Explore Iceland

Cheapest and Most Expensive Times To Visit Iceland

Searching for the cheapest and most expensive times to visit Iceland? This guide has you covered and will help you plan when to go based on your travel budget.

Most Expensive Time to Visit Iceland

The most expensive time to visit Iceland is during its peak travel seasons, when long daylight hours, better weather, and major holidays or festivals attract huge numbers of visitors. Flight, hotel, and rental car prices climb sharply during these months, and availability is often limited.

Summer (June to August)
Iceland’s busiest and most expensive season. With nearly 24 hours of daylight, pleasant weather, and full access to the Highlands and coastal routes, it’s when most tourists arrive. Prices for flights, car rentals, and hotels are at their peak.
Adding to the expense, summer also coincides with major festivals and cultural events that further drive demand:
- Secret Solstice Festival (mid-June, Reykjavík) – an international music festival held under the midnight sun.
- Viking Festival (mid-June, Hafnarfjörður) – a historical reenactment and craft fair attracting many visitors.
- Iceland’s National Day (June 17) – celebrated nationwide with parades, concerts, and street fairs.
- Þjóðhátíð (early August, Westman Islands) – one of Iceland’s biggest festivals, with concerts, fireworks, and bonfires.

Reykjavik Culture Night (late August) – brings over 100,000 people to the city for concerts, exhibitions, and fireworks.

Late December (Christmas and New Year’s)
The holiday season is another costly time to visit. Demand surges as travelers flock to Iceland for festive celebrations, winter activities, and the chance to see the Northern Lights. Hotels, tours, and flights are often booked far in advance at premium rates.
Early November (Reykjavik Airwaves)
While November is generally part of Iceland’s low season, the Reykjavik Airwaves music festival draws thousands of international visitors. For this week, hotels and flights into Reykjavík spike in cost.

Cheapest Time to Visit Iceland

The cheapest time to visit Iceland align with off‑peak seasons when tourism slows, and prices for flights, hotels, and rentals drop considerably.

Shoulder Seasons (May and September–October)
These months offer a smart compromise between price and decent daylight/weather. Demand—and thus prices—for travel and accommodation are typically lower than in summer.
Some travelers confirm this trend, noting: “shoulder season (May or October) is the best compromise for pricing and day length.
Low Season (November to April, excluding holidays)
More economical travel options are available during the colder months, especially if you avoid major holidays like Christmas and Easter. Flights, lodging, and rentals are at their most affordable.
Late Fall, Winter, and Spring (October–May, outside holiday peaks)
Broader off‑peak periods encompassing late fall, winter, and spring (with the exception of Christmas/New Year) consistently deliver lower prices for virtually all travel components.

Price Summary Table for Iceland Travel

Time Period	Price Level	Why It Matters
June – August	Highest	Peak summer season—long days, mild weather, high demand.
Late December (Holiday Season)	Very High	Festive travels spike demand—limited availability and higher costs.
May & September – October	Moderate	Shoulder seasons—more favorable pricing and reasonable daylight/weather.
November – April (excluding holidays)	Lowest	Low season—colder months with fewer tourists, best bargains.

How To Save Money When Visiting Iceland

Being strategic about timing can significantly reduce your travel expenses. Here are some practical tips:

Opt for shoulder or low‑season travel—May, September, or winter months offer the best value without sacrificing the experience.
Book flights and hotels in advance—especially if traveling in shoulder months as availability can diminish.(Cozy Campers, Travel + Leisure)
Explore budget accommodations—staying in hostels or guesthouses often allows savings on lodging and food.(Reddit)
Travel slightly outside holiday periods—even within cheaper seasons, avoid dates surrounding Christmas and New Year.(Responsible Vacation)
Consider tours or combo packages—these can bundle attractions and transport at lower cost.(Guide to Iceland)

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