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

November in Iceland marks the true start of winter, bringing snow-covered landscapes, icy waterfalls, and extended nighttime hours—perfect for Northern Lights viewing. If you’re looking for a winter adventure without the Christmas crowds, November is a great time to visit.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Iceland in November, including weather, road conditions, must-see attractions, and essential travel tips.

Is November a Good Time to Visit Iceland?

Yes! November is one of the best months to experience Iceland’s winter magic while still having access to key attractions.

✅ Peak Northern Lights season – Long nights make for better viewing conditions.
✅ First full month of ice cave tours – Ice caves begin forming and are safe to visit.
✅ Snow-covered landscapes – Experience Iceland’s famous waterfalls, mountains, and black sand beaches in a winter setting.
✅ Fewer tourists – Enjoy a quieter, more peaceful experience before the holiday season.
✅ Lower prices – Hotels, car rentals, and flights are often cheaper than in December or summer months.

However, November also comes with challenges:

⚠️ Cold temperatures and strong winds – Winter storms can be intense.
⚠️ Limited daylight hours – Days are much shorter (only 5-7 hours of sunlight).
⚠️ Unpredictable road conditions – Ice and snow may affect driving.

💡 Tip: Book guided tours for activities like Northern Lights chasing and ice cave exploring to avoid driving in tough conditions.

Iceland Weather in November

November in Iceland is cold, dark, and snowy, making it perfect for winter lovers!

Average Temperatures

🌡️ -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F)

• Reykjavik & South Iceland: 0°C to 4°C (32°F to 39°F)
• North Iceland & Highlands: -3°C to 2°C (27°F to 36°F)
• Feels colder with wind chill, especially in open areas!

Daylight Hours in November

☀️ 5-7 hours of daylight

• Early November: Sunrise at 9:15 AM, sunset at 4:30 PM.
• Late November: Sunrise at 10:45 AM, sunset at 3:45 PM.

💡 Tip: Plan your outdoor activities during daylight hours and save Northern Lights viewing for nighttime.

Snow & Rain

❄️ Snowfall begins covering most of Iceland, especially in the north.
💨 Wind speeds increase, making the weather feel even colder.
🌧️ Rain is common in coastal areas, particularly in Reykjavik and the South Coast.

💡 Tip: Always check the weather forecast before heading out, as storms can affect travel plans.

Best Things to Do in Iceland in November

1. Chase the Northern Lights

November is one of the best months to see the Northern Lights, thanks to long nights and clear skies.

🔹 Best Northern Lights Spots:

• Thingvellir National Park – A UNESCO site with great dark sky conditions.
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – Watch the auroras reflect off icebergs.
• Kirkjufell Mountain – One of the most famous winter photography locations in Iceland.
• Remote countryside areas – The less light pollution, the better!

💡 Tip: Book a guided Northern Lights tour for expert guidance and better viewing chances.

2. Visit Ice Caves Before They Melt

November is the first full month of ice cave tours, making it a must-do winter activity!

🔹 Best Ice Caves to Visit:

• Crystal Ice Cave in Vatnajökull National Park.
• Katla Ice Cave (accessible year-round).

💡 Tip: Ice caves can be dangerous—always book a tour with a certified guide.

3. Explore Reykjavik’s Cozy Winter Attractions

Reykjavik is a great base for winter adventures.

• Hallgrímskirkja Church – The tallest building in Reykjavik with a beautiful snowy backdrop.
• Harpa Concert Hall – Hosts concerts, events, and winter music festivals.
• Perlan Museum – Features a real indoor ice cave and a Northern Lights planetarium show.

💡 Tip: Reykjavik’s cafés and restaurants offer delicious Icelandic soups and hot drinks!

4. Take a Golden Circle Winter Road Trip

The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most scenic routes, and November is a beautiful time to visit.

🚗 Golden Circle Stops:

• Thingvellir National Park – Walk between tectonic plates in a snow-covered valley.
• Geysir Hot Springs – Watch the Strokkur geyser erupt every few minutes.
• Gullfoss Waterfall – A powerful waterfall, sometimes partially frozen in winter.

💡 Tip: Roads can be icy—drive cautiously or book a guided tour.

Road Conditions & Driving in November

🚗 Is it safe to drive in November?
Driving in November can be challenging due to snow, ice, and storms.

• Main roads (Ring Road, Golden Circle) are open, but side roads may be icy.
• North Iceland & Highlands experience heavy snow.
• F-roads (mountain roads) are closed until summer.

💡 Tip: Rent a 4x4 vehicle and check road.is for live road conditions.

Packing List for Iceland in November

✅ Thermal base layers (merino wool is best).
✅ Waterproof & windproof jacket & pants.
✅ Insulated boots with good grip (for icy trails).
✅ Gloves, hat, & scarf (for wind protection).
✅ Headlamp or flashlight (for dark mornings/evenings).

If you want to dig a little deeper, check out our survival tips for the Icelandic winter. 

Conclusion

Visiting Iceland in November offers incredible winter experiences, including Northern Lights, ice caves, hot springs, and snow-covered landscapes. While the weather is cold, it’s a quieter and more affordable time to visit before the holiday rush.

if you want more guidance here is our top beautiful places to see in Iceland in winter.