Visiting Iceland in September gives you a little bit of both summer and autumn. There is still enough daylight for road trips and sightseeing, temperatures are generally milder than in winter, and the darker nights mean the Northern Lights season in Iceland has begun.
September can also be a good month for an Iceland road trip. Most of the country’s main attractions are accessible, while some Highland roads may still be open during the earlier part of the month depending on weather and road conditions.
In this guide, we cover Iceland weather in September, average temperatures, Northern Lights, what to wear, driving conditions, rental cars and the best things to do in Iceland in September.
Iceland in September at a Glance
| Iceland in September | What to expect |
| Average daytime temperature | Around 9–12°C (48–54°F) |
| Average nighttime temperature | Around 4–7°C (39–45°F) |
| Daylight | Around 11-14 hours depending on the date |
| Northern Lights | Possible |
| Snow | Possible, especially later in September |
| Ring Road | Normally accessible, weather permitting |
| Golden Circle | Normally accessible |
| Highlands/F-roads | Some may be open early in the month; closures become more likely as autumn progress |
| Best rental car | Depends on your route and destinations |
| Weather | Cool, windy and changeable |
What is the Weather Like in Iceland in September?
Iceland weather in September is cool and very changeable. You can experience sunshine, rain, strong wind and colder conditions during the same trip.
September is the transition from Icelandic summer into autumn. Conditions tend to be milder at the beginning of the month, while temperatures usually become cooler as October approaches.
The weather can also vary significantly between different parts of Iceland. Conditions in Reykjavík may be completely different from those on the South Coast, in North Iceland or in the Highlands.
That is why travelers should always check the weather forecast and road conditions before setting out on an Iceland road trip.
Iceland Temperature in September
The average temperature in Iceland in September is generally around:
- Average high: approximately 11°C (52°F)
- Average low: approximately 6°C (43°F)
These are averages rather than guaranteed temperatures. Wind and rain can make it feel considerably colder, particularly when you’re spending a lot of time outdoors.
Iceland Weather in Early September
Early September in Iceland is generally the milder part of the month.
Temperatures can reach around 12°C (54°F) during the day and fall to around 7°C (45°F) at night.
There is still plenty of daylight for sightseeing, hiking and road trips, making early September a good time for travelers who want to visit after the main summer months.
Iceland Weather in Late September
By late September, temperatures usually become cooler.
Average temperatures can be around 9°C (48°F) during the day and 4°C (39°F) at night.
Cold weather, frost and even early snowfall are possible, particularly in northern Iceland, mountainous areas and at higher elevations.
The advantage? The nights are also getting longer, giving you more darkness for potentially seeing the Northern Lights.
Is September a Good Time to Visit Iceland?
Yes. September can be one of the best months to visit Iceland if you want a combination of road trips, autumn landscapes and a chance of seeing the Northern Lights.
here is still enough daylight to explore many of Iceland’s major attractions, including the Golden Circle, South Coast, Snæfellsnes Peninsula and Ring Road.
Another advantage is the changing landscape. Vegetation begins turning shades of yellow, orange and red as Iceland moves into autumn.
However, travelers should be prepared for more unpredictable weather than during midsummer.
Can You See the Northern Lights in Iceland in September?
Yes, you can see the Northern Lights in Iceland in September.
Aurora season begins as properly dark nights return towards the end of summer. Your chances generally improve as September progresses because the nights become longer.
However, seeing the aurora is never guaranteed.
You generally need:
- Dark skies
- Limited cloud cover
- Aurora activity
- Low light pollution
Popular places for Northern Lights road trips from Reykjavík include Þingvellir National Park, the Reykjanes Peninsula and areas around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
If you’re traveling farther around Iceland, places such as Jökulsárlón and other rural areas can also offer very dark skies.
Tip from Firefly🚗: Check the Icelandic Met Office’s aurora and weather forecasts before leaving. Clear skies are just as important as aurora activity.
How Many Hours of Daylight Does Iceland Get in September?
One of the biggest changes during September is the rapidly decreasing daylight.
At the beginning of September, Iceland still has around 14 hours of daylight, while towards the end of the month it is closer to 11–12 hours.
That still gives travelers plenty of time for sightseeing and road trips, while the increasingly dark evenings create opportunities to look for the Northern Lights.
