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Iceland

Exploring Iceland is an unforgettable experience that offers stunning natural landscapes and unique cultural experiences. Visitors can marvel at the country’s glaciers, waterfalls, hot springs, and volcanoes, all while enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and whale watching. Iceland is also rich in culture, with a vibrant music and art scene, as well as a strong literary tradition. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, Iceland has something for everyone to enjoy.

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What you’ll love most about Iceland

  • Take a guided tour to visit popular sights like the Golden Circle, which includes the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park
  • Rent a car or campervan and drive the Ring Road, which circles the entire country and offers access to many of Iceland’s most beautiful natural attractions
  • Hike on one of Iceland’s many trails, such as the Laugavegur Trail, which takes you through varied landscapes like mountains, hot springs, and glaciers
  • Soak in one of Iceland’s many hot springs, such as the famous Blue Lagoon, or one of the many more secluded hot springs dotted around the country
  • Go whale watching to see some of the many species of whales that call Iceland’s waters home
  • Visit Iceland’s many museums, such as the Viking Museum or the National Museum of Iceland, to learn about the country’s rich history and culture

Please note that the estimated temperature, rainfall and recommended months of when to go are based on Reykjavik’s weather patterns

 

  • Aurora borealis over Iceland

  • Vök Baths, east Iceland - Visit Iceland/Icelandic Explorer

  • Volcanic eruption, Eldingadalir - Visit Iceland/Garder Ølafs

  • Blue Lagoon Spa near Grindavk, Iceland

  • Whale watching in Hnúfurbakur, north Iceland - Visit Iceland/Icelandic Explorer

  • Basalt columns on Reynisfjara's Black Beach - Visit Iceland/Icelandic Explorer

  • Strokkure Hvita River, southwest Iceland

  • Reynisdrangar, south Iceland - Visit Iceland/Icelandic Explorer

  • Geo Sea, Húsavik - Visit Iceland/Icelandic Explorer

  • Landmannalaugar lava fields - Visit Iceland/Icelandic Explorer

  • Bolafjall, Westfjords - Visit Iceland/Icelandic Explorer

  • Kvernufoss waterfall - Visit Iceland/Icelandic Explorer

  • Landmannalaugar, Southern Highlands - Visit Iceland/Icelandic Explorer

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 3℃
  • 3℃
  • 4℃
  • 6℃
  • 10℃
  • 12℃
  • 14℃
  • 14℃
  • 11℃
  • 7℃
  • 4℃
  • 3℃
  • 19
  • 16
  • 18
  • 18
  • 21
  • 21
  • 21
  • 23
  • 23
  • 21
  • 20
  • 19

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

January in Iceland is winter at its finest. Temperatures in Reykjavik typically range between -1°C and 3°C, though it can feel colder with wind chill. Snow is common, and the days are very short, with only around 4-5 hours of daylight. This is a great time to experience the Northern Lights, with clear skies and long nights offering optimal viewing conditions. You can also enjoy winter activities like ice caving and glacier hiking. The Blue Lagoon is popular year-round, especially for a warm soak in the geothermal waters during the cold weather.

February

Temperatures remain cool in February, ranging from -2°C to 3°C in Reykjavik. The daylight hours gradually increase to about 7-8 hours, making it a good time for sightseeing. Winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding in places like Bláfjöll are popular, and the Northern Lights are still a highlight. February is also the month for Icelandic Winter Lights Festival in Reykjavik, showcasing art, culture, and vibrant illuminations that brighten up the dark winter days.

March

March sees temperatures ranging from -1°C to 4°C in Reykjavik. Daylight continues to increase, and by the end of the month, you’ll get about 10-12 hours of daylight. Spring starts to make its presence felt, but there’s still snow in the mountains, making it a perfect time for snowmobiling on glaciers. The Northern Lights can still be seen, and it's a great time to visit the Golden Circle and Þingvellir National Park before the peak tourist season begins.

April

In April, temperatures in Reykjavik range from 1°C to 6°C, but it's often windy. The snow begins to melt in the lowlands, and the days lengthen to around 13-14 hours. The midnight sun is just around the corner, and you can enjoy the first signs of spring. This is an excellent time to explore Thingvellir and the Gulfoss Waterfall, as the crowds are still relatively low. The Reykjavik Arts Festival takes place in April, showcasing a range of performances and exhibitions.

