Spring in Iceland is a time of awakening and transformation. After the long and dark winter, Iceland bursts into life with vibrant colours, new growth and exciting opportunities for exploration. From continued Northern Lights sightings to the arrival of migratory birds, there are many reasons to visit Iceland in the spring.
Why Visit in the Spring?
Spring is the perfect time to visit Iceland for those who want to experience the country's natural beauty at its best. The snow starts to melt, revealing a lush green landscape adorned with colourful wildflowers, the weather is mild and the days get longer, providing ample time for outdoor activities. At this time of year, you can also expect fewer crowds and lower prices than the peak summer season, meaning you can enjoy Iceland's many natural wonders and cultural attractions all to yourself.
Iceland in March
March marks the beginning of spring in Iceland, and while the weather can still be unpredictable, it is a time of transformation as the snow begins to melt and the landscape starts to awaken. One of the highlights of visiting Iceland in March is the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights, which are still visible in the dark skies. It is also the time when the Icelandic horses start giving birth, a magical sight that can be witnessed on various farms around the country. Another significant event in March is Reykjavik's Beer Festival, where you can taste a wide range of local craft beers from different breweries in Iceland.
Iceland in April
April is an exciting time to visit Iceland, as the country fully emerges from the long winter and the landscape starts to bloom with colourful flowers. One of the most significant events in April is Easter, a major holiday in Iceland which is celebrated with traditions like decorating Easter eggs, gathering around crackling bonfires and sharing a special Easter feast of roast lamb drizzled with pepper sauce and accompanied with sugar-glazed potatoes and vegetable such as green beans. April is also the start of the puffin breeding season, and you can witness these seabirds nesting on various cliffs around the country.
Iceland in May
As spring makes way for summer, May is a month of vibrant landscapes and blooming flowers. The weather is warm and the days are longer, so May is an excellent time for hiking and exploring Iceland's numerous hiking trails, including the famous Laugavegur Trek in the south of the country which runs from the Landmannalaugar geothermal springs to the Þórsmörk nature reserve and takes you past gorges, glaciers and colourful rhyolite mountains. May is also a great time to visit Iceland's many hot springs and geothermal pools, such as the Blue Lagoon, as the weather is perfect for soaking in the warm water.
Top Spring Experiences in Iceland
Spring in Iceland is a beautiful time to visit with popular attractions beginning to open up around the country ahead of summer season. The Golden Circle, one of Iceland's most popular tourist routes, is quieter at this time of year without the summer crowds, and Reykjavik, the vibrant capital, has plenty of museums, galleries, restaurants and bars to explore. Spring is also the start of the whale watching season in Iceland, and on boat tours you can see various whale species, including humpback whales and orcas.
Key events and festivals in Iceland in spring
From golf tournaments and the Great Fish Day, to the Reykjavik Folk Festival and DesignMarch, spring in Iceland offers an array of exciting, unusual and traditional Icelandic events and festivals. One of the most significant holidays in Iceland in spring is Easter, celebrated through food and traditional festivities, but spring is also a time of live music, food tastings, drinking and family-friendly activities. If you’re lucky, you might even be invited to celebrate like a local.
