Iceland in September – Weather, Activities & Travel Tips

September offers travelers the perfect blend of late summer warmth and early autumn magic. It’s an ideal time for road trips, Northern Lights viewing, and outdoor adventures without the summer crowds.

Why Visit Iceland in September?

September provides an excellent balance between summer and autumn experiences:

✅ Fewer crowds – Enjoy popular attractions without peak-season tourists.
✅ Northern Lights – The aurora borealis season begins.
✅ Mild temperatures – Ideal weather for outdoor activities.
✅ Beautiful autumn colors – Stunning, golden landscapes across Iceland.

⚠️ Challenges:

• Shortening daylight hours.
  
  
• Increasingly unpredictable weather.
  
  

💡 Tip: Dress in layers and check weather updates daily.

Iceland Weather in September

September’s weather is relatively mild, though increasingly unpredictable as autumn sets in.

Average Temperatures

• 🌡️ 5°C to 11°C (41°F to 52°F)
  
  
• Reykjavik & South Iceland: 7°C to 11°C (45°F to 52°F)
  
  
• North Iceland & Highlands: 3°C to 8°C (37°F to 46°F)
  
  

Daylight Hours in September

• ☀️ 11-14 hours of daylight
  
  
• Early September: Sunrise ~6:15 AM, sunset ~8:30 PM
  
  
• Late September: Sunrise ~7:30 AM, sunset ~7:00 PM
  
  

💡 Tip: Plan outdoor adventures earlier in the day as nights become longer.

Rain & Wind

• 🌧️ Rain becomes more frequent, especially late September.
  
  
• 💨 Winds increase, especially on coasts.
  
  

💡 Tip: Waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes are essential.

Best Things to Do in Iceland in September

1. See the Northern Lights

September marks the start of Northern Lights season:

• Best viewed in areas with minimal light pollution (Þingvellir, Kirkjufell, Jökulsárlón).
  
  
• Ideal during clear, cold nights after sunset.
  
  

💡 Tip: Book a guided Northern Lights tour to increase your viewing chances.

2. Explore Iceland’s Golden Circle

Enjoy a scenic drive with fewer crowds:

• Þingvellir National Park – Stunning autumn scenery and historic significance.
  
  
• Gullfoss Waterfall – Powerful flow enhanced by autumn rain.
  
  
• Geysir Hot Springs – Active Strokkur geyser erupting every few minutes.
  
  

💡 Tip: Early mornings offer quieter visits.

3. Experience Reykjavik’s Culture & Food

Autumn is a cozy time to explore Iceland’s capital:

• Visit the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church for panoramic city views.
  
  
• Enjoy local cuisine at vibrant cafés and restaurants along Laugavegur street.
  
  
• Discover cultural events at Harpa Concert Hall.
  
  

💡 Tip: Try Icelandic lamb dishes—autumn is lamb season.

4. Visit Waterfalls in Autumn Colors

September transforms Icelandic waterfalls with golden hues:

• Seljalandsfoss – Walk behind the cascading water.
  
  
• Skógafoss – Majestic waterfall often graced by rainbows.
  
  
• Dettifoss – Europe’s most powerful waterfall is especially impressive in autumn.
  
  

💡 Tip: Trails around waterfalls can be slippery—wear waterproof boots.

5. Relax in Iceland’s Hot Springs

September’s cooler weather is perfect for geothermal relaxation:

• Blue Lagoon – World-famous, soothing blue waters.
  
  
• Sky Lagoon – Luxury ocean-side infinity pool near Reykjavik.
  
  
• Secret Lagoon – Quiet, authentic hot spring experience.
  
  

💡 Tip: Book tickets in advance, as pools remain popular year-round.

6. Enjoy Wildlife & Whale Watching

September is excellent for wildlife viewing:

• Puffins leave mid-September; last chance early in the month (Dyrhólaey, Westman Islands).
  
  
• Whale watching remains excellent in Reykjavik, Húsavík, and Akureyri.
  
  

💡 Tip: Early-month tours are best for puffin sightings.

Road Conditions & Driving in September

🚗 September driving conditions remain good:

• Most main roads fully accessible.
  
  
• Some highland roads (F-roads) close later in the month due to snow or storms.
  
  

💡 Tip: Rent a 4x4 vehicle if traveling into the Highlands and regularly check road.is.

Packing List for Iceland in September

✅ Warm layered clothing
✅ Waterproof jacket and pants
✅ Insulated boots with good traction
✅ Gloves, scarf, and hat for colder evenings
✅ Headlamp for darker evenings
✅ Swimsuit for geothermal baths

Here you can find Blue Car Rental's ultimate guide about what to wear in Iceland. 

Conclusion

September in Iceland combines late-summer warmth with early autumn magic, offering breathtaking fall landscapes, fewer crowds, and the first glimpse of the Northern Lights. With pleasant weather, stunning colors, and great road conditions, it's the perfect month for a memorable Icelandic adventure.

If you like to know more, here is all you need to know before renting a car at Keflavik airport and a easy instruction about navigating Keflavik Airport. 

🚗 Thinking of renting a car? September is an ideal month for scenic drives and exploring Iceland’s beauty!