Best Time to Visit Iceland – Weather in Iceland by Month

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When considering all the critical factors, the best timeframe to visit Iceland is in September. This month’s average temperature, while unpredictable, isn’t as frigid as the winter climate in Iceland. Plus, you can see the first northern lights of the season if you visit in September!

Furthermore, Iceland possesses stunning autumn landscapes full of mesmerizing hues, which is why we conduct photography tours of Iceland during this time period.

That said, the weather in Iceland in June, July, and August is best for enjoying the hiking paths. This is also the optimal time to see whales in Iceland and the friendly puffins that nest on the island.

Experiencing the frozen wonders of Iceland`s winter climate offers sights to behold, with stunning white landscapes appearing even greener at dusk. This is also the prime opportunity to witness the enchanting northern lights dancing across the sky. If visiting in spring, there is no need to fret as blossoming scenery dotted with wildflowers will delight the eye.

Determining the most suitable timeframe to travel to Iceland isn’t straightforward, but by the conclusion of this guide, you’ll comprehend when is best to visit Iceland as well as when to return since this nation warrants multiple trips.

It’s no wonder why there are Iceland holiday packages accessible year-round!

Table of Contents

When is the best time to visit Iceland?

To help you decide the most suitable time to travel to Iceland, this guide will address:

• What is Iceland’s climate like?
• Spring weather in Iceland
• Summer weather in Iceland
• Autumn weather in Iceland
• Winter weather in Iceland

At the conclusion of the article, you’ll also find a segment where we recommend when to visit Iceland based on your interests (northern lights, midnight sun, whale-watching, puffins, hiking, etc .)

	JAN	FEB	MAR	APR	MAY	JUN	JUL	AUG	SEP	OCT	NOV	DEC
Daylight duration	5 hrs	9 hrs	11 hrs	14 hrs	18-20 hrs	20-22 hrs	20 hrs	15-16 hrs	12-13 hrs	9 hrs	5-6 hrs	4 hrs
Duration of daylight	1 hr	2 hrs	4 hrs	5 hrs	6 hrs	6 hrs	6 hrs	5 hrs	4 hrs	2 hrs	2 hrs	0 hrs
Normal lower temps.	27 °F	28 °F	28 °F	32° F	37 °F	45 °F	48 °F	46 °F	41 °F	36 °F	32 °F	30 °F
Average temperature.	32 °F	32 °F	32 °F	37° F	43 °F	48 °F	52 °F	52 °F	45 °F	39 °F	37 °F	36 °F
Average maximum temperature.	37 °F	36 °F	36 °F	41° F	48 °F	52 °F	55 °F	56 °F	48 °F	43 °F	41 °F	39 °F
Precipitation frequent days	19	16	18	18	21	21	21	23	23	21	20	19
Average precip.	50 mm	40 mm	40 mm	20 mm	40 mm	20 mm	20 mm	30 mm	40 mm	30 mm	30 mm	40 mm
Northern Lights	Yes	Yes	Yes	Potentially	No	No	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Aquatic Mammals	Potentially	Potentially	Potentially	Potentially	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Potentially	Potentially	Potentially	Potentially
Puffins	No	No	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	No	No
Highlands open	No	No	No	No	No	Maybe	Yes	Yes	Maybe	No	No	No
WEATHER PATTERNS IN ICELAND BY MONTH

What is Iceland’s climate like? – Weather in Iceland

Unlike other places located at similar latitudes, Iceland’s climate isn’t extremely variable. This is owing to currents from the Gulf of Mexico sweeping the southern and western coasts, leading to moderately warm winter and summer temperatures. There are also internal climate variances within the island; temperatures in Reykjavik tend to be higher than in the Highlands generally.

In general, the winter and summer seasons have milder temperatures compared to other semi-arctic areas, lending the island a more oceanic climate. However, the weather in Iceland can vary greatly throughout the day. This reflects the Icelandic saying, “If you don’t like the conditions, wait 5 minutes!”

