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These Are the Best Times to Visit Iceland

Here are the best times to visit Iceland for ideal weather, fewer crowds, and more.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Over the last decade, Iceland has become one of Europe's "it" destinations thanks to its ethereal — and highly photogenic — landscapes featuring ancient glaciers and rugged fjords.

Before you book your flight to this popular island nation, you'll want to think about everything you want to see and do on your trip because the time of year can determine what's available. Some attractions, like Iceland's famous hot springs , are open all year, while natural phenomena like the northern lights and midnight sun are best viewed during specific months. Here's a breakdown of the tourist seasons in Iceland:

• High Seasons:  June to August and late December
• Shoulder Seasons:  September to October and May
• Low Season:  November to April, excluding holidays

Read on to learn about the best time to visit Iceland for whale watching, northern lights spotting, and more.

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit Iceland for Smaller Crowds

The busiest months in Iceland are June, July, and August, when most natural attractions are open and easily accessible. Iceland can stay relatively warm through the first week of October, so planning a September visit can be ideal since most crowds have thinned as children return to school. May, too, provides ample daylight for sightseeing, warmer temperatures, and fewer crowds.

The off-season between November and April is ideal for those looking to escape the hordes of tourists, as long as you don't mind the dark (by mid-winter, expect only five or six hours of daylight). Though some roads are closed, it's a glorious time to enjoy hot springs, backcountry skiing, and tours by snowmobile or jeep. You'll also have a better chance of spotting the northern lights. Tourism tends to pick up again during the holiday season, so avoid December if you're looking for a crowd-free vacation.

Courtesy of Visit Iceland

Best Times to Visit Iceland for Good Weather

During the summer months — July and August — the temperature in Iceland hovers around 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a popular time to visit. And June, with its 24 hours of daylight, sees just about as many tourists as the peak of summer. But even during this season, rain and intense wind are not uncommon. The island's fickle climate often means you can experience all four seasons in a single day.

The weather remains pleasant in September, with temperatures between 43 and 52 degrees Fahrenheit. May is similar, but if you're keen on exploring some of the more remote hills and fjords, it might not be the best time to visit, as some roads remain closed while they thaw from winter's snowy cover. For serious hikers, the best time to visit Iceland is during the summer, when all the mountain roads and famous trails are open and accessible.

Best Times to Visit Iceland for Lower Prices

Getting to Iceland can be relatively affordable, especially compared to other European destinations. Travelers from the United States and Europe frequently find flight deals — keep an eye out for sales on Icelandair and low-cost airline Play to save even more on your journey.

Accommodations, tours, attractions, and meals can be pretty pricey throughout the year, but you might be able to save money by visiting during the off-season, which is typically late fall through early spring, excluding December. Summer is usually the most crowded and expensive time to visit.

Best Time to Visit Iceland for the Northern Lights

You'll need three essential factors to see the aurora borealis: darkness, clear conditions, and a surge in solar activity. The northern lights are often elusive and can easily be marred by transient clouds. To avoid disappointment, travelers should never plan their trip to Iceland solely for the northern lights because the island's weather is too capricious (statistically, there are more clear nights in Yellowknife, Canada , for example.) The best way to optimize your chances of seeing the northern lights in Iceland is by visiting from mid-October through March, when you have extended hours of darkness, and by getting out into the countryside to reduce ambient light pollution.

Best Time to Visit Iceland for Whale Watching

According to Icelandic marine biologist Edda Elísabet Magnúsdóttir, the peak months to go whale watching in Iceland are June and July. During the summer, Reykjavík sees higher numbers of minke whales and dolphins, while orcas congregate in West Iceland along the Snaefellsnes peninsula during the first half of the year.

In northern Iceland, you'll have a wider window to enjoy visits from humpbacks, minkes, and dolphins, which ply the Atlantic from May to August; a few humpbacks even stick around until the end of the year. Blue whales pass through in the summer, too. For best results, head to the charming small town of Húsavík , where you can spot more than 20 species of whales on boat tours that leave from the harbor.

Best Time to Visit Iceland's Hot Springs

Hot springs are intrinsic to Icelandic culture for social as well as wellness benefits. Reykjavík's public pools are open year-round (and are especially invigorating during the dead of winter), but Iceland also has hundreds of hidden "hot pots" that tap directly into the geothermal activity under its lava-ridden surface.

Expert Icelandic mountaineer and cofounder of Midgard Adventure , Sigurdur Bjarni Sveinsson, offers the following advice for hot water hunters: "Check them out during September or, even better, the first half of October, when they're all still accessible by mountain road, but the crowds of tourists have significantly died down."

For travelers who want to visit the Blue Lagoon , the most famous geothermal spa, the best time to visit is during the off and shoulder seasons, when crowds are thinner.

Worst Time to Visit Iceland

Thanks to Iceland's stunning landscapes and seasonal natural phenomena, there's really no bad time to visit. Northern lights seekers flock to the country during the darker winter months, while visitors chasing more daylight opt for summer. Of course, those traveling in the spring and fall can take advantage of more moderate weather and daylight, so the best time to visit Iceland depends on what you want to see and do during your trip.

That said, the warmest months of the year are easily the worst time to visit if you're hoping to avoid the onslaught of tourists. July and August see the highest number of travelers, with big-ticket attractions like the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, South Coast, and Jökulsárlón being particularly overrun. If you're planning to visit during that time, consider exploring more remote corners of the island like the Westfjords or East Iceland, which have their own cache of fjords, vistas, and waterfalls that are just as impressive as the natural attractions surrounding the capital — if not more.

When is the best time to visit Iceland in 2024?

Mar 7, 2024 • 5 min read

Summer is the best time to take an Iceland road trip © Klaus Vedfelt / Getty Images

There’s no such thing as the perfect time to visit Iceland as the weather is notoriously whimsical and the best season for your trip depends entirely on what you want to experience.

Mid-summer is glorious with eternal daylight courtesy of the midnight sun. This is the time for hiking, camping and exploring the wilderness, and when most services are open. The down side is many destinations will be packed with tourists.

We've got all the information you need about the highs and lows of different seasons. Whenever you choose to visit Iceland, pay attention to forecasts and road conditions and follow any safety advice issued by Icelandic authorities . 

December to January is best for seeing the Northern Lights

Christmas lights brighten up the darkness and a festive spirit is in the air as the dark season nears its peak. Frost glitters and snow transforms landscapes into winter wonderlands. Christmas markets are held in Heiðmörk outside Reykjavík, in Hafnarfjörður and on Ingólfstorg square in Reykjavík, which has the added bonus of an ice rink. If conditions are right, the first ski resorts open up.

The sparse daylight means that you have a better chance of seeing the Northern Lights, especially outside populated areas where there is less light pollution (find a Northern Lights forecast here ). Joining tours is advisable. While it is possible to drive yourself, road conditions are often slippery and snowstorms are common.

Festivals worth checking out in winter include Dark Music Days and þorrablót mid-winter feasts, celebrated around the country. For the brave, restaurants often serve special þorri food.

February to March is the best time for snow sports and hot springs

It’s still dark and cold so communities brighten up the darkness with events like the Winter Lights Festival in Reykjavík and List í ljósi festival in Seyðisfjörður in the East. In narrow fjords in the Eastfjords and Westfjords, inhabitants celebrate the return of the sun with sólarkaffi and have pancakes. Snow sports become more enjoyable as daylight gradually returns.

Spring is an abstract concept in Iceland as the weather doesn’t always play along. It can still be cold and snowy, but the days get longer and the sun sometimes shines on skiers – this is often the best time for snow sports. The first of the migrant birds arrive and slowly but surely, nature springs back to life. Around Easter, events like Easter egg hunts are a fun family activity. In Ísafjörður, the Aldrei fór ég suður music festival is held and Ski Week  is around the same time.

April to May is the best time for off-peak travel

While the weather is still unreliable, temperatures gradually rise. The first flowers blossom and trees bud. Migrant birds arrive in flocks and lambs and foals are born. Migrant whales have also returned and with better weather, whale watching is more enjoyable. The bird-watching season begins, although some areas may be closed due to nesting.

There are relatively few tourists around and if conditions are good, this can be a good time for a  road trip . Look out for off-season discounts on accommodation and activities. However, not all tours and services have opened up yet.

The first Thursday after April 18th is the official First Day of Summer in Iceland, which is celebrated with parades and events around the country – even though the weather rarely plays along.

June to August is the best time for outdoor recreation

While there’s no good weather guarantee, this is your best chance of sun and warmish temperatures. Late June to early August is when most Icelanders go on vacation, filling up campgrounds wherever the best weather is forecast. This is the height of the tourist season – and height of the whale-watching season – so whatever you have planned, it’s best to book ahead.

Expect crowds at the most popular destinations, like on the South Coast and the  Golden Circle . But as it’s bright all night, you can beat the crowds by traveling either super early or late. In July, Highland roads open up, but you'll need to book a tour or hire a 4WD vehicle equipped for F-roads and crossing rivers (if that’s your plan). Summer is the best season for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Around mid-August, wild berries ripen.

Summer is also festival season. Fishermen’s Day is a national celebration held in every seaside town on the first weekend of June. Around June 21, summer solstice is celebrated on Grímsey island, Iceland’s northernmost inhabited island. The Reykjavík Arts Festival is held every other year – the next one is on in June this year (2024).

Bræðslan music festival is held in Borgarfjörður eystri on the last weekend of July. Verslunarmannahelgi  is a weekend in August that is packed with festivals and events, and Reykjavík Pride has various events held throughout the city, culminating in the Pride Parade.

Reykjavík Culture Night and the Reykjavík Marathon are held on the third weekend of August.

September to November is best for cultural events

Nights grow colder and camping is no longer advisable as fall rolls into winter. The weather is often good, though, so hiking can still be enjoyable. Pay attention to weather forecasts and bring warm clothing. Nature starts to change colors, painting forests and heather yellow, orange and red. Þingvellir National Park is at its most beautiful.

Road tripping is still possible and there will be fewer travelers around. However, winter is around the corner, so roads get slippery as soon as the temperatures drop and conditions can get stormy.

Réttir sheep and horse roundups are held in the countryside, and the Reykjavík International Film Festival takes place in the capital. In East Iceland, the Days of Darkness festival is held around Halloween and the Iceland Airwaves music festival is held in Reykjavík. Advent is approaching and Christmas preparations begin. This is a great time for visiting galleries and museums, going to concerts, relaxing in heated swimming pools, and feasting on good food.

This article was first published February 2021 and updated March 2024

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The Best Time to Visit Iceland

By Amber Port

When is the best time to visit Iceland?

Iceland is a beautiful country and one that has only grown in popularity over the past decade. The truth, however, is that the best time to visit Iceland depends on the trip you want to book.

The lure of Iceland ranges from the northern lights to its famous hot springs and incredible natural beauty.

We’ve gathered the high and low seasons, and when’s best for what so that you have an understanding of what you’ll get out of each month of the year.

High season: June to August and late December Shoulder seasons: May and September Low season: November to April, excluding school and public holidays

When is the worst time to visit Iceland?

Again, this depends on what you’re looking to get out of your trip. If you want to avoid the maddening crowds, we recommend not visiting during the high season, which runs from June to August and late December.

What months are the warmest in Iceland?

June through August are the warmest months, which coincides with Iceland’s high season. You can expect lots of tourists enjoying the country; however, if you’re looking to go whale watching or enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking on those long summer days, this is the right time to visit.

When is the best time to visit Iceland for the Northern Lights?

You’re never guaranteed to see the Northern Lights , but your best bet is between November and March when the nights are long and dark. You need a clear sky, a surge in solar activity and a relatively remote location to get the best glimpse of the aurora borealis. We recommend the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, which offers an isolated position and an excellent vantage point to see the Northern Lights.

When is the best time to visit Iceland for whale watching?

The whale watching season coincides with the high season in Iceland. You can whale watch from April to September, with June through August being the best months.

When is the cheapest time to go to Iceland?

The cheapest time to visit Iceland is during the low season, which runs from November to April. There are fewer tourists too, which means flights, hotels , and any other rentals will be at a lower price point.

A version of this article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller .

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When Is the Best Time to Visit Iceland? - A Comprehensive Guide for Every Month & Season

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Iceland?

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By understanding how each season offers distinct experiences, you'll be better equipped to plan your ideal Icelandic adventure that's tailored to your preferences and priorities. As Iceland is located in the far northern hemisphere, right at the edge of the Arctic Circle , the differences between seasons are quite dramatic.

The best time of year to visit Iceland, therefore, depends on what you most want to do. Whether you're looking to go whale watching , head to a glacier to explore an ice cave or visit the Westfjords , the time of year is key when it comes to planning your trip.

When wondering about the best time to travel to Iceland, first, you need to make a decision on what season works best for you. Iceland's four seasons differ in not only the weather but also the number of daylight hours. Each season has its characteristics and different things to do that may not be available in other seasons.

Additionally, spring is an ideal time for birdwatching enthusiasts, as migratory birds, including the charming puffin, return to nest along the rugged cliffs. It's also the last chance to see the northern lights before it gets too bright. Overall, spring provides a serene and picturesque setting for exploring Iceland.

The warmer temperatures also make it a perfect season for outdoor activities such as  horseback riding  and  going on hiking tours . Summer is the peak season for the number of travelers, so expect more crowds at popular attractions. However, the opportunity to go on tours of the Highlands and indulge in various festivals celebrating Iceland's culture and history makes it a truly memorable time to visit.

With cooler temperatures setting in, visitors can still enjoy outdoor pursuits such as hiking and exploring geothermal hot springs without the summer crowds. Fall also brings the return of darker skies, so the chance of seeing the elusive aurora borealis returns. Visiting Iceland in the fall promises a unique blend of natural beauty, space to roam, and opportunities for unforgettable experiences.

The long nights provide ample opportunity to chase the magical northern lights or even go on a northern lights cruise , while the festive atmosphere in towns around the country allows visitors to enjoy the local Christmas celebrations and the bombastic New Year's Eve. Although the weather can be unpredictable, visiting Iceland in winter offers a unique experience that highlights the country's enchanting allure.

• Learn more: New Year's Eve in Iceland

Because of the wide range of different activities and things to do in Iceland, it can be helpful to break down what activities are possible dependent on the time of year. Of course, there are plenty of things you can do any time of year, such as engaging in delicious food tours in the city or exploring the many waterfalls around the country (just wear layers in the winter!), but below are a few of the seasonal-dependent activities that might make or break when you'd want to visit Iceland.

Keep in mind that while this mesmerizing phenomenon is largely dependent on solar activity and clear skies, it is also important to venture away from city lights to areas with less light pollution for the best viewing experience. Then cross your fingers and enjoy the show!

Top Northern Lights Tours & Holidays

2 day ice cave tour with south coast waterfalls & jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, 3-day northern lights tour of iceland’s golden circle & south coast with ice caving & glacier hiking, 8-day guided northern lights winter tour of the complete ring road of iceland.

During this time, the sun barely dips below the horizon, and daylight extends into the night as the sky turns pink and purple during a long-lasting twilight period. This provides plenty of opportunities for late-night sightseeing, photography, and  exciting midnight sun tours .

Photo from Original 3-Hour Whale Watching Adventure in Oak Boats

The best time to go whale watching in Iceland typically falls between April and October, with peak season occurring in the summer months of June, July, and August. During this period, the seas around Iceland become a feeding ground for multiple species of whales, resulting in a higher probability of sightings. Minke whales, humpback whales, and white-beaked dolphins are commonly sighted during these months.

However, orcas and dolphins are most commonly spotted during the winter months, specifically from February to March, when Breidafjordur bay becomes a feeding ground full of herring, which can be spotted on this Snaefellsnes whale-watching tour . You can also keep in mind that whale-watching tours are less crowded during the winter, which is another advantage.

• Learn more: The Best Guide to Whale Watching in Iceland

Photo from Best Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull Glacier

The optimal time for ice caving in Iceland is during the colder months, typically from November to March. During this period, the temperatures drop sufficiently to freeze the glacial ice caves, making them safe and stable to explore. That's when they're at their most spectacular, with the clear blue ice illuminated by the refracturing sunlight. It's important to note that ice caving should always be undertaken with a guide on professional ice cave tours .

During the summer, most ice caves become too unstable to be visited safely, with two exceptions! You can still visit the ice cave at Katla , near the town of Vik on Iceland's south coast. Additionally, you can visit the ice cave tunnel in Langjokull , which was carved into the glacier itself.

However, if viewing the northern lights is on your bucket list, consider a road trip between September and March when they are visible after sunset. Be mindful that winter driving can be challenging due to unpredictable weather and shorter days, and renting a 4x4 car is crucial to stay safe. Check out the many winter self-drive tours available, which are fully customized with extensive itineraries and pre-booked accommodations around the country.

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10-day self-drive tour of the complete ring road of iceland with top attractions & snaefellsnes, best 1-week summer self-drive tour of the ring road of iceland & golden circle, glacier hiking tour on solheimajokull.

However, for those seeking to view the northern lights while relaxing in the warm waters, the best time to visit is during the winter months (September to March), although keep in mind that daylight is significantly shorter during this time. Regardless of the season, this warm lagoon often gets busy, so it's advisable to book your tickets to the Blue Lagoon well in advance and try to go early in the morning or later in the evening when it's less crowded. There's also a wide variety of Blue Lagoon tours that incorporate other activities with a visit to the famous geothermal spa.

While camping in other seasons is possible, winter camping can be particularly challenging due to harsh weather conditions, limited daylight, and the closure of many campsites. Keep in mind that no matter the season, camping outside of designated camping sites is illegal, including parking rental campervans overnight.

Photo from Admission to Hvammsvik Hot Springs near Reykjavik

Hot springs in Iceland can be enjoyed throughout the year, each season offering its unique charm. During the summer months, from June to August, the milder weather and extended daylight hours allow for more flexible planning. Visiting during the midnight sun can add an extra layer of enchantment to your hot springs experience.

However, many people find the contrast of Iceland's chilly winter temperatures and the warm geothermal waters irresistible. There's also a chance to see the northern lights while you soak, creating a truly unique experience. Just remember that access to some remote hot springs can be more difficult in winter due to harsh conditions, so make sure to always check road conditions and weather  before heading out.

Photo from Whitewater Action in North Iceland

The ideal time for river rafting in Iceland typically falls within the summer months, from June to early September. That's when the weather is warmer and the snowmelt from the mountains feeds the rivers, creating thrilling white-water conditions ideal for rafting. If you're traveling with children, you could even embark on this 3-hour family-friendly river rafting tour in North Iceland .

Although the summer months are best, the season can start as early as May and extend into September, depending on weather conditions.

Top Rafting Tours

Family-friendly 3 hour whitewater river rafting tour in north iceland, whitewater action in north iceland, river rafting tour in north-iceland | west glacial river.

Also, with the summer's extended daylight hours, you have plenty of time to observe these feathered creatures in their natural habitat. Locations like the Latrabjarg cliffs in the Westfjords , Lake Myvatn in the north, and the Westman Islands are prime spots for birdwatching during this period. However, remember to respect the birds' nesting areas and observe from a safe distance to avoid causing any disturbance.

• Learn more: Birds in Iceland

The peak season is during the summer months from June to August. This is because of the long hours of daylight, warmer weather, and the opportunity to engage in sightseeing around the country, and going on road trips on the Ring Road . The peak season shortly returns around the time of Christmas and New Year's during the last half of December into early January, as people visit to experience the festive atmosphere in Iceland during this period of the year.

The shoulder season splits in two, the first being in spring (April-May) and the second during autumn (September-October). During those periods, it's still relatively warm compared to the cold winter, and visitors can comfortably travel between attractions without much worry about snow. The days are certainly shorter than during the bright summer but still give plenty of time for sightseeing. You could even see the northern lights if conditions are right during April or October, even though it's not the prime season for aurora hunting.

Lastly, the off-peak season from November to March (minus the Christmas season!) presents the coldest weather conditions but also the greatest opportunities to see the northern lights, go glacier hiking , dog-sledding , or skiing. Note that daylight is very limited in the winter months, and certain areas may be inaccessible due to weather conditions, such as the Westfjords and the Highlands.

• Read more: 18 Things to Do & Places to Visit in Iceland

Iceland's weather varies significantly throughout the year due to its location close to the Arctic Circle. The country experiences relatively mild but unpredictable weather. Because of its proximity to the Arctic, daylight hours swing dramatically during the year. This can be good to know when deciding when to go to Iceland.

Concurrently, the daylight hours rapidly increase due to Iceland's position near the Arctic Circle. In the early spring, there can be approximately 13 to 14 hours of daylight, with the sun rising around 6 AM and setting around 8 PM in April. However, by late May, daylight can extend up to 20 to 21 hours a day. This significant increase in daylight hours, coupled with the country's blossoming landscapes, marks a vibrant and exciting time to experience Iceland's unique natural beauty.

During this season, the daylight hours in summer reach their peak due to Iceland's position. In the early summer months, daylight extends remarkably, offering nearly 24 hours of daylight, peaking around the summer solstice in late June. The sun barely dips below the horizon before rising again, giving birth to the mesmerizing phenomenon known as the Midnight Sun. This astonishing period of prolonged daylight paints the landscapes in a continuous golden hue and offers extended hours for exploration.

Top Summer Tours & Packages

Outstanding 2 day tour of iceland's south coast with glacier hiking & jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

Daylight hours begin to recede during the autumn months. At the onset of autumn in September, the length of daylight begins to align more closely with the length of night, providing approximately 12 to 13 hours of daylight, with the sun rising around 6:30 AM and setting around 7:30 PM. However, by late October, daylight hours diminish to approximately 8 to 9 hours per day, with the sun rising closer to 9 AM and setting around 5 PM. This creates an opportunity to view the northern lights when the skies are dark.

In terms of daylight, winter marks the period of the shortest days in Iceland due to its proximity to the Arctic Circle. By December, daylight hours can be as short as 4 to 5 hours a day, with the sun rising around 11:30 AM and setting around 3:30 PM. However, this lack of daylight also creates the best time of year to see Iceland's most iconic natural phenomenon - the aurora borealis, which lights up the winter sky with its enchanting and colorful display.

• Learn more: Iceland's Weather, Climate and Temperature Year-Round

If you're not sure when to visit, or if you've already booked your flight and want to know what's going on when you arrive, here is a short overview for each month of the year in Iceland and what you can expect. Clicking on each of the headlines will take you to a much more detailed guide with everything you need to know about that particular month in Iceland.

