Weather in Iceland in November: travel guide

November in Iceland brings the full onset of winter with shorter days, colder temperatures, and increased chances of snow. The weather in Iceland in November is characterized by rapidly changing conditions, from calm, clear skies to snowstorms within hours. Despite challenging weather, November includes unique experiences like Northern Lights viewing and fewer tourists at popular attractions.

Iceland in November at a glance

• Average temperatures range from 28°F to 39°F (-2°C to 4°C), though windchill can make it feel colder
• Good month for Northern Lights, hot springs, and winter landscapes without peak-season crowds
• Fewer tourists mean quieter experiences and potential savings on accommodation, though some rural services may be limited
• Weather can shift quickly, so it’s worth keeping plans flexible and packing proper winter gear

What's the weather like in November in Iceland?

In general, it'll be cold. Average temperatures in November range from about 30°F to 39°F (-1°C to 4°C). November in Iceland also means shorter days. Prepare for a mix of rain, snow, and clear skies. The weather can change rapidly, so it’s wise to be prepared for anything.

Rainfall averages around 3.2 inches (82 mm) for the month, usually spread out over 15 to 20 days. That means you’ll likely get some form of precipitation on most days, so waterproof layers are a good idea.

November can be a good time for an Iceland itinerary. While the weather can be intense, it also creates conditions that are great for certain experiences. One of the highlights of visiting Iceland in November is the increased chance of witnessing the Northern Lights. 
 

If you want help planning your trip, our local Iceland travel experts are local to the area and can create a customized itinerary just for you.

Average daily temperatures in November

November temperatures in Iceland vary quite a bit depending on where you are. Coastal areas tend to stay a little milder, while the interior highlands are much colder and often harder to access as winter sets in.

During the day, you can expect temperatures around 34 to 39°F (1 to 4°C). At night, it usually drops to about 28 to 32°F (-2 to 0°C). It’s colder than in the summer, of course, but not as harsh as what you’d get later in the winter.

The ocean temperature hovers around 46°F (8°C), so swimming without a wetsuit really isn’t a good idea. That said, the geothermal pools are still a big draw. These naturally heated pools and hot springs stay warm no matter the air temperature and are a great way to warm up after a day outside.

How to plan a trip to Iceland with the sunlight in mind? Daylight hours drop quickly as the month goes on. By late November, you’re looking at just 5 to 6 hours of usable daylight, so it’s worth planning your days around the light. On the plus side, the long nights mean better chances of seeing the Northern Lights, which usually become visible from around 6pm onward.
 

Is November a good time to visit Iceland?

If you're up for winter conditions and don’t mind shorter days, November can be the best time to visit Iceland to see a different side of the country. The weather definitely has its challenges, but it also brings some real advantages. With the right gear and a flexible plan, you can experience Iceland’s winter landscapes without the heavy crowds of summer.

This is when Northern Lights season really gets going. With darkness setting in around 5pm and lasting well into the morning, there’s a good window for sightings most nights. It’s also a great time to soak in hot pools. The cold air and warm water combo makes for a memorable experience.

Highland roads (F-roads) are usually closed by now, but the main Beltway is generally still open. That said, snowstorms and icy conditions can cause delays or closures, so it helps to leave some wiggle room in your schedule.

Why November is a good time to visit:

• Good timing for Northern Lights thanks to longer nights
• Fewer people at major attractions like waterfalls and geysers
• Great conditions for geothermal pools in chilly weather
• Early winter scenery for photography
• More local cultural events as people shift to indoor activities
   

What about the crowd and cost?

November usually falls just before the vacation rush, so it’s a good time for travelers looking to save a bit. Hotel rates often drop compared to the summer, and you’ll likely find better deals on tours and excursions too. Rental cars are cheaper as well, and most come with winter tires by default.

Tourist numbers are much lower this time of year, often below summer levels. That means places like Gullfoss, Geysir, and the Blue Lagoon are far less busy. Restaurants in Reykjavik are easier to get into, although in more remote areas, some places reduce hours or close altogether.

If your main priority is price, February and March usually have the lowest rates. If you’re looking for something a little warmer with fewer crowds than summer, September or early October might work better.
 

Where to go in Iceland in November

With shorter days in November, it helps to be strategic about where you go and how you plan your time. That said, the early winter light and quieter roads create a different kind of travel experience, and some parts of the country are especially well suited for this time of year. Here's some of the best places to visit in Iceland in November.

Reykjavik

The capital of Reykjavik is a great base in November. people local to the area tend to shift indoors, so you’ll find the city’s museums, cafés, and concert halls in full swing. Geothermal pools like Laugardalslaug stay warm year-round and are especially nice on colder days. November also kicks off Northern Lights season, and many tours depart right from the city. If the skies are clear, Hallgrímskirkja lit up at night is worth seeing. 

