Iceland in the Fall: Complete Guide and Reasons to Visit in Autumn (2024)
Considering a visit to Iceland in the fall?
Fall is the perfect time to visit the incredible country of Iceland! Whether you want to see nature’s greatest phenomena, stunning waterfalls or quaint cities, Iceland in the fall is the destination for you.
As the weather cools and summer crowds start to dissipate, fall becomes an idyllic time for you to experience Iceland’s diverse landscapes at their absolute best.
You’ll feel like you’re actually on a winter break in Iceland in the fall as temperatures drop to the point where warm coats and hot drinks are definitely needed.
But what could be better than warming up in a cozy café with a cup of steaming hot chocolate after a long day of exploring? Plus, in fall the daylight hours are much longer than in the winter, so you get to experience the cooler side of Iceland but still with plenty of daylight as the backdrop for your adventures.
Things to Know About Visiting Iceland in the Fall
As you prepare for your Iceland trip you might be wondering:
Is Iceland good in the fall?
Yes! Iceland is amazing in the fall. The cooler weather means you experience the country the way you should, wrapped up in coats, hats and scarves. But at the same time, it’s not too icy to see all the incredible sights Iceland has to offer.
And, from September onwards you’ll be able to witness the breathtaking Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights), a sight that’s on so many travelers’ bucket lists.
What is Iceland like in Autumn?
Iceland is beautiful in Autumn. The autumnal colors of yellow, orange and brown only add to Iceland’s pre-existing color palette across the country. From pink skies to icy blue glaciers, you’ll be able to see all the sights against fall foliage.
Although you’d miss the ‘midnight sun,’ which occurs in summer, you’ll have the perfect balance of daylight hours and darkness.
How cold is Iceland in the fall?
Iceland is cold in the fall, but gets even colder in winter. Make sure to pack warm clothes, especially if you’re planning on having long days outside exploring. Even if temperatures appear mild, the wind can make it feel much cooler in reality, so don’t be deceived.
The average high temperature in September is 10°C (50°F) and the average low is 6°C (43°F).
In October, the average high is 7°C (45°F) and the average low is 2°C (36°F). In November, the average high is 4°C (40°F) and the average low is -1°C (30°F).
Top Reasons to Visit Iceland in the Fall
Fall really is a great time to visit Iceland, but why? Let’s get into some of the top reasons:
The perfect balance of daylight and darkness
Because Iceland is so far North, the daylight hours vary massively throughout the year. For example, in summer, there is a period when the sun never fully sets, so the sky stays lit all night.
In contrast, during December and January there are sometimes only 4 hours of daylight, and 20 hours of darkness!
In the fall, you can get between 8-14 hours of daylight. Note that how much daylight you can expect decreases as it gets to be later in the season.
While the summertime Midnight Sun is incredible to witness, having some darkness means that you have a chance to see the Northern Lights. These are best visible from September-March, so fall is a peak time to see them.
Generally, it’s a good idea to head out of the cities with light pollution into the countryside for your best chance at spotting this amazing natural phenomenon.
Rather than going Aurora Borealis hunting on your own, taking a Northern Lights tour led by a local expert gives you the best chance at a glance.
Book the tour for the front-end of your trip, because in case you don’t happen to see them on your first night out, most tour companies will allow you a second chance the following night for free!
Visiting in fall gives you the opportunity to see the Northern Lights, without sacrificing your daylight hours to see the other sights in the country. You’ll also still have time to explore the capital city, Reykjavik, in daylight, and see natural wonders like the Skogafoss waterfall or Geysers erupting.
Fewer tourists
In summer, Iceland attracts lots of tourists, as it’s the season where the weather is the warmest and the most predictable. Plus, with the Midnight Sun and extended time to see the sights of the country, summer is a popular time to visit and tourists flock to Iceland from all over the world.
There are also lots of tourists visiting the country for a festive winter break in December, to see Reykjavik’s Christmas Markets and traditions.
High season for tourism means that things get booked up a lot more quickly, prices of accommodation, flights and excursions can inflate, and crowds are everywhere, giving you less space to explore.
Iceland in the fall sees far fewer tourists. This means that it can be much cheaper for you to visit this time of year, and you may have a more authentic experience as you’ll likely see more locals than tourists. You’ll also be able to go on more excursions and book your accommodation closer to the time of your visit.
Plus, you’ll have far more space near the main sights to wander around, get closer to the attractions and snap pictures without lots of strangers blocking your view!
Chilly but not freezing weather
In my opinion, Iceland is meant to be explored in the cold. The clue is in the name itself – Iceland! But, Iceland’s actual winter weather can be bitterly cold. When we visited in December, the temperatures got down to a piercing -12°C (10°F).
And although nothing could ruin the amazing experience of seeing the beautiful national parks, waterfalls and beaches that we witnessed, it definitely makes it harder to focus on the beauty around you when your whole body is trembling with the cold.
