It seems impossible that one country could be home to both volcanoes and glaciers, lava fields and ice caves. But Iceland, the land of fire and ice, is just that. As one of the last countries to be populated by human settlers (and still one of the most sparsely-populated countries!), Iceland has quickly become one of the top tourist destinations in the world.
There’s a lot to consider when planning to visit this magical country. There’s an endless array of sights to see and things to do. The time of year you’ll be there and what kind of travel you prefer will massively change what kind of trip you’ll have to Iceland.
Whether you dream of camping below the Northern Lights or relaxing in a geothermal pool, Iceland has something for everyone. So if you’re wondering how to plan the perfect trip to Iceland, look no further.
When to Visit Iceland
The time of year that you visit Iceland will have a huge effect on what activities you’ll be able to do while you’re there. Iceland’s unique northern location means seasons swing wildly. From harsh, cold winters to bright, breezy summers, your itinerary will depend largely on when you decide to go.
Winter
Winter in Iceland lasts from December to February. Winter is considered Iceland’s off-season. Expect only a few hours of golden-hour sunlight a day and snow blanketing everything around you. If you prefer to avoid crowds of other tourists at popular destinations, this might be the best time for you to see Iceland.
Average temperatures range from -10°C/14°F to -1°C/30°F during the winter months. While certainly cold due to the high latitude, being surrounded by the ocean helps temper the weather throughout the year. You’ll need plenty of warm and waterproof layers to visit during winter, but don’t let this stop you from seeing the magic of Iceland in the low season.
Braving the dark Iceland winter does come with a massive perk: it’s the best time of year to see the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights. Other top winter activities include snowmobiling, snowshoeing, ice cave and glacier hiking, and taking a dip in the famous Blue Lagoon.
Be aware that driving on Icelandic roads in the winter can be pretty dangerous. If you’re not confident in your ice-driving abilities consider going on a guided tour.
Spring
Spring is from about March through May in Iceland. It’s the shoulder season, making it perfect for those looking for slightly longer days while still avoiding the main tourist season and the inflated prices that come with it.
Average temperatures range from -10°C/14°F to 5°C/40°F. Weather in the spring can be a bit unpredictable. Visitors in spring may encounter rain, snow, sun, or massive gusts of wind on any given day. You’ll want to pack plenty of clothing options. Some roads may still be closed from the winter, depending on how early in the spring season you go.
Spring is a great time for animal lovers to plan a trip to Iceland. It’s the best season to see the puffins of Iceland or go on a whale-watching tour. You can also see and ride the beautiful Icelandic horses that roam the countryside. Spring is also when the waterfalls of Iceland really come to life, as the weather warms up and the snow melts.
Summer
Summer is the high season for Iceland and runs from June to August. While visiting during summer means visiting with the masses, there’s a good reason this season is so popular. Summer boasts the warmest weather and the longest daylight hours.
Average temperatures will fall between 2°C/36°F and 12°C/54°F. Due to the high latitude, the entire country sees as much as 24 full hours of sunlight a day. However, the weather is still chilly by any standard, so you’ll still want to bring warm layers.
Summer is a great time for many different outdoor activities, and with the long days, you’ll have more time to do them. From midnight golf to hiking through the fjords, to snorkeling between two tectonic plates, summer in Iceland boasts a wealth of adventurous things to do.
Be aware that planning a trip to Iceland during the high season means dealing with inflated prices. Iceland is already the most expensive country in Europe. Visiting between June and August will cost you an even higher premium as business booms.
Autumn
Fall in Iceland occurs from September to November. This is a great time for visitors that still want to experience warmer weather while avoiding the most expensive season. The summer crowds fall away a bit by the time autumn rolls around and prices drop back down.
Average temperatures range from -6°C/21°F to 8°C/46°F. The days start to become shorter as the winter solstice approaches, but there’s still plenty of daylight. Just like spring, autumn weather can be pretty unpredictable. You’ll want to be prepared for rain, wind, sun, and even snow in late autumn.
Autumn is considered part of the off-season, but there are still so many things to do in Iceland at this time. Year-round popular destinations like the Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon are accessible during the fall. Geothermal pools and hot springs are other great choices for autumn as the temperatures drop.
