The Best Time to Visit Iceland: A Season-by-Season Guide

Hjálparfoss waterfall in summer, winter, autumn, and spring

Iceland is a land of contrasts, where each season brings unique experiences, landscapes, and challenges. While summer is undoubtedly the most popular time to visit, each season has its own charm and advantages. Whether you’re seeking adventure, photography opportunities, or simply a peaceful escape, knowing what to expect in each season is key to making the most of your Icelandic journey.

There are many interesting options available to take advantage of the 24 hour sunlight in summer in Iceland

Summer in Iceland: The Prime Time for Travel

Why Summer is the Best Time to Visit

Summer in Iceland, from early June to late August, is by far the most favorable season for exploring the country. It offers long days filled with sunlight, accessible roads, and open Highland routes, making it the ideal time for road trips, hiking, and camping. Icelanders have traditionally traveled the country during summer, long before international tourism took off, enjoying the warmest weather and the vibrant natural beauty.

Weather Conditions

Despite its northern location, Iceland’s summer temperatures are mild, typically ranging from 6°C to 18°C (42°F to 60°F). While the weather can be unpredictable, with occasional wind and rain, precipitation levels remain relatively low, between 6mm and 10mm. This means that most outdoor activities are enjoyable, even if you occasionally need to wear a rain jacket.

Road Conditions & Accessibility

One of the best things about summer is the ease of travel. Nearly all roads, including those leading into the remote Highland, are open and well-maintained. Whether you want to explore the Ring Road, venture into the Westfjords, or visit the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, driving conditions are at their best. Even Iceland’s highland roads (F-roads), which provide access to stunning landscapes like Landmannalaugar and Askja, are only open during summer.

Iceland is the perfect country to travel in a rent a car on your own

The Magic of the Midnight Sun

Iceland experiences 24-hour daylight in summer, with the sun barely dipping below the horizon. This phenomenon, known as the Midnight Sun, allows for long days of exploration and some of the most stunning lighting conditions for photography.

Activities & Attractions

One advantage is to take long hikes to spectacular places

• Hiking in the Highlands (Landmannalaugar, Laugavegur Trail, Þórsmörk)

• Whale watching and puffin spotting along the coast

• Road-tripping around the Ring Road or the Golden Circle

• Exploring glaciers, waterfalls, and geysers

• Experiencing Reykjavík’s vibrant nightlife under bright summer skies

One option during summer is to visit the many interesting places in the Highland

Accommodation Considerations

Summer is the busiest season, and accommodations book up quickly. Hotels, guesthouses, and rental properties are often fully reserved by March or April, and prices are at their peak. If you want to avoid high costs, camping is an excellent alternative. Almost every town and village in Iceland has a well-maintained campsite, often with access to geothermal swimming pools.

The small village of Fáskrúðsfjörður is an example of a great place to accommodate when driving the Ring Road 

Autumn in Iceland: The Photographer’s Paradise

Autumn in Iceland is especially interesting for photographers

Why Visit in Autumn?

Autumn (September to mid-November) is an underrated but spectacular season in Iceland. As the tourist crowds begin to dwindle, the landscape transforms with stunning autumnal colors, and the Northern Lights begin to make their return.

The changes in sunlight during autumn is often a great addition to the tour

Weather & Road Conditions

Autumn in Iceland is a great season for photograpers

Temperatures in autumn range from 1°C to 9°C (34°F to 48°F), with increased chances of snow, particularly in late October and November. While most main roads remain open, Highland roads begin to close, making access to certain remote areas more difficult. Rainfall is slightly higher than in summer, ranging from 9mm to 16mm, and roads at higher altitudes can become slippery.

Best Activities in Autumn

Early snow in the Highland is often a great addition to the landscape in autumn

• Photographing stunning autumn landscapes with long golden hours

• Enjoying the serenity of popular sites without the summer crowds

• Witnessing the Northern Lights in September and October

• Exploring the Highland before winter closures (early autumn only)

September is the time when the Northern Lights start to kick in

Accommodation & Costs

Autumn offers lower accommodation prices than summer, but camping becomes less viable as temperatures drop. Staying in guesthouses or hotels is recommended.

In autumn the selection and prices are often better than in summer

Winter in Iceland: A Season of Ice & Northern Lights

Winter by Skógafoss waterfall (frozen) in Iceland

Challenges & Rewards of Winter Travel

Winter in Iceland (mid-November to February) presents both breathtaking beauty and significant challenges. Snow-covered landscapes, frozen waterfalls, and the Aurora Borealis make it a magical time to visit, but harsh weather conditions and limited daylight require careful planning.

Driving in winter in Iceland can be difficult

Weather & Driving Conditions

Winter temperatures range from -3°C to 7°C (26°F to 42°F), but wind and snowstorms can make it feel much colder. Roads, especially outside of cities, can be icy and difficult to navigate. Many Highland and secondary roads are completely closed, making a 4x4 rental or guided tour essential for safe travel.

Winter is a great time to see the Norhern Lights in Iceland

Top Winter Experiences

• Chasing the Northern Lights in dark, remote locations

• Exploring ice caves in Vatnajökull National Park

• Visiting frozen waterfalls like Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, and Skógafoss

• Experiencing Reykjavík’s famous New Year’s Eve fireworks

New Year's Eve in Reykjavík Iceland

Accommodation & Costs

Winter is considered the low season, and accommodation prices drop accordingly. However, many rural hotels and services close, so booking in advance is still recommended. Camping is not an option unless at designated winter campsites.

Spring in Iceland: The Least Exciting Season?

Gullfoss waterfall in spring

Why Spring Can Be Challenging

Spring (March to May) is often considered the least appealing time to visit Iceland. The landscape is in transition—snow is melting, but the grass is still brown, and many mountain roads remain closed.

Driving in spring in Iceland, roads and conditions

Weather & Accessibility

Temperatures range from -3°C in March to 12°C in May (26°F to 53°F). While days are getting longer, the landscape remains dull, and muddy roads can make driving difficult. The Highland remains inaccessible, and snow can still cover popular hiking areas.

Veggitation is a bit brown and yellow in the spring

Best Activities in Spring

• Visiting geothermal pools and hot springs

• Exploring Reykjavík and museums

• Driving the Golden Circle or Snæfellsnes Peninsula, which are accessible year-roundduring summer.

Svínafellsjökull glacier tongue is stunning in every season

Accommodation & Costs

Spring offers some of the cheapest accommodation options, and roads are less crowded than in summer. However, the trade-off is a less visually appealing landscape compared to other seasons.

The shoreline is interesting during spring in every region in Iceland

Choosing the Best Season for Your Iceland Trip

Bjarnarfoss waterfall at Snæfellsnes Peninsula in spring time

When planning your Iceland trip, it’s essential to consider what you want to experience:

• For first-time visitors: Summer is the best choice for accessibility and the most diverse range of activities.

• For photographers & solitude-seekers: Autumn provides stunning lighting, fewer tourists, and the first glimpses of the Northern Lights.

• For adventure lovers: Winter offers dramatic landscapes, ice caves, and the best chance to see the Northern Lights.

• For budget travelers: Spring has the lowest accommodation prices, but natural beauty is less impressive.

Whatever season you choose, Iceland’s landscapes, culture, and natural wonders will leave a lasting impression. Just plan accordingly, book in advance if necessary, and embrace the ever-changing weather for an unforgettable experience!

Ring Road Drive in Iceland