Iceland in spring is when the island starts to wake up, slowly stretching and rubbing its eyes after a long, cold winter slumber.
Emphasis on slowly.
Because here, it doesn’t feel like the birds-singing, Disney-princess-twirling, flowers-everywhere kind of spring you might be used to. 😉
It’s colder, the weather is unpredictable, and you definitely need to plan carefully.
But don’t let that deter you.
Iceland is incredible this time of year!
While most travelers flock to Iceland in summer, spring lets you enjoy those shoulder season benefits, while still giving you more daylight to explore.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through what the spring weather is like, what to pack, where you can and can’t go, and a few resources to help you plan the perfect trip.
Let’s get into it!
When is Spring in Iceland?
The shoulder seasons in Iceland are really short.
Spring in Iceland spans April and May, when it eases into blossoms and greenery, and the landscapes become dotted with purple flowers.
It’s incredibly beautiful! 💚
Some years warm up faster than others, so always check the forecast and road conditions as your trip gets closer.
Choosing the best time to visit Iceland will differ for everyone, but if you want help figuring out what season matches your travel style, I highly suggest digging into this post.👇
➡️ READ: Best Time to Visit Iceland: How to Pick the Perfect Month + Season for Your Trip
Is Visiting Iceland in Spring Worth it?
Yes, spring is a fantastic time to visit Iceland!
Let’s take a look at a few reasons why:
Fewer crowds: April and May fall right into Iceland’s off-peak season, which means you’re going to see fewer tourists, especially around some of the major locations. Places like the Golden Circle and the South Coast feel noticeably quieter, making it easier to explore and get better photos. Just keep in mind that you won’t be getting those lush green landscapes until the end of May.
Cheaper prices: Again, quieter seasons mean you can save on flights, rentals, and accommodation. Yay for discounts!
Iceland starts to wake up: You’ll start to notice green grass and blooming flowers appearing across the landscape. The wildlife also starts to make a comeback with sheep roaming the countryside and puffins returning to the cliffs in April. It’s also when whale-watching season kicks off.
More Daylight hours: Longer daylight hours means more time to explore this incredible country!
Warmer weather: While it’s still not your average spring temperatures, it’s a welcome warming up from the long winter.
Check out this video to find out more about the pros and cons of Iceland spring travel.
Iceland in Spring: Daylight Hours
One of the best things about visiting Iceland in April and May is the amount of daylight you get.
After the cold, dark days of winter, when it felt like everyone was hibernating, the days finally start getting longer, giving you plenty more time to get out and explore.
The summer solstice is in mid-June, but until then, the daylight increases a little more each day.
In April, you can expect around 15 hours of daylight, and by May, it’s up to 18 hours!
Iceland Spring Weather
Spring in Iceland is a nice change from the harsh winter conditions, but it’s still not what you’d expect a typical spring to be.
Around the world, spring means flowers blooming and grass turning green, but in Iceland, it’s a bit different.
The flowers start to bloom in May, but the grass doesn’t really get lush until later in the month.
The weather in Iceland in spring is wildly unpredictable.
You can expect sun, rain, and snow sometimes all in one day!
Iceland Spring Temperature
The temperatures are milder than winter and will run between 32 – 50 degrees Fahrenheit (0 – 10 degrees Celsius).
It’s not going to feel particularly warm, especially if you’re coming from a place that has already started to heat up.
Figuring out your Iceland spring packing list can be tricky, this’ll clear it up for you.👇
What to Pack for Iceland in Spring
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: the way you pack for Iceland can really make or break your trip.
The weather can turn quickly, and you don’t want to be caught unprepared on a remote hike when it does.
(Here are a few suggestions for the best 👉 rain gear for Iceland, btw!)
When it comes to figuring out what to wear in Iceland in April and May, I suggest thermal layers and waterproof gear because it can still get very cold.
Even though it’s spring, there are days when you’ll need some extra protection for your head and ears with a hat and headband.
If you’re out hiking, surfaces could be slippery with melting snow, so sturdy hiking shoes are a must.
Oh, and if you’re looking for the best sweater you’ll ever own, trust me, there’s nothing like an authentic Icelandic Lopapeysa. It’ll keep you warm and is water-resistant. AND they’re so pretty!