Regardless of when you travel to Iceland, I advise always packing water-resistant winter clothing as well as lightweight clothing in case temperatures increase. You can even bring your bathing suit if you plan on visiting the gorgeous hot springs in Iceland.

Average temperature in Iceland

Average temperatures in Iceland can vary depending on the area. In the capital Reykjavik, the mean winter temperature is around 34 or 35 °F, while the median summer temperature is approximately 54 °F.

That said, the unpredictable weather conditions in Iceland mean that temperatures could drop to 14 °F or rise to 77 °F, relying on the particular time of the year. This employs to the whole southern district considering that, as the separation to the northern diminishes, the winters get colder, with additional snowfall. There can even be a difference of 5-20 levels between a single region of the island and another.

Average precipitation in Iceland

Precipitation is quite common in Iceland, although most of the rain and snowfall occurs in spring and autumn. The winter weather in Iceland includes rain, snow, and wind gusts, so be prepared.

Rainfall is particularly frequent in Reykjavik, with around 150 days of precipitation annually. In the more northern locale of Akureyri, the average yearly rainy days number just over 100.

However, as mentioned earlier, the weather conditions for Iceland’s climate can vary greatly each day, so travelers may encounter rain, snow, wind, or sunshine on any given visit .

Conditions in Iceland in April

The start of spring comes to Iceland in April, which is the time when the winter thaw occurs. While temperatures at this time are warmer than other places at a similar latitude, they are cooler than many European cities. Temperatures in Iceland in April seldom rise above 50° F.

April is also among the wettest months of the year, and as it is a transitional period, snow can fall in some regions.

This is the best time to visit Iceland if traveling along Iceland’s Ring Road or driving the Golden Circle. Despite frequent precipitation, April brings lovely spring colors, and temperatures are pleasant for sightseeing.

• Hours of daylight: 14
• Hours of sunshine: 5
• Average low temperature: 32° F
• Average temperature: 37° F
• Average high temperature: 41° F
• Average rainy days: 18
• Average precipitation: 20mm
• Northern Lights: Possibly
• Whales: Possibly
• Puffins: No
• Highlands open: No

Forecast for Iceland in May

By May, spring has come to Iceland, so you can take enjoyment from the attractive colors and flowering plants.

The climate in Iceland in May is quite pleasant, despite rain occurring frequently. Also, the access routes to the Highlands will most likely be closed if you visit during this time period. However, it’s the best time to travel to Iceland if you’re arranging a Ring Road itinerary or you want to drive the Golden Circle. Additionally, May is when the first puffins begin to nest, and more whales start to appear.

• Hours of daylight: 18-20
• Hours of sunshine: 6
• Average low temperature: 37 °F
• Average temperature: 43 °F
• Average highest temperature: 48 °F
• Rainy days: 21
• Average precipitation: 40mm
• Northern Lights: No
• Whales: Yes
• Puffins: Yes
• Highlands open: No

Forecast for Iceland in June

In June, you can see the midnight sun, a peculiar phenomenon in which the sun glows 24 hours a day. This makes June one of the prime times to travel to Iceland. In addition to seeing this natural spectacle, you can explore throughout the island without any issues since the access routes to the Highlands are finally open. This means that most of the activities in Iceland are accessible during this month.

Occasionally there may be a cooler day, but temperatures tend to be warm.

• Hours of daylight: 20-22
• Hours of sunshine: 6
• Average low temperature: 45 °F
• Average temperature: 48 °F
• Average high temperature: 52 °F
• Rainy days: 21
• Average precipitation: 20mm
• Northern Lights: No
• Whales: Yes
• Puffins: Yes
• Highlands open: Yes

Forecast for Iceland in July

The weather conditions in Iceland during July are warm enough for the lupines to bloom, spreading the landscapes with purple flowers. Without uncertainty, this is one of the prime months to go to Iceland if you want to enjoy this country’s natural attractions, such as its flora and fauna. There is also a good amount of daylight in July, and the temperatures are suitable for ambulating outside.

