travel to iceland september

12 Great Reasons to Visit Iceland in September (+Seasonal Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: October 18, 2023

Thinking of visiting Iceland in September and wondering what to expect? This guide should answer all your questions. Find out!

Many of our readers ask what is the best time to go to Iceland. As already mentioned in one of the older articles, Iceland winter vs. summer , there is no straightforward answer. Traveling in Iceland is very different depending on what time of the year you visit and every season has its charms. However, on one of my recent trips, I visited Iceland in September and have to admit that it’s a wonderful month to travel in Iceland.

Is September the best month to visit Iceland? Maybe. Can you see and do everything? No. However, September is as close to being the best month to travel to Iceland as it gets. Find out why!

There are various reasons why I think that September is probably the best month to travel in Iceland, especially if it is your first visit to Iceland. This month lets you benefit from some of the best advantages of both – summer, as well as winter travel.

So, without further ado, below are the main reasons to visit Iceland in September. Read on!

Top 5 Experiences in Iceland in September:

• Sky Lagoon .
• Northern Lights .
• Glacier Hike .
• Silfra Snorkeling .
• Blue Lagoon .

Here’s why visit Iceland in September:

1. The weather is a bit like in summer

September is a transitional month between summer and winter weather in Iceland. If you are lucky, you’ll have beautiful sunny days with temperatures of 10-14 C (50-57 F) – that’s also pretty much what summer weather usually looks like in Iceland. But even if you are less lucky with the weather, September temperatures will still normally be above freezing point. Average temperatures in Iceland in September range between 6 and 11 degrees Celsius (43-52 F).

Of course, you will get rain and wind in September as well, but you can hardly expect anything else, no matter when you visit Iceland. September weather in Iceland is just as unpredictable as during any other time of the year.

Although it might happen, especially in the highlands, the chances of having snow in September in most parts of Iceland are pretty slim.

Good to know: Most campings are still open in the beginning of September and so this is a good month for those who are traveling on the budget and want to go camping in Iceland .

TIP: Dress warm, no matter what time of the year you’re visiting Iceland. Check my Iceland summer packing list for tips on what to wear in Iceland in September. Don’t forget a warm waterproof jacket!

2. Driving conditions are good

No snow and no ice usually means that you can easily explore Iceland by car without having to worry about the road conditions. The possibility of road closures in September shouldn’t be of much concern, so you can drive the entire Ring Road of Iceland during this time of the year.

Driving in Iceland in September is just the same as driving in summer and that surely makes your trip planning easier. Of course, as always, you have to be prepared for high winds, soft edges, and flying stones that can shatter your windscreen. I always recommend getting full insurance when you rent a car in Iceland.

TIP: We recommend renting your car via the RentalCars website . You can compare different companies and their offers, find the best prices, and also have a much better cancelation policy than with local companies. You are also much better protected in case a local company goes bankrupt as it recently happened with our favorite local provider in Iceland. Recently, we had to cancel two trips and two rental car bookings and RentalCars fully refunded them both. We also always take their ‘full insurance’ option.

3. Long daylight hours, but also dark nights

September has plenty of daylight hours allowing you to fill your days and see more beautiful places in Iceland in less time. In mid September you have about 13 hours of daylight, compared to e.g. just 6 hours in mid November…

The good thing is that it does get dark at night , so you can easily get a good night’s rest. This is much more difficult if traveling in the beginning of the summer when the sun seems to never set.

Also, you can see many amazing sunrises and sunsets without much extra effort of having to get up too early or stay up late.

Another big advantage of the dark September nights is that you can see the Northern Lights. Which brings us to the next point…

4. Northern Lights

There are three conditions you need in order to see the Northern Lights : darkness, clear sky, and at least some aurora activity. With relatively good weather (read, more chance for clear skies) and about 10 hours of darkness, September is a very good month to see auroras in Iceland.

An additional benefit of hunting for auroras in September in Iceland is that it’s much warmer than in the winter months . You can easily stay outside for a couple of hours without the risk of freezing your toes off. Still, be smart and dress warm!

TIP: In this article, you can find more tips on how to see and photograph the Northern Lights (tips for beginners) . Check it out if visiting Iceland in aurora season!

LEARN MORE: Complete Guide & Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland

5. Beautiful autumn colors

A while ago someone asked me about the best places to see fall colors in Iceland. I was thinking, what autumn colors, there aren’t even any trees in Iceland… Well, I was wrong.

September is a beautiful month to watch autumn colors in Iceland. There are indeed just very few trees, but they look beautiful. Furthermore, there are so many small plants and bushes that change colors in autumn. This is especially visible in the Icelandic highlands.

So if you love autumn colors, now you know – the best place to see autumn colors in Iceland is in the highlands. Consider a day trip to Thorsmork or Landmannalaugar .

If you have more time, I really recommend a multi-day Iceland highlands tour with a private driver . It’s A M A Z I N G!

TIP: If you have no time for the highlands, check out Thingvellir National Park on the Golden Circle. I hear that fall colors are just beautiful there in September as well.

6. Iceland’s highlands are accessible

September, especially the first half, is also the perfect time to explore the highlands of Iceland. Most roads in the highlands are only accessible in summer months, from about mid June to the end of September.

F roads (unpaved roads in the highlands) are usually still quite wet and muddy in the beginning of the summer, also the rivers still have much more water making it more challenging to negotiate the river crossings. However, by September the highland roads are usually as dry as they get, making it a very good time to visit.

This still doesn’t mean that you should attempt driving in the highlands in a regular car or even in a small 4WD. You really need a decent-size 4×4 for the Icelandic highlands.

Alternatively, you can easily visit the most popular places in the highlands -Landmannalaugar and Thorsmork – with an organized tour . So no need to rent a more expensive car for the whole trip if you’re just going to the highlands for a day.

Good to know: There are some places in the highlands that you can easily reach on your own (with a car that’s allowed to drive on the F-roads). One such place that is really easy to visit is Haifoss waterfall, just a short drive from the Golden Circle.

LEARN MORE: How to Visit Haifoss Waterfall

7. September is perfect for hiking

Iceland has a lot of hiking possibilities , but not all seasons are equally suitable for hiking. It’s not abnormal to find snow on the hiking trails till the end of June…

However, at the end of the summer, in September, hiking trails are normally free of snow and quite dry, allowing you to explore Iceland’s beautiful scenery on foot.

If you don’t know where to start, I recommend Skaftafell National Park for hiking. It’s not far from the famous Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and is very easy to get to. There are several hiking trails, most of them not that hard, and the scenery is really nice. Here you can find more information about hiking in Skaftafell . If you have 3 hours to spare, I recommend the Svatifoss and Sjónarnípa hike.

Another nice thing to do in September is go on a glacier hike in Iceland. It’s one of the bucket list activities and well worth a few hours of your time. See our full guide below for more information.

LEARN MORE: Iceland Glacier Hike (Complete guide, best tours, and essential tips)

8. Rettir – sheep return from the highlands

September brings a yearly tradition of Rettir in Iceland. Rettir is an annual event, the return of the sheep from the highlands.

As it gets colder, farmers bring their sheep back from the mountains to the farms, where sheep will stay till next spring again. It’s fun to watch this buzzing event: you see farmers on horses, kids howling down the mountains, barking dogs, and even drones – all means are good to find and gather the sheep and lead them home. This is something that you’ll see all over Iceland in the first half of September.

I was wondering how the farmers know which sheep are theirs and how do they find them all in the highlands… Apparently, it’s not uncommon for a farmer to find sheep that belong to somebody who lives a few hours drive away. All the sheep are marked and so, in the end, they always get back to their lawful owner, even if it means they have to come and get them on the other side of the island…

9. Fewer tourists

Iceland is becoming an increasingly popular travel destination. However, visiting Iceland in September, you can expect much fewer crowds than in July or August .

Even Reykjavik and the surrounding areas are not too crowded in September.

Not only will you meet fewer people at the most popular landmarks of the South Coast and even less in the Myvatn area in North Iceland , but you will also feel it in your wallet. Read on!

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Reykjavik

10. Cheaper flights

As school holidays are over or coming to an end, travel demand is much lower in September. This means that you can find much better flight deals to Iceland if you are visiting in September, compared to the summer.

But the cheap flights are not the only advantage of traveling to Iceland in the shoulder season like September. Read further…

11. Bigger choice of better-value accommodations

While Reykjavik has seen incredible growth in terms of tourist facilities over the last few years, the rest of Iceland is just catching up. It means that accommodations are scarce and have to be booked well in advance.

Once again, as there is less demand in September, you have a bit more choice when it comes to finding suitable accommodations in Iceland. More choice usually means better deals as well. Still, don’t wait till the last minute – the sooner you book, the more choice you have, and at better prices.

TIP: Here you can find my selection of the best places to stay in Iceland . And here – our complete guide to Reykjavik hotels and accommodation .

Alternatively, take a look at the map below, where you can compare hotels and short-term rentals in Iceland. Simply insert your travel dates and group size and you can see what’s available for your stay. You can zoom in and zoom out for various locations along Iceland’s Ring Road. Check it out!

12. Wild berries

This is just a bonus point, probably not the deciding factor to plan a September trip to Iceland. But if you are visiting Iceland in September anyway, I guess it’s good to know that September is the best season to find all kinds of wild berries , including blueberries, bilberries, and crowberries.

Lots and lots of free and healthy food just waiting to be picked up and eaten on the go… Such a great way to enjoy the nature of Iceland even more, don’t you think?!

So if you are planning a trip to Iceland, but are not sure when to go, now you know what to expect when visiting Iceland in September. I think that September is an excellent month to visit Iceland for the first time.

Traveling to Iceland in September? Check out these great itineraries:

• 1 Day in Reykjavik : all the must-see places in the city.
• 4 Days in Iceland: Reykjavik + the highlights of the South Coast.
• 7 Days in Iceland: ‘best of’ itinerary that covers all the musts of South & West Iceland.
• 10 Days in Iceland: West and North Iceland + Icelandic Highlands.
• Iceland Ring Road : complete Ring Road itinerary in 10 days, plus suggestions for a few days extra.

READ ALSO: Iceland Itinerary – route suggestions for any trip from 1 to 14 days

More tips for your trip to Iceland:

• Airport transfers: How to Get to Reykjavik from Keflavik Airport .
• Practical tips: Tips for Visiting Iceland .
• Budget: How Expensive is Iceland .
• Packing: What to Wear in Iceland in Winter and What to Wear in Iceland in Summer .
• Tours: Best Tours and Day Trips in Iceland .
• What to see: Must-See Places in Iceland & Iceland South Coast .
• Reykjavik: What to Do in Reykjavik (must-sees) & Best Half Day Tours from Reykjavik .
• Winter: Info and Tips for Iceland in Winter & Best Things to Do in Iceland in Winter .

Lesser-known places in Iceland that you can visit in September:

• Reykjanes Peninsula – near Reykjavik.
• Snaefellsnes Peninsula – West Iceland.
• Heimaey Island – South Iceland.
• Myvatn – North Iceland.
• Siglufjordur – North Iceland.
• Grafarkirkja, Road 76, and Hofsos Pool – North Iceland.
• Hvitserkur – North Iceland.
• Westfjords – a hidden gem off the beaten path.
• Dynjandi Waterfall – Westfjords, the most beautiful waterfall in Iceland.
• Raudisandur Beach – Westfjords.
• Haifoss Waterfall – close to the Golden Circle.

MORE INFO: Iceland travel guide

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Monday 30th of May 2022

Great article. Thanks!

Sunday 27th of March 2022

I just booked Iceland. Is there a way to copy and paste this info into my notes? I tried and cannot. Neither could I copy the other suggestions. Thank you.

Monday 28th of March 2022

Hi Sue, you can always print the info that you need (Cltr+P or Cmd+P), or - instead of sending it all to the printer, save it to a pdf first and then only print the info that you absolutely need. It's also easy enough to bookmark the pages you find useful and consult them when you need the info again. Have a great trip!

Saturday 10th of July 2021

I have a question about the Northern lights planetarium show. My sister thinks its looking at live Northern lights but I am trying to convince her it's a video we watch. Can you answer this for me? We are going in September and want to book our tours.

Hi June, if you refer to the Arora show at the Perlan museum, yes, of course, it's a video. Northern lights is a natural phenomenon, you could never schedule a show and just watch it. You can read more about it in our guide to watching the Northern lights in Iceland. Have a great trip!

Wednesday 2nd of June 2021

Your photography is beautiful and lots of great tips. We are going on a 7 day Viking cruise around the island and really looking forward to it. I will refer to your blog again and again.

Monday 7th of August 2023

Thank you for this. My adult daugher and I are going for 10 days September 7th. This confirms all the info I have been searching about Iceland in September!!

Joanne Gilmore

Saturday 19th of June 2021

@Christine, We'll be on the Viking cruise in September. Have you checked out Cruise Critic? There's a general board called "Iceland's Natural Beauty 2022" (it's really supposed to be 2021) and then there are the individual roll calls. You should check it out!

Glad you found some useful info for your trip on our blog, Christine. Enjoy your trip!

Peter Swinhoe

Saturday 29th of May 2021

Hi Jurga , `1) WHICH ARE THE BEST TOUR CAMPANIES IN ICELAND FOR VALUE/ QUALITY ?. WE ARE THINKING ABOUT COMING FOR ABOUT 14 DAYS IN 1ST HALF OF SEPTEMBER 2021 ?, BUT ARE FLEXIBLE FOR 2ND HALF SEPT , IF COMPELLING REASONS .

2)WHICH IS BEST HISTORICAL WEBSITE IN ENGLISH ,TO COMPARE 1ST VS 2ND HALF SEPT RAINFALL ?

3) BEST HISTORICAL WEBSITE IN ENGLISH , FOR COMPARING 1ST VS 2ND HALF SEPT FOR CHANCES OF SEEING NORTHERN LIGHTS ? ROUGHLY WHAT TIME DOES IT GO DARK IN 1ST HALF VS 2ND HALF SEPT?

4) DIFFERENCE IN ACCOMMODATION PRICES AVAILABILITY 1ST HALF VS 2ND HALF SEPT ?

5) IF WE COULD NOT GET A LONGER TOUR , IS IT A LOT EASIER TO BOOK OUR ACCOMMODATION FOR SEPT 2021 THAN JUNE / JULY /AUG ?

6) REFERRING TO Q5 ) , WHAT PRICE SHOULD WE EXPECT TO PAY FOR SOME SUITABLE HIRE CAR ?(4 WHEEL DRIVE ) PER WEEK OR 14 DAYS .

7) WE DON'T HAVE A PARTICULAR BUDGET , BUT SEEK VALUE , WHEREVER APPROPRIATE . MY WIFE PREFERS WARM /COMFORTABLE ACCOMMODATION IN PRIVATE ROOM WITH TOILET (BUT IT DOES NOT HAVE TO BE LUXURIOUS ) , TO CAMPING ,BUT SHE CAN BE FLEXIBLE . THANKS FOR YOUR HELP , JURGA.

Monday 31st of May 2021

Hi Peter, that's a lot of questions and I really don't know if I can help you with all of them... 1. There are many good companies, depends on what you are looking for. 2-3. No idea, really. :) It would never occur to me to look for something like that. There's really nothing more unpredictable than Icelandic weather and no historic data will help you to guarantee that you have amazing weather. If you are going for two weeks, you'll just have to be prepared for everything anyway. You should always expect lots of wind and also rain. If you are lucky, you'll get a few days of sunshine too. You just never know. If I recall well, it gets dark at around 8-9 PM in September, depends on when exactly and where you are. For auroras, please see this guide - Northern Lights in Iceland. 4. That depends on accommodation and on demand. The best way to compare is just simply to check booking.com for your travel dates. I don't expect there will be a significant difference in price for the same place. What you're likely to have is more availability at the end of September, and thus more choice of accommodations in all budgets. But this year is so different than 'normal', that it's really hard to say. 5. The same answer as above - just check what's available. This year is very different and there's still a lot of availability because travel is just starting and many people are booking last-minute. 6. Please see here for car rental prices - simply insert your travel dates, and you'll see all the best cars and deals. There's so much difference depending on the time when you travel and the car you rent. 7. There are so many amazing accommodations in Iceland - you really won't have a problem finding something nice with private facilities. If you are not sure where to stay, take a look at this guide: Where to stay in Iceland. Hope this helps. Good luck with the planning!

Iceland in September: 11 expert tips on Northern lights-spotting, glacier hikes, and other fall adventures

September marks the transitional month between summer and winter, and visiting Iceland during this time gives you the best of both worlds. The residual warmth of Iceland’s summer means that many popular summer attractions will still be open, and there’ll still be clear roads that are easy to navigate.

As September is considered the off-season in Iceland, you can expect fewer crowds and lower prices than summer, with the additional benefit of being able to see the magical Northern Lights and stunning fall colors.

Weather in Iceland in September and what to wear

Visiting Iceland in September means temperatures are still warmer than usual, with an average high of 53ºF and a low of 44ºF. However, the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable and winds can be very chilly.

Pack layers to prepare for the erratic weather. Bring along both light (think: T-shirts, thin long-sleeved shirts) and warmer layers (fleece, jumpers, thermals) to adapt to the changing weather conditions.

Bring along a waterproof and windproof jacket and good hiking shoes; water-resistant boots are highly recommended. Finally, don’t forget your swimsuits for dips in the various hot springs and pools.

Top things to do in Iceland in September

1. spot whales and dolphins.

September is the peak season for whale-watching in Reykjavik . You can spot the magnificent blue whales, humpback whales and dolphins during this time. Hop on a whale-watching cruise with a guide to watch these playful mammals.

2. Catch the Northern Lights

September is one of the best times to catch the Northern Lights due to darker nights in fall. It’s also a lot warmer to stay out than in the winter months. Boost your chances of catching the Northern Lights by booking a Northern Lights bus tour led by experienced guides. Or catch the aerial displays from the viewing platform of a boat with this night cruise Northern Lights tour .

3. Soak in a hot spring or a swimming pool

One of the best things about September is that the water will still be warm, which makes it perfect for soaking in a hot spring or swimming in the many natural pools in Iceland. The Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most famous swimming pool with wonderfully warm water kept at 100°F year-round. To get the most out of your time, go on a tour that will take you around the Golden Circle , including the spectacular Kerid Crater and the Gullfoss Waterfall before ending the day at the Blue Lagoon.

4. Drive the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Just a two-hour drive from Reykjavik, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula boasts volcanic craters, lush valleys and lava fields, glaciers, waterfalls, hot springs, and salmon rivers. Rent a car to explore the peninsula or join a tour that will take you to the top attractions, including Djúpalónsandur Bay and Mt. Kirkjufell .

5. Kayak among glaciers and icebergs

With winter fast approaching, September is your last chance to go kayaking on Icelandic waters. There are multiple tours to choose from, depending on where you'd like to start. Kayaking on the Sólheimajökull Glacier Lagoon is a popular choice. Or experience the glaciers, icebergs and lakes in Vatanajökull National Park on this glacier kayak tour . Keep your eyes peeled for the curious seals, seabirds, and even Atlantic puffins.

6. Visit Hraunfossar Waterfall

The foliage surrounding Hraunfossar Lava Waterfall is at its best during fall when the hues of orange add to the beauty of the area. The drive to Hraunfossar Lava Waterfalls from Reykjavik is under two hours. Walk around the well-maintained paths and bridges around the waterfall to soak up the charm of this place.

7. Explore the remote Westfjords

The remote Westfjords in northwest Iceland is breathtaking. In September, the roads are still clear but it will be quieter than in the summer months. Top sights in the Westfjords include the Dynjandi waterfall , Látrabjarg cliffs and Vigur island . Here’s your chance to ride an Icelandic horse: book a private horse riding tour for a beautiful outdoor gallop through the countryside in Ísafjörður .

8. Tackle a glacier hike

Hiking through the mountains is a whole new way to experience the beauty of Iceland. Skaftafell National Park is a good place to start and it’s not far from the famous Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon . There are multiple hiking routes to choose from and the scenery is always incredible. Want to join like-minded hikers? Book yourself on this small group glacier hike tour and explore the ice sculptures with a certified guide. On the South Coast, Solheimajokull Glacier is great for beginners. Join this small group tour for a memorable experience.

9. Tour an ice cave

The traditional ice cave season in Iceland runs from November to March, but there are two ice caves that can be explored all year round. For an outstanding experience, hop on a jeep tour from Vik and discover the Katla Ice Cave located in Kötlujökull Glacier. Alternatively, take a day trip from Reykjavik and explore the Langjökull Ice Cave, the world’s largest man-made ice cave located in Langjökull Glacier .

10. Join the annual sheep round-up

Every September brings Réttir, the annual sheep round-up which continues into October. Icelandic sheep roam free during summer and they need to be rounded up before winter. Farmers will walk or ride their horses around the mountains to herd the sheep back to the farms. And the best part is the whole community can join in this tradition—tourists are invited, too. The Skagafjörður area has some impressive Réttir tradition and is not far from Reykjavik. Bjarteyjarsandur farm and Faxi Waterfall are also excellent places for a Réttir experience.

11. Go puffin-spotting

A symbolic animal of Iceland, the puffins typically arrive in April and leave by early September. They nest along the coastline on the many islands around Iceland, like Heimaey in the Westman Islands ( Vestmannaeyjar ), which has the largest puffin colony in Europe.

Alternatively, the Látrabjarg bird cliffs in Westfjords , which are a little over an hour away from the town of Patreksfjordur , are also home to one of the larger puffin colonies in Iceland. Sign up on a puffin and volcano tour with a local guide to boost your chances of spotting these adorable creatures, or take a puffin cruise to Akurey Island and get up close to the puffins in their natural environment.

Recommended tours and activities

More like this:

• How to visit Iceland in summer: 10 expert tips on maxing out your trip during those midnight sun days
• 3 unforgettable ice caves in Iceland and where to find them
• 5 stunning black sand beaches in Iceland and how to find them

September in Iceland – The Must Do’s and Must-Knows!

September is a stunning time to visit Iceland as the country shows off a fabulous array of colors in fall. It’s not only the fauna that changes its color, but the bright summer nights also become twilight autumn nights with dancing Northern Lights in all their blue, green and purple glory.  September also means a return to routine for most people after the heady freedom of summer. 

However, if you are pushing your summer vacation into fall and visiting Iceland in September there is still a lot to see. September is even known to squeeze out incredible sunny days and the color scheme that nature plays out is mind-blowing! 

So,  if a fall in Iceland is on your mind keep on reading to learn everything there is to know about Iceland in September. 

