missbridgett

Hello Fellow Travelers,

I am very conflicted on when to travel to Iceland... I'd LIKE to go in October but understand most people seem to go in either the summer for optimal outdoors/scenery activities and longer periods of daylight, or in the winter for the Northern Lights. I wondered if anyone can offer their feedback for what is best. Could we have a nice trip in October or is it really best to wait for the more ideal summer (or winter) months?? When's the best time to go?

Lots of thanks in advance!

Jay_G

Any time is good to go to Iceland honestly. I've been in summer, winter and early November and it was throughly enjoyable on all occasions.

With the right clothing, nothing should stop you from doing what you want to. You might be a bit damp at the end of the day, but it's nothing a tumble drier and warm shower can't fix.

The worst weather I experienced there was in November, with horizontal rain and incredible winds, but for me it just added to the experience. It also wasn't like that the whole time and there were some pleasant days mixed in, so just make sure you're prepared and it'll be fine.

You say you'd like to go in October, so I'd say to go then. If you can push it to early November (to coincide with the Airwaves festival) you'd have an even better time as Reykjavik will be full of international bands and music fans, adding yet another dimension to the city.

Hope this helps.

StCirq

I would agree with Jay_G. Anytime is a good time to go to Iceland. You can never count on the weather, if that's what your question is really about, but that is one of the fascinating aspects of the country. The people there have acclimated to weather of all kinds and manage to have a vibrant culture year-round despite it. Go when you can go. Bring cold-weather and rain gear no matter what time of year you go.

Guenmai

How cold are we talking about in the summer, like in June? I've been wanting to go for some decades, but stay in Copenhagen and just can't seem to just take a little trip up to Iceland. My best friend has gone, several times, and is one who hates the cold, but survived it although she's only gone in November.

Happy Travels!

Jay_G

I can't speak for June, but was there once in July and it was a similar temperature to an Autumn day in England (yes, I'm aware how little that helps).

It wasn't cold per se, but during most days a thin jumper or light jacket was needed and in the evenings both would be required. It was perfectly pleasant for strolling about in and visiting the sights, but wouldn't be what most people would think of when mentioning the word "summer".

Guenmai, I'd say bite the bullet and go. It's not going to be cold, just not particularly hot either...

ticino

I have been to Iceland during the summer and it was very cold! I thought coming from Sweden I wouldn't notice but it was a different kind of cold because it was humid and windy. It was a very nice experience but I was very happy to leave, the atmosphere was also quite gloomy because of their economic collapse but that also made it extra interesting. More interesting that the landscape actually, locals were very willing to talk about it. They drink a lot too.

Looking back, I wish we had waited to get the tickets until we knew we'd get ok weather. If I ever go back, I'd check when it is the least windy and rains less rather than cold or dark.

missbridgett

Just wanted to post a quick thank you to all who replied above! I truly appreciate your feedback and can't wait to start booking. It sounds like Iceland is wonderful for different reasons throughout all seasons, which is great news. Especially love the suggestion of the November music festival... I think we may try to attend. Thanks again, everyone! And happy travels!