Iceland in Spring: What to Expect & Best Things to Do (2025)

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Considering a visit to Iceland in spring? 

As the winter snow and ice melt away, Iceland transforms. From cascading waterfalls to blooming wildflowers and the haunting greens of the aurora borealis, there is no shortage of enchanting sights that beckon visitors to Iceland in spring. 

Iceland will always be one of my favorite vacation destinations because it’s where I saw the Northern Lights for the first time. Watching green lights dance across the skies of Saudakrokur in the north of Iceland was an absolutely magical – and addictive – experience.

Since that first trip, I’ve visited Iceland again for more Aurora hunting. Read on to discover my recommendations for the best things to see and do in Iceland in spring, including what to pack and typical spring weather in Iceland. 

Planning a trip? Use my favorite resources:

Visiting Iceland in Spring 

To start, here are some of the basics about springtime in Iceland. 

When is spring in Iceland? 

Spring in Iceland refers to the months of April and May. 

What’s the weather like in spring in Iceland?

The weather within Iceland varies depending on precise location. Generally, the more north you go, the colder it is. 

On average, spring weather in Iceland is: 

  • March: 30° to 38° F (-1° to 3° C) 
  • April: 34° to 43° F (1° to 6° C)
  • May: 40° to 48° F (4° to 9° C) 

Reasons to Visit Iceland in Spring 

Wondering why springtime is the perfect season for a trip to Iceland? Read on: 

Mild Weather

Compared to its freezing winter counterpart, spring in Iceland brings milder temperatures.

With average temperatures ranging from 37°F(3°C) to 50°F (10°C) , exploring the outdoors becomes more enjoyable without having to wrap up in multiple layers of clothing.

Not to mention, you won’t have to pack a pair of crampons in your luggage to avoid slipping on thick ice! 

Spring is the perfect time for outdoor activities, from horseback riding to scenic cycling to landscape photography.

Less Crowds

Most tourists flock to Iceland during summer months. While the Ring Road can get very crowded in summer, as can downtown Reykjavik, spring is relatively uncrowded. And if you are really lucky, you may even see the Northern Lights in early spring! 

Vibrant Nature Scenery

As snow melts off the lava rocks and mountains, it reveals lush green valleys dotted with vibrant wildflowers.

Snow and glacier melt feeds into Iceland’s famous waterfalls. Whether you like to hike in nature or merely appreciate the view, you won’t want to miss this.

Puffin Viewing

The puffins arrive in Iceland in late April or May. If you visit late in spring, you may be able to spot them. During the day, the puffins are out flying and fishing.

While you might come across them on an Iceland whale watch, you’ll have better luck viewing them from the shores in the evening.

The best places in Iceland to view the puffins are the Birding Trail of North Iceland, Dyrhólaey in South Iceland (pictured below), and the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve in the remote Westfjords. 

👉 Book a Small-Group Puffin Watching Tour 

Best Things to do in Iceland in Spring

As you plan your itinerary, keep these activities in mind:

Take a Ring Road Tour 

A self-drive Ring Road tour is the classic way to see Iceland. While you can drive the Ring Road any time of year, spring offers milder weather than winter.

More remote parts of the country like the Westfjords become accessible once more, and you’re less likely to experience unexpected road closures due to snowstorms. 

If you don’t feel comfortable taking the self-driving approach, join a small group Ring Road tour instead. You can choose the duration of your experience, and trust the navigation of a local guide.

Visit the Golden Circle

geysir in Iceland

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s second most famous tourist attraction – after the Blue Lagoon. 

You can find many Golden Circle tours based in Reykjavik. But if you’re exploring Iceland by car, the self-drive approach allows you to go at your own pace and spend as much (or as little) time appreciating nature, geysers, waterfalls and wildlife as you want. 

Golden Circle tours run through Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in historical significance and natural beauty. As you drive, you can marvel at the rocky landscape and plumes of smoke rising from the earth – evidence of geothermal activity. 

Visit Geysir (which all geysers are named for). Take in Gullfoss, a massive waterfall that is just beginning to thaw from its deep winter freeze during April and May. 

There is so much to see and do in Þingvellir, including scuba diving or snorkeling between two continental plates at Silfra Fissure. Silfra’s water is constant year round at 35° to 39° F (2° to 4° C), but don’t worry.

The tour operator will provide warm wetsuits for the excursion. And you can always bring hot pockets for your hands and feet, like I did! 

👉 Book the Golden Circle Classic Day Trip

Chase Waterfalls

Black sand beach in Iceland

Spring is an ideal time to witness Iceland’s numerous cascading waterfalls at their mightiest. Be mesmerized by iconic falls like Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss as they wake from their wintry deep freeze and a trickle thaws into a thunderous flood.  

If you’re exploring Iceland’s south coast, this south Iceland road trip itinerary takes you past all the best waterfalls on your way to the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara – a prime spot for puffin viewing! 

Go Horseback Riding 

Icelandic horse

One of the best ways to explore Iceland’s landscape is on horseback. Iceland is full of horse farms and many offer riding tours on Icelandic horses. A horseback riding excursion will take you through Iceland’s interior.

Pass over lava fields, wind your way through valleys as they come alive with springtime green and get a new perspective on Iceland’s famous waterfalls by horseback.

Or visit Skaftafell Vatnajökull National Park in the south of Iceland to ride horses across Iceland’s highest mountain. 

Soak in Geothermal Spas

Don’t miss out on one of Iceland’s most cherished traditions – soaking in geothermal hot springs! Head to places like Blue Lagoon or Mývatn Nature Baths to rejuvenate mind and body amid surreal surroundings of lava fields.

The Blue Lagoon is a world-famous geothermal spa. Since it’s near Iceland’s international airport, travelers often like to visit it on their way to or from the airport. 

The Blue Lagoon can get very crowded. Timed reservations are essential and even so, personal space is scarce. If you prefer a geothermal spa that feels more natural and secluded, consider the new Sky Lagoon near Reykjavik or Mývatn Nature Baths in north Iceland. 

Mývatn offers three separate geothermal pools, a sauna, a swim-up bar and an onsite restaurant that sells hot meals, snacks, and bread baked in a geothermal bakery. 

Mývatn can get crowded in the summer months when a majority of tourists visit Iceland. By visiting Iceland in the spring, you can enjoy the geothermal pools without the crowds. Pre-book tickets online to make the most of your Mývatn experience. 

If you’re planning on visiting Mývatn, make a day of it by exploring the nearby geothermal sites, turf volcanoes, lava fields and more. 

Go Whale Watching 

Many whale species migrate to warmer waters during the winter months. Spring is when the whales start to return to Iceland. If you love seeing orcas, humpbacks and other whales in the wild, book a whale watching tour in Iceland in spring. 

Important Things to Know About Visiting Iceland in Spring

waterfall in Iceland

Here are some additional factors to consider when planning a springtime visit to Iceland. 

Prices are cheaper

Iceland is notoriously expensive. Since spring is considered off-season, hotels and car rentals tend to be a bit cheaper.

Staples like food and gas prices won’t have seasonal price swings, so you’ll need to factor those costs into account when planning your trip. But if you are on a budget, spring is definitely the best time to visit Iceland. 

Days are normal length

Iceland has very short days in winter and very long days in summer, when the sun doesn’t set below the horizon. In April, days are relatively normal length, with 8 to 11 hours of light. By late May, Iceland has over 20 hours of daylight. 

By visiting Iceland in spring, you’ll be able to see and do more than late in fall or winter, when it’s dark by 3 or 4 pm. 

Spring is festival season 

As the weather warms and days grow longer, Icelanders enjoy traditional holidays and festivals. From March to May, events like Food and Fun, DesignMarch, and Reykjavik Blues Festival welcome tourists. 

And while April is technically spring, Icelanders celebrate the first day of summer in late April. Sumardagurinn fyrsti, as the national holiday is called, calls for small-town parades, brass bands and traditional Icelandic pancakes, served with whipped cream and jam. 

It may seem odd to celebrate summer in April, given the chilly temperatures. But the tradition dates back to Iceland’s Settlement period.

Iceland’s settlers believed there were only two seasons – summer and winter. They believed summer started in late April and ran through to October

Spring weather can be unpredictable 

While spring in Iceland brings longer days with more sunlight, temperatures are still chilly. Weather can shift suddenly between rain, wind, sun and even snow.

Layers are key. Keep reading for a recommended packing list for Iceland in spring. 

What to Wear in Iceland in Spring

Iceland’s spring weather tends to be cold and windy. The later in spring you go, the warmer temperatures and the more sun and daylight you will experience.

This suggested packing list will help you stay comfortable in Iceland in spring.. Use it as a guide and always double check the weather for your exact travel dates before you pack!  

What to Pack for Iceland in Spring

Iceland is expensive. Plan to take everything you need with you rather than hoping to buy something there because you ran out or forgot it. 

  • Reusable water bottle 
  • Universal travel adaptor, since Iceland uses European plugs
  • Plenty of snacks – because there aren’t a lot of options in between towns on a Ring Road journey through Iceland 
  • Head net if you’re visiting Mývatn in May, when flies are everywhere
  • Camera
  • Backup camera batteries, since they drain faster in chilly weather
  • Tripod and other camera essentials for Northern Lights photography if you’re visiting in April 
  • Phone (essential for navigation)
  • Day bag for traveling 
  • Foldable trekking poles since terrain can be wet, muddy and icy 
  • Headlamp or mini flashlight if you’re planning to camp or van life it through Iceland, so you can see your way to the bathroom at night 

This list is a starting point for what to pack for a spring vacation in Iceland. In addition to what’s listed here, take any personal care products and medication you need. 

Where to Stay in Iceland

As you plan your trip, choosing where to stay is just as important as planning your activities. Here are some recommended options: 

🏨 Luxury Recommendation: The Reykjavik EDITION

Hallgrimskirkja church in Iceland

This newer, 5-star hotel has earned its spot on multiple ‘best hotels of Iceland’ lists and with good reason.

Located in the very heart of Reykjavik, this property features harbor views, onsite restaurant and bar, and gorgeous design. Opt for a room with a terrace or harbor view for the ultimate experience. 

👉 Check Prices & Availability 

🏨 Mid-Range Recommendation: Thingholt by Center Hotels

Reykjavik street

The centrally located Thingholt by Center Hotels offers a modern, boutique-like atmosphere. Rooms are stylish and comfortable, and the staff are helpful in arranging excursions. The onsite restaurant offers both Icelandic and international cuisine. 

👉 Check Prices & Availability 

🏨 Budget Recommendation: Hotel Aska

Reykjavik street lined with colorful buildings

A 3-star property, Hotel Aska combines affordability with convenience. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the hotel is within walking distance to downtown Reykjavik. 

👉 Check Prices & Availability 

FAQ: Iceland in Spring

Some commonly asked questions when planning to visit Iceland in spring include:

Can you see the Northern Lights in spring in Iceland?

It depends. While the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are mostly associated with winter months, you may catch glimpses of them until late April or even early May.

You can only see them when it’s dark out. As days grow longer in spring, there is less of a chance to spot the elusive auroras. 

Is March or April better to go to Iceland? 

March is better if you want to see the Northern Lights. April is better if you prefer longer days and (slightly) warmer weather. 

What is there to do in Iceland in Spring? 

Top activities for visiting Iceland in spring include walking/hiking, horseback riding, Northern Lights viewing, lagoon visits, wildlife watching and spring festivals. You can also explore Icelandic culture through the country’s art and history museums. 

How cold is Iceland in the spring? 

Temperatures are in the 30s to 40s F. You’ll want to stay prepared for a variety of weather conditions and pack warm layers.

Final Thoughts: Visiting Iceland in Spring

Though the weather can still be temperamental during April and May, the benefits of visiting Iceland in spring outweigh any downsides. Spring means fewer crowds, lower prices on hotels, car rentals and airfare, and unique festivals happening in Reykjavik and beyond. 

Lengthening days mean more light and LGBTQ travel blog Queer Adventurers, which focuses on outdoor adventure travel for LGBTQ folks. Lindsey has been to Iceland twice and enjoys helping other folks plan their Iceland vacations. Based in the Hudson Valley, Lindsey has been to 45 states (so far) and traveled internationally in Europe, Southeast Asia, the Middle East and elsewhere.