Weather in September

September marks the profound seasonal change and beginning of fall in Iceland. This you can simply feel in the air and see in the flora around.  It is the month Icelanders welcome colder temperatures and start closing the window before bedtime. After all, the average temperature is only about 8°C (46,4 Fahrenheit). Nonetheless, it is an incredibly cozy time often accompanied with a nice wool blanket and some hot chocolate. Icelanders see an increase in rain and wind but the weather can also be quite mild!  Fall in Iceland is an idyllic time to take a walk in nature, do some last-minute hiking before the highlands close up or go berry picking in the hills right outside the capital. 

Still, it is important to keep in mind that the Icelandic weather can be very unpredictable. This can result in packing being a bit of a challenge but we will help you with that bit further on in the blog. 

 But it goes without saying that all of this interesting weather is, of course, all a part of the authentic Iceland experience!

Daylight in September

September has an average of about 13 hours of daylight. The sunrise starts around six in the morning and the sun sets around ten in the evening. This is the month we say GOODBYE to the midnight sun and HI to the Northern Lights.

There is a great difference between the beginning of the month and the end. The later you visit the fewer hours of daylight. In the beginning, the hours of daylight are about 14,5 but by the end of the month, they are only reaching about 11,5. Furthermore, if you go closer to the arctic circle your daylight hours will be cut even shorter. Nevertheless, this is the absolute best time to visit to enjoy maximum lights but still have a chance to catch some Northern Lights action in the night skies! 

Northern Lights in September

One of the most popular questions we are asked in relation to September is whether you will be able to see the Northern Lights. The answer is, YES! The Northern lights season officially starts in mid-September and lasts until mid-April when the midnight sun arises from its winter hibernation. In September the Northern Lights come out in full swing and put on quite the show. You will only be able to see the lights from 10 o’clock in the evening when the sun starts to set, and it starts to fully dark.

Iceland is famous for displaying a great variety in colors than other Northern Lights friendly countries. Something that the locals take great pride in. Due to this fact and their love for the lights, many solar activity experts work hard throughout the season to find the best night and locations to view them. Luckily many of these Aurora experts work as guides on our Northern Lights Tours! Providing you an excellent opportunity to just sit back and relax, skip the planning and simply be picked up only to then be dazzled by nature’s beauty.

Northern Lights on your own 

If you are looking to venture off on your own to find the Northern Lights you need to make sure to check out the Aurora activity before you go. The Icelandic met office provides some great Northern Lights forecast and road.is help with which roads are open and which are closed.

Read our detailed blog on how to become an expert Northern Lights hunter .

Learn to take that perfect photo of the Northern Lights.

Can you see puffins in September?

Iceland is one of the best places on earth to spot puffins . From April each year, the island is the biggest puffin colony in the world. A fact that the locals hold very dear. However, unfortunately, they leave our small island in late August. If you are traveling to Iceland early in September, there might still be hope but that is not a guarantee. We will leave it down to luck if there are any that delayed their travels. If spotting a puffin is on your Iceland bucket list, we recommend you visit Iceland from April until late August.

What pack for September

Like we mentioned before the weather in Iceland can be very unpredictable. One minute the sun is out but the next it’s pouring rain. We have this saying here in Iceland – “if you don’t like the weather, just wait five minutes”. And more often than not, this turns out to be quite useful. 

In September you can expect wet weather. Sometimes Winter King even decides to show up out of the blue and blow the fall leaves away at a moment’s notice. However, you might also be lucky and get a taste of summer (read Icelandic summer, don’t pack your bikini). The key to packing for a September trip in Iceland is, like for any other month, to pack layers! We have made a packing list for you if you pack these things you will be prepared for any weather Iceland might throw at you in September.

Packing list for September in Iceland

• Waterproof rain and wind jacket
• Waterproof pants
• Your camera is a must to catch the Northern lights and the beautiful fall colors
• Hat, scarf and gloves
• Warm sweater (If you need one you can always buy the traditional Icelandic wool sweaters)
• Good waterproof footwear that is also good for hiking
• Bathing suit

What to do in September

Visit a cozy café.

September is the perfect month to experience the cozy café culture that Iceland has to offer. The leader in this cozy café culture is perhaps not surprisingly Reykjavik. But there is no shortage of great cafés in our capital city. A few of our favorite cafés, where you can enjoy a cup of Joe (and some serious people-watching) are Reykjavik Roasters, Kaffibrennslan, Perlan, Kaffihus Vesturbaejar and Aleppo.

Soak in a hot spring or a swimming pool

September is also one of the best months to enjoy the swimming pools and hot springs in Iceland. The weather is still relatively warm, but you get the unique experience of sitting in a warm pool while feeling the brisk breeze and/or cold rain on your face – it surely is refreshing! The swimming pools are also the best way to get in touch with local – don’t be shy to start a conversation with the stranger sitting next to you, it’s what we do!

Read our blog about top hot springs and swimming pools in Iceland

Driving around Iceland in September

When driving in Iceland in September it is important to expect the unexpected. As we mentioned, the typical weather in September is that there is no typical weather. Make it a rule to always check the weather forecast and the road conditions before you head for the road. Then we recommend you stay updated by checking safetravel.is.

You should be able to drive any type of car in Iceland in September no matter where you are planning to travel, just be aware that fall and winter arrive sooner in the North, Westfjords and in East Iceland . If you are planning to drive to those parts of the country, we recommend that you rent an AWD or 4×4 vehicle. Note that the wind can cause sandstorms, so it is important to make sure not to park the car in an open field as it can cause damage to the car. Finally, we recommend that you always have your sunglasses handy – the low rise autumn sun in Iceland can be tricky and cause blinding effects while driving.

You can of course always contact us if you have any questions, after all, we are the experts.

Learn more about the Do’s and Don’ts of driving in Iceland. 

Learn how to choose the perfect car for your road trip in Iceland .

Must see places in September

September marks the beginning of the “off-season” in Iceland. Therefore popular tourist sites will be less crowded than in summer making it the perfect time to visit. These are our must-see places in Iceland for September.

Experience Reykjavik

The atmosphere in Reykjavik is different in the fall, people settle in their everyday life after summer vacation and students become students again. This means there are more Icelanders in Reykjavik – not only tourists! With plenty of museums, unique buildings, cute cafés, great restaurants and excellent shopping it is well worth a visit and we are sure everyone will find something to their taste!

Read our blog what to do in Reykjavik when it rains .

Drive along the Snaefellsnes peninsula

An area rich in myth and legend, Snaefellsnes peninsula in fall should definitely be added to your Iceland itinerary. The peninsula holds some of the most breath-taking sites Iceland has to offer, misty fjords and a towering volcano under a glacier that dates back to the ice age. The best thing about it is that is only a few hours drive away from Reykjavik – the perfect day tour .

Explore the Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most famous attraction. The main stops on this tour are the gems of Iceland – Gullfoss waterfall, the world-famous Geysir geyser area and Thingvellir National park.  The great thing about exploring the Golden Circle during September are the array of fall colors that somehow manage to intensify the beauty that was before. 

Visit the Remote Westfjords

The reason why we have put the Westfjords on the must-see places in September is that it might be your last chance to see it before it becomes near inaccessible during the winter. The Westfjords are a less traveled destination in Iceland but in our opinion one of the best. It is undoubtedly a hidden treasure. The region differs from the rest of the island both historically and geologically, with rock formations that are up to 14 million years old. Its where land meets the sea in the most dramatic term imaginable and deep fjords dotted with occasional small fishing villages snuggling against the slender seaboard.

Find out more about exploring the Westfjords . 

Events and Festivals in September

One of our favorite things about September is the Rettir! The annual sheep round-up starts early in the month and continues into October. Icelandic sheep roam free during summer and therefore need to be rounded up before winter. Farmers, with the help of a few friends, family and maybe some helpful tourists, walk or ride their horses around the mountains and fjords to herd them all back to the “Rettir”.

And that’s where the fun part starts, as farmers try to sort through the woolly hoards to find their confused and/or outraged sheep. After a busy day of sorting the locals celebrate by having a drink (or two) and a dance at the Rettir ball.

Reykjavik International film festival or RIFF

The end of September sees the start of The Reykjavik International Film Festival, Iceland’s biggest film event of the year. With a huge line-up of both international and local films and notable guests, RIFF is a must for any self-respecting film fan.

Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is held annually by the student council of the University of Iceland. Humorously, it is always held in September! The festival takes place right across from the university’s main building. It is a three-day festival and is modeled after the official funfair in Munich.  Most of the famed Icelandic bands, singers and rappers in the Icelandic Music scene will perform. 

It is a great yet budget-friendly way to join the music and night scene in Iceland. 

Reykjavik Jazz festival

The Reykjavik Jazz Festival has been held annually since 1990, making it the longest-running festival in Iceland. It boasts a stellar line-up of jazz and blues artists from around the world playing a variety of styles at local clubs and venues in Reykjavik.

Reykjavik international literary festival

This annual festival brings international writers together for four days at various venues throughout Reykjavik. The purpose of the festival is to introduce the major trends in world literature to Icelandic readers and connect Icelandic and foreign authors and their readers. All events are free and in English.

Ljosanott or the Night of Lights is the annual family and cultural festival in the town of Reykjanesbaer ( Keflavik ) on the Reykjanes peninsula. Stretching over 5 days, the festival is filled with cultural events ranging from art, theater and music performances mostly performed by local artists. Several family-friendly activities are on offer as well as a carnival where the kids can entertain themselves in all kinds of rides.

Multiple pop-up shops appear on the main street as well as food trucks for the hungry. The highlight of the festival is an outdoor concert on Saturday night followed by a magnificent firework display over the harbor.

Ideal tours in September

Northern lights mystery.

Hunt for the Northern Lights!

Reykjavik beer tour

Get to know Icelandic beer!

Game of Thrones tour

Why not see some of the filming locations for popular TV series Game of Thrones ahead of the final season?

Horseback riding tour

Take in the gorgeous fall colors on a horseback riding tour

Hot springs and cool glaciers super jeep tour

Catch that contrasting feel of summer and fall on our Hot Spring and Cool Glacier Superjeep tour

Snæfellsnes Express Road Trip

Go on a 5-day road trip of a lifetime through the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Iceland Grand discovery

Last chance to go on our largest road trip we have ever created

Spectacular west

Be among the first ones to travel to the mysterious Westfjords of Iceland!

Travel to Iceland

Tours & Vacation

• Jul 27, 2023

Your Guide to Iceland in September

September marks the last of what remains of our summer season here on the island but with a few hidden benefits. As a shoulder month, visiting Iceland in September means that you still get to experience everything that our warm peak season has to offer, but with fewer downsides.

So, if you’ve got an upcoming trip to the island in September or are still wondering whether September in Iceland is the right fit for you - read on. We tell you everything you need to know to make your decision and plan the ultimate trip to Iceland in September!

The Weather in Iceland in September

The weather in Iceland may slowly be creeping into the fall season here on the island, but you essentially still get the tail-end of our nice summer weather. Iceland’s temperature range in September is between 6-11 degrees Celsius, and the average tends to hover around the 8-degree mark.

So, you don’t need to contend with those below-freezing temperatures Iceland can serve up. Our harsher weather elements also still seem to be on summer break, and you’re looking at an average windspeed of only 17 kilometers an hour compared to the 35+ kilometers an hour you experience mid-winter.

September is also one of our months with the least rainfall (totaling just 66 mm throughout the month). If you’ve got a jam-packed trip itinerary, the daylight hours are also playing along, and you will have 13 hours of daylight to work with each day.

Visiting Iceland in September; the Pros and Cons

Just like most things in life, traveling to Iceland in September has its pros and cons. And whilst September might be the perfect month for one person to plan their trip, it might be completely wrong for another. Check out the nifty overview of pros and cons below to see if September is a good time for you to come to the island:

The weather in September might slowly be going south, but it’s definitely not very apparent, and you still get to experience some of the best weather you can get in Iceland.

Although you still get some of the nice summer weather, the fall that’s slowly approaching turns the Icelandic landscape into a beautiful kaleidoscope of colors that are pretty popular amongst photographers (whether amateur or pro).

Road conditions are pristine, and the roads and routes that usually close during the colder months of the year are still open (making it the perfect time to go on a road trip).

You’ve essentially hit the sweet spot when it comes to daylight hours. Even though you may not get as much daylight as during mid-summer, the hours of darkness make it possible to spot the Northern Lights in Iceland in September.

Most of our summer peak season crowds have left, so you don’t need to worry that you’ll be competing for everything from accommodation and transport to visibility at our attractions.

With peak season crowds being in the rear-view mirror, so are peak season prices, and you’ll find everything from flights to attractions and activities much more affordable.

If you consider yourself an animal lover, you’ll be glad to know that you’ve managed to come at a time when you can still see the last of our migratory whales.

Daylight hours may still be in abundance, but it’s no longer enough for you to experience another one of Iceland’s most famous phenomena; the Midnight Sun.

Although the weather is still pretty amazing, you cannot come to the island and expect our mid-summer weather, and you can’t come expecting Caribbean fall weather either. It is still Ice land, after all.

Since it’s no longer peak season, operating hours for public transport as well as activities and attractions here on the island, may change. This means that they might only be operational for certain hours of the day or certain days of the week – remember to check before you head out.

Whilst you still get to see the migratory whale species here in Iceland, you’ve just missed another famous visitor to the island; the Puffins.

What to Pack for Iceland in September

Things can get confusing when you’re packing for a country called Iceland that’s heading toward fall, but you’re still dealing with some summer weather. That’s why we created this handy packing list that you can use as a guide:

Waterproof jacket

Waterproof pants

Waterproof hiking boots

Travel umbrella

Warm wool socks

Hats (one for the cold and one to protect against the sun)

Thermal leggings

Casual pants

Casual Jacket

Warm gloves

Long-sleeve shirts

Bathing suit

Quick-dry towel (you don’t want to be carrying around wet stuff)

Flip flops (to use at the hot springs and other public restrooms)

Water bottle

Backpack (suitable for both hiking in Iceland and day outings)

Electrical device essentials: adapter, chargers, cables, power banks

The Best Things to Do in Iceland in September

In a month where you can enjoy the very best of both seasons, you can rest assured that you’ll find plenty of things to do in Iceland in September. Here are a few things you can consider adding to your trip itinerary:

Go on a Road Trip

With road conditions still pristine and nice weather, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t take on some of our popular road trip routes here on the island, such as the Golden Circle or the

Explore the Capital City of Reykjavik

Whether you want to admire our impressive architecture, learn more about the city, or simply stuff your face with delicious local cuisine and craft beer – you’ll be able to do that here in Reykjavik.

Visit Our National Parks

Iceland has 3 national parks; Vatnajokull National Park , Thingvellir National Park , and Snæfellsjokull National Park . Inside all of them, you’ll find a wide variety of attractions and activities.

Take a Walk Along a Black Sand Beach

Iceland’s famous black sand beaches are a result of all the volcanic activity here on the island. A few popular ones to visit are Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and Diamond Beach.

Go on a Whale Watching Boat Tour

Although whales can be found all along Iceland’s coast all throughout the year, you need to grab your chance to spot some of our migratory whale species. Try to go whale watching in Iceland during your September trip, and go on a whale watching boat tour in Husavik (it’s considered to be the whale capital of Iceland).

Visit Our Museums

Iceland has many interesting museums that are well worth a visit. Some of these are Perlan , the Icelandic Phallological Museum , and the Saga Museum .

Hike a Glacier

Traversing across a gigantic piece of ice is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Due to safety concerns, you can only do this activity on a guided tour, so remember to book your spot.

Go Horseback Riding

Now you can explore the Icelandic landscape on the back of the island’s own breed of horse, the Icelandic Horse . Experience the island as well as what makes these horses so popular.

Check Out a Volcano

As you can imagine, the Land of Fire and Ice has plenty of these. Go and take a hike and explore one of these giants, such as Askja or Eyjafjallajökull.

Have a Relaxing Soak in a Hot Spring

Our hot springs are another result of all the volcanic activity here on the island that actually causes the underground water supply to heat up. Today you can enjoy these hot springs either in their natural form or as a geothermal pool. A few places to take a quick dip includes Secret Lagoon , Blue Lagoon , and Kvika Footbath.

Your Adventure Awaits When Visiting Iceland in September!

With so many things to do and see in Iceland in September and so many daylight hours to do it in, it’s very clear that you’re in for the adventure of a lifetime. So, use our article as a guide, plan the trip of your dreams, and give us a shout if you need any help .

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September in Iceland: Weather, Fun Activities & What to Expect

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Visiting Iceland in September is an experience that combines the tail end of summer’s allure with the onset of autumn’s charm. Here’s what you can expect:

Previous Episodes About Months in Iceland

• January in Iceland
• February in Iceland
• March in Iceland
• April in Iceland
• May in Iceland
• June in Iceland
• July in Iceland
• August in Iceland

Weather and Average Temperature

• Climate : September in Iceland marks the transition from summer to autumn but the temperature is still relatively mild.
• Temperature : Average temperatures range from about 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). The days are generally cool and the nights chillier because we have dark nights now that summer is over.
• Precipitation : There’s a fair chance of rain, so waterproof clothing is advised. However, it varies from year to year as to what the weather will be.

Daylight Hours in Iceland

Length of Day : In September, the days start to get noticeably shorter. You can expect around 11 to 14 hours of daylight.

September 1 st – The sun rises at 6:09 AM and sets at 8:44 PM, which is 14 hours and 35 minutes of day light

On September 15 th – The sun rises at 6:49 AM and sets at 7:54 PM, for a total of 13 hours and 5 minutes of day light.

September 30 th – The sun rises at 7:32 AM and sets at 7:01 PM, which means we have a total of 11 hours and 28 minutes of daylight.

Northern Lights : The diminishing daylight hours increase the chances of witnessing the Northern Lights, especially towards the end of the month.

What to Wear in Iceland in September

• Layered Clothing : The key is to dress in layers. Bring thermal wear, sweaters, and a good quality waterproof and windproof jacket.
• Footwear : Waterproof hiking boots are essential for exploring the outdoors.
• Accessories : Don’t forget hats, gloves, and scarves, especially if you plan to stay out at night.

My Ultimate Packing Checklist  will provide you with everything you need to bring. I recommend following the summer list. Just know that it can be a little chilly during the evening in July, especially in the north, so you will need some thicker layers.

Road Conditions & Driving in Iceland during September

• Roads : Most main roads are still easily navigable. You can easily drive the ring road and many highland roads are still open, especially during the beginning of the month. Watch out still for sheep that are on the sides of the road. They might cross at any time, so be ready to stop.
• Weather Impact : Sudden weather changes can affect driving conditions. Be prepared for rain or early snow in higher altitudes. In the north, West fjords, the highlands and parts of the East fjords, it is normal to see some snow on the mountains during this time. It’s winter showing us that it is not far away.
• Driving Tips : Always check the weather forecast and road conditions before heading out. Sites like safetravel.is, road.is, yr.no, vedur.is are all great for checking if there are closed roads due to storms or other bad weather conditions.

Expert Trip Planning Tip for September

If you are looking to avoid the crowds of summer, September is a lovely time to visit. There are still long daylight hours and, as I mentioned above, most, if not all, highland roads are open. Plus, you can potentially see the northern lights!

Even though this is a shoulder season month, I still highly recommend booking accommodations far in advance. More people have been finding out that September is a great time to visit, so there is spillover of people from the peak summer months. This means accommodations you want might be a little hard to snag.

Renting a Car in September in Iceland

If you plan to explore Iceland on your own when you visit, I highly recommend using Go Car Rental Iceland . They are 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.

Renting a Camper Van in September in Iceland

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.

Why You Should Visit in September

• Fewer Tourists : September sees fewer tourists, so you’ll enjoy less crowded attractions.
• Vibrant Autumn Colors : The landscape begins to turn stunning shades of yellow, red, and orange.
• Aurora Borealis : With longer nights, your chances of seeing the Northern Lights increase.
• Highland Access : Some, if not all, highland roads are open at the beginning of the month.

Top Activities to Do

• Northern Lights Hunting : Venture out in the night to catch the spectacular Aurora Borealis.
• Hiking and Trekking : Explore the natural beauty with trails less crowded.
• Hot Springs : Relax in naturally heated geothermal pools.
• Whale Watching : September still offers good opportunities for whale watching.
• Glacier Hiking : Always fun to do this in Iceland regardless of the season.

September in Iceland Events and Holidays

• Reykjavík International Film Festival : A great event for film enthusiasts. It normally takes place from September 26 th – October 6 th .
• Day of Icelandic Nature (Sept 16th) : A day dedicated to appreciating Iceland’s unique nature. While this is not a widespread holiday, it is a nice to have a day dedicated to the nature here. Some institutions have programs, and others go out to pick litter. It is up to you if you want to take part in going out to appreciate nature in some way on this day.
• R éttir sheep roundup: Icelandic sheep are allowed to have what I call the “ultimate summer vacation” in Iceland because they roam and graze freely in many parts of the country. During September and beginning of October, there is a sheep round-up that dates back centuries. Farmers that own the sheep invite their friends and family to help them find the sheep in Iceland’s nature and bring them back to the farms. It sounds fun to those unaccustomed to it, but it is very hard work and long hours. Some farms allow for tourists to join in on the round-up and others are ok with you coming to the sorting day. During the sorting, all the sheep that have been round-up are put into bins for their corresponding owners. You can tell which farm they belong to by the tag on the sheep. After the sorting is finished, the sheep are transported to their respective farms.

Iceland Trip Planning Resources

Before hopping into the random fact of the episode, I want to share some Iceland trip planning resources. I’ve received many amazing emails from listeners of the podcast and followers on social media asking me for my advice on what to do in Iceland.

Due to the high demand for this information, I created some resources. All of the ones I will talk about are available through the tab at the top of this page called “Trip Planning Help”. Click on that and you will find links to everything I am about to share.

Video Trip Planning Consultation with Me

One of the resources is that if you’re interested in getting personalized trip planning advice from me, you can book me for a consultation via this link . After you fill out a survey and pick a time that is available for both of us, we do a one-hour video chat via Google Meet.

During this time, we chat about your interest, parts of the country you want to visit, how to get the most out of your time, helpful information to know about Iceland before coming, and any questions that you have. I always feel delighted when I hear at the end of the call that people feel even more excited about their upcoming trip because of the consultation.

Another great resource is to grab full access to my Iceland map. This map was created for those who want to pick out places and hidden gems around Iceland to make up their own itinerary or add to one that they already created.

