ll need the right solar activity, a clear, dark night with few or no clouds, and low light pollution. You can check the Iceland Met Office’s aurora forecast page .

In November, you can book one of the many dedicated northern lights tours available in Iceland. These allow you to go to quieter and more remote areas to (hopefully) enjoy the spectacle. Or, you can always add a guided northern lights tour to the first night of another winter package.

• Discover northern lights packages to Iceland and other Nordic destinations
• For your best chance to see the auroras and capture them, read this northern lights guide to Iceland

How to tour Iceland in November?

There are various ways to travel on your Iceland tour in November. Depending on your personal preferences, you could either go for a guided or self-guided vacation.

Road trips in November Why not take a November self-drive tour around Iceland ? At this time of the year, you can still travel to some of the most famous sites of the country. Pick up your rental car and follow an itinerary tailored to your tastes.

For shorter stays, we recommend driving the Golden Circle or discovering South Iceland. If you have a week or more to spend in Iceland, drive around the Ring Road for a full loop of the country. This way you can visit virtually all the stunning corners of Iceland in one trip!

If you book with Nordic Visitor, you’ll benefit from collision damage waiver, unlimited in-car Wi-Fi, and a 24/7 helpline for emergencies. You also get two named drivers on the insurance policy so you can share the driving with a travel companion.

• Love the sound of a self-drive adventure? Find out more about winter self-drive tours and read how long it takes to drive around Iceland

Small group tours in November In November, you can choose from our winter  small group tours specifically aimed at giving you the best chances to see the northern lights.

You could discover the south coast with a 5-day winter highlights package, or explore the country on an epic northern lights circle tour.

A small group tour offers an enriching experience, allowing you to get the most out of your trip thanks to the expertise of a local guide. What’s more, you’ll be travelling alongside 16 people at most, so the trip is still personal for you.

Privately guided tours in November On the other hand, you might prefer to be accompanied by your own local expert throughout your Iceland experience.

A privately guided tour is one of the most exclusive ways to see Iceland. With these packages, you’ll enjoy the undivided attention of your own local guide. They’ll also act as your personal driver and give you a unique insight into Icelandic culture and history. Sit back, relax and take in the view.

You could discover the highlights of the south coast, take a specific northern lights adventure, or head on a tour of the country along the Ring Road. You can also add fun excursions along the way, such as visiting ice caves or going on glacier walks.

Multi-day tours in November Another way to see Iceland on an independent tour is to base yourself in one or two locations, such as Reykjavík and Akureyri. You can then explore Iceland’s highlights on day trips with expert guides.

For your time in Iceland’s capital, we recommend that you:

• Go to the top of Hallgrímskirkja Church
• Take a dip at a local swimming pool
• Walk along the coast
• Visit the Einar Jónsson Art Museum

Good to know: Most of our itineraries aren’t set in stone. Our Reykjavík-based Iceland experts know the country inside out and put their knowledge into planning your trip so it fits you. They’ll help you see Iceland your way, tailoring your itinerary and adding the best excursions to suit you.

• Find out more about visiting Iceland earlier, in August , September , or October
• Or visit Iceland later, in December , January or February

— OTHER DESTINATIONS

See more of northern europe.

• Want more road trip ideas? Venture to Scotland and Ireland
• Like stunning scenery and Viking history? Discover Scandinavia
• Want to stay in a hotel made of snow or ice? Head to Lapland
• Keen to go off the beaten track? Explore wild Greenland  and Svalbard

Our services

Whether you choose a guided tour or a self-drive vacation, all customers receive personalised service with a designated travel consultant , tailor-made quality travel documents, and our self-drive clients receive a hand-marked map that outlines their route, overnight stays and highlights along the way. Furthermore, Nordic Visitor has long-standing professional relationships with local tour operators , which are carefully selected by our staff and are recognized for consistent, quality service.

Book with confidence

• Protect your money & plans with our  flexible booking terms    .
• Get peace of mind with a 24/7 helpline during your stay.
• Enjoy personal service from Iceland-based travel experts.
• We’re here for you in case of unforeseen circumstances.
• 97% of customers say they’d recommend us to friends.
• As a local agency, we work closely with trusted suppliers.
• We’re a fully licensed and insured company in Iceland.

Whether you have queries about our tours or want to add activities to existing bookings, we’re here to help. Get in touch with our friendly team for any of your travel questions.

Our Icelandic phone number is +354 578 20 80

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

Blog posts you might like

Top 10 experiences to have in iceland, what to wear in iceland : your guide, driving iceland's ring road: all you need to know, in brief: spending a day in reykjavík.

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Best November Tours in Iceland

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Amazing 5-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package in Iceland with Ice Caving & the Blue Lagoon

Best Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull Glacier Starting from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Best 7-Day Northern Lights Self Drive Tour Through South Iceland to Jokulsarlon Ice Cave

Affordable 3 Hour Northern Lights Bus Tour with Transfer from Reykjavík

3-Day Northern Lights Tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle & South Coast with Ice Caving & Glacier Hiking

Small-Group 8-Hour Golden Circle Minibus Tour with Bruarfoss Waterfall & Kerid Crater from Reykjavik

Quick Blue Lagoon Shuttle Bus Transfer from Reykjavik

Northern Lights Super Jeep Tour with a Photographer Guide & Transfer from Reykjavik

Affordable 1-Hour Boat Tour of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Northern Lights Bus Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Skaftafell Glacier Hiking Tour on Vatnajokull

Golden Circle Small Group Minibus Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Snowmobile Tour on Langjokull Glacier with Transfer from Gullfoss Waterfall

Flybus Transfer from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik

The Golden Circle & the Blue Lagoon Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Small Group Tour of Snaefellsnes Peninsula with Transfer from Reykjavik

Small Group 10 Hour South Coast Tour with Waterfalls & Reynisfjara with Transfer from Reykjavik

Breathtaking 6-Day Northern Lights Hunting Package of Iceland with Ice Caving

The Reykjavik Whale Watching Tour

8-Day Guided Northern Lights Winter Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland

Affordable Blue Lagoon Transportation from Keflavik Airport

Snorkeling Tour Between Continents in Silfra with Free Underwater Photos & Snacks

Excellent 2.5 Hour Horse Riding Tour of the Volcanic Raudholar Countryside & Transfer from Reykjavik

Golden Circle ​& Snowmobiling Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Explore an unequalled wealth of tours and packages

Vacation Packages in Iceland

Self drive tours in iceland, tour calendar, nature tours in iceland, adventure tours in iceland, cheap bus tours in iceland, top tour destinations in iceland, verified customer reviews.

