Iceland, the land of fire and ice, offers two starkly different yet equally mesmerising experiences depending on when you visit. Whether you’re chasing the ethereal Northern Lights in winter or basking in the Midnight Sun during summer, this Nordic island promises an adventure like no other. But when is the best time to go? (There’s no bad time) Let me take you on a journey through Iceland’s seasons to help you decide whether to pack your warmest parka or your sunniest t-shirt.
The Winter Wonderland: Iceland from October to March
A Snowy Spectacle
When winter blankets Iceland in snow, it transforms into a magical realm straight out of a fairy tale. Picture yourself surrounded by pristine white landscapes, with steam rising from hot springs and icy glaciers glinting in the low sunlight. It’s a photographer’s paradise and a nature lover’s dream. It really is my favourite time to visit! Gorgeous!
Chasing the Northern Lights
One of the main draws of visiting Iceland in winter is the chance to witness the Aurora Borealis. These dancing lights in the sky are a bucket-list item for many travellers, and Iceland offers some of the best viewing opportunities in the world.
“There’s nothing quite like watching the green and purple lights dance across the sky. It’s a humbling experience that reminds you of the raw beauty of our planet.” – Jón Jónsson, Northern Lights tour guide
Winter Activities
- Ice cave exploration
- Glacier hiking
- Snowmobiling
- Skiing and snowboarding
- Hot spring hopping
The Challenges of Winter Travel
While winter in Iceland is undoubtedly beautiful, it comes with its own set of challenges. Daylight hours are limited, with some days seeing only 4-5 hours of light. Roads can be icy and treacherous, and some highland routes are closed entirely.
Winter Festivals and Events
Þorrablót (January): Traditional midwinter feast.
Reykjavík Winter Lights Festival (February): Celebrates winter with light installations.
Iceland Airwaves (November): International music festival.
Recommended Article:
Summer Serenity: Iceland from April to September
Endless Days Under the Midnight Sun
As winter retreats, Iceland bursts into life. From late May to early August, the sun barely sets, giving you endless hours to explore. This natural phenomenon, known as the Midnight Sun, bathes the landscape in a warm, golden glow that seems to last forever.
Lush Landscapes and Wildlife
Summer reveals Iceland’s verdant side. Wildflowers carpet the countryside, puffins return to the coastal cliffs, and waterfalls roar with the meltwater from winter snows. It’s a time of abundance and activity, both for nature and visitors alike.
Summer Activities
- Hiking in the highlands
- Whale watching
- Horseback riding
- River rafting
- Midnight Sun golfing
The Busy Season
Summer is peak tourist season in Iceland, which means more crowds and higher prices. However, it also means more tour options, easier travel conditions, and a vibrant atmosphere in towns and villages across the country.
Summer Festivals and Events
- Reykjavík Arts Festival (June)
- Secret Solstice Music Festival (June)
- Þjóðhátíð (August) – One of Iceland’s biggest outdoor festivals
Weather Comparison
Winter:
- Average temperature: -2°C to 4°C (28°F to 39°F)
- Daylight hours: 4-7 hours
- Precipitation: Frequent snow and rain
Summer:
- Average temperature: 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F)
- Daylight hours: Up to 21 hours
- Precipitation: Less frequent, mostly rain
Further Reading:
Recommended Tours In Iceland
Accommodation and Travel Considerations
Winter Cosiness
In winter, many hotels offer special Northern Lights wake-up calls. Cosy up by a fireplace in a remote cabin or soak in a hot tub under the starry sky. However, some rural accommodations may close for the season, so book in advance.
Tip: Airbnb generally have the best places to stay.
Summer Camping
Summer opens up possibilities for camping and campervan travel. It’s a fantastic way to explore Iceland’s stunning landscapes, but be sure to book campsites in advance during peak season.
“There’s nothing like waking up to the sound of a nearby waterfall and stepping out of your tent to see rainbows in the mist.” – Helen Ross, travel blogger
Budgeting for Your Trip
Iceland can be expensive year-round, but there are some seasonal differences to consider:
- Winter: Lower accommodation rates, but higher costs for winter gear rental and specialised tours.
- Summer: Higher overall prices due to peak season, but more budget-friendly activity options available.
Iconic Sights in Different Seasons
The Golden Circle
The Golden Circle! This popular tourist route offers different charms in each season:
- Winter: Snow-covered Gullfoss waterfall, steaming geysers against white landscapes.
- Summer: Lush green surroundings, rainbows in the mist of waterfalls.