With full access, you get over 250 places that I recommend in Iceland, along with four itineraries to use for planning your trip. Those itineraries include a 10-day Ring Road trip, a 3-day South Iceland trip, The Famous Golden Circle and a Reykjanes Peninsula Day Trip.

A one-time purchase gives you lifetime access, which includes any updates I make to the map.

Here is a link to my Iceland map: rexby.com/jewells/Iceland .

Random Fact of the Episode

A few years ago, I headed to Landmannalaugar in mid-September. I had a blast going toward the end of the season because, so few people were there. The one thing that reminded me that weather in the highlands is volatile is that the skies were clear, blue and lovely while we were in the natural hot spring there. In less than 10 minutes, the sky turned gray, cloudy and ominous.

The wind picked up and snow started to fall from the sky. There was no indication in the forecast I had checked that this would happen. It only lasted about 5 minutes or so but it stuck with me. We were in a safe location but there have been others who have underestimated Icelandic weather, which then put them in potentially dangerous, if not fatal positions. I don’t say this to scare anyone but rather to share an experience that is possible anywhere in the country, but especially in the highlands.

Icelandic Word of Episode

September – Yes, spelled the same as September in English but it is said differently in Icelandic.

Visiting Iceland in September offers a unique blend of late summer and early autumn experiences. With its dramatic landscapes transforming colors, fewer crowds, and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights, it’s a perfect time for those seeking a mix of adventure and tranquility. Always be prepared for variable weather conditions and enjoy the diverse range of activities that Iceland has to offer during this beautiful month.

Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega

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All Things Iceland is the go-to resource to learn about Icelandic history, culture, language and nature from the view of an expat.

Recent Podcast

Iceland In September: Everything You Need To Know For The Best Trip Ever

Are you thinking about traveling to Iceland in September? I might be biased, but I truly think September is one of Iceland’s most beautiful months. 

This month also holds a special place in my heart – it’s when my husband and I first traveled to Iceland for our honeymoon, fell in love, and decided to start our new life in Iceland. 🇮🇸

September in Iceland represents the transition from summer to fall.

The weather’s getting cooler, the sky is getting darker, and the leaves are starting to turn. But, it’s still a time when a lot is open, you’ve got ample daylight and the weather hasn’t gotten TOO chilly yet! It’s the perfect time to indulge in a beverage at one of Reykavík’s cool cafes, hit up a hot spring and enjoy the toasty warm water and the cool breeze, or admire the gorgeous fall foliage that’s starting to take over the country.

There’s simply so much to love about Iceland in September! Consider this blog your ultimate guide.

• Icelan d Daylight Hours In September

Northern Lights in Iceland in September

September weather in iceland, temperatures in iceland in september.

• What To Wear in September

Sightseeing Availability

Driving in september, iceland festivals + events.

• Things To Do In Iceland In September

Let’s get into it!

Iceland Daylight Hours In September

The most important thing to consider when planning your Iceland trip, no matter the month, is the number of daylight hours.

The good news is that there’s still quite a bit of daylight in Iceland in September.

At the beginning of September, there’s about 15 hours of daylight, and towards the end, it’s down to 13. 

This is the time of the year when the daylight is starting to decrease. We’re now far, far away from the summer solstice and heading towards the dark days of winter.

However, this is by no means a dark time of the year. You’re still getting plenty of daylight hours to explore, and it actually feels like a normal day to anyone else. 

But trust me, the locals are rejoicing – because we can finally start getting restful sleep! 😂

Speaking of darkness, my all-time favorite thing about September is that it is full-force Northern Lights season ! 

September and October, in my opinion, are the best months to see the northern lights in Iceland!

They put on BIG, beautiful shows during this time. There’s not too much cloud cover and the nights are getting longer – which means more chances to see the aurora!

Get excited if you’re coming to Iceland in September because you have the potential to see some of the best Northern Lights.

WATCH: How to see the Northern Lights in Iceland

The weather in Iceland in September is a bit of a mixed bag. It’s one of the most unpredictable months of the year!

You might even have days where you experience all four seasons in one day . 

Follow the golden rule when it comes to Icelandic weather and come prepared for anything. You might experience high winds, rain, sun, and even snow, just depending on where you are and how the year is going!

Average September temperatures can range from 6-11 degrees Celsius or 42-59 degrees Fahrenheit.

At the beginning, you might get a chance to witness those beautiful, lush, green summer colors. And then towards the end of the month, we’re starting to lose some of that bold green color and things are turning more of a yellow-brown.

Weather Pro Tip: It’s a tricky time of year to plan a visit if you’re wanting to catch the beautiful fall colors. The leaves change and fall off the trees in Iceland really fast, thanks to the strong winds! Catching this transition can be tough as it comes and goes in a flash ⚡️

What To Wear In Iceland In September

Because September weather can be so unpredictable, you want to make sure you pack for all kinds of weather.

Be sure to bring lots of layers! Layering is key to staying warm when it gets chilly in Iceland. And make sure you have rain gear literally from head to toe. September is notoriously rainy and I don’t want you to get caught in the rain and not be able to have the best adventure.

For a full packing list, get my Iceland autumn packing list.  

September offers LOTS of opportunities for exploration as you can travel almost anywhere in Iceland. 

However, there’s one important factor to consider: the Highland roads typically begin closing at some point during September. The exact timing depends on temperature, road conditions, and when the snowfall begins. 

If you visit early in the month, you should have unrestricted access to all roads. But, it’s always a good idea to check with the Icelandic Road Administration to make sure! Apart from the Highlands, you’re free to visit other hotspots in Iceland, such as the Ring Road, Snæfellsnes, Golden Circle, and the Westfjords.

If you’re a wildlife lover hoping to spot some of Iceland’s most famous animals, it’s worth noting September is a tricky time to spot many of these creatures. Some animals, like puffins, may have migrated to the sea, and whales could have already departed. This means the tour availability might be less frequent. Keep this in mind when booking your excursions!

On the bright side, September is considered shoulder season – and brings a significant drop in tourist numbers. You’ll experience fewer crowds at major attractions, and as a result, accommodations are likely to be less expensive and not as busy!

Driving in September is usually a breeze, as long as you don’t encounter any unexpected snowstorms (which are quite rare!). Unless you’re heading into the Highlands, a regular 2WD vehicle should do the trick. Just make sure to double-check if the Highland roads are open before you go.

One more thing to keep in mind is that if you’re planning trips to Landmannalaugar, Thorsmork, or other Highland areas, be aware of the road conditions . During this time, relying on tour companies might not be an option, but you can still drive yourself, as long as you pay attention to the road conditions along the way!

There is so much to see and do in Iceland in September, including a couple of pretty cool cultural events!

• Reykjavik International Film Festival.  This is one of my favorite things to do in Reykjavik in September! This is Iceland’s most famous movie festival where they show over 100 movies from 40 different countries. It takes place in late September and you can find showings happening in different venues all throughout Reykjavik! Fun Fact: The first-place winner is awarded with the coveted Golden Puffin Award. Could this festival be any cuter?!
• Réttir. In September, there’s a fascinating event called “réttir,” which is the annual sheep roundup. During this time, farmers gather and guide their sheep back to the farms. If you’re visiting Iceland in September, it’s fairly likely that you’ll come across one of these roundups. Just be careful while driving, as you might come across a large herd of sheep crossing the road, followed by the farmers. This is such a fun community affair where friends and family all come together to help the farms herd the sheep back into the sorting pens!

Looking for more activities to do on your September trip? I’ve got you covered! 👇

Things To Do In Iceland In September 

Here are some of my go-to recommendations for making the most of your September holiday in Iceland.

• Þórsmörk: Þórsmörk translates to “Thor’s Valley” and is known for its rugged nature and unlimited hiking. Located between three glaciers, this protected nature reserve is teeming with jagged green mountains, deep ravines, and braided glacier rivers ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike. This area is only open from June – September, so it’s a great opportunity to witness the area’s remote beauty before it closes!
• Westfjords: Explore the hidden gem of the Westfjords, where you’ll witness jaw-dropping fjords, dramatic cliffs, charming fishing villages, and untouched wilderness. Get off the beaten path and discover Iceland’s wild side! Bonus points: because September is shoulder season, and the Westfjords are relatively out of the way, you’ll have this remote paradise all to yourself.
• See The Northern Lights: September marks the beginning of the Northern Lights season in Iceland, offering a chance to witness the mesmerizing dance of colorful lights in the night sky! You have a good chance of seeing the aurora, as there’s relatively low cloud cover in September.
• Visit Waterfalls: Get your camera ready and prepare to be amazed by Iceland’s stunning waterfalls. In September, you get a chance to see the falls against a backdrop of autumn hues! For a fun fall hike, you could try hiking to the Glymur Waterfall (about 4 hours round-trip).

Remember, if you loved this information, you can get this and so much more inside my Travel Guides & Maps!   This 176-page PDF guide and handy digital map (with over 500 pinned locations) will help you navigate the country with ease, and give you access to highlights, hidden gems, practical info like fuel stations, restrooms, weather and packing info, plus so much more! 

Happy planning,

Pin it for Later! 👇🏾

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Visiting Iceland in September: What to Expect and Things to Do

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We travelled to Iceland in September and it turned out to be one of the best times to visit Iceland.

We had fewer crowds and lower prices than in the summer and got to see the magical northern lights and beautiful autumn colours.

In this post, I share what to expect when visiting Iceland in September including the weather, road conditions, what to wear, things to do, and the pros and cons of travel at this time of year.

At the end, there is a handy map with everything mentioned.

Key Facts About Visiting Iceland in September

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• There are 12 to 14 hours of daylight.
• You can see the northern lights .
• The weather is beginning to feel wintery . We had temperatures of –2ºC (28ºF) to 5ºC (40ºF).
• Roads are usually clear of snow (except in the uninhabited highlands), but you may see some snow starting to fall on the mountains.
• You can snowmobile (and see lots of snow) on the glaciers.
• It’s less crowded and cheaper than in the summer.
• It’s fall/autumn in Iceland and parts of the country have trees and vegetation that turn beautiful shades of orange and red. There aren’t a huge amount of trees so you won’t see this everywhere.
• Some museums, cafes, and activities in remote areas are closed .
• It’s not the best time to see whales and puffins, but we did spot many seals .

Don’t forget to buy travel insurance for your Iceland trip and make sure it covers Covid-19.

An excellent budget option is SafetyWing (kids under 10 are free). If you want cancellation cover as well, check out Heymondo .

Back to Contents

Our 12-day road trip in September focused on the western side of the island including the stunning Snæfellsnes Peninsula and remote Westfjords .

See our Iceland itinerary for more details on where we went and stayed.

The amount of daylight in Iceland varies widely depending on the time of year you visit.

In the summer the sun barely sets, but in the winter it only rises for a few hours a day.

While both of these seasons would be interesting to experience, visiting in September is more practical for touring as you have around 12 to 14 hours of daylight.

This gives you plenty of time for exploring during the day, you can see sunrise and sunset at reasonable times, and you won’t be kept awake by the midnight sun.

Daylight hours reduce fairly rapidly during the month. In Reykjavik at the very beginning of September, the sun rises at around 6.15am to 6.30am and sets from 8.45pm to 8.30pm giving 14 to 14.5 hours of daylight.

By the end of the month, the sun rises from 7 am to 7.30am and sets from 7.30pm to 7 pm with 12 to 12.5 hours of daylight.

In the far north daylight hours will be slightly longer.

The autumnal equinox takes place in September when the length of day and night is nearly equal. In 2024 and 2025, the equinox will be on 22 September.

One of the things we loved about Iceland was how gorgeous the light is.

Even in the middle of the day the glowing light made it feel like a permanent golden hour. It’s fantastic for photography.

Yes! One of the best reasons for visiting Iceland in September is the chance to see the northern lights (aurora borealis).

They only appear from September to mid-April, and you’ll have a better chance towards the end of September, especially around the equinox (although there were sightings at the end of August this year).

There are no guarantees that you’ll see the aurora borealis at any time of year. We used the Aurora app and Vedur website to check our chances of seeing the lights each day.

You need cloud-free, dark skies away from light pollution, so I recommend spending at least a few nights away from a town.

You can also take a Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik , but it’s not necessary if you’ve rented a car.

We saw the northern lights outside our cabin at Bjarkarholt Guesthouse in the southern Westfjords the day before the equinox and it was stunning!

We visited Iceland in late September and the weather was distinctly wintery—it felt more like England in January.

We had temperatures ranging from –2ºC (28ºF) at night to 5ºC (40ºF) during the day.

It can be warmer than we experienced with the average maximum 11ºC (53ºF) and the minimum 6ºC (44ºF), but the wind-chill factor can make it feel cooler.

In 12 days we had a mix of sunny and cloudy days with two days of heavy rain that we used as an excuse for much-needed days off. The wind was often powerful.

We packed plenty of layers and it never felt too cold to explore. Even in the summer, you can’t guarantee good weather—it’s notoriously unpredictable.

The great thing about September was that we got to see the first snow appearing on the mountains.

One morning we woke in our cabin at Tradir Guesthouse (now closed) on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the mountain next to it was covered in snow.

We also drove through a few snow showers on mountain passes in the Westfjords.

Weather changes fast in Iceland, so it’s important to check the Vedur website or app for weather forecasts during your trip.

At any time of year in Iceland, you’ll want to pack layers to be prepared for the changeable weather.

Other essential items are waterproof hiking shoes or boots, a waterproof jacket (and ideally trousers), a swimsuit for the many hot springs and warm swimming pools, and sunglasses (the sun is often low).

On a typical day, I wore a long sleeve base layer ( Icebreaker merino is best), sweater (or two), fleece, lightweight Patagonia down jacket , thermal leggings under jeans, hat, gloves, thick Smartwool merino wool socks , and waterproof hiking shoes.

Simon usually wore a t-shirt, long sleeve Icebreaker merino wool top , fleece, Mountain Hardwear ultralight down jacket , Bluffworks trousers or jeans, hat, gloves, merino socks, and waterproof hiking shoes.

He often wore waterproof over trousers as extra warmth for his legs (thermal underwear would have been a good addition).

We managed to pack everything we needed in one carry-on backpack each.

See our Iceland packing list for what to pack for Iceland in September.

Although winter in Iceland brings guaranteed snow, it also means that roads become impassable or are icy and difficult to drive.

In September almost all roads were open and easily drivable with no ice.

The exception is the uninhabited highlands in the centre of the island which can only be visited in the summer months.

Most first time visitors to Iceland focus on Reykjavik, southern Iceland, or driving the Ring Road around the whole island and these are easily visited in September.

It’s also the last month to safely visit the Westfjords (which we highly recommend) as in October some roads start to close after snow.

It’s important to check Road.is for road conditions every day in Iceland before setting out.

Do you need a 4WD in September? Technically no, as the roads should be clear. We decided to rent a 4WD, though, as we travelled to the Westfjords which has a lot of rough gravel roads.

If your budget allows, a 4WD is worth it if you are venturing far from Reykjavik for added comfort and security. If not, drive carefully and slowly, and a 2WD should be fine.

We use Booking.com Car Rentals  to find the best deals.

Iceland has become hugely popular in recent years and the busiest months are in the summer, especially July and August when Icelanders also go on holiday.

In summer you’ll need to book accommodation far in advance, prices are higher, and attractions are crowded.

September sees lower crowds and prices and you can find last-minute accommodation—we booked three weeks in advance.

I recommend using Booking to find hotels and cabins and Vrbo for cabins and other self-catering accommodation.

Popular attractions like the Blue Lagoon and Golden Circle will still be crowded, but not as bad as in the summer.

We created an off-the-beaten-track Iceland itinerary and never found the crowds overwhelming.

The biggest downside of travelling in Iceland in September is that some museums, cafes, and tourist activities (like horse riding) are closed outside of the June to August summer months.

This only really affected us in the remote Westfjords area (and to a lesser extent in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula) which sees fewer visitors.

Cafes and attractions in the more visited areas of Iceland near Reykjavik will still be open.

For example, we couldn’t find a riding stable open near Ísafjörður in the Westfjords, so we went to Sturlureykir Horse Farm near Husafell on our way back to Reykjavik instead.

I wouldn’t let this stop you visiting Iceland in September, but it is something to be aware of when planning your trip.

That great sounding cafe in a remote location will likely only be open in the summer, so pack lunch instead.

September is not the best time to visit Iceland for wildlife viewing.

On the plus side we saw seals on multiple occasions (at Ytri Tunga beach on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and in the Westfjords), an Arctic fox at  Látrabjarg cliffs (a rare sight!), and many horses and sheep.

But it’s the wrong time of year for many animals. The best time to see whales in Iceland is from June to August and the puffin season is from April/May until August.

We went to the Látrabjarg cliffs in the Westfjords, which are famous for a huge bird colony (including puffins), but at the end of September we didn’t see a single bird.

The best place to see Arctic foxes is the remote Hornstrandir , but ferries only run there in the summer. You can take a tour in September but they are very expensive.

There are plenty of things to do in Iceland in September. Here are some of our favourites:

Drive the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

There is so much to see on this gorgeous peninsula just two hours from Reykjavik including volcanic craters, lava fields, a glacier, waterfalls, fjords, hot springs, black and golden sand beaches, and cute fishing villages.

We loved seeing the first snow appear on the mountains at the end of September.

You can self-drive as we did or take a tour from Reykjavik . Although it’s possible to see the highlights in a day, I highly recommend spending a couple of nights in the area as there’s so much to see.

See our picks of the best places to visit on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula .

Hraunfossar Waterfall

Hraunfossar waterfall is especially beautiful in the autumn when the bushes above it turn shades of orange.

It’s a wide rather than tall waterfall with lots of small falls gushing into the turquoise river below. You can walk to various viewpoints and to the neighbouring waterfall Barnafoss .

It’s near Husafell which is a good base for trips to the Langjökull glacier, and there are more trees in this area than most parts of Iceland so you can enjoy the autumn foliage.

Snowmobiling and Ice Cave on Langjökull Glacier

Snowmobiling can be done year-round on Langjökull Glacier , but September is better than the summer as snow will already have started falling.

It was snowing while we were up there and we enjoyed having a true wintery experience.

September is too early for the natural ice caves, but you can visit the humanmade ice tunnels at Into the Glacier.

We did an ice caves and snowmobile trip with Mountaineers of Iceland. It was fun but pricey and crowded, so you could skip it if your budget is tight.

You can also book the Langjökull Glacier Ice Cave Tour and Glacier Snowmobile Tour separately.

Northern Lights

One of the most exciting things about travelling to Iceland in September is the chance to see the northern lights.

You need to get away from light pollution, so you can take a northern lights tour from Reykjavik or stay in the countryside.

We saw the aurora from our Bjarkaholt cabin in the Westfjords.

The remote Westfjords in the far northwest of Iceland is best visited before snow closes the mountain passes.

September is ideal as roads should be clear but it’s quieter than the summer months (although some cafes and attractions are closed).

Highlights include Dynjandi waterfall (my favourite in Iceland), Rauðasandur red sand beach , the isolated Strandir Coast , and the cute town of Ísafjörður .

See our Iceland itinerary for details on where we visited in the Westfjords.

Hot Springs and Outdoor Pools

September is cold enough that you’ll really appreciate a soak in a hot spring.

There are many springs and pools all over Iceland. The Blue Lagoon is the most famous, but it’s busy, expensive, and must be booked in advance.

We preferred quieter experiences in the Westfjords where we enjoyed the sunset while relaxing in a hot pot overlooking the sea at Birkimelur Swimming Pool .

Another highlight was swimming in Krossneslaug , an outdoor geothermal swimming pool overlooking the sea.

In September we had it entirely to ourselves and felt like we’d reached the end of the world as we looked out over the waves crashing onto the pebble beach below.

Swimming in a warm pool when it’s cold outside was surprisingly wonderful—don’t miss it!

Horse Riding

Icelandic horses are strong and adorable and have a unique smooth gait. Although a few stables close outside the summer, you’ll still have plenty to choose from in September.

We rode at the family-run Sturlureykir Horse Farm near Husafell. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is another good area where you can ride on black sand beaches and through lava fields.

Go to a Festival

There are a number of festivals and events that take place in Iceland in September, mainly in Reykjavík, some just outside.

Here are a few if you find yourself in the capital at the right time:

• Reykjavík International Film Festival – Takes place in late September each year. In 2024 the dates are 26 September to 6 October.
• The Night of Lights Festival – A family-friendly festival held at the start of September in Reykjanesbær (not too far from Reykjavík) that celebrates the best of local art and music.
• Reykjavik Jazz Festival – Sometimes held at the end of August or the start of September, performances are held in a variety of venues including parks and record stores.
• Extreme Chill Festival – A long-running music festival that celebrates experimental music and visual arts showcasing both Icelandic and international artists.

I would visit Iceland at any time of year, but September is an especially wonderful time to visit.

It is the perfect mix of summer and winter, lower prices and crowds, and the chance to see the magical northern lights.

What’s your favourite time of year to visit Iceland?

Read our other Iceland posts to help you plan your trip:

• Planning a Trip to Iceland: DOs and DON’Ts
• Iceland Itinerary: Off The Beaten Path on a Snæfellsnes and Westfjords Road Trip
• The Ultimate Iceland Packing List for Men and Women (Carry-On Only)
• 14 Places Not to Miss on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
• How Much Does an Iceland Trip Cost? Our Road Trip Budget
• 10 Best Books About Iceland to Read Before You Visit 

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13 Comments

Hi Erin, Great info, stunning photos and I like that you are providing information for the month of September as it is not easy to find the information of what is open and closed. We are thinking of going for 2 weeks. We hope to visit Reykjavik, Snaefallus Peninsula, hopefully Westfjords, Highlands and the region southeast of the island. How many days so you recommend in each area and where should we base ourselves? Thank you!

Reply ↓

Hi Bonnie, you can see our itinerary for Snaefellsnes, Westfjords and Reykjavik here: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/iceland-itinerary/

With 2 weeks you should be able to add on a few days in the southeast. Note that the Highlands might be closed in September due to snowy roads so you may want to skip them this time.

Enjoy Iceland! Erin

Sorry if I missed it. How many days do you recomeend to stay in Iceland?

I’d say at least 5 days and ideally 1 – 2 weeks. I go into more detail in our Planning a Trip to Iceland post.

You did not mention the Sheep roundup Rettir in September? Quite a nice experience, we are visiting Iceland coming September and we are looking forward to taking part in this event.

Great article – we are off to Iceland this September !

Hello Erin,

Good to see an article only for people who want to visit in September. Amazing.

Can you guide me if I can do a glacier hike in September?

Yes, you can!