How to See Iceland
There are several different ways to see Iceland and enjoy its natural beauty. The right choice will vary depending on your budget, length of trip, season and personal preference.
Guided Tours
Guided tours are the best option for travelers that don’t want to spend too much time figuring out every aspect of their trip. There are a myriad of top-notch companies to go through, whether you’re looking for a group or private tour.
Guided tours are certainly the most expensive option, but they save you time while ensuring you see the most popular destinations Iceland has to offer. They’re also a great choice for visitors coming to Iceland in the winter when it takes some expertise to drive on the dangerously icy roads.
Self-Driven Tours
Self-driven tours are the perfect compromise for many visitors. You can see Iceland without sharing a bus with other travelers or paying more for a private tour, while still having your trip planned for you.
You can either find self-driven tours through a tour agency or a car rental agency. Iceland has both automatic and manual vehicles, so make sure you pick a car you’re confident you can drive. Here are some of the top choices for self-driven tours.
Rent a Car
Maybe the idea of driving around Iceland yourself appeals to you, but you don’t want to have to stick to the schedule provided by a self-guided tour. Why not rent a car instead?
This option is best for travelers that love to research and plan their own trips. If you enjoy the ultimate freedom of planning every aspect of your trip and don’t mind the extra work, this is the top choice for you.
Bus Passport Trips
Bus passports are the most budget-friendly way to see the beauty of Iceland. There are a variety of bus passports available for purchase depending on which part of the country you want to visit.
This travel option is best for folks that love to hike and camp and don’t mind venturing out into nature on their own. Different bus passports will let you hop-on and hop-off at all sorts of outdoor destinations throughout Iceland.
What to Pack
No matter when you’re planning to visit Iceland, you should be prepared for the weather to change on a dime. As mentioned before, the fact that Iceland is surrounded by water helps to temper the weather. However, all seasons in Iceland can be a bit unpredictable.
You’ll want to bring thermal layers, waterproof layers, and winter accessories like gloves and a hat. This goes for any season, as even the summer can be quite cold.
Above all else, pack warm! For a helpful (and funny) visual, check out this video on what to pack created by Iceland’s tourism board.
Booking Accommodations in Iceland
Just like there are a variety of ways to see Iceland, there are a few different options when it comes to accommodations. Some travelers may seek out the luxury and privacy of guesthouses, while those looking for adventure might prefer to camp.
Hotels
While hotels tend to be one of the more expensive options, they’re a great choice for folks planning to visit more remote towns. Hotels can be found all across the country and at a variety of price points.
Booking.com aggregates listings for hotels all over the land of fire and ice. Be sure to check out their top-rated spots for each region; you’re sure to find the perfect spot no matter where you’re planning to go.
Hostels
If you’re looking to keep a low budget for accommodations, hostels are one of the best choices. There aren’t hostels in every small town in Iceland, but if your trip is taking you through some of the more popular tourist destinations you’ll be covered.
Check out sites like Hostelworld to peruse the wide variety of hostels available throughout the country. They’ve even got specific recommendations for budget travelers and solo travelers.
Guesthouses
Guesthouses are the answer for folks seeking a quieter and more personalized accommodation experience. Most guest houses in Iceland are family-owned and operated. They’re available in both large and small towns across the country and are a great way to support the small-business economy in Iceland.
Typically, guest houses come at a higher price tag and may not be the best choice for budget travelers. Many guest houses list on Airbnb, which makes it easy to search for the perfect guest house. You can sort results by price, location, rating, and a host of other factors.
Camping
Camping is ideal for budget travelers and those looking to spend as much time as possible surrounded by the natural wonder of Iceland. There are more than 170 registered campsites available throughout the country.
If you’re planning to visit more remote regions of Iceland, camping is a great choice. The one major caveat to camping is that this form of accommodation is only available during the summer months. For more information, check out the tourism board’s article on camping in Iceland.
Planning Your Itinerary for Iceland
When visiting Iceland, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do. The land of fire and ice has the perfect activity for everyone. Whether you’re looking to relax in a hot spring or venture through an ice cave, all visitors will find it easy to stay entertained in Iceland.
