There is no “wrong” time of year to visit Iceland!
The summer brings the Midnight Sun, whale watching and cute puffins. When winter comes, the Northern Lights arrive as well, along with stunning snow-capped scenery and ice cave tours.
Iceland’s cinematic landscapes are ever-changing during the spring and autumn months, making Iceland an all-year-round attraction and a photographer’s paradise.
While the weather in Iceland is generally milder than other places on similar latitudes, like Canada or Russia, it’s also much more unpredictable.
Positioned right in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the weather in Iceland features frequent storms and strong winds whipping in from the sea.
When cold air from the Arctic mixes with the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, that triggers rapid changes in the weather. Temperatures, wind, cloud cover and visibility can change in minutes.
Your guided tour may start in bright sunshine and clear skies, but there’s always a chance of a sudden downpour, icy fog, a blizzard or an Atlantic storm! And the wind-chill factor can make a big difference to how the outdoor temperature feels to you.
That’s why there’s another well-known Icelandic saying: “If you don’t like the weather in Iceland, then just wait five minutes!”
The first month of the year is one of the coldest in Iceland. It brings long nights, which means it’s a great time for seeing the Northern Lights. There’ll be lots of wind, snow and frost, and you’ll need to wrap up warm. The sun will be low in the sky, so bring your sunglasses too.
-2°C to 2°C (28F to 36F)
DAYLIGHT5 HOURS
Winter is still in control, and that means snow, sleet, and rain showers are likely. Daylight hours are increasing again, giving more time for exploring outside the capital. Keep that waterproof coat ready!
-2°C to 2°C (28F to 36F)
DAYLIGHT8 HOURS
March is one of the best months to visit Iceland because strong aurora displays are still visible, while the ice caves are still open. Daylight hours are quickly increasing too, but it will still be very windy at times.
-1°C to 3°C (30F to 38F)
DAYLIGHT12 HOURS
If there is a “spring” in Iceland, it happens in April. The winter snows are beginning to thaw, revealing fresh green grass and spring flowers. Migrating birds are beginning to return, along with whales and dolphins.
1°C to 6°C (34F to 43F)
DAYLIGHT16 HOURS
Summer has arrived, which means you’ll see lambs and calves bouncing around as we pass by the roadside farms, with countless purple lupins brightening the scene. Daylight now lasts for up to 18 hours.
4°C to 9°C (40F to 48F)
DAYLIGHT18 HOURS
June and July are known as the time of the “Midnight Sun” when there are endless daylight hours and warmer days for you to explore Iceland’s treasures at your leisure. Even though rainfall is at its lowest, remember to pack your waterproofs!
8°C to 12°C (46F to 54F)
DAYLIGHT21 HOURS
As well as basking in non-stop daylight, July is usually the warmest month of the year. It’s the best time to go whale watching, horseback riding, hiking or even sunbathing (yes! sun is strong enough) when taking a soak in hot springs.
9°C to 14°C (49F to 57F)
DAYLIGHT19 HOURS
The Icelandic summer is short, and August sees temperatures and daylight hours reducing again. That means you’ll need to have warm layers and thicker coats ready to pull on if it gets chilly. The puffins and some whales will be departing too.
8°C to 13°C (47F to 55F)
DAYLIGHT16 HOURS
The Gulf Stream helps to warm the weather in Iceland, holding winter back for a little longer. September is one of the rainiest months of the year, so you’ll need your waterproofs and sturdy shoes.
6°C to 10°C (42F to 50F)
DAYLIGHT13 HOURS
The leaves fall, the nights are drawing in, and there is more wind and rain. But the Northern Lights are becoming more visible at this time of year, so make sure you keep an eye out for this magical sight.
2°C to 7°C (36F to 44F)
DAYLIGHT9 HOURS
November is one of the more unpredictable months for the weather in Iceland, with fewer daylight hours. The temperatures are dropping, and the winds pick up too, so make sure that you have hats, gloves and scarves ready.
-1°C to 4°C (30F to 39F)
DAYLIGHT6 HOURS
The days are shorter and darker, but that means a much better chance to see the Northern Lights in the dark of Iceland’s long winter nights. Snowfalls will increase, and Iceland will soon become a winter wonderland.
-2°C to 2°C (29F to 36F)
DAYLIGHT4 HOURS
We hope this guide helps you understand how to prepare for the tour, whatever time of year you visit.
Have Questions? We will be happy to assist you!
+354 419 0100 | nicetravel@nicetravel.is
NICETRAVEL was founded by three Icelandic families with the aim of helping visitors to Iceland to enjoy a nice and enjoyable experience
All our services are of course fully licensed by the appropriate Icelandic authorities
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