Best Time Of Year To Visit Iceland: A Season-by-Season Guide

Iceland is a group of adjacent islands and islets located in the North Atlantic. Although volcanically active, its interior contains a plateau with mountains and glacial rivers flowing into the sea through the lowlands. Due to the effects of the Gulf Stream and its geographical location, it has a temperate climate. However, many tourists visit the island throughout the year.

In this article, we guide you through the best time of year to visit Iceland. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover a new destination; pack your bags now!

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Summer in Iceland (June to August)

In Iceland, there are only two seasons: summer and winter. The summer season comprises June, July, and August. The daily temperature is between 9 °C and 15 °C, a perfect climate for hiking and exploring the country. The sun stays out most of the day, between 20 and 21 hours of daylight. So you’ll have plenty of time to plan your adventures. Buy your Iceland Tours pack and secure your accommodation, transportation, and a perfect itinerary.

What to pack for Iceland in the Summer? Iceland’s summer season (June, July, and August) is perfect for outdoor activities but be sure to include these basics in your packing list. Essential items include comfortable clothing (such as pants, breathable T-shirts, and a waterproof coat in case it rains), waterproof gear, and sturdy hiking shoes. Pack layers for changing weather and a swimsuit for the hot springs. A good camera is a must for taking the best photos of Iceland’s landscapes. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection. If you plan on camping or hiking, a sleeping bag and a travel adapter for electronics.

Summer may be the best time of year to visit Iceland and discover its wonders. For example, you can enjoy exciting places like the Landmannalaugar pools and the remote Westfjords region. You can also decide on other popular locations such as the Golden Circle, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and Diamond Beach. Relax while taking a dip in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon or the hot springs of Hvammsvik.

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Fall in Iceland (September to November)

The fall season occurs from September to November when the weather cools down and the temperature ranges between -1 °C  and 10 °C. Also, there is a big change in the length of the day because the sunshine time is reduced from 14 hours at the beginning of September to 5 hours at the end of November.

What to pack for Iceland in the fall? Layering is key during autumn (September, October, and November). Your packing list should include waterproof pants, an insulated jacket, gloves, scarves, sturdy hiking shoes, and warm clothing.

If you plan to explore glaciers, include a warm base layer, fleece, or wool sweater. A swimsuit is also recommended for geothermal pools like the Blue Lagoon. With fewer daylight hours, be sure to have a headlamp or flashlight if you plan on hiking in the evening. Although at this stage you will have less time for daytime activities, there are many other things you cannot miss. At Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in eastern Iceland, you can go on glacier tours, hike on the ice surface, climb, or take a snowmobile tour.

Another amazing activity in autumn is watching the Northern Lights. However, they are only visible on a very dark night, and at this stage, you will have a few chances. Head to a place free of artificial light and wait to see this wonder.

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Winter in Iceland (December to February)

Winter in Iceland is from December to February. During this season the temperature varies between -3 °C and 3 °C, and daylight duration is around 4 to 5 hours. If you want to see the Aurora Borealis, December is the darkest month and the best time of year to go to Iceland for that purpose.

What to pack for Iceland in the winter? Iceland’s winter season (December, January, and February) is a harsh season. In your packing list, you should pack thermal and woolen layers, waterproof and windproof outerwear, gloves, hats, scarves, and sturdy boots.

Remember that daylight is limited, so bring a headlamp if you plan on exploring after dark. This way you will be ready to enjoy all winter activities. The roads are icy, so it is not recommended to drive, instead, choose guided tours and have an experienced driver take you to the most important places. For summer trips to Iceland, pack for varied weather.

Bring waterproof clothing, including a jacket and pants, as rain is common. Layered clothing is essential, with breathable T-shirts and warm layers for cooler days. Comfortable hiking shoes are a must for exploring and don’t forget a swimsuit for the geothermal pools. A hat and sunglasses will help on sunny days, while a small backpack for day trips is handy.

Always be prepared for sudden weather changes with extra socks and gloves. With long daylight hours, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy Iceland’s outdoor adventures.

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Spring in Iceland (March to May)

Spring is one of the most awaited seasons in Iceland because the ice begins to dissolve and the mountains are covered with a bright green color that highlights the beauty of its forests. Temperatures vary from -2°C at the beginning of March to 10°C at the end of May, although there is a low chance of snowfall. Therefore, wear appropriate clothing that will work in any weather and dress in layers.