Photo from Thrilling 2-Hour ATV Ride on South Coast to the DC Plane Wreck

August is the last month of pure summer bliss in Iceland, making it a great time of year for fun outdoor activities such as feeling the serenity of the water on kayaking tours , getting a rush of adrenaline while zooming across black sand beaches on ATV and buggy tours or braving the rapids of glacial rivers on epic rafting tours . If you'd prefer to take things slow and just enjoy the beauty and peacefulness of nature, go sightseeing and enjoy the many natural wonders around the country. The first weekend of August is a 3-day weekend for Icelanders, with many festivals being held around the country, the biggest one being in the Westman Islands. The festivities in August continue, with Menningarnott (Reykjavik Cultural Night) being celebrated the following weekend and Reykjavik Pride Festival the weekend after that. If you're not sure about things to do, check out our extensive selection of August tours which you can book online.

Yes, Iceland can be visited in winter. This is the best time to see the northern lights. However, keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable and daylight hours are reduced. There is a wide range of winter tours and packages in Iceland that you can explore.

The northern lights are not visible in summer due to the long daylight hours. The best time to see them is during clear, dark nights from late September to early April. For the best chance to see these elusive lights, there are a lot of northern lights tours to choose from during the winter.

Yes, the Golden Circle is open any time of the year and is conveniently located close to Reykjavik. If you're driving yourself, it's a good idea to rent a 4x4 vehicle if you're going there during the winter in case the roads are snowy. If you don't want to drive, there is a wide variety of Golden Circle tours to choose from.

During winter in Iceland, it's important to dress in layers to stay warm and comfortable. Start with thermal underwear and add layers such as a fleece jacket or wool sweater. Over this, wear a windproof and waterproof outer layer. Don't forget to wear insulated waterproof boots with good grip, as streets can become icy. Warm socks, gloves, hats, and scarves are also essential to protect against the cold.

Even in summer, weather in Iceland can be unpredictable. Pack layers, including a warm jacket, waterproof outer layer, hat, gloves, sturdy footwear, and warm socks. Don't forget your swimsuit for geothermal lagoon visits! You can read our Ultimate Guide on What to Wear in Iceland for tips about dressing appropriately any time of year.

Yes, renting a car in Iceland is a popular way to explore the country. Do note that weather conditions can make driving challenging, especially in winter. Always check road conditions and weather forecasts before setting out.

When would you most like to visit Iceland? If you have been to Iceland, what time of year did you visit? Let us know in the comments below!

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Best Time to Visit

The Best Time to Visit Iceland

While there are many unique travel opportunities , various adventures, and great events year-round in Iceland, the best time to visit Iceland  is in  June  when the weather starts to warm up and the country experiences 24 hours of sunlight.

However, if you're planning your first trip to Iceland , the best time of year to explore this Nordic island nation really depends on what you're looking for—whether you prefer warmer weather and outdoor events or you don't mind a little bit of cold for a great nightlife scene. When it comes to deciding what time is right for your trip, you should consider when to expect the biggest and smallest crowds, warmest or coldest weather, and highest or lowest costs for airfare and accommodations.

Peak Season in Iceland

Undoubtedly, July through the early August is the busiest time of year for Iceland's tourism industry, but crowd sizes and travel prices start going up in May and June and don't really start going down until September. If you're looking to avoid lots of tourists and to save money on your trip while still being able to access popular attractions, you might consider visiting in the shoulder season, which happens from early April to mid-June and mid-September to early November each year. 

The dead of winter, which runs from early December through mid-March, is the official off-season for Iceland, but a boom in year-round tourism since 2008 has resulted in prices for airfare and accommodations stabilizing over the years as more travelers have discovered the joys of this Nordic country's coldest season. However, you can still find great prices on last-minute airfare and even some special travel deals from the United States this time of year.

Weather in Iceland

Don't let the name Iceland fool you: The winters here aren't particularly bad; temperatures average 32 degrees Fahrenheit in the lowlands and 14 degrees Fahrenheit in the highlands for most of the season.   However, temperatures can dip down to 22 degrees below zero in the northern part of the country, so you'll want to avoid that area if you visit during the winter. June is the country's driest month of the year, while July is the warmest month of summer, with an average temperature of a pleasant 60 degrees Fahrenheit, and the  weather in Iceland  usually stays mild until late August.

When to See Natural Phenomena in Iceland

Known as a country of mystical landscapes and breathtaking vistas, one of the main reasons people visit Iceland is to enjoy its natural phenomena, including the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights), the Midnight Sun, and the Polar Nights.

While nearby Norway may be home to the best places to see the Northern Lights , there are plenty of great spots in northern Iceland to catch a glimpse if you visit from mid-October through March, a period known as the Polar Nights when the country experiences up to 19 hours of darkness a day. However, if you're a creature of the sun, you may prefer to travel in the summer instead when the Midnight Sun results in over 20 hours of daylight from June through August.

While some attractions might not yet be open in March or April, which is the best time to see the snow giving way to lush greenery and wildlife, you're sure to find plenty worthy of exploring. Spring is particularly great for visiting unique destinations like the many remote hot springs spread across the country as their access roads are buried under snow all winter.

Events to Check Out

• Puffins arrive on the island each year in April.
• National Beer Day is held each year on March 1, celebrating the end of Iceland's prohibition. There are several craft beers now available. Pubs and restaurants throughout the country celebrate.

Summer in Iceland is one of the best times to visit because the weather is pleasant and the sun barely sets. If you'd prefer longer days to explore the outdoors and hike the defrosted fjords, you'll love that there are about 20 hours of daylight (on average) each month of this season. Along with seasonal events—including outdoor concerts and festivals celebrating art, culture, and music—Iceland provides ample opportunity during the summer to explore the highlands and thawed fjords, swim in crystal-clear mountain lakes, and hike around the gorgeous island landscape.

The drawback to summer, though, is that prices are generally higher across the board—on food, accommodations, attractions, rentals, and airfare. Additionally, lines are longer, hotels fill up, and restaurants run out of room on their reservation lists as tourists flock to the most popular spots during the long daylight hours of Iceland's summer.

• The Viking Festival takes place in June in Hafnarfjörður. It's the oldest festival of its kind in the country.
• June 17 is Icelandic National Day, a celebration of the young country's independence. 

If you visit in September through mid-October, you'll have an even better opportunity to enjoy the hot springs since there will be fewer crowds and you won't have to rely on snow melting to access these remote destinations. Additionally, some of the best opportunities to see the Northern Lights are on clear autumn nights in late October through early December, before winter weather settles in and blocks the view with thick clouds.

• The annual Iceland Airwaves music festival takes place in Reykjavik in November and showcases new music from around the world.
• One of Iceland's oldest traditions is réttir, an annual island-wide sheep round-up that take place during September.

Summer has the benefit of long days but come winter, daylight shrinks to about five hours in a period called the  Polar Nights . If you can endure little sunlight, the question of when to visit Iceland suddenly becomes much harder because Iceland also has many bolder things to offer in winter: never-ending nightlife  in Reykjavik , infinite chances to view the  Northern Lights , and plenty of outdoor snow activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling.

The colder part of the year is also when flight prices to Iceland fall drastically and local hotels suddenly cut prices by more than half. Budget travelers wondering when to go to Iceland should aim for February or March because those months have more daylight than the earlier winter months but still the smallest crowds and the lowest prices.

• Winter means Christmas markets, which are abundant throughout Iceland. One of the best is Heiðmörk Christmas Market, about a 20-minute drive from Reykjavík.

The best time to visit Iceland depends on what you're looking for, but June is one of the best months for visiting. It's before the peak tourist season begins and the midnight sun phenomenon is incredible to experience.

The off-season is the cold winter months, especially from November to April. Prices go up in the weeks around the holidays, but outside of those dates it's the cheapest time to visit Iceland.

The peak season in Iceland is July and August when the days are at their warmest. Prices start going up in May and June, but you'll still find cheaper rates than you will in the late summer.

Guide to Iceland. "Weather in Iceland & Best Time To Visit." Retrieved February 10, 2021.

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The Best Months to Visit Iceland: Fewer Crowds, the Northern Lights, and Prime Puffin Spotting

The best time to visit iceland depends on your itinerary..

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Whether you want to see the Northern Lights or go hiking, Iceland has plenty to do and see throughout the year.

Ragnar Th. Sigurdsson/age fotostock

Iceland sparkles and awes year-round, but what you can do while you are there varies dramatically from season to season. For most visitors, the best time of year to visit Iceland is undoubtedly summer, since the daylight stretches to 20-plus hours, and even the most remote regions become accessible.

But the shoulder seasons in May and September are a chance to avoid the heavy crowds, and winter to spring, spanning from October to April, shows a completely different face of the country.

Here’s the best time to visit Iceland, depending on what you have planned for your trip.

Hiking and the Highlands

Best Months: June–August

Part of the majesty of Iceland, of course, is getting out into its roiling lava fields, up on its crater rims, and alongside its thundering waterfalls. Summer is prime for hiking because the snow has melted and the trails have begun to harden (no mud-slush for you!) Also, this is the season when the interior highland F-roads open to four-wheel drive (4WD) traffic and tours—check out Midgard Adventure in the south and Fjalladýrð in the northeast. Some roads begin to open as early as the beginning of June, but others may not open until deep into July, and then they begin to close and become impassable by late August or early September. Similarly, Hornstrandir Nature Reserve in the Westfjords is at its most accessible from June to August.

Plus, in the summer you have upwards of 20 hours a day of sunlight to get out and get moving, and the weather, though always changeable, is at its warmest, averaging from 46 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit. This is also peak time for other activities like rafting, canyoneering, kayaking, and diving the Silfra Fissure at Þingvellir National Park.

Avoiding the Crowds

Best Months: October–April

Iceland in winter, when the weather is cooperating, can give you thrilling opportunities to visit extremely popular places like the Dyrhólaey Peninsula and the Dettifoss waterfall without the crowds. As an added benefit, the car rental and hotel prices drop in some regions. Downside? Outside of Reykyavík, many tourist-dependent hotels, restaurants, and shops close in true winter.

Also, winter exploring is not for the faint of heart if you plan to drive yourself, as roads are often snowy or icy, and snowstorms regularly pass through. Iceland is well equipped, though, with excellent weather forecasting and websites for road conditions , and rental cars have snow tires (a 4WD vehicle is the best bet at this time of year). The rewards are giant: Think about the possibility of standing alone on a volcanic beach in a snowscape of white-and-black drama.

If true winter seems too intense, choose September or May—a good compromise, as average temps range from 40 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Best Months: May–September

One of the grand pleasures of a trip to Iceland is cruising its remote roads through open landscapes and along wave-swept shores, absorbing the majesty of the country. For example, you can make a wellness road trip in the Westfjords , connecting natural springs and town pools with the occasional luxe spa. Or go for a waterfall tour around the Ring Road. The experience is much better in good (or, at least, not bad) weather, so late spring to late summer is an ideal time to visit. However, during high-season summer, the Ring Road can get busy, especially in the south, where most tourists go, creating snaking lines of traffic. This is easily avoided, though, by simply venturing further afield—consider routes like the Diamond Circle route or the Arctic Coast Way .

Come to Iceland in the summer for a chance to have up-close encounters with adorable puffins.

Nicholas Kampouris/Unsplash

Wildlife Watching

Best Months: Puffins May–mid-August, birdwatching mid-May–July, whales April–September

A trip to Iceland offers the opportunity to see wildlife you don’t usually encounter in your backyard. Seasons vary by animal, of course, so if you’re looking for cavorting puffins, come starting in May, when they return from the open ocean, and get there before mid-August, when they leave again. The Vestmannaeyjar Islands are tops for their abundant colonies (they also have a beluga sanctuary), or go on a puffin tour at Ingólfshöfði in the back of a charming tractor wagon.

Birdwatching of other sorts is generally a summer activity in Iceland’s wetlands and lakes. like North Iceland’s Mývatn—birds are most active mid-May to mid-June as they arrive and build nests—and bird cliffs, like Látrabjarg in the Westfjords. Some areas close during nesting to protect the birds’ habitat. The elusive Arctic fox, the only mammal native to Iceland, is tough to spot. It’s most likely to be seen on the move near sunrise and sunset along coastlines and in summer when you can visit the Westfjords’ Hornstrandir Nature Reserve.

Whales and dolphins pass by year-round, and tours leave from Reykjavík, Húsavik (in the north), Grundarfjörður, and Ólafsvík (on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula), but April to late September or early October are the best months because the cetaceans arrive en masse to feed in local waters.

Animal activities, like excellent horseback riding or visiting the Icelandic goat farm at Háafell, though easiest in summer, happen year-round.

Cultural Life

Best months: Year-round

Part of Iceland’s immense charm is its welcoming, fascinating, vibrant people and their culture. And that’s available in all seasons. Sure, summer sees festivals like Pride, National Day, and Reykjavík Arts Festival , and cities and towns are wide open for business. But as darkness spreads across the land, Icelanders play on into the winter at music festivals Iceland Airwaves and Dark Music Days or the midwinter feast of Þorrablót, when Icelanders celebrate their culture, and you can sample fermented, smoked, and unusual (for you!) Icelandic fare. Reykjavík’s excellent museums, galleries, music clubs, and design shops boom year-round.

One of the best places to see the Northern Lights is by Skógafoss Waterfall.

Photo by Balazs Busznyak/Unsplash

Northern Lights

Best Months: September–April

Always a treasure hunt, the search for shimmering curtains of the Northern Lights is easiest with long winter nights—more darkness equals more chance to see them. But you need to find clear skies and high solar activity ( Aurora Forecast is a helpful resource). Interestingly, the most activity occurs around the equinoxes (September/October and March/April), when solar particle ejections are at their highest, though you have a shot from November to February as well, simply because there are up to 20 hours of darkness per night.

Snow and Ice Sports

Best months: glacier hikes year-round, ice caves October/November–March

Naturally, snow sports like skiing are best in winter, when there’s more snow. Same goes for ice caving, when these glistening complexes become more stable at glacier edges. But you can hike on glaciers, ice climb, and go snowmobiling throughout the year. In all seasons, go with a local guide (check out Icelandic Mountain Guides and Tröll Expeditions )—the crevasse-laden glaciers are never stable enough for newbies.

Home » Europe » Iceland » The Absolute Best Time to Visit Iceland

The Absolute Best Time to Visit Iceland

By Author Lance Longwell

Posted on Last updated: July 23, 2023

This small country has received a lot of love in the travel sphere during the last decade, and with good reason. Thanks to its stunning landscapes and ease of getting there from both North America and Europe, this is the perfect destination for trips both short and long. But when is the best time to visit Iceland?

While we’ve been visiting Iceland (and writing about it) since 2009, we don’t know if we can really claim credit for the tourism boom. What we can do, is give you expert advice based on our visits over the years during the different seasons.

During your planning, if you’re not sure when to visit Iceland, this guide is for you. No doubt you have some ideas about what to do during your perfect Iceland getaway. We have broken down for you month-by-month what to expect, so you can make an informed decision on the best time of year to visit, based on your interests.

Our Recommendation:  The Best Time to Travel to Iceland

Best months to visit, the best time to go to iceland by activity, northern lights, whale watching, saving money, avoiding crowds, holidays and festivals, holidays in iceland, festivals in iceland.

We are often asked when is the best time to visit Iceland.  And while this is largely a matter of personal preference and based on your desired activities and attractions to visit , there are some general guidelines.

Iceland in the summer can be absolutely magical. The extremely long days mean you have more time for sightseeing, hiking, hot springs , whale watching, puffin watching, and about everything else under the sun. You will miss the snow, skiing, and Northern Lights, but rewarded for it in other ways.

You will also have crowds and a lot more tourists to compete with. If you are going to Iceland in summer, head out of populated Reykjavik and spend time in the northern and eastern parts of the country, where there are fewer tourists. We recommend “shoulder season”:  May/June or September where the weather is good, but slightly fewer people.

Iceland in the winter can be like a fairy tale. Only a few hours of actual daylight mean you’ll want to pack your activities close together. But the long twilight before sunrise and sunset create magical light (and stunning sunsets). Winter in Iceland can be beautiful.

The Christmas-to-New Year period can be very busy with lots of other tourists. But early December and January/February can give you that dose of cold, snow, and Northern Lights you desire.

If you want our advice for when to visit Iceland, there’s no bad option. However, the best option is the one that fits your personal travel style and what you want to do while you are there.

This month is the coldest it will get. Ski season is usually underway by this time. The temperatures are not unbearable, however, because daytime averages are -1° C (30° F). At times, you may encounter fairly strong winds, which will make these temperatures feel colder.

During January, the average amount of sunlight is only 4 hours, although this increases to almost 7 hours by the end of the month. And if the Aurora Borealis is on your list, you are in for a treat, as this the best time to travel to Iceland to see the dancing lights.

With the number of daylight hours stretching from 7 to 10, February brings average temperatures of 0° C (30° F). This leaves adequate opportunity for exploration of the incredible scenery, and most of the attractions in the southwest part of the country are open for business –unless there is a big snowstorm.

February is the best time for skiing. This is also a good month to see the Northern Lights; just be sure to choose an evening when there is no precipitation and no cloud cover for the most optimal viewing.

As the days get longer, the hours of sunlight with which explore range from 10 to 13.5. However, the average temperatures remain cold, but warming ever so slightly to 0.3° C (33° F). During March, about half of the days involve precipitation, which could be rain or snow, depending on where you are in elevation.

This is the heart of ski reason, although it starts to taper off by the end of the month.  Still, you will need a 4-wheel drive to get to the more remote areas. This is also another ideal month for catching the Northern Lights on clear nights.

April is where the country really begins to “heat up.” Ski season is usually over by mid-April. With average daytime temperatures at 2.8 C (37° F). This is the time of year when the country sees drier weather.

However, with the clear skies also come the end of the season to see the Northern lights. They may not be as spectacular as during the winter months, but they are still there in April. The amount of sunlight stretches to 16 hours.

With long stretches of daylight at about 18 hours per day, you will no doubt guess that this is not a good time to witness the Aurora Borealis. However, what you can enjoy are average daytime temperatures of 6.3° C (48° F) and fewer tourists.

While this is still on the chilly side, the bright side is that you have many more sunny days with which to play.

In the Northern Hemisphere, June holds the longest day of the year, and here it is 22 hours, the month of the midnight sun! Temperatures are climbing as well, with average daytime highs of 8.9° C (48° F) or even higher on sunny days. That means you can expect less wind and rain, and more sunny weather. 

The roads through the interior usually open in late-June. The waterfalls are still going strong. The number of visitors start to increase significantly.

With pleasant weather and long days averaging 19 hours of sunlight, summer in Iceland can be quite lovely. The average daytime temperatures hover around 10.7° C (52° F) – never too warm. There is a good chance some light rain will mix in with sunny weather.

By July, you’ll be guaranteed that the 4-wheel drive roads into the interior will be open. This is peak season and many accommodation options will be booked out. Reservations will be necessary at restaurants.

This is when summer winds down and the daylight hours shorten to about 16, but is a great time to see landmarks in Iceland . The average daytime temperature is 10.3° C (50° F), and the weather remains fairly dry. Towards the end of the month, you will start to feel a distinct chill in the air, but still plenty of daylight for exploring.

This is the best time to visit the remote interior since the roads will still be open. Many locals take camping vacations at the beginning of the month. The number of visitors are at their peak this month.

With the coming of autumn, September sees about 13 hours of sunlight and daytime temperatures of a cool 7.5° C (46° F). The season for good Northern Lights viewing is starting to ramp up towards the end of the month. There are also fewer days of sunshine.

By mid-September, some of the 4-wheel drive roads into the interior will begin to close for the winter. It is possible to start seeing some snow in the interior or at higher elevations.

In October, daylight hours drop significantly to around 9, with average daytime temperatures hovering at 4.3° C (40° F) and great autumn colors. Even though precipitation increases during this time, clear skies bring increasing chances for seeing the Aurora Borealis after the sun goes down.

While the weather is still good, there are significantly fewer people. This is a good “shoulder season” month: good weather, fewer crowds.

This time of year, temperatures drop to a bone-chilling 1.3° C (35° F). Now, just 6 hours of average daylight temperatures are available, but even though the days are short, this is prime Northern Lights-watching season. On many days you will see light rain or snow; even fog.

Other than January, this month is the darkest of the year, with only about 4 hours of daytime light to play with. Ski season usually starts in mid-December (or early January).  The Blue Lagoon sees the fewest crowds in early December.  Average daytime temperatures linger around -0.1° C (31° F).

On the flip side, this is prime fodder for some great Northern Lights viewing, when it is not snowing or raining, that is.

Not all activities are available here all the time. Depending on what you want to do, you may need to adjust your travel plans. Here is when to go to Iceland based on what activities are popular.

This is one of the premiere locations on the planet to view the Northern Lights, thanks to its remote location away from any city light pollution (save for Reykjavik). The season for Northern Lights lasts from late September through mid-April, however there are conditions required to get the best view. The sky must be clear and solar flares on the surface of the sun must occur, which produces the dancing lights.

During mid-November through about mid-March is when the temperatures are at their lowest. This is the optimal time for exploring the stunning ice caves. Due to the many glaciers and volcanoes, this is ripe territory for the formation of the ice caves. Also known as the Crystal Caves, you can take an ice cave tour and go inside the glaciers. Since most ice caves are inside glaciers, it is generally not safe to visit them during the summer months.

Waterfalls mean water, so the best time to catch waterfalls at their best is during the months of late April through June (with the heaviest rainfall) or anytime during the Spring-Summer months after a heavy rainfall. Also, there will be fewer crowds during this time.

Along with the Northern Lights, this island is a world-class spot for incredible whale watching. Optimal times for catching the whales in action is mid-June through the first week of September, however sightings do happen anywhere from April through October. Tours are available at several places around the island, including Reykjavik as well as the “whale capital” of Husavik in the north.

For the most pleasant mild weather, come to Iceland during the high season of July and August. With not quite as much daylight as in June, the days are still long, with the most sunshine and chance to explore the stunning landscape and all the attractions on the island.

If you are looking to save some dollars, travel in the low season of late October through early December, and then again from mid-January through March. Avoid the holiday season as this is when prices skyrocket. However, if you’d also like the weather to be a bit warmer, the shoulder season is good: mid-May through mid-June, and September through mid-October.

If you’d prefer your visit to be relatively uncrowded, the best time to plan your trip is during the months of March, April, May and September. Many people consider the shoulder seasons of spring and fall as the best time to visit.

Having said that, the capital of Reykjavik always sees its fair share of visitors, so to simply venture away from the city to more remote areas is ideal. The west fjords, northern and the east see far fewer visitors.