Hello Erin, I love this article. I always read anything about Iceland cause its one of my must travel places in the future. Is September the best month to visit?

September is a great month to visit if you want to avoid the crowds but not deal with the lack of light and snowy roads in winter.

Great information,I assume you are Australian, who did you fly with???How many stops did you do

Absolutely beautiful pictures! Top of my list is really getting out in nature so seeing the Northern Lights, swimming in hot springs and seeing the waterfalls would top my list. Thank you for all the information! I might just have to move Iceland to the top of my destination list!

Wow! looks stunning. Had no clue that Iceland could actually look like this. Loved it.

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Iceland in September

EVERYTHING TO KNOW ABOUT TRAVELING TO ICELAND IN SEPTEMBER

• Things to See
• Things to Do
• Events in September
• Things to know
• Best Tours to take

Related Tours

Related blog posts.

September in Iceland - What to do? What to wear? What to pack? What is the weather like in September in Iceland? How to drive in September? Can you see the Northern Lights in September in Iceland? And so much more - Read up about September in Iceland before visiting right here!

Planning to visit Iceland in September? You must have a million questions! Where to go in Iceland in September? What to pack? What’s the weather like in September in Iceland? What’s driving like in September? Can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland in September?

Don’t worry, take a breath – we’re here to help you! This Ultimate Guide to September in Iceland will help you make the most out of your trip to our magical country during this enchanting month.

THE BEST THINGS TO SEE IN ICELAND IN SEPTEMBER

Visiting Iceland in September invites you on adventures accompanied by stunning fall colors in lively Icelandic nature and whale-watching. It’s also the perfect time to catch the first glimpse of the  Northern Lights .

Northern Lights in September in Iceland

This is pretty much the only autumn month in Iceland and there are plenty of ways to enjoy it. Here are some of the best places to see in Iceland in September:

Whale Watching

Iceland might be the best place in the world for catching a glimpse of these incredible creatures, and September is the prime time to do it. The chances of spotting one of these gentle giants are very high and being in their presence is a profound, beautiful experience.

Whale Watching from Dalvík, Iceland

Whales are migratory, and they tend to congregate in our icy waters around this time. Visitors are spoiled by the volume and variety of species found in our waters; humpback whales, blue whales, fin whales, minke whales, sperm whales and orcas can be spotted.

The best way to see these whales is by joining a  Whale Watching tour , which can be done either from Reykjavík or from the Whale Paradise at Dalvík .

Epic Fall Colors

Iceland goes through real seasonal landscape changes in September, more than some other countries in the world. If you want to see spectacular hues of yellow, green and brown, be sure to visit  Þingvellir ,  Hraunfossar waterfalls , Heiðmörk, or any other area covered with moss and birch.

Hraunfossar waterfalls in Iceland

Please don’t forget your camera – the photo opportunities are unreal!

Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)

September is the first month when you can see the lights dance in the night sky. After a summer of almost constant sunlight, this is when the great  Northern Lights tours  start and September is one of the best times to visit if you want to see this amazing natural phenomenon.

The wonder of the Northern Lights in Iceland

The lights are often said to be stronger at the beginning and end of the season , so September is a terrific month to catch nature’s greatest light show.

OTHER THINGS TO DO IN ICELAND IN SEPTEMBER

September is the time when crowds die down a little, yet you still get to see most of the attractions and embark upon most of the adventures you would during the summer.  Bars and restaurants are still buzzing, the weather is still very comfortable, and most tours are still in operation.

Try Some Seasonal Food & Drink

Dishes in Iceland are quite seasonal. For most Icelanders, fall time is when you should have lamb soup, drink warm beverages and treat yourself to a slice or two of a homemade rhubarb pie.

Réttir – Icelandic Sheep or Icelandic Horse Roundups

Réttir, or the Annual Sheep or Horse Roundups, are huge social gatherings in Iceland.

Icelandic horses

These events are hosted all over the country and the purpose is to collect the farm animals that have been settling in the highlands over the summertime. People assemble from all over the country to join in helping and observing these ceremonies. Don’t miss out!

Horse Roundups are mainly held in the North:

• Auðkúlurétt near Lake Svínavatn, East-Húnavatnsssýsla
• Árhólarétt in Unadalur Valley, Skagafjörður
• Deildardalsrétt in Deildardalur valley, Skagafjörður
• Flókadalsrétt, Fljótum, Skagafjörður
• Hlíðarrétt near Bólstaðarhlíð, East-Húnavatnsssýsla
• Laufskálarétt in Hjaltadalur Valley, Skagafjörður (a personal favorite)
• Melgerðismelarétt in Eyjafjarðarsveit
• Miðfjarðarrétt in Miðfjörður, West-Húnavatnssýsla
• Skrapatungurétt in East-Húnavatnsssýsla
• Staðarrétt in Skagafjörður
• Tungurétt in Svarfaðardalur Valley, Eyjafjörður
• Unadalsrétt in Unadalur near Hofsós
• Víðidalstungurétt in Víðidalur Valley, West-Húnavatnssýsla

If you're looking for more experiences with the charming Icelandic horse, check out our horseback riding day tours .

Sheep in Iceland

Sheep Roundups, on the other hand, are all over the country:

• Oddstaðarétt in Borgarfjörður, West Iceland
• Rauðsgilsrétt in Borgarfjörður, West Iceland
• Þverárrétt in Borgarfjörður, West Iceland
• Hítardalsrétt in Borgarfjörður, West Iceland
• Kjósarétt in Kjós
• Hrafnkelsstaðarétt in Grundarfjörður, the town below Kirkjufell
• Kirkjufellsrétt in Haukadalur near the Golden Circle
• Fossárrétt in East-Húnavatnassýsla
• Undirfellsrétt in Vatnssdalur, East-Húnavatnssýsla

Berry Picking

One of the great perks of living in Iceland is its safety. Not only is the crime rate one of the lowest on the planet, but we also don’t have any threat-posing wild animals; no poisonous spiders, no snakes, no lions, tigers or bears – oh my!

Berry Picking in Iceland

So, pick all the berries you want and wander safely in the hills while doing so. September is one of the best berry-picking months. Keep an eye out for blueberries and crowberries – they make for a delicious treat!

Visit a Natural Pool

September is a beautiful month to visit any pool, whether it’s  natural or man-made .

Krossneslaug bathing in Westfjords of Iceland

This is especially the case for natural ones, which are best to visit from May to September as, after September, they tend to get a bit too cold! Hrunalaug, Krossneslaug, and Birkimelur are good examples of quality natural pools.

Events in Iceland in September

Despite being at the tail end of the holiday season, September is a busy month with all sorts of events in Iceland. Here are a few of our favorites.

Ljósanott – the Night of Lights Festival

Ljósanótt is held in the town of Keflavík on the Reykjanes peninsula . It’s a full day and night of concerts and art shows where the town is lit up by lights, hence the name.

This event attracts countless Icelanders and international visitors. Indeed, many travelers from all over Iceland join this night of celebration and we recommend you join them too. The night ends with a spectacular fireworks show.

Find out more information on Ljósanótt .

Reykjavik International Film Festival – RsIFF

Reykjavík International Film Festival (or RIFF) is one of the biggest and most diverse cultural events in Iceland.

Film Festival in Iceland

This is an inventive and exciting film festival, incorporating feature films, short films, documentaries, and special guest appearances.

Find out more about the RIFF .

Oktoberfest

Beer was banned in Iceland for a number of years, so we’re always keen to make up for the lost time and embrace our favorite beverage.

You might have noticed a paradox of having Oktoberfest in September. The reason we hold this beer festival a month early is that most of the activities take place outdoors and the Icelandic weather in October can be quite brutal.

This event takes place at the University of Iceland, where two to three huge tents are placed (a short walking distance from downtown).

Oktoberfest at the University in Iceland

Find out more about SHÍ’s Oktoberfest .

GOOD TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING ICELAND IN SEPTEMBER

• The fall colors start to show in September, so bring a quality camera (or a phone with a great camera);
• Puffins   mostly leave the island in late August. However, if you arrive early in September, there’s still a chance to see these adorable birds. By late September you are unlikely to see puffins;
• One of the best things about September is that the Gulf Stream brings in some warm ocean waves. This means that this is the best month of the year for Icelandic sea swimming, surfing, and other ocean activities;
• Roads are very accessible in September in Iceland, thanks to the mild weather and long evenings.

The road from Keflavik

DAYLIGHT IN ICELAND IN SEPTEMBER

The official number of hours of sunlight in Iceland in September is a hot topic. In early September, daylight lasts for a little over 14 hours a day , giving you plenty of time to explore and enjoy the sights, but allowing you a good night’s sleep when the sun finally goes down.

Towards the end of the month, the sun doesn’t set for 11 hours and 35 minutes. So, Icelandic daylight in September is reasonably generous, and for many visitors, ideal.

Iceland Weather in September

Weather in Iceland in August and September can be very unpredictable.

In September, we welcome slightly cooler weather, with some elements of summer and still comfortable temperatures.

Hiking in Thorsmork Valley, Iceland

However, autumn brings an increase in rainfall, so pack accordingly.

The weather in Iceland is notoriously fickle, and you can never predict it. What we can say is that wind and rain are common while snow is unlikely. The sunshine and warm weather can also be present but don’t count on them.

Temperatures in September in Iceland are around 5°c – 10°c (41-50 Fahrenheit).

For more information, we’ve put together a separate, substantial post about   Icelandic weather .

WHAT TO PACK FOR ICELAND IN SEPTEMBER

As we mentioned before, September is the month to pack for wet weather .

Bring with you good thermal underwear to keep yourself cozy and warm. Your middle layer should be a sweater and pants, followed by a waterproof jacket and (if necessary) waterproof slacks. Rainproof hiking shoes or rain boots are your best bet when venturing out of the city. In Iceland, the saying “there is no bad weather just bad clothing” has proven itself over and over again and we suggest you prioritize comfort over style!

WHAT TO WEAR IN ICELAND IN SEPTEMBER?

• Hat, scarf, and gloves
• Waterproof pants and jacket
• Rainproof footwear – boots or hiking shoes
• Quality warm socks, more than you would usually bring

How to dress in Iceland for September

The Best Tours to take in September in Iceland

What to do in Iceland in September? Here is a list of the best tours to do in September in Iceland:

Blue Ice Glacier Hiking

September is the best month to explore glorious glaciers at their bluest! The wonderful striking blue gives a magical finish to an already memorable experience.

On our  blue Ice glacier hiking and ice climbing tour , glacier hiking and ice climbing are combined to create a perfect bucket list experience.

Ice Climbing Tour at Sólheimajökull Glacier in Iceland

The glacier,  Sólheimajökull ,  is located only two hours from  Reykjavík . So, you can either do the tour with pick-up from Reykjavík or meet us there.

Golden Circle and Sightseeing Tours

A visit to  Thingvellir National Park in September is truly a magical trip as the fall colors there are the most vibrant. September is also a great time to beat the crowds if you’re looking for solitude. For a complete experience, our Golden Circle, South Coast and Snæfellsnes Peninsula tour starts in September. It combines incredible nature and adventures over 5-days.

Kerid crater lake on the Golden Circle road, Iceland

Many visitors opt for  Golden Circle  tour with an add-on activity or also a tour to  Snæfellsnes Peninsula .

Landmannalaugar Day Hike

September is the last time of the year to experience the geothermal wonderland in the highlands before the snow starts hiding its ravishing rhyolite color scheme.

On the   Landmannalaugar Day Hike , you will take a bus through amazing terrain and make your way past Hekla Volcano and other unique, natural wonders. Arrive at the moss and lava-covered lowlands before hiking up to the colorful mountains and surrounding volcanoes.

Hiking trails in Landmannalaugar, Iceland

You’ll then finish off your tour with a dip in the natural hot pool that rests in the foothills.

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"Into the Glacier" Ice Cave Tour

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Visit Iceland in September – A Comprehensive Travel Guide

The month of September is a period of climatic transition in Iceland. During this time, the autumn rolls in, and the colors of the Nordic country change. The hue of green changes into soft shades of red, yellow, and orange. It is the best month to travel to Iceland if you wish to skip the peak tourist crowds but still be able to see the northern lights. You can find easy accommodations, tours, and transportation at minimal rates. No matter how beautiful the Icelandic summers appear, Iceland autumn cannot be missed. The days become dark enough to experience the mystic Northern Lights . This write-up is a comprehensive guide that offers an array of options to explore in Iceland in September.

• Read about Iceland in each month of the year
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Weather Conditions in September

Temperature.

The month witnesses an average low temperature of 4 o C and the high temperature of 11 o C . The country witnesses quick weather changes hence there are chances that the temperature might dip to -4 o C and the temperature rise to as high as 20 o C. You get an opportunity to experience the best of both seasons. Thus, the weather is slightly cooler with some warmth of summer and still comfortable temperatures. It is, therefore, advised to plan the activities accordingly.

Daylight Hours

In early September, daylight usually ends for a little over 14 hours per day , offering you plenty of time to explore and enjoy the touristy sights. The sun rises at around six in the morning and sets at around ten in the evening. This allows you to witness the magical Northern Lights. By the end of the month, the daylight hours reduce to 11.5 hours. In fact, the closer you go to the Arctic circle, the daylight hours become even shorter.

• Daylight hours in Iceland

Precipitation

In this month the amount of rain depends on where you are. However, precipitation is not much different from August. The average precipitation in the month is around 76 mm. However, in Dalatangi can receive up to 160 mm and Akureyri gets an average of 39 mm. Although the rain is more than the other months it is not the wettest month of the year. Be prepared for rain wherever you go. Pack your waterproof jackets and rain boots.

Best Self Drive Activities in Iceland in September

• Katla Ice Cave
• Snorkel Silfra
• Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike
• Snowmobile on Langjökull glacier
• Víðgelmir lava cave
• Giljaböð hot spring hike
• Glacier Lagoon Kayaking

Pros of Visiting Iceland in September

September proves to be the best month to travel in Iceland. The weather is pleasant and you get to witness a beautiful transition from summer to winter. Most of the campsites remain accessible at the beginning of September. Driving in the month is as pleasant as driving in the summer. This month is perfect to watch autumn colors in Iceland. If you wish to enjoy the autumn colors in Iceland, plan a day trip to Thorsmork or Landmannlaugar in the highlands of Iceland. The first half of September is the perfect time to explore the highlands of Iceland. The Northern Lights have put on a great show in September for the last couple of years as well, so you can get a little bit of everything when visiting Iceland in September.

Cons of Visiting Iceland in September

The weather in Iceland is unpredictable in September. Therefore, there are chances that you will have to deal with windy and horizontal rains. It also means running into the risk of waterlogging and cold days. Since the daylight shortens, darkness returns to the Nordic country and limits the options to explore outdoor activities. One of the major setbacks could be the inability to go hiking through the highlands, and more.

The Northern Lights are probably the major reason that will prompt you to visit Iceland in September. They are produced because of the solar wind flowing through the particles from the sun’s surface. When these particles collide with gas molecules, energy gets released in the form of visible fluorescent light. Seeing the Northern lights in September is dependent on the lack of light through the night. In September the daylight hours start to decrease. Icelandic light pollution is far lower than the rest of the world. So, there are greater chances of witnessing the aurora borealis.

Hiking in Skaftafell

Iceland offers a whole lot of possibilities for hiking. If you want to start, it is usually recommended to go to Skaftafell National Park for hiking. The place is not far from the famous Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon . The national park has several hiking trails, most of which are not hard. You can even explore the glacier lagoon up close since September is the last month in which you can take a kayaking trip on the glacier lagoon for a dramatic and close view of the gigantic icebergs that float over the freezing water. 

• Iceland Travel Guide to Hiking in Skaftafell

Whale Watching

This is yet another great option to explore in Iceland in September. The tours are available in almost every coastal region of the Nordic country. The whales remain active throughout the autumn season and whale watching tours give you a great opportunity to see these giant mammals. 

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

Soak in a hot spring or a swimming pool

September is by far the best time to enjoy swimming in the pools and relaxing in the hot springs . The weather is still warm. You get a chance to sit in a warm pool while the brisk breeze touches your face-surely a relaxing experience! This also allows you to interact with the locals and make new friends.

Visit Cozy Cafés

September is the perfect month to experience the cozy café culture. The leader of this culture is Reykjavik. No shortage of cafes offers this warm and welcoming culture. When in the capital city, explore Reykjavik Roasters, Kaffibrennslan, Perlan, Kaffihus Vesturbaejar, and Aleppo. You can enjoy a cup of Joe and interact with the natives.

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Best Day Tours to Take in Iceland in September

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

Cultural Activities in September

This is one of the favorite past times for Icelanders – picking berries. It is an honored tradition where the families or individuals head out of the city to pick the wild, organic berries. There is stillness in the act and is relaxing. You get an opportunity to sit in nature in peace. All you hear is the muffled sound of berries dropping into your basket and raven cawing at a distance.

Some of the berries growing in the wild are crowberries. These are slightly bitter but have been used in Icelandic desserts and juices for ages. Some other types of berries found in the region are bilberries that are commonly paired with Icelandic Skyr and blueberries. These berries are then used to prepare jams, cakes, juices, and wine. They are added to a Vanilla Skyr or eaten as a snack.

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

Best (And Worst) Time To Visit Iceland (Month By Month!)

February 19, 2022 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

Deciding on the best time to visit Iceland for your needs is one of the most important parts of planning an Iceland trip. If you are unsure where to start, we have made it super easy for you by explaining what you can expect month by month.

This complete guide to the months and seasons of Iceland will fully prepare you for your trip. All of the most common questions are answered, such as when to see special things like the Northern Lights, lupine flowers, and puffins.

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 is amazing , but it is also a country that must be taken seriously. Winter in Iceland is beautiful, but you must plan accordingly if that is when you are planning to visit. However, even summer has its drawbacks.

Not to worry, we have all the information you need to check off all of your Iceland dreams. The best months to visit Iceland might depend a little bit on the season, but it depends the most on you!

Get a FREE printable “Hidden Gems In Iceland” E-book by joining our private  Iceland Facebook Group  and sharing your photos and asking for tips and tricks.

High and Low Seasons for Visiting Iceland

Like any popular tourist destination, Iceland has an “on” season and an “off” season. These times are otherwise referred to as high and low seasons (with the in-betweens being called shoulders).

The high season is when the majority of the tourists come to visit. This is generally due to the nice weather and ease of access. This is when most people plan their Iceland itinerary !

But just because the weather is colder in the low season does not mean you should not visit! Many people enjoy the low and shoulder seasons more because there are fewer crowds and it is cheaper, making it the best time to travel to Iceland for a lot of people.

You might be surprised to learn that there are indoor and outdoor activities for all of the seasons. Iceland is beautiful inside and out no matter when you visit.

High Season: June-August

Summer, summer, summer! This is the high season in Iceland for the obvious reasons: weather and temperature. It is undeniably the best weather to visit Iceland with much more sun and higher temperatures.

However, this is also by far the most expensive time to visit Iceland. Airfare, hotel fees, food prices–everything costs a pretty penny during the summer.

Not to mention the crowds. The high season is high season because it is when most people visit Iceland.

While the cost and the crowds are pretty big negatives, the high season has phenomenal positives as well. Especially if you are wanting to go to Iceland for the great outdoors. Most roads will be open during this time as well.

At the end of the day, it is all about your priorities. If weather and being able to spend the maximum time outside every day is your top priority, you are going to want to come to Iceland during the high season.

Shoulder Season: Sept-Oct & April-May

Shoulder seasons are the traveling industry’s best-kept secret. Okay, so it is not super-secret, but it still is not something people talk about as much as they should.

We hear about the high and low seasons all the time, but not so much about the shoulder seasons. They are the very beginning and the very ending of the classic tourism season.

This means that there are still more people than in the low season, but not the huge crowds of the high season. Prices are a little higher too, but still generally reasonable.

The best part of the shoulder season is that the weather is still reasonable. It may not be as great as the high season, but still totally tolerable!

Low Season: November-March

The low season in Iceland is during the typical winter months. For a country named after ice, Iceland’s winters are not that bad!

While there are some road closures, the country is still quite explorable and traversable during the cold months. And if you are coming to see the Northern Lights, this is the time to do it!

This is also the time to come if you are on a serious budget and need to take advantage of the low season prices. Traveling does not have to empty out your bank account.

The lack of crowds makes it the best season to visit Iceland on a budget! There are some trade-offs for coming during the off-season in Iceland, but there are some definite benefits too. This is actually our favorite time to go!

As we said above, the best time to visit Iceland depends on your Iceland priorities!

Visit Iceland in Summer if You:

-Love the idea of 24-hour sunshine.  Ah, the midnight sun–you are not alone if this is on your bucket list ! If you have dreamt of Iceland’s 24-hour daylight, the summer might be the best time for you to visit.

-Are enamored with the brilliant green of summer.  Iceland starts greening back up in the spring, but summer is the best time to visit Iceland if you want to see green everywhere.

The iconic lupine flowers bloom in June and July as well, creating swatches of purple across the landscape. If you want to photograph these flowers make sure to time your trip right.

-Want the best chance to spot whales. Whale watching is a popular tour in Iceland. The magnificent beasts can be spotted offshore from April through October, but the peak time to see them is in the summer.

In summer, more species are in the area and boat tours are less likely to get canceled because of weather.

-Plan on camping. Since the weather is calmer and less unpredictable during the summer, camping in Iceland is a better option for this season. You will have the least rainfall and less wind. This is especially good if you are tent camping.

-Are not bothered by crowds. Everyone loves the gorgeous, summer Iceland scenery. And we mean everyone . Iceland is a super crowded place in summer so keep that in mind.

If you hate crowds, you can still do alright coming in the summer. You will just want to visit the less popular places in the country. They may be less popular, but Iceland is amazing no matter where you go.

-Are totally invested in the traditional sense (read: financially).  If you are not concerned about how much your trip to Iceland is going to cost, that saves you a lot of seasonal concerns.

Iceland is stunning in the summer, and we cannot blame you for wanting to visit when everything is so vibrant.

Just keep in mind that it is already expensive to travel to Iceland, let alone during the summer. During the high season, top tourist destinations and locations charge top dollar for everything.

Visit Iceland in Winter if You:

-Want to spot the Northern Lights.  You can see the Northern Lights in the fall, but there is a caveat. You will have to stay up until around 2 am. If staying up all night is not your vibe, then winter is the best time to go to Iceland to see the Northern Lights!

In winter, there are not many daylight hours. The sun is only up from around 11 am to 3 pm. However, the increased darkness means a better chance of spotting the Northern Lights. Around midnight is the best time to spot them, but earlier or later is possible too.

