Iceland is an incredible natural paradise all year round, with steaming geothermal lagoons, towering waterfalls, icy glaciers and fiery volcanoes dotted across the island. However, there are certain natural wonders you can only experience in-person at certain times of year, such as the famous Northern Lights, Midnight Sun and even some of Iceland’s impressive ice caves.
If you’re wondering ‘when is the best time to go to Iceland?’, you’re in the right place. We’ll guide you through what you can expect for your Iceland vacation during each season, so you can get a better idea of what the best time of year to travel to Iceland is for you – let’s go!
When is the Best Time to Travel to Iceland?
The best month to visit Iceland really depends on what you’d like to do during your time on this magical island. For example, if you’re determined to see the Northern Lights, you’ll be best planning a winter Iceland vacation, but if your dream is to experience the Midnight Sun, a summer Iceland vacation will be the best option for you.
Each season has its own benefits and wonderful experiences to offer. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect when visiting Iceland in winter, spring, summer and fall, so you can choose the best time to travel to Iceland for you.
Visiting Iceland in Winter: December, January and February
Iceland in winter can only be described as a true winter wonderland! With incredible ice caves, sprawling glaciers and frozen waterfalls, the snow-covered landscapes of Iceland look just like a Christmas card during the winter season.
Winter is, without a doubt, the best time to travel to Iceland for the Northern Lights. A firm bucket-list favorite, this spectacular dancing light show is one not to be missed. You can take a guided Northern Lights tour or go aurora hunting by yourself during your Iceland winter vacation – don’t forget to check the Iceland Aurora Forecast for the best chance to spot these incredible lights.
If you’re looking for the best time to travel to Reykjavik, Iceland to experience an authentic and fun taste of Icelandic culture, we can definitely recommend December as the perfect month to take part in Reykjavik’s famous Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Although winter is the best time to see the Northern Lights, this does come with the downside of shorter daylight hours, giving you less time to explore Iceland’s incredible landscapes during the day. The days reach their shortest around the winter equinox in December, when the sun shines for just five hours a day. You can easily plan a fulfilling Iceland vacation during winter, though, as long as you plan ahead so you can fit all your must-do activities into your itinerary.
Be aware, also, that the mountainous F-roads leading to the Icelandic Highlands in the interior of the island are closed during winter. But, don’t worry – the main roads, including the Icelandic Ring Road, are open all winter. We recommend checking up-to-date Iceland road conditions and closures before heading out on your day trip.
Visiting Iceland in Spring: March, April and May
With rising temperatures, blossoming nature and longer days (without the summer crowds), the months of spring are, arguably, some of the best months to visit Iceland. You’ve still got a fairly good chance of witnessing the Northern Lights during March and April in Iceland, as well as the opportunity to go whale watching during April and May.
Towards the end of spring in May is perhaps the best time to travel to Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon, as the weather is still warm enough to take a comfortable dip in this incredible geothermal lagoon, but the summer crowds have not yet arrived on the island. This shoulder season also means prices will generally be lower, making spring the best time to visit Iceland for many travelers.
As the snow begins to melt, road conditions are generally good in Iceland during springtime. You’ll still be able to go skiing in Iceland in spring, as well as exploring the beautiful, green mountains, cascading waterfalls and volcanic beaches across the country. Just be aware that spring is a relatively short season in Iceland, as March can still be a little chilly and May is already heading into Iceland’s summer.
Visiting Iceland in Summer: June, July and August
If you’re wondering when to visit Iceland to experience the Land of Ice and Fire at its warmest, with the most opportunity to spend your days outdoors exploring the beautiful scenery and perhaps hiking in the majestic mountains, summer is definitely the best time to visit Iceland for you.
With amazing opportunities for whale and bird watching, visiting Iceland in summer is the perfect vacation for wildlife lovers. Intrepid adventurers will also love traveling to Iceland during the summer months, as the extremely long daylight hours give you ample time to explore the breathtaking natural wonders all across the island.
The highlight of Iceland in summer has to be the amazing Midnight Sun, which you can experience during your own adventure or on a guided tour, many of which take you to the top of a mountain. When else will you ever see the sun blazing across the sky at the hour of midnight? This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle not to miss! If you visit Iceland in July, during the peak of summer, you’ll have the best chance to witness the incredible Midnight Sun for yourself.
One important thing to be aware of when considering when to travel to Iceland is that summer is peak tourist season in Iceland, meaning attractions will generally be busier and prices will most likely be higher, too. You can make sure to get the most bang for your buck by booking ahead of time as much as possible.
Visiting Iceland in Fall: September, October and November
For those travelers on a budget but still wanting to experience the stunning landscapes of Iceland, fall is a great month to visit this Nordic nation. During this shoulder season, prices for accommodation, activities and travel are generally much less than the busy summer months and you’ll be able to enjoy Iceland without the crowds.
September is a great off-peak month to visit Iceland for mild weather and a good chance to see Iceland's famous puffins at the beginning of the month, plus whales and dolphins, too. You’ll also be able to see the Northern Lights on dark, clear nights in September.
Visiting Iceland in October will give you an even better chance to spot the Northern Lights, but also enough daylight hours to enjoy some outdoor adventuring during your vacation. In November, the weather can get chilly, so definitely wrap up warm and you’ll be all set to explore the amazing, icy landscapes of Iceland!
Plan Your Own Unique Iceland Adventure
Whatever time of year you visit, you’re bound to be awe-struck by the incredible landscapes of Iceland. However, we hope you’ve now got more of an idea about the best time of year to go to Iceland for you and your party.
Ready to start planning your own Iceland vacation? Looking through accommodation and travel options is a good place to start. Then, you can begin putting together your ideal Iceland itinerary – exciting! We’re happy to help you with finding the best guided tours in Iceland to enjoy during your vacation. Happy traveling!
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