Iceland in October: The Self-Drive Travel Guide 2025

Planning a trip to Iceland in October? October is a great time to visit Iceland as it’s the end of the busy summer season, so you won’t have to compete with as many tourists when it comes to viewing attractions. Flights and accommodation tend to be cheaper at this time of year as well, plus you may even get a chance to glimpse the northern lights!

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Iceland in October, from weather and packing advice to driving conditions, rental cars, festivals, and a suggested itinerary.

Related readings: Search for a Rental Car in Iceland; Travel Guides to Iceland

Table of Contents

• Iceland Weather in October
• What to Pack for Iceland in October
• Driving Conditions in Iceland in October
• The Best Rental Car for Iceland in October
• Is October a Good Time To Go to Iceland?
• Best Things to Do in Iceland in October
• Best Festivals and Events in Iceland in October
• Self-Drive Itinerary for October
• What Does Iceland in October Look Like?
• Frequently Asked Questions

Weather in Iceland in October

October is the month when summer truly gives way to autumn in Iceland. While snow is still rare in the lowlands, temperatures drop, days shorten quickly, and weather patterns become more unpredictable. You might experience sunshine, rain, fog, and strong winds all in a single day.

The Average Temperature of Iceland in October

Temperatures usually range between 2°C (36°F) and 7°C (45°F). The South Coast and Reykjavík tend to be slightly warmer, while the north and higher elevations are colder and more likely to see early snowfall.

The Daylight Hours

Daylight hours shrink dramatically through October. At the start of the month, the sun rises around 7:30 a.m. and sets near 7:00 p.m. By the end, daylight runs from roughly 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. That means only about 8 hours of daylight by late October, which leaves enough time for sightseeing, but with long, dark nights ideal for northern lights hunting.

Is Iceland Cold in October? 

October is chilly, but not freezing like the winter months ahead. With the right clothing, you can comfortably hike, sightsee, and explore. The key challenge is not so much the temperature as the variability: a day might start calm and clear but turn wet and windy by afternoon.

What to Pack for Iceland in October?

Since Iceland is a hub for outdoor adventure, the most important thing is that you’re dressed in weather-appropriate clothing so that you’ll be comfortable when exploring the outdoors. In October in Iceland, some of the best things to pack include:

• Sturdy, waterproof shoes with good grip
• Thick socks
• A waterproof outer layer
• Waterproof, functional backpack
• Activewear (pants and tops that are breathable, comfortable and quick-dry)
•  Thermal underlayers
• Scarf and warm gloves
• A fleece sweater
• Swimwear and towel

For a full breakdown of year-round gear, see our complete Iceland packing list.

Driving Conditions in Iceland in October

Road conditions in October are generally good, especially on major routes like the Ring Road (Route 1) and the Golden Circle. Most roads are free of snow, though slippery conditions can occur in the north, Eastfjords, or Westfjords as the month progresses. The Highlands, however, are closed by October. F-roads in Iceland shut down as early as mid-September, so you won’t be able to explore Iceland’s interior until the following summer. Rain, fog, and early frost are the main driving concerns. Always check road.is for updates before setting out, and allow extra time if you’re heading to remote areas.

The Best Rental Car for Iceland in October

The best rental car depends on where you plan to go. If you’re staying around Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, or the South Coast, a 2WD compact or economy car is usually sufficient. However, for travel in the north, Eastfjords, or Westfjords, a 4×4 SUV is recommended for added safety and stability, especially if you encounter slippery or gravel roads.

Even if you don’t plan to venture far from the main routes, renting a 4×4 in October is a smart choice. The weather can be unpredictable, and having extra traction gives peace of mind. If you’re traveling with a group or carrying lots of luggage, a larger SUV will also make your journey more comfortable.

Because October has less demand than summer, you’ll usually have more options when booking a rental car, but it’s still worth reserving in advance to get the best fit for your trip.

Is October a Good Time To Go to Iceland?

October is one of Iceland’s most underrated months to visit. With far fewer tourists than summer, you’ll have more space to yourself at major attractions and more flexibility when booking tours or accommodations. Flights and hotels are often cheaper, making it one of the most budget-friendly times to travel.

It’s also the beginning of northern lights season, with dark skies returning and good chances to spot the aurora on clear nights. The weather, while cooler, is still mild enough for outdoor activities like hiking and glacier tours, without the intense cold and heavy snow of winter.

