We recently took an amazing Iceland vacation. In these posts, we tell you everything you need to know, including when is the best time to visit Iceland.
We will be writing several posts to cover it all: Volcanoes, Glaciers, Hiking, Hot Spring Spas, Geysers, Friendly people, Very LGBTQ-welcoming, Whale-watching, Puffins, and more!
When To Visit Iceland
Most people visit in June, July, or August when the weather is best and there is sunlight almost 24 hours a day. The shoulder seasons (May and September) are delightful, and it is less crowded. We went in late May and loved it. We think May is the best time to visit Iceland.
Northern Lights
If your goal is to see the Northern Lights, you should go in the winter months. You cannot see the Aurora Borealis in the summer due to the sunlight. There are many tour options for seeing the Northern Lights. Your chances of seeing them are excellent as you are at the Arctic Circle but you MUST go during the winter months. This means September through April, but October through March are the best.
Iceland Visit Things To Do
There are so many things to do in Iceland! Spectacular waterfalls! Glaciers! Volcanoes! Ice caves! Whale-watching! Geysers! Hot springs and spas! Birdwatching! Iceland is a hikers’ paradise. We will cover these in more detail in future posts.
Iceland Vacation Packing
Iceland’s’ weather is quite variable. Dress in layers. We suggest a t-shirt and a sweater and a water-proof jacket with a hood. Take mittens or gloves and a knit hat, especially if you are whale or puffin watching from a boat.
How to Visit Iceland
Everyone is extremely friendly and helpful. And, because everyone learns English, as well as Icelandic, it is a very easy country for an American traveler to navigate. Most Icelanders speak four languages.
The two best ways to tour Iceland are to take a guided vacation with a group or to rent a car and drive yourself. There are also ocean cruises that pay visits to this amazing land.
For more ideas for your visit to Iceland, we suggest the Official Iceland Tourist Information page.
Iceland's People
With fewer than 400,000 people, Iceland is Europe’s least densely populated country. In fact, Icelanders created an app to help people from accidentally dating their cousins!
Iceland has one of the lowest poverty rates in the world. In general, most of the service employees you encounter will be relatively well-paid compared to their American counterparts.
LGBTQ+ Friendly
Everyone finds Iceland to be friendly and welcoming. This is especially true for LGBTQ+ travelers who report feeling safe and welcome during their Iceland vacations.
Money Matters
Tipping is neither customary nor expected. Of course, if you want to reward exceptional service, it is appreciated.
Credit cards are widely accepted. Bring two types, as not all are always accepted (especially American Express).
If you need Icelandic kronur, there are ATMs in the main tourist areas.
