iceland tours in april

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ICELAND TOURS IN APRIL

Experience the quieter side of Iceland by visiting in April. You’ll benefit from lighter traffic on the Ring Road, fewer visitors at major attractions, and the chance to go northern lights hunting. Enjoy a winter getaway in Iceland with a tour designed by the local experts at Nordic Visitor.

VISITING ICELAND IN APRIL

Considering a tour of Iceland in April? Then you’ve come to the right place!

Travelling to Iceland in April lets you experience the quieter side of the country. As it’s the end of winter and night skies are still dark, you could see the aurora borealis on a northern lights tour .

Our Reykjavík-based Iceland experts will customise your itinerary to suit you. You could explore Iceland on a small group tour or drive around the Ring Road on a self-drive adventure . You might want to enjoy a privately guided trip or choose a multi-day tour .

Plus, when you book a trip to Iceland with Nordic Visitor, you get hand-picked accommodation, transportation reservations, daily breakfast and access to our 24/7 helpline. 

Get in touch  with us and we'll happily plan your perfect Iceland adventure. You can reach us via our toll-free numbers, contact form or LiveChat.

— WHY US?

Why book with nordic visitor.

• Hassle-free & seamless travel experience
• Flexible & customisable tour options
• Value for your money
• Professional service from local experts
• 24/7 emergency helpline during tour

Explore at your own pace with a car

Drive the Ring Road with peace of mind. We recommend these Iceland self-drive tours, designed specially for winter.

South Iceland at Leisure

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See northern lights and more in Iceland with new friends and a local guide on one of these small group tours.

Natural Wonders of Iceland

The ring road & snæfellsnes.

Scenic South Iceland

Geysers, volcanoes & glacier lagoon, natural wonders of iceland - winter, best of south & west iceland - winter, golden circle & snæfellsnes, enjoy a city break with day tours.

Spend your nights in Reykjavik and your days visiting major attractions. Check out these multi-day tours.

Best of South Iceland

Golden circle, south coast & blue lagoon, best of south & north iceland, golden circle, south coast & mývatn, classic south coast, golden circle classic, golden circle & blue lagoon, active iceland, snowmobiling, ice tunnel & golden circle, golden circle express, travel with your own local guide.

Experience Iceland’s winter beauty and unique culture on your terms with one of these privately guided tours.

Northern Lights Circle Tour - Private

1217702 ISK

Winter Highlights - Private

Iceland luxury escape - winter, northern lights, south iceland & blue lagoon retreat.

1794264 ISK

South & West Iceland Classic Winter - Private

1220182 ISK

Local travel agency

As a travel agency with offices in Reykjavík, Edinburgh, Stockholm and Lucerne, Nordic Visitor knows how to make the most of your time in Europe. Choose from a variety of carefully curated tours that include must-see attractions as well as lesser-known highlights.

You can also make customisations to your itinerary by adding extra nights, optional activities, or upgrades to your tour. Or ask your personal travel consultant for advice and they will tailor your itinerary. This way you get a travel experience that is perfectly suited to you. 

Your dedicated travel consultant will arrange all the local details for you. You get accommodation, activities, transport, and other services included in your package. If you need to rework your itinerary, we’ll handle it for you so you can relax and look forward to your getaway.

Different ways you can experience Iceland

We have tours for all varieties of travel styles and interests. See our options for exploring Iceland below.

Guided Small Groups

Multi-day tours, privately guided, self-drive winter, best seller, what do our customers say.

The reviews speak for themselves. See what Nordic Visitor travellers said about their experience with us.

Thank you for the memories!

From the time we booked with Zachary until the day we left everything was great! He kept us informed until we left for the trip. When we arrived all the materials were waiting for us along with the ride from the airport. All the maps and information were excellent! He even marked some special things to see and do. That was our first time using Nordic Visitor and they did an amazing job with everything. You helped make this trip so memorable! We will definitely tell everyone to use Nordic Visitor for all their trips. Thank you for the memories!

5-star experience

Not only did we absolutely love every stop on the Scenic South Iceland tour, but prior to the tour we stayed for 4 days in Reykjavík. I appreciated Nordic Visitor's recommendations for things to do and places to eat there and felt highly supported by Marko, our travel consultant, in every regard to booking our flight and own hotel, day trips I was interested in, and taking public transport around. A definite 5-star experience!

Excellent planning from Nordic Visitor

Iceland is a breathtakingly beautiful country with a new, gorgeous view of nature around every corner. We were able to enjoy each part of it without any worry about transportation or accommodation due to Nordic Visitor's excellent planning skills. We would enthusiastically recommend Nordic Visitor to all our family and friends.

A trip of a lifetime

We booked the Natural Wonders of Iceland tour and had a trip of a lifetime. From start to finish everything was seamless. Our travel consultant was always quick in responding to inquiries, even on our last day when we needed to change our airport transfer. Our guide Havar really did elevate our tour to the next level. I don't think we could have asked for a better guide to show us Iceland.  His pride in his country was evident and his communication skills were excellent. 

Highly recommend Nordic Visitor

The planned trip, accommodation and guide were just perfect! Iceland is a beautiful country, with a working geyser, many gorgeous waterfalls, whales, puffins and just breathtaking scenery. Nordic Visitor's itinerary gave us a wonderful taste of the country and their choice of guide could not have been better! We would highly recommend Nordic Visitor for anyone planning to visit Iceland.

We will remember this forever

The itinerary was very well organised. We seamlessly traversed through the countryside, moving from geological wonder to add-on excursions. Every hotel chosen was excellent and the included breakfasts were legendary. It was an amazing journey that we will remember forever. I would highly recommend Nordic Visitor to everyone interested in a trip to Iceland.

Fantastic from start to finish

We did a 5-day tour which included the south coast tour, the Golden Circle tour, northern lights tour, Flyover experience, Blue Lagoon and Reykjavík city walk. This was a trip I have wanted to do for a while and it didn't disappoint. Nordic Visitor gave me advice on the best month to visit and they were spot on. The weather was good, we were lucky enough to see the northern lights and the tours were not too busy. The tour guides were excellent, full of information and they all seem to love their jobs. This trip was fantastic from start to finish. Thank you Nordic Visitor.

Great experience for our teens

We really enjoyed getting off the main road and away from the crowd. Our teenagers got a really great first international trip experience.

Well-organised arrangements

All the arrangements were well-organised and coordinated. The guides were knowledgeable and were clearly interested and invested in their roles. I loved the relaxed and calm demeanour they displayed. Transfers to and from airport were on time and our drivers willingly conversed about many topics about Iceland. Accommodation was impressive, easy to access and check-in to.

Truly a trip of a lifetime

Visiting Iceland was on our bucket list and Nordic Visitor made it one of our top trips we have ever been on. We loved having a guide to answer questions and give us information of places that we were visiting. Our tour guide, Sigi, took us to places that were more out of the way and we would not have been able to experience them if we just would have used a tour book. It was so relaxing to be dropped off at sights and then picked up. This was truly a trip of a lifetime thanks to the planning, accommodation and tour guide. Would recommend to everyone!

We had a blast

Seamless service. The agent we had was very prompt and thorough. Very meticulous in planning the private guided tour for 12 people. Everything was perfect. We had a blast.

Every day was wow!

This trip was beyond my expectations. Every day was wow! Our guide was very personable and answered all our questions. Accommodation was all good and I felt like I got a real feel for the country. I would definitely recommend this company to anyone who wants to visit Iceland.

Getting to Iceland

All of Nordic Visitor’s tours of Iceland begin in Reykjavík, the capital. Keflavik International Airport is the gateway for international air travel in Iceland and is served by dozens of airlines. Furthermore, the airport serves as a hub for Icelandair’s transatlantic flights.

The following airlines fly to Keflavik International Airport (KEF) year-round: Icelandair, SAS, KLM, Norwegian, British Airways, EasyJet, Wizz Air and Finnair. Other airlines offer seasonal flights to KEF, including Delta, United Airlines, Air Canada and Lufthansa.

We recommend checking airline websites directly for flight availability and timetables. You can also use an airfare search engine, such as Skyscanner, Dohop or Kayak, for example.

Flights are not included in Nordic Visitor packages. However, all of our itineraries can be customised with extra nights in Reykjavík if you’d like to rest up after your flight.

Travel Guide

Be prepared for just about anything on your Icelandic adventure.

What to pack

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Climate & weather conditions

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Winter driving in Iceland

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Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Enjoy the slow & stunning drift of azure icebergs ..

Mýrdalsjökull Glacier

A majestic ice cap along the south coast

An idyllic seaside paradise

Blue Lagoon

Relax in this wonderful man made lagoon

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ICELAND IN APRIL

Depending on what you want to see and where you want to go, April might be the perfect month for your holiday to Iceland . Read on to find out more with these answers to commonly asked questions about visiting Iceland in April.

How is Iceland in April?

As it is still winter in April, there's lighter traffic for driving, fewer visitors at the famous sites, and more availability of accommodation around the country. The high season (summer months) hasn’t started so there are fewer cars on the road, yet many top sites stay open.

There’s another benefit to visiting Iceland in April. Thanks to the balanced daylight and darkness hours, you’ll be able to combine sightseeing in the daytime with hunting for the northern lights at night. This means you can really maximise each day of your trip and do as much as possible.

What are the best things to do in Iceland in April?

Take your pick from a variety of fun things to do in Iceland in April. Since there are fewer travellers to Iceland at this time, you’ll find that certain tours have better availability, giving you greater flexibility with your itinerary.

Here are 10 of the best things to do in Iceland in April:

• Drive along the Ring Road
• Discover the famous Golden Circle
• Marvel at waterfalls
• Hunt for the northern lights
• Dip in hot springs and poolss
• Venture along the Snæfellsnes peninsula
• See geothermal wonders and volcanoes
• Go horse riding or on a whale watching tour
• Walk along unusual beaches
• Admire glacier lagoons

Cultural events in April Iceland offers a range of cultural experiences in April.

Travelling as a family? Then don’t miss the Children’s Culture Festival in Reykjavík. Go along to workshops, exhibitions and activities that allow you to learn new skills together.

If you love music then you might want to consider heading to the Westfjords in April. I Never Went South is a music festival that’s held on the Easter weekend in the town of Ísafjörður, where Icelandic musicians perform for free.

Another notable event in April in Iceland is the First Day of Summer. This national holiday dates back to the Viking era, taking place on the first Thursday after April 18th. You may see locals out in parades, waving the Icelandic flag and playing music.

And, although it’s not a cultural event but a sportive one, the AK Extreme snowboarding festival is held every April in Akureyri. You can watch the experts carve down the slopes and catch some live music too.

Good to know: If you’re unsure about what you want to do in Iceland, don’t worry. Our Iceland experts are based in Reykjavík and know the country inside out. They’ll help you see Iceland your way, tailoring your itinerary by adding all the best excursions and experiences to suit you.

• Explore Iceland winter packages  to start planning your April trip
• Not sure what to do on your April tour? Check out the best things to do in Iceland

What are the best places to visit in Iceland in April?

The best places to visit in Iceland in April include waterfalls, hot springs, geothermal sites, glaciers and more. If you’re coming to chase the northern lights, head to remote locations where there is less light pollution. There are evening tours that can take you there from the capital, Reykjavík.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Iceland in April:

• Explore the lively capital, Reykjavík
• Drive or join a day tour of the Golden Circle route, including the Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir hot springs area and Þingvellir National Park
• Visit the village of Vík to see the interesting rock formations of Dyrhólaey
• Watch icebergs bobbing on the Jökulsárlón   glacier lagoon
• Discover the lunar landscapes of the Lake Mývatn , area
• See the “Capital of North Iceland”, Akureyri
• Roam around the Snæfellsjökull National Park
• Venture “into the glacier” at Langjökull

To keep occupied whilst in the capital, you may want to explore some of these fun indoor attractions too:

• Learn about volcanoes at the Lava Centre
• Try a flight simulation experience with FlyOver Iceland
• Experience earthquakes and visit the planetarium at Perlan

Where you go in Iceland depends on how much time you have to spend. If you are only staying for a few days, your best bet is to explore Reykjavík and the surroundings.

Want to spend a week or longer in Iceland in April? Then you’ll have time to journey around the country in a full circle to reach its many beautiful corners. As well as the southern and western regions, you can explore the east and north of Iceland too.

• Want more inspiration on where to go in April? Take a look at the 10 best places to visit in Iceland
• See the top sights on one of these best-seller Iceland tours

What is the weather like in Iceland in April?

April is the beginning of spring in Iceland. On average there are highs of 7°C (45°F) and lows of 3°C (37°F). There may be rainy days during your Iceland holiday in April, with an average of 20mm of rainfall.

The weather in Iceland is unpredictable, so prepare for sun, wind and rain if you’re planning a trip for April!

What is the temperature in April in Iceland?

In Reykjavík and Akureyri, the average temperature in April is 5°C (41°F). Generally Iceland experiences highs of 7°C (45°F) and lows of 3°C (37°F) in April.

Does it snow in Iceland in April?

It does snow in Iceland in April, predominantly in the countryside. Rarely does it settle at lower altitudes in April, but nothing is out of the question when it comes to weather in Iceland!

• Find out more about Iceland’s climate with this weather guide
• Not sure when to go to Iceland? Read our ultimate guide to the best times to visit

What are the driving conditions in Iceland in April?

A road trip in Iceland in April has its advantages. As it’s not yet summer, there's lighter traffic for driving around the Ring Road. This is one of the great things about exploring Iceland in the shoulder season – fewer visitors!

Since the weather is changeable in Iceland, it is important to come prepared for winter driving. Make yourself aware of road safety precautions before you travel. For example you must drive slowly in cold weather to avoid unseen ice, and turn your headlights on, day and night.

During your trip check weather and road conditions regularly. For your peace of mind, our team is on hand 24/7 should you need to get in touch at any point.

When you book a self-drive tour with Nordic Visitor , your car rental comes with collision damage waiver, unlimited in-car Wi-Fi, and a hand-marked map of your route. You also get two named drivers on the insurance policy so you can share the driving with a travel companion.

• Browse winter self-drive tours in Iceland
• Prepare for winter driving in Iceland with this guide

What to pack for a trip to Iceland in April?

Iceland is famous for its ever-changing weather, so we advise that you be as prepared as possible. Since April falls at the end of winter, we recommend bringing warm layers to be ready for the cooler temperatures. That way you can enjoy the natural beauty of the country regardless of the weather.

Here is a list of packing essentials for your Iceland trip in April:

• An insulated and waterproof jacket
• Fleece jumpers
• Lightweight wool underlayers
• Waterproof or winter trousers
• Thermal underwear and socks

As well as these essentials, be sure to bring good sturdy walking or hiking boots depending on what activities you may want to enjoy. Also, if you’re keen to experience the famous Blue Lagoon, remember to pack your swimwear and sandals.

What to wear in Iceland in April?

Icelanders have a saying: “There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing.”

In April you can expect cold weather. For that reason, you should dress with warm layers to be ready for anything. That way you can enjoy the beautiful sights without worrying about the temperatures and conditions.

Make sure to be dressed with an insulated winter jacket and warm under layers, as well as good sturdy boots.

What are the daylight hours in Iceland in April?

The hours of daylight in Iceland vary significantly from the beginning to the end of April. You can expect between 13 and 14 hours of daylight in the first few days in April, and 17 hours at the end of the month.

On 1 April in Reykjavík, the sun rises at approximately 6:44 AM and sets at around 8:20 PM. In Akureyri the sun rises at 6:25 AM, and sets at 8:08 PM.

By the end of April, there are more daylight hours in Iceland . In Reykjavík the sunrise takes place at about 4:58 AM and sunset at 9:53 PM. In Akureyri the sunrise occurs at around 4:30 AM and sunset at 9:50 PM.

Can I see the northern lights in Iceland in April?

Yes, it is possible to see the northern lights in April. In order to spot the colours of the aurora borealis, you need a clear dark sky. In winter the nights are longer and darker than in summer. That’s why the best time to visit Iceland for northern lights tours is between October and April.

Due to the unpredictable nature of the northern lights, we unfortunately cannot promise you will see them on our tours. But the aurora is a natural marvel that continues to inspire awe and delight, and is definitely worth putting on your Iceland travel wish list.

• Hunt for the aurora borealis on these Iceland northern lights tours
• Read this guide to the best times and places to see the northern lights in Iceland

How to tour Iceland in April?

There are various ways to travel on your Iceland tour in April. Depending on your personal tastes and requirements, you could either go for a guided or self-guided vacation.

Road trips in April For a self-guided journey through Iceland, you could opt for a road trip adventure. There are many self-drive tour routes to choose from in April. For shorter stays we recommend driving the Golden Circle in South Iceland or exploring the Snæfellsnes peninsula in the West.

If you have a week or more to spend in Iceland, drive around the Ring Road for a full loop of the country. This way you can visit virtually all the stunning corners of Iceland in one trip!

• View Iceland self-drive tour packages to start planning your road trip
• Find out how long it takes to drive around Iceland

Multi-day tours in April Another way to see Iceland on an independent tour is to base yourself in one or two locations, such as Reykjavík and Akureyri. You can then explore Iceland’s highlights on day trips.

A multi-day tour of Iceland is a great way to combine solo travel with guided excursions. You can fill your itinerary with as many tour-led activities as you wish!

• View multi-day guided tour packages to Iceland
• Discover the best Iceland tours to add to your itinerary with this guide

Privately guided tours in April On the other hand, you might prefer to be accompanied by a local expert throughout your Iceland experience. If so we recommend opting for a privately guided tour to have your own personal guide show you the best attractions. This is one of the most exclusive ways to see Iceland.

• View privately guided tour packages to Iceland
• Read this guide to the best things to do in Iceland on your private tour

Small group tours in April Or you could discover Iceland with like-minded visitors as part of a small group tour . You’ll get to meet people from around the world and learn from the expertise of a local guide, who will show you the most beautiful and fascinating parts of Iceland.

Our small group tours of Iceland in April take you to various locations in the country. You could visit the popular south coast or travel around the Ring Road for an in-depth tour.

• View guided small group tours to Iceland
• Read our top Iceland travel tips for more expert advice

Good to know: Whichever of these travel styles you choose, you’ll get all the signature Nordic Visitor benefits. These include access to our 24/7 helpline, a detailed personal itinerary, helpful travel guide and daily breakfast.

Nordic Visitor will book all your accommodation, and you can add extra nights and activities to your itinerary too.

• Find out more about visiting Iceland earlier, in January , February or March
• Or visit Iceland later, in May , June or July

— OTHER DESTINATIONS

See more of northern europe.

• Love the idea of a road trip? Venture to Scotland and Ireland
• Like stunning landscapes and Viking history? Discover Scandinavia
• Love winter scenery? Head to snowy Lapland
• Keen to go off the beaten track? Explore wild Greenland  and Svalbard

Our services

Whether you choose a guided tour or a self-drive vacation, all customers receive personalised service with a designated travel consultant , tailor-made quality travel documents, and our self-drive clients receive a hand-marked map that outlines their route, overnight stays and highlights along the way. Furthermore, Nordic Visitor has long-standing professional relationships with local tour operators , which are carefully selected by our staff and are recognized for consistent, quality service.

Book with confidence

• Protect your money & plans with our  flexible booking terms    .
• Get peace of mind with a 24/7 helpline during your stay.
• Enjoy personal service from Iceland-based travel experts.
• We’re here for you in case of unforeseen circumstances.
• 97% of customers say they’d recommend us to friends.
• As a local agency, we work closely with trusted suppliers.
• We’re a fully licensed and insured company in Iceland.

Whether you have queries about our tours or want to add activities to existing bookings, we’re here to help. Get in touch with our friendly team for any of your travel questions.

Our Icelandic phone number is +354 578 20 80

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

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Top 10 experiences to have in iceland, what to wear in iceland : your guide, driving iceland's ring road: all you need to know, in brief: spending a day in reykjavík.

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.

• Things to do

Iceland in April 2024: Things to See & Do

7 minute read

By Camila Contreras-Langlois

12 February 2024

Come spend April in Iceland for an unforgettable vacation! Picture yourself walking along glacier lagoons, visiting remote corners of Iceland, and joining in local celebrations.

April marks a transition from winter to summer, meaning you’ll get to enjoy some of the benefits of both. It’s an excellent time to travel off peak and see the country changing from snowy blankets to blooming flowers.

Below you’ll find the best things to see in Iceland in April, the best activities to try, and spots to visit. We’ve also added a handy weather and packing guide to help you prepare for this trip.

• Browse Iceland winter vacation packages .
• Or look up summer trips to Iceland .

Should you visit Iceland in April?

The one-word answer is: yes! The longer answer is this whole blog where we share with you just what makes April in Iceland so special.

As a quick summary, Iceland is a country that is worth seeing in all its splendor, winter and summer alike. Visit at this time of year and you might get the best of both worlds – all dependent on the weather of course!

But April is a very changeable month, so you might experience it all in one day anyway.

It might still snow at higher altitudes, but flowers start to bring color to the lava fields and mossy landscape. With a good balance of daylight and darkness, it’s a great month to maximize your trip. Go on thrilling adventures during the day and spend your nights chasing the Northern Lights .

As the conditions start to get better after the winter, it’s also a great time to visit Iceland on a road trip. With fewer visitors before the summer vacations, you’ll have more attractions to yourself and there’ll be less traffic on the roads.

And these are just some of the reasons why visiting Iceland in April is a good idea. Keep reading for more.

• Travel to Iceland in March for more of a winter vacation.
• Or visit in May to experience summer in Iceland.

Top things to do in Iceland in April

What can you get up to if you visit in April? Iceland is a jaw-dropping country overflowing with natural gems to explore and offering so many unique activities for you to try.

Here are some of our favorite things:

• Catch sight of icicles or rainbows at waterfalls
• Warm up in a geothermal spa
• See bubbling hot springs and geysers
• Try a new-to-you activity like exploring ice caves or glacier walking
• Admire vast glaciers and bobbing icebergs
• Drive around the Ring Road to see highlights and hidden gems
• See or even go inside a volcano

And much more is available, depending on what interests you most. You could go for fun seaside walks, visit museums in Reykjavík , bathe in natural hot springs, or go snowmobiling in the pristine, glacier snow.

• Check out what kind of Iceland activities and day excursions , like whale watching tours, you could add to your itinerary.
• Blog: 13 Awesome Things to Do in Iceland .

Events in Iceland in April

There are a few cultural experiences you might want to join in during your vacation in Iceland.

Iceland’s cultural life in April revolves around the First Day of Summer (‘sumardagurinn fyrsti’). It takes place on the first Thursday following 18 April. This national day is celebrated around the country and is based on a Viking tradition.

Back in the day, this was the start of the longer days of summer when the calendar looked a bit different. It’s similar to today’s spring equinox. Locals will be off work and you might see parades, people waving flags, and musicians playing in the streets.

• See what other events take place around Iceland throughout the year with our events and festival calendar .

Just to highlight it’s not quite summer yet, the AK Extreme snowboarding festival is also held every April. This one is hosted in North Iceland.

If you enjoy music, then consider including the Westfjords in your April itinerary of Iceland. The music festival I Never Went South is held over Easter weekend in the fjords’ main settlement, Ísafjörður.

Those traveling with kids may want to pop by the Children’s Culture Festival in Reykjavík. It’s a fun way to entertain the little ones. There are usually exhibitions and activities for a range of ages.

Best places to visit in Iceland in April

Where you go during your April visit depends on how much time you have.

In town for a few days? Stay in Reykjavík and take day tours to top locations such as the Golden Circle route . If you have 1 or 2 weeks to spend on our stunning island, then drive the Ring Road on an epic road trip . Or have a private driver-guide take you on an unforgettable tour. The choice is yours!

These are the places we recommend you add to your itinerary in April:

1. Westfjords

Location: North-west peninsula of Iceland

The Westfjords are a must-see for anyone hoping to travel off the beaten path in Iceland. The roads into this region are difficult to manage or completely closed in winter, so April is when the Westfjords are finally accessible for the summer months.

Why visit? Travel here for outstanding, untouched landscapes, miles and miles of dramatic sea cliffs, red sand beaches, and wildlife encounters.

Don’t miss: A visit to the tallest waterfall in the region, Dynjandi, the main town Ísafjörður, and to the Arctic Fox Center to learn about Arctic foxes. You could also drive part (or all!) of the Westfjords Way, a touring route that’ll take you to some of the best spots on the peninsula.

• Blog: Read this ultimate guide to the Westfjords to find out what else to see.

2. East Iceland

Location: East Iceland

East Iceland is often overlooked – being located on the other side of the country from Reykjavík – but it’s worth the detour around the Ring Road. 

Why visit? Travel east and you’ll encounter a variety of backdrops, each more stunning than the last. Admire the largest forest in Iceland, the serene landscape of the eastern fjords, and the vast Vatnajökull National Park.

Don’t miss: Going on a boat tour on the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, eating the local langoustine in Höfn, and spotting the wild roaming reindeer.

3. Borgarfjörður area

Location: West Iceland

This is a great day adventure to add to your itinerary if you’re traveling north from Reykjavík to visit the Snæfellsnes peninsula. It stretches from the Borgarfjörður fjord to Húsafell, the most inland farm settlement in the region.

Why visit? To experience the highlands of Iceland without traveling too far into that region. In fact, the roads into the highlands don’t usually open until late June. So in April it’ll give you a taste of the rugged landscape, with hot springs, craters, and rolling mountains.

Don’t miss: Having a wander around the village of Reykholt, being in awe of the power of the Deildartunguhver hot spring, and seeing the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls.

• Blog: Read about where to find the best waterfalls in Iceland .

4. Reykjavík and surroundings

Location: South-west Iceland

When you fly to Iceland, you’ll probably stay at least one night in Reykjavík. You could then set off on an adventure around the country. Or base yourself here to explore the capital of Iceland in more depth.