Depending on your location, spring can be wetter or drier. Iceland turns into a unique landscape with flowers blooming, skies clearing, and migratory birds returning to the country. This is a low season for tourists, so you will have no problem finding accommodation, and good prices and you can visit anywhere without crowds.

What to pack for Iceland in the spring? Spring in Iceland (March, April, and May) can bring varied weather, so it’s essential to pack accordingly. Layers are key: a waterproof jacket, warm fleece, and breathable clothing for outdoor activities. ** Comfy hiking boots ** and ** thermal socks ** are a must, along with ** gloves, a hat, and a scarf ** for colder days. A waterproof backpack is a good idea to protect your gear, as rain and snow are possible.

Bring sunglasses and sunscreen to protect your eyes from reflective snow and UV exposure. Because there may still be snowfall, some roads remain closed as a precaution. Therefore, not all tourist sites are accessible but there are other activities and impressive places to visit. Daylight lasts between 16 and 20 hours, so plan your favorite activities and take advantage of the length of the day.

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How to Budget for Your Iceland Adventure?

Coordinate your trip according to your budget and choose the best time of year to visit Iceland.

• Basic (ISK 14,500 or USD 104 per day): You can stay in hostel dorms, cook most of your food, and buy some cheap fast food. Limit alcoholic drinks and use public transportation to get around.

• Medium (ISK 27,000 or USD 194 per day**)**: You can stay in a private Airbnb, and eat fast food and some traditional food. Share a rental car to get around and do more paid activities such as a puffin watching or whale watching excursion.

• Luxury (ISK 36,000 or USD 259 per day): you can stay in a budget hotel, eat in some restaurants, have a few drinks, rent your car, and do more expensive excursions such as glacier visits or scuba diving.

In Iceland almost all products are imported, taxes are high and there is not much local industry. However, there are many ways to save money thanks to all the free outdoor activities you can do. Here are some ways to reduce your expenses:

• Hitchhiking
• Camping
• Cut down on alcoholic beverages
• Cook your food
• Stay in local homes

Best Time To Visit Iceland for Specific Activities

Winter (December to February)

• Guided jeep tour to the natural ice cave of the Vatnajökull glacier. Marvel at the ice formations of a cave inside Europe’s largest glacier.

• Expedition on the Langjökull Glacier, including a snowmobile ride and exploring an ice cave.

• Aurora Borealis viewing excursion from Reykjavík.

Spring (March to May)

• Full-day tour of southern Iceland’s coastline from Reykjavík.
• Visit to Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls.
• Exploration of the Sólheimajökull glacier ridge.
• Visit Reynisfjara basalt cliffs and the village near Mýrdalsjökull glacier.

Summer (June to August)

• Bus tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle, including Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall, Kerið Volcano, and Þingvellir National Park.
• Admission to Sky Lagoon, a geothermal spa by the ocean.
• Snorkeling at Silfra Fissure, one of the best dive sites in the world. Dive between tectonic plates with clear waters.

Fall (September to November)

• Whale watching and marine animal excursion from Reykjavik Port.
• Visit the Blue Lagoon for the unique geothermal water experience of the Blue Milky Sea. Bathe and apply silica mud to your skin.
• Explore the Raufarhólshellir subway lava tube, one of the longest lava tubes in Iceland. It was created by the powerful force of a volcanic eruption more than 5,000 years ago.

Important Documents and Visas for Iceland

If you are a citizen of a member country of the European Union, you will not need to obtain a visa before traveling to Iceland. You can enter and stay in the country for up to 90 days without a visa. Travelers from non-EU countries should check the relevant visa requirements. You may need to apply for a tourist visa before traveling to Iceland, depending on your nationality and length of stay. To do so, you must present the following documents to the Icelandic authorities:

• Application Form properly filled out.
• A passport-size photograph (35x45mm).
• Valid passport.
• Proof of financial sufficiency.
• Evidence of the traveler’s relationship with his/her country of origin.
• Medical insurance covering up to 30.000 €.
• Documents proving the purpose of the trip, such as accommodation reservations, itineraries of visits, and round-trip flights.

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