Read first-hand reviews by customers from across the world

Guojin Gong

Great experience! The tour guide (Kiki) is so helpful and told us a lot of stories along the road, making it fun and educations (for my 12-year-old girl). Definitely recommend!

Yew Ming Kong

It was a great experience. This tour really made the trip for us. AJ was our tour guide and he was extremely personable, experienced and insightful in ice cave and Iceland in general, being a local himself. He had lot of fun stories and facts, and kept us engaged right from the get go in the jeep ride. The ice cave was spectacular, we would never have learnt or experienced Iceland in this eyeopening manner if not for the tour. It was important because it was not only aesthetic, but also bore great responsibility on us to take care of the planet seeing how global warming is affecting nature. AJ gave us an extremely humorous and knowledgeable geology session after the ice cave. He has great photography skills on his Nokia too. Anyone would be lucky to have AJ as the tour guide. It would have been better if the time spent in the ice cave was longer as it was shorter than expected!

Thomas Schönwerth

We had a great time, staff was really friendly. Unforgettable Experience.

Jessica Lynas

It was lovely! I'd recommend it for anyone who doesn't want to do a 10 hours tour straight away. This is a lovely little taster of what Iceland can offer. 10/10

Visiting Iceland in November

Visiting Iceland in November is an invitation to experience the island's transition into the serene quiet of winter, with the added chance of witnessing the spectacular northern lights.

The landscapes are painted with the golden hues of autumn blending into the whites of the early snow, creating a striking contrast against the dark, volcanic rock. This time of year, you can enjoy the raw beauty of Iceland with fewer tourists, allowing for a more personal and introspective journey.

Despite the chill in the air, November in Iceland is warmed by the promise of adventure. The beginning of the ice cave season presents a unique opportunity to explore these crystal-blue wonders, and the snow-dusted terrains become a playground for snowmobiling, skiing, and snowboarding . The shorter days give way to longer nights, ideal for aurora hunting—a truly mesmerizing sight as the sky becomes a canvas for the dancing lights.

In Reykjavik, the cultural scene thrives with events like the Iceland Airwaves music festival, offering live performances from a mix of established artists and rising stars. Culinary enthusiasts can delve into the Icelandic palate with restaurants featuring seasonal produce and traditional dishes. Bathing in the geothermal waters, exploring the charm of the city's architecture, or delving into the rich tapestry of history and art in the museums are perfect ways to balance the cold outside.

November might bring the cold, but it's also filled with the warmth of Icelandic hospitality, making it an excellent time to visit and explore.

Frequently asked questions

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The 30 best holiday destinations in November

By Sarah James

November means winter is fast-approaching the UK , which equals getting up and going home in the dark, usually in the pelting rain, no winter coat on earth a match for the season’s creeping damp. It’s almost NHS-prescribed that you pick a November holiday destination to survive until the sunlight finally peeps through again around March . Happily, the Caribbean is basking in a mellow, pre-Christmas glow, while the rainy season has dried up in East Africa and South-east Asia. And if you want to see how winter is really done, leave behind our soggy isles for epic white-outs in the extreme north and south. So, without further ado, these are the 30 best holiday destinations in November. For more, see our guide to where is hot in November .

30 best holiday destinations in November

Lisbon, Portugal

Temperature : 20°C high; 12°C low Season : autumn Travel time from UK: 2 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

As most of mainland Europe shivers, Portugal remains enviably mild: Lisbon ’s average November temperature is 18°C. Of course, it’s not just the weather that makes this cobbled capital so alluring: now ranking among Europe’s coolest city breaks , it’s a hive of high-end but refreshingly affordable restaurants , raucous hole-in-the-wall bars and covetable concept stores (not to mention those cute, canary-yellow vintage trams). Lisbon was even named Europe's most budget-friendly city break for 2023 . Make time to explore neighbourhood-of-the-moment Cais do Sodré, a formerly sketchy part of town that now has a spruced-up riverfront promenade, cool warehouse conversions and fab food stalls at Time Out -curated Mercado da Ribeira.

Where to stay: Tropical-themed The Ivens gets our pick for one of the best new hotels in the world for 2022. If you're after a view, try this rooftop Airbnb near Alfama or Memmo Alfama which has one of the best rooftop pools in the city. For more, see our edit of the best hotels in Lisbon .

Sayulita, Mexico

Temperature: 33°C high; 20°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 15 hours Time difference: GMT -5

Join the hippies in this Pacific coast surf town, where brightly painted design boutiques and vintage surfboard shops rub up against al pastor stands and street eats sold from wheelbarrows. Less glam than Tulum , but much hipper than resort-y Puerto Vallarta further south, it’s an easy-breezy scene, more catching waves and afternoon Margaritas than yoga and cold-pressed juice. An absence of major hotels, in favour of hippie-chic guesthouses ( Casa Love and Petit Hotel Hafa are favourites), gives the impression of a best-kept secret – but, come Christmas, Sayulita is packed. Nip in just before peak season, though, and not only have the summer rain and humidity finally eased off, but it’s the best time for whale watching, too. Or consider staying in Sayulita’s quieter neighbour, San Pancho. The small hotels here are closely tied to the community. Tailwind Jungle Lodge , for example, hosts community events, donates to sustainable development in the area and promotes local businesses to guests – and it’s just a 30-minute drive to Sayulita for a day’s surfing.

Where to stay: Just 36 guests are given the run of green jungle, white beach and blue water across 250 acres at Imanta Resorts Punta de Mita .

Athens, Greece

Temperature : 18°C high; 12°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 3 hours 40 minutes Time difference: GMT+2

Athens makes a brilliant and warm weekend city break , where the new youth culture is breathing life into this historical city and hip young start-ups are booming in the face of austerity. Performances spaces, art galleries and quirky bars have sprung up in once-gritty neighbourhoods, and high-end shops have been reborn as restaurants. Go in November, when it's cool enough to wander around the Acropolis and the Parthenon and still have a crisp blue-sky backdrop to your Instagram shots. The fact that you'll also skip the crowds is the cherry on top.