Why visit? For a taste of Iceland if you don’t have time to discover more of the country. Staying in Reykjavík doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the stunning countryside either. From here, day tours can take you to the south coast, to the Snæfellsnes peninsula, around the Golden Circle, and more.

Don’t miss: Checking out a local town or village festival, trying the local food at top restaurants, or going for a dip in geothermal spas such as the Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon .

• Explore the stunning south coast with these South Iceland vacation packages .
• Blog: Find out the best Iceland hot springs and pools .

What’s the weather like in Iceland in April?

In April, Iceland celebrates the first day of summer, but that doesn’t mean summer weather is here yet. Visit at this time of year and you can expect a month of transition where flowers start to bloom but snow may still fall. That said the days are brighter and longer than in winter.

Average temperatures are around 5°C (41°F) throughout the country but will vary slightly. You may well find it chillier on windy days, or warmer if you’re out walking on a sunny day. It’s best to also come prepared for some rainy days as average rainfall is around 20 mm in April.  

• Read more about Iceland’s weather and climate in our travel guide.

Does it snow in Iceland in April?

Yes, it may well snow when you’re visiting Iceland on your April vacation. It’s unlikely to stick in the city, but you might find the countryside covered in frost on some days.

Whatever the weather is during your stay, mountain peaks in the distance are still likely to be snow-capped. It’ll give an even more magical vibe to your pics! 

What are the driving conditions like in Iceland in April?

The driving conditions will depend on what kind of weather you encounter during your vacation. April is an especially changeable month, so it’s best to come prepared with winter driving in mind.

Make yourself aware of road regulations and safety precautions before your arrival in Iceland. For example, you should always have your headlights turned on, day and night, summer and winter alike. It’s also better to drive slowly, giving yourself time to react and to avoid black ice.

• Learn more on our Driving in Iceland guide .

We also highly recommend being flexible when visiting Iceland, especially between October and April. At this time of year, you might need to change your plans at a moment’s notice. Always check road and weather conditions before departing each day to know what to expect.

One of the advantages of booking with Iceland Tours is that we make sure you travel with peace of mind. You’ll benefit from in-car Wi-Fi, a detailed itinerary, and access to our 24/7 helpline if you need our support.

And the main advantage of taking on a self-drive tour of Iceland in April is definitely that there’s lighter traffic on the road. You’ll have more of the highlights along the way to yourself as you travel around the Ring Road.

What are the daylight hours like in Iceland in April?

In the spring, the daylight hours increase significantly as we head toward the summer solstice (which marks the longest day of the year). You’ll notice there’s even a big change between the beginning and end of the month. Generally, you can expect an average of 15 hours of daylight.

In early April, the sun rises in Reykjavík around 6:45 a.m. and sets around 8:20 p.m. By the end of the month, the sunrise happens just before 5 a.m. and sunset at almost 10 p.m.

Can I see the Northern Lights in April in Iceland?

Although the Northern Lights season is winding down in April, there are still chances to spot them. This is especially true in the first half of the month.

In order to witness this heavenly show, you need a dark, cloudless sky and the right solar conditions. You’re not really in control of the sun’s particles or the weather, so come when Iceland has longer nights to put all the chances on your side.

Visit Iceland between October and March for the longest nights of the year. The earlier or later in the season you come, the more balance you’ll have in terms of daylight hours.

As the Northern Lights are reliant on nature, we can’t promise you’ll see them during your time in Iceland. But it’s definitely worth putting them on your bucket list!

• Browse Northern Lights tours of Iceland .
• Blog: Best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland .

What to pack for a trip to Iceland in April?

When packing for a visit to Iceland in spring , it’s always good to remember its ever-changing weather conditions. As April falls at the end of winter, pack layers to keep warm and dry and you’ll be good to go!

Here are some must-have items for your suitcase:

• Insulated and waterproof winter coat
• Wooly or fleece sweaters
• Sturdy, waterproof boots
• Gloves, scarf, and warm hat
• Thermal underwear and thick socks
• Face and lip moisturizers
• Swimwear and towel to visit pools and spas
• Read our Iceland winter packing guide for more useful tips and details.

Planning your trip to Iceland

Let Iceland in April charm you – why not start planning your next getaway now? Pick which spots you want to visit most and the way you want to travel, and you can start finding the ideal itinerary for you.

Browse the selection of packages Iceland Tours offers to get started. You can pick from self-drive itineraries , private travel , multi-day excursions from Reykjavík , or guided group tours . These all have their own benefits, depending on your preferences.

Then, booking online is an easy process and you can even take advantage of our 5% deposit policy. Don’t just dream of Iceland, start your vacation plans now!

• Travel advice ,

About the author

Camila first travelled to Iceland in 2018 and it didn’t take long for her to fall in love with its culture, food and scenery. Throughout her life, she’s had the pleasure to live in different cultures and languages and absorb as much as possible from all her travels. You’re most likely to find her reading a good book in a local café or writing about the best spots to visit for top travel agencies.

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Iceland in April: An Ultimate Guide

The last wave of the winter, April is the month in which Iceland starts to see the first signs of spring. The weather has taken the turn from frosty cold to pleasant and slightly warmer and the breeding season is upon Iceland. April is the ideal combination of both summer and winter and will give you a fair taste of all the beauty that Iceland is. The country is filled with gorgeous spring blossoms and the small animal offspring, roads are easier to access and open in April so taking drive in the countryside is highly recommended whilst you enjoy the fabulous festivals. April attracts a comparatively larger crowd than other months of winter but it is still scarce when compared to the summer tourists. So, there is a fair chance for you to enjoy the mixed elements of summer and winter without having to encounter a long line of visitors ahead.

• Read about Iceland in each month of the year
• Best Season to visit Iceland
• Top Winter Activities in Iceland
• Northern Lights in Iceland
• Hiking in Iceland
• Iceland Packing Lists
• Solo Travels in Iceland
• Rent a car in Iceland
• Discover  hidden gems in Iceland.
• Self Driving in Iceland.

Best Self Drive Activities in Iceland in April

• Katla Ice Cave
• Snorkel Silfra
• Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike
• Snowmobile on Langjökull glacier
• Víðgelmir lava cave

Tourist Crowd in April

Since April is the off-season in Iceland for tourists, most of the tourist spots are free of the crowd. If you are not a fan of crowded places and events, visiting Iceland in April should check all the boxes on your list. The place is filled with tranquility and the wild is wide open to explore.

Pros and Cons of Visiting Iceland in April

The lesser crowd in April wounds up as one of the biggest pros of visiting Iceland in April. Most of the destinations are open to tourists. You can probably see everything from northern lights to spring special attractions like puffins and whales . There are no such cons of visiting Iceland in April as you will experience most of the winter special sights, enjoy the first day of the summer festival and get the best of the spring season. The only shortcoming will be the lack of temperature below the freezing points.

One of the reasons April is one of the best months to visit Iceland is because you get to experience the starting of summer and the top picks from the winter season as well. While the days are longer now in April, Northern Lights are still visible at night time. But to catch them, you will have to leave for the tour in the later hours of the night since even though Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis are a natural phenomenon, they are not visible all the time. The clouds can be in the way or the long hours of the day can present you with a bit of a problem for early sleepers. But the beauty of the dancing colorful lights makes it worth losing a bit of sleep for one night. You have an option to rent a vehicle like jeeps and drive to the countryside to enjoy the view. Although if you prefer to be a bit more comfortable, there are several northern light tours which are led by light experts and are carefully planned as per aurora forecast so that you can enjoy the lights properly. If you want to enjoy some company, you can take a bus tour to the best Northern Light sites.

Ice and Lava cave Tours

Iceland, the land of ice and fire, a phrase that comes to life when you lay your eyes upon the magnificent ice caves and the blazing colorful lava caves. The crystalline ice caves feature beautiful ice sculptures made by the dripping water which freezes at times due to extremely cold temperatures. Although April brings in the melting time most of the ice caves there are few places where you can still catch a glimpse of this special attraction, for example, Katla Ice Cave . After you have a bountiful of snow-white ice caves, make your way towards the red and brown lava caves . Most caves have beautiful openings that bring in the natural light in the caves making the spectrum even beautiful. Raufarhólshellir , Vatnshellir cave, or Víðgelmir cave are some of the best options you can weigh in to choose the ideal tour.

• Ice Cave Tours in Iceland
• Iceland Travel Guide to the Ice Caves
• Lava Cave tours in Iceland
• Best Lava Caves in Iceland

Whale Watching

Since whales are visible in Iceland, April brings the accessibility to get the colder part of Iceland and a chance to see the rarely visible mammals in the country. The best way to enjoy the whale watching season is to book a guided boat tour . Options for the vessels to travel include traditional oak boats of Iceland or RIB speed boats. You can choose the tour you want to take depending upon the vessel of choice and the time duration which can range anywhere between a few hours and a few days. There are more than 20 species of whales and dolphins present in Iceland at this time around so you are sure to spot a few at least. The most commonly seen whales in the north are mink whales, humpback whales, and harbor porpoises.

• Whale Watching Tours in Iceland
• Travel Guide to Whale Watching in Iceland

It’s Puffin Season

April brings the start of the driving season in Iceland when most roads are free of snow and daylight hours last longer than night time. It would be a shame to miss out on the 300 km long tourist route in southwestern Iceland known as the Golden Circle . It contains 3 primary stops which are coincidently some of the most beautiful sights to visit in the country. Þingvellir National Park , Gullfoss waterfall , and Geysir geothermal area in Haukadalur will be the three places you will be making a stop at in your drive around the golden circle. If you are a certified driver then you can hire a four-wheeler vehicle and drive off with your companions yourself or you can book a golden circle tour. Although, if you choose to enjoy the route solely with your companions then make sure that you are equipped with all route-related and site-related information.

• Sightseeing Tours to the Golden Circle
• Activities in the Golden Circle
• Top Locations in the Golden Circle
• Secret Locations in the Golden Circle
• Extended version of the Golden Circle

Do Not Miss Out on Glaciers

Glacier hiking is one of the biggest attractions in Iceland. It combines the thrill of conquering some very difficult geographical formations with the calming sensation of laying eyes upon one of the most gorgeous landscapes on the planet. Glacier hiking is open in Iceland all year round. While in the spring season in Iceland, still almost 10% of the country is covered with ice so glacier hiking tours are open for booking.  Sóheimajökull glacier , Vatnajokull glacier , along with Skaftafell Nature Reserve on the south coast of the country has an ample amount of options for you to choose for the hiking.

• Glacier Hiking Tours in Iceland
• Travel Guide to Glacier Hiking in Iceland

Go for A Drive

The melted ice off the roads of Iceland invites you for some long-stretched drives. The ring road is open and easily accessible in April meaning that you can drive yourself up to most of the sights and tourist spots. Be it Puffin watching, the golden circle tour, or reaching to the whale watching spots, drives are available for most of the locations that fall along the main ring road of the country. Since there is still a chance that it can snow, it is advised to hire a four-wheeler for the road.

• Self Driving in Iceland
• Winter Self Driving in Iceland

Best Day Tours to Take in Iceland in April

• South Coast & Northern Lights
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula
• Golden Circle & Snowmobile
• Glacier Lagoon Sightseeing
• Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon
• South Coast & Glacier Hike

Iceland Festivals in April

Aldrei fór ég suður.

This is one of the biggest music festivals of Iceland and was founded by the musician Mugison in the year 2003 when Mugison and his father suddenly decided to host a killer fest for the music lovers in their hometown Ísafjörður. It is held in Westfjords and almost two to three thousand people show up for the festival every year. Aldrei Fór Ég Suður or ‘I Never Went South’ is open and free for everyone who loves music regardless of their financial status. All the performers play free of cost at the festival. The Aldrei Fór Ég Suður brings together all the local musicians of Iceland along with brass bands, rappers, rock metal bands, and accordion players. The fact that performers present their music free of cost and everyone is invited to join, gave this festival the name ‘The People’s Rockfest’.

AK Extreme is the most extravagant snowboarding and music festival. Athletes from all over the world come to Iceland and take part in friendly competitions. One of the most noted events among the ones held in the festival is the Burn Jib sessions using handrails, benches, stairs, and other artificial obstacles while riding. Most events are held at Hlíðarfjall mountain in Akureyri. You can find several of them happening in local venues of the town while the bigger attractions like Burn Jib take place at the specially built snow park. AK Extreme is one of the most popular festivals in Iceland. You should not miss the chance to attend it if you visit north Iceland in April.

Eve Online Fanfest

Eve Online Fest brings players and game developers to come together in the city of Reykjavík in the celebration of EVE Online, a sci-fi multiplayer online role-playing game set way ahead in the future. The game was developed by an Icelandic company CCP Games. The celebrations are held in Harpa Concert Hall. The fanfest is mind-blowing. It ends with an epic party at the Top of the World. The CCP in-house band plays in the party joined by some famous music artists like DJ Kristian Nairn (popularly known as Hodor from Game of Thrones), and Skálmöld.

Children’s Cultural Festival

Organized to introduce different new kinds of arts, the Children’s Cultural Festival emphasizes the focus on kids being an artist. Most of the events are held in institutions like schools, libraries, and museums – the places it is the easiest for the kids to access the workshops and the exhibitions. Children get a chance to learn many fun things like hula-hooping and kite flying. The festival is concluded with a children’s dance and a little bit of banter. You are sure to get free admission to the festival if you are accompanied by a child.

Pack for the Journey: All the Essentials that you will need

Iceland is one of the most beautiful places on the planet. It can sure be tricky to prepare yourself for everything that it is probable to throw at you. The weather can be unpredictable and take turns for the worst at times so make sure you pack all the needed essentials before you set out for the journey. Here is a list for you to check:

Essential Outerwear

• Warm waterproof jackets for hiking
• Waterproof and windproof pants
• Insulated jackets
• Woolen hats/protective headgear
• Scarves to protect the neck from crisp winds
• Heavy Gloves for hiking

Extra Inner Layers

• Thermal innerwear
• Fleece or woolen sweaters for casual day/night outs
• Cotton t-shirts/shirts
• Leggings/casual pants/jeans for events and parties
• Swimsuit – to take a dip in hot springs
• Hiking Boots
• Casual Shoes/Sandals/Flip Flops for casual wear and comfort

Additional Important Picks

• Soap, bath towels, shampoo, face washes, and other toiletries
• Gadgets like phones, tablets, chargers, and travel adapters
• Reusable bottles and thermos
• Cameras and camera gear for photography
• Essentials like flashlights and batteries
• Rain covers (for bags)
• Prescribed medicines and over the counter drugs
• Water bottle

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

Iceland In April: 7 Things To Know Before You Go

December 17, 2023 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   1 Comment

Are you traveling to Iceland in April? We’ve got you covered with seven things you should know before beginning your adventures. This list will include some of the best Iceland tips for April including how to see the Northern Lights, whale watching tips, festivals galore to attend, and even snowboarding! You’re in for a truly magical trip. 

Planning your trip to Iceland last minute?

Make sure to book your hotels and tours in Iceland in advance to ensure availability! The longer you wait, the more difficult it gets. Here are my top picks for your trip :

Top Experiences And Tours In Iceland:

• Golden Circle Full Day Tour From Reykjavik (Likely to sell out!)
• Silfra Snorkeling Tour (Includes photos + only small group)
• South Of Iceland Full Day Trip (Our pick!)
• Whale Watching In Reykjavik (On a luxury yacht)
• Northern Lights Bus Tour (Great to go with a local)
• Ice Cave Tour And Glacier Hike (Likely to sell out)

Tickets You MUST book in advance:

• Keflavik > Reykjavik Bus Airport Transfer (Skip the line!)
• Sky Lagoon Entrance Ticket (Includes 7-step spa ritual)
• Blue Lagoon Entry Ticket With Drink (Likely to sell out!)

Top picks for places to stay in Iceland:

• Hotel South Coast (Great central location)
• Grandi Reykjavik (Includes free breakfast)
• Hotel Kria (Close to black sand beach)
• Hotel Skaftafell (Mid-range price)

Iceland weather in April includes ample rainy days and lots of wind, but the long, dark days of winter are over and that is certainly a reason to celebrate. The temperature ranges from 0°C to 7°C (32°F to 45°F), so not too bad! In April in Iceland, the snowy days subside and the Ring Road starts to open up for driving.

Whether you’re looking for things to do in Reykjavik in April or are hoping to venture beyond the capital region, the adventures to be had are endless. So lace up your waterproof boots, throw on a raincoat, and see what joy and good times April in Iceland can offer you. 

7 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In April

April in iceland is the last opportunity to catch the northern lights.

If you intend to chase the Northern lights in Iceland during April, you might just be in luck. Iceland’s northern lights months run roughly from September to April after which long hours of daylight prevent the lights from being visible. 

The Northern Lights are an unpredictable natural phenomenon. They require very specific conditions to be seen including clear skies which are not guaranteed in a country that experiences approximately 300 days of precipitation a year. 

If you’d prefer to rely on an expert to guide you to the best viewing spots, you’ll want to book a spot on a Northern Lights tour . If you don’t see any lights during your tour, most companies will allow you to rebook another tour at no extra cost. 

If you’d rather chase the lights on your own terms, you can drive your rental car away from the city lights of Reykjavik and track the aurora strength throughout the night. If you’re fortunate enough to glimpse these elusive lights you’re in for a real one in a lifetime treat as the ribbons of green and purple dance across the sky. 

Tips for Viewing the Northern Lights

• Limited Viewing Window : Chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland in April are lower compared to winter months. April is towards the end of the Northern Lights season in Iceland. However, sightings are still possible, especially in early April.
• Research Tour Options : There are various types of Northern Lights tours – from bus tours to private jeep tours, and even boat tours. Consider which type suits your preferences and budget.
• Check Aurora Forecasts : Use aurora forecasting websites or apps to check the likelihood of Northern Lights activity and cloud cover forecasts.
• Escape Light Pollution : Travel away from city lights to increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. The darker the location, the better.
• Photography Preparation : If you plan to photograph the Northern Lights , bring a tripod and use a camera with manual settings to adjust for long exposures.

Prepare For a Mix Of Weather Including Plenty Of Spring Rains

Temperatures in Iceland in April hover around 40F as the country starts to break out of its winter chill. April falls between the height of the Northern Lights season and the height of the midnight sun which means you’ll experience more normal daylight hours during your visit.

We suggest you come prepared for any type of weather in Iceland in April. Snowfall is limited, while rainfall occupies roughly half the month. 

Be sure to pack waterproof clothing including boots so you can continue to adventure through the jaw-dropping Icelandic landscapes rain or shine.

The First Day Of Summer In Iceland Occurs In April

Yes, you read that right! Though you may be bundled up and getting wind-whipped on a crisp April day, you might just simultaneously be celebrating the first day of summer with a group of locals thankful to be free of the long winter days.

The timing of these celebrations may seem odd, but the holiday was born back when Icelanders followed the Old Norse calendar, a calendar that only recognizes the two seasons of winter and summer with each lasting for six months. 

If you’re Visiting Iceland during April, it will be clear to you that summer has indeed not arrived, but Icelanders have clung to the tradition of celebrating in April anyway. After all, who is going to turn down a public holiday and a chance for festivities?

If you’re looking to join in the festivities, most towns will have parades, games, live music, face painting, and more. This can be a particularly fun holiday for families as the activities tend to cater to children.

Reykjavik Children’s Culture Festival Promotes Youth Involvement In The Arts

The Reykjavik Children’s Culture Festival , a week-long festival in April, celebrates children and art. If you’re traveling to Iceland in April as a family and looking for a way to keep your children entertained and immersed in Icelandic culture, you should join in the festival activities. 

Activities take place all across the city with schools, libraries, museums, concert halls, and more participating. From arts and crafts and puppetry to experimental concerts with audience participation, there’s a wide variety of activities available. 

Though this festival is largely attended by Icelandic children, it’s free for tourists as well and is designed for children age 16 and under. While some activities will include English translations, the beauty of the arts is that there’s often a universal understanding and appreciation that transcends language, which makes interactive group activities accessible to everyone.

The Aldrei Fór Ég Suður Rock Concert Embraces And Celebrates Community

Every year during Easter, good times are had by all at the multi-day Aldrei Fór Ég Suður (I Never Went South) rock music festival in Isafjorður. This is a music festival that promotes community and the pure enjoyment of music. Entrance is free and all acts are welcomed with equal enthusiasm regardless of their level of popularity beyond the Westfjords. 

The trick to Aldrei Fór Ég Suður is getting there. Roughly five and a half hours from downtown Reykjavik, Isafjorður enjoys smaller tourist crowds all year round thanks to its more remote location.

Outside of the capital however, April driving in Iceland can be tricky with snow often making it difficult or near impossible to make it to Isafjorður. As a result, this festival is heavily attended by locals. 

Epic Snowboarding, Music, And Parties Await You At AK Extreme

If you’re looking for things to do in Iceland in April, head up to Akureyri, the capital of the north, for some wild, often precarious displays of snowboarding talent.

AK Extreme is a four-day snowboarding festival featuring professional snowboarders competing for the AK title in a series of events taking place on Mt Hlíðarfjall and downtown in the heart of Akureyri.

A narrow, man-made ramp down the face of stacked shipping containers helps create one of the most thrilling events of the festival, the Big Jump. 

Locals come out in droves to witness the sometimes terrifying but always exciting contests. The party doesn’t end with the snowboarding, however. If you head to the Green Hat, you’ll find DJs and bands ready to bring out your best dance moves well into the night. 

You Could Spot Whales And Puffins As Early As April In Iceland

Despite being on the very early end of the whale watching season, if you’re visiting Iceland in April with the intention of embarking on a whale watching tour , you’ll certainly get the opportunity. 

Whether you’d prefer to stick to the waters off of Reykjavik, The Snaefellsnes Peninsula, or to Husavik, the whale-watching capital of Iceland, there are plenty of excellent tour options you can choose from.

During your tours, you’re most likely to spot Minke whales, Humpback whales, Orcas, White-beaked dolphins, and Harbour Porpoises. 

Most tour companies offer a few different tour options. Some will take you out under the midnight sun, some involve beautiful traditional, wooden sailing ships, and others include both whale watching and trips to Puffin Island. 

If you’re on the search for puffins you’ll find an abundance of these quirky and adorable orange-beaked birds on the Látrabjarg cliffs in the Westfjords and on Vestmannaeyjar, an island off of mainland Iceland and home to the world’s largest puffin colony.

Iceland in April Weather Tips

Traveling to Iceland in April can be a magical experience, offering unique landscapes and activities. However, the end-of-winter weather in Iceland is unpredictable and can be challenging, requiring visitors to be well-prepared. I have visited multiple times in April! Here are my tips!

General Iceland Weather in April :

• Iceland Temperature : Iceland temperatures in April ranges from 0°C to 7°C (32°F to 45°F), so wear layers that you can easily add or remove
• Expect Variable Weather : April in Iceland is a transitional month, so weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared for a mix of rain, snow, and occasional sunny days.
• Average Snowfall : : Snow is less common in April, but it can still occur, particularly in northern regions and higher elevations.
• Average Rainfall : April is one of the drier months in Iceland, but rainfall is still frequent. The average rainfall in April ranges from 40mm to 50mm.

Reykjavík Weather in April :

• Temperature : In April, temperatures in Reykjavik typically range from 0°C to 7°C (32°F to 45°F), with the possibility of slightly warmer days.
• Driving in and Around Reykjavik : Main roads in and around the city are usually clear of snow, but it’s still wise to check road conditions if you plan to venture outside the city, especially into more rural areas.
• Average Snowfall : Snow is less frequent in Reykjavik in April compared to the winter months.
• Average Rainfall : Expect a mix of rain and drizzle on several days. On average, Reykjavik gets around 50mm to 60mm of rain over the month.

Weather Tips

• Windproof and Waterproof Gear : Bring a windproof and waterproof jacket, as April weather in Iceland can be windy and wet.
• Swimwear for Hot Springs : Don’t forget to add your swimsuit to your Iceland packing list for April for hot springs or geothermal pools, a must-do in Iceland.
• Winter Road Conditions : Some roads, especially in rural areas, may still have winter conditions. Check road conditions if you’re driving.
• Daylight Hours : Enjoy longer daylight hours (up to 13-16 hours), perfect for sightseeing.
• Despite the cold, the sun can be strong, especially when reflecting off snow. Sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended
• Be Flexible with Travel Plans: Have alternative plans due to potential weather changes.

We’re thrilled you’ve chosen to plan a trip to Iceland in April. With slightly smaller tourist crowds and weather that’s beginning to warm, it can be an ideal time to visit the land of fire and ice. 

Whether you’re hiking in Iceland in April or are immersing yourself in Icelandic culture at one of the many April festivals, there’s something for everyone and you’re sure to be entertained and inspired during your trip. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions as you begin planning your trip and deciding which things to see in Iceland in April. 

Reader Interactions

September 5, 2023 at 11:47 pm

I’m hoping to plan a spring break trip for my 11yo daughter (April 2024)… I’d like to focus on whale watching, puffin sightings and horseback riding. Festivals would be lovely and of course wouldn’t pass the chance to see the northern lights. Thoughts? Suggestions? Open to doing a summer trip as well… thanks so much!

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ICELAND IN APRIL 2024

In this post I'll show you why I love April in Iceland.

Below, I'll answer all of your questions on:

- What to expect when visiting Iceland in April - Average weather and temperature in April - Special events - Best tours, activities & things to do

... and give you my very best, local insight and tips, to make your trip an unforgettable one here in Iceland in April!

Let's dive in!

Don't miss: Best Day Tours from Reykjavik in April

Iceland in April quick facts:

April is the time of year when the white coat of winter begins to loosen its grip on the country, which reveals a beautiful green dress that was hiding underneath all winter long.

• Average temperature: 32-41 Fahrenheit (more details at the bottom of this blog post)
• Sunrise 06:00am / Sunset 9:00pm
• Brighter days & better weather: April is when our days start to really increase in length with a later sunset and the weather starts to get warmer.
• Good time for Northern Lights?: Yes! (Especially early-mid April. More details below)
• Best things to do: View our local recommendations of activities below!

