Iceland in July or in October - which makes the better first trip?

Destinations Iceland
1

We’re a couple planning our first trip to Iceland and torn between July for the long days and green, or October for fewer crowds and a chance of the lights. We only get to do this once for a while and want the right season. Has anyone been in both and can tell us which one to choose?

2

Hi Patrick!
I totally fell in love with Iceland this summer on my first trip. I had high expectations for the island, and was still completely blown away! I thought this was a once in a lifetime trip for me, but I can’t put it out of my mind, and am planning another visit in a different season due to just how much it changes between the months.
What are you planning on doing while in Iceland? July, as you’ve said, brings long green days and you’ll likely see Whales and Puffins if you go then, but the long days mean there is next to no chance of the Northern Lights.
The weather is probably better for long drives if you plan on exploring far beyond Iceland, so if you aren’t familiar or confident with this type of driving, and aren’t taking a guided tour then this would be my recommendation.
October has much less chance of whales, and I think the puffins would already have left but on the other hand the nights are longer so you’d hopefully see the Aurora. I think the Ice Caves and Glacier hikes start to become available then too which are incredible.
Either way, Iceland is cold, even in the summer, so I wouldn’t factor this into my decision making too much!
I hope you have an incredible time, and maybe I’ll see you there!

3

So here in my opinion,July makes far better for a first trip. October is great for the Northern Lights and quieter roads, but the weather is much more unpredictable and the days starts to get shorter. In July, you get those really long daylight hours, so there’s much more time to explore, and the Highlands are generally more accessible.

October could be saved for your return trip if you want a different experience. For a first visit, July gives you a better chance of seeing more without the weather and shorter days getting in the way.