Where to stay: Foodies won't want to miss xenodocheio Milos , a hotel by chef Costas Spiliadis. For something playful, check in to one of the compact but comfy rooms at Gatsby Athens . Design hotel NEW packs a punch, with upcycled furniture and a rooftop restaurant. For an eco-friendly trip, consider a stay at the Coco-Mat hotel , where the all-natural, locally handmade mattresses and linens are just the tip of their stay-natural philosophy. There are also wooden bikes for eco-friendly sightseeing, an onsite herb garden and homemade, seasonal food. For more, see our pick of the best hotels in Athens .

Antigua and Barbuda

Temperature: 29°C high; 23°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 8 hours 35 minutes Time difference: GMT-5

Friday nights in Antigua go something like this: rum punch and barbecued spiny-tailed lobster, dancing barefoot on the beach in the moonlight, and walking home sandy and dishevelled but happy the next morning. The island is as wild and wonderful as it is flashy - away from the five-star hotels and super yachts, you can still find empty white-sand beaches. Support conservation and biodiversity by booking an ecotour at Wallings Nature Reserve , the first-ever community-managed national park. Learn about the history and the wildlife as you hike this not-for-profit sanctuary. Antigua's little sister Barbuda is more go-slow, with a handful of low-key hotels.

Where to stay: We recommend Jumby Bay , a secluded 300-acre island off the north coast of Antigua.

The South Downs, England

Temperature : 11ºC high; 3ºC low Season: autumn/winter Time difference: none

Fairweather walkers should probably stick to summer. But for blustery yomps along the beach or over Downs, followed by local ales fireside in some toasty, well-restored boozer – which the area has in spades – autumn is a treat of a time for a South Downs weekender. South Downs National Park spans 165 conservation areas, more than a dozen European wildlife sites, and thousands of listed buildings and monuments, with the South Downs Way stretching 100 miles. The walk is broken up into short sections and is nicely signposted for cyclists and walkers. Visit The Sustainability Centre , which hosts workshops for children and adults throughout the year. And on 5 November it hosts the most spectacular Guy Fawkes’ Night anywhere, when the market town of Lewes becomes the bonfire capital of the world, with processions, fireworks displays, flaming tar barrels and burning effigies illuminating its streets.

Where to stay: At The Pig in the South Downs , featured on our 2022 hot list of the best new hotels in the world. We also love The Star , a wonderful 15th-century inn given a fresh makeover in 2021 by Olga Polizzi.

Temperature: 4°C high; -2°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 2 hours 50 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

November brings Iceland ’s dark winter nights and, with them, the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights. Oh yes, you’ll be told to manage your expectations, that aurora-hunting is a tricky business, but in a country where it’s not unheard of to see the dance of the green veils as you exit the airport, you’d have to be rather luckless to miss out. Stack the odds in your favour by staying somewhere as deliciously remote as Deplar Farm . Iceland’s best hotel is a high-end hideout on the remote Troll Peninsula , with diversions ranging from sensory-deprivation pods to heli-skiing excursions.

Where to stay: Scandi-rustic Deplar Farm is the most extraordinary stay in the country. The newly opened Reykjavik Edition is a great central option, with a notable rooftop terrace for viewing the northern lights. For something private, rent this unique glass cabin on Airbnb . See our guide to the best hotels in Iceland for more recommendations.

Phoenix, Arizona, USA

Temperature: 25°C high; 10°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 11 hours Time difference: GMT-8

Frank Lloyd Wright said Arizona deserved its own architecture; that the state invited a distinctive, desert aesthetic. So he set about scattering that legacy across the barren landscape from his winter home and studio, Taliesin West in Scottsdale – just outside the state capital, Phoenix, and perhaps the ultimate manifestation of mid-century Arizona style. So it was only a matter of time until Phoenix dropped its decades-long reputation as an arid, old-school spa town and adopted that of an edgy, visual arts hub. Inevitably, the hip young things descended, bringing cool and culture, too. Taliesin West is now an art museum and architecture school; downtown, Bentley Gallery at Bentley Projects shows exciting mid-career artists under the exposed pipes of a restored warehouse and former laundry. Today’s Phoenix is the sort of place to drink cocktails in an Art Deco landmark (Bitter & Twisted), before retiring to a fabulously retro hotel designed by a Wright protégé, once frequented by Marilyn Monroe and Cary Grant ( Hotel Valley Ho ). For the best view of the city, though, you’ve got to hike up red-rock Camelback Mountain – an easier proposal in November’s mid-20s temperatures.

Where to stay: We love The Phoenician , set across 250-acres of the Sonoran Desert. Or choose a hotel that takes advantage of their place in the ‘Valley of the Sun’ and using solar power, including The Phoenician and the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale .

Essaouira, Morocco

Temperature: 22°C high; 15°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 6 hours Time difference: GMT+0

For a blast of winter sun a short hop away, Morocco is ideal - even for a weekend break. Along the coast are windswept beaches and surf towns such as Taghazout and Tamraght, where it's all about chilling out in the sun. Essaouira is a feast for the senses: freshly-caught fish is grilled over smoking-hot coals in shacks right on the harbour, and shisha smoke rises from rooftop bars. Jimi Hendrix and Cat Stevens used to hang out here, and it's still a free-spirited place, with dozens of independent galleries and boutiques selling locally made pottery and crafts. Make time for a spot of ethical shopping. Mashi Mushki, which sells locally made art and crafts, donates a portion of profits to Project 91, which helps young people in Essaouira find employment. Swanky (and sustainable) boutique hotel Villa Maroc sells Argan oil made by a local cooperative.

Where to stay: At Didier Spindler's maximalist B&B Dar Adul . For something more romantically rustic try Villa Maroc or Auberge Tangaro .

