The best time to visit Iceland really depends on what kind of adventure you’re after. Want to explore Iceland’s lush landscapes and experience almost 24 hours of daylight? Then summer in Iceland (June to August) is perfect for you. If your dream is to witness the magical Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis), winter in Iceland offers the best chance, especially between late September and mid-April. Each season offers something unique—so your ideal travel time depends on your priorities, whether it’s scenic road trips, hiking, or chasing the aurora.
No matter your budget, trip length, or weather preferences, this ultimate Iceland travel guide will help you decide the best time to visit Iceland. As locals, we’ll share insider tips on seasonal highlights, top things to do in Iceland, and the most suitable rental car options for every kind of adventure. Wondering when the weather is best? Curious about when to catch the Northern Lights or explore Iceland’s top natural and historical sites? Or looking for the best place to rent a car in Iceland? Keep reading—we’ve got you covered.
Best Time to Visit Iceland for Good Weather
If you’re someone who doesn’t love the cold but still wants to visit Iceland, summer is the perfect time to go. From June to August, the weather is at its warmest—mild and pleasant—without the intense heat you’d find in other summer destinations. It’s a great time to enjoy Iceland’s nature, explore comfortably, and take advantage of the long daylight hours.
In the summer, Iceland’s temperatures usually sit between 4°C and 14°C—cool enough to stay comfortable but warm enough to enjoy being outdoors all day. What really sets this time of year apart is the endless daylight. With up to 21 hours of sunlight, you can experience the magic of the midnight sun, when the sky glows late into the night. It’s a surreal and unforgettable part of visiting Iceland in the summer.
With no snow on the ground, summer is the easiest time to drive in Iceland. Most roads—including seasonal mountain passes—are open and much safer to navigate, making long road trips quicker and more relaxed. Just keep in mind that F-roads (Iceland’s highland routes) are still challenging and best left to experienced drivers with proper 4×4 vehicles.
Summer also happens to be prime camping season. Whether you’re pitching a tent under the midnight sun or cruising the Ring Road in a rented camper or motorhome, it’s the perfect time to enjoy Iceland’s great outdoors.
When to See the Northern Lights in Iceland
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are one of Iceland’s most breathtaking natural wonders—and a big reason many travelers visit in the first place. Your best chance to see them is during the autumn and winter months, from September to March, when the skies are darkest. There’s also a slim chance of spotting them in late August or late April, but peak viewing happens during the long, clear nights of winter.
To catch the best view of the Aurora Borealis in Iceland, keep these essential tips in mind:
- Find the darkness: The Northern Lights are only visible when it’s dark, which makes Icelandic winter (from late September to March) the best time to spot them, thanks to minimal daylight hours.
- Look for clear skies: Cloud cover can block your view entirely, so your best chances come on cold, clear nights with minimal or no cloud interference.
- Get away from city lights: Light pollution makes the aurora harder to see, so head to remote locations far from streetlights and towns for the clearest view.
- Check the aurora forecast: Before heading out, visit the Icelandic Met Office’s aurora forecast website. It shows both cloud coverage and aurora activity levels, helping you plan your Northern Lights chase like a pro.
We advise renting a 4×4 SUV if you’re visiting Iceland in the winter and plan to drive yourself. Winter road conditions can be unpredictable, and a 4×4 rental gives you better traction, control, and peace of mind while exploring Iceland safely.
Iceland Outdoor Activities: When to Go for the Best Experience
Iceland offers outdoor adventures year-round, but for the average traveller summer is by far the best time to visit for outdoor activities. From June to August, you’ll enjoy long daylight hours, milder weather, and clear roads—perfect conditions for exploring. Many tours, like Zodiac boat rides on Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, puffin-watching, or volcano hikes, are only available in summer.
If you’re planning to hike, camp, or simply enjoy Iceland’s wild beauty without snow in the way, summer delivers the most options and the easiest access to remote areas.
For those with a more adventurous side (or the few that love the cold!), the winter months also offer some of the country’s most magical outdoor experiences. From Northern Lights tours under star-filled skies to ice cave explorations beneath shimmering glaciers, winter transforms the landscape into a dramatic playground. You can go snowmobiling on glaciers, snowboarding and skiing in the blue mountains, or soak in steaming hot springs surrounded by snow.
Though the days are shorter you will find plenty of things to do within the daylight hours – and some of the activities are even better with pitch-black skies.
When to Visit Iceland for Fewer Tourists and Lower Prices
Iceland is known for being pricey, but costs peak during summer when demand for flights, hotels, food, and rental cars is highest. If you’re visiting Iceland on a budget, the most affordable time is between November and March—just avoid the Christmas and New Year holidays. Fewer tourists in winter often means better deals.
For a nice balance between lower prices and good experiences, consider visiting in spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October), when crowds are thinner but much of Iceland is still accessible.