Go Horseback Riding
Riding an Icelandic horse through the countryside is a great way to see the country’s jaw-dropping beauty without having to hike. Icelandic horses are super unique: their small stature, furry coats, and long manes make them unlike any other horse in the world.
There are horseback riding tours for riders of all skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Most tours run for about 90 minutes, although there are exceptions. You’ll be guided through the lush nature of Iceland, taking in the sights from your saddle. One popular horseback riding option is to take a horseback tour through the beautiful lava fields outside of Reykjavik.
Visit the Blue Lagoon
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Iceland, the Blue Lagoon is a geothermal pool located outside of Reykjavik. Folks flock here to bathe in the milky-blue waters and enjoy the warm steam as it rises up from the earth.
Tickets must be pre-booked to the Blue Lagoon in advance. It’s wise to book tickets early, especially if you plan to visit during the high season. In addition to swimming in the Blue Lagoon, visitors can choose to purchase a range of retreat spa options.
Many visitors recommend the Blue Lagoon ritual, where you get to bathe in the three natural wonders of the geothermal pool. Walk from chamber to chamber to coat yourself in the healing powers of silica, algae, and the minerals that make the lagoon so good for your skin.
Traverse The Golden Circle
Consider the Golden Circle the perfect sampling of the diverse nature that Iceland has to offer. This popular tourist trio consists of Thingvellir National Park, the Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Geysir Geothermal Area. All three stunning locations are within a two-hour drive of Reykjavik. Many visitors choose to visit all three in one day.
Thingvellir National Park was the first national park established in Iceland. It also has the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The unique geology of the park is due to the fact that it’s located right between the Eurasian and American tectonic plates.
While there are many incredible waterfalls across Iceland, Gullfoss is one of the most famous. And for good reason! This powerful waterfall consists of two drops and is well known for the rainbows that emit from its spray on sunny days.
During the summer, tourists can even raft through the Gullfoss canyon. While you can visit Gullfoss during any season, it’s best during the warmer months when the pathways have thawed and you can walk directly up to the falls.
The last stop on the Golden Circle, the Geysir Geothermal Area, is so popular because you can be sure to see an eruption while you’re there.
There are two famous geysers in the area: The Great Geysir and Strokkur. While the Great Geysir rarely erupts anymore, Strokkur goes off about every ten minutes and erupts at speeds of up to 37 miles per hour.
Besides the geysers themselves, the geothermal area is a beautiful natural space to explore. For those looking to shop, there’s also the Geysir Center where you can purchase unique Icelandic goods.
Marvel at the Northern Lights
Many travelers flock to Iceland for the sole purpose of witnessing this natural wonder. Being able to see the Northern Lights while in Iceland will largely depend on what time of year you visit. The best time to see them is between November and April when the days are shorter and the nights are longer.
The Northern Lights can be seen either as part of a tour package or on your own. If you’d prefer to venture out and find them yourself, read up on tips to improve your chances of being successful.
Keep in mind that no matter how well you try to plan, the Northern Lights can be elusive. Many uncontrollable factors contribute to their visibility, so make sure to have other activities planned for your time in Iceland.
Hike Through Glaciers and Ice Caves
No matter what time of year you visit Iceland, hiking through the glaciers and ice caves that gave this country its name should be at the top of your list. This is an activity that you’ll definitely want a guide for.
A popular option is the Solheimajokull Glacier just two hours outside of Reykjavik. Visitors are outfitted with all the gear they’ll need and given safety instructions to ensure a fun visit. The ice is covered in black ash from volcanic eruptions, giving the landscape a stark and beautiful look.
If you’re more interested in ice caves, look no further than the ones located in Vatnajokull. These gorgeous caves are formed when water melts during the summer, creating a series of canals through the ice.
It’s also necessary to have a guide for the ice caves, as changes in weather can cause them to flood and become dangerous. Just like glacial hiking, you’ll be provided with a helmet and crampons before you explore the caves.
Go Whale Watching
Iceland is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching. This is because there are over 20 different species of cetaceans roaming the waters around Iceland. Typically tours depart from Reykjavik, Husavik, and Akureyri.
