Best Time to Visit Iceland
Last updated: November 8, 2025
Iceland is a land of fire and ice — a country where glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls sit side by side. With dramatic landscapes, endless summer daylight, and winter’s Northern Lights, Iceland is beautiful year-round. The best time to visit depends on what you want to see and do — from chasing the midnight sun to spotting the aurora borealis.
🌸 Spring (April – May): Melting Ice and Fresh Beginnings
Spring in Iceland marks the transition from winter to summer. Snow begins to melt, waterfalls roar with power, and the countryside slowly turns green. It’s a quieter time to visit before the summer rush, with milder weather and longer days returning.
Highlights:
- Cool temperatures (5–10 °C)
- Ideal for exploring waterfalls, hot springs, and national parks
- Puffin colonies begin to return to the cliffs
- Fewer tourists and lower prices
☀️ Summer (June – August): Midnight Sun and Road-Trip Adventures
Summer is the most popular time to visit Iceland. The days are long — with nearly 24 hours of daylight in June — and the weather is at its mildest. It’s perfect for road trips, hiking, whale watching, and exploring the Highlands.
Highlights:
- Mild temperatures (10–20 °C)
- Almost continuous daylight and spectacular scenery
- Best access to the Highlands and F-roads
- Festivals and outdoor events across the country
🍂 Autumn (September – October): Colour, Calm, and Northern Lights
Autumn brings golden tones to Iceland’s landscapes and cooler evenings ideal for seeing the Northern Lights. The summer crowds have gone, but the weather remains manageable, making it a great time for photography and relaxation.
Highlights:
- Crisp temperatures (5–12 °C)
- Excellent time for aurora viewing and fewer tourists
- Quieter roads and lower accommodation rates
- Harvest festivals and colourful scenery
❄️ Winter (November – March): Northern Lights and Ice Caves
Winter transforms Iceland into a frozen wonderland. Snow blankets the countryside, and icy waterfalls and glaciers create stunning photo opportunities. This is the best time to experience ice caves and the magical Northern Lights dancing across the sky.
Highlights:
- Cold temperatures (−5 – 5 °C)
- Ideal for Northern Lights hunting and ice-cave tours
- Blue Lagoon and geothermal spas at their most atmospheric
- Short daylight hours but fewer visitors and great deals
🇮🇸 In Summary
- Best for sightseeing: June – August
- Best for Northern Lights: September – March
- Best for road trips: June – September
- Best for budget travel: April – May and October – November
From the thundering waterfalls of Gullfoss to the black-sand beaches of Vik and the otherworldly landscapes of the Golden Circle, Iceland offers an adventure in every season. Whether bathed in midnight sunlight or shimmering under the aurora, this remarkable country never fails to inspire.
Top Travel Tips for Iceland
- Visa: Iceland is part of the Schengen Area. Visitors from many countries (including the US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia) do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days.
- Power Adapter: Iceland uses Type F sockets (the standard 2-pin European plug). The standard voltage is 230V and 50Hz.
- Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Iceland. Service charges are included in your bill (for restaurants, taxis, etc.), so tipping is not expected, though it is always appreciated for exceptional service.
- Transport: Renting a car is the most popular way to see the country via the Ring Road (Route 1). Be aware that F-roads (mountain roads) require a 4x4 vehicle and are only open in summer.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Currency (Icelandic Króna)
The official currency is the Icelandic Króna (ISK), not the Euro. Iceland is also a largely cashless society. Credit and debit cards (especially those with chip-and-PIN) are accepted almost everywhere, even for small purchases. It's a good idea to have a card with no foreign transaction fees.
✅ Good News: Tap Water
The tap water in Iceland is exceptionally pure and safe to drink. It's some of the cleanest in the world. Do not buy bottled water; just bring a reusable water bottle and fill it up from any tap.
Things to do in Iceland
Bathe in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, explore the stunning Golden Circle route, hunt for the Northern Lights, or walk on a glacier. Book your tours and activities easily via our trusted partners: