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Dive into the dramatic landscapes of Iceland this October and experience a confluence of long daylight hours, enchanting Northern Lights, and wide-open roads, all before the deep freeze of winter sets in.
Hi there!
I’m your go-to semi-budget traveler and diligent travel planner – the mom who can spot a deal a mile away but never shies away from splurging on unforgettable experiences.
Over the years, I’ve mastered the art of balancing thrift and adventure, exploring the world’s most fantastic destinations without breaking the bank.
October in Iceland? We went, and it was awe-inspiring!
Now, I’m here to share my insider tips, from the best time to catch the Northern Lights to where to find food on a budget.
Buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a virtual journey to the land of fire and ice, with so many things to do in Iceland in October!
Trust me, by the time you’re done with this post, you’ll be booking your flight faster than you can say “Bónus!
SBT Highlights
- October is an optimal time to visit Iceland, offering longer daylight hours for explorations and dark enough nights to potentially witness the breathtaking Northern Lights.
- Despite the cooler temperatures, most of the roadways remain accessible, and popular attractions, including the Westfjords and various glacier tours, continue operating.
- Preparing for Iceland’s October weather necessitates dressing in warm layers and waterproof gear, but for those accustomed to winter climates, acclimatizing should be straightforward.
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Things to Do in Iceland in October
If you’re looking for things to do in Iceland in October, you’re in luck!
This beautiful country is packed with adventure activities and natural wonders that are perfect for exploring in the fall.
Whether you’re into hiking, biking, or sightseeing, Iceland has something for everyone.
So, pack your bags, and get ready to explore one of the most amazing countries on Earth!
1) Explore Reykjavik
Iceland’s capital city of Reykjavik is a city filled with Viking history, amazing restaurants, and splendid shopping. It’s also home to many cultural events, outdoor activities, museums, and art galleries.
October is one of the best times to visit, because you’ll be able to experience Iceland’s winter without enduring the extreme cold.
While it will be chilly, you’ll still be able to participate in plenty of different activities.
Be sure to check out the Sun Voyager and Þúfa.
2) Go Whale Watching
There are several different whale watching tours available during October.
You can expect to see minke and humpback whales on your trip.
This is a big draw for those looking to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
You’ll also possibly have the opportunity to go bird watching and enjoy stunning views of Iceland’s coast.
3) Go Horse Back Riding
Horse riding tours are another great way to explore Iceland in style, and many of them include an extra activity like hiking.
Whether you’re looking to gallop across lava fields or just enjoy some panoramic views, riding an Icelandic horse just might need to be part of your itinerary.
4) Explore the Westfjords
The Westfjords are an incredible gem of Iceland that are often overlooked by tourists.
This area is full of cliffs, waterfalls, glaciers, lagoons, mountains, and more natural phenomena than you can count on one hand.
To get to the Westfjords, you’ll want to rent a car in Reykjavik and either drive yourself or take a bus.
There are several companies that provide tours of the area, but you can also organize your own itinerary.
Don’t miss this under-appreciated corner of Iceland!
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5) Check Out the Northern Lights
The aurora borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, is one of Iceland’s most famous attractions.
It’s difficult to predict when these lights will be visible and how bright they’ll be, but you’ll definitely want to try and catch a glimpse, if at all possible.
You can book a Northern Lights tour that provides transportation to a location where the lights are possibly more visible.
This, however, will cost you.
We were able to see the Northern Lights from our place of lodging in the suburbs of Reykjavik.
Your best chance of seeing the Northern Lights will be to visit Iceland during the time of a new moon.
The skies need to be as free from light pollution as possible.
In order to see this natural phenomenon, there will also need to be clear skies, with little to no cloud cover.
6) Explore Snæfellsnes Peninsula
This peninsula is famous for its glaciers, mountains, wildlife, lava fields, and waterfalls.
It’s a great place to explore by foot, bike, or rental car.
The peninsula is also considered an important habitat for various birds.
The area offers lots of freedom for tourists, because it’s mostly untouched by civilization, which means fewer crowds!
7) Check Out the Golden Circle
This is a popular route in Iceland that takes you past some of the country’s most famous natural phenomena.
The tourist spots along this route include Þingvellir (Thingvellir National Park), Geysir, and Gullfoss.
There are tour companies that take people along this route, but you can also rent a car or take your own day tour excursions.
The best way is to plan your own Golden Circle Tour.
On your one-day road trip, make sure to check out the following popular attractions:
- Þingvellir
- Efstidalur
- Gullfoss
- Friðheimar Greenhouse Restaurant
- feeding an Icelandic horse
- Geysir/Strokkur Geothermal Area
- Skálholt
- Kerið Crater
8) Relax at the Blue Lagoon
Located in south Iceland, the Blue Lagoon is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the country.
The geothermal pool contains silica and sulfur that help to soothe and rejuvenate your skin.
It’s a great place to relax after a long day exploring the island (or really any time!).
Our review of the Blue Lagoon includes detailed information about visiting this location, including various tips and how to take care of your hair after swimming.
9) Local Pools
Most Icelanders prefer to use the local swimming pools rather than the crowded Blue Lagoon. (P.S. They’re way cheaper, too!)
When you visit one of these facilities, be sure to bring your own towel, soap, and toiletries.
Be ready to shower completely naked, in view of other patrons.
It’s no big deal for Icelanders, so again, be ready!
The local pools are some of the best places to live like the locals in Iceland.
Our favorite in Reykjavik is Laugardalslaug, which has a huge geothermal pool with water slides, as well as several smaller heated pools.
We had the best time, just lounging in the hot tubs and playing on the water slides!
10) Try Icelandic Food
Icelandic food is delicious, but it’s not usually what you’d expect.
Dishes are typically completed by potatoes, rye bread, or mutton.
If you’d like to try some traditional Icelandic food at a reasonable price, check out the restaurant called Icelandic Street Food.
Other items to try are: skyr, kleina, and snúður.
11) Book a Boat Tour
There are many different boat tours that provide transportation to numerous Iceland attractions.
Some of the most popular boat routes include those that take you past icebergs, whales, or puffins.
12) Glacier Hike
Hiking on glaciers isn’t an activity for the faint of heart, but it’s one that will definitely provide you with some incredible views.
If you want to try something a little less intense than hiking atop a glacier directly, you can take a Zodiac boat trip that circles around the edge of the glacier instead.
13) Explore Reykjanes Peninsula
This peninsula in southwest Iceland is full of geological wonders like volcanoes, hot springs, and lava fields.
Be sure to check out the following:
- Bridge Between Continents
- Gunnuhver Geothermal Area
- Seltún Geothermal Area
14) Waterfalls
Waterfalls are beautiful and impressive forces of nature. Some popular ones in the south coast area include the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls.
Make sure to wear a waterproof jacket and waterproof pants, unless you want to get soaked through!
15) Turf Houses
The turf houses that Icelanders used to live in have been preserved for visitors who want to learn more about the country’s history.
These sod-covered structures often consist of a long, rectangular room with a fireplace and a window.
16) Imagine Peace Tower Lighting
This international memorial for John Lennon is located on Viðey Island.
It’s lit up at night at various times throughout the year, but October 9 is an especially important date, as it marks Lennon’s birthday.
People can see it from miles away, including from the Sun Voyager sculpture.
17) Concerts at Harpa
Harpa is a concert hall and conference center in Reykjavik.
There are loads of concerts here, including some with Icelandic artists.
This is a great way to support local musicians and enjoy some world-class entertainment at the same time.
18) Black Sand Beach
If you want something a bit more unique, consider visiting one of Iceland’s black sand beaches.
These aren’t common in most other countries, since the lava that made them wasn’t cooled down enough to form solid rock.
You can find some incredibly dark stretches of sand on this island!
Reynisfjara black sand beach is one of the most popular.
The beach also features some amazing basalt stacks.
Beware of the infamous “sneaker waves.”
Thankfully, nothing tragic occurred when we were there, but we did see a group of people get caught off-guard by a wave that soaked them up to their knees.
19) Viking History
Visit the Viking Settlement Exhibition and/or Viking World to learn more about Iceland’s history.
These museums contain exhibits that help visitors to understand the past.
At the Settlement Exhibition, there’s an interactive display where children can dress up like Vikings, create their own shields, try out their archery skills, and learn how to play a Viking board game.
20) Scenic Hike
If you’re a nature lover and a fan of scenic hikes, look for one of Iceland’s many hiking trails.
There are so many beautiful places to choose from, and you might even come across the island’s most popular Icelandic horses .
They’re an important part of its history and culture.
21) Ring Road
An incredible way to see the island is by driving along its famous Ring Road.
This road circles the entire country.
While you drive, keep your eyes peeled for waterfalls, glaciers, and active volcanoes!
Don’t forget that you can also stop to take photos or enjoy a meal at one of the country’s many restaurants.
22) Hallgrímskirkja
Iceland’s most distinctive church is a Lutheran cathedral located in the center of Reykjavik, called Hallgrímskirkja.
It was designed by one of Iceland’s most famous artists and architects , Guðjón Samúelsson, who also created many other beautiful buildings throughout the country.
This building has a terrace that offers incredible views of the city.
23) Icelandic Souvenirs
Are you thinking about some inexpensive souvenirs to purchase on your Iceland trip?
