Your Guide to Iceland in October

October in Iceland is about colors, serenity, and charm. Sightseeing feels unhurried, with fewer crowds than in the summer months. The weather is still mild, with just a hint of chill in the air. Daylight hours are ample for exploring, yet when darkness falls, you won’t have to wait long to chase the Northern Lights. October also marks the start of the crystal ice cave season on Vatnajökul glacier, when cool, dry air preserves these natural wonders for exploration.

Iceland in October is calm, yet full of adventure. This guide provides essential information for your visit to Iceland in October.

What is Iceland Like in October

One of the first things I was told after moving to Iceland was that the country only has two seasons, winter and summer. The winters are mild, and the summers feel warm and breezy. But living here, I’ve come to see that Iceland does have more — autumn and spring are just short, with October standing out as its own brief but beautiful autumn season. 

On a clear, sunny October day, Iceland is just as glorious as any place where autumn transforms the landscape into a canvas of color. Everywhere you go, the fall hues adorn the attractions, casting a new light on the unique Sub-Arctic terrain and revealing a beauty that feels both fleeting and timeless.

Iceland does have autumn—and October captures it all, and more.

Iceland’s October Weather

The most important thing to keep in mind when traveling in Iceland is the weather—it determines what you pack, how you prepare, and what you can expect.

Iceland’s weather in October can be quite unpredictable, but that’s part of its charm. Temperatures usually range between 0–7°C (32–45°F), though the wind can make it feel colder. Meanwhile, different regions have their own climate that is worth noting.

The weather in Reykjavík can be somehow unpredictable, with sun, rain, snow, and wind sometimes all in one day. In Reykjavík, or Iceland’s capital region, October’s temperatures can vary between chilly nights and cool daytime highs, averaging around 8°C (46°F) during the day and dropping to about 2°C (36°F) at night, with an overall mean of 5°C (41°F). The weather can be unpredictable, sometimes reaching as warm as 16°C (60°F), though in history the record low has dropped to −10°C (14°F). Rain can be common, while snow is still rare.

In Akureyri, or North Iceland, in October, you’ll find the region crisp and cool. Daytime highs hover around 7°C (44°F), and nights drop to about 1°C (34°F). You can expect some rain and a few snowy days, with limited sunshine throughout the month.

For daylight hours in Iceland in October, it offers a nice balance between day and night, with around 8–11 hours of daylight — shorter than summer, but still plenty of time to explore before the long winter nights arrive.

With brisk days, soft autumn light, and the first hints of winter, the city feels both cozy and dramatic — perfect for layering up, wearing waterproof clothing, and sturdy shoes while exploring outdoors.

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Read Sunrise and Sunset Times in Iceland to learn more.
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What to do and What to see in October in Iceland

The Northern Lights

October is a great month to see the northern lights in Iceland because the nights are long and dark enough for clear viewing, yet not as bitterly cold as mid-winter. The skies are often crisp after autumn weather fronts pass, creating good conditions for auroras to appear. 

The best way to chase the magical Northern Lights is to join a guided Northern Lights tour, in which the guide will use local knowledge and real-time forecasts to take you to the best viewing spots, away from city lights, giving you the greatest chance of seeing the aurora.

Autumn Foliage Colors

Autumn foliage in Iceland isn’t only about dense forests — even the subarctic terrain offers striking fall scenes. It is short but stunning, and October is the best time to see it.

In Iceland, the colors spread across moss, shrubs, and small birch trees that glow in warm shades of yellow, orange, and red. One of the most beautiful places to enjoy this change is Þingvellir National Park, where birch woodlands and heath plants turn the landscape into soft autumn tones. In and around Reykjavík, you’ll find bursts of color in parks like Elliðaárdalur Valley and around Tjörnin pond, but the real highlight is Heiðmörk Nature Reserve, where trails wind through golden birch and red shrubs beside lava fields. For a more dramatic backdrop, head north to Akureyri, often called the “Capital of the North,” where fall colors glow against the mountains. Though brief, Iceland’s autumn light paired with these landscapes makes October feel like a rare and magical season.

Crystal Ice Caves

Glacial ice caves are among the most mesmerizing natural wonders in Iceland, and October marks the start of the season to explore them. From October through March, the cooler air helps stabilize these crystal-blue formations, allowing visitors to safely experience the incredible caves that are shaped entirely by nature.

Iceland — and Europe’s — largest ice cap, Vatnajökull Glacier, is the perfect place to discover crystal ice caves. These spectacular ice formations are a breathtaking natural wonder, where sunlight filters through deep blue ice to create a surreal, glowing world. 

Please take in mind that you must have a professional glacier guide to take you up on a glacier, as the ice is constantly shifting and hidden crevasses make it extremely dangerous to navigate without proper expertise and equipment. Most tours use a super jeep to bring visitors near the glacier, followed by a short walk or even a glacier hike to reach the entrance of the ice cave, depending on where the caves have formed.

