Visiting Iceland in Different Seasons
Regardless of the time of year, Iceland has so many stunning sights and exciting things to do. Whether it's seeing the northern lights in the winter or puffins and a sky that doesn't get dark in the summer, you will not be disappointed! Make sure to research all this island has to offer so you can see as much as possible when you plan your trip to visit Iceland.
Visiting in Spring
Spring is a wonderful time to visit Iceland! Mid-April is when studded tires get taken off of cars, mountain snow begins to melt, days get longer, and Icelanders are excited that the long winter nights are over. Although crowds are usually not a problem any time of year, spring has even fewer tourists, as tourist season has not yet begun.
Visiting in Summer
Summer in Iceland is the time to really explore! It is light outside nearly 24 hours a day, roads that are seasonally closed are now available for those with a rugged 4WD vehicle and an adventurous spirit! For everyone with "regular" vehicles, this is the best time of year to drive around the island. Remember this is still Iceland and temperatures rarely get "warm". Even in the middle of summer, bring layers and be sure to include gloves, hats and definitely waterproof hiking boots when you pack! You might need eye covers to help you slep through the daylight night, although most lodging has room darkening blinds
Visiting in Winter
Winter in Iceland is a different experience. We went to celebrate New Years and primarily stayed in Reykjavik. It truly is dark most of the time, with the sun not "rising" until around 10:30 and "setting" around 2:30pm. In the middle of winter, the sun isn't exactly visible and doesn't peek over the horizon. It just provides an evening pinkish dusk light for a few hours. Bring your winter clothes and if you plan on walking city streets, metal spiked crampons attached to your boots are advisable; the sidewalks are not salted and can be extremely slippery! New Years' celebrations were a fantastic way to ring in 2024!