While all three options provide the opportunity to see a variety of whale species, go whale-watching in Husavik if you want the very best experience. This region is Iceland’s whale-watching capital, due to the abundant feeding grounds located in its waters.
You’ll have the chance to see everything from humpback whales to minke whales. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a killer whale!
Explore the Capital of Reykjavik
When visiting Iceland, you’ll certainly stop through Reykjavik. Many tourists base their entire trip out of the capital city, taking day trips to ice caves and national parks before returning to Reykjavik to unwind.
Downtown Reykjavik is home to a plethora of bars, restaurants, and cafes. A night out in Iceland can get pretty expensive. Luckily, most nightlife spots have happy hours that last for a large portion of the evening, so time your outing accordingly to spare your wallet.
Reykjavik is also home to some sightseeing all it’s own. If you’d like a change of pace from seeing the natural wonders Iceland has to offer, spend a day trekking through the city. Check out the striking Hallgrimskirkja Lutheran church, or catch a show at the sleek and modern Harpa Concert Hall.
Discover Iceland’s Viking Past
If you spot what looks like an ancient ship floating in midair on the journey from Keflavik airport to Reykjavik, you’re not imagining it. That’s Viking World, a museum dedicated to preserving the history of Iceland’s Viking ties.
Inside you’ll find a whole host of interactive exhibits and activities for the whole family. Explore the famous Icelander ship that sailed the Atlantic in 2000. Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Norse mythology, then have a blast at the Viking playground and Settlement Zoo.
Tickets cost 1500 Krona for adults, but the museum also offers a family ticket option. Guided tours are also available but must be booked at least a day in advance.
Cuddle Up to Some Puffins
Just outside of Reykjavik lies the uninhabited islands of Lundey and Akurey. While there aren’t any people living there, both islands are famous for their large colonies of adorable puffins. Take a boat across from Iceland’s mainland to explore the rugged landscape and witness these creatures in action.
Spring is the best time to visit the islands. Between March and May, you can see the puffins nesting for the season and nursing their young. Both islands are also home to a host of other animals, including guillemots, ducks, and cormorants.
The puffins of Lundey and Akurey are quite accustomed to visitors, so it’s pretty easy to get a close look at these wild animals. But remember, keep a safe distance and don’t feed the animals you encounter.
Visit Husey for Flora and Fauna
The plains of Husey in east Iceland are considered a haven for nature lovers. In just the 15 square miles belonging to the Husey farm, you can find over 30 species of birds and a whopping 170 varieties of plants.
Visitors to Husey can stay at the quaint Husey farm, where guests sleep in modest accommodations and prepare meals in a shared kitchen. Horseback riding tours are also available at the farm. Depending on what season you visit, you may even be lucky enough to see reindeer traipsing through the fields or seals flopping along the glacial rivers.
Extra Information to Know Before You Go
Icelandic is the official language of Iceland, but many people speak English. This is especially true for those working in the hospitality industry, so don’t get too overwhelmed trying to learn how to pronounce every single Icelandic phrase.
The local currency is the Icelandic Krona. Most places accept debit and credit cards, but you’ll want to have at least some cash on you at all times. Tipping isn’t customary or expected, but it also isn’t considered offensive. If you’re super pleased with a service, tipping 10 percent or rounding up to the nearest 1,000 Krona is acceptable.
If you’re from the United States, you don’t need to worry about getting a visa before your visit. Iceland is part of the Schengen agreement, meaning that US citizens can enter the country for up to 90 days for tourist purposes.
What Are You Waiting For?
Iceland is the perfect destination for every kind of traveler. This special country is home to some of the most dramatic natural landscapes on earth. In just one trip to this Nordic paradise, visitors can traipse through ice caves, snorkel between tectonic plates, and learn about the history of the Vikings.
For more information, check out the Iceland Tourism Board’s comprehensive website Inspired by Iceland. Before your trip, sign their pledge to travel responsibly and maintain the rugged wilderness of this country.
So what’re you waiting for? Pack your thermal and waterproof layers, choose your tour or bus passport, and see why the land of fire and ice has captivated the hearts of so many travelers before you.