Glacier Tours in Iceland

Besides glacier ice caving, there are many other adventurous glacier tours, including glacier hiking, snowmobiling, and ice climbing.

Glacier hiking in Iceland during October is a truly special experience. The summer crowds are gone, the air is crisp, and there’s a good chance the ice cap hasn’t been fully covered by snow yet, so you can still see the raw textures and deep blue tones of the ancient ice. With a professional guide, you’ll safely explore crevasses, ridges, and shimmering formations that make the glacier feel otherworldly. The soft autumn light enhances the colors of the ice, making this one of the most memorable adventures of the season.

Snowmobiling in Iceland during October is a thrilling way to experience the country’s vast glaciers. This activity is available year-round, but in October you’ll need to head higher up the glacier to find enough snow. Tours usually take place on Langjökull, where super jeeps bring you to the right elevation before the ride begins.

Festivals & Events in Iceland in October

Reykjavík International Film Festival (RIFF / Alþjóðleg kvikmyndahátíð í Reykjavík) – Iceland’s biggest film event, showcasing independent cinema and emerging talent with screenings in both theaters and unusual venues across Reykjavík.

Imagine Peace Tower Lighting (Friðarsúlunni) – On October 9, Yoko Ono lights a powerful beam on Viðey Island in memory of John Lennon, shining until December 8.

Reykjavík Opera Days (Óperudagar í Reykjavík) – Mid to late October, opera performances pop up in unexpected city spaces like churches, galleries, and public halls.

Sequence Art Festival (Sequences listasýningin) – Reykjavík hosts an art event showcasing experimental contemporary art.

Northern Lights Festival in Stykkishólmur (Norðurljósahátíð í Stykkishólmi) – From October 24–27, this Snæfellsnes town blends concerts, exhibitions, and community events under the aurora.

Days of Darkness (Dagar Myrkurs) – East Iceland marks the shift into winter with folklore-inspired storytelling, art, and cultural gatherings in late October.

Réttir – Sheep Round-Up (Réttir) – Traditional sheep round-ups take place across the countryside, with locals herding flocks, sharing food, and celebrating the season.

Culture & Ram Days in Raufarhöfn (Menningar- og Hrútadagar) – A northern village festival highlighting sheep farming culture with food and music.

Driving in Iceland in October

Driving in Iceland in October can be both rewarding and unpredictable.

The main roads, including the Ring Road, are generally open, but road conditions can shift quickly with autumn storms bringing rain, wind, or even the first snow of the season. 

It is generally easier in October than in the depths of an Icelandic winter. Snow is rare in Reykjavík and the South, and conditions are much milder, though rain, wind, and occasional frost can still make the roads slippery. With shorter days and quickly changing weather, it’s important to plan your routes carefully and drive with caution.

In the north and east, icy patches are more common, especially early in the morning and late at night, while the highland roads are usually closed by this time of year.

I strongly advise you to rent a 4×4, and check daily updates on road.is, and always watch the weather conditions when you’re on a road trip in Iceland — they can change quickly, even in October, affecting both driving and sightseeing. Roads may become slippery, visibility can drop, and some attractions may be harder to reach, so it’s best to plan ahead and stay flexible.

What to Wear in Iceland in October

Dressing for Iceland in October is all about being ready for anything. The weather can shift quickly — sunshine one minute, rain or even snow the next — so layers are your best friend. 

Start with a warm base layer, add a fleece or wool sweater for mid layer, and top it off with a windproof and waterproof jacket. A light, thin down jacket is especially useful — compact when folded, easy to carry, and versatile enough to handle all kinds of weather. It’s also great for an ice-caving adventure, keeping you comfortable as you explore the freezing wonders beneath the glacier.

For chasing the Northern Lights, unless you’re lucky enough to catch them on a stroll through the city, most Northern Lights tours take you into the countryside where it’s colder. A warm down jacket will make a big difference, paired with a thermal layer under wind-resistant pants. 

Skip the jeans — they’re fine indoors, but outside they quickly become cold and uncomfortable.

Sturdy, waterproof boots are a must for exploring waterfalls, trails, and wet city streets. When it comes to hiking shoes or boots, go for ones with solid grip and ankle support, as Iceland’s rugged terrain often has loose stones that make trails slippery.

And don’t forget the small essentials: gloves, a hat, and a scarf, since the wind often makes it feel colder than the thermometer shows. I always wear a pair of wool socks to keep my feet dry and warm — and I keep an extra pair in my backpack, just in case.

What to Pack for Iceland in October

Beyond layers and warm outerwear, a few key items can make your October trip to Iceland much more comfortable and enjoyable. A good backpack is essential for day trips, hikes, and glacier excursions, ideally one that’s water-resistant. Reusable water bottles are a must — Iceland’s tap water is some of the cleanest in the world, so you can stay hydrated while exploring without buying plastic bottles. And don’t forget to pack a swimsuit for hot springs, geothermal pools, or even indoor pools.