• Hours of daylight: 20
• Hours of sunshine: 6
• Average low temperature: 48 °F
• Average temperature: 52 °F
• Average high temperature: 55 °F
• Rainy days: 21
• Average precipitation: 20mm
• Northern Lights: No
• Whales: Yes
• Puffins: Yes
• Highlands open: Yes

Climate in Iceland in August

The month of August witnesses an immense influx of tourists on the island. However, this period can also be counted among the optimum times to visit Iceland if you wish to indulge in trekking activities across the Highlands.

The conditions for weather in Iceland during the month of August tend to be warmer than June and July, and there tends to be less precipitation. This time frame also features several cultural festivals and events, as well as a variety of outdoor activities one can participate in.

• Hours of daylight: 15-16
• Hours of sunshine: 5
• Average low temperature: 46 °F
• Average temperature: 52 °F
• Average highest temperature: 56 °F
• Rainy days: 23
• Average precipitation: 30mm
• Northern Lights: No
• Whales: Yes
• Puffins: Yes
• Highlands open: Yes

Expected climate conditions in Iceland during September

Iceland is completely loaded with incredible fall landscapes in September, and this is when the first Northern Lights exhibit in the sky. This is the optimum time of year to visit Iceland if you like landscape photography since you can capture amazing shots of the green moss sprinkled into the red and orange autumn hues.

• Hours of daylight: 12-13
• Hours of sunshine: 4
• Average low temperature: 41 °F
• Average temperature: 45 °F
• Average highest temperature: 48 °F
• Rainy days: 23
• Average precipitation: 40mm
• Northern Lights: Yes
• Whales: Maybe
• Puffins: No
• Highlands open: Yes

Typical weather patterns in Iceland in October

October brings the inaugural snowfall of the season, so the routes to the Highlands start to close. During this month, there aren’t too many tourists, rendering it the best time of the year to explore Iceland if you’re searching for some peace and solitude.

While exploring Iceland in October, the temperatures don’t get too low, so it’s still possible to travel around the island without being sidetracked by snow. It’s also an ideal month if you’re looking for the optimum timeframe to view the Northern Lights in Iceland. In short, October is a good time to enjoy a bit of everything Iceland has to offer.

• Hours of daylight: 9
• Hours of sunshine: 2
• Average low temperature: 36 °F
• Average temperature: 39 °F
• Average highest temperature: 43 °F
• Rainy days: 21
• Average precipitation: 30mm
• Northern Lights: Yes
• Whales: Maybe
• Puffins: No
• Highlands open: No

Weather conditions in Iceland in November

November is undoubtedly the peak time to travel to Iceland and observe killer whales around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and along the southern coast. You can believe me when I say that whale-watching in Iceland is one of the most amazing experiences you`ll have during your trip.

It’s also one of the optimum months to visit Iceland if your aim is to glimpse the Northern Lights, although you’ll need luck with the atmosphere and clear evening skies.

• Hours of daylight: 5-6
• Hours of sunshine: 2
• Average low temperature: 32 °F
• Average temperature: 37 °F
• Average high temperature: 41 °F
• Rainy days: 20
• Average precipitation: 30mm
• Northern Lights: Yes
• Whales: Maybe
• Puffins: No
• Highlands open: No

Weather conditions in Iceland in December

Celebrating the holidays in Iceland during December can create a magical experience owing to the snow-covered landscapes. This month signifies the beginning of winter, so temperatures are at their lowest. However, it is also one of the prime occasions to goto Iceland’s naturally warm springs, especially Blue Lagoon. Immersing in an outside thermal pool while surrounded by wintry scenery is a spectacular thing to do in Iceland.

