Iceland in April – Weather, Travel Tips & Best Things to Do

April is one of the best times to visit Iceland because it offers a blend of winter magic and early spring beauty. While snow is still present in some areas, temperatures are rising, daylight hours are increasing, and more roads are accessible for travel.

This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Iceland in April, including weather, road conditions, must-see attractions, and travel tips.

Is April a Good Time to Visit Iceland?

Yes! April is a fantastic month to visit Iceland because you get the best of both seasons:

✅ Warmer temperatures – The transition from winter to spring begins.
✅ Northern Lights (early April) – Still visible at the beginning of the month.
✅ More daylight – Up to 16.5 hours of daylight for exploring.
✅ Better driving conditions – Many roads reopen after winter closures.
✅ Fewer tourists – It’s less crowded than peak summer months.

However, April still has unpredictable weather, so it’s important to pack for all seasons!

Iceland Weather in April

April in Iceland is still chilly, but it marks the beginning of spring thaw in many areas.

Average Temperatures

🌡️ 0°C to 7°C (32°F to 45°F)

• Reykjavik & South Iceland: 2°C to 7°C (36°F to 45°F)
• North Iceland & Highlands: -2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F)
• Wind chill can make it feel colder, especially near the coast.

Daylight Hours in April

☀️ 13-16.5 hours of daylight

• Early April: Sunrise at 6:45 AM, sunset at 8:15 PM.
• Late April: Sunrise at 5:00 AM, sunset at 10:00 PM.

💡 Tip: The longer days in April allow for more sightseeing without rushing!

Best Things to Do in Iceland in April

1. Catch the Last Northern Lights

April is one of the last months to see the Northern Lights, especially in early April before the nights get too bright.

🔹 Best Northern Lights Spots:

• Thingvellir National Park
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
• Kirkjufell Mountain
• Westfjords & remote areas with little light pollution

💡 Tip: Book a guided Northern Lights tour to increase your chances of spotting them!

2. Visit Reykjavik’s Top Attractions

Reykjavik is a great base for exploring Iceland. Top attractions include:

• Hallgrímskirkja Church – The tallest building in Reykjavik with stunning city views.
• Harpa Concert Hall – A modern architectural wonder by the waterfront.
• Perlan Museum – Featuring an indoor ice cave and a Northern Lights planetarium show.

💡 Tip: Reykjavik’s coffee culture is thriving—warm up in a cozy café!

3. Drive the Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most famous scenic route, and April is an excellent time to visit as roads are clearing up after winter.

🚗 Golden Circle Stops:

• Thingvellir National Park – Walk between tectonic plates.
• Geysir Hot Springs – Watch the Strokkur geyser erupt every 5-10 minutes.
• Gullfoss Waterfall – A breathtaking waterfall, sometimes still partially frozen in early April.

💡 Tip: Roads can be icy in the morning, so drive carefully!

4. Explore Iceland’s Waterfalls

April is waterfall season, as melting snow increases water flow, making waterfalls even more powerful.

🔹 Best Waterfalls to Visit:

• Seljalandsfoss – Walk behind this waterfall (bring waterproof clothing!).
• Skógafoss – One of the most famous waterfalls, often with double rainbows.
• Dettifoss – The most powerful waterfall in Europe.

💡 Tip: Be cautious on wet trails as ice and melting snow create slippery conditions.

5. Experience Iceland’s Hot Springs

April is a great time to visit Iceland’s geothermal energy pools, as the air is still chilly, making the warm water extra refreshing.

🔹 Best Hot Springs in April:

• Sky Lagoon – A luxurious infinity pool with ocean views.
• Blue Lagoon – The most famous geothermal spa in Iceland.
• Secret Lagoon – A natural, less touristy hot spring.

💡 Tip: Book in advance, as hot springs are popular year-round.

For more information and other great ideas jhere is our top 5 things to do in Iceland in Spring. 

Road Conditions & Driving in April

🚗 Is it safe to drive in April?
Yes! Driving is easier in April than in winter, but some highland roads (F-roads) remain closed.

• Main roads (Ring Road, Golden Circle) are clear but can still have icy patches.
• North Iceland & East Fjords may still have snow in early April.
• F-roads (mountain roads) are closed until summer.

💡 Tip: Rent a 4x4 vehicle if driving outside of Reykjavik.

Packing List for Iceland in April

✅ Waterproof jacket & pants (for rain & melting snow)
✅ Insulated boots (with good grip for icy trails)
✅ Thermal layers (April can still be cold)
✅ Gloves, hat, & scarf (for wind protection)
✅ Sunglasses (the sun is brighter with reflection from snow and water)

Conclusion

Visiting Iceland in April offers a perfect mix of winter and spring, allowing you to experience snowy landscapes, waterfalls, and the Northern Lights before summer crowds arrive. With longer daylight hours, improving road conditions, and fewer tourists, it’s a great month for exploring!

🚗 Thinking of renting a car? Just check road conditions and be prepared for sudden weather changes.