Best Time to Visit Iceland from India
The best time to visit Iceland is during the summer months of July and August. Iceland, the land of fire, ice, and the Midnight Sun offers unparalleled biodiversity while boasting an extremely low population density. Iceland is a land of contrasting landscapes with numerous hot springs and long treks to nearby mountain ranges.
However, Iceland’s winters are ruthless and generally span from September to April. The continuous snowfall during the winter months makes travelling across the country next to impossible.
Best Months/Seasons to Visit Iceland
Different seasons come with different opportunities, so determining the best season to visit becomes a mind-boggling task. The list given below will help you determine the best time to visit Iceland:
Month | Average Temperature | Description |
April to May (Spring Season) | 1 to 7 degrees Celsius | Springtime in Iceland is marked by melting snow, budding flora, and milder weather. Ideal for budget travellers, with fewer crowds and cheaper accommodations. Popular events during this time: First Day of Summer (Sumardagurinn fyrsti) (late April) and Reykjavík Arts Festival (May). |
June to August (Summer Season) | 10 to 15 degrees Celsius | The warmest season with long daylight hours, including the Midnight Sun. Perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, whale watching, and exploring highlands. Popular events during this time: Secret Solstice Festival (June) and Reykjavík Pride (August). |
September to October (Autumn Season) | 4 to 10 degrees Celsius | Autumn brings cooler weather and vibrant foliage. It is an excellent time for fewer crowds, Northern Lights viewing starts, and the weather is still relatively mild. Popular events during this time: Reykjavík International Film Festival (September) and Iceland Airwaves (October/November). |
November to March (Winter Season) | -1 to 3 degrees Celsius | Cold and snowy, with short daylight hours. Best for experiencing the Northern Lights, ice caves, and winter sports. Popular events during this time: Winter Lights Festival (February), Christmas and New Year Celebrations (December), and Þorrablót (January/February). |
April-May (Spring Season)
Spring in Iceland sees a gentle awakening of nature with longer daylight hours and a mix of melting snow and emerging greenery. This is an excellent time for budget travellers seeking fewer crowds and more affordable prices.
Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to Iceland:
Weather | Mild with occasional rain and cold spells |
Temperature | 1°C to 7°C |
Season | Moderate |
Season for Localities | First Day of Summer (Sumardagurinn fyrsti), Reykjavík Children's Culture Festival, Seafarer’s Day (early June) |
Key Highlights |
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June-August (Summer Season)
Summer in Iceland features the Midnight Sun, providing almost 24 hours of daylight, making it perfect for exploring the island’s extensive natural beauty. This is the peak tourist season, with ideal weather for outdoor activities.
Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to Iceland:
Weather | Warmest with long days and frequent sunshine |
Temperature | 10°C to 15°C |
Season | Peak |
Season for Localities | Secret Solstice Festival (June), Reykjavík Pride (August) |
Key Highlights |
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September-October (Autumn Season)
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and stunning fall colours. It's a quieter time for travel, with fewer tourists, and marks the start of the Northern Lights season as the nights grow longer.
Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to Iceland:
Weather | Cool with a mix of sunny and rainy days |
Temperature | 4°C to 10°C |
Season | Moderate |
Season for Localities | Reykjavík International Film Festival (September), Iceland Airwaves (October/November), Réttir (autumn sheep round-up) |
Key Highlights |
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November-March (Winter Season)
Winter in Iceland is characterised by cold, snowy weather and short daylight hours, creating a perfect setting for viewing the Northern Lights and exploring ice caves.
Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to Iceland:
Weather | Cold and snowy with long nights |
Temperature | -1°C to 3°C |
Season | Off |
Season for Localities | Winter Lights Festival (February), Christmas and New Year Celebrations (December), Þorrablót (January/February) |
Key Highlights |
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When to Avoid Visiting Iceland?
Although you can travel to Iceland at any time of the year, it is crucial to avoid the following months:
Months to Avoid | Reason |
November to March (Winter Season) |
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Seasonal Travel Costs of Visiting Iceland from India
Travelling to Iceland from India can vary significantly in cost depending on the season. Here’s a breakdown of average travel costs for each season:
Season | Average Flight Cost | Average Hotel Cost per Night | Description |
Spring (April-May) | ₹50,000 to ₹75,000 | ₹12,000 to ₹18,000 | Spring offers moderate travel costs with fewer crowds and milder weather, making it a good time for budget-conscious travellers. |
Summer (June-August) | ₹70,000 to ₹1,10,000 | ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 | Summer is the peak travel season with the highest prices due to the Midnight Sun and favourable weather for outdoor activities. |
Autumn (September-October) | ₹55,000 to ₹85,000 | ₹14,000 to ₹20,000 | Autumn sees a decrease in travel costs compared to summer. Fewer tourists make it easier to find accommodations and experience Iceland's culture and festivals. |
Winter (November-March) | ₹45,000 to ₹70,000 | ₹10,000 to ₹16,000 | Winter offers the lowest travel costs due to harsh weather conditions and limited daylight hours. |
Things to Know Before Visiting Iceland
Now that you have a tentative itinerary to plan your Iceland trip, check out some basic pointers to make your journey pleasant and hassle-free.