South Coast

This stretch is still very doable in November, especially for a short road trip from Reykjavik. You’ll get snow-dusted beaches at Reynisfjara and icy views of waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. These landscapes can change fast with the weather, so it’s good to keep some flexibility in your schedule. Since it's relatively close to Reykjavik, it works well with the limited daylight. 

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

This peninsula in the west packs a lot into a small area. You’ve got lava fields, beaches, cliffs, and mountains, all within a few hours’ drive. Kirkjufell might already have a light layer of snow, which makes it a good location if you're hoping to photograph the Northern Lights. In Snæfellsnes, towns like Arnarstapi and Hellnar feel quiet this time of year and give you a sense of everyday life during the colder months. 

Blue Lagoon and Reykjanes Peninsula

The Reykjanes Peninsula is easy to reach from the airport or Reykjavik and has some really dramatic volcanic scenery. The landscape feels even more otherworldly in winter light. This is where the Blue Lagoon is located, and sitting in the warm water while it’s cold outside is genuinely relaxing. Just make sure to book ahead. 

Akureyri and North Iceland

If you’re hoping for snow, the north is usually your best bet in November. Akureyri is Iceland’s second-largest town and a good base for exploring the region. The nearby Lake Myvatn area is worth the drive for its geothermal activity and lava formations, and the Myvatn Nature Baths are a nice alternative to the more crowded Blue Lagoon. The Northern Lights are often easier to see up here too, thanks to longer nights and clearer skies. 

What to do in Iceland in November

November in Iceland leans into winter, but it’s still a flexible time for getting out into nature and enjoying the quieter pace before peak season. You’ll want to pack warm layers and stay on top of weather updates, but with the right prep, November can be a really memorable time to visit. Here are some of the best things to do in Iceland in November. 

Hunt for the Northern Lights

Long nights in November mean good conditions for seeing the aurora, especially if the skies stay clear. Temperatures aren’t as harsh as they get in deep winter, which makes it easier to spend a few hours outside at night. You can join a tour with guides who track real-time aurora forecasts, or rent a car and follow the cloud radar on your own. The lights can show up any time between 6 pm and 6 am, though the clearest views are usually in remote areas well away from town. See our guide to the best places to the see the Northern Lights in Iceland. 

Soak in hot springs

There’s something really satisfying about getting into a hot pool when the air is cold. You’ll find plenty of options besides the Blue Lagoon. The Secret Lagoon near the Golden Circle is quieter, Sky Lagoon is just outside Reykjavik, and if you’re up for a short hike, Reykjadalur has a warm river where you can bathe out in nature. Just be prepared for slippery trails and chilly changes of clothes afterward. 
 

Explore Iceland’s ice caves

November is the start of ice cave season, especially under glaciers like Vatnajökull. These caves only exist in winter and shift constantly, so you’ll need to go with a licensed guide. Tours usually include the gear you need, like helmets and crampons. Early in the month, availability can be limited, so it’s smart to book ahead. If you're into photography, this is one of the more surreal experiences you can have in Iceland.

Iceland Airwaves

If you're around at the beginning of the month, the Iceland Airwaves music festival is worth checking out. It turns venues all over Reykjavik into concert spaces and brings in both local and international musicians. It’s a great way to experience the creative side of the city while the weather keeps you indoors a bit more.

Drive the Golden Circle 

The Golden Circle is still doable in November, as long as roads are clear. It’s an easy day trip from Reykjavik and includes Þingvellir National Park, the geysers at Haukadalur, and Gullfoss waterfall. The daylight hours are shorter, but that actually works in your favor for photography since you get long golden hours and sometimes see sunrise and sunset on the same trip. Just check conditions before heading out and give yourself extra time on the roads. This is often done as a detour during a Beltway itinerary. 
 

Planning your itinerary

In November, daylight is limited and weather shifts fast, but the landscapes are still dramatic. Plan for shorter drives, indoor breaks, and flexible routes in case roads close due to snow or wind.

• Iceland itinerary 5 days: You could base yourself in Reykjavík and take day trips. The Golden Circle is doable in one day. Add the Blue Lagoon, a South Coast tour, or chase the Northern Lights near Þingvellir.
• Iceland itinerary 10 days: Start in Reykjavík, then drive the South Coast with stops at waterfalls and black-sand beaches. Spend a few days in the southeast near Höfn or Vatnajökull. Circle back slowly with time to explore inland if roads allow.
• Iceland itinerary 14 days: You might drive the full Beltway, depending on weather. Allow extra time around the east fjords and north. If conditions are rough, stay longer in the south and add quieter areas like Snæfellsnes Peninsula or Westman Islands.