Pro tip: With more daylight hours, especially towards mid-end of May, you NEED to bring an 👉 eyemask.
I must say, one of the biggest challenges of visiting Iceland in spring is bringing the right gear.
Snowstorms and rain showers can pop up unexpectedly, so you need to be ready for anything.
That’s exactly why I created my 👉 Iceland Packing Guide.
It includes seasonal checklists, weather tips, and even a shopping guide with my personal recommendations so you know exactly what you need… without overpacking.
Download your FREE PDF Iceland Packing Guide below.👇
Things to Do in Iceland in April + May
With some areas still closed in spring, it helps to know what’s actually open and what you can realistically do.
The later in the season you visit, the more things start opening up. (Just know the Highlands are still totally off-limits this time of year.)
The good news is that Iceland in spring gives you the best of both worlds. You can still do some winter-style tours and activities, but with way more daylight and warmer weather on your side.
With that in mind, here are some of the best things to do in Iceland in spring, starting with one of the country’s biggest showstoppers: waterfalls.
Visit the Waterfalls in Iceland
There are few things as impressive as a raging waterfall.
As the snow begins to melt, Iceland’s waterfalls become especially powerful in spring.
Goðafoss, Seljalandsfoss, and Skógafoss are easily accessible, while Dynjandi Waterfall and Brúarfoss are best seen from May onwards.
💡Did you know? Iceland has over 10,000 waterfalls! If you need a little help choosing the best ones and knowing when to visit them, you need to check this out.👇
➡️ READ: Chasing Waterfalls in Iceland: Discover The Top 10 Breathtaking Waterfalls In Iceland
Reynisfjara Beach
This black sand beach in South Iceland is incredibly popular and can get quite crowded over the summer months.
Try visiting Iceland in spring for a quieter experience… and photo ops that don’t require strategic cropping to remove other people!
Find out more about Reynisfjara Beach below.👇
➡️ READ: Why Reynisfjara Beach Is Worth the Hype – And How to Stay Safe While You’re There
Whale Watching
Spring is in the air, and whales are back again.
It’s so exciting seeing these incredible creatures!
One of the best places to spot them is in Húsavik, North Iceland, also known as the whale-watching capital of the country.
You’ll want to go with a reliable company, and the one I recommend is 👉 Gentle Giants Whale-Watching Tours.
If you book with them, be sure to use my discount code WHALESWITHAVIEW for 10% off on your tour.
➡️ READ: Epic Whale Watching in Iceland: Your Top 10 Tips, Tours, and More!
Puffins
Mid-April in Iceland brings with it the most adorable birds you’ve ever seen!
Some of the best places to see puffins in Iceland are Látrabjarg in the Westfjords (although keep in mind roads might be closed if the weather is acting up), Ingólfshöfði close to Skaftafell National Park, and Dyrhólaey in the south coast.
BUT if you’re spending most of your time in the capital, you can also take a boat ride to the nearby islands of Akurey and Lundey and spot them there. 👇
➡️ TAKE A TOUR: Puffin Express
Glacier Hikes
In April, you can still enjoy winter activities like glacier hikes.
Take a glacier hike tour to Sólheimajökull Glacier in South Iceland and visit Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls too, just remember your waterproof gear! 👇
➡️ TAKE A TOUR: South Coast & Glacier Hiking
Spring in Iceland: Festivals + Events
What better way to celebrate the thawing snow than with a bit of arts and culture?
Design March: This design festival showcases everything from fashion and furniture to architecture and food. The event takes place in Reykjavík over four days with exhibitions, events, and celebrations.
Aldrei Fór Ég Suður: A free music event in the small town of Ísafjörður in the Westfjords. It’s really popular, and if you’re in the area at the time, it’s definitely worth checking out.
AK Extreme: If you love extreme sports and are visiting Akureyri (North Iceland), then this snowboarding event is a great one to visit. There are competitions and a display of daring jumps!