Above: Reading room at Auberge Tangaro

Laura Fowler

Charlie Hobbs

Olivia Morelli

Connor Sturges

 Tenerife, Spain

Temperature : 23ºC high; 18ºC low Season: autumn Flight time from UK : 4 hours 30 minutes Time difference: none

Short-hop year-round sunshine is what Tenerife is known for. Which is great – but beyond the beaches and the package-holiday crowds, there’s another side to this Canary Island which delights the more curious traveller: architecture in the colonial towns of La Laguna and La Orotava, low-key restaurants in fishing villages such as Garachico, lunar landscapes to walk in its blackened interior, and contemporary art and architecture in the capital Santa Cruz. The waters around Tenerife are busy with whales, and with whale-watchers. Not all whale-watching trips are responsibly operated – check out their eco-certification first. Whale Wise Eco Tours use solar-powered electric boats to minimise noise and carbon footprint. Plus, 200 miles out in the Atlantic, the island is one of the best places in the world for stargazing .

Where to stay: Families love the pink palace that is The Ritz-Carlton Abama . For something more boutique, book a room with a terrace at La Laguna Gran Hotel.

Temperature: 30°C high; 21°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 7 hours 25 minutes Time difference: GMT+3

If what you want is a hit of winter sun, somewhere remote with wide open spaces, and just a short flight away from the UK, then Oman may just be the place you were looking for. Muscat is where you'll find age-old traditions, elaborate mosques and scent-filled souks. On the west coast, the Musandam Peninsula has empty coves and always-warm green-blue water, hidden by the imposing Hajar mountains. For more dramatic scenery still, travel along the southern coast, camping among the dunes in goat's-hair Bedouin tents. Choose an overland camping adventure with Responsible Travel that spirits you across the desert from the capital, Muscat, to incongruously green Salalah in the south. As well as visiting traditional fishing villages and learning about Bedouin life from local guides, you’ll stop by Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve and the Arabian Oryx Sanctuary.

Where to stay: The Chedi in Muscat is made up of low-built villas set in gardens of oranges. At Six Senses Zighy Bay, the pool villas embrace traditional Omani style and are carved out of stone. For a grown-up mountain retreat, try Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort , one of Oman’s most ambitious wilderness hotels.

Above: Zighy Bay, Oman

Namibia, Africa

Temperature : 31ºC high; 16ºC low Season: dry season/winter Flight time from UK : 10 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

The vast, remote landscapes of Namibia are some of the most magnificent on earth. Mountainous dunes, endless empty desert, untouched savannah where the big hitters of African wildlife roam: elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hippos, rhinos, giraffes. In recent years, a crop of knock-out new camps is allowing wildlife lovers to discover the farthest stretches of this country. While November brings the start of the rains in Namibia, this is not necessarily a bad thing when it comes to wildlife variety and sheer drama.

“Across most of southern Africa, November is an interesting month. It is a time of transition – giving travellers an amazing experience of the end of the dry season and the spectacular breaking of the rains,” says Chris McIntyre, founder of specialist tour operator Expert Africa . At the tail end of the dry season, wildlife gathers at the waterholes in places such as Etosha National Park. Then as the rains roll in, when storm clouds gather over the mountains and plains, the landscapes begin to bloom again.

“Swiftly following the greening of the land is a flush of new life, as more insects, reptiles, amphibians and migrant birds appear on the scene,” says McIntyre. And as it’s low season, prices are appealing low, too.

Where to stay: Many of Namibia’s incredible new lodges are eco-friendly with a minimal footprint and work with local communities and conservation groups. In the Huab River valley, Damaraland Camp is a pioneer of community-based tourism – a partnership between Wilderness Safaris and the local Torra Conservancy. Hoanib Valley Camp works with the local community and Giraffe Conservation Foundation. Expert Africa can arrange bespoke itineraries to Namibia. We also love Habitas Namibia , a wellness-focused, people-driven safari camp.

Verbier, Switzerland

Temperature: 3°C high; -6°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 1 hour 40 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

In Switzerland ’s Verbier, the emphasis is on fun. The smugly proficient can get their free-ride fix with the best back-country skiing in the Alps. The forever hopeless can just park their planks and whoop it up tobogganing instead. The apres scene is second-to-none: Farm Club has been a snooty institution for nearly half a century, with its haughty door policy and past guests including Diana Ross. And the hotels aren’t your average chalet set-up, belonging to the likes of Design Hotels and Small Luxury Hotels Group. Several lifts open in early November (weekends only), thanks to good snow cover at higher altitudes – your best chance to ski in and then ski the hell out before the high-season crush.

Where to stay: Paris-based cocktail crew The Experimental Group are behind speakeasy on the slopes Experimental Chalet .

New Zealand

Temperature: 22°C high; 12°C low Season : spring Flight time from UK: 24 hours Time difference: GMT+11

On New Zealand 's South Island, you can ski in the morning and sunbathe in the afternoon. It's action-packed, with wild swimming, white-water rafting, glacier hiking, bungee-jumping, sky-diving, horse-riding… On the North Island, you'll find hot springs – pure bliss – and off the coast of Auckland, some of the most amazing beaches you'll ever see. Take a couple of weeks out to do a classic campervan trip when the islands are at their most Middle Earth-y. New Zealand has its own breed of super lodges in superlative settings, from remote bays to rugged mountaintops and beside lakes so enormous and awe-inspiring it's difficult to comprehend. Visit the small seaside town of Kaikoura, not far from Christchurch, is widely hailed NZ’s most sustainable spot. Known for its resident sperm whale population and regular blue whale sightings, the town has established a community trust, Whale Watch, owned by the local Maori people. Not only is this a multi-award-winning, responsible whale-watching operator, but it reinvests profits in community education and employment, and the local environment. Check out the brilliant Hapuku Tree Houses and Lodge too, with locally sourced food, composting and recycling programmes, salvaged interiors and a native tree-planting scheme.

Where to stay: Matakarui Lodge in Queenstown is the country’s favourite lodge.

Above: Scrubby Bay, Akaroa

Kerala, India

Temperature : 31ºC high; 24ºC low Season: dry season/winter Flight time from UK : 10 hours Time difference: GMT+4.5

November marks the beginning of Kerala's dry season and the end of the monsoons, which bring God’s Own Country bursting forth in verdant green, from its palm-lined lakes to the richly biodiverse slopes of the Western Ghats. This is India at its most chilled, its sandy shores quieter than those in Goa , and the scent of Ayurvedic oils in the air. Exploring is a hassle-free delight here – pootling around the backwaters by boat for an insight into local life, or hiring a motorbike to seek out new beaches, or putting up at homestays with families.