-Want to visit an ice cave. The incredibly-formed ice caves are some of the best natural features in Iceland and can only be visited in the winter. Tours are lead from November to March.

-Love a good winter wonderland.  There is just something magical about the way snow completely changes Iceland’s landscape. Many people absolutely love coming to Iceland during this time of year because of this.

If you love the beauty of winter, then it is the best time to visit Iceland! Keep in mind that snow has drawbacks since some roads will be closed.

-Want to stand out from the crowd.  While a lot of people enjoy Iceland in the winter, the number of people who go is nothing compared to the summer.

If you are looking to do something a little different and unique, winter just might be the best time for your visit to Iceland. It certainly is not a bad time!

Visit Iceland in Fall if You:

-Do not like crowds but still want to see the Northern Lights.  Even though this is the off-season, it is prime viewing time for the Northern Lights.

This is because the weather is so nice! You do not have to freeze to see the Northern Lights, just come during the fall.

An extra bonus is that there are really not very many tourists during this time. Fall is the best time of the year to visit Iceland if you want to miss the crowds and do not mind coming when it is a little colder.

-Love fall colors. Iceland is not a country that is typically praised for its fall foliage, mostly because there are not many trees. However, what trees there are turn golden along with the grasses, to create a beautiful landscape.

-Want to experience the Iceland Airwaves music festival.  If you have not already heard about it then you might not know what a big deal the Iceland Airwaves music festival is. But if you have heard of it then you already know that it is a must-see!

It is a super popular music festival that happens each fall in Iceland. Usually, it is held sometime in November, but do an internet search to find the exact date.

If you love music, this festival is a great addition to your Iceland plans! Fall is the best time to go to Iceland to check it out!

Visit Iceland in Spring if You:

-Love puffins!   Spring is the best time to visit Iceland if you want to see puffins . These adorable birds start arriving around April for their yearly nesting.

Puffins are some of the cutest birds out there, and you can find them all over! If you are coming to catch sight of or photograph them, just check in advance to make sure they will be in the area where you are going.

-Want to road trip without snow.  As we said above, some of the roads can close in the winter. Spring is the best time to come to Iceland for better weather and open roads. That melting snow also helps to make the waterfalls flow stronger.

Not to mention that the world is coming back to life in the most beautiful way! There is something about the colorful bursts of color against the gray of winter that makes spring like no other season.

Best Time to See Northern Lights in Iceland

If you are interested in the Northern Lights, you are interested in Iceland! While there are many different places to see the Northern Lights in the world, Iceland is hard to beat.

Especially considering that there are places where you can watch them from a hot tub! The Northern Lights In Iceland are a huge draw, and if they are the reason you are coming you are not alone!

If you are wondering what is the best month to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, there are a few choices. It is possible to see the Northern Lights any month between the end of September and the end of March.

Just like the sun is out all night during summer, the nights are very long in the winter. The closer to mid-winter you visit, the longer the night and thus the higher chance of seeing the lights.

You definitely will not be able to see them during the summer! Winter is when you should book your Iceland trip if the Northern Lights are a priority.

Cheapest Time to Visit Iceland

Unfortunately, Iceland is one of the more expensive countries to visit. We have gone over and over because we believe the experience is worth the money .

However, there are things you can do to make your trip much less expensive. One of those things is visiting during the Iceland off-season.

If it is your goal to do Iceland without dumping a ton of cash, we absolutely recommend the shoulder seasons or winter. Visiting right before or right after the high season of summer can save you a lot of money.

If saving money is a high priority, winter is absolutely the best time to visit Iceland. And pro tip: use grocery stores to cut down on costs even more!

Iceland Weather Breakdown by Month

So far we have been referring to entire seasons, but we know that is kind of broad. Especially when you are planning the trip of a lifetime!

That is why we are going to break everything about Iceland Weather down month by month . This way you can know exactly what to expect.

After all, sometimes the best time to visit Iceland is simply when it best fits into your life. Whenever you make the trip, our month-by-month breakdown will help you make the most of it.

Iceland Weather in January

Happy New Year! January is a great time to visit Iceland. During this time of year you will find highs of about 36 ° F and lows of about 27 ° F.

Is that warmer than you expected? For a country named after ice, Iceland’s winters are actually quite moderate when compared with a lot of other places in the world!

That being said, January in Iceland is the coldest and windiest month. You will want to bring warm clothing and dress appropriately! Expect lots of snow and ice.

Iceland Weather in February

Honestly, the temperatures do not change much in February. What does change is the hours of daylight!

At the beginning of January, you will only get about 4 hours of daylight a day. By the end of February, this increases to about 10 hours.

February is a great month to come because there is more daylight but the crowds and costs are still at a minimum. Check out our post on things to know before you visit Iceland in February!

Iceland Weather in March

March continues with the increase in daylight hours, with about 13 hours of sunshine a day by the end of the month.

Winter weather continues in Iceland in March , although it starts sticking more to the mountaintops and less to the streets. As with most places, the weather is also better in southern Iceland than in northern Iceland.

However, it is still cold pretty much everywhere. We are getting closer to spring, but you would not really know it yet. The temperatures are still averaging between 27 ° F and 36 ° F.

Iceland Weather in April

The weather finally begins to make a bit of a change in April. Temperatures range between 32 ° F and 41 ° F during this warmer month.

What is more, there is a lot less snow! Spring starts to show its face about this time, with the country beginning to green back up again. Migratory birds start to return, including puffins.

We are also looking at around 17 hours of daylight in April as we officially move out of the low season and into the shoulder season. Don’t forget to check out this post about visiting Iceland in April!

Iceland Weather in May

May is seriously one of the best times to visit Iceland! Especially if you love the sun! The days have 20 hours or more of sunlight. It is also the driest month, with the least rainfall.

The highs are also much closer to 50 ° F, which means you almost do not even need a jacket depending on where you are from.

Of course, you will still want to bring your jackets . While the weather is much more temperate, there will still be some cold days. However, it is totally livable and the country is also becoming so much more green!

Iceland in May is also still shoulder season, which means you will not have to try so hard to find your own space while enjoying the sunshine.

Iceland Weather in June

Welcome to high season! While it is called the high season because it is most popular among tourists, June in Iceland is also the high season for the longest days.

If getting the most out of each day is important to you, then June is the best month to visit Iceland. You can explore for many more hours in daylight.

June nights only last for about 3 hours, beginning around 11:30 PM! Yeah, blackout curtains are a big thing in Iceland summers!

While the highs average around 52 ° F, they can get much higher than that. June is the beginning of summer, and also the beginning of real warmth.

Iceland Weather in July

Now, if you are interested in heat rather than warmth , July might be a better time to visit Iceland. It is the best time of year to visit Iceland for heat, as the hottest month of the year. It is also the least windy month.

The weather in Iceland in July is generally extremely pleasant during this time of the year. While the nights are a little longer, at about 4 hours long, they do not increase by much!

Keep in mind that “hot” does not mean the same thing in Iceland as it does in other places. The average highs are around 56°F. That is part of why it is one of the most popular times to visit because it does not get any warmer than this.

Iceland Weather in August

August is the last month of the high season. While the beginning of the month is still as warm as July, temperatures start to go down by the end of the month.

August is the best time to go to Iceland if you do not mind the crowds due to the fairly standard daylight hours. The sun sets around 9 PM and rises around 5 AM. August has the least cloudy days as well.

Do keep in mind that August in Iceland goes quickly from summer to fall. By the end of the month, the slight bite to the air will have you wishing for warm pumpkin pie and spiced apple cider.

Iceland Weather in September

September still has great sunshine for Iceland, but it does go down to just below 12 hours by the end of the month. It is the warmest month with a chance to see the Northern Lights.

Temperatures are still quite nice, and we are back in shoulder season. This means that you can enjoy the nice weather and decent daylight hours without all the crowds of summer.

By the end of the month the likelihood of snow increases. If you visit Iceland in September , you will want to pack your warm clothing!

Iceland Weather in October

October in Iceland is still technically part of the shoulder season, but it is starting to feel much more like the low season of winter. Daylight is down to about 8 hours a day.

In addition, the average temperature is dropping back down to about 41 ° F. While it is not absolute winter yet, the weather should be taken into consideration at this point.

Bring warm clothes and waterproof ponchos. October is the wettest month in Iceland with an average of 14 days with precipitation.

Although it is colder, October is the best time to visit Iceland if you want to explore with as few crowds as possible. The roads are still open and you can still go pretty much everywhere you want.

Iceland Weather in November

Welcome to winter and the off-season in Iceland. November begins the coldest time of the year, although December and January are colder. This is when the snow starts to fully cover the island.

The average temperature is 38 ° F, but it can get much colder. Daylight only lasts about six hours.

We love to visit Iceland in the low season, and really do think it is one of the best times to visit Iceland. You just have to be prepared for the lower temperatures and the weather.

Iceland Weather in December

The last month of the year is one of the coldest months, second only to January. Temperature highs only reach about 39 ° F. It gets as cold as 21 ° F.

In addition, Iceland in December sees quite a lot of precipitation and snow. Daylight hours are generally pretty short.

However, this does make it and January the best time to visit Iceland for the Northern Lights! However, it is also the cloudiest month, meaning the lights can get obstructed.

Iceland Events and Activities by Month

While the weather is a big deal, sometimes it is not as important as what you can do. After all, most weather is survivable if you plan and dress accordingly.

If you are more curious about what is going on than what temperature it will be, we have you covered! We have broken down the events and activities you can do during each month of the year.

You might be surprised by some of your options, especially during the winter!

Iceland in January

Can you even go wrong with New Year’s Eve when you are celebrating in a different country? Especially Iceland!

The country takes this holiday seriously with partying on New Year’s Eve, sleeping on the first, and shopping on the second.

And then there is Christmas–that is right, Christmas extends into January in Iceland, with the last day being on the 6th. If Christmas is your favorite holiday, then the end of December and the beginning of January is definitely the best time to visit Iceland.

Another great January tradition in Iceland is Thorrablot . This pagan celebration was canceled when Iceland went Christian but has had a resurgence in the last couple of centuries.

It is a week-long celebration of an Icelandic tradition that will not disappoint. If you want to feel like a local, prepare yourself for some things you have never eaten before, like rotten shark meat, boiled sheep’s head, and congealed sheep’s blood.

Iceland in February

February is beloved for the Winter Lights Festival . As a celebration of bright and happy things, you will love the way they light the streets with brilliant fluorescence to chase the darkness of winter away.

Öskudagur is basically Icelandic Halloween. The kids dress up in great costumes, and instead of the “trick or treat” chant, sing for their candy.

The Icelandic Food and Fun Festival is a fantastic festival that celebrates Icelandic cooking. And not even the kind that uses blood and rotten shark meat! It is all about using ingredients native to Iceland and enjoying all the culinary joys the country has to offer.

Iceland in March

Did you know that Iceland had its own prohibition period? Beer with an alcohol level of over 2.2% was banned for the majority of the 1900s but legalized again in 1990.

Iceland celebrates this legalization with the unofficial holiday, Beer Day, on the first of March every year! We think you can probably guess what the main activities are. (Drinking beer.)

DesignMarch is similar to the Food and Fun Festival in that it is a celebration of Icelandic creativity. The event features purely Icelandic products and goods.

Continuing in a similar fashion, the Reykjavik Folk Festival honors centuries of traditional music and song.

Iceland in April

Iceland celebrates Easter for days just like Christmas. Honestly, we do not know why more countries do not do holidays like this! Celebrating with just one day is so minimal!

Easter lasts from Holy Thursday to Easter Monday in Iceland. It is generally spent with family, rather than with huge parties.

April’s other holiday is the first day of summer. Given the dark of winter and the light of summer, and the very small in-betweens, Iceland actually does not traditionally recognize spring and autumn as seasons. So summer starts in April!

Iceland in May

The Reykjavik Art Festival is a big deal in May! People come from all over the world to participate in and experience creativity and fun.

If art is not your thing, May still might be the best time to visit Iceland with the Rite of Spring Festival. We know, we know, we just told you there is no spring in Iceland.

But when Iceland gave up its traditional calendar, they adopted spring and autumn into their new calendar. And they like to welcome spring with heartfelt jazz and folk music!

Iceland in June

It should come as no surprise that a country that willingly eats rotten shark meat celebrates the sea! Iceland’s Festival of the Sea happens in June, and it honors the country’s long tradition of seafaring.

Iceland also celebrates its independence from Denmark every June 17th. Like the 4th of July in the United States, Iceland National Day is a country-wide affair filled with parades, concerts, and general enjoyment of Icelandic culture.

Summer Solstice takes advantage of the Midnight Sun with all-night rock concerts. You can also join the locals in watching the sun set and rise all within the course of 2-3 hours.

Another unique Iceland festival is the International Viking Festival . It is a days-long holiday event that pays tribute to Iceland’s fierce Viking history.

Iceland in July

Innipukinn Festival is another music festival that happens in July. If you are not already getting the sense that you can hit up a music festival basically anytime you visit Iceland, well, you can. Icelandic people really love their music, okay?

They mix things up a bit with LungA , a festival specific to the Icelandic town of Seyðisfjörður . This festival still has music (as any good festival does) as well as art!

Iceland in August

Verslunarmannahelgi–say that five times fast, we dare you! Honestly, if you can pronounce it once we will be impressed. Verslunarmannahelgi happens the first weekend of August and is a quick bank holiday (kind of like Labor Day in the US). People generally celebrate by going camping.

Gay Pride comes the second weekend of August, and nowhere celebrates it as Reykjavik does! With parades, parties, and concerts, this is truly a vibrant and fantastic event.

If you like running, (like, really like) then the third weekend of August is the best time to visit Iceland! This is when the Reykjavik Marathon occurs, and it is another event that attracts people from all over the world!

The marathon wraps up with Menningarnott , a fantastic cultural celebration with cultural events, fireworks, and you guessed it, great music!

Iceland in September

The capital city of Reykjavik has two festivals in September, making it the best time to visit Reykjavik if you are wanting to have some fun during the shoulder season.

First is the Reykjavik International Literary Festival . This one is not just a big deal to Iceland, it is actually the biggest literary festival in Northern Europe!

Next is the Reykjavik International Film Festival . There is just something about literature and film that make them go hand in hand. Both of these festivals draw people from all over the world, but especially the film festival!

Iceland in October

Iceland Airwaves is another music festival but centers on indie and alternative music rather than the traditional folk and rock music of so many other festivals. Of course, folk and rock music still abound!

Iceland also celebrates Halloween in October, although they have not been celebrating it as long as other countries and do it a little differently. It is more of an adult holiday, but still features costumes!

Iceland in November

November does not have a whole lot going on in the realm of festivals and events. What it does have, though, it makes sure to do well.

Frostbiter is Iceland’s Horror Film Festival. So while Iceland does not have much going on in November, it is still the best time to visit Iceland if you love horror!

Iceland in December

Sorry not sorry, but Iceland has the best Christmas lights. Seriously, you have to check them out! Because the country is so dark all the time in December, they go all out with the Christmas lights.

And the way they make such a contrast against the dark? Unbeatable.

Everything about Iceland Christmas is simply unbeatable. From the concerts to the food to the country’s own unique and fun traditions, you will absolutely love it.

New Year’s Eve is filled with fireworks, bonfires, and singing. There are even costumes!

And they do not wrap things up and go to bed at midnight. Iceland New Year partying lasts long into the early hours of the next day.

December is the best time of year to travel to Iceland if you love all the December holidays!

When is the Worst Time to Visit Iceland?

Honestly, there is really no bad time of year to visit Iceland as long as you plan accordingly. After reading this article, you should have a good idea of what each month has to offer in terms of weather, natural events, and festivals.

As long as you visit when you want to and pack according to the season , you will be in Iceland at the right time.

If you want to see the Northern Lights, summer is the worst time to visit Iceland. But, if you want clear roads for your rental car and warm weather, then winter is the worst time to visit.

So, When is the Best Time to Visit Iceland?

At the end of the day, the best time to visit Iceland is 100% up to you! Whatever your interests are and your budget will determine when you should visit this amazing country.

After all, this is your trip to Iceland. Plan it around what you want to see and do.

Do you want the midnight sun and purple, lupine flowers? Come during summer. Hate crowds and overpaying, but want decent weather? Give shoulder season a try. Does your Iceland bucket list involve the Nothern Lights or ice caves? Winter is your best bet!

Iceland is gorgeous year-round, and you really cannot go wrong no matter when you visit!

We hope our guide to the best time to visit Iceland has been helpful! Feel free to let us know when you decide to go in the comments below. What is your favorite time to travel to Iceland?

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• Visit Iceland in September

Are you planning to travel to Iceland in September? Your Friend in Reykjavik is excited to welcome you to the Land of Fire and Ice! 

September is a beautiful time to visit Iceland, and we’ll make sure your trip gets off on the right foot! 

Joining a walking tour in Reykjavik with one of our local guides is a great way to find your bearings in our capital city, not to mention the perfect introduction to our culture and history.

Scroll down to find out more about why you should visit Iceland in September. And if you have any questions for us in the meantime, please get in touch .

Sample Some September Festivals in Iceland 

You can find a wide range of festivals in Iceland in September. Around the first weekend of the month, usually, you can head down Reykjanes Peninsula to Reykjanesbær for the Night of Lights . 

The “night” is a fantastic fireworks display, but there are days (and other nights) of music, arts, and family fun. This is a brilliant way to experience the culture of Iceland in early September.

Movie buffs can enjoy the glitz and glamor of independent films at the Reykjavik Film Festival , usually scheduled from the end of September to the beginning of October. 

If you’re up for some college-level partying and live music, check out Októberfest at the University of Iceland. 

If music festivals are your thing and you’re not 100% set on a September visit, check out our previous blog about the best music festivals in Iceland .

Can You See the Northern Lights in Iceland in September?

Yes! Your chances of catching the aurora are especially high during the autumn equinox, which occurs around 21 to 24 September every year. 

Unsurprisingly, this is one of the most popular experiences in Iceland in late September.

You may think you would get a better light show during the long winter nights, but it’s all about the earth’s tilt. 

Without getting too sciencey — during an equinox, the earth is at an ideal angle for catching the solar winds that create the spectacular aurora borealis. 

Even if you don’t make it for the actual night, you can still see some fantastic light shows!

Do you want to learn more about the Northern Lights? 

You can always check out the Aurora Reykjavík – Northern Lights Center and the Northern Lights Planetarium Show in Perlan . 

For an extra memorable experience, you can book a night in a bubble! The Bubble Hotel in Iceland allows you to sleep in nature and see the Northern Lights!

Discover more about seeing the Northern Lights in Reykjavik in 2023 .

Best Things to Do and Best Places to Visit in Iceland in September

September offers some truly unique experiences when visiting Iceland. 

It is your last chance of the year to see the Landmannalaugar Nature Reserve in Iceland’s highlands. 

The reserve typically closes in the middle of the month. If you’re a nature lover, be sure to plan a trip to Iceland in early September.

You can expect to take incredible photos of colorful reds, blues, yellows, and greens from the minerals in the geothermal pools.

Migratory whales leave Iceland’s waters around October, so consider joining a whale-watching tour in Reykjavik or other whale hot spots and make the most of peak viewing opportunities.

David Sancho 大衛, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

If you want to get more interactive with nature, join in on Réttir, the annual round-up of Icelandic sheep , and discover how important our fleecy four-legged friends are. 

Read our guide to Haustmánuður – the sheep round-up month to learn more!

You can also pick wild blueberries as they reach their peak ripeness. Enjoy them with some Skyr at breakfast!

September is also an excellent time to pick caraway seeds that grow wild all around Iceland. A great place to pick it in Reykjavík is Viðey Island. 

The island was settled in the 10th century and a monastery was built there in the early 13th century. This was in operation until the Reformation in the 16th century. 

Later, in the middle of the 18th century, it became the home of the first Icelandic treasurer. His name was Skúli Magnússon, and he’s often called the father of Reykjavík. 

He made many agricultural trials, one of which was to grow caraway. Viðey is also the home of the Imagine Peace Tower by Yoko Ono and Milestones by sculptor Richard Serra.

Sadly, you will not be able to see the Imagine Peace Tower lit while on your travels in Iceland in September. It is only illuminated between 9 October and 8 December (John Lennon’s birthday and day of death) and a few other days.

Generally speaking, the winter weather sets in from October onwards. These harsh conditions result in road closures, especially on higher ground.

So September is a great opportunity to hit the road and explore the incredible natural wonders before you have to wait for spring to roll around again.

Consider visiting the Westfjords of Iceland , East Iceland , and the open natural expanses of North Iceland .

Best Things to Do in Reykjavik in September

If you find yourself in Reykjavik in September, you’ll have no end of things to do. The weather is still great for taking a dip at Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach or one of the many public pools in Reykjavik . 

They are all heated with geothermal water and also have steam baths and saunas if it’s a bit too chilly for you. 

Not up for getting soaked? Have a wander around some of Reykjavik’s museums , or sit and watch the world go by in one of the best coffee shops in Reykjavik .

Or if you fancy something stronger, head into one of the best bars in Reykjavik — there are plenty to choose from!

Want some helpful tips on where to go and what to do? A Reykjavik walking tour with us is always a good start! 

We recommend buying the Reykjavik City Cards for your museum visits and other discounts. It is possible to choose between one-day , two-day , and three-day passes.

What to Eat During Your Visit to Reykjavik in September?

We want you to enjoy all our Icelandic foods whatever month you visit us! But as the weather turns a little colder, maybe you’ll enjoy the comfort of our hearty lamb stew, Kjötsúpa . 

Or grab a Pylsa (Icelandic hot dog) to enjoy on the go as you explore the city. 

And you can always satisfy your sweet tooth with a Bragðarefur, ice cream with your favorite candy mixed in. 

Join our Reykjavik Food Tour and we’ll show you all the terrific flavors Iceland has to offer.

Hiking in Iceland in September

As touched on above, September is possibly the last month of the year to enjoy open access to most hiking routes in Iceland. So if you want to get out in the great outdoors, don’t leave it any later!

The hiking opportunities are as varied as they are incredible. Just some of the options include:

• Hiking Vatnajökull’s outlet glaciers
• Hiking on Solheimajokull
• Hiking in Þingvellir National Park
• Hiking in Heiðmörk Nature Reserve 
• Hiking in Landmannalaugar Nature Reserve

Weather in Iceland in September

We are still holding onto summer in September, and the weather sometimes helps out. 

The average temperature is usually around 8°C (46°F) but sometimes can get as high as 14°C (57°F). 

