The best time to visit Iceland

Despite the deep winter conditions, January in Iceland offers dramatic, icy landscapes and exceptional value for those willing to brave the cold. Temperatures hover between −1°C and −5°C, with limited daylight (about 4–5 hours), but this darkness brings prime conditions for viewing the northern lights, especially in the northern regions around Akureyri or the Westfjords. South Iceland remains accessible, with highlights like the Golden Circle and glacier lagoons transformed into frozen, silent wonders. Reykjavik is lively, embracing the season with festivals and traditional midwinter feasting.

February blends moody skies with longer daylight hours and continued opportunities for snow sports and northern lights. Conditions are still wintry, especially in the north and Westfjords, but road access in the south and west remains reliable. Reykjavik hosts the colourful Winter Lights Festival, which brings life and art to the darkest days. February is also a good time to enjoy hot springs and geothermal pools with fewer crowds, especially in areas like West Iceland’s Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

As winter starts to retreat, March offers a fascinating transition with lengthening days and snow still blanketing much of the country. North Iceland continues to offer ski and snowmobiling opportunities, particularly around Akureyri, while southern routes remain open for ice cave tours and early spring exploration. Waterfalls like Gullfoss and Skogafoss begin to thaw, making them especially photogenic. Reykjavik’s restaurant scene comes alive during the Food & Fun Festival, spotlighting Iceland’s culinary innovation.

April brings a clear shift in season, with longer days, melting snow and blooming moss returning to the landscapes. While the Highlands remain closed, many west Iceland and south coast routes become easier to access. Migratory birds begin to return and quiet hiking paths open around areas like Borgarfjorour and Thingvellir. It’s an excellent shoulder season with fewer tourists, ideal for exploring without the summer crowds. Some roads may still be icy, but Reykjavik and nearby sights are easily accessible.

May is one of Iceland’s best-kept secrets. With 18+ hours of daylight, blooming wildflowers and low tourist numbers, it offers excellent value and great conditions for road trips. Puffins begin to return to cliffs in the Westman islands and Westfjords, while east Iceland’s fjords emerge from winter silence. Popular spots like Jokulsarlon and Skogafoss are less crowded, and trails in the Reykjanes Peninsula begin to open.

Iceland’s high season begins as summer takes hold. The midnight sun creates nearly 24-hour daylight, making June ideal for photography, road trips and outdoor adventures. The Highlands begin to open, allowing access to places like Landmannalaugar and Kerlingarfjoll. Wildlife watching is superb, with puffins, whales and Arctic foxes active. Reykjavik comes alive for National Day and campsites and hiking trails start to fill up with locals and international travellers.

July is the warmest and most active month, with highs occasionally reaching 20°C. Every region is accessible, including the remote East Fjords and Central Highlands. This is the best time for multi-day hikes, camping, glacier rafting and whale watching from Husavik. Crowds peak across the south and in Reykjavik, but East and Westfjords remain delightfully quiet. Local festivals showcase Icelandic creativity and music in spectacular natural settings.

August continues summer’s momentum but with slightly cooler evenings and the return of night skies. It’s still busy across the south, though highland roads remain open and east Iceland’s landscapes shine with colour. Reykjavik hosts Pride and Culture Night, while locals gather for countryside sheep round-ups (rettir). It’s also berry-picking season in areas like Thingvellir and Skaftafell.

September is a golden month: trees turn amber, the first auroras appear and summer crowds fade. Days remain long enough for sightseeing and southern regions like Vik and Hofn are particularly photogenic with low-angle light. Highland access becomes weather-dependent, but most coastal areas are easily reachable. Accommodation is more available and roads are quieter, especially in the west and north.

October marks the shift into true autumn. Daylight decreases rapidly, storms become more frequent and the aurora season intensifies. Road conditions can change quickly, especially in the north and west, but Reykjavik remains accessible. Tourist numbers drop, making it ideal for travellers who want to combine culture and nature. Geothermal activity creates atmospheric backdrops for photography, particularly in the Myvatn and Hverageroi areas.

November is dark, cold and quiet, making it one of Iceland’s least crowded months. However, it offers prime aurora viewing and early access to ice caves. Snow begins to cover the interior and rural travel can be risky, but main routes remain open. Reykjavik’s cafes and museums offer warmth and culture, while festive markets start appearing at month’s end.

December is enchanting, despite long nights and unpredictable weather. Reykjavik turns festive with lights, markets and bonfires, while rural Iceland becomes a snowy wonderland. Ice cave tours begin in earnest, and the northern lights appear regularly. Roads can be challenging, especially in the north and east, but south Iceland is generally manageable with caution.