Where to stay: The quiet colonial streets of Fort Cochin – one of the most charming places on the entire planet – are home to many lovely places to stay. One of the loveliest is Malabar House , Cochin’s original boutique hotel, arranged riad-like around a courtyard pool. Now their properties include a houseboat on Lake Vembanad.

Valletta, Malta

Temperature : 20°C high; 13°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK: 3 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

Down in the southern Med, between Sicily and the North African coast, November does not mean gloomy dark afternoons and morning frosts. Even though you might spot the odd red telephone box, that’s as far as the British influence extends – sunny Malta gets eight hours of shimmering rays a day this month, while the mercury floats, or perhaps gloats, at around 20°C. Better still, this is a European autumn sun break with more going for it than beaches (though it has those, too). Capital Valletta’s honey-coloured forts are so cinematically good-looking, they starred in Game of Thrones as King’s Landing, and the old town’s palazzos are lately finding new life as high-design hotels, such as millionaire philanthropist Mark Weingard’s upcoming Iniala Malta.

Where to stay: 66 Saint Paul’s on balconied Ursula Street has a tiny rooftop pool. Another option is Domus Zamittello , a restored baroque masterpiece with painted coffered ceilings.

Temperature : 23°C high; 8°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 12 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT+4:45

November is the optimum time for trekking in the Himalayas: it's not too hot, the sky is clear enough to see where you're going, the peaks and high passes are clear enough for trekking, and it's the tail-end of high season. (Note: porters are a common feature of Himalayan trekking, and while this does provide much-needed employment to impoverished rural Nepalese people, you must ask tour operators about policies on porters’ rights, and check the weight of loads they’re expected to carry: 25kg is the recommended maximum). Whichever route you're taking – the Annapurna Circuit and Everest are breathtakingly beautiful at this time of year – you're likely to pass through Kathmandu. The gateway city is a remarkable place to spend a few days in before or after trekking: for the Buddhist monasteries and stupas, gardens, enchanting old buildings and colonial air, shopping and the insanely good street food.

Where to stay: Dwarika's Hotel in Kathmandu has become the stuff of legend among wellness-seekers.

Temperature : 26°C high; 13°C low Season : autumn Travel time from UK : 5 hours 30 minutes Time difference : GMT +2

November ushers in Egypt ’s mild winter, more akin to a good summer in England : Cairo this time of year basks in an average temperature of 25°C. It’s ideal weather for exploring the Pyramids of Giza, just a half-hour drive from the chaos of Cairo’s downtown. Tempted to take a boat trip down the Nile? Resist the big cruises, which are notorious for pollution, and opt for a small group sailing excursion on a traditional felucca instead.

Where to stay: At one of Cairo’s most prestigious hotels; the Nile Ritz-Carlton or the The St. Regis Almasa .

Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon, USA

Temperature: 21°C high; 2°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 10 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT-8

There's nothing more dazzling than the firework-bright lights of The Strip at night. Nothing more tempting than the red and black flashes of a spinning roulette wheel. Nowhere more excessive, high-octane and brilliantly bonkers than here. And what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. Then get the hell out of Vegas on a road trip from here down to New Mexico, through the canyons of Utah via the awesome Grand Canyon. Many national parks have Native American reservations nearby: an area allocated to indigenous people removed from their ancestral lands to make way for the park. If possible, visiting these reservations with a community guide is a great way to learn about the landscape’s history and support their economy. In the Grand Canyon, it’s possible to hike down from the rim into the remote Supai village, home to the Havasupai tribe for more than 1,000 years. Here there’s a campground, lodge, store and café – attempting to hike in and back within a day is not encouraged – but you must reserve in advance to enter.

Where to stay: At Resorts World Las Vegas , the first new resort to be built on the Las Vegas Strip in more than a decade.

Temperature: 29°C high; 21°C low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 10 hours Time difference: GMT-5

Time’s running out to get to Cuba before it’s changed forever. The big resorts haven’t got to all the beaches yet, and Havana still has that rickety, time-warp romanticism going on – but for how long? Warm and sunny November is the ideal time to swing by before crowds fill out December to February. The silver lining? A fast-evolving boutique bar and hotel scene, catering to a more sophisticated traveller: in Havana, the colonial-cool of Twenties-era Casa Habana, or cocktails at 304 O’Reilly, a toy warehouse turned gin bar. Make time to escape to the Caribbean shores of Holguín, where you’ll find small, thatched, barefoot beach hotels with not a hint of a package deal.

Where to stay: Beach-front Villa Maguana is set in the Guantánamo Province of Cuba.

Temperature : 18°C high; 5°C low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 22 hours Time difference : GMT-4

A wild frontier, Patagonia is the vast and empty tip of South America . For every photogenic massif and glacier, there’s about a million more miles of desolate, scrubby steppe. Finding the glimmering diamonds in the rough is half the satisfaction, though: Welsh tea shops, teal lakes and crackling glacial tongues in Argentine Patagonia; then puma-tracking safaris and unforgettable treks in Chilean Patagonia’s Torres del Paine National Park, accompanied by the unearthly trio of granite peaks that give this rugged wonder its name. Mid- September to early May is the established season; December to February bring hiking hordes. Nip in during November when mild temperatures are ideal for outdoor adventure and spring’s a-blooming. Torres del Paine rewards the effort with several polished overnight options: try the geodesic domes of EcoCamp, or lakeside five-star humdinger Explora, which has views you’ll struggle to believe However, due to a lack of rules around land sales, large swathes of Patagonia have been bought up and turned over to either heavy industry or unscrupulous developers. This isn’t just bad for the natural landscape, but also for the Indigenous peoples for whom this environment is sacred. Make sure to visit national parks and local communities so that your money goes towards the right people and projects. Tour operators such as BlueGreen Adventures employ regional guides and source from locally owned businesses.

Where to stay: The Lodge at Valle Chacabuco is the smartest stay in Parque Patagonia.

Above: Lake Pehoé, Torres Del Paine National Park in Chile.

