Iceland in October Weather Guide for Travelers
                     Iceland in October: 
Weather, Temperature, and 
What to Do
You should travel to Iceland in October, as it falls in the 
shoulder season with lower travel costs and far fewer crowds. 
October in Iceland is a  time of magic, setting itself apart from 
the bustling summer months. As the ethereal transition from 
autumn to winter unfolds, you’re greeted with a  blend of pastel 
skies, icy landscapes, and captivating ice caves.
www.firefly.is
Is October a  good 
time to go to Iceland?
Yes, October may be one of the best months to visit 
the Land of Fire and Ice. The contrast between 
October’s chill and the warmth of the summer months 
makes the Land of Fire and Ice even more enchanting. 
Sounds like the perfect time for a  road trip! Here are some things 
While the ice caves beckon with their crystalline allure, 
you should know about visiting Iceland in October – especially for 
those who want to rent a  car.
the black sand beaches shimmer, taking on a  more 
mysterious hue under the autumnal light.
What is the weather like 
in Iceland in October?
While the weather in Iceland is always relatively unpredictable, 
Iceland October weather sees little snow and an average 
amount of rain coming in at about 3.5 inches throughout the 
mWonhtha. tY oius  ctahn ea lstoe emxppecetr faretquureent  iwnin Idc aenlda cnhdilly ,i nda Ompc tober?
Iceland temperature In October is around average 41°F (5°C) with 
dcoanytidimtieo nhsi gshos  ito´fs  abbeostu tt o4 b5°eF  p(r7e.2p°aCr)e adn fdo rn aig hmttiixm oef  lcorwissp n aeuatru 3m6n°F  
(2.2°C)
days and sudden storms.
How many hours of daylight in 
Iceland in October?
October still sees about 10 hours of daylight a  day with the sun setting around 7:00 pm (19:00) in Reykjavik. 
The days are growing shorter, for sure, but it’s not quite the polar night in Iceland just yet. Keep in mind that 
the weather can turn on a  dime almost any time of year but especially as the season begins to turn to winter.
What to wear in 
Iceland in October
With temperatures just above freezing, October in Iceland definitely calls for 
cold-weather gear. The key is layering, it keeps you warm when the air is cold 
but lets you adjust if the sun comes out.
Be sure to pack wool socks, a  warm hat, gloves, rain gear, a  winter coat, and 
comfortable, waterproof boots or trail runners. And don’t forget to grab an 
authentic Icelandic sheep wool sweater to keep extra warm on your adventures.
What to bring to Iceland in October
What clothes to wear in Iceland in October
Waterproof jacket & pants Warm layers 
Winter coat Hiking shoes
Thermal underwear Wool socks, 
Swimsuit & flip flops hat & gloves
Don´t forget these things 
Power bank & E U  plug adapter 
Credit car & driver´s license
Camera & tripod (For the northern lights)
C a n  you see the northern 
lights in Iceland in October?
Yes you can, many experts say that October is actually one of the best months to see the 
northern lights in Iceland! Pair this with more frequent fair weather and you have a  match 
made in heaven.
Because October is on the cusp of the more intense winter weather, skies are more likely to be 
clear and perfect for viewing the aurora borealis. Back roads that are often closed due to icy 
conditions may remain open, especially in the first half of October. This means that you’ll have 
an even better chance of avoiding light pollution and getti ng a  crystal clear view of these 
verdant ribbons of green dancing through the sky.
Where to see Northern Lights  in October
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – About 5 hours drive from Reykjavík. Where aurora dancing over icebergs is pure magic
Kirkjufell – Around 2.5 hours drive from Reykjavík. Iceland´s most photographed mountain that looks even better with the 
northern lights above it
Arctic Henge, Raufarhöfn – A  longer trip about 7.5 hours drive from Reykjavík. Remote and dark, offering some 
of the clearest aurora views in the north
Siglufjörður – Roughly 4.5 hours drive from Reykjavík. This fishing town has dark skies and great northern lights views by the 
fjord
Thingvellir Nati onal Park – Only 45 minutes from Reykjavík, with wide skies perfect for the aurora
Driving in Iceland 
in October
When considering driving in Iceland in October, it’s an experience unlike any 
other. The landscapes change rapidly, and the roads may present unexpected 
Always check the weather forecast and road conditions before starting any journey. 
Iceland’s Road and Coastal Administration offers real-time updates to ensure drivers 
have the latest information. The phrase “Iceland in October” may evoke a  sense of 
cgheanlltelenngeesss.,  Wbuhti lere Omcetmobbeerr  itnh aIcte wlaenadth ies rr eshlaifttisv eclayn m biled  scwoimft.p Iafr eydou t od ethcied ed eteop r ent a  car in 
Iceland during this month, keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, inclusive of blankets, 
water, and some non-perishable snacks, ensuring a  safe and enjoyable journey.
winter months, it’s essential for visitors, especially those planning to rent a  car 
Which Budget Car  Matches Your Trip?
in Iceland, to be well-prepared.
Economy Cars  (2WD):  Good for solo travelers or 2 people with light luggage and 
it is easy to park. You can get the car manual or automatic.
2W D  option: V W Golf or similar, Automatic.
Tip from Firefly: Great for city drives, day trips and smooth roads.
4×4 Cars: Best for 2-4 people with extra luggage. You can get the car manual or 
automatic.
4×4 option: Kia Sorento or similar, Automatic.
Tip from Firefly: Ideal for winter, rough roads and highland travel.
Best 6 Things to Do in Iceland in October
While there’s no bad time to visit Iceland, October might just be one of the best months! From chasing after the 
elusive aurora borealis to witnessing the majesty of the humpback whale migration, there’s no shortage of 
amazing things to do and you’ll have some of the best weather to do them. Here are three of the best things to 
do in Iceland in October.
See the Go Whale Road Trip See Imagine Enjoy the Exploring the 
Northern lights Watching Route 1 Peace Tower lit in Cultural Events Natural  Hot 
Iceland and Festivals Springs
Guide to October 
Iceland
If we haven’t convinced you already, October is one of the 
best months to visit Iceland with the chance to see both 
autumn colors and the northern lights. It´s the perfect time 
for a  scenic road trip and with Firefly Iceland you can rent 
a  car at the cheapest rates and get the best customer 
service.
Tip from Firefly: For the Highlands we recommend a  4×4 vehicle, 
but for shorter road trips a  smaller rental will do just fine.
DLoen’tt ’jusst  Ptralvael,n ex pYeroienucer. 
Trip in October!
Contact Information:
Phone Website
(+354) 522 00 22 www.firefly.is