Two of our favorite (and cheap!) souvenirs are reusable shopping bags and licorice candy.
When you’re shopping at the discount Bonus grocery stores in Iceland, buy a few of their reusable shopping bags.
They’re cheap, lightweight, packable, and you’ll be reminded of your trip to Iceland every time you use the bags back home.
Also, bring home a few bags of licorice candy.
Specifically, try the Freyja brand Djúpur candy. It’s kind of like M&Ms with black licorice in the middle!
Ways to Save Money in Iceland in October
Here are 4 ways to save some money, when you visit Iceland in October:
- Rental cars are not cheap in Iceland, but I found a discount code for Blue Car Rental by searching around online.
- Don’t eat out (at least, don’t eat out a lot). Go grocery shopping at Bonus grocery stores, and eat in. You will save a ton of money!
- Limit your paid excursions. Do “self-drive” tours instead!
- Many attractions in Iceland are FREE (or much cheaper) for kids, so make it a family trip!
Driving in Iceland in October
Driving in Iceland is about as easy as driving in the United States.
The roads are well maintained.
The island has a population of just over 360,000 people, so traffic can still be pretty sparse in some areas, if you’re looking to avoid it!
In October, most car rental companies in Iceland haven’t yet outfitted the cars with snow tires.
Make sure to check the road conditions, if you’re concerned about inclement weather.
Iceland October Daylight Hours
October in Iceland has very long daylight hours.
At the beginning of October, there are 10-11 hours of daylight each day.
So again, you’ve got lots of daylight for seeing the amazing sites of Iceland, as well as a good amount of night sky for trying to see the Northern Lights!
What to Wear in Iceland in October
October in Iceland is similar to October weather in many other places.
The average lows are around 34F, while highs are usually between 45-50F.
Keep in mind that there’s wind chill, as well.
If you want to be prepared for any situation, make sure you bring a waterproof jacket, gloves, hat, scarf, long underwear, and warm boots.
In other words, warm layers is the way to go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is October a good time to go to Iceland?
Yes, October is a great month to visit Iceland.
The days are long enough for you to have a full itinerary, and the nights are dark enough for you to be able to see the Northern Lights.
The majority of roads are still accessible, including areas such as the Westfjords.
Many summer tours run until snow blocks the roads.
October is the shoulder season in Iceland, so you’ll possibly have less other tourists to contend with, too!
Check out our easy one-week Iceland itinerary!
How cold is Iceland in October?
The weather in Iceland in October can range from clear, crisp days, to rainy, blustery days.
But it’s rarely cold enough for snow, at least in the south.
This means you can still visit many of your favorite outdoor attractions such as waterfalls, swimming holes, looking for the Northern Lights, and much more.
The average temperature in October in Iceland is approximately a High of 42F and a Low of 34F. The temperature ranges are as follows:
- Highs = range from 34-54F
- Lows = range from 25-47F
Does it snow in Iceland in October?
Yes, it does snow in Iceland in October, although most of the sites on the beaten path will still be easily accessible.
You might also want to consider renting a 4×4 vehicle if you’d like the option of touring glaciers or other areas that may be inaccessible during October.
Make sure to check the weather conditions before heading out each day.
Can you see the Northern Lights in October in Iceland?
Yes, it is possible to see the Northern Lights in Iceland during October.
However, there are no guarantees that you’ll be able to see them during your trip.
If you want to maximize your chances of seeing these incredible lights, you can book tours with companies who offer overnight trips.
This way, you’ll be outside for as much time as possible and can give yourself the best chances of catching a glimpse of this incredible phenomenon.
Tours are, of course, not cheap, so plan your trip budget accordingly.
What is Iceland like in October?
October in Iceland is very pleasant.
It’s not cold enough for snow (unless you’re up in the mountains), but it’s still chilly.
If you don’t mind temperatures that are colder than average, visiting Iceland during October will be a great time for you.
The weather is usually very nice, the sun will often be out, and there’s a chance you might be able to see the Northern Lights.
It’s really a great time of year to be in Iceland, and if you’re used to winter weather back home, you won’t have any problem acclimating to Iceland. (For those of us from SoCal, etc., it’s a different story!)
SBT Summary: Things to Do in Iceland in October
October is a great time to visit Iceland for many reasons.
One of the most significant benefits of visiting in October is that there are long daylight hours which make it easy to explore and see all the sights you might want to see during your trip.
The weather can range from blustery to crisp, but it’s not usually too cold or snowy enough where roads will be blocked by snow.
It may also still allow you some chance of seeing the Northern Lights.
October really is one of the best months to visit Iceland!
Take this opportunity now before winter sets in!
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