Temperature: -20°C low; -4°C high Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 13 hours Time difference: GMT-8

“There are no guarantees in life but elk and taxes,” says the Yukon tourist board — but the chances of catching the Northern Lights in this Canadian hinterland are comfortably high. That’s because it’s such a stark wedge of territory — tundra and forests, lakes and mountains, the same size as Spain but home to just 40,000 hardy locals — creating ideally remote, unpolluted conditions for watching those elusive lights dance across the sky. November is considered the beginning of aurora season in most destinations, with some Scandinavian spots not fully open until December, but the Yukon’s nightly shows start as early as August. Still, with enough snow for days of dog-sledding, temperatures have yet to plunge to the fearsome depths of January and February (averaging -22C).

Where to stay: Tagish Wilderness Lodge is in a prime spot for viewing the northern lights. As are the glass chalets at the Yukon River Valley’s Northern Lights Resort & Spa .

Above: Aurora Borealis over the city of Whitehorse, with Gray Mountain and shooting star, Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada.

Temperature: -1°C high; -15°C low Season: summer Flight time from UK: 19 hours Time difference: From GMT-3 to GMT+12, depending on the area

Where better than the Great White South for a wintry getaway? Snowscapes don’t get more epic than Antarctica ’s, a bright-white wilderness so pure, you’d swear it’s CGI. A trip to the end of the world is far from barren, though. Keep busy gaping at far-off, frosted summits and colossal, mint-blue icebergs; snapping breaching orcas and stumbling penguins; not to mention getting jelly-legged on homemade Ukrainian vodka at the world’s southernmost pub. Expedition boats visit the peninsula November to March, when the Antarctic summer makes penetrating pack ice possible (temperatures hover around a toasty 1C). Landings get progressively muddier and boot-blighted as the season wears on; find the freshest powder in November, the first time tourism touches the continent after a seven-month break. Just make sure your tour operator is registered with IAATO, the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators. Membership demands strict adherence to a code of conduct that is respectful of both the landscape and its wildlife.

Where to stay: At Whichaway Camp , on the edge of an ice lake – one of the most exclusive places to stay on the planet.

Colorado, USA

Temperature: 14°C high; -5°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 10 hours Time difference: GMT-7

In the likes of California , Arizona and Texas , the dusty desert cities have gone hipster; in Colorado, its cute little mountain towns are wending the same way. Telluride’s Victorian streets are now packed with fancy tacos, craft cocktails and bespoke ski shops; Boulder has bicycle cafés with taprooms and espresso bars; Aspen is still Aspen, glamorous and pricey, and resolutely on-trend (farm-to-table restaurants, speakeasies). High up in the Rockies , ski season has started, the towns have recovered from summer madness, but the December masses are yet to invade.

Where to stay: Dunton Hot Springs is a former ghost town and natural hot spring that sets the bar for glamping.

Above: Longs Peak, Longmont, Colorado.

Seoul, South Korea

Temperature: 12°C high; 2°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 11 hours Time difference: GMT+8

Seoul is an exciting city break with just the right mix of ease and exoticism: transport and general infrastructure are both exemplary, and there are also enough Confucian temples and dog cafés to keep a curious foreigner on their toes. South Korea ’s flourishing economy has made its capital a hi-tech, high-design hub, positively pulsing with dynamic and fashionable youth culture. But the remnants of more austere and traditional times remain: cobbled streets and classic architecture , eccentric flea markets and scent-filled street-food alleys. November’s autumn colours make perfect portraits of Seoul’s many parks and hiking trails, while mild temperatures and low rainfall create a sweet spot for pavement-pounding (summer is wet and humid, the winter frigid).

Where to stay: The Shilla Seoul is a flawless blend of East and West.

Above: Changdeokgung, South Korea.

Andalucia, Spain

Temperature: 20°C high; 10°C low Season : autumn Flight time from UK: 2 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

November is a wonderful month for a short break in southern Spain, when the summer crowds have gone home and it's still T-shirt weather. Cádiz is a charming place, hanging off the edge of Spain, bleached white and with the sound of flamenco in the air. A hip new hotel scene is putting Seville in the limelight but still both cities are quieter than touristy Granada and Córdoba. Beyond Marbella's beach clubs, head out to the Sierra de las Nieves national park to go swimming in natural rock pools and kayaking on the dam. Málaga has carved itself a new reputation, with an offshoot of Paris' Pompidou Centre, a glassy cube on the dockside, joining The Picasso, Carmen Thyssen and Contemporary Art museums.

Where to stay: Hacienda Finca Cortesin is one of Europe's smartest places to escape to. For more, see our guide to the best haciendas in Andalucia, Spain .

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Temperature: 25°C high; 17°C low Season: spring Flight time from UK: 13 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT-4

STEAK! TANGO! WINE! FOOTBALL! SHOES! Yes, Buenos Aires is the indisputable heartland of red meat, and red wine (don't tell the French). It's a colourful place: leafy in the north, with faded townhouses fronting beautiful Italianate façades in the south and bright and bold houses in La Boca near the old port. In San Telmo, the rhythm of tango is unmistakable. And the barrio of Boca is so crazy about football even the houses are painted in home colours. But it's a little-known fact that the Argentine city also has some of the best shopping in the world now that creatives are setting up on their own and opening concept stores in Palermo's crumbling casonas.

Where to stay: At timeless, belle époque Palacio Duhau .

Temperature: 24°C high; 19°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 11 hours 55 minutes Time difference: GMT+7

November is a great month to go to Hong Kong. It's not too steamy for sundowners in one of the rooftop bars overlooking Victoria Harbour, which lights up at 8pm every night for a light show; or for moseying around Chinatown. Foodies are spoilt for choice here, but make like the locals at street-food stalls in Wan Chai. Shopping and art are big business too. What's surprising, though, is the choice of beautiful beaches and hiking trails on surrounding islands such as Lantau and Lamma.

Where to stay: At swish Rosewood Hong Kong , right on the city's harbour.

