Imagine a place where fire and ice meet, the skies light up with amazing hues, and nature’s wonders are everywhere you look. Iceland is a dream destination that offers unforgettable experiences and stunning views, whether you want to relax in hot springs, see the Northern Lights, or explore incredible glaciers.
However, when is the best time to visit Iceland? The timing of your trip can make a big difference, whether you’re looking for cheap flights, great weather, or specific adventures like whale watching or experiencing geothermal baths. This guide will list the top reasons to visit Iceland and the ideal months for each unique experience.
Northern Lights
The best time to visit Iceland for the northern lights is from late September to late March, with the best chances between November and January. This time of year has long and dark nights that are perfect for catching this amazing show.
The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are colorful lights that dance across the night sky. They happen when particles from the sun hit Earth’s atmosphere, creating beautiful greens, pinks, purples, and reds.
Iceland is one of the best places to see this magical display because it’s in the “aurora zone.” You can even spot them from Reykjavík, but it’s better to go somewhere less bright to get a clearer view. The Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is a great spot, with icebergs reflecting the lights.
To see the northern lights, check the aurora forecast, dress warmly, and be patient—sometimes you have to wait a while.
Cheap Flights
The best time to find cheap flights to Iceland is usually during the shoulder seasons: spring (April to May) and fall (September to October). You might even catch great sights like the Northern Lights or the midnight sun. If you’re planning a trip, be ready for quickly changing weather. Pack layers, even if you’re visiting in the summer.
Geothermal Pools
Tourists can go to Iceland’s geothermal pools all year round because they’re open regardless of season. However, the best time of year to visit Iceland for geothermal pools is winter (from November to March). This offers a unique experience because you can soak in warm water while surrounded by snow. On the other hand, summer (June to August) lets you enjoy the midnight sun and milder weather.
Iceland is famous for its geothermal activity, which means there are tons of hot springs and pools everywhere. You can find everything from natural hot springs in remote spots to relaxing spas. Some top picks include the Blue Lagoon, known for its milky-blue mineral-rich water; Seljavallalaug, one of Iceland’s oldest pools tucked away in a southern valley; and Krossneslaug, an infinity pool in the Westfjords with awesome ocean views.
When you visit, shower thoroughly without your swimsuit, bring your own towel, and remove silver jewelry to avoid tarnishing from sulfur-rich waters.
Blue Lagoon
The best time to visit Iceland’s Blue Lagoon is early in the morning or evening to avoid crowds. Going in September or early October is best to dodge the tourist rush when the weather is still nice but with fewer visitors.
The Blue Lagoon is a cool geothermal spa in a lava field in southwestern Iceland. Its milky-blue water is packed with silica, algae, and minerals, which are great for the skin. The lagoon was created in 1976 from wastewater from a nearby geothermal plant. Even though it’s man-made, it’s Iceland’s top attraction, drawing people worldwide to relax in its warm waters.
Book your tickets in advance if you plan to visit because they often sell out. It’s also a good idea to visit on your way to or from Keflavík International Airport (KEF) because it’s nearby. Bring a waterproof case for your phone if you want to take photos, as the humid air can harm your electronics.
Glacier Exploration
The best months to visit Iceland for glacier exploration are November to March. The ice caves are more stable and easier to reach during these winter months, showing off amazing blue ice formations. However, you can go glacier hiking any time of the year. Summer offers milder weather and longer days for more exploration.
Iceland is a glacier wonderland, with ice covering about 11% of its land. There are around 269 named glaciers, including ice caps, outlet glaciers, and mountain glaciers. Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, is one of Iceland’s top sights. Many glaciers are on top of volcanoes, constantly changing the landscape, which is why Iceland is called the “Land of Fire and Ice.”
Visitors can enjoy glacier hiking, ice cave tours, snowmobiling, and kayaking on glacier lagoons. The Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is where you can sail among icebergs and find seals. For safety, ensure to book tours with experienced guides.