Icelanders celebrate some unique holidays all their own, and also some traditional ones (in a unique way!) Here are the highlights:

• New Year’s Day – 1 st of January, where most businesses are closed until the 3 rd.
• 12 th Night – 6 January, the last day of Christmas.
• Bóndadagur – in late January, known as ‘Husband’s Day’.
• Thorrablót – mid-January through mid-February, a feast of traditional foods.
• Konudagur – just after Thorrablót , this is ‘Wife’s Day’.
• Bolludagur – two days before Lent, this is another culinary holiday known as ‘Bun Day’.
• Sprengidagur – celebrated on Shrove Tuesday in February, another holiday where locals feast on lamb and pea soup.
• Öskudagur – known to other Westerners as Ash Wednesday, where children dress in costume and sing in shops for sweets.
• Iceland National Day – June 17, Independence Day.
• Verslunarmannahelgi – the first weekend of August, where many locals go camping
• Christmas – this a big holiday, with lots of holiday lights and events throughout the month, including special appearances by the Yule Lads.
• New Year’s Eve – the celebrations continue, and this is the only day that fireworks are legal.

• Winter Lights Festival – held during the first weekend in February, winter spirits are lifted with light-art installations and cultural events.
• Food and Fun Festival – in late February in Reykjavik, chefs throughout the city celebrate with special menus and a televised competition.
• Reykjavik Folk Festival – three days of music in early March celebrates live folk music.
• Reykjavik Art Festival – taking place every other year in mid-May, it features a variety of national and international theater, design and dance.
• Seafarer’s Day & Festival of the Sea – the first weekend of June honoring local fisherman.
• International Viking Festival – the largest and oldest in the country in mid-June, celebrating all things Viking.
• Innipukinn Festival – held in late July, this is an annual music festival with top acts.
• Reykjavik International Film Festival – in late September, showing a wide range of films from around the world.
• Iceland Airwaves – over 3 days in early-November, it showcases some of the country’s best alternative music .

Have you visited before? What where your impressions? When is the best time to visit Iceland?

Lance Longwell is a travel writer and photographer who has published Travel Addicts since 2008, making it one of the oldest travel blogs. He is a life-long traveler, having visited all 50 of the United States by the time he graduated high school. Lance has continued his adventures by visiting 70 countries on 5 continents – all in search of the world’s perfect sausage. He’s a passionate foodie and enjoys hot springs and cultural oddities. When he’s not traveling (or writing about travel), you’ll find him photographing his hometown of Philadelphia.

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Thursday 22nd of June 2023

My wife and I are debating when to visit Iceland for the first time-our time is limited to either to the last week of August or the first or second week of September. We are into culture , archeology, nature and cuisine. We are not into hiking or water sports. What time frame should we travel??

Lance Longwell

Friday 23rd of June 2023

If it were me, I'd probably go the 2nd weekend in September. Slightly fewer tourists and restaurant availability will be better. There are a number of cultural events in the fall (film festival, etc.).

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Home » Europe » Best Time to Visit Iceland – MUST READ • 2024 Guide

Best Time to Visit Iceland – MUST READ • 2024 Guide

Iceland, the Land of Fire and Ice, is a land of extremes. From the midnight sun to the Northern Lights, and from striking volcanic landscapes to incredible wildlife, this far-flung island is a feast for the eyes.

Because the seasons vary so dramatically this far north, choosing the best time to visit Iceland is really going to depend on what you’re heading there to experience. But no season should be discounted as there’s plenty to see at any time of year.

While a visit to Iceland is off the well-worn tourist path, certain experiences and seasons attract a large number of tourists and should be booked well in advance.

Winters in Iceland are brutal, but if you’re well prepared with the right gear it can be a very rewarding time to visit, not only to see the Northern Lights. Hiking and whale-watching are best done in the summer when there are also loads of festivals to check out.

If you need help deciding on the best time to visit Iceland to get the experience you’re been dreaming of, read on. We’ve gathered all the details to help you choose that perfect time that balances cost, climate, and crowds.

Best Time To Visit Iceland – May-August

Best Time To Go To Reykjavik – September–October

Best Time To See the Northern Lights  – October-November

Best Time To Do the Golden Circle  – Spring (May–June), autumn (September–October)

Best Time For Sightseeing – May–mid-June, September

Cheapest Time To Visit Iceland – Spring (May–June), autumn (September–October)

When is the Best Time to Go to Iceland?

When to visit iceland – a month by month breakdown, faq about the best time to visit iceland, final thoughts on the best time to visit iceland.

The best time to go to Iceland for great weather is during the summer, between May and August. The days are at their longest, so you can cram plenty more sightseeing in, and the temperatures are pleasant and mild. 

This is also the peak tourist season for backpacking Iceland , so prepare for large crowds of tourists at sightseeing spots and attractions, not to mention the increase in prices for hotel rooms and flights. Of course Iceland is never cheap even in low season.

Late spring and early autumn offer a great compromise – all the benefits of mild weather without the peak season crowds and inflated costs. April to May and September to October offer this perfect balance – ideal for sightseeing. Yes, the days are slightly shorter and it may be a little cooler, but your reward will be a far more relaxed and budget-friendly experience. 

For me, it’s the perfect place to explore in October !

Whale-watching is best enjoyed between April and October – this is the peak season for travel, so make sure to plan and book well in advance. It is still possible to see whales outside of the summer season in certain regions, providing there aren’t any storm conditions. You’ll likely be given a thermal suit to protect you from the icy temperatures.

The northern lights are a popular reason for travel to Iceland. Usually, you can see these from around late September until March when the nights are darkest. Precipitation and cloud cover are not ideal for seeing the northern lights, so months where there’s less chance of cloud cover are ideal – October and November tend to be best. 

The cheapest time to travel is during the winter months, outside of the Christmas and New Year period. Rates on Icelandic accommodation and flights are the cheapest at this time. However, if you want to balance costs with better weather for sightseeing, then aim for the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. 

Best Time to Go to Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant capital city, is great to visit at any time of year. In the summer, the city gets around 21 hours of daylight and experiences the best weather. Maximum daytime highs reach into the high teens with precipitation at its lowest. 

While summer offers great weather, it comes at a price. Accommodation in Reykjavik will be significantly more expensive at this time, tourist numbers are at their highest, and you can’t see the northern lights at this time of year. On the upside, there are plenty of festivals and celebrations during the summer months, and it’s a great time for whale-watching.   

Autumn (September and October) is slightly cooler and the days start to get much shorter. However, prices on flights and hotels are much lower and the hordes of summer tourists have left. There’s a small chance you could see the aurora borealis on clear days, but if this is your primary reason for visiting, rather plan for a winter trip. 

Rain and snow characterize the winter months. It’s dark and cold and perfect for seeing the Northern Lights. Winter in Reykjavik can be fun too! And you’ll easily be able to pick up a good deal on accommodation and flights, However, certain experiences might be unavailable due to poor weather conditions and the impact of this on the roads.

Spring is a mixed bag when it comes to weather, but it’s still much cheaper than peak season. The days are getting longer and warmer, which is great for sightseeing but not for seeing the Northern Lights .  

Best Time to See the Northern Lights

The magical aurora borealis, or Northern lights, are a popular reason for travel to Iceland. The distances between cities here make it easier to avoid light pollution, and the winter months are dark, making it easier to see this incredible phenomenon. 

Like most natural occurrences, predicting the visibility of the Northern Lights is not an exact science, so there is always a small chance you could miss it. Of course, there’s not much you can do to encourage a solar flare or solar wind to increase your chances of seeing the aurora, but you can plan your trip for a time when it’s more likely that you’ll see them.  

September to late March is commonly the time when it’s dark enough for the Northern Lights to be seen. Months where there’s less or no precipitation are preferable as cloud cover is the last thing you want. October and November offer dark nights and low chances for cloud cover, increasing your odds of seeing the Northern Lights. 

February and March also offer good conditions for seeing the Northern Lights, but with a slightly increased chance of cloud cover. 

Best Time to Do the Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is (as the name would suggest) a circular route that starts in Reykjavik and takes in some of Iceland’s most beautiful landscapes. It is a cornerstone for most Iceland tours . The route takes you to three of the country’s top attractions:   Þingvellir National Park , Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall, and a whole host of extra little gems along the way. 

The route can be done in one day, or you could take your time to explore some of the smaller, but no less fascinating locations in between. Scheduled group tours can have you back at your hotel before a full workday has passed, but a self-drive adventure at your own pace can be very rewarding.

While the summer months offer the long days and mild weather ideal for sightseeing, it does come with the pitfalls of coach-loads of other tourists. If you’re doing a self-drive, accommodation along the way can get pricey at this time of year. 

Of course, doing the Golden Circle in winter will offer a completely different perspective on the landscape. It will be cold, but it does mean you could be rewarded with sights of the Northern Lights as well. Gullfoss waterfall will be frozen and hauntingly beautiful at this time. 

Best Time for Sightseeing in Iceland

The long daylight hours and mild weather of summer make it a great time to enjoy sightseeing. So great, that that’s when everyone does it. This means you’ll likely have to endure long waits at major attractions, straining to see past big crowds and the typical elevated pricing of high season. 

Traveling in May or September, the months immediately before and after high season, offer the best weather for heading out to the many sights, while simultaneously avoiding the crowds and costs of peak season. While the days are shorter than in high summer, there’s still plenty of daylight to enjoy your sightseeing. Any earlier than May or later than September can see the weather becoming more variable, and the days very much shorter. 

Winter is significantly cheaper for a visit to Iceland, however, aside from the icy temperatures, the snow and rain can make some roads impassable, meaning some sight will be inaccessible. The days are also very short, offering only around four or five hours of daylight to get your sightseeing in. 

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Cheapest Time to Go to Iceland

Winter, outside of the Christmas and New Year holiday period is the cheapest time to visit Iceland. This time of year is characterized by intense cold, dark days with only a few hours of daylight, and in times of bad weather, inaccessible roads in some places. 

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer a happy compromise between the lovely weather of summer and the low costs of winter. During these shoulder seasons, you can still enjoy good weather and a crowd-free experience. 

Another benefit of travel outside of peak season is that you have the option to hold out for last-minute offers which can further save you on accommodation and flights.

If you are trying to save a few quid when visiting Iceland, check out the pod hostels in Reykjavik .

Busiest Time to Visit Iceland

Despite its long and dark winters, Iceland is a rewarding destination all year round and attracts tourists throughout the year. Of course, certain times are busier than others, so it’s always best to have all the facts when it comes to choosing the best time to visit Iceland. 

The busiest tourist season is during the summer between May and September. These months offer the warmest weather, with daytime temperatures in the low 20s, and in some places almost 21 hours of daylight. 

The long days and mild weather are ideal for sightseeing, whale-watching, and hiking. The Northern Lights are not visible during the summer months. 

The winter months are the quietest time to visit Iceland, with the exception of the Christmas and New Year holiday period when we see a brief return to peak conditions with more tourists and higher pricing. 

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are busier than the winter months in terms of tourist numbers but not as crowded as the peak summer season. 

Weather in Iceland

Iceland has four very distinct seasons, although the weather at any time can be variable and unpredictable. 

The west of the country benefits greatly from the warm Gulf Stream current that flows from the Caribbean. When this warm air meets the Arctic air from the north, things can get very temperamental.

There’s a saying in Iceland, ‘if you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes,’ and these swirling competing air masses are to blame for this. In the winter, this can lead to windy, stormy weather. 

Summer in Iceland is characterized by long daylight hours and mild temperatures. Days rarely reach temperatures exceeding the low-20s, and while it’s mostly sunny and bright, it can also turn misty and rainy at the drop of a hat. 

Winters are cold in Iceland, with frequent snow and rain. It’s dark, with only a few hours of daylight, and high temperatures rarely break into the double digits (Celsius). Stormy weather can cause problems with travel as some roads may become impassable. 

Interestingly, although Iceland is located further north than most of Europe, the United States and parts of Canada, its winters aren’t as cold as, say, New York or even Russia. The warm Gulf Stream ensures that the country doesn’t quite live up to its name as much as we would expect. 

Where is the Best Weather in Iceland?

The southern coastal region of Iceland is generally characterized by mild summers and cool winters which don’t often get too cold. The influence of the warm ocean currents causes an overall milder climate. The differences between summer and winter are not extreme, and rain can be expected at any time of year.

Further inland and in the higher elevations, the climate is much cooler. Summer peak temperatures rarely break into the teens (Celsius) and the winters are much colder than the southern coastal regions. 

The northern regions of the country tend to exhibit cooler temperatures overall, with maximum daytime highs in winter hovering at around 10°C – significantly colder than in the south, which averages 0°C.

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Festivals in Iceland

Iceland celebrates many festivals annually, from ancient Viking traditions and religious observances to more contemporary celebrations. The population of Iceland may be small, but its capacity for celebration is large. 

A slightly modernized Viking tradition featuring loads of singing and dancing and eating. The gastronomically adventurous and strong of stomach can try traditional delicacies like fermented shark, sheep’s head, and pickled ram testicles, and wash it down with a potent shot of  brennivín  – a schnapps-like spirit nicknamed the ‘Black Death’.  

• Winter Lights Festival:

Hosted annually in February, the lights festival originated as a way to brighten up the darkness of the long winter months. Reykjavik is lit up with spectacular light installations, landmarks are illuminated, and various performances and shows. 

Over the four days of the festival, you can also enjoy Pool Night and Museum Night – extended opening hours and free admission at the city’s pools and museums. 

While not technically a festival or a celebration, the arrival of these shy, goofy-looking birds is worth taking note of. The puffins arrive on the shores in impressive numbers (over 10 million birds) in the spring for their breeding season, departing again by mid-August. Iceland is the breeding home for over 60 percent of the world’s Atlantic puffins, with colonies located all over the country. 

The best time to see and photograph them is in late summer.

• International Viking Festival :

A celebration of the country’s Viking heritage, this is the oldest and biggest festival of its kind, held annually at Viking Village in Hafnarfjörður.

Five days of staged battles, dances, and story-telling offer visitors a glimpse into traditional Viking life. Visitors can learn to use traditional weapons like spears and axes, learn wood carving techniques, and purchase a variety of handmade goods from the market.

• Frostbiter:

Icelandic folklore is filled with tales of monsters and supernatural creatures. These dark tales are likely a result of the deep, dark winters, volcanic landscapes, and dramatic scenery of the country. 

This penchant for dark themes has birthed an annual horror film festival celebrating these macabre, strange, and downright terrifying movies. 

Horror film fans can head to Akranes, a small town north of Rejkyavik, for the Iceland Horror Film Festival which celebrates both local and international horror films. 

Christmas is a special time to be in Iceland. From traditional Christmas concerts, festive markets, and twinkling lights that cut through the winter darkness, the country is transformed into a winter wonderland. 

Any Christmas in Iceland is virtually guaranteed to be a white Christmas, and the chances increase the further north you travel. 

If you’re still in any doubt as to the best time to visit Iceland for the experience you’ve been dreaming of, take a look at our month-by-month guide. 

We’ve gathered all the details for each month of the year to help you find the ideal balance of costs, crowds, and climate.

January in Iceland

January in Iceland is  cold and dark . Average high temperatures hover around 2°C and winds often reach gale force, making it feel colder than it is. There’s a good chance of rain and snow as well. 

It’s very much low season, so definitely the  cheapest time to visit Iceland , and there aren’t too many other tourists to contend with at tourist attractions. However, the days are short and offer only a few hours of daylight for sightseeing. Certain roads and attractions are likely to be closed or inaccessible due to weather conditions. 

February in Iceland

It isn’t much warmer in February , but the chance of rain and snow decreases. The days are getting longer so there’s more time for sightseeing. Most of the roads should be accessible by now unless there’s a bad storm. 

You’ll still benefit from  low season conditions : sightseeing is still pleasantly crowd-free and prices are low. 

March in Iceland

March is still cold with  occasional rainy days . Snow isn’t likely unless you’re headed to the higher elevations. The days are getting significantly longer now, and there’s  more daylight than darkness  now. 

There are few tourists around so sightseeing is still relatively uncrowded. This is a great time for winter sports in the mountains as there’s far more daylight to enjoy the slopes.  

April in Iceland

This is the unofficial start of the summer season in Iceland. As the snow melts, the landscape is blanketed in greenery, and flocks of migratory birds arrive. While it’s still chilly with maximum temperatures only hitting the single digits (Celsius), there’s significantly  less rainfall and much longer days . 

Tourist numbers start to increase from April, but it’s still not peak season so costs and crowds are manageable. 

May in Iceland

May is the best time to visit Iceland if you’re wanting a good balance between crowds, costs, and climate. The days are lovely and long, if a little chilly, there are  fewer tourists, and prices are still low . 

Temperatures are still fairly low, with the average maximum rarely peaking over 10°C. And like any time in Iceland, the weather has the potential to be erratic. Snow is unlikely unless you’re headed to the mountains.

June in Iceland

It’s now feeling a lot more like summer. Temperatures can get as high as 20°C but usually hover around the low teens. You can expect  bright, sunny days  for the most part, with the longest days of the year. 

With the mild weather come the  crowds and peak season pricing . Anyone wishing to visit in high season should book well in advance.  Visiting Iceland in June is on my bucket list! More sunny days, please…

July in Iceland

Like June, July offers  long sunny days  and mild temperatures that attract large numbers of tourists. Average daytime temperatures creep closer to the mid-teens, but can sometimes get much higher. You may experience light rain on occasion. 

This is one of the most  popular times to visit Iceland , so expect busy attractions, crowds of tourists, and elevated pricing. If you’re visiting at this time, there are plenty of outdoor festivals and celebrations to attend.

August in Iceland

It’s still fairly warm in August, with  daytime highs in the low teens , but the temperatures start to decline noticeably as the month progresses. There’s a slightly higher chance of rain, and days are getting noticeably shorter too. 

It’s still a great time to travel to Iceland in terms of weather, but you may still encounter  large numbers of tourists  and higher pricing. 

September in Iceland

The days shorten significantly in September in the lead-up to winter. It’s rainier at this time of year and the  temperatures are cool , with an average maximum of around 10°C. The first sightings of the northern lights are possible now, although not guaranteed. 

If you’re visiting at this time, you can enjoy the crowd-free conditions and the lower pricing that follows the peak season. 

October in Iceland

Weather conditions become  much more wintery  in October. While it’s technically only autumn, the average maximum temperatures drop into the single digits, the days are short, and rain is common. 

Conditions are still good for sightseeing and the weather hasn’t yet impacted the conditions of the roads. You’ll also benefit from  fewer crowds and off-peak pricing . The northern lights become much easier to see from October onwards. 

November in Iceland

Temperatures continue to drop  along with the number of daylight hours. There are only a few hours of daylight to enjoy, so you’ll need to plan your time well. Light rain is common, and if you’re heading further north, your chances for snow increase. Some attractions and roads are impacted by the weather and may not be operating. 

Tourist numbers are low  at this time, making sightseeing pleasant and stress-free. You may be able to pick up some  great deals on accommodation  during November. 

December in Iceland

The cities transform into festive  winter wonderlands , with twinkling lights and festive markets brightening up the winter darkness. Snow is common at this time as is rain, and average daytime temperatures hover around 4°C. 

There’s a small spike in tourism around Christmas, but if you book in advance, you’re still likely to pick up a good deal on accommodation.  

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When is the Best Time to Go to the Golden Circle?

The Golden Circle route can be done at most times of the year. May and September are the best times, as they offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

When is the Rainy Season in Iceland?

The weather in Iceland is notoriously unpredictable and rain can be expected at any time in the year. Most of the rain falls over the winter months between October and February.

When is the Coldest Month in Iceland?

January and February are the coldest months in Iceland. The average maximum temperature is around 2°C, and rainfall and snow are frequent.

When is the Worst Time to Visit Iceland?

Iceland’s short summer occurs between June and August. This is when large numbers of tourists flock to Iceland to enjoy the sights in the mild weather.

Don’t Forget your Iceland Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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Iceland, the Land of Fire and Ice, is a land of contrasts and extremes. Whether you choose to visit in the height of summer or the very depths of winter, each experience will yield a unique perspective of this fascinating island. 

Choosing the best time to visit Iceland will depend largely on what experiences you wish to have. It all comes down to striking a balance between the weather conditions, the tourist numbers, and seasonal pricing. 

If you’re planning a visit in the summer – you’ll be treated to long sunny days, but it’s essential to book well in advance. If you’re hoping to go off the beaten track and explore outside of the peak season, you might want to hold out for a last-minute deal. 

Either way, there’s plenty to experience in Iceland. And when you’ve done it all? Come back and do it all again in a different season for a completely new perspective. 

• Let’s get you ready for your next adventure with our  backpacking Iceland guide .
• Check out the  best hostels in Iceland to kickstart your adventure.
• Know  where to stay in Reykjavik  BEFORE you get there… trust me on this one.
• With the  best international SIM card you can stay connected, always.
• Seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience? Explore the best places to see the northern lights .
• Explore some of the best waterfalls in Iceland to experience something a lil’ different.
• Plenty of backpackers – myself included – make a stop at Iceland’s Blue Lagoon at the end of their Iceland adventure.
• Expand your horizons and explore the best winter destinations in Europe .

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Christina Grayt

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My husband and I will be in Reykjavik from August 16 to August 18th. We are very interested in taking a Golden Circle small group tour on August 17th. How do I find such a day tour?

Ask at the local tourist information centre, check online, or ask at your accommodation. There will be more than a few tour companies advertising their jaunts.

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Best Time to Visit Iceland: Seasons, Tips & More

• Last Updated: December 9, 2022
• Norbert Zohó

If you’re thinking about Iceland for your next vacation destination, you will probably also be considering when is the best time to visit Iceland. With amazing attractions and activities all throughout the year, Iceland is an awesome destination at any time. Naturally, your preferences will almost certainly play a huge part in when you visit the Land of Fire and Ice.

Iceland’s summer months see lush verdant landscapes and long, sunny days because of the famous midnight sun. In wintertime, the stunning Northern Lights dance across the dark skies. Do you prefer to see cascading waterfalls or icy landscapes?

We’ll take you through the pros and cons of visiting Iceland at different times of the year, helping you decide on the best time for your vacation. Keep readings for expert tips related to seasonal activities and experiences, and find out when is the best time for you to plan your trip to the magnificent Nordic treasure.

The Off Seasons: Spring and Autumn

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The Travel Seasons in Iceland

There are three main travel seasons in Iceland: peak season, secondary peak season, and low season. The peak season is in the summer months (June, July, and August), and the second peak season is during the winter (November to March ). Spring and autumn make up the low season, also referred to as the shoulder season.

While Iceland offers plenty of wonders all year round, every season has unique characteristics and diverse events and activities. There are advantages and disadvantages of each season in Iceland.

Spring and autumn are the two shortest seasons in Iceland, each lasting for just two months. Spring is the months of April and May, while September and October are the autumn months. These four months comprise the low season in Iceland.

Flights to Iceland are cheaper than at other times of the year, and visitors can also score lower prices and terrific deals on accommodations and car rentals too. The cheaper prices make the low season an ideal time for budget travelers to discover Iceland.

The low season naturally sees fewer visitors than the high season. If you prefer to dodge the tourist crowds and have a quieter vacation, visiting Iceland in the low season could be for you.