There may be some rain, nothing too stormy, but it’s always good to come prepared when packing! 

As we head into autumn, the days are getting shorter, but we still average around 12 hours of daylight, with more at the beginning of the month and less towards the end. 

And with autumn, we start seeing the leaves change color as they prepare for winter.

Þingvellir National Park is a local favorite for seeing the changing of the leaves. The tectonic plates, ravines, and Þingvellir Lake are a sight to see. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage site . 

Christine Zenino, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Learn More About When to Visit Iceland:

• Visit Iceland in January
• Visit Iceland in February
• Visit Iceland in March
• Visit Iceland in April
• Visit Iceland in May
• Visit Iceland in June
• Visit Iceland in July
• Visit Iceland in August
• Visit Iceland in October
• Visit Iceland in November
• Visit Iceland in December

What to Pack to Visit Iceland in September

Even if you aren’t planning on hiking and camping, you still want to pack warm clothes for your trip to Iceland. 

An all-weather jacket is always a good idea, as well as a hat, scarf, and gloves. If you are going hiking, we highly recommend waterproof pants and footwear. 

And don’t forget your bathing suit for a geothermal dip and, of course, your camera to record the fantastic time you’ll have!

Travel to Iceland in September and Let Your Friend in Reykjavik Show You Around

Now that you’ve decided to visit Iceland in September, what is the next step? Well, get in touch with Your Friend in Reykjavik! 

Our Reykjavik Walking Tours are a fantastic introduction to Iceland, and all our guides love sharing their tips and insights on how to enjoy your visit. 

We can even organize a private walking tour in Reykjavik for a more personalized experience.

• Food & Drink in Iceland 72
• History & Traditions of Iceland 146
• Holidays in Iceland 32
• Shopping in Iceland 15
• Things to do in Reykjavik 92
• Traveling in Iceland 106

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September Guide to Iceland - Discover the Best Things To Do in Iceland in September

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Posted Jul 03, 2023 in Things to do

Posted Jul 03, 2023

Are you dreaming of a trip to Iceland this September? If so, you're in luck! September is the perfect time for exploring this beautiful country with its mild days and cool nights. From Reykjavik to the northern lights, there are plenty of amazing things to do in Iceland in September . You're bound to have an unforgettable visit.

Whether you're into glacier treks or exploring stunning waterfalls, our ultimate guide has you covered. Discover where to stay, which attractions not to miss, and the best things to do in Iceland this month. So let's get started planning your Icelandic adventure!

Why Spend September in Iceland?

September in Iceland has its advantages and disadvantages, just like most things in life. Whether it is suitable for you depends on your needs and preferences. Consider the following pros and cons to understand why September in Iceland can be a good option.

• Mild temperatures : September in Iceland experiences relatively mild weather, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities compared to colder months.
• Autumn colors : The landscapes in Iceland transform into beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow, offering stunning scenery for photography and hiking.
• Fewer crowds : September marks the shoulder season, meaning fewer tourists than in the peak summer months, allowing for a more tranquil experience at popular attractions.
• Northern Lights : September offers an excellent chance to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights as the nights grow darker.
• Lower prices : Accommodation, flights, and tours are more affordable in September compared to the peak summer season.

• Variable weather : While the temperatures are milder, Iceland's weather can still be unpredictable, with frequent daily changes. It's essential to pack and dress accordingly.
• Shorter days : September sees shorter daylight hours compared to the summer months, which can affect the time available for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
• Limited accessibility : Some remote areas and highland roads may start closing in September due to changing weather conditions, limiting access to certain attractions.
• Decreased wildlife activity : Wildlife sightings, such as puffins or seals, are more prevalent during the summer, so the chances of spotting them might decrease in September.
• Potential rain and wind : Iceland is known for its windy and rainy weather, and while September is relatively mild, it can still bring rainfall and gusty winds, affecting outdoor plans.

What Is the Weather Like in Iceland in September?

The weather in Iceland during September can be mild, with temperatures ranging from 6°C (43°F) to 11°C (51°F) on average . Although temperatures generally remain consistent throughout the month, it's important to note that Iceland is known for its unpredictable weather, with frequent changes to wind speed, rain, and snow. So dress in layers and pack waterproof clothing just in case!

10 Things To Do in Iceland in September

If you're looking for things to do in Iceland in September, you're in for a treat! From lava fields to the mesmerizing northern lights, there is something for everyone in this beautiful country. Here is a list of the top things to do in Iceland in September that you won't want to miss:

1. Explore Reykjavik

Discover the vibrant charm of Reykjavik in September. This lively capital city of Iceland offers an array of exciting activities and attractions. Here are some fantastic things to do in Reykjavik in September:

• Reykjavik Food Tour : One of the best things to do in Reykjavik in September is to take a food tour and sample some of the best Icelandic dishes.
• Hallgrímskirkja : Marvel at the architectural masterpiece and enjoy breathtaking views of Reykjavik from its observation deck.
• Harpa Concert Hall : Experience world-class performances and immerse yourself in the city's thriving arts scene.
• The Sun Voyager : Stroll along the waterfront and admire this iconic sculpture inspired by Viking ships.
• Reykjavik Art Museum : Explore contemporary and modern Icelandic art in a unique setting.

2. Witness the Aurora Borealis

A must-do in Iceland in September is to witness the incredible northern lights . From late August and early September, these lights start to appear on clear nights, offering a mesmerizing display of colors across the sky. Make sure to check out some of these top places in Iceland for seeing the northern lights in September:

• Kirkjufell Mountain : This iconic mountain is said to be one of the best places to spot the northern lights in Iceland.
• Lake Mývatn : This peaceful lake and its surroundings provide an excellent spot for viewing the northern lights.
• Vík í Mýrdal : The dramatic coastline of this small fishing village creates a beautiful backdrop for the northern lights.

3. Go Glacier Hiking

Glacier hiking is, without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Iceland in September. Explore the stunning landscapes of glaciers and snow-capped mountains with a professional guide for a truly unique experience ! Here are some of the top glacier hiking tours available in Iceland during September:

• Solheimajokull 3-Hours Glacier Hike: An exciting 3-hour glacier hike with a certified guide in the Sólheimajökull area near Vik.
• Skaftafell Ice Climbing & Glacier Hike: An adrenaline-filled tour with a professional guide to explore one of the most stunning glaciers in Iceland.
• Vatnajökull Glacier Walk: An unforgettable glacier adventure in Southeast Iceland with a certified guide.

4. Take a Whale Watching Tour

Iceland is home to 24 species of whales and dolphins , making it one of the best destinations for a whale-watching tour. A whale-watching tour is a must-do in Iceland in September! Here are some of the most popular whale-watching tours available in Iceland during September:

• Reykjavík Classic Whale Watching: This 3-hour tour will take you on a whale-watching adventure in Faxaflói Bay with expert crew and naturalist guides.
• Akureyri Classic Whale Watching: Discover the Eyjafjord Humpbacks in their natural habitat. This tour includes expert whale-watching guides and a high-speed, modified whale-watching ship.
• RIB Express: Join this boat for an amazing 2-hour RIB Express tour. Enjoy a fast and thrilling ride with a comfortable cruising speed of 32 knots. Enjoy ample time in the whales' feeding grounds for an unforgettable experience.

5. Visit National Parks

Visiting Iceland's National Parks should be at the top of your list of things to do in Iceland in September. From tranquil lakes to vast glaciers, these parks offer spectacular landscapes and an excellent opportunity for exploration. Here are the 3 parks you don't want to miss out on:

• Snæfellsjökull National Park : Explore the lava fields and majestic glaciers of this stunning park located in the western part of Iceland.
• Vatnajökull National Park : This park acts as a gateway to explore the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajökull.
• Þingvellir National Park : Visit the home of the world's oldest functioning parliament and witness its picturesque ravines, lakes, and geysers.

6. Drive Scenic Routes

Planning a road trip during your visit to Iceland is a must and possibly one of the best things to do in Iceland in September. Certain roads that are closed during winter due to hazardous conditions can be driven in September, and you can even save on accommodation costs by opting for a campervan. Some of the most famous road trip routes in Iceland include:

• The Ring Road : This 1,322 km/821-mile route around the island is stunning and diverse. It takes you from the vibrant city of Reykjavik to the remote corners of the island.
• The Westfjords Way : Take the road less traveled and explore one of the most remote parts of Iceland. This route takes you through some fantastic landscapes and quaint villages, allowing you to get off the beaten track and experience something unique.
• The Golden Circle: This is a 240 km/140-mile route that takes you through some of the most iconic landscapes in Iceland, including Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park.
• The Silver Circle : Similar to the Golden Circle, this route takes you through some of the lesser-known attractions in Iceland's interior and is a great way to discover hidden gems.

Not all roads are accessible with a regular vehicle; some routes may require a 4x4 vehicle . Make sure to inquire with the rental agency about the vehicle requirements for specific routes.

7. Check Out Waterfalls

Iceland has over 10,000 waterfalls , and it is a must-do in Iceland in September. Pack some waterproof clothes to prepare for muddy hiking paths and waterfall spray. These are some of our top picks:

• Gullfoss : One of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls, Gullfoss captivates visitors with its two-tiered drop into a dramatic canyon. Its sheer power and beauty are truly awe-inspiring.
• Godafoss : Known as the 'Waterfall of the Gods,' Godafoss mesmerizes with its horseshoe shape and cascading turquoise waters. It's a sight that will leave you spellbound.
• Dettifoss : As Europe's most powerful waterfall , Dettifoss is an absolute spectacle. Feel the ground tremble beneath you as you witness the sheer force of water plummeting into the canyon.
• Seljalandsfoss : This unique waterfall offers a memorable experience. You can also walk behind the cascading water curtain, providing a different perspective and excellent photo opportunities.

8. Unwind in Iceland's Geothermal Hot Springs

Iceland has numerous natural hot springs due to volcanic activity that heats the underground water supply. Some of these hot springs have remained untouched in their natural state. In contrast, others have been developed for commercial or public use, especially those too hot for human use. While many hot springs are free, some may charge an entry fee, especially those that provide additional spa services. Some of the most popular hot springs to visit include:

• The Blue Lagoon : One of the most famous pools in Iceland, the Blue Lagoon offers various treatments and is a great spot to relax.
• Secret Lagoon : The perfect place for a family outing, the Secret Lagoon offers mineral-rich waters and beautiful surroundings.
• Sky Lagoon : Considered one of the best things to do in Reykjavik in September, Sky Lagoon allows you to relax in the geothermal waters of Reykjavík's harbor.
• Reykjadalur Hot Spring : An adventure awaits in the Reykjadalur Valley as you hike through the mossy hills and soak in a natural hot spring.

9. Uncover Iceland's Best Black Sand Beaches

In September, when the weather in Iceland is still pleasant, it is highly recommended to visit one of the black sand beaches found throughout the island. This is a distinctive feature of Iceland, created by combining the country's volcanoes and glaciers. Check out these famous black sand beaches to experience this unique phenomenon.

• Reynisfjara Beach . Boasting an impressive view of the Reynisdrangar sea stacks and basalt columns, this beach is a unique sight for the eyes and a must-visit destination for beachgoers.
• Vík í Mýrdal Beach . This beach is home to lagoons, caves, and spectacular basalt columns. Take the time to explore its many wonders as you soak in the sun.
• Diamond Beach . Located near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach is known for its glistening chunks of ice on its shores.

10. Unleash Your Inner Viking

Going Viking is a must-do in Iceland in September, and Iceland is at the top of the list for a Viking-themed holiday. Iceland has a rich Viking heritage and is home to some of the best Viking sites in the world, such as:

• Viking World Museum: Learn all about the life and times of the Vikings at this interactive museum. Uncover the fascinating artifacts from Norse mythology and explore their culture more deeply.
• Saga Museum : Immerse yourself in the Viking age with this museum's lifelike figures and stories of their daily lives.
• Borgarnes Viking Museum: This well-preserved Viking settlement provides a unique insight into the life of the Vikings and their world.

Where to Stay in Iceland in September?

Camping is one of the top things to do in Iceland in September, as it allows you to explore the outdoors and embrace Iceland's unique nature up close . For those who prefer a more comfortable stay, there are also many hotels, guesthouses, and hostels to choose from. Here are some of the best campgrounds and accommodations in Iceland:

Camping offers a budget-friendly accommodation option and is a great way to explore Iceland's nature up close. Consider purchasing a Camping Card for €159, providing access to multiple campsites for up to 28 days.

The card covers a family of 2 adults and up to 4 children, making it an excellent cost-saving option for family travel. Most campsites charge at least €10 per person per night, so the Camping Card offers significant savings. Here are some of the best campsites in Iceland:

• Reykjavík Campsite: This campsite is located in the heart of Reykjavík and provides a range of amenities, including showers, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, and a restaurant.
• Skogar Campsite: With its stunning views of the Skogafoss waterfall, this campsite is the perfect place to settle in for a night and explore one of Iceland's most iconic natural wonders.
• Skaftafell: Located within Vatnajökull National Park, this campsite offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

Accommodations

For those who prefer a more comfortable stay, there is an array of accommodations available in Iceland. From luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses, there is something for every budget and preference . Here are some of the best places to stay during your Icelandic getaway:

• Afternoon Cottages : These cottages offer a comfortable and cozy stay in the heart of southern Iceland. Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape and convenient access to major attractions.
• Bus Hostel Reykjavik : This hostel is popular among budget travelers and provides a comfortable stay with modern amenities, including a shared kitchen, bar, laundry facilities, and Wi-Fi.

Helpful Tips When Spending September in Iceland

As with any destination, there are a few tips and tricks to remember when visiting Iceland in September.

Double-Check Operating Hours

September marks the end of the summer season. This means that many attractions and venues will be operating during winter hours. To avoid disappointment, be sure to double-check if a place is still open before heading out.

Always Check Road Conditions

Iceland's roads can be unpredictable, so it is always important to check the road conditions before embarking on a journey. Make sure to research any routes you plan to take and avoid driving during bad weather.

Wear Layers Irrespective of the Weather

It is important to pack clothes that you can layer. Even if the forecast calls for sunny and warm weather, it is always wise to bring an extra jacket and pair of shoes, just in case.

Packing List for Iceland in September

When traveling to Iceland in September, there are a few items that you should always remember to add to your packing list :

• Comfortable shoes : Shoes suitable for walking and exploring the outdoors are essential for any Icelandic getaway.
• Rain gear : Bring a rain jacket and waterproof trousers to stay dry in case of unexpected rain.
• Layers: Temperatures can drop quickly in Iceland, so it is essential to wear multiple layers.
• Swimwear : Make sure you bring a swimsuit. Iceland is home to some of the best natural hot springs in the world!
• Sunscreen : The sun can be intense, even in September, so don't forget to pack sunscreen and sunglasses.

Taking Advantage of Summer Activities in Fall

September in Iceland offers an array of activities and attractions for all ages. From exploring the stunning black sand beaches to uncovering its Viking heritage, there is something for everyone's taste.

With this helpful guide and tips on things to do in Iceland in September, you can now plan your trip with confidence. Whether exploring nature, enjoying outdoor activities, or learning about Icelandic culture and history, September is a great time to visit Iceland.

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Planning a Trip to Iceland in September + Iceland Tips & Costs

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There are many words that can be used to describe Iceland.

But cheap with a mild climate are not at all in Iceland’s vocabulary.

The prices can be just as shocking as the weather if not more but at least the magical landscapes that you will be surrounded with on the daily will make you forget about your dwindling bank account, at least for a moment.

After exploring the country for 12 days, I’ve gathered essentially everything you need right here to make sure you’re totally informed for planning a trip to Iceland with the best tips, costs to expect, and knowing what Iceland in September is like.

➡️ Check here for your Iceland campervan rental !

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Are there any other benefits of visiting iceland in september, transportation in iceland tips, what did we eat in iceland, random things you might not think to get…, alcohol in iceland, auroras in iceland tips & what you don’t need to see them, best map app to visiting iceland, travel gear for iceland in september, cash or credit, 17 reykjavik, iceland day tours that are totally worth it, iceland packing list: what to wear and what to bring no matter the season, driving in iceland: tips, finding a cheap campervan, and campsites, iceland itinerary: 7 days west coast best coast road trip, iceland in september – the best time to visit iceland.

OK, so I’m saying the best but the only person who can really the say the best is you. It depends on what you want.

If you need endless summer and are scared of ice, obviously, summer would be your best bet. But you can say goodbye to any darkness (check, midnight sun ) and there’s literally zero chance of seeing the auroras.

So I recommend a happy medium—visit Iceland in September

I’m not too into freezing cold places, blizzards, and snow up to my eyeballs so I think fall is a fab time to visit Iceland. I decided the end of September was the perfect time to enjoy Iceland and guess what? I was so right!

It would be a nearly impossible task to find another place on this planet that has weather as crazy as Iceland.

One minute the sun is shining, the next, an intense pouring rain is drenching you. Some days, we could literally time the storms as they came through like clockwork. It was about every 5 minutes!

We had exactly one day where it was pretty hot, for Iceland. I wore my leggings and a t-shirt and while on a walk to  Solheimasandur  (the famous plane crash) I was actually wishing I was wearing shorts or at least not fleece lined leggings.

The very next day? There was intense winds and our friends in a large RV were stuck around Glacier Lagoon because it was too dangerous to drive. We nearly went there the day before, luckily we didn’t.

So is Iceland in September the best time to go?

Well, I can’t say it’s the best for you, but it was the best for us!

Sure we had a few gloomy days, but uhm, hello, this is Iceland. It’s kind of a common thing!

Regardless, I think the weather was pretty decent overall! There was no snow which mean driving condition were safer and temperatures were at a steady, “Nina can still deal with this,” level. (My Florida blood thanked me for not coming in winter).

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Yes! When you read about the pricing below, you’ll see why.

Iceland is damn expensive, no matter when you visit. So the fact that fall is a time where prices start to drop, yeah, I think the best time to visit Iceland is in September.

The prices will be more like a knife wound rather than a hacksaw to your bank account.

Another wonderful reason why Iceland is great in fall is all the fall colors come out to play (yay!). No matter where you are in the world, this is essentially one of the most beautiful things to witness.

And now the best part as to why Iceland in September is a good idea…

Wait for it…

There aren’t 72502740579024 people there sharing the moment with you! Iceland is a hot spot, fall time is a universal cue for people who want only summer days and a perpetually sunny vacation (aka most tourists) to go home. Which is good news for the rest of us.

Goodbye, hoards of tourists! Hello, easily manageable amount of people to share my space with.

So what do you think? Is planning a trip to Iceland in September a good idea for you? Check out this 7-day itinerary with all the epic places you can experience!

NEVER take taxis. Like… ever. They are ridiculously expensive and our 35km taxi ride cost $125 USD…

Not a typo. I was having a heart attack in the backseat.

Yeah… Anyway,  Flybus is $30pp if they take you to your hotel and $25pp if they drop you at Reykjavik bus terminal.

The problem for us though was that we were going to neither and didn’t have TOO much of choice but to taxi or just add on fee for the camper van to pick us up which would have been better.

You could take the FlyBus if you want to walk to the campervan company I went through for about 15 minutes, with all your stuff…

Garrett checked an Iceland taxi calculator online and it was obviously flawed as it quoted much less.

After dealing with getting out of the airport…

The best way to get around, hands down, is by campervan . Road-tripping Iceland is nothing short of epic.

I loved having the freedom to go anywhere anytime I wanted and when it was time to sleep, just find a campsite and post up! There’s no need to find hotels along the way and strap yourself down to a tight schedule or to rely on the scarce public transport.

Not renting a campervan? Here are 17 day trips you can make from Reykjavik

Food Shopping in Iceland Tips

The first tip is to not go crazy buying things until you’ve “shopped” at your camper rental place and your first campsite. There’s going to be tons of stuff for the taking like rice, pasta, sauces, and other condiments. When you’re done with your trip, you donate your leftovers to the last campsite you stay at to “give back.”

Be sure you do this “shopping” at a campsite around Reykjavik as there isn’t so much to choose from when you’re further out as it’s not anyone’s last night out on the road!

For example, there was nothing at the Vik campsite except one old bottle of oil.

The second tip is Bonus is known as the cheapest of the shopping centers to shop at.

While I didn’t see too much of a difference when we shopped at Netto, Bonus did have a few better deals on things.

A good tip to know is shopping outside of the city can result is overall cheaper prices as well. The Bonus in Selfoss (less than an hour from Reykjavik) was a bit cheaper.

With that said, there aren’t many of these large shopping centers so shop carefully! Stock up, and know when you’re going to stop next for another big shopping day.

Otherwise, you’ll be stuck at the small stores which charge more. Also, Iceland in September can mean some small shops will have shorter hours or could be closed.

Tuna sandwiches, pasta with the frozen veg, eggs and toast, oatmeal, healthy-ish snacks like apples, yogurt and muesli, peanut butter on crackers, and other assorted snacky things. Not exactly the most exciting or healthy diet, but it was the cheap way to go and yeah, we’re in Iceland!

Let me just point out, if you haven’t noticed yet, you need to cook your food.

This is not a request, this a demand.

For the sake of your bank account, you MUST cook your own meals. The prices for food at restaurants are what nightmares are made of. Cook your own food to survive!

• Baby wipes AKA your shower when you don’t have one. Don’t judge. It’s fine. Also, it’s good for giving the car a bit of a wipe on the inside, this is your home after all!
• Extra plastic bags for trash or to “house” random items. Also to use when you drench something.
• Bring a water bottle or buy and reuse. Tap water anywhere is fine, don’t buy water!
• Soap for your body (when you actually get a shower, none will be provided at the campsites) and antibacterial when you don’t have a sink (which will be very often)

It’s stupid expensive like everything else in this goddamn gorgeous country so buy it duty-free! It will be your best bet.

Also, buy enough. I have NO idea why we thought a few mini bottles of booze and a few bottles of wine were enough for nearly two weeks. Silly, us.

We saw them a bit here and there on our trip but not a full-on show. It was regularly overcast, even if it wasn’t raining. A bit unfortunate but not the end of the world. There’s a next time!

BUT just know, you DON’T need a “chasing lights” tour.

You literally need a clear night, darkness, and that’s it! They are almost perpetually happening over the island but a dark clear sky is your ticket to see the lights dance above you, not a guided tour to places you can drive to yourself for free.

You can download an aurora map to see where and when they will be out and at their best. 

Iceland in September is a fine time to see them, we just got unlucky. Your last opportunity to visit them before summer comes into full effect would be to visit Iceland in April .