For adventures like glacier hiking, ice climbing, or visiting ice caves, bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from glare off the ice and snow, and sunscreen even in autumn, since UV rays can be surprisingly strong. A headlamp or flashlight is useful as daylight hours are shorter, and if you’re driving a rental car, keeping a handheld flashlight in the vehicle is highly recommended for emergencies or sudden stops in remote areas.

For photography, pack extra batteries and memory cards, since cold weather drains battery life faster and the landscapes are so dramatic you’ll want plenty of shots. 

A quick-dry towel can come in handy after hot springs or geothermal pools, and a thermos is great for carrying hot drinks on long outdoor trips.

Finally, consider some small comforts for you to pack for unpredictable weather: hand warmers, a lightweight travel blanket, or even waterproof phone and camera cases can make outdoor excursions far more pleasant.

Best Tours in Iceland in October

The Northern Lights Tours

Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland is on almost everyone’s bucket list, and while you might get lucky and spot them from Reykjavík on a clear night, joining a Northern Lights tour is the best way to truly experience the magic. City lights wash out the aurora due to light pollution, but Northern Lights hunt tours take you deep into the countryside where the skies are dark and wide, letting the colors dance across the horizon. 

Guides track the aurora forecast, solar activity, and cloud cover, moving to the best spots each night so you’re never left guessing. BusTravel Iceland even offers a “retry” policy, letting you join again if the aurora borealis don’t appear. 

You can choose from coach tours, small-group Aurora adventures, or specialized Northern Lights photography tours, each offering a unique way to capture the spectacle.

The Golden Circle Tours

While traveling along Iceland’s South Coast offers a stunning mix of glaciers, black sand beaches, glacier lagoons, and waterfalls, the region is especially known for its mossy lowlands and grassy vegetation, which take on a soft, golden glow in autumn. Yet, if you’re after Iceland’s quintessential autumn scenery, the Golden Circle route is the place to be.

Along the Golden Circle, you’ll of course find iconic highlights like Þingvellir National Park, the erupting geysers at Haukadalur, and the thundering Gullfoss waterfall. But venturing a little off the main path reveals hidden gems — soak in the warm waters of the Secret Lagoon, Laugarás Lagoon, or the Laugarvatn Fontana Spa, marvel at the striking blue waters of Bruarfoss, stroll past the picturesque Faxi waterfall, or explore quiet valleys where autumn colors paint the landscape in warm golds and reds. Don’t miss the Kerið volcanic crater lake, whose vivid turquoise water contrasts beautifully with the red and orange slopes surrounding the crater, a particularly striking scene in October.

Multi-day Tours Around the Ring Road

If there’s one adventure that truly captures the spirit of Iceland in October, it’s a multi-day tour around the Ring Road. The 6-day Ring Road tour takes you far beyond the capital, circling the island and showcasing Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes in the soft light of autumn. Imagine standing before Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, waterfalls roaring against golden hills, walking the black sands of Reynisfjara Beach, or drifting among floating icebergs at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. In the East, quiet fjords glow with fall colors, while in the North you’ll find the steaming geothermal fields and volcanic landscapes of Lake Mývatn, with chances to spot whales off the coast of Húsavík or relax in the healing waters of the Mývatn Nature Baths. Ending your journey in the West, the lava waterfalls of Hraunfossar are especially striking in October, framed by golden birch trees that set the whole valley aglow.

You can also easily extend your 6-day Ring Road tour into a 7-day adventure with a day trip to the spectacular Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Add a hike to Iceland’s newest volcanic eruption site on the Reykjanes Peninsula, and your journey becomes an 8-day adventure that’s truly iconic and uniquely Icelandic.

2-Day and 3-Day Tours Exploring Iceland in October

If you’re short on time but want to experience some of Iceland’s most breathtaking sights, BusTravel Iceland’s 2-day South Coast tour is a perfect choice for October. This journey takes you past waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, onto the dramatic Reynisfjara black sand beach, and into the world of ice at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the sparkling Diamond Beach. Staying overnight near Vatnajökull National Park gives you more time to enjoy this glacier-draped region, and in October you may even catch the Northern Lights dancing overhead after dark. With autumn’s softer light and fewer visitors at each stop, the landscapes feel more personal, more cinematic, and deeply unforgettable.

For those who want to see even more without rushing, the 3-day tour combines the best of the South Coast with the highlights of the Golden Circle. Over three days you’ll stand in awe at Gullfoss waterfall, watch the geysers erupt at Haukadalur, and walk between tectonic plates in Þingvellir National Park. Then the journey continues along the South Coast to the glaciers, waterfalls, and black-sand shores that make this region so iconic. October adds an extra layer of beauty, with autumn colors softening the landscapes and the chance to spot the Northern Lights at night. This tour balances Iceland’s classics with time to slow down and enjoy the changing season, making it an ideal choice for anyone visiting in autumn.

These tours also give you flexibility — you can turn the 3-day into a 4-day adventure by adding Snæfellsnes, or stretch it to 5 days with a trip to the Reykjanes Peninsula, where a hike leads you to Iceland’s newest volcanic eruption site. Both add-ons are especially rewarding in October, each offering its own unique seasonal charm.

Unique Experiences to Recommend in Iceland in October

Here are some of the experiences I’ve found especially unique in Iceland in October.

Soak in a geothermal baths during golden hours

In October, sunset shifts from around 7 p.m. at the start of the month to about 5 p.m. by the end, painting the sky in soft pinks and golds. This makes it the perfect time to plan a visit to a geothermal spa before sunset, as you can enjoy a soothing soak in the warm waters, take in the autumn sky, and still head off for a cozy dinner afterwards.

The Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon are both spectacular options near Reykjavík, while Laugarás Lagoon on the Golden Circle, Vök Baths in East Iceland, and Mývatn Nature Baths near Akureyri in the north each offer their own magical settings. Whether it’s an infinity pool overlooking the sea or a natural hot spring tucked into dramatic landscapes, October’s golden-hour light makes the experience unforgettable.

Stroll in the autumn colors of Thingvellir National Park and more

Every autumn, many locals in Iceland’s capital region love to take a relaxed stroll through Þingvellir National Park, simply to immerse themselves in the beautiful fall foliage and the park’s unique landscape. It’s one of the best places to experience the season, where warm, brilliant colors light up the scenery all around you.

The park is also especially photogenic, with its diverse landscape of lava fields, lakes, and birch woodlands offering endless elements to explore through photography.

Þingvellir is known for its birch woodlands, once called Bláskógar in Icelandic, meaning “Blue Woods.” The National Park is home to more than 170 plant species, nearly 40% of Iceland’s flora, making it a place of rich variety. 

The ground of the national park is covered by acres of bushes and moss, including birch, willow, heath plants, and dwarf birch. In autumn, these transform the landscape into a living canvas of gold, amber, and soft rust tones, with colors that seem to shift with the light. 

This seasonal display gives Þingvellir a magical atmosphere and draws visitors who come to wander its trails and admire the park at its most enchanting.

Besides regular sightseeing trips to Þingvellir National Park, you can also partake in a snorkeling adventure in the clearest water in the world at Silfra Fissure. October is a great time to do it, as the surrounding environment is painted in rich autumn colors, creating a striking contrast with the crystal-blue water and making the experience even more unforgettable.

Reykjavik City Walk in Autumn Breeze

Taking a walk in Reykjavik in October has its own charm. The air is crisp, the autumn light softens the colorful houses, and the breeze carries that fresh, salty scent from the ocean. The city’s streets and alleys are decorated with bursts of autumn color, as trees turn golden yellow and deep red, adding warmth to the cool air. 

Strolling around, you can wander along the old harbor, circle Tjörnin pond with its gathering of swans and ducks, or weave through quiet streets lined with cozy cafés. 

Joining a guided walking tour is also a wonderful way to experience the capital — the slower pace lets you take in Reykjavík’s history, street art, and hidden corners, all framed by the season’s soft light and autumn hues. 

Just a couple of hours is enough to enjoy this side of Reykjavík, giving you a break from the bigger adventures while still feeling like you’ve discovered something special.

You can choose to start your day with a morning walk in Reykjavík’s city center, then enjoy a cozy brunch or early lunch before heading out for an afternoon Golden Circle adventure. Or, if you prefer, join a Golden Circle tour in the morning and return to Reykjavík for a relaxed evening in the city. As the autumn sun sets, take a stroll through Reykjavík’s streets glowing in soft golden light, with colorful trees and house fronts adding warmth to the cool evening air. For dinner, you’ll find plenty of great options — from vibrant spots like Monkeys or Kol, to the lively food hall at the Iceland Ocean Cluster by the Old Harbor, or even a handmade sourdough pizza at Flatey. However you spend it, Reykjavík’s autumn evenings offer endless possibilities for a memorable time.

Why You Should Travel to Iceland in October

Why travel to Iceland in October? For many, it’s the sweet spot between the endless days of summer and the deep dark of winter. The crowds have thinned, prices are easier on the wallet, and nature puts on a show — from golden birch trees at Þingvellir to glaciers that are still bare enough to reveal their ancient blue ice. Nights are long enough for a chance to see the northern lights, yet not as biting cold as midwinter. Add in the return of cultural events in Reykjavík, and October offers a balance of adventure, affordability, and atmosphere that’s hard to beat.