• Daylight hours: 4
• Sunshine hours: 0
• Average low temperature: 30 °F
• Average temperature: 36 °F
• Average high temperature: 39 °F
• Rainy days: 19
• Average precipitation: 40mm
• Northern Lights: Yes
• Whales: Perhaps
• Puffins: No
• Highlands open: No

Climate norms in Iceland during January

January tends to have the fewest visitors to Iceland each year, so it is also the most affordable time to travel there. Besides lower prices, the snow blanketed landscapes offer stunning scenery and a variety of winter adventures. One recommended activity is visiting the famed Blue Lagoon geothermal spa and other pools around the island, which are beautiful in winter months.

• Daylight hours: 5
• Hours of sunshine: 1
• Average low temperature: -3 °C
• Average temperature: 0 °C
• Average high temperature: 3 °C
• Rainy days: 19
• Average precipitation: 50mm
• Northern Lights: Yes
• Whales: Possibly
• Puffins: No
• Highlands open: No

Weather conditions in Iceland in February

In February, the Icelandic landscapes are still covered in snow, so it’s a beautiful time of the year to visit. During this month, you can also see some frozen waterfalls. While there are several gorgeously scenic cascades in Iceland, seeing them immobilized in the winter months is a novel experience.

• Daylight hours: 9
• Hours of sunshine: 2
• Average low temperature: 28 °F
• Average temperature: 32 °F
• Average high temperature: 36 °F
• Rainy days: 16
• Average precipitation: 40mm
• Northern Lights: Yes
• Whales: Maybe
• Puffins: No
• Highlands open: No

Conditions in Iceland in March

By March, the earliest signs of the coming spring start to show, so the climate in Iceland starts improving. Moreover, there are generally fewer clouds and higher KP rates corresponding with the spring equinox, making March one of the prime times to witness the Northern Lights in Iceland.

That said, there is still snow, but the temperatures in Iceland will be more pleasant even if it’s cold. Plus, there are additional hours of daylight so you can make the most of your trip.

• Hours of daylight: 11
• Hours of sunshine: 4
• Average low temperature: 28 °F
• Average temperature: 32 °F
• Average high temperature: 36 °F
• Rainy days: 18
• Average precipitation: 40mm
• Northern Lights: Yes
• Whales: Possibly
• Puffins: No
• Highlands open: No

What is the best time to go to Iceland?

I cannot specify which is the best time of year to visit Iceland since each month offers distinct appeals. Therefore, any time of year represents a good time to visit this country, although selecting a month aligning with one`s interests is recommended.

To make selecting easier for you, I’ll share the best times to do the most popular activities in Iceland.

• Locations where you can cheaply fly to Fuerteventura
• Best time to go hiking in Iceland
• Best time to see whales in Iceland
• Best time to see puffins in Iceland
• Optimal period to witness the midnight sun in Iceland
• Best time to visit ice caves in Iceland
• Least expensive time to visit Iceland

Best time to visit Iceland for the Northern Lights

If you’re pondering about the ideal time to visit Iceland to view the Northern Lights, I suggest exploring our guide on where and when to see the Northern Lights in Iceland. Winter is the best season, particularly in March when there are fewer clouds and high KP rates that coincide with the spring equinox. However, mid-September to mid-April is also a decent time to see auroras.

I suggest taking a Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik for those who are uncertain how to spot the aurora borealis or those who have never seen them. During the tour, expert guides will bring you to the best places where the sky conditions favor viewing the Northern Lights. I recommend this particular tour because you can repeat it at no cost if you don’t see any auroras during your initial experience.

Also, if possible, be sure to stay at one of the .

Best time to go hiking in Iceland

The summertime provides many advantages for traveling to Iceland if hiking is a priority. During the summer months, weather conditions are rather pleasant, allowing effortless access to the magnificent mountainous inner regions of Iceland. Moreover, it is when the excellent camping destinations across Iceland have opened their gates.

It is specifically in the Highlands where you’ll find the finest hiking routes. So, if your goal is to take some beautiful treks, then June, July, August, and September are the most suitable months to visit Iceland. July, in particular, is the most ideal month since the temperatures are very pleasant and the days are longer .

Best time to see whales in Iceland

The most suitable time to visit Iceland for whale observing is from June to August, although you can spot cetaceans year-round, particularly from Reykjavik.