The only downsides are the shorter days and the increased likelihood of rain, but for many, that’s a fair trade for smaller crowds, lower prices, and the chance to see Iceland in a new light.

Best Things to Do in Iceland in October

So, are you convinced to come and visit Iceland in October yet? Since October is on the cusp of both the summer and winter seasons you can enjoy some activities and attractions that are available in both seasons. Here are some of the top things that you don’t want to miss when you travel to Iceland for a self-drive tour in October:

1. Hunt for the Northern Lights

October is the first full month of aurora season. With long, dark nights and relatively mild weather, it’s an excellent time to chase the northern lights. Head away from city lights to a place like Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Thingvellir National Park, or the black sand beaches of Vík are all popular spots. For an even better chance, join a guided tour where experts track the aurora forecasts.

2. Explore Iceland’s Natural Wonders

Iceland is home to incredibly diverse natural landscapes and features that you can visit throughout October. Iceland is incredibly popular for its hot springs, all of which you can visit and enjoy in October. These include the Blue Lagoon, Vök Baths, and Mývatn Nature Baths.

You can also travel to many of the beautiful waterfalls in Iceland during a self-drive tour in October. Don’t miss out on Gullfoss, one of the top ten waterfalls in the world, and Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe.

Iceland isn’t called the land of ice and fire for no reason. Iceland is a volcanic island, formed by tons of volcanic eruptions. You can visit Iceland’s volcanos in October including Eyjafjallajökull and Krafla. Iceland also has lots of glacial terrains, hence the ‘ice.’ So don’t miss the opportunity to visit glaciers in October.

3. Whale Watching

Many species of whales, including humpbacks, minkes, and even orcas, are still present in Iceland’s waters in October. Whale watching tours run from Reykjavík, Akureyri, and Húsavík, with calmer seas than in winter and fewer crowds than in summer.

4. Glacier Hiking

Hiking on Iceland’s glaciers is truly an experience you don’t want to miss out on. It’s much easier to hike in October while the weather is still mild and enjoyable. You can book a tour to hike both Sólheimajökull glacier and Vatnajökull glacier. And don’t worry if it sounds daunting, there are a range of different hike lengths to suit all ages and skill levels.

5. Drive the Ring Road

While it’s always nice to take a guided tour, there’s really nothing like exploring Iceland via a self-drive tour. Renting a car and driving yourself gives you the freedom to explore Iceland at your own pace, and stop at the attractions that interest you and your group the most. If you’re going to do a self-drive tour of Iceland in October the best route to take is the Route 1 Ring Road. It’s well maintained and passes by most of the top destinations in the entire country.

If you drove the Route 1 Ring Road straight through it would take between 14 to 16 hours. But that would mean not stopping anywhere! If you only want to make limited stops we would still recommend around 7 days minimum to complete the loop. To really get the true Icelandic experience then it’s best to spend between 10 to 15 days driving the Ring Road. That way you can see every attraction without having to rush or worry about days with back weather.

Top Festivals and Events in Iceland in October

While October is quieter than summer, there are still unique cultural events to enjoy:

1. The Imagine Peace Tower

Created by Yoko Ono in memory of John Lennon, the Imagine Peace Tower is lit each year on Lennon’s birthday, October 9. The powerful beam of light shines from Viðey Island into the sky until December, symbolizing peace and hope. Powered by renewable energy, the tower is one of Iceland’s most striking art installations.

2. The Reykjavik International Film Festival (RIFF)

The Reykjavik International Film Festival runs every year, featuring films from 40 countries or more. It runs during the first week of October, so if you’re visiting during this time you’ll likely be able to catch some of it. The cost of the entire pass in 2025 is 25,500 ISK (approximately $210 USD), which will give you access to all shows, excluding special events. Beyond screenings, there are also workshops, live music shows and other exhibits. If you’re a film buff, then you don’t want to miss this! There are also discounted passes available for youth.

3. FAR Fest Africa Reykjavík

Held in Reykjavík each October, Far Fest Afrika celebrates African culture through music, dance, storytelling, and food. It’s an energetic and inclusive event that brings together artists and performers from Iceland and abroad, highlighting the country’s growing cultural diversity. Expect live drumming, dance workshops, and vibrant performances that bring a warm, rhythmic contrast to Iceland’s cool autumn nights.

