Autumn in Iceland Guide

Traveling During Autumn: Great Time To Visit Iceland

Autumn in Iceland is a beautiful time of year. The days become shorter and cooler, and the landscape is transformed into a tapestry of orange, yellow, and red as the leaves change color. The air is fresh and crisp, and the daylight hours are still long enough to enjoy a range of outdoor activities.

During this time of year, the average temperature in Iceland ranges from about 41 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit (5 to 10 degrees Celsius), although it can get colder at higher elevations and closer to the coast. Rain is common, especially in the northern and western parts of the country, so it’s a good idea to pack rain gear and warm, waterproof clothing.

Despite the cooler temperatures and rain, autumn is a great time to visit Iceland. The crowds of tourists that visit during the summer months have thinned out, so it’s easier to find accommodation and enjoy the country’s natural beauty without the crowds.

There are also many festivals and events held throughout the country during the autumn months, including the Reykjavik International Film Festival, the Reykjavik Culture Night, and the Northern Lights Music Festival.

What Are Iceland’s Autumn Months?

In Iceland, autumn is typically considered to be the months of September, October, and November.

The weather during these months is characterized by cooler temperatures and increased rainfall, as well as shorter days and longer nights. The leaves on the trees also begin to change color, creating a beautiful tapestry of orange, yellow, and red across the landscape.

Despite the cooler weather, autumn is a great time to visit Iceland. The crowds of tourists that visit during the summer months have thinned out, making it easier to find accommodation and enjoy the country’s natural beauty without the crowds.

There are also many festivals and events held throughout the country during the autumn months, including the Reykjavik International Film Festival, the Reykjavik Culture Night, and the Northern Lights Music Festival.

Packing For Iceland’s Autumn Months

If you’re planning to visit Iceland during the autumn months, it’s important to pack appropriately to ensure that you stay warm and comfortable during your trip. Some items you may want to consider packing include:

Warm, Waterproof Clothing

Autumn in Iceland can be quite wet and chilly, so it’s important to pack clothes that will keep you warm and dry. This might include a rain jacket, rain pants, warm layers (such as thermal tops and bottoms, fleece, or wool), and a good pair of waterproof boots.

A Warm Hat, Gloves & Scarf

The wind can be quite cold in Iceland during the autumn months, so it’s a good idea to pack a warm hat, gloves, and scarf to keep your head, hands, and neck warm.

Sunglasses & Sunscreen

Even though the days are shorter in autumn, the sun can still be quite strong in Iceland, especially at higher elevations. Pack sunglasses and sunscreen to protect your eyes and skin.

Swimwear

Iceland is home to many geothermal pools and hot springs, which are popular tourist attractions. Pack a swimsuit so you can enjoy a relaxing soak in a warm pool during your trip.

Camera Or Your Phone

Autumn is a beautiful time of year in Iceland, with the leaves changing color and the Northern Lights (Aurora borealis) becoming visible in the night sky. Pack a camera so you can capture all of the beautiful sights you’ll see during your trip.

Comfortable Shoes

You’ll likely be doing a lot of walking during your trip to Iceland, so be sure to pack a comfortable pair of shoes that you can wear for long periods of time.

Autumn Activities In Iceland

There are many beautiful places to visit in Iceland during the autumn months, including:

Reykjavik

Iceland’s capital city is a great place to visit any time of year, but it’s especially beautiful in the autumn when the leaves change color. The city is home to many museums, galleries, and cultural attractions, as well as excellent restaurants, bars, and cafes.

The Golden Circle

This popular tourist route takes you to some of the most iconic natural attractions in Iceland, including the Geysir geothermal area, the Gullfoss waterfall, and the Thingvellir National Park. The autumn months are a great time to visit because the crowds are smaller and the colors of the trees are changing.

The Northern Lights

Autumn is a great time to see the Northern Lights (Aurora borealis) in Iceland, as the nights are long and the sky is clear. Head to a location away from the city lights to get the best view of this natural wonder.

The South Coast

The South Coast of Iceland is home to many beautiful waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches. The cooler temperatures and rain of autumn can make this region even more dramatic and beautiful.

The East Fjords

The East Fjords are a less-visited part of Iceland, but they offer stunning views of the ocean, mountains, and forests. The autumn months are a great time to visit, as the crowds are smaller and the colors of the trees are changing.

Our Final Words

No matter where you go in Iceland during the autumn months, be sure to pack warm, waterproof clothing and comfortable shoes so you can enjoy all that the country has to offer.

If you fancy visiting Iceland in Summer during the warmer months, be prepared for longer lines, scarce accommodation & higher airplane/travel costs!