By visiting in fall, you’re able to visit Iceland in crisp yet comfortable weather, wrap up warm and have an authentic experience, without feeling like you’re about to get hypothermia if you stay outside another minute.
You’ll still appreciate cozying up with your hot drinks. We recommend trying a Mocha (sometimes called a Swissmocha) in Iceland. They’re served most places and resemble a thick, rich hot chocolate with a hit of espresso!
Things to do in Iceland in the Fall
Once you’ve decided that Iceland is worth visiting in the fall, it’s time to plan your itinerary! Here are some top things to do in Iceland in the fall:
Hunt for the Northern Lights
As mentioned earlier, fall is a brilliant time to hunt for Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) as you have plenty of hours of darkness and a good chance of seeing them. Of course, it all depends on the weather, light pollution and the Aurora forecast (which you can check online when it gets closer to your trip).
If you manage to see them, the Northern Lights will absolutely take your breath away. If you’re staying in Reykjavik, there are plenty of tours that will take you to the best spots away from the brightness of the city.
Or, if you’re hiring a car, you can drive yourself away from light pollution and find a nice secluded spot. In the worst case scenario, if you don’t see the Northern Lights, you’ll be able to do some stargazing in a stunning setting.
👉 Click here to book your Northern Lights Tour
Take a Golden Circle tour
The Golden Circle is the most popular tourist route in Iceland, and for good reason! It’s easy to access from Reykjavik and can be completed slowly over several days, stopping at other sights on the way, or all in one day if you don’t have much time.
Again, if you’re staying in Reykjavik, there are lots of tours that will take you around the Golden Circle in one day, sometimes also including other sights like the Blue Lagoon or other Geothermal spas.
The Golden Circle is made up of 3 main attractions: Gullfoss, Geysir and Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park. Gullfoss is a huge, stunning waterfall which can be viewed from above, or from the base of the falls.
Geysir is where you’ll find one of the most active geysers in Iceland, which erupts every few minutes, sending a rush of steam up to 30m in the air!
And Þingvellir National Park covers an area of over 92 square miles, and here you can see the gap between 2 tectonic plates. You can even go snorkeling between them, in Silfra Fissure!
👉 Click here to book a Golden Circle Tour
Explore Reykjavik
Reykjavik is often forgotten about when tourists visit Iceland, and we can understand why. Why spend lots of time in a city when you could be visiting waterfalls, villages or glaciers?
But Reykjavik really is worth a visit, even if it’s just for a day. The city’s streets are lined with independent shops, cafes and restaurants.
The whole city is very compact, and feels extremely cozy. We instantly felt at home when we first arrived here, especially since the locals are so friendly.
There is so much to do in this city, from tasting local soups and seafood, visiting the chapel or even a guided food walking tour to get to know the city through its cuisine.
👉 Click here to book a Reykjavik Food Walk
(more than 10k 5-star reviews!)
Take a trip around the South Coast
We took a fantastic day trip around the South Coast of Iceland, visiting Skogafoss, Seljalandsfoss, the black sand beaches and a beautiful glacier.
They really all are sights not to be missed, especially Seljalandsfoss, which is a cascading waterfall that you can actually walk behind!
There are lots of tours around the South Coast that you can take from Reykjavik, or you could drive yourself around and take as much time as you like at each attraction.
👉 Click here to book a trip around the South Coast
Soak in Thermal Hot Springs
The air’s cool, but you’re soaking in warm, mineral-packed waters. The surroundings are painted in autumn hues—reds, yellows, and oranges—as you soak up the goodness. Iceland’s geothermal scene is a chance to recharge in sync with the fall vibes.
Of course, there’s the famous Blue Lagoon. But there are plenty others as well including Secret Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, GeoSea, Forest Lagoon and more. Look into what options are around depending on what part of Iceland you plan to stay in.
👉 Click here to book Sky Lagoon Thermal Spa Experience
Hit the Hiking Trails
Hiking in Iceland in the fall isn’t just about the exercise; it’s a gritty, real-deal experience and a chance to get up close and personal with the beauty the country has to offer.
One hike to consider is the Skogar to Thorsmork hike which is one of the must-dos for hiking enthusiasts.
Attend a Festival
Visiting Iceland in the fall gives you the unique opportunity to attend some key, local festivals.
Two in particular that take place this time of year are the Iceland Airwaves Music Festival (in November) and the Reykjavik International Film Festival (end of September into early October).
If you’re going to be in Iceland during these times, take the chance to explore these cultural events alongside the locals.
Whale Watching
Another great activity to add to your fall itinerary for Iceland is whale watching. As summer crowds dwindle, cooler temperatures bring a different kind of marine spectacle.
The North Atlantic becomes a haven for various whale species, including humpbacks and orcas, making it an optimal time for sightings.
