When to Visit Iceland: Weather, Northern Lights & More

Planning a trip to Iceland? You’re in for a spectacular adventure—think volcanic landscapes, geothermal hot springs, majestic waterfalls, and the ever-enchanting Northern Lights. But with such diverse offerings year-round, the real question is: when is the Best Time to Visit Iceland? This guide breaks it down by weather, daylight, seasonal highlights, and more to help you plan the perfect Icelandic getaway.

Understanding Iceland’s Seasons

Spring (April to May)

Spring in Iceland is a time of renewal. Snow starts melting, rivers swell with glacial runoff, and the landscape transforms into a vibrant palette of green. Temperatures range from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F), and while the weather can be unpredictable, you’ll enjoy fewer tourists and lower prices.

Spring also marks the return of migratory birds, including puffins along the coast. It’s a shoulder season, so while some highland roads remain closed, most major attractions are accessible, and daylight increases rapidly as summer approaches.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the high season—and for good reason. With nearly 24 hours of daylight thanks to the Midnight Sun, you have endless time to explore. Temperatures hover between 10°C and 15°C (50°F to 59°F), though warm days can occasionally reach above 20°C (68°F).

Summer is the Best Time to Visit Iceland for hiking, camping, and road-tripping the entire Ring Road. The Highlands open up, allowing access to remote interior landscapes like Landmannalaugar. Festivals like Reykjavik’s Secret Solstice also draw international crowds.

Autumn (September to October)

Fall offers a dramatic display of color as moss, lava fields, and foliage turn gold, red, and amber. This shoulder season is another contender for the Best Time to Visit Iceland if you’re seeking beauty without the summer crowds.

Temperatures begin to dip, ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F), and daylight hours shrink. However, it’s also the beginning of Northern Lights season, making it ideal for travelers hoping to catch the auroras without enduring the bitter winter.

Winter (November to March)

If your dream is to witness the Northern Lights or explore glittering ice caves, winter is the Best Time to Visit Iceland for you. While snowstorms and wind can disrupt travel plans, the beauty of frozen waterfalls, black sand beaches dusted with snow, and the cozy vibe of Reykjavik more than make up for it.

Daylight can be limited to just 4–6 hours, especially in December and January. But with temperatures averaging around -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F) along the coast, Iceland is milder in winter than many expect—thanks to the Gulf Stream.

Chasing the Northern Lights

When Can You See the Northern Lights in Iceland?

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are a bucket-list experience. The season runs from late September to early April, but visibility depends on clear, dark skies and solar activity.

Best Months for Aurora Viewing

• September to November: Moderate aurora activity with mild weather.

• December to February: Peak Northern Lights season, though weather can be harsh.

• March to April: Increasing daylight, but still good chances of sightings.

To maximize your chances, stay in remote areas like Vik, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, or even the Westfjords, where light pollution is minimal. Booking a guided tour with aurora tracking technology can also improve your odds.

Activities by Season

Summer Adventures

• Whale watching in Husavik

• Hiking in the Highlands

• Puffin spotting on coastal cliffs

• F-Road driving for rugged landscapes

Winter Wonders

• Northern Lights hunting

• Glacier hikes and ice cave tours

• Relaxing in geothermal spas like the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon

• Snowmobiling and dog sledding

Shoulder Season Highlights

• Photography tours during golden hour

• Fewer crowds at major attractions

• Aurora chasing with better travel conditions than deep winter

Monthly Breakdown

Budget Considerations

Peak vs. Off-Peak Travel

• High Season (June–August): Expect higher prices on flights, hotels, and car rentals.

• Low Season (November–March): More affordable, but less predictable travel conditions.

• Shoulder Seasons (April–May, September–October): Sweet spot for moderate prices and good experiences.

Planning your trip during a shoulder season might offer the Best Time to Visit Iceland if you're balancing cost, weather, and crowd levels.

Conclusion: So, When is the Best Time to Visit Iceland?

The truth is—there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The Best Time to Visit Iceland depends entirely on what you’re hoping to see and do:

• For endless daylight and hiking: Choose summer (June–August)

• For the Northern Lights and winter magic: Go between November and March

• For fewer tourists and varied scenery: Try spring or fall

Whether you’re photographing waterfalls under the Midnight Sun or marveling at the aurora dancing across a winter sky, Iceland has something unforgettable to offer every month of the year. Just remember to pack layers, keep your plans flexible, and embrace the unpredictable nature of this beautiful, wild island.