Hey! Before you start reading the awesome blog!

Did you know Wake Up Reykjavík is also on YouTube!? And there we made a video all about Iceland in April! We have tons of great videos all about Iceland on our page , so consider subscribing to us! See our video about Iceland in April here!

Now on to the Blog!

IS IT POSSIBLE TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN ICELAND IN APRIL?

I’m happy to tell you: YES! - Well... sort of.

Here is the thing .. In order to see the northern lights, you’ll need 3 factors:

• High northern lights activity
• Clear skies
• Complete darkness (no daylight)

You can experience the three factors almost all year round (the only exception being the pitch-black darkness which is not possible during summer). Here in Iceland, the sun will set later and later during the evening as we draw closer to summer solstice (24 hours of daylight), on June 21.

By the end of April, the sun will set around 22:00. Which is why most northern lights tour operator stop hosting tours on the 15th of April.

But I’ve got good news for you!

Even though April has a late sunset (especially towards the end of the month), it has still been the month that I’ve personally seen the most amount of vibrant northern lights in the past years! I don’t really know why that is – but that’s really good news for you if you’re here during April!

HOW TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN APRIL

If you’re eager to see the magical lights. Then my best recommendation to you is to book a tour (if you’ll be visiting anytime between April 1-15)

This option is great since these tours have a weather professional that monitors the weather forecast and northern lights activity like crazy – and will take you to the exact spots that have the highest possible chance of seeing the lights.

Exploring the northern lights is one of my favourite things to do here in Iceland and I’ve been so fortunate to have been able to try out a variety of different tour versions of the northern lights (via boat, bus, super jeep truck etc.)

Out of all the tours that I’ve been able to try out, there was one that really stood out, which is why I recommend it to all my friends and guests coming to Iceland.

It's a small group experience (which I really enjoyed, since big groups tend to give activities a touristy feel). The guides were great, we had wifi on the mini bus, it's inexpensive compared to other northern lights tour.

... and lastly and most importantly, they took us to a brilliant spot outside the city with little to no cloud coverage to see amazing northern lights!

If you’re interested in joining a northern lights tour then I’ve made a special collaboration with the tour operator to be able to offer my readers the tour at the lowest possible price.

You’ll find all the info and be able to secure your spot right through this link here .

Have fun and enjoy the magical lights!

WHAT TO WEAR IN ICELAND IN APRIL?

April is a month of spring so be prepared for some chilly atmosphere. April is not a windy month but it could be quite a wet one so bring your raincoat! A nice warm jacket is definitely a must-pack item along with hat and gloves!

I always recommend people to bring layers of clothing as the weather here is quite schizophrenic, especially during winters, spring, and autumn.

Iceland in April packing list:

• Base Layers – A few pars of underwear, socks & t-shirts
• Warm sweater – Fleece or wool. This can work great as a layer underneath a warm jacket or parka if the weather gets cold. And on the other hand, if the weather god’s bless us with a warm day – you would just simply leave your parka/jacket at home and enjoy your day, rocking your awesome sweater :)
• Pants – Jeans do work fine. But if you’re planning on doing an outdoor activity ( Glacier hiking & ice climbing or whale watching for example) then it can be a smart move to bring a par of lightweight outdoor pants.
• Weatherproof jacket or parka – If you end up in rainy or windy weather, then this can be a solid addition to your outfit here in Iceland.

And then, of course, bring your bathing suit as Iceland is filled with hot springs, swimming pools and natural wonders worth exploring!

Nothing beats a nice warm geothermal bath on a chilly spring morning! If you’re considering embarking on a natural hot spring adventure – then my simple suggestions is to DO IT. You won’t regret it. And if you do, then check out our Natural Hot Spring blog which we’ve filled with our all time favourite hot springs in Iceland. Enjoy – and have FUN!

THE ABSOLUTE BEST TOURS AND ACTIVITIES AVAILABLE IN ICELAND

There are a lot of activities to choose from when visiting Iceland.

But there are a few must-do that I recommend to all my non-Icelandic friends and travellers on their way to Iceland!

1. THE REYKJAVIK FOOD WALK

This is the single best thing to do in Reykjavik (in both my opinion and 4000+ other travellers on Trip Advisor.)

The delicious  Reykjavik Food Tour  is a 3 hour walking tour through Reykjavik with a local. You’ll learn useful tips and fun stories about the city while visiting the best local restaurants and hidden gems to enjoy some of the very best Icelandic food available.

You will taste one of the very best home made Icelandic ice creams I have ever tasted in my life, get home made lamb soup, our typical fish, the famous Icelandic hot dog and more!

I've said it before, and I'll say it again: I think the Reykjavik Food tour is one of the single best ways to explore and get to know Reykjavik first hand. It's just a great way to get to know our city, our culture and cuisine, through a fun local guide!

Find the Reykjavik Food tour here.

2. WHALE WATCHING SEASON IN ICELAND!

Hurray, the whales are here!

There are quite a few reason why I really enjoy whale watching in Iceland

Firstly I will say that you can see whales all year round in Iceland – but the PEAK SEASON for highest chance of seeing the majestic whales starts in April!

It's also a big plus that most tours in Iceland take place outside the city (where you’ll need to be picked up from downtown Reykjavik and driven to your tour destination) but whale watching tour departs from the old harbour in central Reykjavik. In walking distance from most hotels in central Reykjavik.

Whale watching is a popular, cheap and a fun activity to do in Iceland. Seeing those majestic beasts in all their glory is a magnificent experience which I can’t recommend highly enough.

Yes, its 100% cruelty-free safe and definitely worth your while. It’s not every day that you can be up close to these gentle giants in their natural environment. So if you’re travelling to Iceland, make sure to get on one of them boats!

3. VISIT THE PUFFINS!

Fun fact of the day:

Iceland is home to one of the world’s largest colonies of puffins. Over half of the world’s population of the Atlantic Puffin breeds in Iceland. The total population of puffins in Iceland is estimated to be between 8 and 10 million birds.  HOLY PUFFIN THAT’S A LOT OF BIRDS!

‘Puffin Season’ is from early April to September. These little guys spend most of their time on the sea as they are big time ocean creatures. A big reason for this is their fantastic swimming abilities and can stroke their wings underwater down to 60 meters! … And once a year they come to land to breed.

So, if you ever want to see this colourful creature sometime in your life then visit Iceland sometime between April and September – and hop on a rib safari puffin tour!

4. GLACIER SNOWMOBILE TOUR!

An insanely fun and unique way of exploring the Icelandic glaciers!

It’s crazy that most people think snowmobiling in Iceland is only possible during the winter. It’s glaciers, they are cold all year round and the chances are just that much better of decent weather and beautiful visibility during April!

This snowmobiling tours are available with a super convenient pickup and drop off from almost every hotel in downtown Reykjavik.

P.S. Bring your GoPro if you have one! Most of the helmets have mounts where you can attach your GoPro to capture some fun footage to show your friends back home. (It’s a great way to make friends and family members jealous of your super cool trip to Iceland.) Just kidding, but really – bring a camera if you have one!

Find our best Snowmobile tour here.

5. EXPLORE THE WONDERS OF THE SOUTH COAST

I cannot say too many great things about this wonderful tour.

It’s in my opinion – one of the best ‘see it all / do it all’ tour if you want to explore as much as possible in on day.

You’ll visit my two favourite waterfalls in Iceland (Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss). Not only that, but you’ll also explore the absolutely stunning black sand beach – it’s really something else!

You can check out and secure your spots on my most recommend south coast tour here.

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE IN ICELAND IN APRIL?

The average temperature in Iceland in April is between 32 to 41 fahrenheit. That is significantly better, not just than January and February, but March too.

However, even though it's not like summer yet, one of the things that I love most about April in Iceland is that day and night finally return back to normal. That means that the sun rises around 6:00am and sunset is on average around 9:00pm (a huge step up from the 3 hours of daylight we have in December).

After months of intense darkness, this is PURE HEAVEN!

APRIL SPECIAL DATES IN ICELAND

There is a lot of fun going on here in Iceland during April.

Which is why, again, I recommend all travellers to pick it as their month of choice for visiting. Here below, you’ll find the main special dates with a little practical info. You won’t have to worry too much about opening hours as our Easter won’t affect them too much.

But you can check out the page of Visit Reykjavik where they’ve listed up opening hours here in the city.

APRIL FOOLS IN ICELAND | 1st of April

Icelanders are pranksters, we truly appreciate a good laugh! So if there is any nation that LOVES April fools, it’s Iceland! Stay on your toes if you are ever in Iceland on this day as chances are that we will pull a prank on you! Also, if you get a glimpse of one of the Icelandic newspapers (‘Fréttablaðið’ or ‘Morgunblaðið’.) You’ll notice that the front page will usually have a large bizarre story that both makes no sense at all and is a complete lie.

My favourite one was probably when the government run Channel 1 or RÚV (Ríkisútvarpið, which means the state radio) said that they were giving or selling iconic tv props that every Icelander recognised. Sooo many people showed up at their HQ only to be told that they were gullible enough to fall for this April Fool's prank!

THE ‘FIRST DAY OF SUMMER’ | April 25

Yes, yes & YES! The 25st of April is when we can start celebrating SUMMER in Iceland! What a great feeling! It's just like Spain...well not really. Or not at all. But from here, the world only spins in pure bliss with over 15 hours of sunlight. The whole vibe of the island lifts and our bodies start feeling fresh again from all that vitamin D!

Local Tips for a Smoother Trip

Dress in Layers:

The key to comfort in Iceland’s unpredictable weather is layering. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are essential, as well as good hiking boots for those adventurous treks.

Embrace Icelandic Cuisine:

Don’t leave without trying local delicacies like fermented shark (hákarl), lamb stew, and the famous Icelandic hot dog. Visiting local eateries is a great way to experience the culture.

Respect Nature:

Iceland’s landscapes are fragile. Stick to marked paths, don’t disturb wildlife, and always follow local guidelines to ensure these natural wonders remain pristine for generations to come.

Use the Hot Pots:

Iceland is dotted with geothermal hot springs, or "hot pots," ranging from the well-known Blue Lagoon to hidden gems only locals know about - to the swimming pools that you can find around Reykjavik. They’re perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration. If this is something that you’re interested in, we have a separate video that goes over 11 hot springs here in iceland.

Learn a Few Icelandic Phrases:

While most Icelanders speak excellent English, learning a few phrases in Icelandic can be a fun way to connect with locals. Simple greetings or thank-yous can go a long way.

TO WRAP IT UP!

Exploring Iceland in April offers the unique advantage of experiencing both winter's tail end and the onset of spring. With careful planning and an adventurous spirit, you’re in for an experience that combines the best of Iceland’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and fewer crowds. Whether basking in the extended daylight, navigating the diverse weather, or diving into the local culture.

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April in Iceland: Your Expert Guide to Weather, Daylight, Events + Natural Wonders

Have you ever wondered what April in Iceland is like? 

It’s the time of year when the country is slowly waking up from winter, stretching its arms and breathing in the cool crisp air as sunlight peeks through the blinds.

The mood is lighter in April in Iceland as summer draws near. 

Nature starts to come alive with puffins nesting, daylight hours increase, and the Northern Lights bid a final farewell.

In this post, I’ll be answering your questions about weather, sightseeing, driving, festivals, and more for your adventure in April in Iceland.

Let’s get into it!

Table of Contents:

Is April a Good Time to Visit Iceland?

Iceland april daylight hours, april in iceland: northern lights.

• Temperature in Iceland in April

What To Wear in Iceland in April

Sightseeing availability.

• Driving in April in Iceland

Aldrei Fór Ég Suður 

Children’s culture festival.

• Things To Do in Iceland in April
• Iceland Guidebooks + Maps

April in Iceland is a great time to experience the snow-kissed beauty of winter while enjoying slightly warmer weather and longer hours for sightseeing. There are also numerous festivals and events happening throughout the month. 

Let me share a few reasons why I think April is a good time to visit Iceland.

Puffins: At the very end of April in Iceland, the puffins start arriving to mate and nest. A couple of great viewing spots include Dyrhólaey and Ingólfshöfði Nature Reserve. While peak season is May-August, you might just be able to spot some of these adorable creatures if you’re arriving late in the month!

More daylight hours: More daylight hours are always very exciting because this means more time in which to explore. Iceland has numerous iconic attractions and with extended daylight hours, you can make the most of your trip by ticking off more places off your bucket list!

Off-peak season: April is still considered shoulder season, and with that, comes a few perks. 

There aren’t that many crowds at this time. Prices on accommodation, tours, and rentals tend to be a little bit cheaper, making April a great time to travel to Iceland.

Northern Lights : If you want to catch the northern lights in April, I assume that you’re someone that lives for the rush of doing things at the last minute, aren’t you? 😉 It’s still possible to see them at the beginning of April, although it’s not ideal due to the extended daylight hours. 

Accessibility : As the snow starts melting, areas that were previously a no-go in the middle of winter, like the Westfjörds, become accessible in April. But remember, the weather conditions are temperamental and if you’re planning a trip, remember that driving can be a challenge.

So, let’s talk about the number of daylight hours you’re getting in April in Iceland.

There’s a lot to see in Iceland and you’ll want to make the most of the time you have. Knowing how much daylight you have is key to effectively planning your days. 

At the beginning of April, you’re looking at around 13 hours of daylight, but by the end of the month, it’s up to about 16 hours. 

So, it’s getting a lot brighter with lots of daylight hours for exploring!

If you’re hoping to see the aurora, April in Iceland is the very tail end of the Northern Lights season. 

The last opportunity to catch them is around the mid-April mark. Anything past that, it’s not getting dark enough into the evening to see the aurora.

I recommend taking a Northern Lights tour because the guides know the exact spots that will maximize your chances of viewing them. 

Keep reading, I’ll get to awesome tour suggestions in a bit… 😉

If you’d prefer to venture out on your own, I dedicated a whole blog post on how to see the Northern Lights and the best spots to view them below.👇

➡️ READ : How To See The Northern Lights In Iceland: Best Viewing Spots, When To Go And MORE

April in Iceland: Weather 

If you’re living in the northern hemisphere, April is usually considered a spring month. 

But in Iceland, things are a little different. 

I like to say that Iceland basically has two seasons: Winter and winter-lite. April in Iceland feels like the latter! 😂

I often get asked, is there snow in Iceland in April? 

Yes, snowfall is possible.

You can expect wind, rain, sun, and possibly snow, so be prepared for all types of weather. 

The average rainfall will be 72.2mm (2.9 in.), less than what we experienced since January.

The snow may be starting to melt, and you may even see some green grass and flowers blooming, but you never really know.

The landscapes might still be mostly brown with snow-capped mountains, but they’re still absolutely stunning!

Temperature In Iceland In April

You can still expect there to be a chill in the air, but it is starting to warm up slightly.

The average temperature in Iceland in April is between 1 degree Celsius (34 degrees Fahrenheit) and 6 degrees Celsius. 

So, it’s not your typical spring, remember – winter-lite! 😉

If one thing’s for sure, it’s that April weather in Iceland is definitely unpredictable.

The number one recommendation I always have when wondering what to wear in Iceland in April is to pack layers. 

This way, you can easily add or remove layers based on the rapidly changing weather. Because yes, in Iceland it can easily feel like you can experience all four seasons in just one day!

As you can still expect wind, rain, and snow, these layers need to be waterproof and windproof, especially the outer shell.

Need help deciding what to pack for April in Iceland? Check out my Ultimate Iceland Packing Guide!

In it, you’ll find essential weather information for all the seasons, packing tips, and checklists to make planning your trip effortless. I’ve even included what to pack for the kids!

Download my FREE Packing Guide below 👇

Outer layer: This would include a wind and waterproof jacket, and lightweight hiking pants that are also comfortable. A hat or headband will help keep you warm, especially when the wind picks up. 

One of my favorite things is my touchscreen gloves . Whether I’m referring to my maps, recording content, or taking photographs, these gloves allow me to use my electronic devices without having to remove them. 

If you must choose between a scarf or a buff, opt for the latter because it’s more compact and packs away easily if you don’t need it. 

Layers : Be sure to bring thermal base layers , several long-sleeved tops and sweaters, and comfy stretchy leggings! I also love all things wool because there’s nothing quite like it to trap in heat! If you’ve been looking for the perfect sweater, you need to check out the original Icelandic Lopapeysa. It’ll be the best sweater you’ve ever owned, trust me!

➡️ READ : Icelandic Lopapeysa: Your Guide to Buying Authentic Icelandic Wool Sweaters

Footwear : I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to bring good quality hiking shoes that are waterproof and comfortable. We’ve all been there, walking in uncomfortable shoes that cause blisters can really put a damper on your day! 

Iceland has a huge pool culture and if you’ve added the hot springs to your itinerary, pack a pair of flip-flops.

Bottom line: You have to be prepared for all seasons. If you want a more in-depth look at what to pack for April in Iceland, I highly suggest referring to my spring packing list blog below for more details👇

➡️ READ : Iceland Spring Packing List: Pack Like A Pro In April + May

It can be tricky knowing which areas are accessible for sightseeing, especially when the seasons change. This is what you can expect in April in Iceland regarding accessibility to some of the most popular sights

Reykjavík , Golden Circle, South Iceland, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula : In terms of sightseeing, these areas are easily accessible in April. They are some of the most popular routes in Iceland and the roads are well-maintained so you can easily venture out and enjoy all the attractions. 

East Iceland, Westfjörds, and the north part of the Ring Road : You’re going to want to exercise a bit more caution with these areas, especially the Westfjörds.

I traveled to the Westfjörds in April, but it was challenging, to say the least! You may encounter some pretty terrible weather and a ton of snow, especially on the mountain passes. For this reason, I still always suggest a 4W drive in the winter, including April. But more on that in a bit.

We also had difficulty accessing certain things like restaurants because they were still closed for the winter season. 

Highlands, Þórsmörk , Landmannalaugar, and surrounding areas : These areas are completely off-limits in April. It’s generally colder, with more snow, and too dangerous to access them this time of year.

Driving in April in Iceland 

The weather in April in Iceland is very unpredictable.

On the one hand, the roads could be very slippery, and snowy and storms could lead to road closures. 

On the other hand, the snow could already be melting and you could experience nice weather and the roads are fine. 

It makes me think of the famous Forrest Gump quote, … “ You never know what you’re gonna get” . 😅

It’s always a good idea to be prepared for difficult driving conditions.

Now, the decision on whether you should rent a 2WD or a 4WD in April will depend on where you plan on going. If you’re sticking to the popular routes where the roads are maintained, you could probably get away with a 2W drive. Personally, I suggest a 4WD for April. 

I made a video on this topic that I’m sure you’ll find helpful, so make sure to check that out below👇 

Pro tip: Always check the road conditions before heading out for the day because it can really have a huge impact on your travel plans. Check the local website road.is where you’ll find out information about traffic, road closures, and road conditions. 

Want to go with the best Icelandic car rental company out there? 

Exclusive offer for IWAV readers, Blue Car Rental is offering 5% off your total rental price! The discount will automatically be applied at checkout when you use my VIP link above – no code needed!

April Festivals + Events

A few fun events are happening during April in Iceland, on everything from culture to sports.  

Some of these dates might change from year to year, so if you’re planning a visit, make sure to double-check the dates for these events for the year you’re coming to see if they line up.

The most important Icelandic holiday in April to keep in mind is Easter. Now, this holiday either falls over March or April, so again, please keep this in mind before you travel. 

Icelanders take Easter very seriously – they get a few days off work before the holiday and extend the break until the Monday after Easter.

Just a heads up, lots of places might have limited hours or be closed during this time.

Icelanders love candy, and for Easter, they go crazy with chocolates! 

It’s the best kind of crazy. 😄

They’ll sell huge chocolate eggs, and inside of that egg, there are even more chocolates and treats. I swear, the eggs are about the size of your head! 

You can, however, buy them in a range of sizes from huge, down to miniature size and they’re often given out as gifts.

You can be sure of one thing, there will always be chocolates during Easter!

A festival that happens around the Easter season is called Aldrei fór ég suður, which means, “I never went south.” 

This is a really big, fun music celebration that happens in Ísafjörður in the Westfjörds. 

The festival’s name comes from a song by Bubbi Morthens, who apparently “never went south” to Reykjavík; and each year local musicians perform at this festival.

The festival is free and what’s interesting is that each band has the same amount of time to play and there’s no sound check before the time.

It’s a really fun experience!

This is a great event to check out for anyone who’s into winter snow sports.

AK Extreme is a snowboarding event that happens in Akureyri, north Iceland. It draws massive crowds and you’ll have people competing locally or from abroad. 

This event usually spans over 3 days and there are also music festivals that coincide with it.

This festival is all about children and focuses on exposing the youth to various art forms through workshops and performances. 

You can expect to see theater, art, puppetry, dance, music, and more, all aimed to spark creativity. 

Check it out, especially if you’re traveling with kids!

➡️ READ: Plan The Ultimate Iceland Family Holiday: 8 Tips To Help You Travel Better With Kids

Things To Do In Iceland In April

If you’re wondering what to do in Iceland in April, you’ve got plenty of options! With the changing season and increase in daylight hours, there are lots of breathtaking sights to explore. 

Areas that were closed during winter, are now starting to open as the weather improves. And this is also the last chance you’ll get to experience some of those activities that are only available over the winter.

Glacier Hike: An incredible way to explore Icelandic nature is with a glacier hike! Drive by Eyjafjallajökull glacier, and then visit Sólheimajökull glacier tongue that extends from one of Iceland’s largest glaciers. Basic hiking gear and safety equipment are provided.

Tour: South Coast & Glacier Hiking

Puffins: At the very end of April in Iceland, the Puffins start arriving. They come back to land to nest and have their babies and it’s a really cool thing to see, even if you don’t consider yourself to be a bird whisperer! Check out this video if you’d like to find out more about these sweet Icelandic creatures.👇

Northern Lights: If you want to catch the aurora, make sure that your Northern Lights tour is booked as early in the month as possible to avoid disappointment. This really is the last time you’ll be able to see them until winter rolls around again!

➡️ Take A Tour: DT 10 Northern Lights

Snowmobiling: If you’ve ever wanted to go snowmobiling on a glacier, this is your chance. Hold on to your woolen hat!

➡️ Take A Tour: Pearl Tour – Golden Circle Super Jeep Tour & Snowmobiling

Geothermal pools: Pool culture is HUGE in Iceland! Take a soak in one of the country’s relaxing geothermal pools or spas – there’s at least one in every town. It’s the perfect way to end a day of adventuring! A word to the wise -if you’re interested in experiencing the geothermal pools but not up for the crowds, then check out this post I did on Blue Lagoon alternatives:

➡️ READ MORE :  Top 10 Blue Lagoon Alternatives: Hot Springs, Pools, and Spas That Are Just as Breathtaking

Waterfalls : Iceland is estimated to have over 10,000 waterfalls, so you absolutely cannot leave without visiting at least one of them! Check out some of my top favorite waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Goðafoss. Trust me you won’t be disappointed!

➡️ Take A Tour: Silver Circle Small Group Day Tour | Canyon Baths, Waterfalls & Sagas

Iceland Guidebooks + Maps 

Planning a trip to Iceland can feel overwhelming, especially with the language barrier, wild weather, and the hurdles of reaching remote locations.

An overseas holiday to Iceland may feel completely out of your comfort zone. 

But please don’t let that hold you back from experiencing one of the best trips of your life! 

It doesn’t have to be daunting. 

Whether it’s your first time in Iceland or you’re a seasoned traveler, my Iceland Guidebooks + Maps is the game-changing resource you’re looking for.

✅ Stop the endless Google and forum searches (riddled with outdated and incorrect information!)

✅ Get a detailed digital map with over 500 pinned locations of must-see attractions, hidden gems, and practical information like gas stations and grocery stores.

✅ Stay up-to-date with the latest tips and local insights like opening hours, fees, and menus from someone who’s lived in Iceland for 9 years. 

If you’re on the fence, take a look at what Laura Thompson had to say about it:

“ This is a must-buy when planning your trip! I have told EVERYONE I know to get this. The hidden gems are worth it alone but the maps were a lifesaver! I even used the printouts when we did our slideshow to provide more background on each location we visited. When Jeanie rates the places 10/5…GO! Buy the bundle, go adventure, and have a great time!”

Happy Planning, 

Pin it for later! 👇🏼

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Iceland Tours in April 2025

• May '24
• Jun '24
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• Oct '24
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• Jan '25
• Feb '25
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84 Iceland trips in April 2025

• Christmas & New Year

Iceland Escape

It was a great time. Everything was easily followed and organized well. Only drawback was the weather, and not being able to see the northern lights during our time. All things considered, will definitely be going back to Iceland.

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

8 Days Guided Iceland Circle

What a magnificent adventure. The tour guide, Martina, was so knowledgeable and interesting. The group was caring and very diverse from all over. We saw some unbelievable natural wonders like glaciers and waterfalls. Our guide gave us old stories of trolls and founding members of Iceland. So many happy memories to share. Would highly recommend.

• Northern Lights

5 Day - Snaefellsnes, South Coast and Northern Lights

Overall the guides and drivers were excellent - in their knowledge, driving safety, preparing the group for activities that were next on the list. The only down time during the day was some of the distances between stops. But not an issue as we were well aware of that before hand. A good value for the cost!!

Best of Iceland: Golden Circle & Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Best of Iceland

Fifa made the tour GREAT. She was entertaining, flexible, helpful, positive, informative and kept a great pace. She added a few stops and made sure that everyone was able to experience the activity they were most looking forward to. Also, we were very lucky, for the most part the weather really cooperated and all the waterfalls, glaciers, mountains, beaches, and all of the other sights were more impressive in person, than in pictures. Plus the Puffins arrived right before we did!!

Iceland's Golden Circle in Depth

Paulina was a great guide and we had a wonderful experience!

