Best time to visit Iceland | Intrepid Travel (2024)

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.

Learn more about the Northern Lights

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 travelers 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.

Best for: Þorrablót Mid-winter Festival andice caves

While mid-winter weather and short days may deter some travelers, 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 notpartake in the honoring 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 (flavored smoked lamb) or brennivin (a local distilled beverage).

Best for: Winter Lights Festival andNorthern 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 Circleandsmaller 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 32-50,°F 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 funoutdoor adventures. Why not take a tour through thelava caves, hike your way across a glacier, snorkelor scuba dive in Icelan's pristine waters or evenhorseback ride along the countryside?

Best for: midnight sun, Hafnarfjörður Viking Festival,National Holiday of Iceland, Fisherman’s Day andthe 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 crowdsand mild weather

September marks the end of the busy summer months but temperatures can still fall between 40-50°F. 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 andberry picking

See the vibrant autumnal colors 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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