For many travellers, the summer is the best time to visit Iceland. From June to August the island experiences long days with almost 24 hours of daylight, creating abundant opportunities for adventure and outdoor activities. The weather is reasonably mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C on average, making it a great time of year for hiking, camping and road trips round the famous Ring Road.

One of the highlights of the summer in Iceland is the chance to experience the midnight sun. Imagine being able to hike at midnight or enjoy a late-night picnic under the golden glow of the sun – it’s a strange experience that you won’t soon forget! 

Summer is also the best time to visit Iceland for birdwatching, as millions of migratory birds flock to the island’s shores to breed during this season.

As summer turns into Autumn, Iceland transforms into a vibrant tapestry of colours as the leaves change and the landscapes take on a golden glow. September and October offer enjoyable weather (temperatures averaging between 2°C and 10°C) with fewer crowds compared with the peak summer months. 

It’s an excellent time for photographers to visit Iceland, as the soft lights and autumnal colours provide plenty of opportunities for capturing the dramatic landscapes. 

For those interested in experiencing Iceland’s unique culture, autumn is the season for festivals and events. From the Iceland Airwaves music festival to the Reykjavik International Film Festival, there’s no shortage of cultural activities to enjoy at this time of the year. Plus, with the nights growing longer, there’s a chance of catching the first sight of the spellbinding Northern Lights as they begin to make their first appearances.

Winter in Iceland is a wonderful time, with snow-covered landscapes, icy glaciers, and the possibility of seeing the awe-inspiring Northern Lights dancing across the night sky. While temperatures can drop below freezing (they range between -1°C and 3°C on average at this time of year), Iceland’s geothermal hot springs, such as the Blue Lagoon, provide the perfect remedy for staying toasty and cosy. 

For adventure seekers, winter is a great time to visit Iceland, and offers the opportunity to explore ice caves, go snowmobiling on glaciers, and soak in geothermal pools while surrounded by snow-covered scenery. It’s also the best time to experience Iceland’s unique Christmas traditions, from festive markets to traditional holiday foods such as smoked lamb and leaf bread.

As winter turns to spring, Iceland begins to come alive once again. March and April mark the end of the winter months with longer days and milder temperatures beginning to return (2°C to 5°C on average). It’s a great time to witness the island’s stunning waterfalls at their most impressive, as melting snow and ice feed into rivers and streams, creating forceful cascades. 

Spring is also the season of renewal, as Iceland’s flora begins to rouse from its winter slumber. Fields of vibrant wildflowers cover the countryside, and birdwatchers can spot migratory species returning to the island. Plus, with the arrival of spring, there’s still a chance to catch the Northern Lights before they disappear with the arrival of the midnight sun.

For more inspiration, take a look at our Iceland Holidays pages.