6 Day - Around Iceland Adventure

Loved every second of the tour,gunnar the guide was excellent, extremely knowledgeable and helpful. And the group was just a good size to make friends.

Iceland Discovery

The tour was well designed - we saw a variety of places and enjoyed a wide range of activities. The van was a convenient means of transportation, but the seats in the back row were cramped, with less leg room than between the other rows, and on the long drives it became very uncomfortable. The accommodation was excellent in most places, with clean and airy rooms. Exception: the large guesthouse in Siglufjordur, where the standard of cleanliness was lower, and the faucet in our room sink was stiff and very hard to use. The food was fresh, healthy, and tasty in all places. Stefan was knowledgeable, helpful in all situations, responsive to our needs, and personable. He also announced and implemented seat rotation.

6 Day Around Iceland Summer Minibus Tour

A solid but well-paced tour. Guide/driver Jim was very capable with a very pleasing personality. My only suggestion is that it should start and finish at the airport. Booking accommodation and arranging transport is difficult and expensive for foreigners. We elderly folk had to get ourselves to a bus at 5.30 am to catch a 9.40 flight out.

seamless, no glitches, hiccups or issues from booking entirely online...whenever i texted w questions, they got right back....an awesome value for my money... am planning next year already!!!! thank you for wonderful experience

8 Day Around Iceland Summer Minibus Tour

The trip was excellent. Good weather,long day, well arranged itinerary,caring tour guide Mr Gillfy. In particular, I enjoyed the exclusive optional tour package that brought me new exciting experience everyday.

Land of the Northern Lights - 5 days

The trip was amazing. The landscape was beautiful. Our tour guide and bus driver were great. Iceland is friendly and clean. The only thing I would change is the Hotel Cabin. The rooms were horrible and too, too small. It was full of teenage kids on holiday. The breakfast was only so-so. But overall I would recommend this trip for the itinerary. It was too bad the Blue Lagoon was closed due to earthquakes but we got to go to the Secret Lagoon which was wonderful.

Iceland Northern Lights & Golden Circle

Brilliant trip that included all the highlights of Iceland!

4 Day - Northern Lights, Snæfellsnes & Glacier Lagoon

Our first and second days were to tour West Coast and Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Our guide/driver was knowledgeable and took us to see all the points of interest. On the second morning, due to the weather condition we started at midday, he still got us to see every thing on the itinerary. On the first night we stayed late to look for northern lights until past midnight, the guide was with us the whole time checking on the forecast. Because of the not so perfect condition, we didn't see the lights after all. The second part was to the South Coast, Ice Cave, Skaftafell and Jokulsarlon Ice Lagoon. We had a different guide/driver. On his first day, we visited waterfalls, etc. and he managed taking us to Jokulsarlon Ice Lagoon to see the ice crystals on the beach. He announced that the Ice Cave tour was cancelled due to water in the cave and told us that we should request refund by the company. He said the next day, due to storm coming we had to leave the hotel by 7:30, going back straight to Reykjavik. That night when asked about chance to see northern lights, our tour guide said that he would pay attention to it until 11 before going to bed, but for any questions we could find him in his room before 11. He just pointed out a general direction for us but didn't tell us the exact location we should go to look for the lights. At 10:30 that night, we finally got to see the lights albeit a little late to catch the best part when we heard noise in the hallway and followed people from other tour groups to the right spot. Our impression was that our guide was not interested in helping us to view the northern lights although the northern lights were the main attraction for this particular tour and clearly the occurrence of the lights had been forecasted for the time. We understand that northern lights are natural phenomenon and we may not be able to see it on our tour but when there was forecast for it, our tour guide should really helping us to look for it or give us detailed direction for the exact location to view.

5 Days Land of Northern Lights

Had a great time, beautiful sightseeing (including Northern Lights 4 times), fun group of people and very knowledgeable tour guide!

What people love about Iceland Tours in April

We had great time in Iceland. Our tour guide Peter was spontaneous and knowledgeable about his country. He made sure that we could witness the Aurora Borealis and we did! We highly. Recommend this tour to anyone who wants to visit Iceland. Our accommodations were also wonderful. Thanks GJ travel.

Destinations

• South Iceland April 2025 (38)
• Iceland South Coast April 2025 (24)
• Northern Lights April 2025 (14)
• Iceland Golden Circle April 2025 (13)
• Iceland Northern Lights April 2025 (12)
• Iceland Ring Road April 2025 (10)
• Scandinavia Northern Lights April 2025 (9)
• West Iceland April 2025 (5)
• Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon April 2025 (5)

Regions in Iceland

• South Iceland (38)
• Iceland South Coast (24)
• Northern Lights (14)
• Iceland Golden Circle (13)
• Iceland Northern Lights (12)
• Iceland Ring Road (10)
• Scandinavia Northern Lights (9)
• West Iceland (5)
• Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon (5)
• Spring 2024 tours (76)
• Summer 2024 tours (180)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 tours (194)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 tours (127)
• Spring 2025 tours (126)
• Summer 2025 tours (62)
• Fall / Autumn 2025 tours (75)
• Winter 2025 / 2026 tours (40)
• Iceland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Iceland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 10 Day Iceland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• What is the best time to visit Iceland in 2024/2025?
• Weather in Iceland in 2024/2025

Visiting Iceland in April: Everything you need to know

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Iceland is a land of extremes. It’s a country of fire and ice, where glaciers, geysers, and hot springs abound. And it’s a place where you can witness some of the most incredible natural phenomena on earth. If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit the country, then our complete guide to visiting Iceland in April will be helpful!

Continue reading to find all the practical information from spring packing, driving, and road conditions, to tours, special events, festivals, and budget – everything covered and answered in this post.

Visiting Iceland in April: Travel Tips + Things to do in Iceland in April

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

We have explored Iceland in different seasons, and still feel that a crossover month or the shoulder season is the best time to visit. 

The beauty of visiting Iceland in spring or fall is the ability to experience a variety of weather conditions and seasonal activities – imagine chasing northern lights, ice cave tours, and longer hours for spending time outdoors and photography! 

April in Iceland is considered a transition month and the spring season. This is when the snow has melted in cities and main towns, roads are clear, and temperatures are slowly getting warmer. 

But summers have not knocked at the door yet. 

And summers are a busy period, particularly from July to August – prices are sky-high, accommodation and car rentals are expensive and for the most part, you can’t enjoy winter-cold related activities.

Here is a little snapshot of what the weather looks like in Iceland in all months of the year and its pros and cons.

Snapshot: Iceland Seasons

What season is Iceland in April – Experience Spring in Iceland 

Iceland experiences all 4 seasons, and April is a spring month. 

During this time, you can expect major cities/towns to be filled with greenery – flowers are slowly blooming and gardens are getting back to life. 

As far as natural landscapes go, they are open to visitors. You will find receding snow on most hiking and viewing platforms. 

Attractions like black sand beaches and coastal areas will still be windy, and slightly cold. 

Near waterfalls, you can also expect it to be chilly and you must wear waterproof clothing to keep yourself dry and warm! 

Here is a photo from Reykjavik. Lots of greenery in and around the church making it gorgeous! 

This photo from the Arctic botanical garden from Akureyri shows the early signs of spring. 

You won’t see flowers in full bloom all across the country, but there will be a myriad of colors waiting to welcome you – from pretty yellows, and nude browns to spots of snow whites here and there! 

Iceland April Weather and Temperatures

• Average Temperature (Low) 3 degrees Celsius (39 F) 
• Average Temperature (High) 7 degrees Celsius (44.6 F)
• Rain in Iceland – Rain is possible in Iceland in April – around 14 to 15 days but it is not a heavy downpour – just drizzle (with some snow)
• Iceland April northern lights possibility – Chasing northern lights in Iceland are possible in the early weeks of April

Reasons to visit Iceland in April

April and generally spring months are one of the best months to visit Iceland for many reasons. Let me list them for you!

• April is an offseason in Iceland

Better deals on flights, hotels, and travel packages to Iceland

• Almost most of the tours in Iceland in April are still operating
• Experience the best of early summer and late winter conditions 

Festivals in Iceland in April

April is off-season in iceland.

April isn’t the busiest month in Iceland. In fact, travelers are waiting for the summer months to kick in and that’s when they plan to venture to Iceland. But……hotels and car rentals will be pricey if you don’t book early in the summer! 

In contrast, springtime will be a breeze! 

During my trip, it was super easy to find accommodation and I scored 4-star hotels for a low mid-budget range (around $95 to $110 USD per night).

In Reykjavik, I was also offered an upgraded suite for free – because it wasn’t busy! Here is the hotel I stayed in – Center Hotels Plaza.

Off-season doesn’t mean low customer service and no one to find for assistance. It is actually the opposite. 

Because there are no long line-ups, people/servers/hosts take extra time to connect with you – strike up a conversation, help you out when you’re on your trip, and more!

I was traveling alone in Iceland in the spring months, and everywhere I went – cafes, on tours, the hotel staff to guides, everyone was attentive and nice! 

Take advantage of the season before the madness of the summer season kicks in. 

Continuing with off-season benefits, know that hotels will be reasonably priced – much cheaper than the summer or winter months. 

You can find great accommodations in Iceland in April generally. Get your hotel/ accommodation deals right here.

If you prefer Airbnbs, here is a list of the best Airbnbs in Iceland

But the list doesn’t stop here. Flights are also comparatively cheaper. When flying from the USA, Canada, or Europe, you can find stellar deals to fly to the Keflavik Airport in the spring. 

IcelandAir comes out with flight deals every three months or so for its North American flyers (US & Canada), so keep an eye out for that. 

Iceland Tours in April

Almost all of the guided tours in Iceland are still in running in April. Classic day tours like the Golden Circle and South Iceland tours were operating as normal when we were in Iceland.

We saw rainbows over the waterfalls, walked over black sand beaches, experienced some light flurries on our way, and also enjoyed some sunshine at the glacier walk. 

Multi-day tours to North Iceland are also possible in April. North Iceland’s most stunning sights, such as Lake Myvatn, and the waterfalls Dettifoss and Godafoss, etc are open to visitors. 

Access to the Snæfellsnes peninsula in West Iceland via road is also possible in April. In fact, my tour guide mentioned that traveling there in early spring or late winter is not advisable due to poor visibility and road conditions. 

Keep in mind that services (washrooms, etc.) in natural sites may still be closed in April and May in Iceland due to the low season. 

Whale watching and northern lights tours are offered in April as well, especially in northern Iceland. 

Other winter tours like ice caves, snowmobile, super jeep tours, and glacier lagoon hike tours are also offered.

Take a look at all the exciting tours that Iceland has to offer 

• Classic Golden Circle Tour – One of the most popular tours is the Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik. In the golden circle route, one can explore the Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and the stunning Gullfoss waterfalls. Click to view this tour
• South Coast Tour: Another popular excursion is the full-day South Coast tour which includes picturesque waterfalls near Reykjavik such as Skogafoss, and Seljalandsfoss with a stop at the village of Vik and the black sand beach of Reynisfjara. Here is the South Coast of Iceland tour.
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik – Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon is an easy day trip idea from the capital city. Book this tour here
• Ice Cave tour options – There is still time to enjoy ice cave tours in April. You can choose from a variety of ice cave tours including a full-day trip starting from Reykjavik – Langjökull Glacier Ice Cave Walking Tour. Or 3-4 hour expeditions to Vatnajökull Glacier or Jökulsárlón
• Whale watching tours : Whale and puffin watching tours are open in Iceland in April. They can be booked as half-day/3-hour tours from either Reykjavik or Akureyri
• Northern lights tours : You can see the northern lights in Iceland in April (early weeks). In northern Iceland, it is said to be visible at night, even in the month of May.  This tour leaves from Reykjavik and it is open for bookings up to the 15th of April.

Full list of Iceland tours by budget and season here

All the geothermal spas in Iceland are open, from the Blue Lagoon to Sky Lagoon and the Myvatn Nature Baths. 

Do check the hours when planning your trip as they usually have fewer hours as compared to summer months.

Experience the best of early summer and late winter conditions

There is a reason why off-seasons like spring and fall are the best times to explore a destination, and in Iceland, it makes for a better experience. 

Days are longer for activities and photography, but attractions and sites are not crowded with people. And this means cheaper rentals and hotels. 

As the temperatures are slightly cold, you can still chase northern lights, or go on ice-caving tours, winter and glacier hikes, and more! 

Although a slow tourist season, Iceland has a cool line–up of festivals in April. Here is what you can expect

• Reykjavík Blues Festival – This is a Blues Festival that takes place in Reykjavik. You can sway to the music of artists from Iceland, Europe, and North America.
• Music concerts show at Harpa Concert Hall – In April, you can check out music fests and concerts all month long at the Harpa Concert Hall. 
• First Day of Summer Festival or Sumardaguvinn Fyrsti : The First Day of Summer festival actually kicks off in April, when Icelanders shake off the short and cold winter days to ring in the new season. This festival takes place on the first Thursday after April 18, annually.
• Celebrate Easter

Things to do in Iceland in April: What to expect in April in Iceland

Iceland in April will be a fun experience for you. You have all the natural attractions and landmarks open for you to explore at a reduced price tag! 

Here is what you can expect and do in Iceland in April,

Check off the classic attractions – the Golden Circle route and the south coast

Hit the iconic sites such as the Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park, Geysir geothermal areas, and the beautiful Gullfoss (waterfalls). 

April is a good time to enjoy the crisp air and go on hikes. These spots won’t be busy so you can surely snap a photo of the Strokkur geyser (that erupts every 30 minutes or so) with ease!

The same goes for the stunning waterfalls near Reykjavik such as Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss – you won’t experience a huge rush of tourists there.

In contrast to the south coast, and the popular Golden Circle, the West coast and northern Iceland tours (Godafoss and Myvatn Lake) will be very quiet in April. 

During my trip, there were just a handful of people in late April, but in the early days of the month, there was hardly anyone around. 

If the site has amenities such as cafes and souvenir shops, they remain open all year round – so you will find the staff on duty for service. 

If they only had washrooms on-site, they may be closed until late May/June or the summer months. 

Enjoy Iceland Ring Road trip highlights

Although I enjoyed day tours in April (yes they were operating) but you can easily embark on your own little self-drive Iceland excursion. 

All of my tours were small group tours (1-5 people) and sightseeing was a breeze. I was lucky to find a spot by the driver’s seat to enjoy a ‘road trip’ and learn more about Iceland’s unique landscapes and traditions! 

Roads were in good condition across the country in April, and the Ring Road had fewer vehicles. So driving will not be an issue. 

Having said that, when you detour to smaller towns or natural sites away from the Icelandic Ring Road, you may encounter dirt roads and uneven paths that were not maintained/taken care of after the winter months. 

Go on whale watching tours | Whale watching in Iceland

April kicks off whale watching time in Iceland, and this goes on until September. During this time you can spot several species of Cetacea on the south coast and beyond. 

Whale-watching tours are conducted in 2-4 hour excursions and you can book them from Reykjavik and Akureyri. Because it is like a half-day tour, you can either join them in the morning or afternoon. 

If you were unable to sight any whales on the day of the excursion, then you can rejoin the tour on the next available day. 

Note: You can hop on a puffin-watching tour from late April to early May months in Iceland. 

Seal watching in Iceland

From whales, and puffins to seals, you can see it all in Iceland. 

If you wish to see seals, April is also a good time, and you don’t have to join a cruise boat for that. 

There are popular natural attractions such as Ytri-Tunga (Snaefellsnes peninsula) and the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon where you can spot seals hanging out and soaking in the sun at the beach. 

When you visit seal-watching areas, be mindful of your surroundings and do not disturb the natural habitat of these cute animals!

Soak in the healing waters of Iceland 

One of the bucket list things to do in Iceland is soaking in the warm mineral waters. You have lots of options to choose from – man-made lagoons to au natural ones in the midst of nature. 

In April you won’t have any difficulty in booking a spot in the popular Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon Spa.

Although they operate on a short schedule, they are open in all swing. You can soak in warm water (full of minerals) while there is a slight drizzle or even white flurries outside. 

Other popular hot pools include the Secret Lagoon, Myvatn Nature Baths , Seljavallalaug, and Husafell Canyon Baths . 

They are all built or located near geothermal bodies, so the water here is warm and filled with essential minerals that are good for your skin. This warm water keeps you toasty even when it is cold or raining outside.

When I was in Iceland, I enjoyed the geothermal waters at various times of the day – mornings (10:00 am), afternoon (02:00 pm), and late evenings (04:00 pm) and it was just magical each time! 

If you are visiting natural hot pools like Seljavallalaug, be mindful of the trail and the pool itself. These are not maintained and you must exercise caution when using them. 

As April is a cross-over month in Iceland, you will get decent daylight to travel and take pictures. 

Go on walking tours in towns, and hikes 

Daylight hours start at 07:30 am (approx) and it is bright and nice until the sun sets at 08:50 pm. This allows you to get great pictures of Iceland’s natural gems.

This also means it is great to go on walking tours or enjoy guided food tours in Reykjavik in the evening. 

The temperature outdoors is pleasant enough to walk outside with a light insulated jacket and a beanie (and this comes from someone who is always cold!). 

The same goes for hikes. Popular hiking trails, garden paths, and viewing areas will all be accessible in April. 

Just like with any hike, ensure you are wearing proper hiking shoes before you hit the trails. 

If you are embarking on hikes with an elevation/steep area ensure you have to carry your trekking poles and go slow. As always follow local guidelines before you go. 

Join ice cave tours in April

Touring an ice cave is one of the most unique and unforgettable experiences that Iceland has to offer. Thankfully you don’t have to visit in the dead of winter to join these tours.

Places like the Vatnajökull National Park are home to some of the most popular and accessible ice caves in Iceland and they offer excursions (half-day to full-day tours) led by an expert guide. 

Vatnajökull glacier is Europe’s largest, and its vast expanse houses a number of smaller glaciers, each with its own system of rivers and tunnels. 

One such glacier is Solheimajökull, which flows down from the mighty volcano Eyjafjallajökull. 

This particular ice cave has been featured in many social media and is known for its dramatic entrance.  

When you join a tour, you will be provided with protective gear. 

Another popular option for cave tours is the Katla Glacier Cave , located in the Myrdalsjökull glacier near the town of Vik. 

This cave offers travelers the opportunity to explore an otherworldly landscape of towering black basalt columns and gleaming white walls of ice. You can book this excursion that combines ice caving and a Super Jeep tour .

Enjoy heli skiing in North Iceland

Enjoy heli-skiing in Tröllaskagi in northern Iceland. 

April is the perfect time with warmer temperatures and still some snow in high altitudes creating ideal conditions for gliding and taking in stunning views of Iceland.

The heli-skiing season typically starts from the end of February to June. With the continual daylight of the Arctic Sun overhead and mild temperatures, you will find favorable snow conditions until the advent of summer in June. 

Now the conditions may vary when you visit from fresh powder to extreme snow, but you are guaranteed to love the gorgeous scenery.

Experience all seasons in a day in Iceland in April in this transition month

April is not cold as compared to other transition months – October. It is mostly dry but still windy. 

One of the benefits of visiting Iceland during a crossover month is to be able to experience all seasons  – there are warm temperatures where you can shed extra layers and enjoy a nice walk or a hike.

And then take in the beauty of snowy landscapes on an ice cave tour, or from a hot pool. 

Plus the possibility of northern lights and seal and whale watching makes it an amazing time to explore Iceland (in April). 

When exploring Reykjavik or Akureyri, there will be moments when you will be cold (mainly due to the wind) with single-digit temperatures. 

But there will be hours in the day when you will be very warm, and will want to take off your layers. 

The weather overall is manageable to enjoy the city on foot, with less crowd on the roads. But you must carry a waterproof jacket and hiking shoes to have a great time!

It is unlikely that you will see snow, and northern lights in the summer months, and winters will be cold with poor visibility on the roads – so plan to visit Iceland in a transition month!

Things to know before your visit to Iceland in April

Before you book that trip, there are a few quick tips for a smooth trip to Iceland in April

Weather in Iceland in April

April is a cross-over and a transition month in Iceland. As for the weather, you can expect the temperature to be as low as 3 degrees Celsius (39 F) and a high temperature of around 7 degrees Celsius (45 F).

With each passing day, the daylight hours will be longer and longer. Sunrises at 07:30 am at the start of the month, which are the early weeks of April. 

As we go further along the way, sunrises after 07:00 am or earlier. 

The photos below were taken between 06:00 am to 06:30 am in Reykjavik (the second half of April). It looks bright and nice but the sun is not completely out yet. 

The complex at Hallgrímskirkja was empty in the morning, and you can expect people walking by from 08:00 am onwards when cafes open up nearby. 

Similarly, the sun sets at 7:45 pm at the start of the month. And as we progress, the days are longer and longer and it is dark only after 09:45 pm or so by the end of April. 

You will need a waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes with you at all times of the month, especially as you will venture into the natural sites where rains, snow, and wind conditions are still possible. 

When I was exploring northern Iceland, it was dark sooner (like 08:00 am) and also cooler as compared to southern Iceland. 

Rain is always a possibility in Iceland in April – usually a short drizzle or a quick pour. But this is not uncommon in Europe as most countries experience this in the spring months. 

Does it snow in Iceland in April?

Iceland’s weather is always changing. In April you will still see landscapes such as glaciers and highlands in snow. 

There is snow and ice in scattered spots across the country. But heavy snowfall is rare. 

During the early April weeks, you might see an occasional snowfall, but it clears up soon due to the warm temperatures. 

Can you ski in Iceland in April?

The ski season in Iceland is from late December to early April. However, the snowfall in February and March determines if at all skiing is possible in April. 

If your MAIN goal is to go skiing in April, I won’t recommend Iceland for that.

Where to go skiing in Iceland? Northern Iceland is home to Hlíðarfjall which has been one of the prime areas for skiing. There are ski slopes and a resort with breathtaking views of the Eyjafjörður, and Icelandic mountains here.

Driving in Iceland in April – Can you drive around Iceland in April

Driving on the Ring road in Iceland is an amazing experience. The views from your car seat are mesmerizing and the attractions are accessible. 

And driving in April shouldn’t be an issue for anyone who is not used to Icelandic F roads. Roads are clear of snow or winter residue and the conditions are good. 

The Ring road is a beautiful and unique experience that everyone should try. When driving on Ring road, you will be amazed by the different landscapes. You will see glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, hot springs, geysers, and more. 

When venturing to smaller towns and away from the Ring Road you do need to exercise caution as you will be driving on bumpy roads and unmaintained paths – for the most part. 

Iceland is so beautiful and sometimes the best views are just by the roadside – like the image above taken near Akureyri from a car parking lot. 

Car Rental in Iceland 

Although April is not a busy season in Iceland, if you have a specific requirement for your vehicle, we do recommend making a reservation prior to your visit. 

You may also score a discount when booking online. Here are some helpful tips

• Check the weather forecasts (temperature, visibility, sunset, etc.)
• Check road conditions from local news (roadblocks, limited accessibility)
• An all-wheel vehicle (4-wheel drive) is nice, but not a requirement in April
• Get car insurance (CDW – collision damage waiver, gravel, and ash insurance)
• Wear seat belts and ensure there is enough gas and food in your vehicle
• Download offline maps in case you lose cell reception

Campervans or motorhomes can be rented around this time. Campsites operate on a winter schedule even in April, and it is possible that not a lot of sites will be open around this time. 

Take Tours in Iceland in October

If you don’t want to drive in Iceland, no problem. 

Small group tours are a great way to explore Iceland. In the offseason months, all tours are operating as usual. 

We still recommend booking tours early as sometimes they need at least a minimum number of participants to confirm the excursion. 

If you are a solo traveler you might find that for some tours at least a 2-person booking is needed if that’s the case I recommend reaching out to the operator so that they can help out. 

This often happens in unpopular routes during the offseason. It also happened during my trip to Akureyri, and when I reached the hotel – the lobby staff was able to arrange that for me 🙂

So this can be done easily from the hotel’s tour operator’s desk, especially in the offseason! 

Northern Lights in Iceland (early April)

The chances of sighting northern lights in April are very slim. Akureyri still advertises northern lights tours until May, and this region is your best bet if you are wanting to see the green Aurora Borealis!

When we were planning our trip to Iceland, we wanted to experience the Northern Lights so we visited Iceland in October . 

We were on a short trip for 3 days in Iceland , and were able to check it off our bucket list!

Note : To leverage your time here for Northern Lights, make sure you book the tour on your first day or so. It is weather dependent, so in case you don’t see it the first day, you can at least experience them the next scheduled day. 

What to pack Iceland in April

If you are convinced and ready to book that flight to Iceland in April, let me help you with packing as well! 

Remember Iceland is windy and cool at all times of the year – so windproof (+ waterproof) clothes are a must.

Umbrellas are almost useless here, due to the wind. But pack a poncho or waterproof jacket to stay dry and warm when you visit natural attractions. 

Make sure your daypacks and backpacks are waterproof as well. The same goes for your camera cover. 

Packing list: What to pack for an April Iceland trip

• 1 windproof- waterproof jacket – Here is my favorite – buy it here
• 1-2 light sweater/s – This will be useful for layering and for use indoors
• 1-2 thermal wear (top & bottom) – Pack inner thermals when visiting in the early days of April. Towards the end of the month, you won’t need it – unless you are heli-skiing or doing ice walks/ice cave tours. Shop long john/thermals here
• 1 waterproof pant/s – They are handy when skiing or when you are exploring waterfalls. Shop waterproof pants here
• Accessories – Warm scarf, a cute beanie or two
• Warm socks – Try these thermal socks available for both women and men
• Sturdy waterproof shoes or boots – I love my Timbaland waterproof boots. Check it out here

So that’s a wrap! We hope you found this post helpful in deciding if traveling to Iceland in April is worth it. 

April is indeed one of the best months to explore Iceland – experiencing the best of summer and winter activities, and everything in between.

Plus you are saving money on your trip!

I love visiting Iceland and I hope you get to Iceland soon and enjoy your visit as much as I did.