- Stock your backpack with enough thermals and winter wear before you visit Iceland.
- Expect sudden weather changes irrespective of the season.
- Book your flight tickets, accommodation and car rentals in advance.
- Consider taking sleep masks for days with long sunlight hours.
- Save money on your Iceland tours by booking an Airbnb or going camping.
Tips for Travelling in Iceland
Here are some tips and tricks you may consider following while planning an Iceland trip from India:
- Check all Iceland tour packages available online.
- Make necessary preparations for a cashless trip experience in Iceland.
- Waterproof shoes are a must, especially during the winter and springtime.
- Check the weather updates constantly and look for road closures.
- Tipping in Icelandic restaurants and hotels is not mandatory.
- Take note of the right-hand traffic rules in Iceland.
- Avoid driving in winter, especially if you have limited experience.
- Book four-wheel drive vehicles for travelling on mountains and near volcanoes.
- Research the places of visit along the Ring Road beforehand.
- Get a local mobile data package or rent a Wi-Fi hotspot.
- Avoid wasting money on bottled water; tap water is safe to drink in Iceland.
- All the famous landmarks, including waterfalls, glaciers and national parks, are free to enter.
- Do not forget to obtain a European type-C adapter.
What Phrases Should You Know Before Travelling to Iceland?
Learning the Icelandic language is not mandatory before planning a trip to Iceland from India. Most residents of Iceland understand English. However, knowing the basics of a new language is always profitable.
The Icelandic language belongs to the West Germanic language family and shares similarities with Norwegian and Faroese. Icelandic originates from the ancient Nordic language, whose western split developed into Norwegian and Icelandic. Some basic words and phrases include:
English | Icelandic |
Hello | Halló / Hæ |
Thank You | Takk / Takk fyrir / Þakka þér |
My name is | Ég heiti |
Excuse me | Afsakið / Fyrirgefðu |
You are welcome | Verði þér að góðu |
Nice to meet you | Gaman að kynnast þér |
How are you? | Hvernig hefur þú það? |
How much does it cost? | Hversu mikið kostar þetta? |
It was delicious | Hann var gómsætur |
The receipt, please | Kvittunina, takk |
Goodbye | Bless / Sjáumst |
Yes / No | Já / Nei |
I don't understand | Ég skil ekki |
Where is...? | Hvar er...? |
Help! | Hjálp! |
Can you speak English? | Geturðu talað ensku? |
Good morning | Góðan daginn |
Good night | Góða nótt |
How much is this? | Hvað kostar þetta? |
Do you have a menu in English? | Eruð þið með matseðil á ensku? |
0 | Núll |
1 | Einn |
2 | Tveir |
3 | Þrír |
4 | Fjórir |
5 | Fimm |
6 | Sex |
7 | Sjö |
8 | Átta |
9 | Níu |
10 | Tíu |
Please note that complicated long words are combinations of shorter words that make sense. Reykjavík, for example, is comprised of 'reykja,' meaning smoke, and 'vik,' meaning bay. Try listening to the word pronunciations before trying them.
Now that you know the best time to visit Iceland, waste no more time and schedule your trip. However, make sure you purchase travel insurance policies for medical emergencies, flight cancellations, and or luggage displacement. Iceland never fails to impress its tourists; however, try to be aware of the unpredictable weather changes while travelling in this beautiful country.
FAQs about Best Time to Visit Iceland
Is Iceland expensive to visit?
Yes, Iceland is generally expensive due to its remote location, limited resources, and high cost of living. Visitors should budget for higher accommodation, food, and transport costs than other destinations.
When to go to Reykjavík?
The best time to visit Reykjavík is during the summer months of June to August, when the weather is mild and the days are long, allowing for more exploration and outdoor activities.
Do Indians need a visa for Iceland?
Yes, Indian citizens need a visa to travel to Iceland. They must apply for a Schengen visa since Iceland is part of the Schengen Area.
Which month is there snow in Iceland?
Snow is most common in Iceland from November to April, with the heaviest snowfall typically occurring in December, January, and February.
Which month is good for Iceland?
