We might be biased, but Iceland really is one of those places that feels worth visiting every month of the year. In early spring, the ice thaws, and everything comes back to life, from roaring waterfalls to green valleys waking up under the last patches of snow. During fall, everything slows down: quieter roads, cooler air, and a color palette that seems to change by the hour.
Ideally, you’d get to experience the land of fire and ice in every season. But if you’re choosing just one month, Iceland in September is hard to beat. You get a taste of summer and a hint of winter. The days are still long enough to do plenty of activities, but dark enough at night to catch the auroras. Crowds thin out, roads stay open, and campgrounds feel relaxed but not yet completely empty.
Convinced going to Iceland in September is the right option for you? Here’s everything you need to know.
Is September a Good Month to Travel to Iceland?
In September, the weather is starting to cool down and the country is significantly less crowded, making it a great month to visit Iceland. You still get the freedom of long road trip days, but with cooler air, green-and-gold landscapes, and a stronger chance of spotting the northern lights.
It’s a classic shoulder-season month, which means:
- Lower prices on flights, rentals, and accommodation
- Fewer tourists at popular spots
- Weather that’s still mild enough for road trips, hikes, and beach adventures
Most of the summer experiences are still available, too, like whale watching, glacier hikes, horse riding, even puffin spotting if you’re early enough in the month. This means that you get all the access without the peak-season chaos.
What Is the Weather Like in Iceland in September?
Average temperatures range from 45–55°F (7–13°C), so you’ll want to pack layers but nothing extreme.
You’ll likely get a little of everything: sunshine, chilly breezes, light rain, and in higher elevations, maybe even the season’s first dusting of snow. The weather changes quickly, though, which we consider part of the experience. By mid-September, fall foliage starts to roll in, and Iceland’s landscapes become picture-perfect with golden grasslands, red moss, and mountain peaks starting to frost.
What Time Does It Get Dark?
Daylight starts to shorten in September, but there’s still plenty of time for exploring.
- Early September in Iceland gets around 14 hours of daylight.
- Late September in Iceland sees around 11 hours of daylight.
That means you can still cover a lot of ground during the day and settle in with a cup of cocoa for a front-row seat to the aurora at night.
Is It Expensive Visiting Iceland in September?
While Iceland has a reputation for being pricey, September is one of the more affordable times to visit if you plan ahead. It’s still smart to outline your budget carefully, but you’ll find more breathing room compared to the summer rush.
September sits just after peak season, so:
- Flights and campervan rentals are often cheaper than in July or August.
- Hotels may offer off-season deals, especially in smaller towns.
- Crowds thin out, which can make tours and activities more available.
That said, some costs stay high year-round:
- Gas, groceries, and eating out can still take up a big chunk of your budget.
- Popular tours (like glacier hikes or whale watching) are priced consistently.
If you’re looking to save:
- Cook your own meals; many campervans come with full setups.
- Use campsites instead of hotels or guesthouses.
- Book flights, vans, and big-ticket tours early to lock in better prices.
Trips to Iceland in September don’t have to break the bank; they just take a bit of planning, like renting a campervan that doubles as your hotel, restaurant, and road trip HQ.
How Do I Get Around Iceland in September?
One of the best things about Iceland is that the country is made for road trips. And in September, popular routes, like the Ring Road and the Golden Circle, are still accessible and with minimal traffic. This means that renting your own car or campervan turns the journey itself into part of the adventure, and in September, the roads are still wide open for exploring.
Public transport works fine in Reykjavik in September and year-round, but once you leave the city, options are limited. If you’re not renting a vehicle, day tours are available for major sights, but keep in mind that you’ll be on their schedule, not yours.
Is September Safe to Drive in Iceland?
Yes, September is a great time to drive, though it’s always a good idea to stay smart about the weather.
- Check daily road conditions at road.is and keep an eye on forecasts.
- A 4×4 is handy if you’re heading into the Highlands, though not essential for the Ring Road.
- Be cautious around foggy areas, wet roads, and sheep wandering near the highway.
With some prep and common sense, September road-tripping in Iceland is safe, jaw-dropping, and seriously fun.
What Are the Best Things to Do in Iceland in September?
If you decide to travel to Iceland in September, you’re truly in for a treat. The country has something for everyone; you can explore local culture, chase natural wonders, relax in hot springs, or explore under the stars, all with fewer crowds and cooler temps. It’s also one of the best months to travel in a campervan, giving you total freedom to follow the weather, make last-minute detours, and sleep close to whatever you’re seeing.
Here are just a few of the many things to do in Iceland in September.
1. Experience Local Festivals
Iceland’s September festivals blend rural traditions and urban culture for a truly local experience. The month kicks off with countryside traditions mixed in with city buzz. You’ll find everything from sheep roundups to indie film screenings, all in one trip:
- Réttir: Every September, locals gather across rural Iceland for the annual sheep round-up. It’s one of the most authentic cultural experiences you can catch, complete with horseback riders, community feasts, live music, and a peek into Icelandic farm life.
- Reykjavík International Film Festival (RIFF): Held in late September, RIFF welcomes a curated lineup of international films to the capital, along with talks, special screenings, and events across the city.
- Smaller events, like local music nights and art exhibitions, also pop up in places like Akureyri and Ísafjörður.
2. Catch the Northern Lights
No trip to Iceland is complete without chasing auroras, and September nights are finally dark enough to catch the Northern Lights. Best of all, temperatures haven’t dropped too low yet, so it’s the ideal time for staying out late with a camera and hot drink.
Here are some tips:
- Stay outside of city centers for better visibility.
- Use aurora forecast apps and check cloud cover maps.
- Campervans give you the freedom to move with the sky and find clear patches on the go. Check out our Northern Lights blog for more info.
3. Soak in Hot Springs
Iceland’s hot springs are especially relaxing in September’s cooler weather and fewer crowds. Plus, there’s something about warm geothermal water meeting the fall air that hits differently in the fall.
Some of the best hot springs in Iceland for soaking during September include:
- Blue Lagoon: Still open and still stunning; go at sunset for dramatic light and fewer crowds
- Secret Lagoon: Smaller and more rustic, but just as relaxing
- Sky Lagoon & Forest Lagoon: Stylish alternatives with scenic views and less foot traffic
4. Visit Iconic Waterfalls
September is one of the best months to visit Iceland’s waterfalls, with full flow and stunning fall scenery. With glacier melt still running strong and fall colors coming in, Iceland’s waterfalls are at their most photogenic this time of year.
Top waterfalls to visit:
- Gullfoss: A Golden Circle staple with thunderous power
- Skógafoss: Dramatic, accessible, and often framed by rainbows
- Seljalandsfoss: The famous one you can walk behind—bring a rain jacket
- Dynjandi: A remote beauty in the Westfjords if you’re going off-route
5. Take a Whale Watching Tour
September is still prime time for whale watching in Iceland, especially in northern towns like Húsavík. Boats still go out regularly, especially from the north:
- Húsavík: Known as Iceland’s whale capital
- Akureyri & Reykjavík: Solid options with plenty of departures
- Common sightings: Humpbacks, minkes, dolphins, porpoises
Book early, especially toward the end of the month when tours start scaling back.
6. Go Glacier Hiking
Glacier hikes are popular in September thanks to stable conditions and expert-led tours on dramatic ice formations. During September, the weather is still manageable, the ice is stable, and the views are unreal.
Consider going to:
- Sólheimajökull: A beginner-friendly glacier on the South Coast
- Vatnajökull: Europe’s largest glacier, with multiple tour options
Good to know:
- All gear is included, and certified guides lead every hike
- Book ahead—spots go fast, especially on weekends
7. Drive the Golden Circle
September is ideal for driving Iceland’s Golden Circle, with open roads and iconic sites easily accessible. This classic loop is perfect for a campervan trip: short distances, awesome stops, and great roads. You can hit the main spots in a day or stretch it over two with some well-timed detours.
Key stops:
- Þingvellir National Park: Historic site and tectonic rift valley
- Geysir Geothermal Area: Watch the Strokkur geyser erupt every 10 minutes
- Gullfoss: One of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls
Optional stops:
- Kerið Crater: A colorful volcanic caldera
- Secret Lagoon or Fontana Spa: For a warm soak along the way
With a campervan, you can take your time, skip the tour groups, and pull over when something grabs your attention—which it will, often.
Ready to Visit Iceland in September? Let Rent.is Lead the Way
Iceland in September is beautiful, features the perfect weather, and is full of moments you won’t find on a tight itinerary. The days are still long enough to explore, the roads are open, and the skies start showing their colors at night. It’s a season of fewer people, quieter trails, and wide-open possibilities. With a campervan from Rent.is, you’re free to enjoy your Iceland trip in September at your own pace, with everything you need right there with you. Got questions? We’re here to help. Reach out anytime to learn more, check availability, or start planning your September road trip across Iceland.