Other posts from our Iceland Travel Blog and Travel Guide

• Iceland Itinerary – 5 days in Iceland | 8 day Iceland itinerary | 10 day Iceland itinerary  
• Iceland Tip Planning – Travel Tips for Iceland – an extensive guide
• Iceland Tours – Everything you need to know about Iceland Guided Tours
• Iceland Winter Tours – Read about the top Iceland Winter Tours 
• Reyjkavik – Get the list of things that you can do in Reykjavik for free | One day in Reykjavik

Pin – Why visit Iceland in April – What to do in Iceland in April

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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April in Iceland | The Best Way To Do Iceland In April

April is an amazing month to visit Iceland . Not only is it the time when animal younglings are born (overloading the countryside with cuteness), but it’s  also the time when we start to see rapid changes in the weather! This means the first signs of spring, the first blossoms, and eventually, at the end of the month, the celebration of Iceland ’s National First Day of Summer.

There are a lot of festivals held in Iceland in April, and  you will have endless options for fun activities. Moreover,  road conditions get a lot better out in the countryside, so driving becomes a lot easier.   If  you enjoy the freedom of the open roads, we definitely recommend a  road trip  in April!

April is the perfect “in-between” month that gives you benefits of both winter and summer.   You’ll experience the smaller crowds and lower prices of winter but the increased daylight hours and activity options of the summer.   Case in point:  there will still be Northern lights but you can also enjoy  excellent whale watching tours, bicyling, and other summer-like activities.  Visiting Iceland in April is a trip you will never forget!

Weather in April in Iceland

The average temperature in April in Iceland is somewhere around 1°C to 7°C (about 34°-45° Fahrenheit),  which makes April the first month of the year above the freezing mark. The weather in Iceland is ever-changing.  That’s true for any month really, but especially for April.  We can easily experience sun, rain, snow and complete calm all in the same hour!

During early April we might have an occasional snowfall, but the warmer temperature means it doesn’t  stay very long.

Daylight in April in Iceland

The month of April brings about 13-16 hours of daylight with a noticeable change between each day. This is the month Icelanders say goodbye to the dark winters and hello to the bright summer months ahead.

Northern lights in April in Iceland

One of the great perks of traveling to Iceland in April is that the Northern Lights are STILL active. The main difference lies in the fact that now the daylight is taking over,  so you will need to go out at a later time to see the show. The reason?  We need a dark background sky to make them really shine and sparkle!

Still, you must keep in mind that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and they are not always present. Rain and clouds can also be in the way and make the sky less open for you to see them.  Nonetheless, if they are out and the sky is clear enough they are worth the wait!

If you book a Northern lights Tour you are taken to the best spot to see them, carefully picked by Northern Lights experts.  If the weather is bad you will most often be offered to reschedule or to get a refund.    Some tours also combine northern lights with another activity like hot spring bathing or glacier hiking, so even if you don’t see the lights you’ll still have a fun experience.

What to pack for April in Iceland

We really can’t stress this point enough. Dressing right for Iceland means d ressing in layers . The layer closest to you should be wool or thermals. Next, you should put on fleece, a sweater or  PrimaLoft ®,    and the third layer is for wind and rain proofing. If the weather surprises you with some sun you can always just take off layers.  It has been proven easier to take off layers you do have than to put on  layers you don’t!

Your Iceland in April Packing List should look a little something like this:

• Base Layer: Wool Underwear/Thermals
• Thick Socks (more pairs than for your usual trip)
• Mid Layer: Sweater, F leece or  Thermal Insulation Garment 
• Hiking Boots
• Water/Windproof Jacket
• Bathing Suit
• Lip Balm (you will know why when you land)

What to do in April in Iceland

Rent a Bike in Reykjavik

Enjoy the daylight April brings and roam around on a bike (when weather allows). This will give you an opportunity to cover much more ground and see Iceland’s colorful capital from a whole new angle. Some of our most loved spots include Grotta Lighthouse, Oskjuhlid, Grandi, Solfarid and Perlan .

Visit a Hot Spring

Late April might just be warm enough to visit some of the more remote ones.   If you aren’t up for some possible cold bathing action the Blue Lagoon , the Secret Lagoon,  Krauma, the GeoSea baths, Myvatn Nature baths and other official baths might be more your thing.  

Do the Ring Road

The roads have usually been cleared by April and taking a road trip is just the right way to celebrate Iceland’s ever-changing landscapes.

The Ring Road around Iceland is the most country’s most famous road trip.   It will give you views and memories for a lifetime. The landscapes will surprise you at every turn.  The beauty in Icelandic nature truly leaves no one untouched. If you don’t have time to do the full Ring Road,  Iceland Travel also offers multiple options for shorter road trips, both with a guided tour group and also on our  itinerary based self-drive tours .

Events and Festivals in April in Iceland

Eve FanFest on 12th to 14th April brings together thousands of fans from all over the world who come to celebrate their love for the EVE online games.  Participants meet fellow gamers, learn about new innovations and enjoy fun activities around Reykjavik .

Reykjavík Children’s Culture Festival begins at the 17th of April and is ongoing until the 22nd. Art&crafts, workshops, and performances all linked together through the common theme of youth are hosted around the city of Reykjavík.  It’s great fun, especially for families with young children. Check out the nearest library or Facebook for more intel.

First Day of Summer  (always the last Thursday in April)  might seem to be an event celebrated a bit too early,  but Icelanders will simply not change it. Street parades are held all around the country with Scouts and other organizations marching together under the Icelandic flag. You will see Icelanders sporting summer dresses and light colored outfits in praise of the day. Children get special summer-day gifts from their parents, usually things to enjoy outside.   Bubbles and music will be often be  floating around in the air.  This year the First Day of Summer is on the 25th of April.  

Aldrei Fór Ég Suður is a music festival held in Isafjordur in the Westfjords over the Easter weekend. Almost every big music act in Iceland has played at the festival,  and it just keeps getting more and more popular.   This festival is a real local event to connect with  Icelanders !

AK Extreme is a four-day snowboarding and music festival held in Akureyri in North Iceland . It brings together some of the best snowboarders in Iceland and the top acts in the music scene. Loads of fun!

Driving around Iceland in April

We mentioned earlier in this article that road trips are fabulous ways to explore Iceland in April.  The most commonly driven roads, like the ones you find in cities, towns or the Ring Road 1 will be open for driving and cleared of any snow,  but, if you are looking to get further into the highlands those F-Roads (or  interior mountain roads)  might still be closed.   Make sure to check the road conditions before heading out.

Since April has ever-changing weather,  a 4-wheel drive car will come in handy if you are driving far out from the city.

Ideal tours to do in April in Iceland

Whale Watching Tours

Horse Riding Tours

Snowmobiling Tours

Golden Circle Tours

Hot Spring Tours

Glacier Hiking Tours

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Iceland In April 2024 | Ultimate Tips, Activities, Tours and MORE!

by Kev Shepherd

Are you planning a trip to Iceland in April? Read here to find out everything you can see, do and explore at one of the best times of year to visit.

Iceland should absolutely be near the top of your bucket list of places to visit in your life. It has everything any traveller could ever want.

Ok, maybe not soaking up the rays in the scorching sun but it tops that with breathtaking scenery, incredibly diverse nature, geological wonders, mindblowing adventure activities and breathtaking scenery.

Alright, I know I said breathtaking scenery twice but once you get there you’ll understand why.

Travelling to Iceland in April is one of the best times of the year to plan your visit. You have the benefits of longer days than the winter months and fewer crowds than the summer months. Depending on what you want out of your trip it might actually be the perfect time to visit Iceland.

Read More: Renting A 4×4 In Iceland – Everything You Need To Know

Pros Of Travelling To Iceland In April

In the middle of winter, you’re looking at an average of just over 4 hours of complete daylight per day. 4 HOURS!

In the middle of April that has risen all the way to nearly 15 hours and no complete darkness at all.

This might not sound like a lot but if you are trying to lose the crowds of summer and save money during the low season then this gives you plenty of time to see the sights.

April is still in the low season in Iceland so you’ll get all of the cost-saving benefits associated with a low number of tourists.

You’ll see lower airfare, accommodation and tour prices to name a few. If you have ever spoken to anyone who has been to Iceland then you’ll know that the one negative thing they always say is ‘it was bloody expensive though’!

Going to Iceland in April will massively help to reduce some of these costs and give you the opportunity to get the most out of your trip.

This is one of the biggest pros of coming to Iceland in April. All of the big tours are still available.

If you come any later then the ice caves are closed due to melting and tours for the Northern Lights are significantly reduced if not stopped completely.

April is the first month when temperatures actually begin to rise. You can expect average highs of around 5°C and average lows of around 0°C (32-41°f).

Yes, this is not particularly warm but it’s the best you can get if you to experience the best of both worlds, summer and winter.

It still rains on about half of the days in April however, it is considerably less than in the winter months.

Cons Of Travelling To Iceland In April

This is not really the worst of cons as you can easily just avoid the dates, however, many stores and activities will be closed on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Monday.

Places like restaurants and hotels will almost certainly still be open but I would avoid those days if you are coming for a short period of time to maximise the number of things you can do and explore.

Easter changes every year but a quick internet search should provide you with the dates for the coming Easter celebrations.

Because it is still very cold the snow and ice may still be blocking some of the routes north and will probably be blocking hiking trails and some of the remote natural hot springs.

In my opinion, you can still get to the very best places to visit in Iceland but it may be more expensive, for example flying to Akureyri for skiing or whale watching .

Things To Do In Iceland In April

There are literally so many things to do in Iceland in April. However, this is a complete list of the very best things to do and a brief explanation of how, when and the best place to do them.

The Northern Lights

Otherwise known as the Aurora Borealis, the Northern Lights has to be near the top of your list when you go to Iceland.

The legendary light show that illuminates the northern skies is one of the most incredible natural phenomena you can see anywhere in the whole world.

There are 3 important things that are essential for you to be able to see the Northern Lights: solar activity, clear skies and darkness.

When you get to Iceland, make sure that you frequently check an Aurora forecast website to maximise your chance of success.

If driving around chasing the best spots is not for you then you could grab a Northern Lights tour and let the operator do all of the work for you.

They will take you somewhere with the minimum amount of light pollution and at the best time of day. This has to be the most likely way to spot the Aurora when visiting Iceland.

Click here for the best Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik

If you are looking to see the Northern Lights in Iceland in April then I HIGHLY recommend that you travel in early April. Anytime past the 15th, it is incredibly difficult to see them. This is because Iceland no longer has actual complete darkness at any time of the day, which is the most likely time to see the show. There is still up to 2 hours of complete darkness in early April so make sure you plan your trip around this.

Golden Circle

Possibly the most famous trio of activities in Iceland, the Golden Circle is a must do when visiting Iceland in April.

It isn’t just because of their incredible beauty and natural wonder either, it’s also because of the relatively close proximity to Reykjavik.

Any traveller flying into the capital can very easily book a tour or simply drive a hire vehicle to the Golden Circle and witness exactly what Iceland is all about with very minimal effort and cost.

This is made even more tempting with the fact that entry to all 3 attractions is free.

Click here to check out the best Golden Circle Tour

The Geysir Geothermal Area comprises of the very first geyser ever to be discovered, hence why all other geysers around the world have this name (albeit with an e instead of an i).

You can walk around this small complex and witness steam seeping out of the ground and boiling hot water flowing down small shallow streams that are eerily green in colour.

The most spectacular attraction, however, is Geysir’s smaller brother Strokkur which erupts steaming water high into the sky every 5 minutes or so.

There are not many places in the whole world where you can witness this incredible natural phenomenon so do not miss this out of your Iceland in April planning.

You will almost certainly not see Geysir erupt as it very seldom shows any signs of life at all and can go decades being completely dormant. If, however, you are lucky enough to see an eruption, it can send water 120ft up into the sky. It may be almost completely unlikely to witness but here’s to hoping!

Read More: Dalvik Whale Watching – Complete Guide

Thingvellir National Park

If you have travelled to Iceland to get away from the 9-5 or to experience some peace and tranquillity then Thingvellir is definitely the place to visit.

Thingvellir has a rich history for the Icelandic people and much can be learnt from the visitor centre as well as walking around the park and reading the various information boards.

However, it’s not just for the history that people come to Thingvellir, the geology is also one of a kind.

Iceland is the only country on Earth where 2 tectonic plates meet above sea level. This means that you can literally see the two sides of the plates.

Thingvellir is one of the best places in Iceland to witness this as right from the car park you can walk through a small canyon and be between the Eurasian and North American plates.

If this still hasn’t convinced you to visit Thingvellir then you can also dive or snorkel the gap between continents at the Silfra fissure.

The water spends so long being filtered through the ground that when it arrives at the fissure you will get visibility of over 100m.

If you are brave enough to try this out then this will be an unforgettable experience no matter what else you do in your lifetime.

Check out the best snorkel tour available at Thingvellir national park!

Gullfoss is a huge powerful waterfall that falls off of an 11m step and a 21m step ledge into a large crevice in the ground.

This is one of the most powerful waterfalls in Iceland if not the most beautiful so be assured to be awed by the sheer sound and spray it creates.

Gullfoss is usually the last visit of any tour or simply the last as it is the furthest away from Reykjavik.

I recommend going, even if you don’t really like waterfalls, because of the close proximity to Geysir. It’s only 10 minutes away from Geysir so it would be a shame to miss it out.

If you are arranging an  ice cave tour  or a  snowmobile tour  close to Reykjavik then they will probably be picking you up at Gullfoss waterfall. If this is the case, this is an even better reason to give yourself a little bit of extra time to go down and see the falls.

If you are travelling to Iceland in April, or any other time for that matter, then you will definitely have heard of the many geothermally heated lagoons and hot springs dotted throughout the country.

There are large well-maintained tourist lagoons as well as much smaller more secret natural hot springs to find throughout the Icelandic landscape.

You can actually plan your entire trip around trying to find these secret spots and maybe even get to bathe in the middle of the mountains surrounded by nothing but your own company and the snow-peaked summits.

I highly recommend visiting the Blue Lagoon purely because of its incredible beauty and fame.

It’s so large that whenever you go you’ll be able to find a spot to relax all by yourself.

If you are more into nature and trying to find that secluded spot all by yourself then I recommend trying to find Landbrotalaug spring.

This gorgeous little romantic hot spring fits up to three people and is perfect to disappear from the buzz of the city for a short time.

Iceland in April is still quite cold and some of the natural hot springs are so remote that the snow may still be blocking the entrance.

Make sure that you check the road conditions and whether the hot springs are accessible before you travel.

This is the main reason why travelling to Iceland in April is perfect. If you were to travel one month earlier then there would be no puffins to see! One month later and the crowds begin to appear around the nesting areas.

If you’re not that into birds or nature then you can give this a miss if you want but I highly recommend that you don’t. There are so many places you can see them that will almost certainly fit in with your already planned trip.

For example, if you are planning on exploring the south-east coast of Iceland like many people do, then you can simply stop off at Dyrhólaey.

The puffins nest in the cliffs and around the huge natural arch formation and is a great place to see the puffins without having to alter your course to do so.

If you are visiting Iceland primarily to see the puffins then I highly recommend going to the Látrabjarg cliffs in west Iceland or taking a short boat ride over to the Westman islands off the south coast. Either of these locations will bring you the highest numbers and best photo opportunities you can get in Iceland.

In April there are two main places you will be able to grab a whale watching tour from, Reykjavik or Húsavík in the north . Check out our entire guide to whale watching in Reykjavik here or watch our video below to see exactly what you can expect!

If you are looking to see the most variety of whales, like blue whales and humpbacks, then you simply must venture north to Akureyri and its neighbouring towns.

That’s not to say that Reykjavik is bad, quite the contrary. You should be able to see whales from any tour out of Reykjavik, like minke whales, but the variety and quantity may not be the same. So if you simply don’t have the time to go north to Akureyri then a whale watching tour from Reykjavik is still a very good option.

Have a look at the best whale watching tour from Húsavík .

There are 2 things to consider. Firstly, if you are coming to Iceland solely for the animals then understand that April is the very beginning of the season for these kinds of tours so they may not be quite as fruitful as you may hope. I recommend coming  from June onwards  if this is your only goal.

The snow may not have melted enough to actually reach Akureyri in the north by the start of April. Always check the road condition before you set out to reduce risk and disappointment. If this is the case, you could always fly to Akureyri from Reykjavik.  Book a seat on the shuttle bus  from your accommodation to Keflavik airport.

Explore The South East

If you are coming to Iceland in April then you have to add this to your itinerary. The southeast has some of the best and most beautiful sights that Iceland has to offer and all of it will be completely accessible come April.

Treat this as a mini road trip from Reykjavik to Diamond Beach, stopping off at various sights along the way. Have a look at my complete road trip on Google maps below for some inspiration.

Head out of Reykjavik to your first stop at Seljalandsfoss waterfall. This is one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland as you can walk completely behind it and get some stunning pictures through the water.

After Seljalandsfoss, make your way down the coast to Skógafoss waterfall.

Skógafoss is conveniently very close to the Route 1 ring road so this stop shouldn’t take to much of your time.

However, the next stop at the Solheimasandur plane wreck is considerably longer. You used to be able to drive down to the plane but now you must walk. This walk is roughly 1 hour each way and I don’t recommend it if the snow is still thick due to safety reasons.

After Solheimasandur, I recommend stopping at Dyrhólaey to see the puffins on the cliffs and incredible panoramic views you get from the top.

Make your way round to Reynisfjara beach after Dyrhólaey to walk on the most famous black beach in all of Iceland. You can also get something to eat as this is a great place to find a restaurant with a view.

The penultimate location is Svartifoss waterfall which, like Solheimasandur, is a bit of a trek. Park up and take the incredibly beautiful trail up to the falls which is roughly 1.5 km each way. This is another long trek but luckily the last big walk of the day.

Lastly, make your way up to Diamond beach and finish your day with, I think, the most beautiful beach in all of Iceland. The jet black sand is literally covered in ice diamonds varying in size and shape. The contrasts between ice and black make it a truly memorable experience.

If you have got up very early then this will take you all day for sure. I recommend staying at Skyrhúsid Guest House which is only 10 minutes from Diamond Beach. If you have not been able to see everything in 1 day then simply stay here and see what you missed on the way back to Reykjavik the following morning.

Check Out The Reviews Of Skyrhúsid Guest House Here

April is a fantastic month to go skiing in the north of Iceland . There are many very well-made floodlit resorts that allow you to really experience skiing like never before, for example with the Northern Lights glittering above your head.

Not only that but there is a fantastic ski festival called AK Extreme which is basically people doing ludicrous jumps and tricks for the enjoyment of the crowds! If you can tie in your ski trip to Iceland in April with this festival then I highly recommend that you do.

If you are going to Iceland to go skiing then fly directly to Akureyri. If you fly to Reykjavik and the snow hasn’t cleared enough to drive to Akureyri then this could ruin your trip.

The following tours can only be done with a certified tour guide and trying to do them on your own is extremely dangerous and almost certainly illegal. So I have found the best tours for the following activities for Iceland in April.

• Glacier Tours
• Whale Watching
• Snowmobile Tours
• Snorkelling at Thingvellir
• Helicopter Tour

Tips For Travelling To Iceland In April

This is a big one! Iceland will still have snow on the ground and ice on the roads in April.

This means that you have to be extra careful whilst driving your hire vehicle, even on the main Route 1 ring road. There will also be places that you simply cannot go as roads may be cut off or closed.

Always check the conditions online before you go on any journey and if you come across an area where you do not feel safe then simply turn around.

However, I still recommend hiring a vehicle for your trip to Iceland in April as if you are careful then you should be completely fine. The freedom a vehicle gives you will allow you to see and visit many more places than if you were going to them all via tour or public transport.

Do NOT hire a 2 wheel drive to save money as they are not allowed on F-roads which hide some of the more beautiful places in Iceland.

Ignore people that say a 2×2 will be fine going on some of these roads as if you are the first person that screws up your vehicle then you’ll be facing a hefty fine. We hired a 4×4 vehicle in Iceland in November and I never felt in any danger at all.

Iceland has some of the best souvenirs in the whole world. Unlike other countries where you mostly just buy t-shirts and other assorted rubbish, Iceland actually has very good quality and stunning souvenirs to help remember your journey better.

Check out our guide to Icelandic souvenirs for more inspiration on what you can bring back to your loved ones.

Iceland is a photographer’s dream – and even if you’re not a professional, you’ll still want to capture the country’s beauty! You don’t need a crazy camera to get the good shots either – click on the link below to read more about our top camera recommendation!

The perfect travel companion! The Panasonic Lumix LX10 fits easily into your pocket, captures beautiful 20.1MP images, records gorgeous 4K footage, and does this all through the brilliant 24-72mm Leica lens. Level up your travel photography today!

Recommended Packing List For Iceland

Iceland is pretty cold all year round and, although it is starting to warm up in April, it is still pretty cold. Here are some fantastic products to ensure that the cold doesn’t ruin your trip to this wonderful country. Remember, Amazon has deals all the time so make sure to go through the links to see if you can grab a bargain.

If you are thinking of going into colder climates then you have to make sure you have a suitable jacket to go along for the ride. This ski jacket is waterproof and windproof which helps keep out the cold and a fleece lining which helps to keep in the warmth. The jacket is also extremely affordable compared to other brands meaning your comfort is no longer going to cost you an arm and a leg!

People often buy really good gloves, hats, boots, and jackets when they are going into colder climates but neglect the need for a good pair of waterproof/windproof trousers to go along with it. These brilliant fleece-lined trousers will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable for those long days in the freezing cold.

You can spend an insane amount of money on hiking boots if you want (trust me, I have) but, unless you're planning on travelling to the Arctic Circle, you simply don't have to break the bank. These amazingly diverse and adaptable boots by Columbia will handle everything you throw at them, whilst keeping your feet dry, warm, and pain-free!

If you really feel the cold but already have a decent jacket and insulated trousers , then you have to check out these fleece-lined thermal long johns and top base layer. These will fit under your outer clothes and give a massive increase to your warmth whilst paired with other quality winter wear. A must-have for someone who struggles with the cold.

If you need a pair of no-nonsense, warm, waterproof, and windproof gloves that will work with your touch devices then we highly recommend checking out these gloves. I recommend getting slightly larger than you think as the sizing is on the small size.

If you're going to be wearing boots, especially in colder climates, then you need to grab yourself a decent set of cold-weather socks. These thermal socks from HOT FEET don't break the bank and will keep your feet warm in some of the coldest weather. You also get 8 pairs!

A gorgeous 100% Icelandic wool hand-knitted hat to keep your head warm in the coldest situations. It would make a perfect gift/souvenir for anyone who is travelling to Iceland or has travelled to Iceland and forgotten to pick one up when they were there!

Cotton is the way to go to keep you warm on cold nights staring up at the beautiful starry sky, surrounded by ice and snow. This is from Amazon Basics so you're not paying a premium for a famous brand but you're still getting that thick cotton quality.

Jade prefers wearing ear muffs because it gives her more options to style her hair whilst also keeping her little ears warm. If that sounds like something you might struggle with then check out these fantastic ear warmers that come in a variety of colours!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does iceland have snow in april.

Yes. It is starting to reduce however there is still enough snow and ice that the roads to the north can still be closed or hazardous.

Does It Snow In Iceland In April?

There is a good chance of snow as it rains on average 18 days of the month. However, this will mostly be rain due to the slightly rising temperatures.

Does It Get Dark In Iceland In April?

The beginning of April does still have around 2 hours of complete darkness where you can still see the Northern Lights however towards the end there is no complete darkness, just relative darkness.

Will I See The Northern Lights In April In Iceland?

At the beginning of April, there is still enough complete darkness that the Northern Lights can be seen. However, you will also need clear skies and solar activity which cannot be forecast far in advance. These last 2 factors are mostly down to luck, however, this is the same throughout the year.

Can You Ski In Iceland In April?

Yes. Skiing in Iceland in April is a great time to go but I advise flying into Akureyri as the roads may be closed from the south.

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Have you been to Iceland in April and can think of something I have missed off my list? Are you going to Iceland in April and have a question? Please let us know in the comments section below!

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Iceland in April

Everything you need to know about April in Iceland

• Is April a good time?
• Wildlife in April
• What to wear
• Events & holidays

Related Tours

Related blogs.

April is known as one of the “convenient” months to visit Iceland because the trip here is cheaper, there are fewer crowds, and the weather is getting warmer. If you need more convincing, then continue reading this ultimate guide on what to do in Iceland in April.

April in Iceland offers fantastic opportunities. For the most part, the weather is still quite wintery. Nevertheless, by increasing daylight hours and giving us a few warmer days, nature is springing to life.

Fabulous contrasts can often be experienced. The bud leaves of springtime, snowy mountains, and the Northern Lights can still paint their visions of color above the scenery dusted in beautiful frost and snow.

Little harbor at Dalvik fishing village in Iceland

Is April a good time to visit Iceland?

April is considered to be the last month of the low season , so this time of the year comes with some travel advantages. Cheaper flights and accommodation mean that you get to save up, and fewer crowds allow you to enjoy famous attractions better. Iceland is famous for its repeatedly changing weather forecast, but in April, you can already enjoy longer and sunnier days.

April in Iceland – Fast Facts

• Accommodation is cheaper than in summer or winter: you can save as much as 30-50%.
• In Reykjavík, you get more than 13.5 hours of daylight on April 1st and more than 16.5 hours on the 30th of April. This is fabulous for seeing the sights and traveling around the country. In North Iceland, you get even more hours of daylight.
• Evening sightseeing and photography can be really special.
• On average, there is less ice and snow than in winter, so driving conditions are often better .
• Frost-glistening winter scenes can usually still be seen.
• The major attractions are all open, with the exception of some remote museums.
• With the feeling and smell of spring in the air, swimming outdoors is particularly fabulous.