Temperature : 31°C high; 20°C low Season : winter Flight time from UK: 7h Time difference : GMT +3

November is the start of proper winter in the UK, so you can’t be blamed for craving a dose of serious sunshine. Dubai is a clever contender – far enough away that the weather is almost guaranteed to be perfect but close enough to home that you won’t be struck down with jet lag for the entirety of your stay. Of course, there are glitzy hotels and beach clubs drawing in visitors. But there’s a lesser-known side to the city, too – some of our favourite things to do in Dubai include having supper in the desert at Sonara, where wood-fired pizzas and cocktails are served among the dunes and the opportunity to go on a desert safari, with Platinum Desert Safari.

Where to stay: Book into new opening Atlantis the Royal – a bells-and-whistles stay that bills itself as “the most ultra-luxury experiential resort in the world”.

Temperature : 18°C high; 12°C low Season : autumn Flight time from UK: 14h 25m Time difference : GMT +8

Spring in Japan gets a lot of airtime. But for those in the know, autumn is every bit as beautiful as the trees flame into burnt orange and glorious red hues. In the capital, spend days hopping between Tokyo’s best restaurants and art galleries before catching one of the super-efficient trains to Kyoto, where the temples are surrounded by beautiful autumn foliage, or Osaka, where you can visit beautiful landscapes such as Minoo Falls. Just north of Tokyo, Nikko has World Heritage-listed temples and widescreen views of burnished gold and orange.

Where to stay: There are big hitters in Tokyo such as the Aman and the Mandarin Oriental . Try the Ace in Kyoto , or book the St Regis Osaka , which is spread across the top 16 floors of a skyscraper.

Stockholm, Sweden

Temperature : 6°C high; 2°C low Season : winter Flight time from UK: 2h 40m Time difference : GMT +1

This is not the destination for a blast of sunshine and heat. But it can't be denied that some cities are simply better in winter . Toward the end of the month, you might get snow – and the city looks especially lovely when dusted with a frosting of white. You can eat at some of the world's best restaurants , such as Frantzen if you're planning to splash the cash, and you'll also find some of the best bars in the world here, too . Lucy's Flower Shop is set in the basement of a centuries-old building and serves up some of the city's best cocktails.

Where to stay: Ett Hem is an ultra-stylish townhouse hotel that's been drawing discerning travellers since 2012.

25 Best Things to Do in Iceland, Glacier Lagoons and Volcano Treks Included

Experts recommend how to explore the Nordic country.

There are few places in the world quite as magical as the country of Iceland . From natural wonders like Gullfoss Waterfall and the Northern Lights to the buzzing culinary scene and fascinating history and culture of this Nordic island, Iceland has much to offer travelers.

If you’re planning a trip to the land of fire and ice, it can be challenging to narrow down what sights and activities to put on your itinerary. I experienced this myself when I planned a hot springs tour around the country a couple of years ago; this time, I turned to the pros for advice. 

Travel + Leisure spoke with three local experts to gather their thoughts on the best of Iceland. Davíð Logi Gunnarsson, head guide of Nordic Luxury , shared his favorite museums, food and drink, and outdoor activities to check out; Dofri Hermannsson, expert hiking guide and owner of Reykjavik Erupts , shared top hikes to tackle and small businesses to frequent; and Aggi Sverrisson, executive chef at Moss Restaurant at the Retreat , offered restaurant and bar recommendations for every type of occasion. Without further ado, here are 25 of the best things to do in Iceland. 

Related : The Perfect Three-day Weekend in Iceland

The National Gallery of Iceland

The National Gallery of Iceland is located in the heart of downtown Reykjavik and has more than 14,000 pieces in its expansive collection. The gallery features 19th-, 20th-, and 21st-century works celebrating and preserving Icelandic culture, and there is a large variety of international art as well. “From traditional to contemporary works, [The National Gallery of Iceland] offers a captivating glimpse into the nation’s creative heritage,” says Sverrisson.

The Akureyri Art Museum

The Akureyri Art Museum is located in the center of Iceland’s second-largest city, and its collection focuses solely on visual arts. Showcasing work from both local and international artists, the museum serves as a cultural hub for the artistic community in North Iceland. Explore the museum at your own pace or visit on a Thursday, when guided tours are available.

Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum

Fermented shark is one of Iceland’s most unique culinary traditions, and you can take a deep dive into the connection between Iceland and Greenland sharks at the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum . Located in West Iceland on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, this museum highlights the destination's long history of shark fishing, the fermentation process, and the importance of these predators to Icelandic culture. You can even try fermented shark yourself here.

National Museum of Iceland

This museum showcases paintings, statues, and other artifacts from Iceland’s storied past. It’s located within walking distance from Reykjavik's center and is the perfect way to spend a rainy day or lazy afternoon in the city.

“A local favorite, this restaurant is tucked away on the western edge of Reykjavik and is surrounded by the sea in a nature reserve,” says Gunnarsson. “It’s cozy, and the menu emphasizes locally sourced ingredients while drawing inspiration from the simplicity of Italian cuisine.” While the restaurant is great to visit any time of year, winter can bring the backdrop of a lifetime, when you might see the Northern Lights right from your table.

Moss Restaurant

Moss is a fine-dining restaurant located inside The Retreat at the Blue Lagoon in Grindavík. The restaurant's innovative tasting menu features the best of Icelandic meat and produce, and it was awarded its first Michelin star earlier this year. With breathtaking views of the mystical Blue Lagoon, a meal at Moss makes for an unparalleled culinary experience.

Monkeys is the perfect place to kick off a lively night out in Reykjavik. Located near the popular Laugavegur street, the eclectic Nikkei restaurant boasts bright and colorful decor that complements the exotic dishes and spectacular cocktails it serves. “The Peruvian Japanese-inspired menu showcases a large selection of small dishes and tasting menus bursting with flavors that celebrate the palate,” says Gunnarsson.

Pakkhús Restaurant

For some of the best seafood in the country, head to Pakkhus Restaurant in Höfn. Set in a converted warehouse along the harbor, the unpresuming restaurant features a top-class menu focused on fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Sverrisson notes that the restaurant’s specialties include unique langoustine creations, so make sure to add one or two fresh lobster dishes to your order.

Kaffibarinn

One of the oldest bars in the city, Kaffibarinn is a staple of Reykjavik’s nightlife scene. During the day Kaffibarinn operates as a coffee shop, but at night tourists and locals alike flock here for the high-energy DJ sets, the hip atmosphere, and of course to dance all night long. “This is the place to see and be seen,” Gunnarsson says.