International Day For The Icelandic Horse: If you didn’t know it yet, Icelandic horses are pretty special. So much so that if you’re visiting Iceland in May, there’s a day to celebrate them! Find out what the fuss is about in this blog post.👇
➡️ READ: Everything You Need to Know About Icelandic Horses
FAQs About Spring in Iceland
Here are a few answers to your most common questions about Iceland spring travel.
Is There Snow in Iceland in April and May?
Yes, there is still a possibility of snow in April; however, snowfall is unlikely in May. You might still come across snow-covered areas that are still thawing out the signs of winter.
How Cold is Iceland in April + May?
Spring can still get pretty cold, with temperatures ranging from 32 – 50 degrees Fahrenheit (0-10 degrees Celsius).
Is it Easy to Drive in Iceland in Spring?
Yes, driving in Iceland in spring can be easy, but it depends on the weather.
In April, roads are usually fine when conditions are good, but they can still be slippery, and snowstorms may cause closures.
That’s why I suggest renting a 4WD.
Driving in Iceland in May is no problem, especially if you’re sticking to the more popular/ touristy routes (Golden Circle and Ring Road). In that case, 2WD should be sufficient.
Traveling further North and to the Westfjords, there might still be lingering snow, or if you’re tackling the F-Roads, you’ll still need a 4WD.
Spring weather in Iceland is unpredictable, so if you’re looking for a reliable company to rent from, I always recommend Blue Car Rental.
You’ll get all insurance included, 24/7 roadside assistance, and cars fully geared for Icelandic roads.
They even have an easy online check-in process with key box pickup, so you won’t waste any time waiting in lines.
They’re giving you 5% OFF your total rental price automatically applied at checkout when you use my 👉 VIP link.
No code needed!
Are all Areas of Iceland Accessible in Spring?
Certain areas of the country might still be completely inaccessible, especially in April, but most of Iceland will be open by May.
Popular regions like the South Coast, Golden Circle, Reykjavík, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, are accessible.
The Westfjörds typically begin to open by April, but getting there can still be tricky, as some roads may remain closed depending on conditions.
Can you See the Northern Lights in April + May?
If you’re in Iceland at the start of April, you might just catch them. After mid-April, your chances drop, and by May, with daylight stretching endlessly, it’s just not dark enough for the aurora.
But don’t fret my friend, there is still plenty to do!
Iceland in spring is a time of renewal and adventure.
The landscapes are waking up, wildlife is returning, and the long daylight hours give you plenty of time to explore. There’s so much to love about a spring trip to Iceland.
An In-Depth Look at Each Season in Iceland
Wondering what each season in Iceland is like? These ultimate guides break down exactly what to expect.
👉 Summer: Ready for Summer in Iceland? Unlimited Hours to Explore, Amazing Sites & More
👉 Fall: Fall in Iceland: Why This Underrated Season Might Be the Best Time to Visit
👉 Winter: Iceland in Winter: Must-See Attractions, Driving, Weather, Packing And MORE
In my humble opinion, Iceland is amazing no matter the season! These guides will just help you figure out what kind of adventure suits you best.
Ready to Plan Your Trip but Not Sure Where to Start?
I’m sure by now you’ve realized that Iceland isn’t your typical tourist destination.
A trip here takes some thoughtful planning if you want everything to go off without a hitch.
Over more than a decade of living in and traveling around Iceland, I’ve learned A LOT, and created the guides I could only dream of having when I first visited this incredible place!
If you’re tired of digging through Google, unsure if the info you find is accurate or up to date, then you need to check out my 👉 Iceland Guidebooks + Maps.
Not to blow my own horn, but they’re kind of a big deal. 😉 And with hundreds of five-star reviews, plenty of people agree!
So, what makes my guides so special?
The PDF guides are region-specific and packed with must-see sites and hidden gems you might never find on your own.
You’ll get insider tips that’ll help you plan your perfect trip.
There are exclusive discounts on rentals and tours, plus advice on everything from travel documents to photography tips.
And then there’s the digital map….
With over 500 pinned locations, from restaurants and gas stations to those hidden gems I mentioned, you’ll always know exactly where to go.
One thing’s for sure: Iceland in spring will definitely keep you on your toes, but it’s also one of the most magical, quiet, and adventure-filled times to visit.
Happy Planning!