WEATHER IN ICELAND IN APRIL

April often brings quite a variety of weather, from minus temperatures to days that are quite warm, with sunshine, rain, or snow. With temperatures usually rising and falling quite a lot, snow does not normally lay on the ground for very long, although there are exceptions.

Dressing in layers is the best way to go in Iceland, never more so than in April. We’d also recommend you check out the weather in Iceland before your trip.

The temperature in Iceland in April

Good news for warmth-seeking travelers, April weather is much “friendlier” compared to earlier months. The average low temperature during this time is -1.1° C (30 ° F), and the average high is around 6.8° C (44° F). If you’re not that much into intense heat, this weather should be great for traveling.

Sunrise at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Iceland

Daylight in Iceland in April

In April in Iceland, you'll get considerably more daylight than in winter, even if it's considered to be an off-season. The sunrise on April 1st is usually around 7:00 AM, and sunrise at around 8:00 PM. That's about 13 hours of daylight ! From mid-April, it can increase to more than 16 hours of daylight .

WHAT TO DO IN ICELAND IN APRIL

Now, onto the main question: what fun activities can you do while in Iceland during this month, and what attractions are waiting for you here?

Travel around Iceland

Not sure where to start? One of the greatest ways to get to know Iceland better is by going to its most prominent attractions. Iceland is well known for its Golden Circle , which includes the country's main attractions. And those who are here for longer and wish to see nearly everything that Iceland has to offer, travel its most famous route – Ring Road .

Glacier hike

You might have heard that the first day of summer in Iceland is at the end of April, but that does not, in fact, mean that the temperature will change dramatically. So if you’re dreaming of some winter activities, then it’s a perfect time to try one of the glacier hike tours . Here you’ll be able to see the icy side of the country and enjoy its scenic landscapes.

Whale watching

If you’re an avid nature lover, especially having a soft spot for marine life, then you’ll be happy to hear that April marks the start of whale watching season. A good place for whale watching tours is the city of Dalvik . Many come here specifically for a spectacle of different whales, such as minke or humpback whales.

Northern Lights

April is also a convenient season to be traveling in Iceland because, during this time, it’s still possible to see the Aurora Borealis . The Northern Lights season usually starts from September to April, as during this time, the nights are still dark enough (even though much shorter) to see this natural phenomenon. You’ve probably heard that chasing Northern Lights is only possible during certain conditions, so in this case, it’s best to book a Northern Lights tour .

What to do in Reykjavik in April

Panoramic view from Hallgrímskirkja church in Reykjavik

If you’re worried that there won’t be a lot of fun things to do during April in the capital, then put your worries aside, as the city offers a lot of different activities at this time of year. If you're wondering what to do in Reykjavik in April, here are some ideas:

• Walking the coastal pathways around   Reykjavík will show you the Icelandic nature springing into life. Seltjarnarnes, a fabulous peninsula and suburb on the edge of Reykjavik, should not be missed.
• Look and listen out for the golden plover, known in Iceland as the “ lóa .” When you spot your first lóa, you know spring has come.
• Visit Grasagardur , the Botanical Gardens. Whether you can see nature starting to flower, or the ground is still covered in snow, this place always feels so magical in April.
• On sunny days find a café or bar with a sheltered outdoor seating area. You will be surprised how lovely and warm it feels when you are out of the wind. Enjoy a local artisan beer, a great coffee or a slow meal outdoors. There are many great places, like Messinn , a fabulous fish restaurant offering outdoor or indoor dining.
• Wander between the parades and events on the First Day of Summer , Sumardagurinn fyrsti.
• Hire a bike and explore the many kilometers of designated cycle paths that lead around and out of Reykjavík.
• Enjoy the art at Kjarvalsstadir and get yourself a coffee or lunch. On sunny days the sheltered area outside the café is very pleasant.
• Make the most of the longer daylight to explore in cityscapes and Reykjavík harbor and waterfront in the evening.
• Photograph the magnificent sunsets. Those giant canvases of color will really enhance your shots.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland in April?

Northern Lights tour in Iceland

The   Northern Lights   are seen at night-time. And, as you’ve probably heard, daylight lasts longer in summer in Iceland. So, the best chance to see the Northern Lights in April is early in the month . 

In fact, while some winter months have the benefit of darkness for Northern Lights tours, they’re also colder, snowier and wetter than the spring/summer months. And inclement or overcast weather can put a dampener on a Northern Lights tour (no pun intended).

If you’re curious to know why you can't spot the Northern Lights during summer months, it’s because it needs complete darkness to be seen, and during summer, Icelandic nights are quite short.

Hallgrímskirkja - Lutheran parish church in Reykjavík, Iceland

WILDLIFE IN ICELAND IN APRIL

Iceland is already recognized for its breathtaking nature and its variety of landscapes. But what about its wildlife? It’s as special as it gets, and once you’re here, you get a perfect opportunity to spot some of the cutest and mightiest creatures of Iceland.

Man petting Icelandic horse

There’s a good reason why Iceland is called the capital of puffins. They can be spotted here from early April up until September. So opening the summer season with puffin watching can be an unforgettable experience because of how cute these little birds are. Before going puffin-watch, find everything there is to know about them in this guide on puffins .

Icelandic Puffin on a cliff

Besides puffin watching, another great animal to be on the lookout for during this time is whales. And the best way to spot them is by going on whale watching tours . During your trip to explore Icelandic marine life you get to see humpback and minke whales, porpoises, and dolphins.

In Iceland, the lambing season begins in April and continues into May. The best way to enjoy the lambs, and to collect some cute moments to cherish, is to stay on a sheep farm out in the countryside.

Farmer taking care of a newborn lamb

April is the time when many birds, such as whooper swans, geese, and white wagtails, return to Iceland. One of the places where you can spot them is near Lake Myvatn as this area is considered a protection sight for the birds.

WHAT TO WEAR IN ICELAND IN APRIL

Hiking in Iceland

When preparing for any kind of trip, one of the main questions posed is what to take with you and what to wear. Having in mind how unpredictable Iceland’s temperature is, the April packing list should first include the essentials such as thermal layers, water and windproof outerwear and waterproof hiking boots . 

Visiting Iceland can become a challenge if you’re not prepared right. The average temperature here is around 3°C (37,4°F) during April, so the best tip to keep in mind is to dress in layers. This way, you’ll keep yourself warm and comfortable and be able to easily remove or add more clothes according to the weather conditions and varying temperatures. 

For a more extensive guide on what to grab with you on your trip to the country, check out what to wear in Iceland .

DRIVING IN ICELAND IN APRIL

Gravel road at sunset with a view of Vestrahorn mountain, Iceland

Even though a lot of roads might be still closed in Iceland in April, the main road, Ring Road , is usually kept open. The road to famous sights, such as the Snaefellsnes peninsula , South Coast , or Golden Circle is quite easy to navigate during this season.

However, we advise you to use a four-wheeler for driving in Iceland. Also, don’t forget to check the official website for weather reports ( vedur.is ) and road conditions ( road.is ) . It’s important to assess your driving experience, weather, situation on the road, and other factors before getting into the driver’s position. In April, during the bad weather, the roads can become slippery, storms can cause limited visibility or even lead to closing highways.

So, if you want to be extra safe, try out guided day tours or multi-day tours where all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the scenery!

EVENTS AND HOLIDAYS IN ICELAND IN APRIL

Interested in immersing yourself in Icelandic culture right away? Then one of the best ways to do so is by attending its holiday celebrations and unique events. What are some of them that take place during April?

Excited couple travelling in Iceland

Sumardagurinn Fyrsti, or First Day of Summer

While April might seem more of a spring month, this is when the first day of summer is actually celebrated by Icelanders. When is it? Its exact date differs as the tradition states that the first summer day in Iceland is on the first Thursday after the 18th of April. Why so early? According to Icelandic history, the year was divided into two seasons: summer and winter. So, the second half of April marks the start of the summer. Now it’s recognised as an annual public holiday.

Easter celebrations for Icelanders mean an egg hunt, enjoying chocolate eggs, and having a delicious Sunday roast dinner, during which a lamb is served. If you’re looking for something fun to do during this family-focused celebration, you can follow Icelanders’ example and go skiing .

Children’s Culture Festival

If you’re traveling to Iceland with kids this time of the year, then you shouldn’t miss the Children's Culture Festival that takes place in the second half of April. This free festival is held in various places throughout the capital. Numerous events and exhibitions are created with or for kids. The main goal of this festival is to introduce them to culture.

Harpa concert hall and conference centre in Reykjavík, Iceland

Aldrei fór ég suður, or I Never Went South

Easter time marks another important event that has taken place in Iceland since 2004, this year celebrating 20 years of success. It’s a music festival, “Aldrei fór ég suður,” which translates to “I never went South.” The festival that was created by a musician and his son takes place in the West Fjords and invites various musicians to participate.

If you love sports and music, then there’s no way you’re missing the AK Extreme festival, which combines snowboarding and music. This multiple-day event takes place in Akureyri , providing you with the possibility to explore the capital of North Iceland and have a weekend full of action.

ICELAND IN APRIL FAQ

Is there snow in iceland in april.

While by this time, Icelandic winter is already retreating, the weather during this time is quite unpredictable, so you can see snow in April.

Is April a good time to go to Iceland?

This month is convenient for traveling as the weather is getting better, there are fewer crowds, so the accommodation and transportation tend to be cheaper.

Will I see the Northern Lights in Iceland in April?

If you decide to visit Iceland somewhere around mid April, there’s still a chance you’ll see the Northern Lights. But don’t wait too long as the days are getting longer and sunnier, a setting that is impossible for Northern Lights to appear in.

Can you see ice caves in Iceland in April?

It’s advised to explore ice caves during the cold season – from November to March or the beginning of April. Note that this activity can only be done with a guide who will ensure your safety. For more information, check out the best time to see ice caves in Iceland .

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Iceland in April – Events, and Activities, Where to go, What to Wear, and More

• Last Updated: December 12, 2022
• Viktória Komjáti

Iceland is a world of wonder any time of the year, with terrific activities and fascinating sights year-round. Visiting Iceland in April provides an excellent opportunity to travel on a low budget, avoid crowds, and experience a bit of every season.

April is one of the cheapest months to visit Iceland. It’s also a month full of stunning sunsets that marks the epic start of summer, where the seasons seem to be fighting a war. There are so many incredible adventures and things to do in Iceland in April, and here is our ultimate guide.

What to Expect When You Visit Iceland in April

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April in Iceland offers fantastic opportunities. The weather is primarily chilly, but with increasing daylight hours and some warm days, nature is springing back to life.

Visitors can often witness fabulous contrasts: the budding leaves of spring, snow-capped mountains, and the Northern Lights still paint their bursts of color above the frosty, snow-dusted scenery.

Iceland awakens from its winter slumber a bit later than mainland Europe, with grass and leaves appearing in mid or late April. Sometimes the snow doesn’t melt until May, but spring can arrive earlier in April in more fortunate years.

Spring is a time for renewal. The snow melts, and life returns. The landscape is primarily brown as it slowly reveals itself under the snow. Snowfall isn’t uncommon this month, and the weather is somewhat unpredictable.

Migratory birds return to Iceland in April, along with springtime travelers. You can still do winter activities, such as ice caving, Northern lights watching and skiing at the beginning of spring. These options become unavailable as the weather improves and darkness disappears from the night. As the snow melts, the roads become safer for driving.

April is a slow season in tourism. Flights to Iceland are cheaper than the rest of the year, and visitors can also score lower prices and terrific deals on accommodations and car rentals. The lower prices make the season an ideal time for budget travelers to discover the country.

If you prefer to avoid the tourist crowds and have a quieter vacation, visiting Iceland in April could be for you.

The Weather in Iceland in April

April is the first month of spring in Iceland, but it still feels like winter more than spring. Temperatures barely reach over freezing but can go as high as 5–8°C (41–46.4°F), while Northern Iceland remains colder. The wind speed continues to weaken as summer gets closer, and the precipitation is considerably less than during the winter.

Around the second part of April is when spring finally comes along. The winter temperatures rise as high as 8 degrees (46.4°F) on some days, but snow and frost aren’t uncommon, and the weather is notoriously fickle. Like in winter, expect the unexpected in spring: pleasant days with bright sunshine or gloomy days with sudden snowstorms.

April can get pretty wet, although it’s supposed to be better than March. Both rain and snow are possible, accumulating up to 58 mm of rainfall and about 12 days of rain. The average sunshine in April lasts 4-5 hours per day, so you have time to take some sunny pictures.

However, the wind is the biggest issue concerning April weather. The wind makes everything feel much colder, especially with rain or snow. Prepare yourself and pack accordingly for Iceland in April!

From the middle of April, the daylight is so long that nights turn completely bright by the end of the month. Daylight periods are 13 hours long in the first days of April and are over 16 hours around the last days, with a noticeable change every day.

April is the month Icelanders say goodbye to dark winters and hello to the bright summer months. The Aurora Borealis also eventually disappears. Starting in mid-April, there’s no longer any darkness at night. The white nights and the midnight sun replace the Northern Lights until the end of summer.

Until around the 15th of April, it’s possible to see the Northern Lights or Aurora in Iceland – if you’re lucky. There’s still some darkness at night; however, the sun sets very late and rises early, so dark periods occur well after midnight. As the days get longer, the night gets brighter until they stay almost entirely bright all night long, making it impossible to view the Northern Lights properly.

Read our complete Aurora Guide to learn more about your options and how to maximize your chances of seeing them.

Glacial caves are short-lived and ever-changing wonders. They form in early winter and stay stable throughout the season but will most likely collapse or get filled up with meltwater during the spring. When the meltwater returns, it destroys everything. And once an ice cave collapses, it will never return to the same form, but another ice cave can form in the exact location next winter. How exciting is that?

If you want to visit an ice cave inside a glacier in April, you’ll have to do so at the very beginning of the month. As temperatures rise, the ice caves can become unstable and too dangerous to visit. While most ice caves are closed in the spring, Myrdalsjokull glacier near the village of Vik has a cave that’s still open during April.

Since ice caves are located on glaciers, you can only explore them with a certified guide, so you’ll have to book a tour.

There are better times for camping and hiking in Iceland than in April. The conditions in the mountains are still very wintry, making it challenging and unsafe to hike. The Highland roads are closed until late June, meaning that the most popular hiking areas are completely inaccessible.

Avalanches can occur in the mountains due to rising temperatures, while the paths can become muddy and slippery at lower elevations. The vegetation is especially fragile in spring, so authorities often close off whole areas for vegetation protection.

Camping in tents is not recommended due to wintry conditions and unstable weather. On the other hand, campervan camping is more comfortable and safe at this time of the year. Many campgrounds will open again after the long winter, although most campsites remain closed until May. Please note that staying overnight in a campervan or any other vehicle is forbidden outside the designated camping areas.

Even though many minor and highland roads might still be closed in April, the main road, Ring Road, is kept open. The road to famous sights such as the Snaefellsnes peninsula, South Coast, or Golden Circle is easy to navigate during this month.

However, we advise you to use a four-wheeler for driving during this month. The roads can be very slippery and snowy, and closures are possible depending on what the weather decides to do. You can expect closures and difficult driving conditions if there’s a storm. But sometimes, April can also be lovely, with things melting, fine weather, and passable roads. You just never know with April, so be prepared for both situations.

If you want to be extra safe, try joining a guided day tour or multi-day tour, where all you have to do is to sit back and enjoy the scenery!

How to Travel Around in Iceland in April

First, think about your preferred mode of transportation for exploring Iceland. Guided tours and rental cars are the most popular options, but you can also rent a car with a driver for a private tour .

Traveling with a local guide is always your safest option. When joining a group tour, your tour guide will take care of you and ensure you’re well-equipped, well-informed, and entertained. You’ll also meet new people and form new and meaningful friendships.

Meanwhile, solo/independent travelers have more room for spontaneous, flexible, and budget-friendly plans. You can also save money when traveling without a guide. However, this also means you’ll have to plan, organize, and gather information about the destinations yourself. Self-drive exploration in April should only be done by those with experience driving in wintry conditions, and slippery roads.

Between these two options are tailor-made, self-drive packages . Your local travel advisor will create a full itinerary based on your preferences. They also take care of all your bookings, rental cars, lodging, and other activities. This is a perfect choice if you want to travel solo but don’t have much time for planning. Self-Drive and Road Tripping.

A customized self-drive holiday is perfect if you dream of exploring Iceland independently. All necessary bookings, such as rental cars and accommodations, are already handled while you can still enjoy the freedom and flexibility of driving around the country. Custom-made self-drive vacationing is rapidly gaining popularity among tourists.

Remember to check the road and weather conditions before your journey daily. You should expect all sorts of weather in Iceland in April; it can quickly change from one second to the next. The Iceland SafeTravel website is helpful; you should regularly check it for updates. Bad weather can cause you to restructure your plans for the day due to road closures, floods, avalanches, and other issues.

If a road is closed, don’t drive through it anyway—it’s closed for a good reason! Attempting to drive through closed roads puts you in danger and results in your needing to be rescued, which is also hazardous for the rescuers. Your insurance doesn’t cover towing fees and hefty fines.

Consider a car with a driver’s guide instead. Doing so allows you to go wherever and whenever you want with the help of an experienced local driver at the wheel. Any privacy you lose could be well worth it for convenience and safety.

Day Tours from Reykjavík

Many visitors use Reykjavik as a base and discover Iceland on day trips. This is a great way to explore the nation without extensive driving while still being able to return to your cozy and comfortable accommodation. You can reach most of Iceland’s headline attractions through day trips, especially the south and west of the country.

We’ve compiled a list of the top day trips from Reykjavik to help you plan your next winter getaway.

Find more options here

Best Things to See and Do in April

Sightseeing and exploration.

Lots of places offer fantastic sightseeing opportunities during April.

You must visit the always-popular Golden Circle , which features some of Iceland’s top natural attractions. April is an ideal time to explore the tourist route without dealing with crowds.

Thingvellir National Park is usually the first stop from the capital. Full of fascinating geological formations and scenic landscapes, it’s home to the Silfra Fissure—the gap between the Eurasian and North American continental plates. Not only that but the fissure is also steeped in history – it’s the founding site of one of the world’s longest-running parliaments since 930 AD.

Make sure you stop at the Geysir Geothermal Area. Wafts of steam and bubbling water break the snowy ground, with the surrounding earth having striking bold hues. Watch in awe as the mighty Strokkur Geysir sends a powerful jet of hot water into the air every five to ten minutes.

Of course, don’t miss the beautiful Gullfoss Waterfall, where the water cascades over two levels to enter a rugged scenic gorge. To learn more about the rest of the significant highlights and hidden gems, read our complete guide to the Golden Circle route and its wonderful attractions.

After the Golden Circle, the South Coast is the other most popular tourist route in Iceland, so it is definitely recommended to visit. You’ll find several mesmerizing waterfalls, dazzling glaciers, striking black sand beaches, and a gigantic lava field. Don’t miss the shimmering géacier lagoons dotted with small icebergs too. Again, April is an ideal time to explore these popular natural attractions without crowds.

Driving nonstop from the capital city to the lagoon would take around four and a half hours, but, of course, you’ll stop plenty of times along the way to visit Iceland’s most scenic places, such as the infamous Eyjafjallajökull volcano (known for its 2010 eruption that stopped flights), the epic Vatnajökull National Park, the giant Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, the enchanting village of Vik, and the striking black sand beach at Reynisfjara, just to mention a few places. Here is an in-depth guide to the top attractions of Iceland’s South Coast.

Lesser-Known Gems to Visit in Iceland in April

The gorgeous Reykjanes Peninsula and Snæfellsnes Peninsula are underrated regions, even though they offer fantastic natural attractions and landscapes.

The Reykjanes Peninsula is a fantastic place outside the capital with geothermal activity. It’s where you’ll find the Blue Lagoon , Iceland’s newest volcanic eruption sites, and Keflavik International Airport!

Reykjanes, also known as the Smokey Peninsula, is where the Eurasian and North American continental plates meet. Because of this, more minor seismic activities and earthquakes are every day. You can also find hot springs spouting boiling water all around the peninsula.

Rough, dark lava with mossy tops cover the entirety of the peninsula. The colors are genuinely fascinating, ranging from dark grey to red to turquoise blue. Thanks to those colors, Reykjanes is a photographer’s paradise. Its vast views and smokey mysteriousness genuinely add to the visiting experience.

Due to its landscape diversity, this area is nicknamed “Iceland in Miniature.” Some of its most famous attractions are Ytri Tunga beach which features a seal colony; the picturesque Londrangar basalt cliffs; the mighty Snaefellsjokull glacier, the quaint fishing villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar; and the Kirkjufell mountain, among many others.

There’s so much to see here that we’ve listed the main attractions in our guide for top places on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

April is still winter in the Highlands so accessing this area in springtime is only possible if you’re on a Super Jeep tour. Tours use these vehicles to conquer the thick snow and icy rivers, with skilled drivers who can find their way around in the most challenging conditions.

Bathing in naturally warm water is a centuries-old local tradition. Heated swimming pools and luxury spas eventually took over. However, some natural hot springs still exist and are considered local secrets. Soaking in mineral-rich geothermal water has many health benefits. It is a genuinely unique, rejuvenating experience that we highly recommend to anyone visiting Iceland.

Reykjadalur valley , 45 km (28 mi.) away from the country’s capital city, features a warm river that winds through the center of the valley. If you prefer a more accessible location, consider the famous Blue Lagoon or one of the newer geothermal pools, such as the Sky Lagoon or Hvammsvík hot springs . So relax, unwind and recharge like a local! See the selection of geothermal tours here.

Visitors can enjoy diving and snorkeling worldwide, but Iceland is where you can dive or snorkel between two continental plates . Silfra Fissure, a natural rift between the North American and Eurasian plates, is filled with fresh water.

Divers from all over the world come to Iceland to experience Silfra Fissure. It is uniquely located between two continental plates. It has the most transparent fresh water and the most outstanding underwater visibility in the world. It’s no wonder that Silfra is on everyone’s bucket list!

You only need to sign up for a diving or snorkeling tour. That way, you can safely experience the incredible sensation of being in a tectonic plate gap.

While you can hike an Icelandic glacier at all times of the year, April offers an exceptionally breathtaking adventure. As the snow melts from the glacier, it uncovers the naked, blue glacial ice, shimmering and sparkling in the sunlight.

There are two main glaciers you can enjoy hiking in April: Solheimajokull Glacier near Vík in the south and Vatnajökull further to the east. Go with an experienced local guide to discover many interesting facts about Iceland’s fascinating geology.

One of the most exciting activities you can do in Iceland is snowmobiling. The country offers several incredible virgin ice caps, which you can easily explore at high speeds on a snowmobile without needing physical exertion.

Vatnajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Langjökull ice caps are the three top snowmobiling spots in Iceland. A visit to Langjökull is often combined with the Golden Circle sightseeing route, so you can do both in one day if you wish! Glacier snowmobiling is possible all year round in Iceland.

Lava caving is another great year-round activity. The unusual caves are filled with impressive icicles and natural ice formations in winter that still lasts during the first weeks of April.

Water drips slowly through the porous lava rocks throughout the year. This water freezes when the temperatures drop over the winter, causing magical mini-stalactites to form. Some water drops that make it to the ground also freeze, creating enchanting ice shapes. The icy, glittering effect certainly makes for amazing photo opportunities.

You’ll be provided a helmet and crampons for your tour, though you should be confident walking on slippery, uneven ground.

The spectacular lava caves at Raufarholshellir and Vidgelmir offer wide-open spaces that clearly define walkways for you to enjoy the sights. You won’t need to climb or crawl. They are recommended for visitors who want to experience a lava cave but need to be more comfortable walking across the ice.

The Icelandic horse is the most famous four-legged resident of Iceland. This breed is well-known for its tiny stature, short legs, and muscular build. It’s also renowned for its five gaits, its ability to resist the harsh Icelandic climate, and its reliability.

The Icelandic horse was once both an essential method of transport and a working tool, and it still holds an important place in the traditional Icelandic lifestyle. Today, these beautiful animals are used for leisure activities; exploring Iceland on horseback allows you to see areas you can’t access on foot or by car. This is a true adventure that you should take advantage of. Find horse riding tours here.

Super jeeps or monster trucks, with their oversized tires, have been gaining popularity as they are the best way to drive safely in snowy, icy winter conditions.

With a regular car, you can’t reach certain areas of the country in April. But with a super jeep, you can go to the most remote places in Iceland or even the more remote corners of the Icelandic Highlands.

There are super jeep day tours that go to many different locations. These tours suit everyone as they are safe and secure and employ expert guides.

You can find over twenty species of whale, dolphin, and porpoise off the coast of Iceland, making the country a top destination for whale watchers. Boat tours leave from Reykjavík or Akureyri, but the most successful tours leave from Húsavík and Dalvík.

You can spot humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins, and harbor porpoises almost daily. A few lucky visitors will also have the chance to see other species, including orcas, fin whales, blue whales, or even narwhals. There are also a variety of seabirds, including skuas, Arctic terns, guillemots, and the colorful, cute puffin.

What to Wear in Iceland in April

How you cope with the unpredictable Icelandic weather largely depends on how you dress. As the saying goes, “There’s no bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” While Icelandic weather can be hostile, it’s better to prepare by bringing a good set of clothing.

Layers are essential regardless of what season you visit. Always wear a set of long-sleeved undergarments made of good quality material that dries quickly.

The second layer is your insulation. This should match your body heat to keep you warm. You’ll need a fleece or woolen sweater in summer and an additional down jacket in winter. One layer of trousers should be enough in good weather, but if the weather forecast doesn’t look very promising in the morning for that day, better to have a layer of long underpants.

Finally, the outer layer should protect you from the wind and rain. Your outer shell jacket and trousers must provide good water and wind protection while allowing your skin to breathe. In April, an insulated, waterproof jacket is the best choice. It doesn’t have to be super warm. Still, it’s crucial that it is comfortable and you can wear more layers under it, ensuring good insulation if the weather is terrible and avoiding overheating if the sun shows itself.