The best months to visit Iceland are June to August for summer activities and from February to March for viewing the Northern Lights.
Why is Iceland worth visiting?
Iceland is worth visiting for its dramatic landscapes, including glaciers, volcanoes, geysers, and waterfalls. The unique natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures make it a must-see destination.
Is Reykjavík worth visiting?
Yes, Reykjavík is worth visiting for its vibrant culture, eclectic architecture, lively arts scene, and proximity to natural wonders, such as geothermal pools and volcanic landscapes.
Is Reykjavík hot or cold?
Reykjavík experiences mild summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures range from 10 to 15 °C, while winter temperatures range from -1 to 3 °C.
Is it safe to go to Reykjavík at night?
Yes, Reykjavík is generally very safe at night. Iceland is known for its low crime rate, but visitors should still exercise standard precautions.
Is Iceland good for nightlife?
Yes, Iceland, especially Reykjavík, has a vibrant nightlife with various bars, clubs, and live music venues. The capital is known for its lively weekend nightlife.
What is the speciality of Iceland?
Iceland is known for its stunning natural landscapes, unique geothermal activity, and traditional foods like skyr (a dairy product) and hákarl (fermented shark).
What is the most visited place in Iceland?
The most visited places in Iceland include the Golden Circle, which features Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area.
What is the prettiest place in Iceland?
Many consider the Jökulsárlon Glacier Lagoon one of Iceland's prettiest places, known for its striking blue icebergs and serene atmosphere.
What to buy from Reykjavík?
Popular items to buy in Reykjavík include Icelandic wool sweaters (lopapeysa), local crafts, volcanic rock jewellery, and Icelandic sea salt.
What foods is Iceland famous for?
Iceland is famous for skyr, lamb stew, plokkfiskur (fish stew), and kleina (twisted doughnut).
What are 5 facts about Iceland?
Following are five facts about Iceland:
- Iceland is home to the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajokull.
- The country uses nearly 100% renewable energy, primarily from geothermal and hydroelectric sources.
- Iceland is one of the world's most sparsely populated countries, with a population density of about three people per square kilometre.
- The Icelandic language has remained relatively unchanged since mediaeval times.
- Iceland does not have a standing army; it relies on a small coast guard for defence.
Is Iceland good for shopping?
Yes, Iceland offers unique shopping experiences, particularly in Reykjavík, focusing on locally made crafts, designer goods, and traditional Icelandic products.
What is the Midnight Sun, and when can you experience it in Iceland?
The Midnight Sun occurs from mid-May to late July, when the sun remains visible for almost 24 hours a day, providing extended daylight for exploring Iceland's natural wonders.
When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?
The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is from late September to early April, with the peak viewing months being February and March.
What are the benefits of visiting Iceland in the shoulder seasons?
Visiting Iceland in the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October offers fewer crowds, lower prices, and a chance to experience changing landscapes and seasonal wildlife.
Is summer a good time to visit Iceland for hiking?
Yes, summer is ideal for hiking in Iceland, with accessible trails, mild weather, and opportunities to explore the highlands and famous routes like the Laugavegur Trek.
When is whale watching season in Iceland?
Whale watching season in Iceland runs from April to October, with peak sightings of humpback whales, minke whales, and orcas from June to August.
What is the weather in Iceland during summer?
Summer in Iceland (June to August) is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 15°C, and it is the driest season, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
Can you visit ice caves in Iceland during summer?
No, most ice caves are inaccessible during summer due to melting. The best time to visit ice caves in Iceland is from November to March when they are stable and safe.
What are the advantages of visiting Iceland in winter?
Visiting Iceland in winter offers unique experiences such as seeing the Northern Lights, exploring ice caves, enjoying snow-covered landscapes, and partaking in festive events like Christmas and New Year's celebrations.
How long are the days in Iceland during winter?
In winter, particularly around the solstice in late December, daylight in Iceland is limited to 4-5 hours per day, with long twilight periods.
Is spring a good time to go birdwatching in Iceland?
Yes, spring is excellent for birdwatching in Iceland, especially from late April to early June, when migratory birds, including puffins and Arctic terns, return to breed.
Are there any festivals in Iceland during summer?
Yes, Iceland hosts several summer festivals, including the Reykjavík Arts Festival in May, the Secret Solstice Music Festival in June, and the Reykjavík Pride in August.
When is the best time for photography in Iceland?
The best time for photography in Iceland is during the summer for vibrant landscapes and midnight sun or winter for dramatic light conditions and the Northern Lights.
Is autumn a good time for budget travellers to visit Iceland?
Yes, autumn (September to October) is a good time for budget travellers, with lower prices for flights and accommodation and fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed experience.