4. Opera Days (Óperudagar)

Opera Days is Reykjavík’s annual festival dedicated to opera and classical vocal performance. The program spans traditional opera productions, chamber concerts, and contemporary works staged in both theaters and unconventional venues across the city. It’s a great opportunity to see Icelandic and international artists in an intimate setting while enjoying the capital’s cultural scene.

Suggested 7-Day Self-Drive Itinerary for Iceland in September

Day 1 – Reykjavík
Arrive in Reykjavík, explore Hallgrímskirkja and Harpa Concert Hall, and enjoy a cozy dinner downtown.

Day 2 – Golden Circle
Visit Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss. End with a soak in the Secret Lagoon.

Day 3 – South Coast Waterfalls and Beaches
See Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Reynisfjara Beach. Overnight near Vík.

Day 4 – Vatnajökull Region
Take a glacier hike in Skaftafell, then visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach. Overnight in Höfn.

Day 5 – Eastfjords to North Iceland
Drive through the Eastfjords and continue north to Lake Mývatn. Soak in the Mývatn Nature Baths.

Day 6 – Akureyri & Whale Watching
Explore Akureyri, then join a whale watching tour from the harbor.

Day 7 – Return to Reykjavík via West Iceland
Drive south, stopping at Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls before returning to Reykjavík. If your trip aligns, catch the Imagine Peace Tower lighting or Halloween festivities.

What Does Iceland in October Look Like?

October in Iceland is dramatic and colorful. Autumn foliage spreads across the lowlands, waterfalls thunder with seasonal rains, and nights sparkle with the northern lights. Mornings are misty, evenings are crisp, and hot springs feel especially inviting against the cool air. It’s a month of contrast: daylight shortening but still enough for adventure, nights growing long but filled with auroras, and landscapes shifting from summer’s green to winter’s white.

FAQs

• • Is the Blue Lagoon busy in October?
    Yes, the Blue Lagoon remains one of Iceland’s most popular attractions year-round. While October is quieter than summer, it still books up quickly, especially in the evenings when many travelers go after tours. Advance reservations are highly recommended.

 

• • Will you see northern lights in October in Iceland?
    Yes, October is the first full month of northern lights season. With dark nights and relatively mild weather, you have a good chance of spotting the aurora if skies are clear. Tours can improve your odds by taking you away from cloud cover and light pollution.

 

• • Is it dark all day in Iceland in October?
    No. October brings shorter days, but there’s still plenty of daylight. Early in the month you’ll get about 11 hours of daylight, and by the end closer to 8 hours. Nights are long, but not continuous.

 

• • How snowy is Iceland in October?
    Snow is rare in the south and lowlands during October, but it’s possible in the north, Eastfjords, and higher elevations. You’re more likely to see rain than snow, though light snowfall can happen later in the month.

 

• • Can you see puffins in October?
    No, puffins typically leave Iceland by late August to spend the winter at sea. October is outside their nesting season, so you’ll need to plan a summer trip if puffin watching is on your bucket list.

 

• • Are the roads icy in Iceland in October?
    On the main Ring Road and South Coast, icy roads are uncommon in October. However, in the north and Eastfjords, frost or light ice can appear, especially in the mornings or late evenings. Always check conditions at road.is before driving.

 

• • Can you see ice caves in October in Iceland?
    Yes. October marks the start of the ice cave season. Natural ice caves in Vatnajökull typically reopen in mid to late October once conditions are safe. Booking a guided tour is essential, as access depends on weather and glacier stability.

 

• • How rainy is Iceland in October?
    October is one of Iceland’s wetter months. Expect frequent showers, especially in the south and west. Rain is often light but persistent, so waterproof clothing is a must for outdoor adventures.

 

Ready to Explore Iceland in October?

Now that you’re prepped with all the information you need to visit Iceland in October it’s time to book your trip! With unbeatable prices on hotels, flights and rental cars, October is one of the best times of year to visit Iceland. Plus, you can still enjoy many of the summertime activities, with less tourist traffic. Make sure that you always book your rental car online, and in advance to ensure that the best option for you is available. Don’t forget to check out all our resources for tips for how to book the best rental car for your Iceland trip.

Rent a Car in Iceland Today!