Whale Watching
The best time to travel to Iceland for whale watching is from April to September, with June to August being the peak season. During these summer months, the waters are full of nutrients, making it a great time to spot different whale species.
Iceland has over 23 whale species, making it one of the top whale-watching spots in Europe. You might see humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, and harbor porpoises. If lucky, you could spot the giant blue whale, especially in the north. Húsavík, in North Iceland, is famous as the “whale-watching capital of Europe.”
Tours usually provide warm overalls or blankets, but dressing warmly is a good idea. Don’t forget a camera with a zoom lens to catch those amazing whale moments.
Puffin Watching
The best time to visit Iceland for puffin watching is during the summer, from May to August. Puffins come to Iceland in late April or early May and stick around until late August, and they’re most active in the evenings when they head back to their burrows after spending the day hunting at sea.
Iceland is a top spot for puffin watching, with over 60% of the world’s Atlantic puffin population. These birds are famous for their colorful beaks and clumsy behavior, so they’re often called the “clowns of the sea.” You can find puffins nesting in huge colonies on Iceland’s coastal cliffs and islands, like the Westman Islands, Látrabjarg cliffs in the Westfjords, Dyrhólaey in South Iceland, and Grímsey Island in the north.
Puffins are protected by law, so stay on marked paths and keep your distance to avoid disturbing them.
Scenic Road Trips
The best time to visit Iceland for a scenic road trip is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, you can enjoy long daylight hours, milder temperatures, and better road conditions to explore the country’s beautiful landscapes. The shoulder seasons of May and September are also ideal, with fewer crowds and possibly lower prices.
Iceland’s Ring Road, also called Route 1, is the most popular road trip route. It circles the island and connects major attractions such as Golden Circle, featuring Þingvellir National Park, Akureyri, the “Capital of the North” with charming streets and nearby natural wonders, and Mývatn, a shallow lake with unique landscapes, hot springs, and bird-watching opportunities.
When planning your Icelandic road trip, rent a suitable vehicle, preferably a 4×4, if you plan to explore beyond the main roads. Allow 7 to 10 days to comfortably drive the Ring Road and see the sights. Also, keep your gas tank full because gas stations can be far apart in rural areas.
Music Festivals
Iceland is famous for its music, and the best time to visit Iceland for music festivals in 2024 depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for.
Iceland Airwaves is one of Iceland’s most popular music festivals, which will be held from November 7 to 9, 2024, in Reykjavik. This festival is known for its mix of new and famous artists from Iceland and worldwide. The Reykjavik Jazz Festival at the Harpa Concert Hall, which will be held from August 27 to 31, 2024, showcases a variety of jazz styles and features both Icelandic and international artists.
Lastly, the Þjóðhátíð National Festival in the Westman Islands, from August 1 to 4, 2024, is a major cultural event that includes fireworks, bonfires, and communal singing and attracts large crowds from all over the country.
Visit Reykjavik
The best time to visit Reykjavik is during the summer, from June to August, when most attractions and activities are open and accessible. As Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik welcomes visitors to its Viking heritage and modern Nordic culture with its various museums, unique architecture, and local customs.
The National Museum of Iceland is a great place to start. It gives a detailed overview of Iceland’s history from the Viking Age to the present, with artifacts showing the life and culture of early Norse settlers. The Settlement Exhibition, built around a 10th-century longhouse, has interactive displays showcasing Viking architecture and daily life.
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Takeaway
The best times to visit Iceland are in the winter for chasing the Northern Lights, in the summer for the midnight sun, or during the shoulder seasons for smaller crowds and nice weather. There’s always a unique experience awaiting, like whale watching, spotting puffins, exploring glaciers, or soaking in hot geothermal pools.
If you want to score affordable deals on your trip, sign up on OneAir to access exclusive flight deals and hotel rates, saving you up to 60%. With OneAir, you can spend less on travel and more on experiencing Iceland’s attractions and activities.