For footwear, always wear sturdy and waterproof boots. Leather hiking boots are always a great choice! Avoid wearing sneakers and high heels when you visit the countryside for natural attractions, as the terrain is uneven, muddy, or frozen in April.

Lastly, always pack a hat, gloves, and a scarf or buff, just in case you need them! And don’t forget to pack your swimming gear.

Packing List for Iceland Travel in April

This is what you should pack for your April trip to Iceland:

• Long-sleeved undergarments (preferably merino wool)
• A sweater (wool or fleece)
• A down jacket or a winter parka (waterproof and windproof)
• Waterproof boots
• Insulated, water-repellent pants
• A warm, windproof hat, gloves, and scarf
• Pajamas/nightwear

How to Dress for City Life

Generally, Icelanders are pretty easygoing regarding dressing, and dress codes are not very common. Locals won’t mind tourists wearing outdoor clothing at the bar, but it’s always nice to dress up a bit for a restaurant or an upscale place. Still, it is more like an unwritten rule around major holidays such as Christmas and New Year.

In Iceland, fancy clothing goes perfectly well with a big, warm parka and warm boots, especially in winter. You don’t have to freeze to death just because you’re visiting a restaurant!

It’s good to avoid wearing functional hiking or skiing gear in downtown Reykjavík if you don’t want to stand out as a tourist, but no one will give you any weird looks if you do.

Other Useful Items:

• Reusable pocket warmers
• Hand cream and lip balm
• Reusable water bottle
• Bathing suit and a towel

Events in Iceland in April

Easter is a time for celebration in Iceland, but there aren’t many strange traditions, unlike Christmas.

Families gather for a meal on Easter weekend, and everybody eats way too much chocolate. Then, most Icelanders leave town for a short trip to the countryside. 

Several events dedicated to children and young people happen throughout Reykjavik at the end of April. The Children’s Culture Festival introduces youth to the arts via workshops and various performances. 

The focus is for the child to be an artist, so related activities are offered in schools, museums, libraries, and theaters. In addition, children and young people can join workshops to learn new skills such as rapping, DJing, hula-hooping, and kite-flying. 

Art shows and family-friendly exhibitions are hosted in venues such as the National Museum of Iceland and City Hall. The festival concludes with a giant children’s dance party where local artists produce the best dancing beats.

“I Never Went South,” or “ Aldrei For Eg Sudur ,” is a music festival held in Isafjordur during the Easter weekend. Started by the musician Mugison, this festival quickly became one of Iceland’s most significant musical events.

Everybody will find something they prefer at “I Never Went South.” Participating performers range from brass bands accordion players, heavy metal bands, and rappers. In addition, you’ll hear an eclectic array of local artists performing, backed by some of the biggest names in the Icelandic music industry, such as Paul Oscar, HAM, Retro Stefson, Glowie, Emiliana Torrini, and Solstafir.

The mountain Hlidarfjall, located next to Akureyri in North Iceland, is arguably Iceland’s top ski resort. It hosts several skiing and snowboarding events throughout the year, the biggest of which is the AK Extreme.

This four-day combination of snowboarding and music festival attracts over 7,000 visitors to the northern town each year. Snowboarders worldwide come to the festival to join in friendly competitions. 

One of the most exciting things to do in Reykjavik is the EVE Online Fanfest. EVE Online is a sci-fi, massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) set over 35,000 years in the future. CCP Games, an Icelandic game development, develop it.

Players can explore, trade, and fight throughout the 6,000 strange new worlds in the game. EVE Fanfest sees players and developers together in Reykjavik for a three-day celebration of the game.

Spring in the Northern Hemisphere starts on March 20 and ends on June 21. However, in the old Norse calendar, there were only two seasons, summer and winter. The first day of summer is officially the first Thursday after April 18. The date is preserved in the Viking Sagas and manuscripts.

Traditionally, the day has brought wind, rain, and even snow, but the country still celebrates this day with local fairs and parades led by scouts bearing the Icelandic flag. It is an official bank holiday in Iceland, and people celebrate it by exchanging gifts, usually related to summer activities, like bicycles, balls, and outdoor sports equipment.

As you can see, there are tons to look forwards to if you come to Iceland in April. Since visitor numbers are still relatively low at this time of year, accommodation and car rental prices represent better value than in peak season.

Though some of the more remote parts of the country are best left until late May or June, the Ring Road is open. So, what’s stopping you from taking that vacation you have promised yourself?

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Iceland in April – Weather, Things to Do, & What to Expect

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Learn what to expect when traveling to Iceland in April. That includes road conditions, what to wear/pack, what makes it worth it to visit during this month, some tips on driving during this time, top activities, and events that happen annually during this month.

Weather in Iceland in April

April marks the transition from winter to spring in Iceland. The weather can be unpredictable, with varying temperatures and frequent changes. The average high temperature is 44 F (6.8 C), and the low temperature is 39 F (3 C).

I always recommend that you pack layers and be prepared for sudden weather shifts, including rain, snow, wind, and occasional sunshine.

Daylight Hours

One of the major advantages of visiting Iceland in April is the lengthening of daylight hours. During the early part of the month, you can enjoy approximately:

April 1 st – 13 hours and 31 minutes

On April 15th there are 15 hours and 03 minutes

April 30th – 16 hours and 43 minutes

Road Conditions & Driving in Iceland

Because April is a transitional month road conditions can vary. While main roads are generally accessible, some secondary roads in remote areas may still be closed or have limited access due to lingering snow and ice.

It’s crucial to stay updated on road conditions and weather forecasts by checking reliable sources like the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration’s website. If you plan on driving, renting a 4×4 vehicle with studded winter tires is recommended for added safety.

It's a Great Time to Explore in a Car or Campervan

Go Car Rental Iceland is a local Icelandic car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars and very competitive prices. Use my code Iceland10 to save 10% off the entire cost of your rental car.

I personally use them for when I go on adventures, and I’m so glad to hear that many of my listeners and subscribers are also having a great experience with them. I mentioned in a previous episode that one of my listeners switched to Go Car Rental Iceland from one of the internationally known rental car companies here and she saved $400! That was for a rental during the summer when prices can sometimes double due to demand.

If you plan to use a campervan, use my code Iceland7 to save 7% and get two free duvets with your GO Campers van rental. Also, I have a great episode coming up soon about how to choose the right camper van for your travels in Iceland, so keep an eye out for that.

What to Wear in Iceland in April

To stay comfortable during your visit in April, it’s essential to dress in layers. Start with a base layer of thermal clothing, followed by a sweater or fleece, and top it off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Don’t forget to bring a hat, gloves, and a sturdy pair of waterproof boots for outdoor activities. It’s also wise to have a waterproof backpack to protect your belongings from unexpected showers.

If you want more specific help with what to pack, grab my FREE ultimate packing checklist for Iceland.

Why You Should Visit Iceland in April

April offers a unique blend of winter and spring experiences. Here are a few reasons why it’s an excellent time to visit Iceland:

• Fewer tourists compared to the peak summer season, allowing for a more intimate experience.
• Witness the transition of landscapes from snow-covered winter wonderlands to budding greenery.
• Increased chances of viewing the Northern Lights due to extended darkness during the evenings.
• Opportunity to enjoy activities like glacier hiking, ice caving, and snowmobiling before they become inaccessible during the warmer months.
• Often slightly warmer

Iceland Events in April

• Aldrei Fór Ég Suður – this is a music festival in the Westfjords that takes place over the long Easter weekend.
• Children’s Culture Festival – A lovely festival that’s fun for the whole family.

Top Activities to Do in April

• Glacier Tours – hiking & climbing
• Snowmobile Tours
• Fun Road Trips around the country
• Bathing in Geothermal Pools
• Ice Cave Tours
• Northern Lights
• Explore Reykjavík
• Whale Watching

Learn About the Other Months in Iceland

• Iceland in January
• Iceland in February
• Iceland in March

Random Fact of the Episode

The first day of summer in Iceland is in April! Yes, you read that right. I explain in the podcast episode why that is the case.

Icelandic Word of the Episode

Apríl – April in English

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Wonderful Aurora Hunting Tour Experience! Although the aurora was not very visible, it still made for a fantastic memory. The tour was initially set for three hours, but due to poor visibility that evening, the team didn't give up. They continued to search for the northern lights and managed to capture some faint camera lights after 2 AM. Despite running overtime and it being very late, they provided ample opportunity for those still energized to get off the bus and try their luck at spotting and photographing the lights. It was the last day of the aurora season, and on the way back, the guide explained that this time didn’t count as a successful sighting and offered a chance to join another tour within the next two years. I’m truly grateful for the team's dedication and effort. Thank you for making it a memorable experience!

Pyeseghl Aurelio

Great Golden Circle tour with a knowledgeable tour guide. The Northern Lights tour guide was very enthusiastic about the phenomenon and you could tell from the way he talked about it. Unfortunately, we only saw a small trail during our time there, which lasted roughly 4 hours. The lead guide was trying to see if we could chase another sighting on the way back to Reykjavik but we ended up heading straight back. The effort that the guides took into to ensure possible sightings was admirable and definitely a stark change from another tour that we went on the previous night. Whilst the offer of rebooking the tour was there, unfortunately we were leaving the next day so were unable to try again during the trip. However, the enthusiasm the guides experienced and the fact that they did try to go to another site to ensure a sighting is why next time I shall book with the same company (Grey Line Iceland) .

Phoebe Cheuk

The guide Romeo was friendly. He prepared hot chocolate and fire in cold weather. The places he chosen for seeing the northern lights are perfect. It is important to wear warm clothes and gloves because your feet and hands will be freezing outdoors at cold night !

Morgan W Hizer

Where to begin! This was absolutely the best trip of my life. I’ve been planning this trip since September of 2023. Guide to Iceland had so much helpful information about the country that assisted in knowing what to expect. If I had any questions they were quick in responding. I did encounter a couple hiccups which I feel was partially out of their control, however they were quick in fixing the situation. I unfortunately didn’t get to see the Northern Lights, nor was I able to do one thing on my journey the way they planned it and it being closed on the day they planned it on the itinerary. Just gives me a reason to come back, so I made peace with it. I’d recommend this and using them to assist in making your dream a reality.

What are the Northern Lights?

The northern lights, otherwise known as the Aurora Borealis, are phenomena that occur at high latitudes when solar particles ionise as they enter the earth's atmosphere, appearing in the night sky in the form of waving ribbons of colour. These ‘ribbons’ have captivated their viewers for centuries, bringing about defying awe and unspeakable mystery.

The northern lights are, in fact, occurring throughout the year, yet it is only during the dark winter nights that they become visible to the human eye. This is, naturally, what makes northern light hunting one of the most popular winter activities in Iceland. You can partake in numerous tours that take you to the best northern lights spotting locations, such as an affordable Northern Lights Bus Tour that takes you far away from the city's light-pollution, or a Northern Lights Boat Cruise that allows you to witness the auroras out on the open sea. Outside of Scandinavia, it is only possible to go northern light hunting in such places as Alaska, northern Canada and Siberia. 

Modern scientific understanding of the northern lights did not mature until the 1880's when researchers discovered their connection to solar activity. Further study, seventy years later, would deepen this revelation, with new breakthroughs made in the knowledge that electrons and protons travel to earth on a ‘solar wind’. Today, research is ongoing into the northern lights as we further our understanding of deep space and our connection to it.

The northern lights have long been known to the Scandinavian people, inspiring some of the greatest and longstanding tales to have ever come out of Norse Mythology.

One of the most prominent of these relates to Ragnarök, a great future battle that, as foretold, will see the world submerged in water, and a significant number of the Gods dead, including the likes of Odin, Thor and Loki. After the events of Ragnarök, it is said that the world will be born anew, strengthening the ancient themes of birth, death and rebirth.

To prepare for this battle, Odin, the Chieftain of Asgard, would summon his most prized warriors, the Valkyries, female battle-maidens who rode on horseback carrying spears and shields. Ancient stories would surmise that the northern lights were a reflection of this Valkyrian armour.

Another widely spoken about interpretation is that the aurora was the ‘Bifrost Bridge’, a rainbow walkway that led deceased warriors into the glorious, glowing halls of Valhalla.

To the Icelandic Vikings, the aurora was a phenomenon to be celebrated, a popular trend that has continued to this day with countless Northern Lights tours taking place across the land of Ice and Fire. Neighbouring Scandinavians, however, were less than trustful.

Many Norse people, such as the indigenous Finno-Ugric people, the Sámi, felt that the lights were to be feared. Believing these dancing green, red and yellow light waves to be the souls of the dead, the Sámi were careful to never show any sign of disrespect towards the lights, be that whistling beneath them, singing, talking or even waving them to them.

It is said, that those who fail to heed these warnings will be pulled up into the sky, forever trapped among these nocturnal spirits. Due to this slumbering myth, it is thought that some Sámi people, even today, will not go outside when the northern lights dance above.

It is perhaps the Finnish who have the most beautiful allegory for the auroras, believing them to be created by the arctic fox, an animal that just so happens to be Iceland’s only native mammal. The Finnish name for the aurora translates to “Fire Fox”, a direct reference to the ethereal fox that would dash so quickly across the night sky that his tail would brush against the mountains, thus causing a vast and colourful outburst of sparks.

Still, another interpretation of the Arctic fox story differs somewhat, and provides some justification on the part of an ancient people as to why the lights only appeared in winter; instead of sparks, the fox’ tail was thought to have kicked up snowflakes into the air which then caught the light of the moon.

When it comes down to the folklore of Iceland particularly, it was believed that the northern lights helped to soothe the pain of childbirth, though women who had yet to give birth were warned not to look at them directly, in fear that the child would be born cross-eyed.

During your visit in Iceland, you have the option of seeing the northern lights on your own. But should you want to view them from the best spots, far away from the light-pollution of human settlements, you would be well advised to take a northern lights tour, in which a knowledgeable guide tells you all there is to know about this fantastic phenomenon.

Frequently asked questions

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Visiting Iceland in April: Pros, Cons, and Tips for 2023

April is a transitional month in Iceland, as the winter snows are melting and the landscape is beginning to come alive with springtime colors. Iceland in April is a great time to visit if you’re looking to experience Iceland’s natural beauty without the crowds of the peak summer season.

However, there are also some challenges to traveling to Iceland during this month. In this guide, we’ll explore the pros and cons of visiting Iceland in April and provide you with some helpful tips to plan your trip.

About Iceland in the Spring

Iceland in april: pros, iceland in april: cons, events in iceland in april, visiting in march instead, visiting in may instead, our final thoughts.

As winter transitions into spring, Iceland begins to come back to life after a long, dark season. In March, the days begin to get longer and temperatures start to rise, although snow and ice can still be found in many parts of the country.

By April, Iceland is in full bloom with wildflowers and greenery blanketing the landscape. May is when the weather truly starts to warm up, with average temperatures ranging from 5-12°C (41-54°F), making it a great time to explore the country’s outdoor attractions.

Spring is an excellent time to visit Iceland for those who want to avoid the crowds of the peak summer season. It’s also a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and soaking in hot springs. The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to come prepared with layers and waterproof gear.

Keep in mind that some roads and hiking trails may still be closed due to snow or icy conditions, especially earlier in the season, so it’s a good idea to check ahead before planning your itinerary.

For a deeper dive into the best time to visit Iceland, please see our comprehensive guide to the best time to visit Iceland .

Pros and Cons of Iceland in April

As with any month of the year, there are going to be advantages and potential disadvantages to exploring Iceland in April. Keep in mind, every month is wildly different for Icelandic adventures. April is no exception. Below are some of the pros and potential cons of Iceland in April.

April is a great time to visit Iceland as the country is slowly coming out of winter and the weather is starting to warm up. The days are also getting longer, providing more opportunities to explore. One of the biggest draws of visiting Iceland in April is the chance to see the Northern Lights before they disappear for the summer.

The winter snow also begins to melt in April, revealing stunning landscapes and waterfalls that were previously hidden. Additionally, April marks the start of Iceland’s puffin season, when the adorable birds return to the country’s coastal cliffs to breed. It’s also a great time to visit the Westfjords, as the roads and hiking trails begin to open up after the winter closures.

Overall, April is a great time to visit Iceland if you want to experience the country before the summer crowds arrive. The weather can still be unpredictable and there may be some residual winter weather, but the benefits of seeing the Northern Lights, puffins, and springtime landscapes more than make up for it. Just be sure to pack warm layers and waterproof gear to be prepared for any weather.

While visiting Iceland in April can be a great experience in many ways, there are a few downsides to keep in mind. One of the biggest cons is that April can still be quite cold, with temperatures often hovering around freezing or just above. This means you’ll need to pack warm clothing and be prepared for chilly weather, even if you’re planning to do activities like hiking or sightseeing.

Another potential downside of visiting Iceland in April is that some of the country’s top attractions, like the Highlands and certain hiking trails, may still be inaccessible due to snow and ice.

Additionally, while the days are getting longer in April, it’s still not quite light for 24 hours like it is during the summer months, which means you’ll have less daylight to work with if you’re hoping to pack a lot of activities into your trip.

Finally, it’s worth noting that April is considered part of Iceland’s shoulder season, which means that prices may still be relatively high compared to other destinations.

There are plenty of events taking place throughout Iceland in the month of April. Here are just a few of the events in Iceland in April:

• Reykjavik Folk Festival – This three-day festival features traditional folk music from Iceland and other Nordic countries.
• Food and Fun Festival – This popular food festival showcases the best of Icelandic cuisine, with top chefs from around the world coming to Reykjavik to prepare special dishes using local ingredients.
• Easter – Icelanders celebrate Easter in a big way, with lots of traditional foods, including smoked lamb, chocolate eggs, and special bread.
• DesignMarch – This festival showcases the best of Icelandic design, with exhibitions and events taking place across Reykjavik.
• Reykjavik Blues Festival – Fans of blues music won’t want to miss this festival, which brings together top musicians from Iceland and around the world for several days of concerts and events.
• The First Day of Summer – This national holiday marks the beginning of the summer season in Iceland and is celebrated with parades, concerts, and other outdoor events.
• International Viking Festival – Held in Hafnarfjordur, this festival celebrates Viking history and culture with a variety of events and activities.

Tips for Visiting Iceland in April

Visiting Iceland in May can be a great choice for those who want to experience the country’s beauty in full bloom. One of the main advantages of visiting in May is the weather. With temperatures ranging from 5-13°C (41-55°F), it is a comfortable time to explore Iceland’s landscapes. The days are also longer, with up to 21 hours of daylight, giving visitors ample time to explore the natural wonders of Iceland.

May is also a great time for wildlife watching. Many birds return to Iceland in May to breed, including puffins, Arctic terns, and guillemots. In addition, it is common to spot seals and whales along the coastlines. May is also a great time to visit the Westfjords region, as many of the roads are only open during the summer months.

However, it is important to note that May can still have its share of rainy and windy days. It is always important to check the weather forecast and road conditions before setting out on any adventures in Iceland. Additionally, May is a popular time for tourism, so it is recommended to book accommodations and activities well in advance to avoid disappointment.

As always, if you’re looking to get up-to-date information on the unpredictable weather in Iceland, there is one primary source. That source is Vedur.is .

If you’re considering a trip to Iceland in April, you may want to consider visiting in March instead. Although the weather can still be cold and unpredictable in March, the days are longer, with up to 13 hours of daylight towards the end of the month.

This means more time to explore Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders. Additionally, visiting in March may be less crowded than in April since it is still considered the shoulder season.

For a deeper dive, please see our full article on Iceland in March .

While April can be a great time to visit Iceland, it’s worth considering a trip in May instead. The weather is generally milder, with longer days and less chance of snowstorms, making it easier to travel and explore.

May is also a great time to see Iceland’s wildlife, with puffins returning to the shores and whales migrating closer to the coast. Plus, the Icelandic music scene comes alive in May with the annual Reykjavik Folk Festival.

For a deeper dive, please see our full article on Iceland in May .

Overall, visiting Iceland in April can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to be prepared for the weather and the crowds. If you’re looking for a quieter and potentially more affordable trip, consider visiting in March instead.

Alternatively, May offers milder weather, longer days, and more opportunities for wildlife viewing and cultural events. Whatever month you choose, make sure to pack appropriately, plan your itinerary in advance, and don’t forget to experience Iceland’s unique culture and hospitality.

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Visit Iceland in April

April is one of the least busy months in Iceland. The winter season is mostly over, and the summer season hasn’t started. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t anything to do in April. In many ways, it is best to visit Iceland in April. And we will tell you why!

According to the old Icelandic calendar, einmánuður , the last winter month starts at the end of March and ends on the last Wednesday of April. That means that the last Thursday of April is the First Day of Summer (and the first day of harpa )!

April is also an Easter month (along with March); the days are getting longer, but it can still snow, and you can still see the Northern Lights!

Festivals in Iceland in April

Easter in iceland.

Icelanders aren’t a very religious nation, despite having a state church. Those who believe in God say it is more like an innocent child-like faith rather than an actual belief.

Most Icelanders are confirmed into the state church (or any other church in Iceland or with Siðmennt – Humanists Iceland). Most teenagers do it because everyone else does it, and they get gifts. Why are we talking about confirmations? Well, they usually happen around the Easter holiday.

Icelanders also love their holidays, even if they are primarily old religious relics. We wouldn’t trade them for anything. When you visit Iceland in April, it is good to know which days are holidays and which aren’t.

The best thing about Easter in Iceland is the Easter Eggs for many. Heavenly chocolate eggs filled with candy! And, of course, the first thing Icelanders look for is the small paper with a proverb or saying.

Holy Thursday in Iceland

Unlike many other countries, Holy Thursday is a holiday in Iceland. But not to fret; it is akin to a regular Sunday. The liquor store will be closed, and other stores and places are generally closed on Sundays. Other places will most likely be open.

Good Friday and Easter Sunday in Iceland

Until 2019, it was forbidden by law to have a public celebration of any kind on Good Friday and Easter Sunday (and Christmas Day). But in June of that year, it was abolished. That doesn’t mean that everything will be open. Most stores will be closed, as well as many restaurants. Bars will not open until late in the evening in most cases.

Some museums will be open, like the National Museum of Iceland and the National Gallery of Iceland. Not all supermarkets will be open on Good Friday, and most will be closed on Easter Sunday.

Easter Monday in Iceland

You will find more stores closed on Easter Monday than on Holy Thursday. However, restaurants are generally open, and supermarkets will have a typical Sunday opening. Museums are generally closed on Mondays during the winter months.

First day of summer

The First Day of Summer is always on a Thursday between 19 and 25 April. What makes it unique is that it is a legal holiday in Iceland.

There are usually separate celebrations between neighbourhoods, so you will unlikely miss the festivities. There are parades led by brass bands, which start at 13:00. The celebrations are made for families and especially children. Face painting, bouncy castles, grilled hot dogs and the like are offered.

Northern Lights in April

Although the days have become longer, it is still possible to see the Northern Lights when you visit Iceland in April. Organised Northern Lights tours generally end in the middle of the month, but if you’re willing to do it on your own, it is possible to see the lights as long as the skies are clear and dark.

By the middle of the month, the sun sets at 9 in the evening with complete darkness an hour later. By the end of the month, the sun sets at 10 in the evening and darkness sets in an hour later.

Best Things to do in Iceland in April

As it is still wintery in Iceland in April, you can do many of the traditional winter excursions. If you do a Golden Circle tour, you will still see Þingvellir National Park in its winter coat. With the longer days, you will be able to enjoy it for longer.

We recommend trying to catch the First Day of Summer celebrations in the city if you can. It is traditional for parents to give their children a summer gift on the day, usually some sort of summer toy (ball, skipping rope, chalk, and that sort of thing). However, it is not uncommon for others to give presents as well.

Weather in Iceland in April

Icelanders sometimes joke about the spring weather. It sometimes seems to revert to winter a few times. The temperatures are rising, though, and the days are getting longer. The average temperatures in Reykjavik in April are 34.2°F (1.2°C) to 44.2°F (6.8°C), with 164 mean monthly sunshine hours. However, there is about 4.8” (12.2cm) of snowfall this month on average.

The dreaded Easter Cold Spell could happen in April , which means cold weather with snow and wind. However, it is a bit of a loose concept and doesn’t necessarily have to occur during Easter. Meteorologist Trausti Jónsson said: “The weather in Iceland is usually somewhat unstable; it alternates between northern winds with cold and southern winds with warm weather. Sharp windy weather from the north typically happens during the two weeks in and around Easter. But it can also occur every other two-week period during spring.”

What to Pack to Visit Iceland in April

It is best to pack warm clothes when travelling to Iceland. We can still get cold weather despite the average temperature keeping above freezing.

Layering is the best choice of action when dressing in Iceland. If you are spending a lot of time outside, we recommend woollen underwear. Hat, scarf, gloves, winter coat, warm socks and sturdy boots are also recommended.

However, there is no need to dress like you’re going hiking if you spend your time in the city. Icelanders wear winter coats, hats, scarves, and mittens. But many have banished the woollen socks and winter boots to the back of the closet when it comes to April.

Your Friend in Reykjavik Tours in April

As April brings warmer weather than the months before, it is perfect for walking tours. With holidays like the First Day of Summer and Easter, the Reykjavik Folklore Tour would be an ideal addition. You will learn everything about the elves, trolls, ghosts and magic of Iceland. The Reykjavik CatWalk , with a stop at the one and only Cat Café, is also a fun tour. We recommend the Reykjavik Food Lovers Tour if you want to be more traditional. Get a taste of Icelandic food and culture.