Our friends saw them in Reykjavik the night we left! We were only about two hours away from them too! Disappointing.

Google maps is good- if you have service. If you have T-Mobile you’ll get OK service (Americans T-Mobile is the BEST for traveling. Go get a SIM now.)

BUT the real winner is  Maps.Me .

I always download these offline maps because you never know when you’ll lose service or when your data will decide to take ten years to load. Also, Maps.Me sometimes knows more than Google (like walking trails).

It was super clutch for finding our camp spots! I literally typed in “camping” and then “view on map” to see which campsites were around me.

This is also easier to see which are open since a phone number is usually listed as well.

I have an ENTIRE post on everything you need to pack for Iceland but the following is the most important.

Good shoes is not a choice, it’s survival. Don’t skip on shoes or a jacket…

This versatile jacket was the best thing ever. It’s two in one with a fluffy inside that detached from an outer shell that is both a windbreaker and rainjacket.

Fleece leggings. I lived in these things! I rotated the three I owned and if I was extra cold, I’d wear two of them.

Accessories like a beanie and proper socks make ALL the difference…

And obviously a scarf or two and some gloves are essentials.

The secret is layering. So buy things that you can layer and take on and off easily. And if you live out of your suitcase like I do, finding things that can be both summer and winter is great, like my summer dresses paired with leggings, my boots, beanie, and jacket. I was good to go!

You’ll need a swimsuit and a sarong if you want to hop in the geothermic waters.

Bring an external battery. You can really only charge when the car is on (unless you’re renting a baller vehicle.) This one is my favorite. It can solar charge (not really useful in Iceland but is in most other places) and it’s tough enough to not break when it drops.

I’d also suggest a GoPro because of Iceland and its psycho weather! You just never know. Plus, waterfalls and wind make the perfect mix to destroy your camera.

READ MORE: Your Complete Guide on What to Wear in Iceland

Prices in Iceland in September: There Goes My Arm and My Leg…

Of course, everyone spends differently but hopefully, my breakdown here can give you a better idea what prices can be like while traveling Iceland in September. It ain’t pretty, and we tried our damnedest to keep costs down.

• Campervan for 12 nights – $1275 (One of the cheapest you can get, off-season price, and with a discount!)
• Stupid taxi mistake – $125
• Food for 2 for 12 days – $250 (including going out for a drink and a snack one night and one meal at a restaurant)
• Campsites – $100 (remember this will cost more if you don’t stay at the free one or get lucky a few nights)
• Gas – Around $300
• Other – $300+ (including gravel insurance add-on, cooler rental, sleep bag rental, power converter, duty-free wine, Blue Lagoon , random things etc…)

We spent about $1200 each for 12 days in Iceland.

Which averages about $100 per person per day.

*Cue the sobs from my bank account*

This is the most expensive place I’ve ever been in all of my travels. Hands down.

However, the good news is most of the attractions are totally free. Thank god. Because if they start charging, I’m not sure who will be able to afford to go.

You’re all good with just a card! Now, this all depends on the bank you have.

If you’re getting charged out the butt with fees, I’d suggest taking out the cash you need for the trip so you can avoid getting charged often. Iceland is literally the safest country in the world , you’re fine with large amounts of cash.

We use Charles Schwab (American travelers, get this card.), so we don’t have to worry about charges at ATMs, and we have one of the best credit cards for traveling too.

We used it everywhere! I would recommend having just a small amount of cash just in case or if you stay at the nice free campsite I suggested so you can leave a small tip.

Phew! That’s a lot of info, hopefully, these Iceland tips proved to be helpful though.

So are you planning a trip to Iceland? Will you decide to visit Iceland in September?

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Nina Ragusa is an adventurer, messy bun master, breakfast fan, and full-time travel blogger. She's been abroad since 2011 and blogging on Where in the World is Nina? for nearly as long. Nina helps people like you move around the world while making money. She loves talking about how to work abroad and online to travel longer! Read more about Nina

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15 Comments

Hello there! I am currently planning my trip to iceland at the end of september and I am currently a bit confused, since I already planned for a road trip in a campervan, while I saw some forum that it is not advisable to camp in september. I’d like to know how your experience went with travelling in a camper van in september, how were the camping sites and all? I’d really appreciate your feedback. Thank you! 🙂

Hello Korine, please read this .

Thanks for the tips…I really like it…It will really helpful for me …Becuase I am also planning to go to Iceland in the month of the September.

Hi Guys! We are going to Iceland for few days for our wedding anniversary in September! Can you recommend must sees nature – wise near Reykjavik (not a party animals haha)? Also is there a way to get there by bus from the city centre ? I’ve been thinking about Reykjanesfólkvangur. What are 6our thoughts ?

Thanks! Beata

All the info I have is in my posts! https://whereintheworldisnina.com/iceland/

Nina hello! Your post is a total reflection of my mind) I’ve been to Iceland for several times in September and I ‘m convinced this is the most wonderful time to visit the land of ice because of a great load of activities. Staring at northern lights and magical waterfalls, exploring the glaciers! That was amazing! I looked through a lot of internet sources before i got to Iceland . But some of your tips i haven’t took into account during my trip so I’ll plan another one to make it more comfortable! Thank you!

Glad it was helpful! 🙂

Very nice article, Nina ! Good reading and plenty useful tips. WE are going this September and will value all your advice!

Awesome! Have a great time! Thank you 🙂

Hi, Nina! This is an amazing article! I had so much fun reading it. Well, the prices are painful, but it seems to be totally worth it. I was wondering, do you want to go back sometimes?

I def do! But maybe not soon, hehe.

Great guide for an Iceland trip, lots of great tips and information. I highly agree with your GoPro suggestion – I capturing your trips is always important for great memories.

Thanks for all the info and hints for traveling in Iceland. I’m planning on driving by myself in early fall 2018. I don’t want to camp, done that lots. I’ve done research on many sites for about six months as well as lots of reading of travel books. My goal is to see and photograph puffins, whales, basalt sites, waterfalls, volcanoes, horses, plants, museums and cultural sites to the best of my ability. I’m a retired teacher who enjoys learning.

Sounds like an AMAZING trip. I think I remember puffins being around Vik but I wasn’t there at the right time of the year. Have fun!

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• Travel Tips

These Are the Best Times to Visit Iceland

Here are the best times to visit Iceland for ideal weather, fewer crowds, and more.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Over the last decade, Iceland has become one of Europe's "it" destinations thanks to its ethereal — and highly photogenic — landscapes featuring ancient glaciers and rugged fjords.

Before you book your flight to this popular island nation, you'll want to think about everything you want to see and do on your trip because the time of year can determine what's available. Some attractions, like Iceland's famous hot springs , are open all year, while natural phenomena like the northern lights and midnight sun are best viewed during specific months. Here's a breakdown of the tourist seasons in Iceland:

• High Seasons:  June to August and late December
• Shoulder Seasons:  September to October and May
• Low Season:  November to April, excluding holidays

Read on to learn about the best time to visit Iceland for whale watching, northern lights spotting, and more.

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit Iceland for Smaller Crowds

The busiest months in Iceland are June, July, and August, when most natural attractions are open and easily accessible. Iceland can stay relatively warm through the first week of October, so planning a September visit can be ideal since most crowds have thinned as children return to school. May, too, provides ample daylight for sightseeing, warmer temperatures, and fewer crowds.

The off-season between November and April is ideal for those looking to escape the hordes of tourists, as long as you don't mind the dark (by mid-winter, expect only five or six hours of daylight). Though some roads are closed, it's a glorious time to enjoy hot springs, backcountry skiing, and tours by snowmobile or jeep. You'll also have a better chance of spotting the northern lights. Tourism tends to pick up again during the holiday season, so avoid December if you're looking for a crowd-free vacation.

Courtesy of Visit Iceland

Best Times to Visit Iceland for Good Weather

During the summer months — July and August — the temperature in Iceland hovers around 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a popular time to visit. And June, with its 24 hours of daylight, sees just about as many tourists as the peak of summer. But even during this season, rain and intense wind are not uncommon. The island's fickle climate often means you can experience all four seasons in a single day.

The weather remains pleasant in September, with temperatures between 43 and 52 degrees Fahrenheit. May is similar, but if you're keen on exploring some of the more remote hills and fjords, it might not be the best time to visit, as some roads remain closed while they thaw from winter's snowy cover. For serious hikers, the best time to visit Iceland is during the summer, when all the mountain roads and famous trails are open and accessible.

Best Times to Visit Iceland for Lower Prices

Getting to Iceland can be relatively affordable, especially compared to other European destinations. Travelers from the United States and Europe frequently find flight deals — keep an eye out for sales on Icelandair and low-cost airline Play to save even more on your journey.

Accommodations, tours, attractions, and meals can be pretty pricey throughout the year, but you might be able to save money by visiting during the off-season, which is typically late fall through early spring, excluding December. Summer is usually the most crowded and expensive time to visit.

Best Time to Visit Iceland for the Northern Lights

You'll need three essential factors to see the aurora borealis: darkness, clear conditions, and a surge in solar activity. The northern lights are often elusive and can easily be marred by transient clouds. To avoid disappointment, travelers should never plan their trip to Iceland solely for the northern lights because the island's weather is too capricious (statistically, there are more clear nights in Yellowknife, Canada , for example.) The best way to optimize your chances of seeing the northern lights in Iceland is by visiting from mid-October through March, when you have extended hours of darkness, and by getting out into the countryside to reduce ambient light pollution.

Best Time to Visit Iceland for Whale Watching

According to Icelandic marine biologist Edda Elísabet Magnúsdóttir, the peak months to go whale watching in Iceland are June and July. During the summer, Reykjavík sees higher numbers of minke whales and dolphins, while orcas congregate in West Iceland along the Snaefellsnes peninsula during the first half of the year.

In northern Iceland, you'll have a wider window to enjoy visits from humpbacks, minkes, and dolphins, which ply the Atlantic from May to August; a few humpbacks even stick around until the end of the year. Blue whales pass through in the summer, too. For best results, head to the charming small town of Húsavík , where you can spot more than 20 species of whales on boat tours that leave from the harbor.

Best Time to Visit Iceland's Hot Springs

Hot springs are intrinsic to Icelandic culture for social as well as wellness benefits. Reykjavík's public pools are open year-round (and are especially invigorating during the dead of winter), but Iceland also has hundreds of hidden "hot pots" that tap directly into the geothermal activity under its lava-ridden surface.

Expert Icelandic mountaineer and cofounder of Midgard Adventure , Sigurdur Bjarni Sveinsson, offers the following advice for hot water hunters: "Check them out during September or, even better, the first half of October, when they're all still accessible by mountain road, but the crowds of tourists have significantly died down."

For travelers who want to visit the Blue Lagoon , the most famous geothermal spa, the best time to visit is during the off and shoulder seasons, when crowds are thinner.

Worst Time to Visit Iceland

Thanks to Iceland's stunning landscapes and seasonal natural phenomena, there's really no bad time to visit. Northern lights seekers flock to the country during the darker winter months, while visitors chasing more daylight opt for summer. Of course, those traveling in the spring and fall can take advantage of more moderate weather and daylight, so the best time to visit Iceland depends on what you want to see and do during your trip.

That said, the warmest months of the year are easily the worst time to visit if you're hoping to avoid the onslaught of tourists. July and August see the highest number of travelers, with big-ticket attractions like the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, South Coast, and Jökulsárlón being particularly overrun. If you're planning to visit during that time, consider exploring more remote corners of the island like the Westfjords or East Iceland, which have their own cache of fjords, vistas, and waterfalls that are just as impressive as the natural attractions surrounding the capital — if not more.

• Aug 15, 2022

The Ultimate Guide to Iceland in September

September marks the very last month of summer. This makes it a good travel option for visitors as the peak-season tourist traffic and prices start to wind down, but the weather is still nice enough to take part in some summer activities. We reveal all the reasons why Iceland in September might be easily considered one of the best times to visit Iceland .

Locals famously say that one can experience all four seasons in one day in Iceland, but technically September in Iceland is the month in which Icelandic summer gives way to fall. This means that there are LOTS to do and you won’t be met with peak-season traffic and tariffs to do it. But before you start packing, let’s give you the lowdown on what September in Iceland is like.

The Weather in Iceland in September

Even though summer is losing its battle against the approaching winter (especially if you’re planning to visit Iceland in late September), the temperature in Iceland in September is still quite mild at an average of 8.5 degrees Celsius .

To put this into perspective, the average for summer is 10.6. During September the infamous Icelandic winds are also still fairly calm and the odds of any snowfall are usually slim but not impossible.

Although this is the general weather when visiting Iceland in September, many remark that the weather in the cities feels different, as if the Reykjavik weather in September is warmer than in some of the other parts of Iceland.

But it’s purely because the city and its buildings offer a certain amount of shelter against the elements that it may sometimes appear to be warmer, less windy etc. than the more remote parts. The weather in Iceland always remains unpredictable, so here’s a packing list for Iceland in September that will help you come prepared.

Packing List for Iceland in September

If you’re feeling a bit lost about what to pack for this summer-to-fall transition period, use our handy list to ensure that you have everything you may need . Some of these things may seem pretty odd to those unfamiliar with Iceland weather and what it’s really like taking part in some of the activities available such as hiking and waterfall watching.

Trust us, it’s better to be prepared than trying to take beautiful pictures at Seljalandsfoss whilst completely drenched and shivering. These are the must-pack items and clothes for Iceland in September:

Warm headgear, scarf and gloves

A thick winter jacket (those parka or puffer jackets are ideal)

Waterproof clothes (at least a jacket, pants, and hiking shoes)

A sweater or two

Long sleeve shirts and t-shirts you can wear in layers

Long Pants to wear whilst out and about

A couple of thermal leggings to wear underneath your pants

Some comfy undies

Quite a few woollen socks

Flip flops and a bathing suit (the summer might be at an end, but the hot spring fun is not)

A quick dry towel (you don’t want to be dragging around wet towels on the rest of your travels after your hot spring dip)

A dry bag or one you can wash in the sink (you will be going on plenty of adventures that will leave you with either wet items or muddy items that you really don’t want to pack with the rest of your clean and dry things)

Water bottle (the quality of Iceland water is so high that you will never need to buy any water. Simply fill up your water bottle throughout your trip and activities)

A backpack (to carry with you on day outings or use for hikes)

A power bank, cables and adapter (this should be at the top of any traveller’s packing list to anywhere to be honest)

Things to Do in Iceland in September

When planning a trip to Iceland in September, you need to ensure that you know what items you want to tick off of your Icelandic bucket list since certain events and activities are seasonal.

For example, if you’ve always wanted to experience the Icelandic midnight sun , September is not the right time for you to visit. Here’s our top pick of things to do in Iceland in September. See if they match what’s on your to-do list and if you might even want to add a couple more items you didn’t know about:

Take a Road Trip

This remains one of the best ways to explore the island and September still allows you to do so since many routes and roads are closed during the winter months. There are plenty of popular road trip routes to take.

Just keep in mind that some of these roads can only legally be accessed via a 4WD vehicle, so have a chat with your local rental company and ask them what are the best 4x4 rentals available in Iceland for the dates you’ll be traveling. Some of the most famous road trip routes include:

The Ring Road

Iceland's South Coast

The Arctic Coast

The Westfjords Way

The Golden Circle

Spot the Northern Lights

This is yet another thing that many who visit Iceland during the peak summer months miss out on. Luckily those travelling to Iceland in September are more than likely to spot the Aurora Borealis . That is because the Iceland daylight hours in September are becoming shorter and shorter the more you head towards winter.

Just remember that this light phenomenon needs darkness, so if you want to see the Northern Lights of Iceland in all its September splendour, you’ll need to get away from the city lights and visit some of the more remote areas.

Go Whale Watching

Not only does September mark the end of summer, but it also marks the end of the whale watching season in Iceland . Although whales can be seen throughout the year, many migratory species are only seen during the period of April to September .

If you’re wondering where to stay in Iceland in September that guarantees you a whale of a time (pun intended) then we highly suggest Húsavik be your first port of call. This town is known as the whale watching capital of Iceland. But if your plan was to stick around the capital, there are plenty of whale watching tours departing from Reykjavik.

Take a Hike

The island is full of hiking trails, many of which are in national parks in Iceland . It really doesn’t matter how experienced or fit you are, there are hiking trails for all walks of life (literally). Choose between a range of difficulty levels, one-day or multi-day hikes . Some will even take you right up close to some of the biggest natural attractions Iceland has to offer. The most popular trails amongst hikers are:

The Laugavegur Trek (Moderate trail, Duration of 4 days)

The Hornstrandir Trek (Moderate to Tough trail, Duration of 6 days)

The Askja Trek (Tough trail, Duration of 5 days)

The Glymur Waterfall Hike (Easy to Moderate trail, Duration of 4-6 hours)

The Fimmvörduháls Volcano Hike (Moderate to Tough trail, Duration of 6-7 hours)

The Snæfellsjokull Summit Hike (Moderate to Tough trail, Duration of 7-12 hours)

Pick Some Berries

Many won’t be aware of this, but Iceland has a wide variety of wild berries and if you visit Iceland in September you’ve chosen the perfect time for some wild berry picking . You’ll be out in nature and it won’t cost you anything. Look out for delicious berries such as Bilberries, Blueberries and Crowberries.

Experience Rettir

This is also something that you won’t find on many tourist brochures. If you are visiting Iceland in the first half of September, you’ll get to experience Rettir. This is when the Icelandic sheep return to the farms from the highlands .

It might not sound so impressive, but the hustle and bustle of children howling down the mountains, farmers riding horses like cowboys from a western movie, drones recording the entire event and dogs all helping to get the herd home – it truly is something to behold.

Hop in a Hot Spring

We already mentioned this phenomenon earlier in our packing list section. One of the favourite things to do in Iceland in September is to take a dip in one of the natural hot springs that can be found all over the island. These hot springs are created by volcanic activity heating up the underground water supply .

There are plenty of natural hot springs today that are still exactly as they were found decades or even centuries ago, but then there are others that have been utilised to create man-made public pools and spas. Many swear by the healing powers (especially dermatologically) of the mineral-rich waters, even though we think the relaxation in beautiful surroundings is more than reason enough for a visit. Here are a few of the hot spring hot spots:

Reykjadalur

Landbrotalaug

Landmannalaugar

Join in the Festivities

There are quite a few festivals happening all over Iceland in September . Here are a few that you might want to pencil into your calendar:

RIFF (Reykjavik International Film Festival) : This festival usually hits the screens in Iceland in late September and is known as the film industry event of the year. With both local and international talent being showcased, you never know who you might brush up against somewhere in the capital.

Oktoberfest : Yes, ironically this infamous beer festival is held in Iceland in September. It is held close to the university and lasts three days.

Reykjavik International Literary Festival : Yet another annual international event that brings renowned global names to town. But this time it’s writers coming out to connect with their readers. Another bonus is that all the festival events are free and in English.

Ljosanott : This 5-day festival is held in Reykjanesbaer on the Reykjanes Peninsula and is packed with all sorts of cultural events such as theatre performances, music concerts, art exhibitions, carnival rides and much, much more. This is especially a visitor favourite amongst families.

Go on a Volcano Tour

Iceland is not called the Land of Fire and Ice for nothing. The island is home to more than 30 0 volcanos, and most are open to the public.

That's right, there are even some volcanos close to Reykjavík that you can visit (either to view from a short distance or actually explore inside). These are some of the tours we highly recommend when you come to visit Iceland in September:

Active volcano hike up Geldingadalur

The Katla volcano tour

Underworld lava caving tour

Mount Hekla via the Landmannalaugar hiking tour

Eyjafjallajökull super jeep tour

Go on a Glacier Tour

This is, of course, the other side of the spectrum of the Land of Fire and Ice. There are many ways that you can visit some of these spectacular Icelandic glaciers . If you wish to a glacier tour in Iceland , here you have a few ideas:

Sólheimajökull guided glacier hike

Reykjavik Small group south coast tour and glacier hike

Sólheimajökull ice climb and glacier hike

Skaftafell National Park 3-hour glacier hike

Reykjavik Golden Circle and glacier snowmobile tour

Reykjavik Jokulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Where to Stay in Iceland in September

As you can see from our list there is no lack of things to do when visiting Iceland in September. If you are wondering where to stay in Iceland in September, you’ll need to plan according to your itinerary.

Many choose to stay in the capital of Reykjavik and simply rent a car to explore the outskirts . Others prefer moving around from one place to the other to discover their surroundings. Whichever is your preference, you can start planning a trip to Iceland in September - you won’t be disappointed.

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• Things to do

Iceland in September 2024: Things to See & Do

8 minute read

By Camila Contreras-Langlois

15 July 2021

So you’re interested in touring Iceland in September? Wondering if it’s a good idea? Seeking inspiration? Or maybe you’ve visited Iceland in September before, want to return, and are looking for new things to do? You’re in the right place!

Below you’ll find out all the details you’ll need to visit the Land of Fire and Ice at this time of year. Our travel experts compiled the top reasons to travel to Iceland in September, the best things to do and see, as well as a useful weather and packing guide.

Discover how to make the most of your September vacation.

• Browse Iceland summer vacation packages to plan your September trip.

Is September a good time to visit Iceland?

Yes! September is an excellent month to visit Iceland. You’ll find yourself straddling the end of summer and the start of the quieter traveling season.

Imagine going for a whale-watching cruise during the day, then admiring misty waterfalls and peaks along the south coast, and possibly spotting Northern Lights at night. Does that sound good? We think so too!

And if you’re not convinced yet, we’ve compiled the top 10 reasons to visit Iceland in September:

• Quieter travel season than in June , July or August
• Ample daylight hours for sightseeing
• Good time to go whale watching
• Colorful autumnal landscape
• Plenty of thrilling excursions available
• Excellent road conditions
• One of the oldest cultural tradition takes place
• Mild weather, which is ideal for hiking
• The best of both worlds, between summer and winter
• Possibility of seeing the Northern Lights

• Blog : Iceland in the Fall – Your Guide .

Best things to see in Iceland in September

In September, the natural world of Iceland is your oyster. You’ll be able to get to many of the regions of Iceland and it’s a great time to check sights and activities off your bucket list.

The best things to see during your September vacation include:

• Waterfalls, of all shapes and sizes
• Volcanoes and craters, active (!) and dormant
• Spurting geysers
• Stark lava fields covered in moss
• Deep canyons and impressive rock formations
• Europe’s largest ice caps and glaciers
• Steaming hot springs
• Bobbing icebergs and glacial lagoons
• Volcanic black sand beaches
• Icelandic horses roaming the countryside
• Whales peeking up from the deep waters

And much more!