Whale watching season in Iceland typically Iceland in Spring: What to Expect & Best Things to Do (2024)“>runs from April through to early October (note that June, July and August are the peak of the season). So, hop on a boat and witness these majestic creatures against the scenic Icelandic coastline.
👉 Click here to book your Whale Watching Excursion
Places to Visit in Iceland in Autumn
Reykjavik
Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland and a lovely place to stroll through. You’ll find colorful streets and murals, unique architecture and countless charming shops.
The weather is chilly, but there are cozy cafes and bakeries on every corner for a coffee and a pastry to warm you through. We recommend trying an Icelandic pastry, such as the happy marriage cake, from a local bakery.
Vík
Vík is a seafront village in Iceland close to the famous black sand beaches. It’s much smaller and more remote than Reykjavik, but still a great option for an area to visit in the fall.
Videy
When fall graces Viday Iceland, the Imagine Peace Tower takes center stage. As the season ushers in cooler nights, Yoko Ono’s illuminated tribute to John Lennon pierces the darkness, casting a beam of light into the Arctic sky.
While the monument is of course there to see all year, it is only lit between October 9 (Lennon’s birth) and December 8 (his passing).
It’s more than a monument; it’s a symbol of peace and hope. The fall setting adds a touch of mystique to the experience, with the dancing lights contrasting against the autumn night.
So, for a poignant and visually captivating encounter with a powerful message, the Imagine Peace Tower in fall is a must-see in Viday.
A visit to the Island of Viday puts you up close to the monument itself, but you can see its beam of light shooting up into the sky from Reykjavik, too.
Keflavik
In fall, Keflavik hosts the Night of Light festival during the first weekend of September, turning the town into a vibrant display of colors after dark. As daylight shortens, the festival lights up the night, creating a lively atmosphere.
It’s not just about the visuals; it’s a community celebration that adds warmth to the autumn air. For a festive and culturally rich experience during your Icelandic trip, consider visiting Keflavik to join in on the Night of Light celebrations alongside a dazzling nighttime display.
Where to Stay in Iceland in the Fall
There are plenty of great accommodation options at various price points to consider for your Iceland visit:
🏨 Luxury: The Retreat at Blue Lagoon
Yes, you read that right! You can stay at a retreat at the Blue Lagoon in Iceland, a unique experience. There are rooms and suites available with a view of the lagoon itself, spa packages and additional luxury amenities to help make your stay a memorable one.
🏨 Mid-Range: Hotel Vera
Hotel Vera is perfectly located in the center of Reykjavik, only a 2-minute walk from one of the major tour bus stops and on the city’s main shopping street.
This is where we stayed, and the studios were very modern and have everything you need for a stay in Iceland. Every room has a kitchenette, private bathroom, heating and all the utensils you need.
🏨 Budget: Loft – HI Hostel
Is budget travel really even possible in Iceland? This country is pricey, but there are ways to cut your costs. One of these ways is by staying in a Hostel, such as this one, Loft.
It’s central to Reykjavik so you can use it as a base to explore the South Coast and Golden Circle, and it gets great reviews too.
What to Pack for Iceland in the Fall
It’s important to pack well to ensure your comfort during your visit to Iceland in the fall:
- A warm, waterproof coat: The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, and a waterproof coat helps you be better prepared for anything
- Thermal layers: The weather may not reach ridiculously low temperatures in the fall, but spending lots of time outdoors and in the wind can mean you get very cold. Layer up to keep warm.
- Hat, scarf and gloves: Necessary accessories for keeping the cold at bay.
- A phone or camera: You’ll definitely want to get pictures of the incredible sights you’ll see on this trip.
- A good bank card or Icelandic Krona: You’ll definitely be spending on your trip to Iceland, so either convert some currency or ensure your card won’t charge ridiculously high fees to spend abroad.
What to Expect When Driving in Iceland in the Fall
You should be totally fine to drive yourself around in Iceland in the fall, but if you’re not confident we’d recommend going on guided bus tours or private tours instead.
Iceland’s main roads are quiet and easy to navigate, but once you leave these they can potentially become icy as temperatures drop.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Iceland in the Fall
In conclusion, Iceland is a great destination for your next fall trip, and checks all the boxes for a perfect vacation. Whether you’re interested in nature or city sights, Iceland will certainly have something to offer.
Visiting Iceland in the fall gives you the opportunity to see as many sights as you can in the extended daylight hours, without missing out on evening sights like the Northern Lights.
Plus, it’s out of Iceland’s high season for tourism, so you should find reduced prices and much fewer crowds at the major attractions, which is an added bonus.
Author bio: Jess Touhig is a travel expert, who owns the travel website Sightseekr along with her best friend Owen. Despite their young age, together, they have traveled widely across Europe and beyond. Sightseekr is a website packed full of completely honest travel inspiration and advice.