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Discover Iceland

• Explore Reykjavik
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Best of Iceland

• Drive the Ring Road
• Enjoy Whale Watching Tour
• Visit National Parks
• Wander Snæfellsnes Peninsula
• Tour the Golden Circle

Iceland Circumnavigation

• Explore Látrabjarg bird cliffs
• Explore glaciers, lakes, & beaches
• Enjoy whale-watching in Húsavik
• Tour Hornstrandir peninsula

Iceland in Depth

• Discover Dynjandi Waterfall
• Experience Isafjordur
• Visit Vigur Island

Katla Ice Cave Under the Volcano

• View Over Myrdalsjokull
• Visiting a Natural Glacial Ice Cave
• Scenic Super Jeep Ride

Ice Climbing & Glacier Walking Adventure

• Explore Solheimajokull Glacier
• Enjoy glacier hiking

South Shore Adventure

• Sólheimajökull Glacier
• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
• Reynisdrangar Basalt Sea Stacks
• Skógafoss Waterfall
• Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
• Vík in Mýrdalur

Circumnavigating Iceland

• Visit Snæfellsnes National Park
• See fascinating landscapes
• Experience bird and whale paradise
• Step across the Arctic Circle
• Take in the beauty of Bakkagerdi

Golden Circle Afternoon

• Þingvellir National Park
• Gullfoss Waterfall
• Geysir Hot Spring Area

South Iceland Encounter

• Experience South Iceland
• Explore Vatnajökull ice cave
• Search for the Northern Lights

South Coast, Waterfalls & Glacier Hike

• Solheimajokull Glacier

Best of Iceland - Private Tour

Circumnavigating iceland: the land of elves, sagas, and volcanoes.

• See Snæfellsnes National Park
• Enjoy hikes to waterfalls
• Go whale-watching near Husavik

Iceland, Jan Mayen, Svalbard

• Explore Jan Mayen
• Discover Svalbard
• Experience zodiac excursions
• Hikes across the Arctic tundra

Through the North Atlantic

• Explore the historic Orkney Island
• Visit Tórshavn in Faroes islands
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• Experience harbour village of Gjogv

Northeast Greenland's Unexplored Sea Ice

• Discover Blosseville
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• Watch the arctic wildlife

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• Explore Halifax
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• Explore Qaqortoq

Reykjavik to Tromso

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Book These 10 Best Iceland Tours To Uncover The Wonders Of The Land Of Fire And Ice

I celand is a magical destination that can be life-changing. From the incredible colors of the Northern Lights illuminating the night sky milky blue waters of the Blue Lagoon, there is no shortage of memorable experiences to enjoy here. The Land of Fire and Ice is full of natural wonders that can be discovered as part of a guided tour. Whether travelers are driving the Icelandic Ring Road or basing themselves in cozy hostels in Reykjavík for day trips, these are some of the top sights and tours to experience.

South Coast Full Day Tour

Go beyond the capital city of Iceland with this full-day tour of Iceland’s south coast from the capital, Reykjavík . Top attractions that the tour visits include the famous waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and Sólheimajökull glacier. Travelers can also spot puffins and glimpse Eyjafjallajökull Volcano during the excursion. Transportation is included, but travelers should bring cash for buying lunch and snacks throughout the day since meals are not part of the ticket price for this tour.

• Tour: South Coast Full Day Tour by Minibus from Reykjavik
• Cost: From $112.00
• Duration: 10 hours
• What’s Included: Wi-Fi on the bus, hotel pick up and drop off, and an Icelandic treat.

Book this tour

Golden Circle Day Trip From Reykjavík

The Golden Circle is a must-do day trip from Reykjavík when visiting Iceland. The tour encompasses three natural wonders of Iceland which are the Gullfoss Waterfall, Strokkur at Geysir, and Thingvellir National Park. The full-day tour includes bus transportation from a hotel in Reykjavík and allows travelers time at each stop to appreciate the incredible scenery, take photos, and ask the tour guide questions. Meals are not included in this full-day tour, so budget cash accordingly for lunch and snacks at stops along the way.

• Tour: Golden Circle Classic Day Trip from Reykjavik
• Cost: From $79.30
• Duration: 7 hours
• What’s Included: Professional tour guide, bus transfer, Wi-Fi on board

Related: Midnight Sun And Hot Springs: 10 Best Places To Relax In Iceland

Snorkeling Between Continents

Iceland offers the unique opportunity to swim between two continents at the Silfra Fissure. This waterway occurs where the North American and European tectonic plates meet and is located inside beautiful Thingvellir National Park. Travelers can show up ready for an adventure with no prep work on their part. All necessary gear is provided to stay warm and dry while swimming and snorkeling in this cold waterway. The views of the clear blue water from below are exceptional and are captured through GoPro photos during the tour. There is no additional fee to receive these photos.

• Tour: Snorkeling Between Continents in Silfra with Photos Included
• Cost: From $168.79
• Duration: 3 hours
• What’s Included: Professional English-speaking Guide, snorkeling tour in Silfra Fissure, GoPro photos from the tour, help from a Certified PADI dive / Dive-master, drysuit, snorkeling equipment, hot drinks, and cookies

Local Foodie Adventure

Enjoying the local cuisine is one of the best ways to learn about a destination, so why not take a food tour while in Reykjavík? This tour allows travelers to sample food from a variety of eateries and food trucks in the city, tasting an array of traditional Icelandic foods. Guests will try Icelandic street food, homemade ice cream, and the famous Icelandic hot dogs. The small group tour is limited to 12 people to ensure a personalized experience that allows travelers to ask questions.

• Tour: Reykjavik Food Walk - Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland
• Cost: $119.00
• What’s Included: Tour guide, 4–5 stops, 8+ dishes to try

Related: Discovering The Unusual: Top 10 Weird Foods To Eat In Iceland

Blue Lagoon Ticket And Transport

The Blue Lagoon is a staple for travelers visiting Iceland. The hot, inviting mineral water is an otherworldly shade of blue, and the in-water bar is a fun feature of the experience. Relaxing here for a full day is worthwhile, especially for the tour price. Book in advance to avoid disappointment since this attraction is so popular among tourists. The package allows travelers to book the Comfort or Premium ticket for the Blue Lagoon and add a bus transfer if necessary. The Comfort ticket includes a towel, one beverage, and a silica face mask, while the Premium ticket also includes a bathrobe and algae face mask.

• Tour: Blue Lagoon Ticket with Optional Transportation
• Cost: From $169.43
• What’s Included: Bus transfer, Premium or Comfort Entrance Ticket

Lake Myvatn, Hot-Springs & Godafoss Waterfall Tour

Travelers who find themselves in northern Iceland in Akureyri have a whole new set of attractions to explore in this part of the country. The half-day tour includes a chance to soak in the Myvatn hot springs and view the incredible cascades of Godafoss waterfall. The tour also stops at the craters of Skútustaðir and the lave fields of Dimmuborgir. The tour ticket price also includes a packed lunch. This is a great opportunity to explore the northern highlights of Iceland in a single day.

• Tour: Lake Myvatn, Hot-Springs & Godafoss Waterfall Tour from Akureyri
• Cost: From $154.00
• Duration: 6 hours
• What’s Included: Transportation and Wi-Fi on the bus

Whale Watching Tour From Reykjavík

Whale watching is a top thing to do in Iceland, so travelers can embark on this exciting adventure to look for majestic creatures off the coast of Reykjavík. The peak season for whale watching is from June to August. While companies can never guarantee that travelers will spot whales while on the tour, the success rates for this tour is extremely high, with 95% success during the summer months and 80% success in the winter. Guests are provided with the necessary gear to remain warm and comfortable on board the ship in every season.

• Tour: The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik
• Cost: From $87.00
• What’s Included: Live guide, overalls, raincoats, blankets, admission to Wildlife Exhibition, free Wi-Fi on board

Related: 10 Best Iceland Hotels That Showcase The Charms Of The Land Of Fire And Ice

Icelandic Horse Back Riding Tour

The Icelandic Horse is a unique creature that is the only horse breed in Iceland. Among their many interesting and unique traits is the ability to perform one or two additional gaits: Tolt and, sometimes, pace. Riding through the Icelandic countryside on horseback is a magical experience that will stay with travelers for a lifetime. Before getting on the horse, guests of the tour are fitted with helmets for safety and briefed on how to ride. The tour is suitable for all levels of experience.

• Tour : Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik
• Cost: From $118.94
• Duration: 2 hours
• What’s Included: Helmet, boots, rain gear, tea or coffee

Hike Inside A Volcano

See the inside of Iceland’s dormant Thrihnukagigur volcano on this small group tour that is limited to a maximum of 18 guests. The tour is led by an expert travel guide and takes guests to the Blue Mountains of Iceland where they will journey inside the volcano to see the geological remnants of an eruption that took place 4,000 years ago. Hotel pick-up and drop-off is included as part of the package price.

• Tour: Inside the Volcano: Small Group Thrihnukagigur Hike and Tour from Reykjavik
• Cost: From $367.02
• Duration: 5 to 6 hours
• What’s Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, helmet, harness, and safety equipment, light refreshments

Northern Lights Sightseeing Tour

Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland is a bucket-list activity and travelers can do their best to have this experience by booking a guided tour. There is never a guarantee of seeing the lights, but they are best seen from November to March when skies are dark and days are short. The tour takes travelers outside the city, away from light pollution, to improve the chances of spotting the phenomena. Guests also enjoy delicious homemade hot chocolate made from real Icelandic chocolate to help keep warm.

• Tour: #1 Northern Lights tour in Iceland from Reykjavik with PRO photos
• Cost: From $141.60
• Duration: 4 hours
• What’s Included: Professional local driver and guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, Wi-Fi on board, cinnamon buns, wool blanket, professional photos

Money blog: 'Loud budgeting' - The money-saving trend that has nothing to do with giving up your daily coffee

Created accidentally by a comedian, "loud budgeting" is breaking down the taboo of speaking about money. Read this and the rest of our Weekend Money features, and leave a comment, and we'll be back with rolling personal finance and consumer news on Monday.

Saturday 11 May 2024 09:05, UK

Weekend Money

• 'Loud budgeting': The money-saving trend that has nothing to do with giving up your daily coffee
• What is most in-demand period property?
• £12m tea advert, downsizing, £320 tasting menus and job interview mistakes: What readers have said this week
• Free childcare applications about to open for new age band
• Where has huge week for UK economy left us?

Best of the week

• How to avoid a holiday data roaming charge (while still using the internet)
• Mortgage rates up again this week - here are the best deals on the market
• My daughter discovered undeclared £600 management fee after buying her flat - can we complain?
• Best of the Money blog - an archive

Ask a question or make a comment

By Jess Sharp , Money team 

Money saving trends are constantly popping up on social media - but one in particular has been gaining huge amounts of attention.

Created accidentally by a comedian, loud budgeting is breaking down the taboo of speaking about money.

The idea is based on being firmer/more vocal about your financial boundaries in social situations and setting out what you are happy to spend your money on, instead of "Keeping up with the Joneses". 

On TikTok alone, videos published under the hashtag #loudbudgeting have garnered more than 30 million views - and that figure is continuing to climb. 

We spoke to Lukas Battle - the 26-year-old who unintentionally created the trend as part of a comedy sketch. 

Based in New York, he came up with the term in a skit about the "quiet luxury" hype, which had spread online in 2023 inspired by shows like Succession. 

The term was used for humble bragging about your wealth with expensive items that were subtle in their design - for example, Gwyneth Paltrow's  £3,900 moss green wool coat from The Row, which she wore during her ski resort trial...

"I was never a big fan of the quiet luxury trend, so I just kind of switched the words and wrote 'loud budgeting is in'. I'm tired of spending money and I don't want to pretend to be rich," Lukas said. 

"That's how it started and then the TikTok comments were just obsessed with that original idea." 

This was the first time he mentioned it...

Lukas explained that it wasn't about "being poor" but about not being afraid of sharing your financial limits and "what's profitable for you personally". 

"It's not 'skip a coffee a day and you'll become a millionaire'."

While talking money has been seen as rude or taboo, he said it's something his generation is more comfortable doing. 

"I've seen more debate around the topic and I think people are really intrigued and attracted by the idea," he said. 

"It's just focusing your spending and time on things you enjoy and cutting out the things you might feel pressured to spend your money on."  

He has incorporated loud budgeting into his own life, telling his friends "it's free to go outside" and opting for cheaper dinner alternatives.

"Having the terminology and knowing it's a trend helps people understand it and there's no awkward conversation around it," he said. 

The trend has been a big hit with so-called American "finfluencers", or "financial influencers", but people in the UK have started practising it as well. 

Mia Westrap has taken up loud budgeting by embarking on a no-buy year and sharing her finances with her 11.3k TikTok followers. 

Earning roughly £2,100 a month, she spends around £1,200 on essentials, like rent, petrol and car insurance, but limits what else she can purchase. 

Clothes, fizzy drinks, beauty treatments, makeup, dinners out and train tickets are just some things on her "red list". 

The 26-year-old PHD student first came across the idea back in 2017, but decided to take up the challenge this year after realising she was living "pay check to pay check". 

She said her "biggest fear" in the beginning was that her friends wouldn't understand what she was doing, but she found loud budgeting helped. 

"I'm still trying my best to just go along with what everyone wants to do but I just won't spend money while we do it and my friends don't mind that, we don't make a big deal out of it," she said. 

So far, she has been able to save £1,700, and she said talking openly about her money has been "really helpful". 

"There's no way I could have got this far if I wasn't baring my soul to the internet about the money I have spent. It has been a really motivating factor."

Financial expert John Webb said loud budgeting has the ability to help many "feel empowered" and create a "more realistic" relationship with money.

"This is helping to normalise having open and honest conversations about finances," the consumer affair manager at Experien said. 

"It can also reduce the anxiety some might have by keeping their financial worries to themselves." 

However, he warned it's important to be cautious and to take the reality of life into consideration. 

"It could cause troubles within friendship groups if they're not on the same page as you or have different financial goals," he said.

"This challenge isn't meant to stop you from having fun, but it is designed to help people become more conscious and intentional when it comes to money, and reduce the stigma around talking about it." 

Rightmove's keyword tool shows Victorian-era houses are the most commonly searched period properties, with people drawn to their ornate designs and features.

Georgian and Edwardian-style are second and third respectively, followed by Tudor properties. Regency ranked in fifth place.

Rightmove property expert Tim Bannister said: "Home hunters continue to be captivated by the character and charm of properties that we see in period dramas.

"Victorian homes remain particularly popular, characterised by their historic charm, solid construction, and spacious interiors. You'll often find Victorian houses in some of the most desirable locations which include convenient access to schools and transport links."

Throughout the week Money blog readers have shared their thoughts on the stories we've been covering, with the most correspondence coming in on...

• A hotly contested debate on the best brand of tea
• Downsizing homes
• The cost of Michelin-starred food

Job interview mistakes

On Wednesday we reported on a new £12m ad from PG Tips in response to it falling behind rivals such as Twinings, Yorkshire Tea and Tetley....

We had lots of comments like this...

How on earth was the PG Tips advert so expensive? I prefer Tetley tea, PG Tips is never strong enough flavour for me. Shellyleppard

The reason for the sales drop with PG Tips could be because they increased the price and reduced the quantity of bags from 240 to 180 - it's obvious. Royston

And then this question which we've tried to answer below...

Why have PG Tips changed from Pyramid shape tea bags, to a square? Sam

Last year PG Tips said it was changing to a square bag that left more room for leaves to infuse, as the bags wouldn't fold over themselves.

We reported on data showing how downsizing could save you money for retirement - more than £400,000, in some regions, by swapping four beds for two.

Some of our readers shared their experiences...

We are downsizing and moving South so it's costing us £100k extra for a smaller place, all money from retirement fund. AlanNorth

Interesting read about downsizing for retirement. We recently did this to have the means to retire early at 52. However, we bought a house in the south of France for the price of a flat in our town in West Sussex. Now living the dream! OliSarah

How much should we pay for food?

Executive chef at London's two-Michelin-starred Ikoyi, Jeremy Chan, raised eyebrows when he suggested to the Money blog that Britons don't pay enough for restaurant food.

Ikoyi, the 35th best restaurant in the world, charges £320 for its tasting menu. 

"I don't think people pay enough money for food, I think we charge too little, [but] we want to always be accessible to as many people as possible, we're always trying our best to do that," he said, in a piece about his restaurant's tie up with Uber Eats... 

We had this in... 

Are they serious? That is two weeks' worth of food shopping for me, if the rich can afford this "tasting menu" then they need to be taxed even more by the government, it's just crazy! Steve T

If the rate of pay is proportionate to the vastly overpriced costs of the double Michelin star menu, I would gladly peel quail eggs for four-hour stints over continuing to be abused as a UK supply teacher. AndrewWard

Does this two-star Michelin star chef live in the real world? Who gives a toss if he stands and peels his quails eggs for four hours, and he can get the best turbot from the fishmonger fresh on a daily basis? It doesn't justify the outrageous price he is charging for his tasting menu. Topaztraveller

Chefs do make me laugh, a steak is just a steak, they don't make the meat! They just cook it like the rest of us, but we eat out because we can't be bothered cooking! StevieGrah

Finally, many of you reacted to this feature on common mistakes in job interviews...

Those 10 biggest mistakes people make in interviews is the dumbest thing I've ever read. They expect all that and they'll be offering a £25k a year job. Why wouldn't I want to know about benefits and basic sick pay? And also a limp handshake? How's that relevant to how you work? Jre90

Others brought their own tips...

Whenever I go for an interview I stick to three points: 1. Be yourself 2. Own the interview 3. Wear the clothes that match the job you are applying Kevin James Blakey

From Sunday, eligible working parents of children from nine-months-old in England will be able to register for access to up to 15 free hours of government-funded childcare per week.

This will then be granted from September. 

Check if you're eligible  here  - or read on for our explainer on free childcare across the UK.

Three and four year olds

In England, all parents of children aged three and four in England can claim 15 hours of free childcare per week, for 1,140 hours (38 weeks) a year, at an approved provider.

This is a universal offer open to all.

It can be extended to 30 hours where both parents (or the sole parent) are in work, earn the weekly minimum equivalent of 16 hours at the national minimum or living wage, and have an income of less than £100,000 per year.

Two year olds

Previously, only parents in receipt of certain benefits were eligible for 15 hours of free childcare.

But, as of last month, this was extended to working parents.

This is not a universal offer, however.

A working parent must earn more than £8,670 but less than £100,000 per year. For couples, the rule applies to both parents.

Nine months old

In September, this same 15-hour offer will be extended to working parents of children aged from nine months. From 12 May, those whose children will be at least nine months old on 31 August can apply to received the 15 hours of care from September.

From September 2025

The final change to the childcare offer in England will be rolled out in September 2025, when eligible working parents of all children under the age of five will be able to claim 30 hours of free childcare a week.

In some areas of Wales, the Flying Start early years programme offers 12.5 hours of free childcare for 39 weeks, for eligible children aged two to three. The scheme is based on your postcode area, though it is currently being expanded.

All three and four-year-olds are entitled to free early education of 10 hours per week in approved settings during term time under the Welsh government's childcare offer.

Some children of this age are entitled to up to 30 hours per week of free early education and childcare over 48 weeks of the year. The hours can be split - but at least 10 need to be used on early education.

To qualify for this, each parent must earn less than £100,000 per year, be employed and earn at least the equivalent of working 16 hours a week at the national minimum wage, or be enrolled on an undergraduate, postgraduate or further education course that is at least 10 weeks in length.

All three and four-year-olds living in Scotland are entitled to at least 1,140 hours per year of free childcare, with no work or earnings requirements for parents. 

This is usually taken as 30 hours per week over term time (38 weeks), though each provider will have their own approach.

Some households can claim free childcare for two-year-olds. To be eligible you have to be claiming certain benefits such as Income Support, Jobseeker's Allowance or Universal Credit, or have a child that is in the care of their local council or living with you under a guardianship order or kinship care order.

Northern Ireland

There is no scheme for free childcare in Northern Ireland. Some other limited support is available.

Working parents can access support from UK-wide schemes such as tax credits, Universal Credit, childcare vouchers and tax-free childcare.

Aside from this, all parents of children aged three or four can apply for at least 12.5 hours a week of funded pre-school education during term time. But over 90% of three-year-olds have a funded pre-school place - and of course this is different to childcare.

What other help could I be eligible for?

Tax-free childcare  - Working parents in the UK can claim up to £500 every three months (up to £2,000 a year) for each of their children to help with childcare costs. 

If the child is disabled, the amount goes up to £1,000 every three months (up to £4,000 a year).

To claim the benefit, parents will need to open a tax-free childcare account online. For every 80p paid into the account, the government will top it up by 20p.

The scheme is available until the September after the child turns 11.

Universal credit  - Working families on universal credit can claim back up to 85% of their monthly childcare costs, as long as the care is paid for upfront. The most you can claim per month is £951 for one child or £1,630 for two or more children.

Tax credits -  People claiming working tax credit can get up to 70% of what they pay for childcare if their costs are no more than £175 per week for one child or £300 per work for multiple children.

Two big economic moments dominated the news agenda in Money this week - interest rates and GDP.

As expected, the Bank of England held the base rate at 5.25% on Wednesday - but a shift in language was instructive about what may happen next.

Bank governor Andrew Bailey opened the door to a summer cut to 5%, telling reporters that an easing of rates at the next Monetary Policy Committee meeting on 20 June was neither ruled out nor a fait accompli.

More surprisingly, he suggested that rate cuts, when they start, could go deeper "than currently priced into market rates".

He refused to be drawn on what that path might look like - but markets had thought rates could bottom out at 4.5% or 4.75% this year, and potentially 3.5% or 4% next.

"To make sure that inflation stays around the 2% target - that inflation will neither be too high nor too low - it's likely that we will need to cut Bank rate over the coming quarters and make monetary policy somewhat less restrictive over the forecast period," Mr Bailey said.

You can read economics editor Ed Conway's analysis of the Bank's decision here ...

On Friday we discovered the UK is no longer in recession.

Gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 0.6% between January and March, the Office for National Statistics said.

This followed two consecutive quarters of the economy shrinking.

The data was more positive than anticipated.

"Britain is not just out of recession," wrote Conway. "It is out of recession with a bang."

The UK has seen its fastest growth since the tailend of the pandemic - and Conway picked out three other reasons for optimism.

1/ An economic growth rate of 0.6% is near enough to what economists used to call "trend growth". It's the kind of number that signifies the economy growing at more or less "normal" rates.

2/ 0.6% means the UK is, alongside Canada, the fastest-growing economy in the G7 (we've yet to hear from Japan, but economists expect its economy to contract in the first quarter).

3/ Third, it's not just gross domestic product that's up. So too is gross domestic product per head - the number you get when you divide our national income by every person in the country. After seven years without any growth, GDP per head rose by 0.4% in the first quarter.

GDP per head is a more accurate yardstick for the "feelgood factor", said Conway - perhaps meaning people will finally start to feel better off.

For more on where Friday's figures leaves us, listen to an Ian King Business Podcast special...

The Money blog is your place for consumer news, economic analysis and everything you need to know about the cost of living - bookmark news.sky.com/money .

It runs with live updates every weekday - while on Saturdays we scale back and offer you a selection of weekend reads.

Check them out this morning and we'll be back on Monday with rolling news and features.

The Money team is Emily Mee, Bhvishya Patel, Jess Sharp, Katie Williams, Brad Young and Ollie Cooper, with sub-editing by Isobel Souster. The blog is edited by Jimmy Rice.

If you've missed any of the features we've been running in Money this year, or want to check back on something you've previously seen in the blog, this archive of our most popular articles may help...

Loaves of bread have been recalled from shelves in Japan after they were found to contain the remains of a rat.

Production of the bread in Tokyo has been halted after parts of a "small animal" were found by at least two people.

Pasco Shikishima Corp, which produces the bread, said 104,000 packages have been recalled as it apologised and promised compensation.

A company representative told Sky News's US partner network, NBC News, that a "small black rat" was found in the bread. No customers were reported to have fallen ill as a result of ingesting the contaminated bread.

"We deeply apologise for the serious inconvenience and trouble this has caused to our customers, suppliers, and other concerned parties," the spokesman said.

Pasco added in a separate statement that "we will do our utmost to strengthen our quality controls so that this will never happen again. We ask for your understanding and your co-operation."

Japanese media reports said at least two people who bought the bread in the Gunma prefecture, north-west of Tokyo, complained to the company about finding a rodent in the bread.

Record levels of shoplifting appear to be declining as fewer shopkeepers reported thefts last year, new figures show. 

A survey by the Office for National Statistics shows 26% of retailers experienced customer theft in 2023, down from a record high of 28% in 2022.

This comes despite a number of reports suggesting shoplifting is becoming more frequent. 

A  separate ONS finding , which used police crime data, showed reports of shoplifting were at their highest level in 20 years in 2023, with law enforcements logging 430,000 instances of the crime.

Let's get you up to speed on the biggest business news of the past 24 hours. 

A privately owned used-car platform is circling Cazoo Group, its stricken US-listed rival, which is on the brink of administration.

Sky News has learnt that Motors.co.uk is a leading contender to acquire Cazoo's marketplace operation, which would include its brand and intellectual property assets.

The process to auction the used-car platform's constituent parts comes after it spent tens of millions of pounds on sponsorship deals in football, snooker and darts in a rapid attempt to gain market share.

The owner of British Airways has reported a sharp rise in profits amid soaring demand for trips and a fall in the cost of fuel.

International Airlines Group said its operating profit for the first three months of the year was €68m (£58.5m) - above expectations and up from €9m (£7.7m) during the same period in 2023.

The company, which also owns Aer Lingus, Iberia and Vueling, said earnings had soared thanks to strong demand, particularly over the Easter holidays.

The prospect of a strike across Tata Steel's UK operations has gained further traction after a key union secured support for industrial action.

Community, which has more than 3,000 members, said 85% voted in favour of fighting the India-owned company's plans for up to 2,800 job losses, the majority of them at the country's biggest steelworks in Port Talbot, South Wales.

Tata confirmed last month it was to press ahead with the closure of the blast furnaces at the plant, replacing them with electric arc furnaces to reduce emissions and costs.

In doing so, the company rejected an alternative plan put forward by the Community, GMB and Unite unions that, they said, would raise productivity and protect jobs across the supply chain.

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