April and October have nicer weather than in winter, though it isn’t as pleasant as during the summer. Expect fairly chilly temperatures, rain, and darker days. The shoulder months of May and September can be suitable for camping and hiking, although the changeable conditions mean that nothing is guaranteed. Typically, however, May and September experience relatively mild temperatures and lots of sunny days.

Over the low season, May usually sees the best weather, with the least amount of rainfall and wind. On the flip side, if you were set on seeing the Northern Lights , it won’t happen in May—the nights just aren’t dark enough. There are greater chances of seeing the marvelous Aurora Borealis in September or October, thanks to the darker night skies.

Puffins return to Icelandaround late April, so you’ll be able to spot the cute seabirds in May. You won’t see them, however, in the later off-season months of September and October. You will, though, be able to see whales during autumn.

The main disadvantage of Iceland in the low season is the unpredictable and quickly changing weather conditions. You can experience sunny days and mild temperatures, but rain, snow, and storms are common too. The road conditions aren’t as safe as during the summer months; while usually fairly safe in April, roads can still have snow and ice.

In essence, visiting Iceland in the low season is great if your main priority is saving money and spending less on your vacation, though the tradeoffs will be poorer weather. You will also need to be more flexible with your plans.

The summer months of June, July, and August make up Iceland’s peak travel season; this is the country’s busiest time for tourism.

The weather is the most pleasant in the summer, with the highest temperatures, mostly sunny and bright days, and the least chance of wind, rain, and storms.

There are more hours of daylight over the summer. In fact, it never fully goes dark, thanks to the famous Midnight Sun. The skies take on gorgeous shades of red, orange, purple, yellow, and pink at nighttime, and there’s enough light to be able to travel and even hike. Summer is the only period when visitors can sleep under canvas in tents, and it’s also the most appropriate time to travel around Iceland in a motorhome or camper van.

Summer offers the best driving conditions in Iceland. It is possible to reach the nation’s most remote corners by car, although some mountainous roads and destinations do still require the use of robust four-wheel-drive vehicles. Regular paved roads, including the Ring Road, are accessible by small cars and bicycles.

The summer is the prime time for hiking through Iceland’s amazing landscapes. The hiking trails are fully accessible, there’s lots of wildlife to spot, and the Highlands burst into bloom after the long, cold winter. You’ll spot creatures like reindeer, sheep, Icelandic horses, and Arctic foxes roaming around Iceland’s terrain, while whales and puffins are easy to spot near the coast.

Awesome summer activities include regular and glacier hiking, caving, and trying various water sports. There are plenty of sightseeing excursions too, along with a wealth of cultural events and music festivals.

The downsides of visiting Iceland in the summer are the prices, traffic, and crowds. Accommodations can be booked up far in advance and campsites can be crammed with tents and campervans, particularly places close to popular destinations and attractions. Well-known attractions can be incredibly busy, especially at peak times. There is little chance for spontaneity, as you must plan your trip in advance.

Summer is the most expensive time for an Iceland trip, with higher costs for accommodations, plane fares, and vehicle rentals.

Another disadvantage of a summer vacation in Iceland is that you cannot see the magnificent Northern Lights; the nights just aren’t dark enough. Additionally, almost all glacial ice caves are closed to visitors in the summer.

Iceland has a second peak season over winter—November to March . Lots of people visit Iceland to see stunning winter landscapes, spectacular ice caves, and frozen waterfalls in addition to the famous Northern Lights. There are terrific winter activities, like snowmobiling, to try too.

The long, dark nights are ideal for spotting the Northern Lights in all their glory. In fact, there are some 19 to 21 hours of darkness each day to watch for one of nature’s finest spectacles.

Iceland is full of festive cheer in December, and winter sees exciting firework displays and bonfires in the capital of Reykjavik.

Christmas and New Year aside, winter prices are usually lower than in the summer. It’s easier to find bargain flights, and you may also find cheaper accommodation. You won’t, however, be able to enjoy the cheapest accommodation option of camping, and touring by motorhome or campervan is also strongly discouraged.

Although popular, winter does see fewer visitors than in the summer, meaning that you don’t need to plan your vacation quite so far in advance, and you won’t get swallowed up in huge tourist crowds when visiting Iceland’s diverse attractions.

You may spot reindeer and horses outside over the winter, but you are unlikely to see much other wildlife. Whales and many bird species head south for the winter, and sheep are protected inside farm buildings.

A major drawback of winter is the weather. Winter is the coldest time of year, with strong winds and rain as well as many storms. There may be snow and ice too. Iceland’s roads can be difficult to drive in the winter, sometimes perilous, and there are lots of areas that are inaccessible with a regular car. The shorter hours of daylight also limit the amount of time people can realistically travel. December has the darkest days, gradually getting lighter, with March having more daylight than the depths of winter .

The Best Time to Visit Iceland

Iceland is a world of wonder at any time of the year, with terrific activities and fascinating sights all year round. That said, depending on your preferred experiences there may be a better time for you to visit. We’ve put together the most popular places, attractions, and activities and provided details of the best times to visit Iceland for each. This helps you plan your trip according to your wishes.

Summer experiences the best weather in Iceland. Between June and August is the perfect period for people who don’t like cold conditions and love warm, sunny days with little wind. July and August are the warmer months, but August does generally have more rain (usually in the second half of the month) than July. Conversely, June is the driest month but also the coldest.

While there are light, bright nights between late April and mid-August, the height of the famous midnight sun is from May to July. The peak is on June 21st—the summer solstice, or the longest day.

Over summer the sun doesn’t dip down below the horizon enough for darkness to fully fall, meaning that it’s light (to a degree) all through the night. In good weather conditions the stunning hues of sunset and sunrise color the skies for many hours throughout the night. There couldn’t be a better time to enjoy the start and end of each day and to take beautiful photographs.

In the south and around Reykjavik the sun sets just enough for you to experience sunset, before quickly rising again with glorious sunrise tones. In the north of the island, however, there is no true sunset.

Many people visit Iceland with the primary intention of witnessing the awe-inspiring phenomenon that is the Northern Lights. Visible from late August to early April in Iceland, better weather conditions increase your chances of spotting the aurora. Regarding temperature, September and October are the mildest months. Of these two months, September is better when it comes to cloud cover and rain.

Even though the temperatures are colder, November and February are also good months for seeing the Northern Lights. The longer hours of darkness give more time to get out and try to spot the magical lights.

November and February usually have clearer skies than December and January due to the fact that they are drier with less precipitation. (September is, however, still the driest month during the Aurora-spotting season .)

There are many spectacular hiking trails through Iceland’s gorgeous mountains. Accessing these trails, however, really depends on the weather. As the weather is better in summer, with higher temperatures, drier conditions, and less wind, it follows that this is when you will find better trail conditions; the summer is, therefore, the best time to hike in Iceland. Furthermore, most of the country’s well-known hiking areas can only be accessed over the summer, particularly those in Highland areas.

Mountain hiking trails are typically at their best between late June and late August. You might be able to enjoy coastal hiking trails, however, between May and September. Hiking is strongly discouraged during the winter, for safety reasons. Only strongly experienced hikers should attempt to hike in Iceland over the winter, and crampons should always be used.

The most popular and most comfortable time for camping in Iceland is during the summer. Temperatures don’t fall below 0°C (32°F) over nighttimes. Wild camping isn’t legal in Iceland, but there are more than 200 official campsites spread across the island. Most are open from the middle of May until the end of September. Winter conditions are not suitable for camping in tents.

The road conditions are at their safest and best from May to October, making this the best time to explore Iceland by campervan or motorhome. Some campsites remain open all throughout the year to cater to people who need a place to park their vehicles and sleep during the winter. Traveling on Iceland’s roads during the winter can be tough for all vehicles, particularly larger vehicles like motorhomes and campervans; strong winds, snow, and ice can make winter driving in Iceland exceptionally hazardous and challenging.

Exploring Iceland is magical at any time of year, though the limited hours of daylight in the winter are an important consideration when planning your trip.

If you are planning to take a self-driving vacation, keep in mind that the best driving conditions are generally from May to October. Driving in Iceland in the winter is usually difficult, especially if you have no prior experience of handling a vehicle in wintery conditions.

Guided tours are available at all times of the year, and can access places that you may not be able to reach independently. You can travel safely and conveniently to beautiful destinations under the care of an experienced local guide. Sometimes, groups travel in vehicles that have been adapted for the terrain and the conditions.

When considering the best time to travel around Iceland’s famous Ring Road, think about the key things you wish to experience along your route. For example, are you keen to hike through nature and admire verdant landscapes and vibrant meadows filled with wild blooms, or are dazzling ice caves and frozen cascades more your thing? Midnight Sun or Northern Lights? Are you mainly interested in discovering the local heritage and culture? Perhaps you dream of relaxing in the warmth of charming guesthouses while you watch the snow falling and blanketing the ground outside? Your preferences will help you to decide the best time for you to travel around Iceland’s Ring Road.

Although you can access Iceland’s most famous natural sites all throughout the year, the majority of visitors opt to experience them in the warmer summer months. This is when you’ll find the best weather and road conditions, but this also means that the roads have the most congestion and the attractions have the biggest crowds. If you prefer a quieter vibe with fewer people around, visit in the shoulder months of May or September.

If your time is limited in Iceland and you just have a few days’ vacation, the South Coast and Golden Circle are likely to be high on your travel wishlist. It’s possible to drive to these destinations at any time of year, though the weather means you’ll need to plan your trip(s) that bit more. The natural sites are stunning in the winter, although do keep in mind that they look different to in the summer.

It’s possible to spot whales all year round in the waters off Iceland’s coast. The best time to spot these magnificent sea creatures is over the summer. Migratory whales return to Iceland around the beginning of April. Although migratory whales depart again at the end of autumn, some whales, those who aren’t breeding, remain through the winter months too.

Female whales reach maturity in around five to seven years. When mature, whales breed once in every two to three years, and spend more than a year nursing their young. When not breeding, whales don’t need to make the long migratory journey and so remain in Icelandic waters.

Orcas (also known as killer whales), however, breed all throughout the year. Their migratory patterns depend on food supply. Since there are many fish, such as herring and capelin, in the cold winter waters, the distinctive black and white orcas are drawn to Icelandic waters to feed.

Especially great for nature lovers, you can watch beautiful sea creatures on a whale-watching trip . Head out to sea for a few hours to observe whales in nature. Northern Iceland’s Húsavík is a top spot for seeing whales in the wild, and Snæfellsnes (on Iceland’s northern peninsula) is a great place to see orcas.

You can spot various bird species in Iceland throughout the year, including blackbirds, ducks, swans, oystercatchers, and gyrfalcons.

Many avian species are migratory, though, meaning they are only present in Iceland at certain times of the year. This naturally results in some months being better than others for birdwatching. Plus, if there are particular bird species that you’re keen to see you should plan your trip around when they are at their largest numbers in Iceland.

Migratory birds generally start to return to Iceland in April. If you wait until May, however, the numbers are greater and thus the chances of fruitful bird-watching experiences are higher. The numbers of migrating birds are highest from May until the middle of August. That said, the best time for birdwatching in Iceland is considered by enthusiasts and experts to be from the latter half of May and the first three weeks in June.

After the winter, the first bird to come back to Iceland’s shores is the golden plover. It makes its arrival towards the end of March, signaling the eagerly awaited arrival of spring. Known as the lóa in the native language, the golden plover is the county’s most celebrated type of bird. After the golden plover returns, other birds too start making their comeback, eventually, their warbling, tweeting, whistling, and chattering creating the enchanting natural summertime soundtrack. Most Icelanders know a catchy poem-cum-folk song about the birds’ return, which includes the message: “The golden plover has arrived to banish the snow, to banish the boredom, that it can do. … It has told me to wake up and work, and full of hope welcome the summer.”

Lots of visitors wish to see the famous Atlantic puffins around the coast of Iceland. The puffins return in April and are abundant through the summer. With around 8 to 10 million puffins calling Iceland home in the summer months, it’s little wonder that Iceland is sometimes referred to as the puffin capital of the world! Puffins leave Iceland in September, following most other species who depart around mid-August.

Iceland offers an exciting array of glacier activities, such as ice climbing, glacier hiking , and snowmobiling . As Iceland’s magnificent glaciers are accessible in all their beauty all year round, visitors can therefore enjoy incredible glacier adventures at all times. You will need to consider the weather, however, to make sure you dress appropriately for the conditions.

For hiking on glaciers and ice climbing, it is particularly important to ensure you dress for the conditions. You’ll be provided with all the necessary safety equipment, but you’ll wear your own clothes underneath. If you don’t have appropriate clothes though you can normally rent them from the tour companies. For snowmobiling adventures, you’ll be given gloves, a balaclava, and a helmet for both safety and warmth, as well as a protective overall to keep you warm and shield you from the wind and rain.

Winter is the best time to explore spectacular ice caves in all their ethereal beauty. Every October, tour companies go on scouting missions to find new caves, with tours starting up in early November. Iceland’s ice cave season runs from November until late March / early April (weather dependent). This is when it is safe to visit the country’s ice caves.

Throughout the five or so months of the ice cave season, some periods are better than others for adventures. Fewer tours are available in December and January, largely because of the limited hours of daylight.

As the days become lighter in February and March , more ice-caving tours operate. There are more hours of daylight to explore the ice caves and it’s a great time to get the best photographs of your adventures.

A family trip to Iceland will probably depend on existing time availability, such as holidays from work or school. There will probably be certain experiences that you’re keen to enjoy—you can look above for inspiration and ideas. For example, would your family prefer to experience the Northern lights or the midnight sun? Are you an active family that wants to spend time outdoors and spotting nature, or are you captivated by wintery landscapes?

Many families choose to visit Iceland in the summer, as this is when you will find the most child-friendly activities and things for people of all ages. The range of activities help to enhance any family vacation, providing educational and cultural understanding and education to complement and richen sightseeing around Iceland.

Driving around the island is one of the most convenient ways for families to fully make the most of their time in Iceland. Rent a car or book a self-driving package and discover Iceland at your leisure. You can choose which places to add to your itinerary, how long to spend at each place, where to stop to eat, when to take bathroom breaks, and so on. You’re completely in control of your holiday. Travelling at a slower pace is recommended for families, especially in the winter months when you’ll need to have some flexibility and may need to make last-minute changes to plans if roads are closed etc.

Iceland is the perfect romantic destination for a honeymoon. Lovebirds can explore the nation’s gorgeous landscapes, discover the creative culture, and enjoy a diverse selection of tours and activities.

While you might already have set your honeymoon dates if you are able to choose when to take your honeymoon we really recommend a visit in the low season. Prices are lower and there are much fewer crowds to interrupt your newly wedded bliss.

The best time for an Icelandic honeymoon, however, does largely depend on what you are expected to see and do.

Summer is lovely, with plenty of lush greenery and endless sunny days. On the flip side, it’s the busiest tourism time, with the highest prices and biggest crowds. Autumn is brilliant, with smaller crowds and lower prices, not to mention the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights and attending cool music festivals.

Visiting Iceland in the winter can be really romantic, with the chance to make many magical memories of your first vacation as a married couple. Many major attractions are still accessible, but without the large crowds, and the snowy landscapes are enchanting. You can still spot the Northern Lights and then return to a cozy accommodation to relax and snuggle up.

In a nutshell, the more time you can spend in Iceland, the better! You can scratch the surface of Iceland’s famous attraction in a shorter trip of a few days, but you’ll truly get the most out of your holiday if you can stay for at least a week. With a week’s vacation, you can tick off the most popular places, enjoy typical activities like snowmobiling and hiking on a glacier, and take a relaxing dip in an enticing geothermal pool. And all at an unhurried pace.

With ten days or more you can travel more extensively around the island and visit some off-the-beaten-track gems and remote countryside treasures. This is a great way to get away from the masses and enjoy relative peace and quiet.

If you want to understand Iceland more like a local, plan to stay for at least two weeks … longer if possible. As well as headline attractions you can spend long days hiking in picturesque nature, stroll around lesser-visited seaside communities, marvel at remote fjords, and escape the tried-and-trodden path in places like the Eastfjords, Westfjords, and the north. There will be more opportunities to relish local cuisine, interact with locals, and learn more about the unique Icelandic culture.

Have you decided on the best time for your trip to Iceland? Or perhaps you’re still looking for a bit more guidance? In any case, contact our expert Iceland travel consultants to start the ball rolling in planning your amazing vacation.

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These are the best times to visit Iceland

Part of Iceland 's immense charm is its weather — the spontaneous force that controls all activity for people living on (and visiting) the island nation. A matter of a few minutes can turn your sunny-day adventure into an afternoon spent waiting on the side of the road for a blizzard to pass. And while some may view that as a total vacation bummer, I prefer to think of it as an opportunity to fully experience the Land of Ice and Fire.

As someone who has a serious interest in Iceland and visits multiple times every year, I've quickly learned to appreciate Iceland during all its seasons and wild weather patterns — and figured out the best itineraries for all situations.

Ahead, you'll find the best times to visit Iceland based on a number of factors: budget, high and low tourist season, weather and more.

The cheapest times to visit Iceland

If you don't really care about weather-specific activities, my advice is to take advantage of the shoulder seasons in spring and fall when crowds are thin and accommodations are cheaper (think: March, April, September and October). There are often cheaper flights during these time periods as well.

TPG is constantly scouring flight deals and we've recently seen prices under $300 for round-trip flights between Boston and Reykjavik on low-cost Icelandic airline Play .

Related: Great fall, winter and early spring deals on flights to Iceland

Naturally, flights to Iceland during the winter are going to be the cheapest, aside from the main holidays like Christmas and New Year's (ticket prices skyrocket during those weeks), but in terms of value, consider visiting in the spring. Even if you pay a bit more, you may get more value given the more mild weather and longer daylight hours.

When to visit Iceland to avoid crowds

If you're looking to take in the sights without hundreds of other strangers, look again to the off months of March, April, September and October. Since the weather is a bit more erratic than it is during the summer, fewer travelers take the risk.

If good weather is not on your list of things you care about, head to Iceland in the dead of winter (December, January or February). It's going to be colder, but that and the extremely short days keep the crowds at bay.

When to visit Iceland for events

Music festivals in iceland.

There are a number of festivals to keep in mind while planning your trip to Iceland. For the musically inclined, check out Iceland Airwaves in November, the Reykjavík Jazz Festival in August, Aldrei fór ég Suður in April, Secret Solstice in June or the four-day rock and metal festival, Eistnaflug , in July.

Art, film and culture festivals in Iceland

For arts and culture, there's the Reykjavík International Film Festival in September and October and the LungA Art Festival in July.

If you've done your research on the Icelandic sagas, plan a trip over the first Friday after Jan. 19 to partake in the Thorrablot celebrations. This mid-winter festival brings locals and travelers together to dine on the unusual foods of Iceland's past like fermented shark, boiled sheep's head and congealed sheep's blood wrapped in a ram's stomach.

Icelanders also celebrate the summer solstice, which occurs over June 21. With nearly 24 hours of sunlight, the bonfire celebrations go late into the night.

Related: 9 common mistakes you don't want to make in Iceland

The best times for whale watching in Iceland

During the winter, it can be hard to spot any kind of wildlife in Iceland, given the harsh climate. If you're looking to spot migrating whales passing by, plan a trip between April and October — otherwise known as prime time for whale spotting. You can catch sight of minke, humpback, sperm, and fin whales, along with orcas, and there are plenty of tours on the Reykjavík Harbor that will take you to the best locations.

The best times to see puffins in Iceland

There are a few excellent spots to see Iceland's most adorable bird in its natural habitat, but no matter where you plan to go puffin-spotting, the best time to do it is between April and August.

You'll find the largest puffin colony in the world on the Westman Islands, known as Vestmannaeyjar in Icelandic. You can even arrange a minibus tour where a local guide will share the history of the islands and take you to some of the local puffin hot spots.

Related: 7 things to do on your next trip to Iceland

The Látrabjarg cliffs in the Westfjords provide a picturesque locale for seeing puffins and, along with them, millions of other birds who call the cliffs home, including razorbills and northern gannets.

Two animals you will see no matter when you visit: sheep and horses, and lots of them. Wool textiles are a huge part of the country's retail market and exports, while Icelandic horses have become a key player in the area's tourism industry — horse rides across the countryside have become a popular bucket list item for the animal's distinct "fifth gait."

The best times to hike in Iceland

Summertime is easily the best time to go hiking in Iceland, but it will also mean busier trails. To really get away from the crowds, you can hire a private guide who will bring you to some lesser-known hikes in the highlands, but this region is only accessible during snow-free months.

There are hiking trails open during the wintertime, but they will be less challenging (despite the blowing winds and heavy precipitation, of course). You can find hiking just about anywhere during any time of the year if you do the research. There are plenty of opportunities to take a stroll around almost all of the major attractions, from Pingvellir National Park and the waterfalls along Route 1 in the south to Reykjanes Peninsula and the famous Búðakirkja: a lone black church that sits on a lava field.

Consider your priorities: Do you want to hike through the Highlands or into some of the trickier areas of the north? Plan your travel for June, July or August. Are you more interested in snowshoeing or glacier walking? Find a tour company to take you to some of the prettiest spots during December, January or February. All other months offer great hikes, it just depends on the weather forecast for the day.

The best times to cycle in Iceland

Cycling the Ring Road is ambitious, but the views make it all worthwhile. Plan your trip during the summertime — preferably late June — for the most daylight. The sun stays up practically around the clock during this season, making it easy to bike long into the night without worrying about visibility. But don't forget your eye mask if you actually want to sleep.

The best times to drive around Iceland

Let's settle one thing: You can drive around Iceland during any time of the year, you're just going to have different types of weather to worry about. You must choose if you want a leisurely, sunny road trip or if you are just looking to get from Point A to Point B. If you anticipate any snow during your trip, make sure your car has four-wheel drive. You will thank yourself over and over again.

It may seem obvious, but if you want a true road trip, go during the summertime when sunlight is abundant. Book your road trip around Iceland for July and you'll never regret it.

If you aren't afraid of driving through some true "winter weather" — hail, snow, blizzards, torrential downpours and a blip of sunlight all in the span of a few hours — you can drive in Iceland any month of the year. But the country will shut down the roads if they're impassable, so keep that in mind. For example, you won't be able to visit the highland region during the winter, or take some mountain road shortcuts.

The best weather for special activities

There are some things that can only be done during specific seasons in Iceland, which is part of what makes the destination so special. But if you're looking for hot springs, never fear: relaxing in a hot spring is a year-round activity.

You will definitely get the most out of your hikes if you plan a summer trip. Not only will the weather be better, but you can get access to the multi-colored landscapes of Laugavegur and the so-called Volcanic Trails in the Highlands.