Vatnajökull National Park
Home to Europe’s largest glacier, this park is a year-round wonder:
- Winter: Ice cave tours, glacier hiking with crampons.
- Summer: Easier hiking conditions, stunning contrast of black sand and white ice.
Reykjavík
Iceland’s capital has a different vibe each season:
- Winter: Cosy cafes, Christmas markets, New Year’s Eve fireworks.
- Summer: Outdoor concerts, bustling street life, midnight sun festivities.
What to know How to Plan or Save for a Trip?
What to Pack
Winter Essentials
- Thermal base layers
- Waterproof and windproof outer layers
- Sturdy, waterproof boots
- Warm hat, gloves, and scarf
- Swimsuit for hot springs
Summer Must-Haves
- Layers for variable weather
- Light waterproof jacket
- Comfortable hiking boots
- Sleep mask for the Midnight Sun
- Insect repellent
Must-Read Articles:
Driving in Iceland
Winter Driving
- Rent a 4×4 vehicle (We recommend Blue Car Rental)
- Check road conditions regularly
- Carry emergency supplies
- Be prepared for sudden weather changes
Iceland real-time weather can be found here.
Summer Driving
- More accessible highland roads
- Longer daylight hours for driving
- Still need to be cautious of weather changes
- Book popular car rentals in advance
Making the Most of Each Season
Winter Tips
- Book Northern Lights tours early in your trip in case of cancellations due to weather
- Take advantage of indoor attractions on stormy days
- Enjoy winter-only activities like ice caving
Summer Tips
- Book accommodations well in advance
- Take advantage of long days for packed itineraries
- Consider visiting popular sites late at night to avoid crowds
For you to read:
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Choosing between Iceland in winter and summer is like deciding between two different worlds. Winter offers a mystical, otherworldly experience with the Northern Lights and snow-covered landscapes, while summer provides endless days, lush scenery, and a wider range of activities. Ultimately, the best time to visit Iceland depends on your personal preferences and what you want to experience. Whether you choose the cosy magic of winter or the vibrant energy of summer, Iceland promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you longing to return.
Share Your Thoughts
Have you experienced Iceland in different seasons? We’d love to hear about your adventures! Share your favourite memories, or tips, in the comments below. Whether you’re team winter or team summer, your insights could help fellow travellers plan their perfect Icelandic getaway.
Related Inspiration articles:
- Chase the Aurora: Where to Find the Northern Lights
- The Ultimate Guide to Iceland’s East Fjords
- Reykjavik: The Ultimate Guide
- Iceland Bucket List: Best Things to Do in Iceland
Recommended Websites and Resources:
Your Questions, Answered
Can I see the Northern Lights in summer in Iceland?
Unfortunately, the Northern Lights are not visible during the summer months in Iceland due to the extended daylight hours. The best time to see the Aurora Borealis is from late September to late March.
Is it possible to do the Ring Road in winter?
While it’s possible to drive the Ring Road in winter, it’s not recommended unless you’re an experienced driver in winter conditions. Some sections may be closed due to weather, and road conditions can be challenging.
What are the pros and cons of visiting Iceland during the shoulder seasons?
Shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) offer a mix of winter and summer experiences. Pros include fewer tourists and lower prices. Cons include unpredictable weather and some tours not operating.
How crowded does Iceland get in peak summer?
Popular tourist sites can get quite crowded in July and August. However, with proper planning and by visiting early in the morning or late in the evening, you can still enjoy these sites without the crowds.
Is swimming in the ocean possible in Iceland?
While it’s possible year-round for the very brave (location depending, definitely not on the south coast), ocean swimming is more common in summer. Water temperatures range from 10-15°C (50-59°F). Many prefer the numerous heated pools and hot springs instead.
Recommended Tours for Iceland
Travel Planning Resources
Ready to book your next trip? These trusted resources have been personally vetted to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Book Your Flights: Kick off your travel planning by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. Our years of experience with them confirm they offer the most competitive prices.
Book Your Hotel: For the best hotel rates, use Booking.com if you’re in Europe. For other destinations, TripAdvisor is your go-to resource.
Find Apartment Rentals: For affordable apartment rentals, check out VRBO. They consistently offer the best prices.
Travel Insurance: Never travel without insurance. Here are our top recommendations:
- SafetyWing for occasional travellers.
- Medjet for global air medical transport and travel security.
Book Your Activities: Discover walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more on Get Your Guide. They have a vast selection of activities to enhance your trip.
Need More Help Planning Your Trip? Visit our Resources Page to see all the companies we trust and use for our travels.
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