If you wish to view whales in Iceland, I recommend a summer trip as spotting them can be difficult in winter. That said, if traveling during colder months and booking an excursion from Reykjavik provides a higher chance of observing cetaceans. Plus, they`ll permit repeating the tour at no cost if none are seen the initial time.

For summer visitors, the optimum tours depart from Húsavik and Akureyri. We greatly enjoyed this excursion, but you can also examine our guide to the finest whale-watching tours in Iceland.

Best time to see puffins in Iceland

The ideal time period for observing puffins in Iceland extends from April through August. The small sea birds migrate to the island every spring for mating, so they`re easily noticeable on the cliffs in southern Iceland. Those wanting to sight these cute creatures should think about touring the basalt promontories in Vik or Dyrhóaley during these months.

You can also book a tour to see puffins, and I recommend this excursion that departs from Reykjavik .

Best time to see the midnight sun in Iceland

Alongside the Northern Lights, the midnight sun is one of Iceland’s most popular natural phenomena. Although we have not yet had the chance to see it, we plan to during one of our future trips to Iceland.

The optimal time of year to visit Iceland if wanting to see the midnight sun is during the summer solstice, which occurs around June 21st. During this timeframe, the sun shines for 24 consecutive hours each day in the Icelandic region above the Arctic Circle. So, to fully experience the midnight sun, you’ll need to travel to the northern section of the country .

Best time to visit ice caves in Iceland

The optimal time to visit ice caves in Iceland is during winter since low temperatures are necessary for huge masses of ice to form. The summer heat levels in Iceland are too warm to sustain the caves, so if witnessing these special creations is desired, intend your trip somewhere between mid-November and mid-March.

The month of February allows visitors to Iceland to admire the amazing natural phenomenon of ice caves with optimum conditions, especially the spectacular deep blue caverns located within the massive Vatnajökull glacier. I suggest reserving this tour to experience the full magnificence of this breathtaking cave setting.

What makes these caverns unique is that their visual characteristics are altered annually. Specifically, the shapes and dimensions fluctuate contingent on how the ice accumulations developed, implying no matter how many times you pay a visit, it will be an unprecedented experience .

Cheapest time to travel to Iceland

If you’re looking for the most economical time to visit Iceland, come here during the winter months. Between January and May, the tourism sector slows down, so you can find great prices on flights and lodgings. Rates are particularly low in January!

However, some lodgings close during this period, so be sure to do your research before reserving your journey. Luckily, you won’t have any trouble deciding where to reside in Iceland because many hotels are open year-round.

From June to December, costs go up for Iceland’s crest travel season. On the off chance that you’re going to visit during these months, I propose reserving your convenience ahead of time since considerable measures of travelers will be voyaging here, particularly in August.

Iceland may seem an expensive nation so check our guide on how to vacation on a budget for certain tips and techniques!

Best month to visit Iceland

As you might have previously found out, there`s no ideal month to check out Iceland because each season has some thing exceptional to provide. If you decide to travel during the winter season months, you can enjoy lovely snow-covered landscapes as well as ice caves, frozen waterfalls, as well as the Northern Lights.

If you visit during the spring, you’ll have the chance to see the winter thaw and drive along the Ring Road or the Golden Circle, two popular road trips that take you to some of the best spots in Iceland.

Summer provides the premier opportunity to view puffins in Iceland, along with whales and perpetual daylight, while autumn in Iceland is a magical season full of striking colours and flora.

To summarize, here is what you can do based on the weather conditions in Iceland by month:

I hope you leave feeling more assured about choosing the ideal timing to visit Iceland so you can appreciate the activities that particularly attract you. I can guarantee you will develop affection for this nation regardless of when you go. Lastly, remember to verify the predicted weather by visiting the official Icelandic meteorological website, Vedur.is.

If you have any questions about the ideal time to visit Iceland, leave me a comment below and I’ll try to help you as much as I can. I hope you enjoy this lovely country as much as we did! Safe travels!