Accoridng to Sverrisson, Port 9 is "A pioneer in Icelandic wine culture.” Tucked away on a quiet residential street in Reykjavik, the intimate wine bar has an unbeatable selection of international wines, plus small bites to nibble on between pours. The inviting ambiance of the wine bar makes it the perfect spot for a date night or small group tasting.

Even though it’s located on the busy Laugavegur street, this cozy bar feels more sophisticated than your typical brewery. “[Kaldi] is popular with locals and offers a great selection of Icelandic microbrews,” says Gunnarsson. “This place is bustling every evening, so be early.”

Grotta Lighthouse

Escape the city lights with a leisurely hike from downtown Reykjavik to the Grotta Lighthouse on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula. “On a summer evening, it is great to hike from Harpa Conference Hall towards the lighthouse,” says Hermannsson. Stunning sunsets are a treat in the summer, and in the winter months the clear skies are perfect for watching the Northern Lights.

If you have access to a car, Hermannsson recommends driving to the base of Mount Esja , which is located about 50 minutes outside of Reykjavik in the southwest region of Iceland. Arrive ready for a heart-pumping hike at this year-round spot. There are many different hikes to choose from, and signage along the way to keep you on the path that best suits your experience level. Once you reach the nearly 3,000-foot summit, you can take in the jaw-dropping views of the city, the bay, and beyond.

Litli-Hrútur Volcano

Hiking a volcano is one of the most thrilling adventures you can embark on in Iceland, and Litli-Hrutur is the newest eruption. This particular hike is no easy trek, and since conditions are ever-changing, make sure you’re adequately prepared if you want to make the journey. “For a full experience, hire a local expert guide who knows everything about the volcanic activity of the Reykjavik area," says Hermannsson. "It really makes the Earth come alive under your feet."

Landmannalaugar

“ This otherworldly landscape captivates even the most experienced hiker,” Gunnarsson says of Landmannalaugar. “Located in the highlands of Iceland, the colorful mountains, hot springs, and steam vents in this unique place provide an unforgettable landscape and a silence that only a few have experienced in nature.” The best time to visit is mid-June to mid-September, when the long summer days allow you to take in as much of the boundless beauty of the reserve as you can.

Þjórsárdalur

Scenic views take on a new meaning on this hike alongside Þjórsá, Iceland’s longest river. The breathtaking trek leads to Háifoss, one of the tallest and most dramatic waterfalls in Iceland. Along the way you’ll encounter much more natural beauty, including the Búrfell Forest and Fossalda mountain.

Kaffitar is a small coffee chain with four cafes located around Reykjavík. Founded in 1990 by Adalheidur Hedinsdottir, the company is now one of the leading coffee names in Iceland, in part thanks to its emphasis on nurturing relationships with the farmers who supply its coffee beans. “[Hedinsdottir's] specialty coffee and the original cafe she opened were a hit, and now she runs several cafes, still getting her beans directly from farmers in South America," says Hermannsson.

Skool Beans

Skool Beans is Iceland’s smallest micro-roaster. On the southern coast of Iceland inside a classic yellow school bus, you will find this unique café in the small town of Vík. “The rustic ambiance, as well as the exemplary coffee and chocolates, make for the best casual conversations with fellow travelers,” notes Gunnarsson.

Reykjavík Röst

What better way to start your morning than a cup of coffee with a great view? Located near the water on the Old Harbor, Sverrisson dubs Reykjavik Röst “one of the best coffee shops” in the city. “It offers all your standard coffee drinks, as well as maple sage lattes, keto coffee, and magic mushroom coffee. It also has a great selection of Icelandic cakes and traditional pastries, as well as amazing views.”

Blue Lagoon

This geothermal spa has gained international fame as a modern wonder of the world. Located in a black lava field in Grindavik, visitors can soak in the milky-blue waters known for their healing properties due to the silica and sulfur found in the water. Just 15 minutes from the Keflavik Airport, it’s the perfect activity right after landing or just before leaving Iceland

Hallgrímskirkja

One of Reykjavík's most historic landmarks, this gorgeous church rests on top of a hill in the center of Reykjavik and stands out due to its height and distinctly shaped spire and side wings. Built to resemble basalt columns, the 244-foot church is the tallest in Iceland, and in addition to operating as a church it serves as an observation deck. “My favorite way to visit is to go up the bell tower and take in the panoramic views of the city from the observation windows,” says Gunnarsson.

Set on the coastline of Reykjavik, Sólfar (or Sun Voyager) is a striking sculpture meant to serve as an ode to the sun. Created by Jon Gunnar Arnason, the stainless steel sculpture was inspired by world expeditions and symbolizes light, hope, and the promises of undiscovered territory. Check out the artwork at sunset for a stunning view that will leave you just as inspired as Arnason was when he created this masterpiece.

“Awe-inspiring in its perfect conical shape, this ancient volcano sits like an island of greenery in a vast field of black sands and glacial streams,” says Gunnarsson. Standing more than 2,500 feet above the highlands of Southern Iceland, Mælifell is a monstrous volcano and an ode to Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes. It's a must-see for adventure seekers, but note that due to its remote location, Mælifell is only accessible in the summer months. Those who manage to make it to this natural wonder will marvel at its truly majestic setting.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón is Iceland’s most famous glacier lagoon, with massive icebergs looming over Jökulsárlón lake. “This is one of Iceland’s most popular landmarks, and it's the deepest lake in the country,” notes Sverrisson. “It’s located on the south coast and offers awe-inspiring views of floating icebergs, black-sand beaches, seals, and so much more.”

Grjotagja Cave

This small lava cave is a hidden gem on Iceland’s famed Ring Road. Located near Lake Myvatn, the inconspicuous hideout is known for the bubbling geothermal hot springs found inside the cavern walls. The jagged rocks and turquoise waters make Grjotagja a hauntingly beautiful landmark to visit.

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The 18 best places to see the northern lights.

Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list.

The Best Places for the Northern Lights

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The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

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Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

• Central and northern Alaska
• Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
• Southern Greenland
• Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

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