May

May is one of the best times to visit Iceland, with temperatures ranging from 4°C to 10°C in Reykjavik. Days get much longer, with up to 16-17 hours of daylight. This is a great time to experience the Midnight Sun. May is also when Iceland’s landscape begins to truly come alive. Flowers start blooming, and migratory birds like puffins return to the cliffs. A visit to the South Coast and the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is highly recommended at this time. The Icelandic Music Experiential Festival also takes place in May.

June

Temperatures in June range from 6°C to 12°C in Reykjavik, with the country enjoying nearly 24 hours of daylight in the far north. This is a perfect time for exploring Iceland’s famous Golden Circle, Thingvellir National Park, and Gullfoss Waterfall. You’ll have plenty of time to hike and enjoy outdoor activities like whale watching in Húsavík. The longer days and shorter nights allow for maximum exploration and photography opportunities, especially in remote regions.

July

July is the warmest month of the year in Iceland, with temperatures typically ranging from 9°C to 14°C. Days are long, with almost 24 hours of daylight in the north, making it ideal for exploring Iceland’s natural wonders. This is the prime season for visiting Lake Myvatn, hiking Landmannalaugar, and taking boat tours through the Glacier Lagoon. The Secret Solstice Festival takes place in Reykjavik, celebrating Iceland’s music, arts, and culture under the midnight sun.

August

August continues to offer warm temperatures ranging from 8°C to 14°C in Reykjavik. The days start to shorten, but there is still ample daylight for outdoor adventures. It’s a great time to visit the Westfjords, hike Mount Esja, or explore the volcanic landscapes in Thingvellir. August is also the month for the Reykjavik International Film Festival, which draws filmmakers and cinephiles to the capital. Whale watching remains popular, and the vibrant Icelandic Horse Festival in Holtavorduheidi is a unique cultural experience.

September

September sees temperatures drop slightly, ranging from 5°C to 11°C in Reykjavik, with days getting shorter (about 12-13 hours of daylight). This is the start of the shoulder season, with fewer tourists. It’s an excellent time to visit Iceland’s highlands, where you can enjoy hiking and glacier tours without the summer crowds. The Northern Lights start to become visible again, offering a fantastic opportunity to witness this natural phenomenon. It’s also a good time for visiting Akureyri and the surrounding nature.

October

Temperatures in October are between 2°C and 7°C in Reykjavik, and the days are shorter, with around 9-10 hours of daylight. Autumn brings beautiful colors to the landscape, and it’s a wonderful time to explore the Golden Circle and the South Coast. The Northern Lights are often visible during clear nights, especially in more remote areas. Icelandic Food Festival takes place in October, where you can taste traditional Icelandic dishes and experience the local food culture.

November

November is the start of winter, with temperatures ranging from -1°C to 4°C in Reykjavik. Snow begins to cover the mountains, and the days shorten to about 6-7 hours of daylight. November is an excellent time for winter sports like skiing at Bláfjöll or snowmobiling on glaciers. The Northern Lights are visible again, and you’ll find fewer tourists. This is a good month for a quiet winter retreat to Iceland’s hot springs, like the Blue Lagoon.

December

December is the heart of winter, with temperatures ranging between -2°C to 3°C in Reykjavik. The days are the shortest of the year, with only about 4-5 hours of daylight. This is a magical time to visit if you want to see the Northern Lights. You can also take part in Christmas markets in Reykjavik, which are beautifully lit and filled with local crafts and festive foods. December offers plenty of opportunities for winter adventures like glacier hikes, ice caving, and visiting the Vatnajökull National Park.

Our Ratings

  • Most Recommended
  • Recommended
  • Highly Recommended
  • Not Recommended

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Explore is a global adventure travel company with 40 years’ experience in providing exciting and authentic travel experiences. With over 350 trips in around 100 countries, Explore’s expertly crafted itineraries combined with award-winning tour leaders, small group sizes and a commitment to responsible travel ensure unforgettable travel experiences in extraordinary destinations.

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“At Just You, we’ve been crafting worldwide touring holidays specifically for solo travellers for over 20 years. There’s so much included in our tours: flights, accommodation (own rooms are guaranteed) and all breakfasts. We pack in amazing experiences, as well as free time to relax and explore. With expert Holiday Directors, we’re there for you throughout your trip.”

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Riviera Travel is the UK’s leading luxury river cruise & tour company with over 38 years’ experience in crafting worldwide tours, luxury river cruises, rail holidays and UK tours. Their commitment to quality & thoughtfulness has earned them a coveted Which? recommendation.

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