In the colder months, you have the opportunity to get close to Iceland's famous, electric-blue glaciers. Glacier hikes, ice caves and iceberg spotting are all popular — and encouraged — activities during the winter.

The ice caves, especially, are a huge must if you're visiting during the winter, as they are completely inaccessible during the summertime. To visit them, you'll need a trained guide familiar with the region. Do not try and visit these on your own as the melting pattern can be unpredictable and extremely dangerous.

Another strictly wintertime activity is northern lights spotting. The aurora borealis will only appear under extremely dark, clear conditions between September and April; when the nights are long you have a better window of time each day when you can view them.

Bottom line

There are some things in Iceland that can only be experienced during a certain season, meaning there truly is no bad time to visit the country. With that in mind, you should make a list of your vacation priorities. Looking to see the ice caves? You'll need to visit during the winter. Want to hike in the highlands? Again, that whittles down your travel options.

No matter when you choose to visit Iceland, though, you'll be treated to the country's unparalleled beauty, exciting outdoor activities and majestic wildlife.

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When is the best time to visit Iceland?

• Month-by-month

The best time to visit Iceland to see the northern lights is between November and February, when the nights are longest. The best time to visit if you want to explore inland by 4x4 is from July, once the snow in the highlands has thawed.

Iceland is a great year-round destination, enjoying a temperate maritime climate. Summers are short and cool, with temperatures between 48°F and 55°F. Winters are long but surprisingly mild, with highs of 37°F and lows of 28°F.

Unexpected rain can fall throughout the year, so always be prepared for chilly, wet and windy days. Winter blizzards may delay travel plans, and late thaws in the highlands might affect travel in the summer. But, as Icelanders say: If you don’t like the weather, just wait a bit.

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Month-by-month guide for traveling in Iceland

Visiting Iceland in January

The days are short and the nights are long, which improves your chances of seeing the northern lights in the dark, unpolluted skies. Festive lights continue to illuminate towns and cities — a welcome remedy to the wintry darkness. Daytime sightseeing needs to be planned carefully to coincide with the limited hours of sunlight.

Events & Festivals

• The Þorrablót winter festival is celebrated from mid-January to mid-February. Þorrablót is an old pagan festival originally celebrated by Iceland’s early settlers over a thousand years ago. Revived in the 1800s, it brings local people together to eat, drink, dance and sing traditional songs. A Þorrablót menu consists of traditional Icelandic delicacies, including hákarl (fermented shark), smoked lamb and svið (boiled sheep’s head). This is typically accompanied with brennivín — a schnapps made from potato and caraway. During this time, many restaurants will offer these dishes on their menus.
• The northern lights can be viewed in Iceland between early September and early April, if skies are clear and aurora activity is forecast. Chances of seeing them are best between November and February, when the sun sets before 6pm and the nights are longest.

Visiting Iceland in February

The days grow longer at a surprisingly rapid pace, which gives you more time for sightseeing and makes it easier to travel farther into the Icelandic countryside. At this time of year, you can take trips to see orca in the waters surrounding the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and there are still good opportunities to witness the northern lights strobing across the sky.

Visiting Iceland in March

The Spring Equinox officially marks the end of winter in Iceland, when daytime lasts as long as night-time. This means you can spend longer each day exploring Iceland’s geothermal landscapes and natural landmarks. There’s still a chill in the air, and winter activities such as ice caving are still popular. Although the nights are shorter, it’s still possible to see the aurora borealis late in the evenings.

Visiting Iceland in April

April is one of the quieter times to travel, so you’re better able to enjoy sights away from the crowds. Although the Icelandic summer has officially begun, it might not feel like it — rain and snow are still common and lots of summer activities, including puffin viewing, cycling tours and many boat trips, are not yet in operation. As the snow begins to clear, the grassy landscape turns pale yellow.

Visiting Iceland in May

The summer season officially begins, with temperatures becoming milder and more activities opening up throughout the country. The main road around the island — sections of which are often closed during winter storms — is usually fully accessible. Seabirds, including puffins, return to Iceland and you can see them nesting in large numbers on the rugged coastline. Toward the end of the month, lambs seem to be everywhere you look and lupine flowers bloom lilac across the countryside.

• From mid-May until mid-July, Iceland basks in 24 hours of daylight. The sun dips below the horizon at midnight and rises again at 3am, and it’s never truly dark between these hours. Instead, a pinkish twilight lingers in the sky.
• Kirkjubæjarklaustur Chamber Music Festival takes place in the summer (month varies) in southern Iceland, on a magnificent lava-field landscape.
• The Reykjavík Arts Festival takes place for three weeks each year in May or June. This is a major event in the capital that invites hundreds of artists from around the world to showcase their work.

Visiting Iceland in June

The summer solstice marks the longest day of the year, bringing 24 hours of daylight to Iceland as the sun barely dips below the horizon. By now, the landscape is a vivid green, which contrasts sharply with the country’s dark volcanic rock, making for some excellent photography opportunities. Some activities, including quad biking tours and whale watching, take advantage of the midnight sun and are available late into the evening. Plenty of festivals take place in the summer throughout the country, celebrating local arts, food and culture.

• Humarhátið festival takes place in late June or early July in the little town of Höfn, in southeast Iceland. Focused on local seafood, this is a great opportunity to try freshly caught Icelandic langoustine.

Visiting Iceland in July

Snow in the highlands has thawed and roads through Iceland’s wild interior are now accessible, offering opportunities to explore inland by 4x4. One of the most popular times to travel, visitors come to experience the midnight sun and Iceland’s vast array of outdoor activities. You can expect larger crowds at major attractions such as the Golden Circle, Lake Mývatn and along the south coast.

Visiting Iceland in August

The weather is mild and rainfall remains comparatively low. Visitors to Iceland reach their peak, so hotels should be booked well in advance and you can expect the country’s well-known landmarks and attractions to be busy. Many seabirds begin their migration south from the middle of August, so plan your travel at the beginning of the month if you’d like to see them.

• Fiskidagurinn Mikli (Great Fish Day) takes place on the first or second Saturday of August in the fishing village of Dalvík, in north Iceland. This is a big social event, with outdoor seafood buffets, and free fish soup offered in locals’ homes.
• Síldarævintýri (Herring Adventure Music Festival) is hosted in the town of Siglufjörður, in north Iceland, over the early August public holiday. In the past, the festival has featured a broad range of Icelandic music, from folk singing to Sigur Rós.
• Menningarnótt (Culture Night) is celebrated in Reykjavík in August. This is a major event, with roads closing for street performers and fireworks in the evening.

Visiting Iceland in September

As the peak summer season winds down, this is a quieter time to travel in Iceland while the whole island is still generally accessible. September is usually cooler and wetter than July and August, but many summer activities and attractions are still available. As you drive through the countryside, look out for the annual réttur taking place, when farmers round up the 800,000 sheep that have been roaming the land during the summer.

Visiting Iceland in October

October is typically the wettest month in Iceland, but there are noticeably fewer visitors compared to the summer months. Many summer activities are no longer available and adverse weather increases the risk of road closures, so travel is now generally limited to the south coast, north and west Iceland.

Visiting Iceland in November

As the nights draw in, the northern lights often appear in the sky. Seasonal winter activities, such as ice caving, are also now possible. Temperatures are cool, but there’s still plenty to do to lure you outdoors and the cold air makes the geothermal steam rising from hillsides become more pronounced.

Visiting Iceland in December

A wonderful time to visit Iceland, when festive lights illuminate towns and cities. Toward the end of the month, the sun lingers on the horizon for just four hours, creating a strange, ethereal twilight. Tours need to be planned carefully to make the most of the limited daylight hours, and, weather permitting, the northern lights frequently make an appearance.

• In the 13 days before Christmas, troll-like Jólasveinar (‘Yule lads’) are said to visit children one-by-one in the days leading up to Christmas. Formerly, they tried to play tricks on people, but now they leave children small gifts. You might see the Jólasveinar projected onto buildings in Reykjavík, and they visit some hotels to leave small tokens for guests.
• New Year’s Eve is the biggest party of the year in Iceland, when bonfires and fireworks are lit, and Icelanders gather to share the warmth and sing. Belief in elves (huldufólk) is widespread in Iceland and they’re said to be most active at New Year, so it’s common for Icelanders to reference them in songs at this time of year.

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Best Time to Visit Iceland: Your Complete Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland or really inspired to come to this Nordic gem, you may be wondering when is the best time to visit Iceland. One of the country's many charms is being a year-round destination, but your personal choice can influence when to visit Iceland! 

Whether you want to visit in winter or summer , or come for a particular interest of yours, we have it all below.

Iceland is a country that is beautiful and interesting all year long. This is why, at Nordic Visitor, our travel consultants have crafted tours for both the winter and summer seasons.

There are countless fantastic activities and sights to see and do, so depending on your interests or your available time to come, we have you covered with this useful guide.

• When is peak season?
• When is best for weather?

Exploring Iceland in summer

Exploring iceland in winter.

• Visiting Reykjavík
• Birdwatching
• Touring the Golden Circle
• Seeing the northern lights
• Experiencing the midnight sun
• Taking stunning photography
• Honeymooners
• Enjoying the Blue Lagoon and spas
• Dipping in hot springs
• Whale watching
• Attending events and festivals
• Combining Iceland and Greenland

When is the peak season in Iceland?

Peak season for travelling to Iceland is during the summer, between June and August.

If you visit at this time, it'll coincide with the mildest weather, summer holidays, the most daylight, and the most activities available. In recent years, the winter months have also been very popular, with people flocking to Iceland to see the northern lights.

• For popular itineraries around Iceland, check out these best-selling tours
• Visit in  June , July or  August  to see Iceland at peak time

When is the best time to visit Iceland for the weather?

Iceland isn’t as cold as its name may suggest and enjoys a temperate climate all year long. That’s not to say that the weather doesn’t change quickly over the course of a single day.

For that reason, regardless of the time of year, make sure to have wind and water resistant layers on hand.

The mildest weather of the year in Iceland is, of course, during the summer months.

If you’re looking for maximum sunlight, or even to experience the midnight sun (when the sun doesn’t fully set below the horizon), the best period to come is in June, July or August.

The shoulder months of May and September are also ideal for those who prefer a quieter holiday, as they usually attract less crowds. The weather is usually still mild, although a bit more unpredictable.

• Visit Iceland in  May  or  September  to enjoy the advantages of the shoulder months

Of course, maybe the perfect weather for you is a crisp and snowy day. Then the winter months will be the time when you want to come and enjoy the best that Iceland has to offer.

The months between October and April define the winter season and shoulder season. You may also enjoy visiting in late December to join in the Icelandic New Year’s festivities.

You can find out more about the weather in Iceland in our handy climate and weather conditions guide .

What is the best month to visit Iceland?

While the weather may be a big draw for some, you may want to come to Iceland for a particular month or season, whether that’s when you have holiday or when you want to enjoy a certain activity.

Summer in Iceland is from June until August. The shoulder months May and September are very popular among travellers as well.

The summer is by far the most popular with visitors. This is because, at that time of year, the temperature is generally milder, there is more daylight to take advantage of when sightseeing, and there are more activities available.

There is a lot of festivals and events as well, you can read more about that below.

You’re also more likely to enjoy a road trip in the summer as you’ll have more daylight hours to drive. If you only have a week, you can still drive the Ring Road but it will involve longer daily driving distances.

The roads are also less likely to be shut due to the weather conditions at this time.

The one downside some people may find is that, as summer attracts the most visitors, it means more crowds at popular attractions. If you prefer a quieter time, you could also visit during the shoulder season, the months of May and September .

For the most beautiful colours in nature, but also a quieter time for tourism in Iceland, I would recommend September. The fall colours are amazing and that is my favourite time to explore the country. - Helga Guðmundsdóttir, Travel consultant for Iceland

• Take a look at our summer tours in Iceland

Winter is slowly attracting more and more visitors. Quieter months such as October and November are a great time to visit Iceland. This is especially true if you want to experience the long nights and darkness of the northern parallels.

The enchanting natural phenomena that are the aurora borealis deserve attention too. As do the wintry landscapes of the higher altitudes and North Iceland.

While Iceland is a year-round destination, there are fewer activities available at that time of year, with less daylight to take advantage of them. For a road trip, we would recommend staying around the west and southern coast of Iceland. There is plenty to see here, including the Golden Circle. 

You could also fly up to the capital of the north Akureyri. Experience this beautiful region and see a true winter landscape.

• Visit Iceland October  and  April  to enjoy the Icelandic winter
• By coming in  December  you could join in the Christmas and New Year's Eve celebrations

During many months of the winter, it’s also possible to tour the famous Ring Road if that’s what you’re looking for. However, be aware that the weather can often make the roads and driving conditions unpredictable and difficult.

Driving during the winter months in Iceland is not for everyone.

This is why we do not recommend a long road trip in the winter if you have never driven on snow and ice.

If you are going to embark on a winter driving tour in Iceland, you should be comfortable driving in what can be challenging conditions. This includes snowstorms, icy roads and little daylight.

• To tour the island at your own pace, browse our winter self-drive tours of Iceland
• Don't fancy driving in winter? Choose a small group tour and let an experienced driver take you to Iceland's star attractions

If you do want to come in the winter, make sure to dress for the Icelandic weather. We have a handy packing guide here to help you with that.

When is best time of year to visit Iceland depending on your needs?

As we’ve mentioned many times again, there is no bad time to visit Iceland, there is something beautiful to see and something interesting to do all year long.

Below we’ve highlighted the most requested interests and activities and when is the best time to go to Iceland for them. Look up the one you’d love to experience while in Iceland:

Best time to visit Reykjavík, Iceland

Reykjavík is a colourful, cultural, and buzzing city throughout the seasons. From year-round festivals, to New Year’s Eve celebrations, and world-renown attractions, visiting Iceland’s capital is always fun.

The best time may depend on what you want to do during your visit. Most museums, such as Perlan the top attraction in town, open their doors throughout the year. The swimming pools, heated by geothermal power, are also visited by locals and visitors all year long.

To attend specific events, you may want to visit at a particular time. Attend Iceland Airwaves in November, the Culture Night in August, or the Secret Solstice in June. Summer has the largest concentration of festivals if you want to feel the lively atmosphere.

December is a great time to visit to get in the festive spirit. There are fireworks, bonfires and more to celebrate Christmas and mark the start of a new year.

• Enjoy a city break  in Reykjavík to take part in the lively culture

Best time to visit for birdwatchers

If you love birds and birdwatching, you will be spoiled in Iceland!

While it is possible to birdwatch all year round, many of the bird species are migratory and thus only spend a portion of the year in Iceland. This means some periods of the year are indeed better for birdwatching, or for spotting certain kinds of birds.

Generally speaking, the best time for birdwatching is considered to be between mid- April and the end of June . This is the time of the year that sees the most bird species in Iceland, and long daylight hours gives visitors ample time to admire them.

There are five species that people often seek out and we’ve made a wee guide for you:

There are 8 to 10 million puffins that spend their summer in Iceland every year! That makes up nearly 60% of the world’s Atlantic puffin population. These adorable birds can be spotted from late April, with the best period to see them being between May and early August .

Harlequin duck

Since Iceland is the only country in Europe where this colourful duck species can be found, it is an exciting sighting!

There are around 2000 to 3000 pairs that breed around the country. While they stay in the sea around the island during the winter, in the spring they travel up rivers for their nesting season. They can, for example, be found in Ölfusá river.

Barrow‘s goldeneye

90% of the Barrow’s goldeneye around Lake Mývatn and stay there year-round. Around 150 birds can also be spotted on the south coast during the winter, but they head for Lake Mývatn for breeding season around mid- March .

It’s important to note that the Gyrfalcon is a fully protected species and so, no specific location can be given about their breeding location.

While it is not commonly sighted, when it is spotted, it is usually around Lake Mývatn due to the abundance of prey, and around Reykjavík and the Reykjanes Peninsula in the winter.

If you are lucky enough to spot one, please be aware that approaching nesting sites is not permitted. Neither is sharing information about their breeding sites.

Brünnich’s guillemot (also known as thick-billed murre)

In the winter, you can spot this species in the north and east coast of Iceland. But if you happen to be here in the spring or summer, you may be able to observe a Brünnich’s guillemot around the various seabird cliffs around the country.

They are commonly spotted between the end of March and the end of July . As of where to go, we recommend:

• Lake Mývatn area, which is one of the most popular for birdwatching. That’s because it is well-known for its diverse birdlife, especially duck species (there are 14!).
• Látrabjarg bird cliff, located in the West fjords of Iceland, is the largest bird cliff in Europe at 14 kilometres long and up to 441 metres high. There you can get a closer look at millions of nesting sea birds, such as puffins, razorbills and guillemots.
• Hafnarhólmi in Borgarfjörður eystra offers visitors the perfect opportunity to see puffins.

Best time to visit Iceland's Golden Circle

We would recommend visiting during the shoulder season to have the best experience of the Golden Circle and its attractions.

Even though, it is worth mentioning that the Golden Circle is beautiful at all times of the year. In the winter, the landscape will be enchanting, dusted in snow and frost. In the summer, you can enjoy longer walks in the landscape and spend more time at each site.

However, at the peak of summer, you may find that you’re not alone at Þingvellir, Strokkur, or Gullfoss.

Indeed, as they are the closest sights to Reykjavík, they are easy to visit on a city break. It means these locations are usually more crowded than others, especially so at the height of summer.

For a bit of peace and quiet, visit on either side of the summer, in April, May, September or October.

• To travel along the Golden Circle and other iconic sights, look up these  classic holidays to Iceland

Best time to visit Iceland for hiking

Hiking in Iceland will be an unforgettable experience as the mountains aren’t just beautiful, but also full of stunning trails. It is also extremely dependent on weather due to the accessibility of those hiking trails.

The best time to visit Iceland for hikers will be between May and September. It is during these summer months that the trails are accessible and when there is the most daylight to take full advantage of the trails and Iceland’s natural beauty.

Hiking in the highlands  of Iceland is often limited by the opening of the road leading into the highlands after winter. This is all dependent on weather conditions and location, but will normally open from mid-June.

This also means that some hiking trails high up the mountains may still have snow in May. It is not recommended, as an example, to hike to Stórurð in May because it is usually covered in snow at that time. 

Please always be careful as a hiker to not put yourself in danger and always be ready for the weather conditions.

My favourite time to hike in Iceland is in midsummer when everything is green and lush. It can be even better if it’s raining, then the fragrance of nature is so fresh. During this time of year, the highlands turn into a fairy tale and the options are endless. Hills, lava fields, river banks... It doesn’t matter, it’s simply gorgeous! –Perla Magnúsdóttir, Travel consultant for Iceland

• To take on hiking or other adventurous endeavours in Iceland, check out our active tours

Best time to visit ice caves in Iceland

To explore and experience the surreal atmosphere of an ice cave, come in winter. Between mid-November and early March, you can book an adventure inside the Katla ice cave, located inside the Kötlujökull glacier. You could also walk through parts of the largest glacier in Iceland, Vatnajökull .

Visit the second largest glacier on the island, Langjökull, with the  Into The Glacier  experience. This is a man-made tunnel taking you into the depths of the glacier.  

Or, if you’re coming in summer and still want to experience an ice cave, pop by the Perlan in Reykjavík. This must-see attraction offers you the chance to walk through an artificial ice cave, made as a replica of a real glacier.

Best time to visit Iceland for northern lights

Aurora borealis are one of the most wonderful natural phenomenon to witness and many visitors come to Iceland just for this!

If this has always been on your bucket list, the season to see them is from mid-September until the middle of April, when darkness makes it more likely. But as these are naturally occurring, it means no one can guarantee you will see them.

Sighting depends both on northern lights activity and weather conditions, because it requires both dark and clear skies. You can read more about the northern lights and how best to capture it on our dedicated travel guide .

• Browse our  northern lights tours in Iceland
• Related : explore these northern lights tour packages  for other Nordic countries

Best time to visit for the midnight sun

To experience the midnight sun, you must visit Iceland during the height of the summer, between May and July. The longest day of the year is at the summer solstice on the 21 June, which means this is when midnight sun peaks in Iceland.

Although you may want to bring an eye-mask to sleep!

• To experience this phenomenon, check out  our midnight sun tours  in Iceland

Best time to visit Iceland for photography

Photographers will love Iceland regardless of the time of the year, month, or location. The Icelandic landscapes are breathtaking and extremely photogenic, if we can say so ourselves!

Moreover, when the weather is on your side, the light in Iceland is great for photographers!

During the winter months, photographers who look for wintry landscapes and snowy mountain tops will have plenty to enjoy. There is also one added bonus to winter photography in Iceland: blue and golden hour being during the day!

Yes, due to its location in the north, in the winter the sun doesn’t rise very high in the sky. This creates a golden hour that lasts for the duration of daylight (all dependent on the exact date).

Location wise, if you want to take some photos in the east and north of the country, you may want to visit during the summer and shoulder season, when the roads are more accessible and reliable.

And fear not, photographers will also be spoiled for golden and blue hour during the summer! At the peak of the summer months, they both can last for hours!

• Travel with a private, local guide at the wheel to see highlights of Iceland and take stunning photos on the way

Best time to visit Iceland for families

Coming to Iceland with your family may depend on school or work holidays, or what you’re looking for as an experience. Do you want to see the northern lights or experience the midnight sun? Look up our above categories to get a better idea.

What we do recommend is coming in the summer as there are more kid-friendly activities available at that time.

This includes whale-watching (it is also available in winter, but the seas are rougher at that time), hay cart puffin tours, and boat tours on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon . Something to interest all young adventurers!

Usually, I recommend travelling in the summer time with children, because the long daylight hours give families flexibility to stop frequently and for a longer time. - Kristín Halldóra Halldórsdóttir, Travel consultant for Iceland

We also recommend generally slower-paced tours where you can spend more than one night in one location. This is especially true in winter as you may have to change your plans last minute if the roads are closed due to the weather conditions.

• Discover amazing ways to see Iceland with your children with  our family friendly tours

Best time to visit Iceland for honeymoon

Honeymoons all depend on you! What are you planning for? Straight after your wedding or a bit later, when you’ve had time to save and prepare for your dream trip?

If you’ve always dreamed of a honeymoon in Iceland, the best time to come, may depend on what you want out of it.

• Do you want to go hike up one of the iconic Icelandic mountains? Summer.
• Do you want to visit the remote Westfjords ? Summer.
• Do you want to cosy up together and admire the northern lights? Winter.

We believe that travelling in the wintertime can be very romantic! There are fewer people in Iceland at that time of year. This means there are less visitors at each highlight, like the Golden Circle, giving you more time together in a more relaxed atmosphere.

Finally, our travel consultants would recommend spending at least more than one night in the locations you’re visiting, to give you the chance of a leisurely stay with your partner.