Best things to do in Iceland in September

You know the best sights to see now, but what about activities? What could you get up to during your Icelandic vacation?

Here are the best activities accessible in September:

• Go hiking in national parks
• Dip in natural hot springs or heated swimming pools
• Meet fluffy Icelandic horses
• Snowmobile atop a glacier
• Take a whale-watching tour
• Journey around the Ring Road
• Snorkel between the tectonic plates
• Hunt for the Northern Lights
• Walk inside a lava tunnel or join an ice cave tour
• Go on a glacier walk
• Step inside a volcano or hike to see an active one
• Kayak in glacial waters
• Visit a spa to warm up and relax

Pick your favorite one (or more!) to fill your days with adventure and make lasting memories.

• Look up all the Iceland activities you could add to your itinerary.

Events in Iceland in September

Attending an international festival in Reykjavík or a cultural event in the countryside is a great way to delve into the traditions and heritage of Iceland. You’ll also get to meet the locals and experience a more authentic side of the country.

After the full cultural calendar of summer, September is a quieter month. That said, you should still mark your diary with the following events, festivals, and activities.

The Reykjavík Jazz Festival extends from the end of August until early September. This means that if you visit in the early days of this month, you could attend an event or two.

One of the best film festivals around is hosted in Reykjavík at the end of September each year. RIFF (Reykjavík International Film Festival) brings together filmmakers and fans from around the world.

The yearly Réttir

We had to include a special place for one of the biggest cultural activities of the country, Réttir. This is the annual rounding up of sheep and horses that all roam freely during the summer.

Réttir is one of the country’s oldest traditions. Every September, farmers, along with friends, family, and sometimes even strangers, journey across the plateau and herd all the sheep back to the sorting pens.

In Skagafjörður, known for its rich heritage of horse breeding, September also marks the time when they round up horses that roam freely across the region.

Best places to visit in Iceland in September

Like we’ve previously mentioned, during your September trip you could see top sights like waterfalls and volcanoes. You could also tour the Ring Road , go off the beaten path, and hike in the countryside.

Below, we’ve included our favorite spots, towns , and regions you should include in your itinerary, and why.

1. Reykjavík

Location: The southwest coast, near Keflavík International Airport.

Why visit? Reykjavík is ideal for a Nordic city break. It’s for you if you enjoy cultural activities, museums , and international cuisine. Plenty of day trips and excursions are available from the capital so you won’t miss out.

Don’t miss: A walk down Laugavegur shopping street and visit the interactive Perlan museum and FlyOver Iceland.

• Check out summer multi-day breaks from Reykjavík .

2. Westman Islands

Location: Just off the south coast near Holt.

Why visit? With magnificent coastal scenery, the main island of Heimaey is a must-see. It’s an ideal day tour to add to your itinerary to discover more of its natural habitat and volcanic history.

Don’t miss: A visit to the location of the 1973 volcanic eruption and see the half-buried houses under lava.

3. The Golden Circle

Location: The southwest, just outside the capital city, Reykjavík.

Why visit? This short itinerary includes some of the most famous sights in Iceland. It is a great day trip from Reykjavík if you’re staying on a city break, or easily added to any road trip around the country.

Don’t miss: The 3 main spots of the route: Gullfoss, Geysir, and Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park.

• Browse Golden Circle tours .
• Blog: Your guide to visiting the Golden Circle .

4. Snæfellsnes peninsula

Location: West Iceland, around 2 hours’ drive north of Reykjavík.

Why visit? To get a taste of Iceland as it is often called “Iceland in miniature.” See vast lava fields, grand waterfalls, scenic cliffs, and tranquil fishing villages.

Don’t miss: Snæfellsjökull National Park and Kirkjufell mountain.

5. Reykjanes peninsula

Location: The southwest of Iceland.

Why visit? This corner of Iceland is where you’ll surely land during your visit. It is often overlooked as people head straight to Reykjavik and beyond from here. But stay a while longer and you could explore a land rich in heritage and stunning natural wonders.

Don’t miss: Crossing the Bridge Between Continents to experience the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Hike to Iceland’s newest volcano, Fagradalsfjall . Or relax at the world-famous Blue Lagoon spa .

• View summer self-drive tours in Iceland .
• Blog: Iceland in summer: must sees and must dos .

6. Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss

Location: The south coast.

Why visit? These are two memorable waterfalls easily accessible on the southwest coast. Skógafoss is renowned for its rainbows created by the mist and at Seljalandsfoss you could walk behind the curtain of water. They will make for fun photo opportunities.

Don’t miss: The nearby Kvernufoss, for even more waterfall beauty. And why not read our guide to Iceland’s best waterfalls ?

7. Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and Diamond Beach

Location: The southeast coast, an hour south of Höfn.

Why visit? These two natural sights, located across the road from each other, are iconic and featured in many photos of Iceland. It’s no wonder with the stunning icebergs and chunks of glistening ice you could see here.

Don’t miss: A boat tour along the lagoon to admire the icebergs from up close.

8. Westfjords

Location: A peninsula located in northwest Iceland.

Why visit? Add this region to your itinerary if you want to head off the beaten path. This way, you could see an area of outstanding natural beauty with flat-topped mountains, fjords, and bird cliffs.

Don’t miss: Ísafjörður, the unofficial capital of the Westfjords, the Dynjandi waterfall, and Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, for sweeping sea views and hiking trails.

Location: The north coast along Skjálfandi bay, around one hour from Akureyri.

Why visit? If you’re a wildlife enthusiast and want to see whales during your time in Iceland, Húsavík is the place to visit. This quaint fishing town is, in fact, nicknamed the capital of whale watching in Iceland.

Don’t miss: A whale-watching cruise, of course! Nearby, you could also pop by Akureyri, the “Capital of the North.” Or drive east to go visit the lush Ásbyrgi canyon and Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe.

10. Lake Mývatn area

Location: Northeast Iceland along the Ring Road.

Why visit? Immerse yourself in the otherworldly landscapes of Lake Mývatn to experience the power of Iceland and see why it’s nicknamed the Land of Fire and Ice. This area is full of impressive natural sights to explore.

Don’t miss: The Dimmborgir lava formation, pseudo-craters of Skútustaðir, and Solfataras of Námaskarð. You could also stop for a warming dip at the Mývatn Nature Baths.

• Look up summer camping tours of Iceland .

What about the central highlands?

Did you hear about the fantastic hiking trails located in this remote area of Iceland? If that’s something you’re interested in, visit in July or August . The roads into the highlands open depending on the weather and are usually only accessible at this time of year.

Weather and daylight hours in Iceland in September

Hopefully the above inspired you to look into a September vacation to Iceland. You’ll be able to experience so much of the country and make the most of your trip. But what about that famous Icelandic weather? We highlight it all below and even include a handy packing guide.

• Blog: When to visit Iceland: Your guide .

Weather in September

September is the transitional month between summer and winter and so you can expect changeable, autumnal weather. That means some wind, rain, and mild average temperatures ranging between 6°C (43°F) and 10°C (50°F).

Daylight hours in September

In September, days are slowly becoming shorter, but you can still enjoy plenty of daytime brightness. On average, there are between 11 and 14 hours of daylight at this time of year. This is ideal to sightsee at your heart’s content.

Early in the month, the sun rises around 6 a.m. and sets by 8:45 p.m. By late September, expect daylight between 7:30 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Can I see the Northern Lights in Iceland in September?

The summer months are not recommended to see the Aurora Borealis in Iceland. You’ll need proper darkness to spot Northern Lights in the sky and so daylight hours matter.

Thankfully, September is on the cusp with nights growing longer. You may be lucky enough to see them late at night during your vacation.

If you’re planning a specific Northern Lights tour, we recommend you travel to Iceland in winter. Those are quieter months with longer nights, giving you more opportunities to see the famous Aurora Borealis.

• Browse winter travel packages to Iceland .
• Blog: Your guide to the Northern Lights in Iceland .

Packing guide for September

Because Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, you should pack and be ready for all possibilities. In September you might still enjoy some warmer temperatures but could experience cooler nights as winter approaches. You should bring plenty of layers with you, allowing you to adapt to the day’s weather.  

Ever heard the Nordic saying: “There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing”? Keep that in mind and you won’t miss out on any of the fun excursions and days out you have planned.

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

• Short-sleeved shirts and lightweight layers
• Fleece or lightweight wool sweaters
• A waterproof and windproof jacket or shell layers
• Insulated jacket
• Waterproof trousers
• Gloves, scarf, and warm hat
• Cap and sunglasses
• Sturdy walking or hiking boots with good socks
• Thermal underwear and socks
• Binoculars for wildlife watchers
• Swimwear, flip flops, and towel to go for a dip
• Blog: Complete guide to Iceland .

Planning your trip to Iceland in September

We answered the first question: Is it worth visiting Iceland in September? Big yes! Now, with all the inspiration and tips you got from this article, all that’s left to do is narrow down what you want to see and do most.

Once you have that figured out, why not make your dream September vacation a reality? With Iceland Tours, it’s really easy. Pick your favorite way to travel whether that’s camping trips , multi-day breaks , self-drive tours , or privately guided packages , and then choose your ideal itinerary.

From there you have the option to add activities, and the type of car and accommodation you prefer, all based on your preferences and budget. The local travel experts at Iceland Tours will then organize it all for you before you arrive. You’ll prepare, arrive and travel in good hands with our support.

See you in September!

• 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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Best September Tours in Iceland

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Explore an unequalled wealth of tours and packages

Vacation Packages in Iceland

Self drive tours in iceland, tour calendar, nature tours in iceland, adventure tours in iceland, cheap bus tours in iceland, top tour destinations in iceland, verified customer reviews.

Read first-hand reviews by customers from across the world

Guojin Gong

Great experience! The tour guide (Kiki) is so helpful and told us a lot of stories along the road, making it fun and educations (for my 12-year-old girl). Definitely recommend!

Yew Ming Kong

It was a great experience. This tour really made the trip for us. AJ was our tour guide and he was extremely personable, experienced and insightful in ice cave and Iceland in general, being a local himself. He had lot of fun stories and facts, and kept us engaged right from the get go in the jeep ride. The ice cave was spectacular, we would never have learnt or experienced Iceland in this eyeopening manner if not for the tour. It was important because it was not only aesthetic, but also bore great responsibility on us to take care of the planet seeing how global warming is affecting nature. AJ gave us an extremely humorous and knowledgeable geology session after the ice cave. He has great photography skills on his Nokia too. Anyone would be lucky to have AJ as the tour guide. It would have been better if the time spent in the ice cave was longer as it was shorter than expected!

Thomas Schönwerth

We had a great time, staff was really friendly. Unforgettable Experience.

Jessica Lynas

It was lovely! I'd recommend it for anyone who doesn't want to do a 10 hours tour straight away. This is a lovely little taster of what Iceland can offer. 10/10

Visiting Iceland in September

September in Iceland is a window to the serene beauty of a transitioning season, where the vivid greens of summer give way to the first hints of autumnal gold and orange.

This month offers milder temperatures and a chance to experience the country's natural splendor with fewer tourists. The landscapes are alive with the last blooms of wildflowers, and the waterfalls flow with the full might of summer's meltwater. It's an ideal time for those seeking to explore the great outdoors with ample daylight and a good chance of catching the northern lights as the nights begin to draw in.

The cultural heartbeat of Iceland is strongly felt in September. The capital city of Reykjavik comes alive with festivals that celebrate music, art, and film, offering visitors a taste of the country's vibrant arts scene alongside its natural wonders. From the cool jazz melodies to the illuminating displays of the Night of Lights, the city offers diverse cultural encounters that complement the quieter, more reflective mood of the countryside.

Travelers to Iceland in September can revel in the ease of self-driven tours around the Ring Road, engage in outdoor activities like hiking and whale watching in still-pleasant weather, and enjoy the warmth of geothermal pools under increasingly starry skies. With the land teeming with life and the onset of the aurora season, a trip to Iceland in September is an enchanting experience that combines the best of all worlds—outdoor adventures, cultural festivities, and the tranquil beauty of a country on the cusp of winter.

Frequently asked questions

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ICELAND TOURS IN SEPTEMBER

Enjoy the calm of travelling after the peak summer season in Iceland, with lighter traffic on the scenic Ring Road and fewer crowds at famous natural attractions. With a road trip or guided tour planned by the local experts at Nordic Visitor, a vacation in Iceland in September is an experience of a lifetime.

TRAVEL TO ICELAND IN SEPTEMBER

Thinking of tours in Iceland in September? Look no further!

Visiting in September is a great time of the year. The summer season is winding down meaning you’ll experience a slightly quieter side of the island, with fewer crowds at popular sites. You can also enjoy the mild weather, fall colours, and ample hours of daylight for sightseeing.

You could explore Iceland with a private guide , as part of a small group tour , on a self-drive adventure  or a multi-day tour . Whichever way you prefer, you’ll be surprised by the diversity of natural wonders you can see on a holiday to Iceland in September.

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.

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Explore at your own pace with a car

Enjoy the freedom of a road trip, but with a helping hand. Here are some self-drive tours in Iceland you might like.

Iceland Full Circle Classic

South & west iceland classic, south iceland at leisure, iceland ring road express, iceland full circle at leisure, iceland grand tour, iceland ultimate adventure, iceland road trip, south & west iceland at leisure, south iceland classic, south iceland & into the glacier, romance around iceland, golden circle & south coast, highlights of westfjords & west iceland, join a guided small group.

Explore Iceland with like-minded travellers and an experienced local guide with one of these small group tours.

Highlights of the Ring Road

Scenic South Iceland

Geysers, volcanoes & glacier lagoon.

Northern Lights Circle Tour

Enjoy a city break with day tours.

Stay in Reykjavik and see the countryside on planned excursions. Here are some of our favourite 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, best of south iceland - winter, golden circle classic - winter, golden circle, blue lagoon & northern lights, best of south & north iceland - winter, golden circle, south coast & lake mývatn, active iceland - winter, classic south coast - winter, northern lights adventure in the westfjords, reykjavik, northern lights, golden circle express, golden circle express - winter, travel with your own local guide.

Experience Iceland’s famous sights and hidden gems on your terms with one of these privately guided tours.

The Natural Wonders of Iceland - Private

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Scenic South Iceland - Private

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, luxury getaways, best seller, what do our customers say.

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

David, United States

Iceland full circle classic, september 2023, 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!

Patricia, United States

Scenic south iceland, august 2023, 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!

Teddy, Canada

Iceland ultimate adventure, june 2023, 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.

Michael, United States

Natural wonders of iceland, september 2023, 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. 

Joan, United States

Iceland ring road in luxury - summer, august 2023, 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.

Noah, United States

South iceland at leisure, june 2023, 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.

Joanne, United Kingdom

Best of south iceland, september 2023, 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.

Richard, United States

4x4 highland adventure in the south, july 2023, 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.

William, Australia

Golden circle classic, may 2023, 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.

Shelly, United States

South & west iceland classic - private, august 2023, 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!

Vidyashankar, United States

Highlights of the ring road - private, july 2023, 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.

Margaret, United States

Natural wonders of iceland, may 2023, 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.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT VISITING ICELAND IN SEPTEMBER

Whatever you’re wondering about visiting Iceland in September, we’re here to answer your most commonly asked questions. Is September a good time to visit Iceland? Definitely! What can you visit during this time of year? Read below to find out all the details from our local travel experts.

How is Iceland in September?

September is a quieter month that falls after the popular Iceland summertime. Known as the shoulder season, it’s the ideal time of year for those who want to still enjoy decent weather but avoid larger crowds.

The temperatures are generally mild – although the weather can be a bit more unpredictable than in summer – and there are still ample daylight hours for sightseeing.

There is also a slight possibility of seeing early northern lights in September as night-time darkness returns.

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

There are plenty of things you can do and visit during your trip to Iceland. September is one of the best times to visit the Land of Fire and Ice, as there is a wide variety of experiences to enjoy. 

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

• Marvel at waterfalls
• Hike in national parks
• Dip in hot springs and pools
• Look for whales and puffins
• See geothermal wonders and volcanoes
• Go horse riding
• Walk along unusual beaches
• Taste Icelandic cuisine
• Venture off the beaten track
• Admire glacier lagoons

There is a slight possibility you may even be able to spot the northern lights.

• Read about the best things to do in Iceland according to local experts
• Learn everything you need to know about Iceland travel with this guide

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

September is a great month to travel to Iceland and see its top natural attractions. More so, you’ll enjoy long daylight hours and fair weather, ideal conditions for exploring.

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

• 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
• Admire the grandeur of the Eyjafjallajökull volcano and glacier
• Visit the village of Vík to see the interesting rock formations of Dyrhólaey
• Join a boat tour on the Jökulsárlón   glacier lagoon
• Discover the lunar landscapes of the Lake Mývatn , area
• See the “Capital of North Iceland”, Akureyri
• Go off the beaten path at the Westfjords
• Roam around the Snæfellssjökull National Park

For rainy days, 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
• Venture “into the glacier” at Langjökull
• Find out about the best places in Iceland to visit  and hidden gems in Iceland
• Browse these  popular vacations in Iceland or off-the-beaten-path Iceland tour packages

What is the weather like in Iceland in September?

As September is a transitional month, you can expect some autumn-like weather in Iceland at this time, with mild temperatures and some wind. On average, there are highs of 10°C (50°F) and lows of 6°C (43°F).

You can expect more rain than in the summer, however October is the wettest month of the year. In September, you can enjoy the remnants of nice summer weather and long daylight hours.

Iceland’s climate is unpredictable, so prepare for sun, wind and rain if you’re planning a trip for September.

What is the temperature in September?

In the capital, the average temperature is 8°C (46°F) in September. In Akureyri, in the north, it is 7°C (45°F).

What to pack for Iceland in September?

Iceland is famous for its ever-changing weather, so we advise that you be as prepared as possible. As September follows the Icelandic summer, we recommend bringing warmer layers to be ready for the cooler temperatures. That way, come rain or shine, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the country.

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

• Fleece and lightweight wool jumpers
• Waterproof and windproof jacket or shell layers
• Waterproof 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.

• Find out more about Icelandic weather in September with this weather and climate guide
• Not sure when to go to Iceland? This ultimate guide to the best times to visit will give you all the details

What to wear in Iceland in September?

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

As the weather is expected to be mild but unpredictable in September, we recommend layers. That way you can remove or add clothes depending on the day’s weather.

Make sure to bring some warm under layers as well as water and windproof outer layers. If you plan on visiting beaches, going for coastal walks and exploring national parks, you should wear some good hiking shoes or boots.

What are the daylight hours in Iceland in September?

While daylight hours are starting to reduce in September, you can still enjoy plenty of daytime brightness to explore Iceland at your heart’s content. You can expect daylight hours between 6 AM and 8:30 PM on average.

Earlier in the summer, Iceland experiences around 18-20 hours of daylight thanks to the midnight sun. By October the days are much shorter, with the sun rising around 7:30 AM and setting around 7 PM.

Can I see the northern lights in Iceland in September?

In September, it is possible, but rare.

From October to March, you could book one of the many dedicated northern lights tours available in Iceland. These allow you to go to quieter and more remote areas to (hopefully) enjoy the spectacle. Or, you can always add a guided northern lights tour to the first night of another winter package .

• Discover northern lights packages to Iceland and other Nordic destinations
• For your best chance to see the auroras and capture them, read this northern lights guide to Iceland

Do you need a 4x4 in Iceland in September?

The short answer is no. The road conditions in Iceland are generally good at this time of year and during the summer. So, it is not necessary for you to book such a vehicle.

Of course, you may want to head off the beaten path. If you would like to explore the highlands, the F-roads absolutely require a 4x4 drive.

• Browse self-drive tours in Iceland and learn more about rentals with this guide to 4x4 and cars in Iceland

How to tour Iceland in September?

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

Visit the capital with a city break If you’re looking for a fun but short getaway, come explore Reykjavík . There is much to discover within the capital and nearby.

Here are some of the best things to do in September in Iceland’s capital:

• Go to the top of Hallgrímskirkja Church
• Take a dip at a local swimming pool
• See Grótta Lighthouse
• Walk along the coast
• Visit the Einar Jónsson Art Museum
• Attend the Reykjavík International Film Festival

You could also join day tours to discover beyond Reykjavík, including the Reykjanes Peninsula and the famous Golden Circle.

Take the wheel for an epic road trip September is an excellent month for those who want to tour Iceland at their own pace. Pick up your rental car and journey around the island along the Ring Road (Route 1).

At this time of year, the road conditions are still good for touring, and you can enjoy long daylight hours to drive and explore.

Driving in Iceland is an adventure that you won’t regret! Especially if you book with Nordic Visitor, as we offer collision damage waiver, unlimited in-car Wi-Fi, and a 24/7 helpline for emergencies.

• Learn more about driving in Iceland and discovering the Golden Circle at your own pace
• Love the sound of a self-drive adventure? Find out more about self-drive tours and read how long it takes to drive around Iceland

Join a small guided group tour At the tail end of the high tourist season, in September you can decide to join a group tour of the natural wonders of Iceland, or a specific northern lights safari.

A small group tour offers an enriching experience, allowing you to get the most out of your trip thanks to the expertise of a local guide. What’s more, you’ll be travelling alongside 16 people at most, so the trip is still personal for you.

Book a private tour With these packages, you’ll enjoy the undivided attention of your own expert guide who will also act as your personal driver. Sit back, relax and take in the view as your local guide gives you a deeper insight into the Icelandic history and beauty.

As well as a personal itinerary, your private guide will be able to tailor the tour even more to your preferences. You get to stop where you want to see what interests you specifically. Ask all the questions you want, get unique insight and relax in the comfortable vehicle.

Good to know: Our Iceland itineraries aren’t set in stone. Our Reykjavík-based Iceland experts know the country inside out. They’ll help you see Iceland your way, tailoring your itinerary and adding all the best excursions to suit you.

• Find out more about visiting Iceland earlier, in June , July or August
• Or visit Iceland later, in October , November or December

Scroll down to learn more about Nordic Visitor’s services.

— OTHER DESTINATIONS

See more of northern europe.

• Want more road trip ideas? Venture to Scotland and Ireland
• Like stunning scenery and Viking history? Discover Scandinavia
• Prefer winter scenery? Make for 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?

Blog posts you might like

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.

Protect Your Trip »

The 18 best places to see the northern lights.

Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list.

The Best Places for the Northern Lights

Getty Images

The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

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Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

• Central and northern Alaska
• Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
• Southern Greenland
• Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

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Tags: Travel , Vacation Ideas

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