Updated: January 2020
When is the best time to go to Iceland? That’s a difficult question to answer. Each season has its perks depending on what you want to see, do and experience!
Iceland is the perfect destination for a first-time solo traveler to a family looking to road trip around the island. With friendly locals, stunning scenery and a lively tourism scene, you should experience Iceland at least once in your lifetime.
Here is the rundown on the best time to go to Iceland!
April to May
In April, Iceland is deep into spring, and the snow blizzards partway to rain, wind, and the occasional sunny day. Days are getting longer, the earth is opening up with a few early blooms.
Gone are the heavy winter storms and the dangerously icy roads—instead the temperature is about 40-50 degrees. This is the season to go if you are looking for green hill slopes, fishing, and golfing.
Festivals: Aldrei for eg sudur Rock Music Festival in Isafjordur & Design March
June to August
In June, spring gives way to summer, the best season in terms of fine weather. Temperatures can range from 50-60 degrees and the grass is lush and vibrantly green. Horses and sheep freely roam the countryside. In the summer, the midnight sun reaches its peak giving 24 hours of daylight.
On the rare hot day, Icelanders run around in shorts and fire up the barbecue. Iceland, in general, is more accessible during this time; shops are open later and roads in the highlands are reachable.
This is the height of the tourist season, however, so expect crowds, overbooked hotels, and higher prices.
Summer Highlights: Thjodhatid in Westman Isles & Culture Night in Reykjavik
September to November
October heralds the beginning of the Northern Lights season. As cooler temperatures begin to draw closer, people huddle in the cinemas and cafes.
The cities are about with film, art, and music festivals during this time—including the world-famous Iceland Airwaves. Out in the countryside, grasses turn russet and changing the landscape to an unearthly color.
Fall Highlights: Iceland Airwaves & Reykjavik International Film Festival
December to April
Winter in Iceland is snow and ice, but Reykjavik enjoys milder temperatures than the rest of the country—only about 31 degrees. Tours book up for the Northern Lights, glacier hiking, and other exciting snow activities.
Some roads will be closed during this time, and it’s not uncommon to hear a nationwide storm alert on the radio. If you’re looking to drive around the island in remote areas, it is best to avoid this season—most people stay indoors to avoid the weather.
Christmas time is a magical week abound with lights, candles, mulled wine, trees, and special Christmas beers brewed just for the holiday.
Winter Highlights: Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival
The best time to visit Iceland depends on your interests. Summer is one of the best times to visit this country because the weather is pleasant or you can go in September.
Definitely agree, Natalie! It really does depend on your interests
Hello!
Thanks for all the detailed infos. You encouraged me even more to visit Iceland! It’s on my bucket list!
I’d be really grateful if you could please answer a few queries.
I understand that Summer is the preferred season, but then, with the large number of tourists, won’t we have issues in finding a spot at the campsites?
I love nature and was particularly fascinated by the scenery, the greenery, of Iceland. That’s one of the main reasons why I want to visit. In this case, is Spring a good time to visit?
You mentioned about an issue caused by the winds that was settled by your insurance company. If I take the premium insurance offered by the company where I’m renting the campervan (Happy Campers you’d said, if I’m not wrong?), won’t it cover the cost of that damage also?
Finally, when we apply for a visa, we are forced to give details about our accommodation. It is mandatory to reserve a room in a hotel or hostel or AirBnB. If we are planning to use the campervan, how do we proceed, please?
Sorry for all these questions and thanks in advance!
Hi Lakshana!
Since you can’t reserve ahead of time for most camping spots in Iceland, I understand the fear. While the summer months are definitely peak tourist season, you can usually find a spot to camp as they are mostly large open fields. If for some reason, you get turned away because of too many people (this doesn’t usually happen), there’s likely another campsite not too far away.
From April to May, it’s the perfect season for fishing, golfing, and exploring the outdoors. So you can definitely opt to visit in spring, though it will be colder!
As for insurance, you’ll have to discuss with the company! I still like to opt for World Nomads on top of that, just in case.
If you haven’t already, take a look at these posts, too! https://theblondeabroad.com/ultimate-iceland-travel-guide/
When it comes to the visa – I’m not entirely sure. As I was coming from the US, I didn’t need to apply for an Iceland visa. I would recommend joining the TBA Travel Tribe on Facebook and asking the ladies there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/947813952040668