• See our romantic and honeymoon trips around Iceland

Best time of year to visit the Blue Lagoon, Iceland, & other spas

One way to take advantage of Iceland’s geothermal energy as a tourist (except for the wonderful sight of volcanoes of course!) is to go for a dip into one of the many geothermal pools.

The Blue Lagoon , Iceland’s most famous spa, is a must stop for many visitors. It is open all year round, but those won’t don’t like the cold may prefer to go in the summer.

However, it isn’t the only geothermal pool you can experience on your trip. There are many around the country, including natural hot springs and geothermally-heated public pools in the city of Reykjavík. Most are open all year long.

The winter dips won’t be for the faint hearted as you’ll have to shuffle in your bathing suit from the changing rooms into the water in the cold wind. But it's ultimately worth it!

• To take some time to enjoy the spas, look up these relaxation tours in Iceland

Best time to visit Iceland for hot springs

The beauty of hot springs is that they are warm all year long. That means you could visit at any time of the year and enjoy bathing in the warm, relaxing waters.

Summer is the best time to go hiking to remote areas where you’ll have hot springs to yourself. You may also find it easier to get into your swimming suit and walk in and out of the water during the summer.

The winter isn’t without its advantages though. You could warm up after a day of snowy excursions. Enjoy the difference between the cold air and hot water and admire the snow drop from your cosy spot.

• Take in the sights and dip in all the hot springs you want with an Icelandic road trip

Best time to visit Iceland to see whales

The summertime is the best time to come to Iceland if you want to whale watch. Taking usually a few hours, the excursion is a great addition to any trip around Iceland, especially for those who love to see wildlife. The best location is Húsavík in the north of Iceland.

The northern peninsula Snæfellsnes is also home to orcas if you would like to go orca watching.

Best time to visit for fun events and festivals

There are interesting festivals and events all year long in Iceland. But the summer sees most of the events of the year, as the good weather brings about a festive spirit!

There are also many festivals being held in smaller towns. Verslunarmannahelgin is the most popular weekend of the summer when there are celebrations in many towns around Iceland.

In June there are two big celebrations. The Iceland National Day marks Iceland’s independence from Denmark on the 17th June 1944. It is celebrated on the 17th June and is one of the most popular events of the summer.

The second is an outdoor music festival to celebrate the summer solstice. Held in Laugardalur in Reykjavík, the Secret Solstice Festival sees Icelandic and foreign bans perform under the midnight sun.

One festival we recommend is also Bræðslan, held in July every year in Borgarfjörður eystra in the east fjords of Iceland. It is a music festival where Icelandic and foreign bands perform.

Bakkagerði (the town in Borgarfjörður eystra) is one of the most remote villages in Iceland. It is located amongst a beautiful fjord with colourful mountains towering over the small town.

• Pair a stay in the city with some day tours in the gorgeous countryside with one of these multi-day tours in Iceland

August brings a good mix of interesting events in the capital, with the Reykjavík Pride, the Reykjavík Marathon and the Reykjavík Culture Night.

The latter is especially exciting as it celebrates Iceland’s diverse cultural scene. There are countless free events through the evening, including outdoor concerts, film screenings, art and photography exhibitions, street performances and a firework display by the harbour to close the night.

There are also two major festivals in the autumn that we need to mention. The first is Reykjavík International Film Festival (or RIFF) which features films from both Iceland and abroad (the winner takes home a Golden Puffin!). It is held every year between mid-September and mid-October.

The second is one of the biggest music festivals in the country, Iceland Airwaves. It is held every year in early November and if you love discovering new bands, this is for you!

And last but not least, you could always join us in December for New Year’s Eve celebrations !

For more information about events in Iceland, look at our annual events guide .

Best time to visit Iceland and Greenland

The best time to combine a tour to both these glorious Nordic islands is to travel in summer. Although you could visit at any time of the year, flights to Greenland from Iceland can be affected by severe winter weather.

For that reason, book your Greenland and Iceland trip between June and August. At this time, you’ll also enjoy nicer weather and longer daylight hours for more sightseeing.

You can bask in the glow of the midnight sun while admiring glaciers, icebergs, and more.

• Have a true Nordic experience by pairing Iceland and Greenland in one exciting trip

Did you find the perfect time for you to book your Iceland adventure? Or maybe you’re still not sure? Either way, get in touch with our Icelandic travel consultants . Based in Reykjavík, they’ll use their local knowledge to help you figure it all out.

All our itineraries can be tailored to you as well, so don’t hesitate to ask if you want to do something special. You can stay in a location longer, add excursions, day tours, or even spa days to your stay.

Our goal is to make sure you have a great time in Iceland!

  Camila grew up between the French Canadian and Chilean cultures, before moving to Scotland in 2012. When she’s not travelling or writing about travels, Camila loves to read, run, and puzzle. Her favourite destinations have been Reykjavík, Copenhagen, Estonia and Cape Town.  

Find Camila on LinkedIn .

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Best Time to Visit Iceland – Weather in Iceland by Month

Home | Travel | Europe | Iceland | Best Time to Visit Iceland – Weather in Iceland by Month

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When you consider all the important factors, the best time to visit Iceland is in September. This month’s average temperature, while unpredictable, isn’t as cold as the winter weather in Iceland . Plus, you can see the first northern lights of the season if you visit in September!

Moreover, Iceland boasts beautiful autumn landscapes full of mesmerizing colors, which is why we run Iceland photo tours during this month.

That said, the weather in Iceland in June , July, and August is best for enjoying the hiking trails. This is also the best time to see whales in Iceland and the friendly puffins that nest on the island.

The winter weather in Iceland is also a special sight to see, thanks to the spectacular white landscapes, which are tinted green at nightfall. This season is also the best time to see the northern lights in Iceland . If you visit in spring, don’t worry because you’ll see dreamy landscapes dotted with wildflowers.

As you can see, deciding on the best time to go to Iceland isn’t easy, but I promise that by the time you finish reading this guide, you’ll know when to travel to Iceland as well as when to return since this country is worth more than one trip.

It’s no wonder why there are Iceland vacation packages available year-round!

When is the best time to visit Iceland?

To help you decide on the best time to travel to Iceland , this guide will cover:

• What is Iceland’s climate like?

Spring weather in Iceland

Summer weather in Iceland

Autumn weather in Iceland

Winter weather in Iceland

At the end of the article, you’ll also find a section where we recommend when to go to Iceland based on your interests (northern lights, midnight sun, whale-watching, puffins, hiking, etc .)

What is Iceland’s climate like? – Weather in Iceland

Unlike other countries at the same latitude, Iceland’s climate isn’t extreme. This is due to the currents from the Gulf of Mexico, which sweep the southern and western coasts, resulting in mild winter and summer temperatures. There are also climate differences within the island; temperatures in Reykjavik are generally higher than in the Highlands.

In general, the winter and summer seasons are mild compared to other semi-arctic regions, giving the island a more oceanic climate. However, the weather in Iceland is quite variable throughout the day. This reflects the Icelandic proverb, “If you don’t like the weather, wait 5 minutes!”

Regardless of when you travel to Iceland , I recommend always packing waterproof winter clothes as well as lightweight clothing in case the temperatures rise. You can even bring your swimsuit if you plan on visiting the beautiful hot springs in Iceland .

Average temperature in Iceland

Temperatures in Iceland can vary depending on the region. In Reykjavik, the average winter temperature is 34 or 35 °F, while the median summer temp is 54 °F.

That said, the unpredictable weather in Iceland means that temperatures could drop to 14 °F or reach 77 °F, depending on the time of year. This applies to the entire southern area since, as the distance to the northern shortens, the winters get colder, with more snowfall. There can even be a difference of 5-20 degrees between one region of the island and another.

Average precipitation in Iceland

Precipitation is quite common in Iceland, although most of the rain and snowfall occurs in spring and autumn. The winter weather in Iceland includes rain, snow, and wind gusts, so be prepared.

Rain is especially frequent in Reykjavik, which can see up to 150 days of precipitation per year. In the north, specifically in Akureyri, the average number of rainy days per year is just over 100.

However, as I mentioned, Iceland’s climate is extremely variable, so on any given day, you could run into rain, snow, wind, and sun .

Sring weather in Iceland

Despite the rain, spring is the  best time to visit Iceland . The spring season begins in April when the snow starts to melt and the landscape changes over to grass and wildflowers.

The  weather in Iceland in April , May, and June ranges from 32° to 50° F, so it’s a colder spring season compared to what you would experience in other European countries. Moreover, the weather is quite variable and can quickly change from rain and wind to sun .

Weather in Iceland in April

Iceland’s spring season begins in April, which is when the winter thaw occurs. While the island’s spring temperatures are considered warm compared to other countries at the same latitude, they’re quite cool compared to other European cities.  Temperatures in Iceland  in April rarely reach 50° F.

April is also one of the rainiest months of the year, and since it’s a transitional month, it’s not uncommon for it to snow in some areas.

This is the  best time to go to Iceland  if you want to travel along  Iceland’s Ring Road  or  drive the Golden Circle . Despite the frequent precipitation, April brings forth some lovely spring colors, and the temperatures are pleasant for sightseeing.

• Hours of daylight : 14
• Hours of sunshine: 5
• Average low temperature : 32° F
• Average temperature : 37° F
• Average high temperature : 41° F
• Average rainy days : 18
• Average precipitation : 20mm
• Northern Lights : Maybe
• Whales : Maybe
• Puffins : No
• Highlands open : No

Weather in Iceland in May

By May, spring has arrived in Iceland, so you can enjoy the lovely colors and blossoming flowers.

The  weather in Iceland in May  is quite pleasant, although it rains frequently. Also, the access roads to the Highlands will most likely be closed if you visit during this month. That said, it’s the  best time to travel to Iceland  if you’re planning a  Ring Road itinerary  or you want to  drive the Golden Circle . Also, May is when the first puffins start to nest, and more whales begin to appear.

• Hours of daylight : 18-20
• Hours of sunshine : 6
• Average low temperature : 37 °F
• Average temperature : 43 °F
• Average high temperature : 48 °F
• Rainy days : 21
• Average precipitation : 40mm
• Northern Lights : No
• Whales : Yes
• Puffins : Yes

Summertime in Iceland is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities since the temperatures are warm, but not uncomfortable.

The peak of Iceland’s summer season is in June when the midnight sun shines 24 hours a day. July is one of the warmest months of the year, although you won’t get the suffocating heat and humidity of other European cities. During the summer months, there is less precipitation and wind .

Weather in Iceland in June

In June, you can see the midnight sun, a peculiar phenomenon in which the sun shines 24 hours a day. This makes June one of the  best times to go to Iceland . In addition to seeing this natural phenomenon, you can travel throughout the island without any issues since the access roads to the Highlands are finally open. This means that most of the things to do in Iceland are accessible during this month.

Occasionally there may be a colder day, but temperatures tend to be warm.

• Hours of daylight : 20-22
• Average low temperature : 45 °F
• Average temperature : 48 °F
• Average high temperature : 52 °F
• Highlands open : Yes

Weather in Iceland in July

The  weather in Iceland in July  is warm enough for the lupines to bloom, sweeping the landscapes with purple flowers. Without a doubt, this is one of the  best months to visit Iceland  if you want to enjoy this country’s natural beauty, including its flora and fauna. There is also lots of daylight in July, and the temperatures are good for walking around outside.

• Hours of daylight : 20
• Average low temperature : 48 °F
• Average temperature : 52 °F
• Average high temperature : 55 °F

Weather in Iceland in August

In August, the island is crowded with tourists, but it’s also one of the  best months to visit Iceland  if you want to go trekking in the Highlands.

The  weather in Iceland in August  is warmer than June and July, and there is less precipitation. There are also several festivals and events, as well as a variety of outdoor activities you can do.

• Hours of daylight : 15-16
• Hours of sunshine : 5
• Average low temperature : 46 °F
• Average high temperature : 56 °F
• Rainy days : 23
• Average precipitation : 30mm

Autumn is also a beautiful time to visit Iceland since the landscape is tinged with gorgeous fall foliage. Moreover,  Iceland’s temperatures  are still pleasant in autumn, even if they drop a few degrees and there are some rainy or windy days. Just be aware that in some areas, it can snow during this season.

Along with the pretty reds, oranges, and yellows, you can also see the green shades of the aurora borealis since September is the  best time to visit Iceland  to see the start of the Northern Lights .

Weather in Iceland in September

Iceland is full of incredible fall landscapes in September, and this is when the first Northern Lights appear in the sky. This is the  best time of year to visit Iceland  if you like landscape photography since you can capture amazing shots of the green moss sprinkled into the red and orange autumn hues.

• Hours of daylight : 12-13
• Hours of sunshine : 4
• Average low temperature : 41 °F
• Average temperature : 45 °F
• Northern Lights : Yes

Weather in Iceland in October

October brings the first snowfall of the season, so the access roads to the Highlands begin to close. During this month, there aren’t too many tourists, so it’s the  best time of year to visit Iceland  if you’re looking for some peace.

While visiting Iceland in October, the temperatures don’t get too low, so it’s still possible to travel around the island without being sidetracked by snow. It’s also an ideal month if you’re looking for the  best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland . In short, October is a good time to enjoy a bit of everything Iceland has to offer.

• Hours of daylight : 9
• Hours of sunshine : 2
• Average low temperature : 36 °F
• Average temperature : 39 °F
• Average high temperature : 43 °F

Iceland’s climate  in winter isn’t too harsh, although some regions can see temperatures as low as -4° F. In addition to snowfall, strong winds are quite frequent, but again, the  weather in Iceland  is variable year-round. So, it’s important to keep a close eye on the forecast and road conditions, especially in the winter months.

This time of year is also very pretty, as the landscape turns white and green at night when the Northern Lights appear.

If you’re going to travel during the winter season, I recommend checking our guide to  driving in Iceland .

Weather in Iceland in November

November is the  best time to visit Iceland  and spot killer whales around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and along the south coast. Trust me when I say that  whale-watching in Iceland  is one of the best things you’ll experience during your trip.

It’s also one of the  best months to visit Iceland  if you want to see the Northern Lights, although you’ll need the weather to cooperate and give you cloudless skies.

• Hours of daylight : 5-6
• Average low temperature : 32 °F
• Average temperature : 37 °F
• Average high temperature : 41 °F
• Rainy days : 20

Weather in Iceland in December

Celebrating Christmas in Iceland can be a magical experience thanks to the snow-covered landscapes. December marks the start of winter, so it’s when the temperatures are at their lowest. However, this is also one of the  best times to visit   Iceland’s hot springs , especially  Blue Lagoon . Soaking in an outdoor thermal bath while you’re surrounded by wintry scenery is a spectacular thing to do in Iceland.

• Hours of daylight : 4
• Hours of sunshine : 0
• Average low temperature : 30 °F
• Average temperature : 36 °F
• Average high temperature : 39 °F
• Rainy days : 19

Weather in Iceland in January

January is the least touristy month of the year, so it’s also the  cheapest time to travel to Iceland . Not only that, but the snowy landscapes are beautiful and there are tons of outdoor activities to enjoy. Again, this is a good month to visit  Blue Lagoon  and other hot springs around the island.

• Hours of daylight : 5
• Hours of sunshine : 1
• Average low temperature : 27 °F
• Average temperature : 32 °F
• Average high temperature : 37 °F
• Average precipitation : 50mm

Weather in Iceland in February

In February, the Icelandic landscapes are still snowy, so it’s a beautiful time of year to visit. During this month, you can also see some frozen waterfalls. While there are several gorgeous  waterfalls in Iceland , seeing them frozen in the winter months is a unique experience.

• Average low temperature : 28 °F
• Average high temperature : 36 °F
• Rainy days : 16

Weather in Iceland in March

By March, the first signs of spring are appearing, so the  climate in Iceland  begins to improve. Moreover, there are usually fewer clouds and high KP rates coinciding with the spring equinox, making March one of the  best times to see the Northern Lights in Iceland .

That said, there is still snow, but the  temperatures in Iceland  will be more pleasant even if it’s cold. Plus, there are more hours of daylight so you can take advantage of your trip.

• Hours of daylight : 11
• Rainy days : 18

What is the best time to go to Iceland?

I can’t say which is the best month to visit Iceland since each one has its distinct appeal. Therefore, any time of year is a good time to visit this country, although I recommend choosing a month that coincides with your interests.

To make it easier for you to decide, I’ll share the best time to do the most popular activities in Iceland.

Best time to visit Iceland for the Northern Lights

Best time to go hiking in Iceland

Best time to see whales in Iceland

Best time to see puffins in Iceland

Best time to see the midnight sun in Iceland

Best time to visit ice caves in Iceland

Cheapest time to travel to Iceland

If you’re wondering about the best time to visit Iceland for the Northern Lights , I suggest reading our guide on where and when to see the Northern Lights in Iceland . Winter is the best season, especially in March when there are fewer clouds and high KP rates that coincide with the spring equinox. However, mid-September to mid-April is also a good time to see auroras.

I recommend taking a Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik for those who aren’t sure how to spot the aurora borealis or those who have never seen them. During the tour, expert guides will take you to the best places where the sky conditions favor the Northern Lights. I recommend this tour in particular because you can repeat it free of charge if you don’t see any auroras your first time.

Also, if you can, be sure to stay at one of the best Northern Lights hotels in Iceland .

The summertime is the best time to go to Iceland if you want to go hiking. During the summer months, the climate is quite pleasant, and you can get to the Highlands of Iceland without any issues. Also, it’s when the best campsites in Iceland are open.

It is precisely in the Highlands that you’ll find the best hiking routes. So, if your goal is to take some beautiful treks, then June, July, August, and September are the best months to visit Iceland . July, in particular, is the most ideal month since the temperatures are very nice and the days are longer .

The best time to visit Iceland for whale watching is from June to August, although you can spot cetaceans year-round, especially from Reykjavik.

If you’re longing to see whales in Iceland, I suggest visiting the country during the summer months because it can be hard to spot them in the winter. That said, if you travel in the winter months and book a tour in Reykjavik, you’ll have a higher chance of seeing whales. Plus, they’ll let you repeat the tour for free if you don’t see any cetaceans the first time.

For summer tourists, the best tours depart from Húsavik and Akureyri. We loved this excursion , but you can also check our guide to the best whale-watching tours in Iceland .

The best time to see puffins in Iceland is from April to August. These small birds come to the island every spring to mate, so it’s easy to spot them on the cliffs in southern Iceland. If you want to see these cute creatures, I recommend visiting the basalt cliffs in Vik or Dyrhóaley.

You can also book a tour to see puffins, and I recommend this excursion that departs from Reykjavik .

Along with the Northern Lights, the midnight sun is one of Iceland’s most popular phenomena. While we haven’t had the opportunity to see it yet, we plan on doing so during one of our upcoming trips to Iceland.

The best time of year to visit Iceland if you want to see the midnight sun is during the summer solstice, which occurs around June 21st. During this time, the sun shines for 24 hours a day in the Icelandic region above the Arctic Circle. So, to fully experience the midnight sun, you’ll have to travel to the north of the country .

The best time to visit ice caves in Iceland is in the winter since the caves require low temperatures to form large masses of ice. The summer temperatures in Iceland are too warm to sustain the caves, so if you want to see these unique formations, plan your trip between mid-November and mid-March.

February is the best month to visit Iceland if you want to see the ice caves, particularly the deep blue caverns in the Vatnajökull glacier. I recommend booking this tour to see the full splendor of this beautiful cave.

The best thing about these caves is that they’re different every year. That is, the shapes and sizes vary depending on how the ice masses formed, so no matter how many times you visit, it’ll be a one-of-a-kind experience .

If you’re looking for the cheapest time to visit Iceland , come here during the winter months. Between January and May, the tourism industry slows down, so you can find great prices on flights and accommodations. Prices are especially low in January!

That said, some hotels close during this time, so be sure to do your research before booking your trip. Fortunately, you won’t have any trouble deciding where to stay in Iceland because plenty of hotels are open year-round.

From June to December, prices go up for Iceland’s peak tourism season. If you’re going to visit during these months, I suggest booking your accommodation in advance since lots of tourists will be traveling here, especially in August.

Iceland may seem an expensive country so check our guide on how to travel on a budget for some tips and tricks!

Best month to visit Iceland

As you may have already discovered, there is no best month to visit Iceland because each season has something special to offer. If you decide to travel during the winter months, you can enjoy lovely snow-covered landscapes as well as ice caves, frozen waterfalls, and the Northern Lights.

If you visit during the spring, you’ll have the chance to see the winter thaw and drive along the Ring Road or the Golden Circle, two popular road trips that take you to some of the best spots in Iceland.

Summer is the best time to see puffins in Iceland , as well as whales and the midnight sun, while autumn in Iceland is a magical season full of gorgeous colors and foliage.

To summarize, here is what you can do based on the weather in Iceland by month :

I hope that now you feel more confident about deciding when to travel to Iceland so you can enjoy the activities that interest you most. I can assure you that you’ll fall in love with this country regardless of when you visit. Finally, remember to check what the weather will be like tomorrow by going to the official Icelandic weather website, Vedur.is .

If you have any questions about the best time to go to Iceland , leave me a comment below and I’ll try to help you as much as I can. I hope you enjoy this lovely country as much as we do! Safe travels!

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Best Time to Visit Iceland: When to Go & When to Avoid!

Home » Blog » Travel Tips » Best Time to Visit Iceland: When to Go & When to Avoid!

Despite it’s frosty name, Iceland experiences four distinct seasons, each with its own unique draw for visitors. We’ll go over the pros and cons of each season to figure out when is the best time to visit Iceland for your travels.

Iceland may not be quite as icy year-round as its name suggests. However, it still experiences 4 distinct seasons, each with its own unique draw for visitors.

You’ll see migrant birds returning to the coastal areas during the spring, hiking, whale watching and music festivals draw crowds in the summer, autumn brings with it the best time for Northern Lights viewing, and powdery snow covers the land for epic snow activities come wintertime. The truth is, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Iceland all year round. 

So this begs the question…

When is the best time to visit Iceland?

In general you’ll have the best weather, and most opportunity for hiking and outdoor activities during the summer months, from June – August. If viewing the Northern Lights is what you seek, visiting during the shoulder seasons of September – October and February – March are when we’d recommend.

Truthfully, the answer is so much more complicated than that. The best time to visit Iceland might be different depending on what kind of traveler you are and what you hope to do and see while you’re there.

Each season has its own unique draws (and drawbacks too).

We’re going to go over the pros and cons of visiting Iceland during each season to help you decide which time of year is ideal for YOU.

Best time to visit Iceland guide

Our experience.

• Questions to ask yourself

Iceland geography overview

Weather in iceland, summer in iceland, fall in iceland, winter in iceland, spring in iceland.

• What to pack for Iceland
• FAQs about when to visit Iceland

Overall BEST time to visit Iceland

Want a quick recommendation? Jump down to see our personal advice for the best time to visit Iceland. Plus, we’ll share what times of year we’d avoid visiting!

• Our Recommendation…

Want to save time and energy on planning?

We’ve traveled to Iceland 3 times now and spent weeks living in a campervan, traveling around the country. We’ve been able to explore a lot of what Iceland has to offer!

We’ve complied our experience to create the  perfect Iceland itinerary . Our itinerary is for 7-9 days and meant to be explored while traveling in a campervan. It includes the  highlights of the southern coast of Iceland. 

We’ll send you our complete 7-9 day customizable itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your  perfect Iceland itinerary  today!

We’ve visited Iceland in both summer & winter

When: mid-August (both in 2016 & 2021) 

Type of trip: both times were road trip on the Ring Road; 2015 was tent camping and 2021 was in a campervan

Our experience:

• We needed to book tours and accommodation well in advance because this is the busiest time of the year.
• Most crowded places are in Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, and Vik.
• Both times we visited in August, we lucked out and got a weather window where the northern lights were visible (not super vibrant, but a good surprise!)
• First trip we got zero rain, second trip we got a handful of rainy days
• Had a couple of very hot days, but mostly cool weather
• The sun set after 10 p.m. and rose before 5 a.m., so we had lots of daylight for long days of exploring!

Would we recommend visiting Iceland in August? 

Yes! I think it’s truly one of the best times of the year to travel to Iceland. If you have flexibility, I think early to mid-September would be nice as well and the crowds will start thinning (prices may start to decrease a bit too). Some seasonally-open businesses close shop in September or October, so do a little research before choosing.

When: mid-December (2019)

Type of trip: 2-day stopover coming home from a European Christmas market trip

• Way fewer tourists than in summer
• Much cheaper hotel rates
• Only a handful of hours with daylight makes exploring difficult
• Very cold and dark
• Many places outside of Reykjavik are closed in the winter
• I drove a car and the roads were fine (but I was mostly around the Reykjavik and Keflavik areas)
• Cloudy skies made it impossible to see the northern lights while we were there
• Blue Lagoon at midday was a cool experience because we saw the sun rise and set all within a few hours  

Would we recommend visiting Iceland in December?  

It depends. I wouldn’t recommend winter if it’s your first trip to Iceland and you want to see a lot on a road trip. With very little daylight, it’s hard to do much exploring during the day. It can make a great stopover trip on your way to or from Europe’s Christmas markets (this is what I did!). And if you get lucky, you may be able to see the northern lights!

When is the best time to visit Iceland for YOU?

Thinking about your answers to the following questions is going to help you start to determine when to visit Iceland:

Do you mind cold weather? 

While you’ll have chances of cold weather year round (yes, even in the summertime!), you’ll mostly likely want to avoid winter if you don’t do well in frigid temperatures.

Are you planning to road trip around Iceland?

Some attractions and businesses are only open in the summer months. If there are certain things you really want to do in Iceland, be sure you know whether or not they’ll be open or accessible during the season in which you plan to visit.

Also, driving during the winter may mean some roads are icy or have a layer of snow. Be sure you feel comfortable with this before renting a car in Iceland for a winter trip.

Luckily Iceland’s famous route for circumnavigation is open in all seasons and you can road trip Ring Road all year round.

Are you on a budget?

Consider avoiding peak season (aka the summer months) to save quite a bit of money. We’ve got plenty more budget tips for Iceland to help you plan your trip. 

Are you hoping to get a glimpse of the Northern Lights?

You’ll have the best chance of spotting them during the winter months. That said, you may get lucky and see them at other times of the year (with the exception of mid-May through mid-August). 

Do you plan to do a lot of hiking? 

Many popular Iceland hiking trails are only accessible during the summer months. Be sure to account for this if you plan to do a lot of hiking on your trip to Iceland.

What kind of wildlife are you hoping to see? 

Puffins and whales, for instance, have certain “seasons” for spotting them. 

Do the daylight hours affect your sleep, either not having enough light or having too much light? 

If you visit in the summer, expect to fall asleep while it’s light outside. And on the flip side, wintertime in Iceland comes with long hours of darkness.

What is the purpose of your trip to Iceland?

Are you in Iceland on a layover and exploring Reykjavík in 1 day ? If so, you could really find things to do in any season. Or are you planning a big hiking and camping adventure in Iceland ? If this is the case, summer is going to be a much more comfortable time of year to travel.

Located just below the Arctic Circle Iceland is an island national in the North Atlantic, situated on one of the earth’s so-called “hot spots.” The country sees lots of geothermal activity, including hot springs, geysers, mud pools, volcanos, and the occasional earthquake. 

It’s one of the few places on earth where two tectonic plates meet on the earth’s surface (as opposed to under the water). 

In fact, Iceland is actually being pulled apart by the Eurasian and the North American plates. This is creating a massive divide that runs through the center of the country. At Þingvellir National Park, you can actually go diving or snorkeling in the Silfra fissure between the 2 continents. 

Sitting on top of a volcanic plateau, the vast majority of the country is an arctic desert. Known as the Land of Fire and Ice , Glaciers cover over 11.5% of the country (4,600 sq. miles!).

The rest of topography across the country varies from mountains and lava fields to black sand beaches and fjords, with lots and lots of waterfalls dotted in between. Most of the vegetation and agriculture is in the lowlands near the coast.   

Weather is going to vary throughout the year, but in general, Iceland has a more mild climate than its name implies…

Thanks to the warming effects of the Gulf Stream, Iceland has a temperate climate year round. The country experiences cool summers and mild winters where the temps rarely drop much below freezing.

However, Iceland is infamous for its unusually volatile shifts in weather. It is not uncommon to experience all four seasons in one day. This is because the Gulf Stream brings mild Atlantic air (all the way from the Caribbean) in contact with the chilly Arctic air, which causes sudden and frequent shifts in the weather. 

There is a popular saying with the locals you are sure to hear while visiting Iceland that says, “If you don’t like the weather, just wait 15 minutes.” 

Precipitation peaks from October – February with the southern and western parts of the country receiving the most rainfall.

Wind is also a big factor of the weather in Iceland and is a constant year round. You should always be prepared for the wind to pick up at any moment, and exercise caution while driving in high velocity winds. 

Stats on the weather in Iceland

• Warmest month in Iceland: August
• Coldest month in Iceland: February
• Rainiest month(s) in Iceland: Oct – Feb
• Driest month(s) in Iceland: Jun – Jul
• Most crowded month(s) in Iceland: Jun – Aug
• Least crowded month(s) in Iceland: Nov – Feb

Iceland Trip Cost + Sneaky Budget Tips

Perfect 7 Day Iceland Itinerary

Iceland Campervan Rental Guide (+ Discount!)

Summer just below the arctic circle means long daylight hours and warmer temperatures. The midnight sun sheds 24 hours of daylight on the land surrounding the summer solstice in June. Meadows turn bright green and livestock roams the countryside.

Highland roads (F-roads) open up after being closed all winter. This makes summer the best time for serious hikers to visit as all the famous trails that will be accessible.

The best months for whale watching are June and July. The north enjoys visits from humpbacks, minkes and dolphins from May – August and a few humpbacks even stick around until the end of the year. Blue whales are spotted passing through in June. 

Summer is also Iceland’s peak tourism season and travelers should look at booking well in advance to secure accommodation, tours and transportation.

Summer months at a glance:

• Average Daylight Hours in June: 20-21 hours
• Average Daylight Hours in July: 21-18 hours
• Average Daylight Hours in August: 18-15 hours

Best places to visit during summer in Iceland

• Valley of Landmannalaugar: only accessible during the summer or by tour during the winter
• Þórsmörk Valley: also only accessible during summer
• Silfra fissure for diving/snorkeling
• Seljalandsfoss waterfall at sunset: best seen on a clear day during golden hour
• Stuðlagil Canyon : summer is your best chance to see the river in its striking shade of blue
• Sólheimasandur plane crash: go during “after hours” with the midnight sun to avoid the crowds
• Moss-covered lava fields
• Fjaðrárgljúfur: grassy canyon valley

Psst! Looking for some more ideas of romantic things to do? We’ve got you covered with our Iceland Honeymoon guide !

Best things to do during summer in Iceland

• Hiking the Icelandic highlands: Laugavegurinn and Fimmvörðuháls (accessible only during July and August)
• River rafting
• Chasing (Iceland) waterfalls
• Whale watching
• Midnight golfing – it’s a thing, look it up!
• Sjomannadagurinn (Seamans’ Day) on the first weekend of June celebrates the importance of fishing to Icelandic life.
• Culture Night: August in Reykjavík
• Secret Solstice Music Festival: June in Reykjavík

Trying to figure out how to fit it all into one week? We’ve put together the perfect 7-day Iceland itinerary to help you plan your travels in this nature-lover’s paradise.

Summer is the best time to visit Iceland if…

• …you don’t mind crowds too much.
• …you want plenty of daylight and warmer temperatures.
• …you want to do lots of hiking in the highlands.
• …you want to experience the midnight sun.
• …you want to see Iceland looking lush & green.
• …you can make your bookings well in advance.
• …you have a bigger budget to work with.

With autumn in Iceland comes cooler temperatures and the beginning of Northern Lights viewing season. While Iceland doesn’t experience the changing of the leaves like other parts of the world, moss growing on volcanic lava formations gives nature an added splash of fall color.

September and October are the best months to check out the hot springs and hidden “hot pots” around Iceland as the mountain roads are usually still open, but the crowds have dwindled significantly. 

Autumn experiences similar temperatures to the spring in Iceland, but may feel windier in comparison. However, the daylight hours are still pretty normal, so this shoulder season makes for a good time to visit without as much crowds.

Fall months at a glance

• Average Daylight Hours in September: 15-12 hours
• Average Daylight Hours in October: 12-8 hours

Best places to visit during fall in Iceland

• Blue Lagoon
• Myvatn Nature Baths
• Thingvellir National Park – bathed in color!
• Most popular waterfalls: Dettifoss, Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, Svartifoss, Skogafoss, and Goðafoss

Best things to during fall in Iceland

• Catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights – best seen in Sept & Oct during the fall
• Drive the Golden Circle
• Road trip Ring Road around the entire country
• Witness a roundup – when the farmers start to gather their sheep and horses in for the winter
• Eve Fanfest – April in Reykjavík
• Reykjavík Film Festival – September

Thinking about renting a car to do a road trip? Check out our ultimate guide to planning your Iceland road trip to find all the info you’ll need!

Fall is the best time to visit Iceland if…

• …you are seeking hot springs and “hot pots” around the country.
• …you are hoping to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
• …you prefer fewer crowds.
• …you enjoy cool and crisp air.
• …you want to plan a road trip around Ring Road.

Contrary to what you might think, winters are surprisingly mild in Iceland. The winter weather is said to be comparable to Hamburg or NYC. Snow can fall from October through April, but rarely stays on the ground for more than a few days, making it a great European winter vacation (if you don’t mind little daylight, that is!). 

The Northern Lights are best seen in the wintertime when there are long, dark nights. But it is important to keep in mind that they are still quite illusive and you shouldn’t plan your trip to Iceland solely for Northern Lights, or you might wind up disappointed.

Lack of daylight from November through January is a complication for photographers and outdoor adventure seekers. However, the low angle of the sun in December casts the golden hour effect on the snow-covered landscapes and makes for excellent photographs. Plus, if visiting an ice cave is on your bucket list you’ll want to be here in the winter months, which is the only time they are open for tours.

Road conditions can be a bit treacherous during winter, and many highland roads (F-roads) are closed, which means this is not a good time for road tripping or hiking.

Orcas can be spotted in West Iceland along the Snaefellsnes peninsula during the first half of the year, peaking in February and March.

Winter months at a glance

• Average Daylight Hours in November: 8-5 hours
• Average Daylight Hours in December: 5-4 hours
• Average Daylight Hours in January: 5-7 hours
• Average Daylight Hours in February: 7-10 hours
• Average Daylight Hours in March: 10-14 hours

Best places to visit during winter in Iceland

• Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall 
• Strokkur geyser – erupts every 10 minutes and you can really feel the heat in the wintertime
• Gullfoss Falls – In the winter, Iceland’s iconic rocky fields become flat white sheets and the falls themselves form icy chunks at the edges.
• Svinafellsjökull Glacier

Wondering what to budget for a week in Iceland? We’ve got you covered with our full Iceland budget breakdown .

Best things to do during winter in Iceland

• Glacier Hiking
• Snowmobiling 
• Viewing/photographing the Northern Lights – best seen in Feb & March during the winter
• Horseback riding, outdoor swimming and other snow activities
• Orca watching (Feb – March)
• Ice cave tours
• New Years Eve celebrations around Reykjavík
• Winter Lights Festival – February in Reykjavík
• Iceland Airwaves – November in Reykjavík

Winter is the best time to visit Iceland if…

• …you’re not a morning person (less daylight hours means the sun doesn’t rise until almost mid-day!)
• …you don’t mind colder temperatures.
• …you want to avoid the crowds.
• …you hope to view the Northern Lights.
• …you want to go inside an ice cave.
• …you want to save money and travel during the off-season.

The snow is melting and rain and wind are the primary weather patterns during the spring in Iceland. However, you will get the occasional clear and sunny day.

Temperatures start to warm up and nature comes back to life. Migrant birds, such as the puffin, start returning to the coastal areas and bird-viewing becomes a popular activity.

April through May is the spring shoulder season in Iceland. It is still possible to catch the Northern Lights, however, your chances of a good viewing are significantly decreased as the days get longer.

Spring months at a glance

• Average Daylight Hours in April: 14-17 hours
• Average Daylight Hours in May: 17-20 hours

Best places to visit during spring in Iceland

• Faxaflói bay – puffin viewing in May
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Ice Beach
• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
• Dyrholaey – puffin spotting in May & summer

Best things to do during spring in Iceland

• Check out the sights on Iceland’s Golden Circle
• Fishing, whale watching and golf season begin
• Bird-watching, particularly for Iceland’s beloved puffins
• Check out some of Iceland’s best hot springs
• Vaka Folk Festival – May in Reykjavík
• Aldrei For Eg Sudur music festival – April in Reykjavík

Spring is the best time to visit Iceland if…

• …you want more “normal” daylight hours.
• …you want to do some bird watching.
• …you don’t mind a bit of unpredictable weather.

What to pack for your trip to Iceland

Packing for a trip to Iceland is tough (the weather changes all the time!). But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a  super detailed packing list  so you know exactly what to bring. 

In this free Iceland packing list PDF download , we’ve provided packing checklists for everything from clothing and toiletries (for both women and men!) to what shoes to pack and extra medicines you may want to have on-hand just in case.

Plus, we’re sharing tons of packing hacks and tips for traveling in Iceland that you won’t find anywhere else!

FAQs about visiting Iceland

Still have questions about the best time to visit Iceland? Wanna know more about what to expect in Iceland throughout the year? We’ve got all your questions answered here.

What’s the best weather app for Iceland?

The best way to get the weather forecast is to install the  Veður app . This is the only Iceland weather app directly tied to the Icelandic Meteorological Office. We found it to be way more accurate than Apple Weather for Iceland. 

Find out what other  Iceland travel apps  we recommend downloading before your trip!

What’s the best month to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

There are three essential factors that need to align in order to see the Northern Lights in Iceland: darkness, clear skies and a surge in solar activity. You can see the Northern Lights from late-August until May. 

However, you’ll have the best chances of seeing the spectacular display of Northern Lights in Iceland during September and March , during the spring and autumn equinoxes when the skies are dark enough and geomagnetic activity is particularly high. 

When can you see puffins in Iceland?

The best time to visit Iceland if you want to see the puffins is during the spring and summer months. These loveable little birds typically arrive in May and depart by the end of August. The colonies are most active during the evenings, so it’s best to plan your visit to the cliffs of Dyrholaey or the black sand beach where they are known to nest, for evening time. 

What is the best time for whale watching in Iceland?

June and July are the best months to visit Iceland for whale watching. The north enjoys visits from humpbacks, minkes and dolphins from May – August and a few humpbacks even stick around until the end of the year. Blue whales are spotted passing through in June. 

What are some things you can do all year round in Iceland?

• Soak in hot springs
• Try Icelandic food
• Explore Reykjavík
• Chase waterfalls

Want more ideas? Check out all the absolute best things to do in Iceland to start writing your bucket list. 

What are F-roads and why do they matter?

An F-road is the term given to mountain roads in Iceland that are only accessible by 4×4 vehicle. These are similar to “fire roads” in the United States, leading you into the backcountry and to the start of some pretty epic hikes.

Like fire roads, they’re really not maintained at all. For this reason they require you to have a 4×4 vehicle to drive on them by law and are closed most of the year except for summer time, based on road conditions. You can check the current conditions here .

How many days do you need in Iceland?

In order to get a good taste of all that Iceland has to offer, we’d suggest spending a minimum of one week in Iceland. If you happen to have more time than that, great! There is so much to see and do in this country you could spend months here and not get bored.  

We think one week is the perfect amount of time to soak up plenty of the highlights and get to know the country a bit better. In fact, we’ve put together the perfect 7-day Iceland itinerary for your first visit. This itinerary includes day-by-day instructions, photos and tips that will help you plan your road trip to the southern coast and through the iconic Golden Circle.

Is Iceland expensive?

In short, yes. Iceland is expensive and that fact is pretty much unavoidable. 

Because most things have to be imported to this small island nation, prices are at a premium. Expect to pay a small fortune for accommodation, eating out is a luxury here, and don’t even get me started on what a gallon of gas costs! 

Lucky for you, we’ve got you covered. We broke down exactly what we paid for everything in our Iceland budget article . Plus we included some sneaky budget tips you’ll want to read before planning your visit.

What is the cheapest time to visit Iceland?

Simply put, the cheapest time to visit Iceland is going to be during the off-season winter months. This means the best time to visit Iceland if you’re on a budget is October – early-December and January – April. (The holiday season in December sees a spike in tourism traffic in Iceland.)

In our opinion…

We’ve traveled to Iceland during the summer and winter month and found advantages to both seasons.

Since we are big on hiking and all the outdoor experiences, we’d recommend visiting Iceland during the summertime if you can swing it. This way you’ll have the most opportunities to experience the outdoors. Plus, Iceland isn’t typically as crowded, even during high season, as other European destinations.

Personally, we would not recommend planning a trip to Iceland just to see the Northern Lights. It’s really a matter of luck with the weather and ideal conditions. And there are other, less expensive places you can see the phenomenon.

You wouldn’t want to plan your entire trip around just the northern lights (there are so many more epic things to do in Iceland after all!). We like to think of this as an added bonus if you get to see them.

Are you planning a trip to Iceland?

We have TONS of resources on travel in Iceland and how to make the most out of your trip. Check out our Ultimate Iceland Travel Guide for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Perfect Iceland Itinerary
• Iceland Trip Cost + Surprising Budget Tips
• Iceland Campervan Rental Guide (+ Exclusive Discount)
• Absolute Best Things to Do in Iceland

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• Best Time To Travel To Iceland

Best Time To Travel to Iceland

Replete with icecaps and glaciers, steaming solfataras and spouting geysers, and much more, Iceland is a true Nordic gen that you simply must visit at least once in your life. The country is home to numerous geological wonders that you can explore on your Iceland tour package . However, before you can start planning your next vacation to Iceland, it is important to know what the best time is to travel to Iceland.

The Best Time to Travel to Iceland for a Perfect Vacation

To plan a picture-perfect break in the Nordic beauty that is Iceland, you first need to know the best time to visit Iceland. One of the many charms of Iceland is that you can visit the country at any time during the year, but it is your choice of activities that you want to do and the adventures you want to have that will help you decide what the best time to see Iceland is for you.

The Peak Season

• Best Time to Visit Iceland for the Weather

Exploring Iceland in the Summers

Exploring iceland in the winters, the best time to visit iceland to explore reykjavík, the best time for visiting iceland for birdwatching, the best time for visiting iceland to explore the golden circle, the best time for visiting iceland for hiking, a good time to go to iceland for ice caving, a good time to go to iceland to witness the northern lights, best time to go to iceland to experience the midnight sun.

The months from June to August are the peak season in Iceland and this is when the country experiences the mildest weather and the most daylight. This is a good time to go to Iceland as most activities are available for tourists to enjoy. The winter months in Iceland are also becoming quite popular as people from across the world flock to the country to witness the Northern Lights.

Best Time to Visit Iceland for the Best Weather

Iceland is not as cold as you may think from its name, as the country enjoys a temperate climate throughout the year. However, it is also very likely for the weather to undergo drastic changes within the span of a day as well. If you want to experience the maximum sunlight during the day and are looking for the mildest weather, either June, July, or August may be the best month to visit Iceland for you. A shoulder month, like September or May, is the best month to go to Iceland for those who are looking for a quieter holiday, as the shoulder season usually has fewer crowds and the weather is also mild, though it may be a little more unpredictable as well.

On the other hand, if you want to enjoy crisp, snowy days, you might want to plan your trip for the winter months, which, including the shoulder months, last from October to April.

The summers are considered to be the best time to travel to Iceland among a majority of travellers because of the weather. The ample amounts of daylight are great for sightseeing and for partaking in all the activities that Iceland has to offer. The summers also have a lot of festivals that you can enjoy. Another reason why the summers may be the best period to visit Iceland is so you can plan a road trip amidst the mesmerising natural vistas that spread across the country. The summers are also a good time to explore the ethereal black sand Iceland beaches that dot the rugged coastline of the country.

With time, the winters are gaining a lot of popularity among travellers for the longer nights of the winter and the natural phenomenon of the aurora borealis. Despite Iceland being a year-round destination, there are fewer activities for visitors to enjoy during the winters, given the less daylight. The winters are also the best time to travel to Iceland to experience Northern Lights.

Reykjavík is a cultural and colourful city in Iceland that is known for its year-round festivals, including the New Year’s Eve celebrations. Reykjavík is the capital city of Iceland and houses a number of world-renowned attractions. The best time to see Iceland’s capital city again depends on what you plan to do during your visit. Most of the museums in the city are open throughout the year, as are the swimming pools, heated using geothermal power. However, the best time to travel to Iceland will depend on the specific events that you want to attend. For instance, the Iceland Airwaves are held in November, Cultural Night is in August, and the Secret Solstice is in June.

While any time is a good time to go to Iceland, most bird species are migratory and spend very little part of the year in the country, which means that there is indeed a certain period to visit Iceland that is best for birdwatching. In general, the best time for visiting Iceland is from mid-April to the end of June, when the most bird species can be spotted. However, if you want to spot puffins, the harlequin duck, barrow’s goldeneye, the gyrfalcon, or the Brünnich’s guillemot, the best season to go to Iceland will vary. Puffins can be best spotted from May to August and the harlequin duck during the winters. Barrow’s goldeneye can be spotted all year round around Lake Mývatn. The gyrfalcon is a fully protected species, so its exact breeding location is not given out, but in rare cases, it can be spotted around Lake Mývatn, Reykjavík, and around the Reykjanes Peninsula. The Brünnich’s guillemot or the thick-billed murre can be spotted from the end of Match to the end of July.

The best time to visit Iceland to experience the attractions of the Golden Circle is during the country’s shoulder season. However, it is important to state here that the Golden Circle is a great place throughout the year. In the winters, the landscapes are dusted with snow and frost, while the summers may seem a bit crowded. For those looking for a quieter time, the best time to visit Iceland is either during April and May or during September and October.

Hiking amidst the stunning trails across the beautiful mountains is one of the most unforgettable experiences that you can have in Iceland. Accessing the hiking trails of Iceland depends very much on the weather, which is why the best time to visit Iceland for hiking is between May and September. However, some of the hiking trails, high up in the mountains, may still be covered with snow during May. Plus, hiking across the highlands of Iceland is often limited based on the opening of the road that leads to the highlands post-winter. Normally, the road opens by mid-June. Another reason why the summers are the best time to see Iceland and its hiking trails is because you will have the most daylight to enjoy the outdoors.

Exploring the surreal atmosphere of an ice cave is another great experience that awaits you in Iceland and the best time to visit Iceland to explore its ice caves is from the middle of November to the beginning of March. You can adventure in the Katla ice cave inside the Kötlujökull glacier or walk through parts of Vatnajökull, which is the largest glacier in Iceland. On the other hand, the second largest glacier in the country offers an ‘Into the Glacier’ experience where you can walk through a man-made tunnel into the depths of the glacier. You can also experience an ice cave at Perlan in Reykjavík, where you can walk through an artificial ice cave that has been made as a replica of a real Icelandic glacier.

The best time to visit Iceland to witness the natural phenomenon of the aurora borealis is generally considered to be from mid-September to mid-April. However, even if you visit Iceland during the best time to see the Northern Lights, there is no guarantee that you will be able to see them as they are a naturally occurring phenomenon. You can book a Northern Lights tour package during the winter months for a better chance of spotting the aurora borealis.

The best period to visit Iceland to see the midnight sun is between May and July, during the peak of the summer. The best month to visit Iceland is June as June 21 is summer solstice, which is when the midnight sun is at its peak in Iceland.

So, as you can see, the best time for visiting Iceland’s ice caves is different from the best time to visit Iceland to enjoy some hiking trips and there’s a different best time to go to Iceland for witnessing Northern Lights.

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8 Reasons Why August Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland

Check out why August is the best time for travelers to visit Iceland and what travelers can do in the land of ice and fire.

Sarah Rand • Apr 25, 2024

Iceland is a European country that is well known for its stunning glaciers and volcanoes. The Nordic island nation is home to striking national parks, thriving wildlife, and an intriguing viking history. Its most visited and highest populated city is Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland . The country also has friendly locals and a diverse landscape. This landscape includes mountains, glaciers, volcanoes, rivers, and caves. The natural environment of Iceland has made it a favorite destination for snow sports, which has enticed travelers from near and far. Iceland is so popular that it attracts over two million travelers per year. 

Unfortunately, travelers do not always get a chance to see some of the country’s best attributes . Much like any other travel destination, there is an ideal time to visit. Depending on the time of year, some travelers may not see much of anything due to factors that can not be controlled. The best time to visit Iceland depends on many factors and even a traveler’s personal preferences. 

Overall, August is the best time to visit Iceland, during its high season. Although August is one of the most popular times to travel to Iceland, travelers can still avoid crowds if they choose to. Iceland is generally not considered overcrowded so a visit in August is still pleasant. Visiting the top attractions either earlier or later in the day usually resolves concerns about crowds.

There is plenty to see and do in Iceland during August, so travelers will not find themselves lacking a reason to visit. Check out what things make this month the best time to visit and what travelers should expect. 

Average Temperature This Time of Year

• The average temperature in Iceland during August is around 46-55 Degrees F

The Best Weather 

During August, the summer temperatures and fall foliage are present in Iceland. This mix brings mild temperatures and a cool breeze. Although temperatures in the 50s may seem low to some travelers, in Iceland the weather is quite warm. This month is a time that locals and visitors dress more warmly, so summer attire is still appropriate. Many travelers enjoy all kinds of outdoor activities during August thanks to favorable weather.

Travel Tips :

• Average Temperature This Time of Year: 46-55 Degrees Fahrenheit.
• River rafting, camping, sea kayaking, and hiking are among the most popular outdoor activities that travelers can enjoy. 
• Visiting a waterfall, hot spring, or a dramatic fjord is a great way to enjoy the vast natural beauty of Iceland, especially in August.

The Next Solar Eclipse

The Europe 2026 solar eclipse is expected to occur in August. The eclipse will happen on August 12th, 2026 to be exact. In ​​Reykjavik, Iceland the solar eclipse can be seen at 4:47 p.m. The early projection of the event means that travelers can plan their vacations well in advance. Along with the striking beauty of Iceland in August, travelers who visit in 2026 will be able to observe the first European total solar eclipse in 27 years. Seeing a solar event like this is a unique experience, which is why August is the best time to visit Iceland.

Travel Tip :

• The last European total eclipse was Aug. 11, 1999, so people will gather from far and wide to witness the next one. There are already cruises and tours centered around the event so travelers should secure their travel plans early.  

The Midnight Sun 

August is the peak of summer in Iceland and travelers can observe the midnight sun. It marks a period when Icelanders can expect a unique natural transition due to the country’s location. Earth’s circulation happens in an elliptical orbit and the planet’s axis is tilted away from and towards the sun for six-month periods. 

The beginning of August in Iceland has dark skies and technically long days. These long days mean that the sun is up for 24 hours. This phenomenon is intriguing but, rightfully, some locals celebrate when the midnight sun season is over. Since the sun is out significantly longer than people are used to, locals recover from the sleep they lost during the nearly all-day sunny skies. However, visitors appreciate the extended time to enjoy the August sun. Travelers can expect the midnight sun season to be reaching its end around late August when the nights are longer. 

• Seljalandsfoss Waterfall is one of the most ideal places to visit during the midnight sun season. After a nearly two-hour drive from Reykjavik, travelers can watch as the sun catches the waterfall cascading down. 

The Northern Lights

The aurora borealis is a famous feature of Iceland . It is even considered one of the country’s most cherished natural attractions. Travelers can sit in awe as the night sky illuminates with green, red, pink, purple, orange, and blue seemingly otherworldly lights. Generally, between late August and mid-April the Northern Lights can be viewed. Much of that visibility depends on the time of year and uncontrollable factors. Travelers visiting near the end of August are in luck since that is when tours start operating. They may be able to catch the first aurora borealis sightings of the season.

• Travelers determined to see the lights should visit in late August since the month is the start of viewing season. It is wise to book tours with experienced locals to reach the best viewing spots.  

Hiking is a very popular activity in Iceland, particularly in August. The summer months are the best time to enjoy outdoor activities, so it is no surprise that August is attractive for this reason. The weather conditions of August are ideal for safe hiking. It is also one of the least stormy months and with warmer temperatures, which makes the terrain drier. The non-slippery rocks and midnight sun make for maximum visibility and comfortability. The trails of Iceland are also open for hiking in August.  

• Travelers hiking in August should wear thermal clothing and waterproof hiking boots to make sure they are exploring as safely as possible. 
• One of the most popular places to hike in August is the Highlands, where the highest peak in Iceland can be found (Hvannadalshnukur Mountain in Vatnajokull National Park).

Puffin & Whale Watching Tours

Travelers who visit Iceland in August are in for a treat since there are dedicated puffin and whale tours. Combo sightseeing tours which provide great views to both creatures are available as well. Puffins are adorable, mild-mannered birds that live at sea but nest on rocky cliffs. They lay their eggs in early summer and are very active then so August is the best time to have this Icelandic experience. Tourists commonly spot humpback whales during visits in August but boat tours offer intimate viewings of the majestic creatures. Whale watchers will enjoy a visit during August since this is when they are the most lively. 

• Puffins are found exclusively in the North Atlantic Ocean, so Iceland is a top destination for viewing them apart from the very few other coastal areas. Travelers are encouraged to see puffins in Iceland since it is home to at least 60% of the world’s Atlantic puffins. 

The Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is one of the most popular tourist sites in Iceland. It is a geothermal lagoon with healing waters that are found nowhere else in the world. It is a resource for silica, algae, and minerals that are said to have restorative powers. The Blue Lagoon is open every day of the year and has many impressive features for visitors to enjoy. There is a retreat spa, and several restaurants and hotels on the grounds. Travelers from all over the world come to Iceland to experience the skin-nourishing seawater. Visiting during the midnight sun season may be the best time to visit Iceland since there is more visibility.

• Until around mid-August, the Blue Lagoon is open until midnight. The most popular time to visit is between 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. To avoid crowds travelers can visit during the early morning or late afternoon. 
• Entrance to the Blue Lagoon requires tickets that depend on daily availability. So travelers should get their tickets ahead of time. 

Merchant’s Weekend 

Merchant’s Weekend, or Verslunarmannahelgi (in Icelandic), is a popular event in Iceland. The weekend is near Commerce Day which is a public holiday in Iceland, celebrated by locals since 1894. It typically occurs during the first week of August and is comparable to Labor Day weekend which Canada and the United States observe. Many people choose to relax, go to festivals, or go camping during the weekend. This event and some others are during August so it is clear that this month is the best time to visit Iceland for activities.

• One of the most popular festivals to attend is the Þjóðhátíð í Eyjum (Festival of the Nation) in Vestmannaeyjar (the Westman Islands), which takes place on Aug. 24-25 this year. 

Overall, Iceland is a scenic and enjoyable place to visit. Travelers trying to optimize their time abroad should plan a trip to Iceland during August. They will experience some of the country’s best weather, awe-inspiring sights, and most exciting events. August is the best time to visit Iceland for many reasons but travelers should note that the country is truly incomparable during this time of year. 

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When's the Best Time of Year to Visit Iceland?

K nown as the land of fire and ice, Iceland beckons to adventure-seekers year-round. The best time of year to visit Iceland depends on your traveling style and the type of adventures you enjoy. For those in search of the northern lights, schedule your travel between September through April to maximize your chances of spotting this bucket list experience.

Although the coldest time of the year, winter months are ideal for exploring ice caves, warming your hands by bonfires, cultural and music festivals in Reykjavik and celebrating the magic of Christmas and New Year’s Eve.  

As spring arrives, migratory birds return including the always adorable puffins. Spring is also the perfect time for whale-watching tours. Of course, the summer months bring the midnight sun, summer solstice and sightseeing tourists from around the world. And the brief but beautiful autumn season yields a blanket of color and fewer tourists traveling the Golden Circle . Truthfully, the best time to travel to one of Europe’s most unusual destinations is really anytime!

Year-Round Iceland Experiences

As with many destinations, Iceland features several year-round experiences. Awe-inspiring waterfalls captivate tourists any time of year. Sure they may be partially frozen in winter months, but that’s just another type of beautiful! Hot springs and geothermal pools bubble year-round from the Blue Lagoon  to remote hot springs found throughout the Icelandic landscape.

Outdoor activities can be enjoyed in any season. The famed Icelandic horses are available year-round for horse riding adventures. And hikers also have plenty of year-round options. No matter when you visit Iceland, you can count on the Iceland weather to deliver a variety of experiences from sunny days to whipping winds to rain and back to sunny days. It’s unpredictable and packing layers is the key to managing whatever comes your way.

Road trips provide another year-round adventure option. Even in winter weather, driving the Golden Circle is possible. The Ring Road through the south coast of Iceland is also an option. But for those hoping to road trip through the entire country on the Ring Road, winter months can present some challenges due to potential road closures on mountain roads in Iceland’s more arctic regions. So if traveling the full distance of the Ring Road is on your bucket list, save that for the shoulder season or an Icelandic summer.

Iceland’s Peak Season

There’s no question that the months of June through August are Iceland’s peak season. During this popular time, you’ll be bumper-to-bumper with other tourists on road trips along the Golden Circle and other popular destinations. Of course, the summer months typically bring more sunny days. And, the midnight sun arrives for the summer solstice in June.

The advantages of traveling to Iceland during the peak tourist season include more hours of daylight which means more time for hikers to hit the trails along with more time for horse riding. In Iceland’s westfjords, you can enjoy all the benefits of traveling to Iceland in the summer months with fewer tourists as most focus their travel time on the Golden Circle and the south coast.

Also, as mentioned previously, summer months are best for a full road trip along the Ring Road as mountain roads are open and ready for exploration.

Visiting Iceland in the Winter Months

Despite its arctic reputation, Iceland’s winters are relatively mild. Temperatures average around 32 degrees. Of course, weather conditions in Iceland change continuously and the same is true for winter months. Winds can be strong and winter storms with snow and ice are possible. Hours of daylight shrink in the winter months to as low as four hours per day. But once winter solstice comes, daylight extends by a few minutes each day.

One big advantage of visiting in the winter months is the possibility of seeing the aurora borealis. Although the northern lights  can be seen from September through April, the darker days of winter provide more opportunities for you to experience this natural phenomenon.

The winter months also bring cultural events – especially in Reykjavik. Here you’ll have the opportunity to participate in the Reykjavik International Games and the Dark Music Days Music Festival. Also, during the old Norse month of Þorri, which runs from mid-January to mid-February, Icelanders toast to the old gods with a mid-winter feast known as Þorrablót.

If an ice cave tour falls on your list of adventure priorities, the winter months might be the best time to visit Iceland. However, as long as the ice caves haven’t melted, you can still squeeze this in through April.

Frozen waterfalls, magical Christmas villages and New Year’s Eve bonfires add to the lure of a winter visit to Iceland.

Shoulder Season in Iceland

There’s something to be said for visiting Iceland in shoulder season. Fewer tourists, lower costs and those year-round adventures noted previously all add to the appeal of an off-season trip. And, as luck would have it, Iceland has two shoulder seasons – spring and autumn.

As winter fades away, those choosing to visit Iceland in April are treated to the last days of the northern lights season. From April to May, migratory birds make their way to Iceland for nesting season. If seeing puffins ranks high on your list, this may be the best time to visit Iceland. Spring also kicks off whale-watching season as humpback, minke, orcas and even blue whales migrate north for the summer months. Book a whale-watching tour  and take in this wildlife wonder.

A visit to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula during the off-season means outdoor activities with fewer tourists. Glacier hiking is also possible in the shoulder season.

For that second shoulder season from September through October, the fall colors blanket the mossy landscape. Hikers can add berry picking to their experiences and the northern lights begin to dance across the skies again!

There’s so much wonder to Iceland with its fire and ice landscape and stunning natural beauty that no matter when you choose to visit Iceland, it’s a trip you’ll never forget. Of course, you can always return to check out another season. The Icelandic treasures will be waiting for you!

$699—Northern lights & Golden Circle w/flights

Visit the Land of Fire and Ice with this package that includes two tours and roundtrip transfers.

Why We Love This Deal

Experience the overwhelming beauty of Iceland this fall or winter, which is the best time to hunt for the northern lights. You'll also tour the famed Golden Circle, where you'll s ee Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir Hot Spring Area and the tectonic rift at Thingvellir National Park. You'll learn about the history and geology of each grandiose site, as well as how Iceland's geothermal waters are being used to produce sustainable energy.

This wallet-friendly getaway saves up to $281 per person, compared to packaging it together yourself.

What's included:

• Roundtrip economy-class airfare to Reykjavík on a full-service airline
• 3 nights in Hótel Múli in Reykjavík 
• Daily breakfast
• Northern lights tour
• Golden Circle tour 
• Roundtrip airport transfers

Per-person pricing from:

• $699 …  Boston
• $799 … New York City
• $849 … Baltimore ; Washington, D.C.
• $899 … Chicago
• $999 … Denver , Minneapolis ,  Raleigh

When to go:  Depart on select dates in November 2024 - February 2025. Travel in October or March from +$100 per person.

Customize your trip:   Upgrade your hotel to the 4-star  Midgardur by Center Hotels from +$100 per person.  You can also extend your stay to 4-7 nights. 

Alternate itinerary:  Book an alternative Iceland package that includes a northern lights tour, Pure Pass admission to the Sky Lagoon, as well as a South Shore adventure tour, from +$899 per person.

Travelzoo Tip:   There is no change fee with the purchase of Great Value Vacations'  travel protection plans .

Book by May 3.

When You Can Go

November 2024 - February 2025

$281 vs. DIY pricing

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Best time to visit Iceland

The best time to visit Iceland is between September and March to see the Northern Lights, or between June and August for summer activities. While travel to Iceland may depend on your desired itinerary, generally, the best time to visit is during the summer. During this time, you’ll experience warmer temperatures and long days of sunlight, known as the spectacular midnight sun. While the summer boasts green countryside and animal spotting, the winter is the best time for the Northern lights and the country’s famous geothermal spas when they may not be as busy!

However, if you’re planning a trip to see something specific, such as the puffin or whale migrations, you’ll need to visit during a specific time of year. We've broken down some main factors to consider before choosing when to travel to Iceland.

The phenomenal cosmic light show, known as the aurora borealis or the northern lights, is a natural event that occurs from late September to late March. The long and dark winter nights make it an ideal time to visit, however, because it is a sporadic event, a definite sighting can't always be guaranteed. You may be more likely to see the lights during the equinoxes that occur around the 21st/22nd of March and September.

Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon is a year-round natural geothermal pool that is said to have healing properties and is situated among a scenic Icelandic landscape. This mineral-rich seawater contains a mix of silica, algae and other bioactive elements that can be particularly beneficial for certain skin conditions.

While the lagoon is open all year, if you’re hoping to visit with slightly warmer weather, you may want to visit in the summer months (May to August). That said, many travellers love to visit the springs in the winter months to be surrounded by the beautiful snowy hills of the region while they relax in the outdoor lagoon.

The Icelandic coastline is famous for its whale activity due to the cold waters and favoured feeding grounds of the local marine life. Between April to September is the best time to visit Iceland for whale watching as this is when the whales migrate north for the summer months. Keep a look out for humpback, minke, fin, sperm or even blue whales! You might even see other marine species such as orcas, dolphins, seals or harbour porpoises.

Best for: Þorrablót Mid-winter Festival and ice caves

While mid-winter weather and short days may deter some travellers, the colder months are also perfect for ice cave exploration and catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights. However, if you’d like to stay out of the weather, why not partake in the honouring of the Icelandic ancestors during the Thorrablot festival? While visiting in January, join locals on a historical Icelandic food tour that includes foods such as hangikjot (flavoured smoked lamb) or brennivin (a local distilled beverage).

Best for: Winter Lights Festival and Northern Lights

February is one of the best times to visit Iceland for some exciting food and cultural events. The two festivals, Winter Lights and Food & Fun are hosted annually by the capital Reykjavik and can add spark some joy in the coldest and wettest months of the year! But keep a watchful eye out for the Northern Lights.

Best for: Northern Lights, winter sports, Iceland Winter Games and the Annual Beer Festival

The longer and brighter winter days of March make it an advantageous time for winter sports. If you’re looking to downhill or cross-country ski, snowboard, snowshoe or hike the terrain, the nearest mountain is only a 20-minute drive away from Reykjavik.

Best for: puffins and golden plover migration, The Golden Circle  and smaller crowds

April marks the start of the spring season in Iceland and the breathtaking return of several local bird species, including the world-renowned puffins and golden plovers. While the locals celebrate the first day of summer shortly after April 18th, this month is a perfect time to visit for lower off-season prices and fewer tourists. Remember that there may still be an assortment of rain, snow, hail or shine, so pack accordingly.

Best for: whale watching, nature adventures and long days

May in Iceland sees the end of the cold winter months, however, temperatures still sit between 1-11 degrees Celsius although there is less chance of snow. Towards the end of May, there can be up to 20 daylight hours which makes it a great time to do some fun outdoor adventures. Why not take a tour through the lava caves, hike your way across a glacier, snorkel or scuba dive in Icelan's pristine waters or even horseback ride along the countryside?

Best for: midnight sun, Hafnarfjörður Viking Festival, National Holiday of Iceland, Fisherman’s Day and the opening of some highland roads

Summer has arrived! With summer comes longer days and the peak travel season so prices are higher and attractions are busier. June is one of the best times to explore the natural wonders of the Icelandic countryside. However, with a great array of cultural, music and environmental festivals, there’s something for every interest. The end of May to the start of June is also the best time to see the famed midnight sun phenomenon in Iceland so make sure you bring a good sleeping mask!

Best for:   Braðslan, nature photography and long days

July is the busiest tourist month of the year for Iceland. With sunshine, greenery and longer days, it’s a perfect time to engage in the bustling city life or explore the vibrant natural scenery. If you’re looking for a slightly less crowded time, try to book in for the start of the month before the local schools are on break.

Best for: Reykjavik Pride, Reykjavik Culture Night, National Festival, Verslunarmannahelgi, Þjóðhátíð and wilderness exploration

Visiting Iceland in August usually ensures full access to the country’s wilderness as inaccessible areas in winter are now fully open. As one of the hottest months, the weather in August - while still unpredictable at times – is best for exploring the rugged and idyllic terrain of the glaciers, volcanoes, hot springs and waterfalls of the Icelandic wild. If nature isn’t your thing, the local scene has plenty of events and attractions to fill your itinerary.

Best for: fewer crowds and mild weather

September marks the end of the busy summer months but temperatures can still fall between 5-10 degrees Celsius. With the bulk of tourists on their way home, you’ll find lower prices and smaller lines for attractions. This is a great time to go if you’re looking to surround yourself with great music or film. Note that some highland roads will be closed by the end of the month for winter.

Best for: Northern Lights and berry picking

See the vibrant autumnal colours that blanket Iceland during October as the temperatures lower and leaves drop. As the colder months set in, plan for the Northern Lights as they can easily be seen at this time of year, especially when away from city areas without cloud cover.

Best for: hot springs, ice caves and Northern Lights

November brings winter into full steam with a drop in temperatures and daylight hours. Winter is often the most scenic time to visit one of Iceland’s many hot springs and relax in the white-blanketed scenery. With the drop in temperatures comes the reformation of the ice caves making November a perfect time to transverse the chilly blue caves and stunning glaciers.

Best for: New Year’s Eve, frozen waterfalls, glacier exploration, Christmas villages and festive lights

Looking to party into the new year? Iceland’s eclectic music scene and picture-perfect Christmas villages can provide you with day-to-night entertainment. While December is known as one of the coldest and windiest months, the Northern Lights are often viewable during this time. Just note that some hotels, services and attractions are closed during the winter.

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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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Tags: Travel , Vacation Ideas

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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