If you’re planning a long driving day, always check sunrise and sunset times for your exact travel dates.
What to Wear in Iceland in September
Wondering what to wear in Iceland in September? Layers and waterproof outerwear are the most important things to pack.
Weather can change quickly, so your clothing should allow you to add or remove layers throughout the day.
Iceland September Packing List
For outdoor activities, consider packing:
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Warm wool socks
- Thermal base layers
- Fleece sweater and pants
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof pants
- Light puffy coat with a hoodie
- Waterproof gloves
- Scarf or Buff
- Warm Hat
Other useful items include:
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Swimsuit
- Flip-flops for swimming pools
- Backpack
- Portable power banks
- Reusable water bottle
Waterproof hiking boots are a particularly useful choice if you’re planning waterfalls, hiking trails or longer outdoor stops.
Driving in Iceland in September
Driving in Iceland in September is usually easier than during the middle of winter, but conditions can still change quickly.
Most travelers will find Iceland’s main paved routes accessible, including the Ring Road, Golden Circle and South Coast.
However, rain, strong wind, frost and early snow can affect driving conditions, particularly later in the month.
Before driving each day:
- Check current road conditions
- Check the weather forecast
- Allow extra travel time
- Avoid driving into severe weather
- Adjust your speed to the conditions
- Pay attention to wind warninga
Never assume that the weather at your accommodation will be at your next destination.
Do You Need a 4×4 in Iceland in September?
You don’t automatically need a 4×4 for Iceland in September. It depends on your route, destinations and current road conditions.
For a typical trip covering Reykjavík, the Golden Circle and South Coast on paved roads, a 2WD rental car can often be suitable when conditions are good.
A 4×4 rental car in Iceland may be a better choice if you’re planning longer road trips, traveling to more remote areas or want a vehicle better suited to changing autumn conditions.
If your itinerary includes an F-road, you must use an approved 4×4 vehicle.
F-roads lead into Iceland’s Highlands and are only open during the summer travel season. Some may remain open into September, but closing dates depend entirely on weather and road conditions.
Never plan a September Highlands trip based only on the calendar. Check whether your intended roads are officially open before travelling.
Tip from Firefly 🚗: Check current Iceland road conditions before every journey, particularly if you’re traveling outside the main tourist routes.
Cheap Car Rental in Iceland in September
If you’re looking for cheap car rental in Iceland, September can be a good time to compare your options.
Firefly Iceland specialises in affordable car rental in Iceland, with vehicle choices for different road trips, group sizes and budgets.
Before booking your Iceland rental car, think about:
- Number of passengers
- Amount of luggage
- Automatic or manual transmission
- Destinations on you itinerary
- Expected road conditions
- Whether your route includes F-roads
Booking ahead also gives you a better selection of available vehicle groups.
Which Firefly Rental Car is Right for Your September Trip?
Economy Rental Car
A small 2WD rental car can be a budget-friendly option for travelers staying primary on paved roads.
Best for:
- Solo travelers or couples
- Reykjavík
- Golden Circle
- South Coast
- Shorter road trips
- Light luggage
A 2WD vehicle cannot be driven on F-roads.
Cheap 4×4 Rental Cars
A 4×4 rental in Iceland gives you more options when planning your road trip, particularly if you’re traveling beyond the main paved routes.
Best for:
- Longer Iceland road trips
- More remote destinations
- Changing autumn conditions
- Routes involving F-roads, where permitted
- Travelers who want additional space
Remember that having a 4×4 does not make every road accessible. Always follow road closures and check that your specific rental vehicle is permitted on the roads you intend to drive.
Best Things to Do in Iceland in September
September offers a mix of activities normally associated with both Iceland’s summer and autumn seasons.
Here are some of the best things to do in Iceland in September.
1. Hunt for the Northern Lights
With dark nights returning, September marks the beginning of the main Northern Lights season.
Renting a car gives you the flexibility to leave areas with heavy cloud cover or light pollution when conditions allow.
Remember that aurora activity and Icelandic weather are unpredictable, so give yourself several nights if seeing the Northern Lights is a priority.
2. Drive the Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is one of the easiest road trips to include in a September Iceland itinerary.
The main attractions are:
- Þingvellir National Park
- Geysir Geothermal Area
- Gullfoss waterfall
The route can be completed as a day trip from Reykjavík, although having your own rental car lets you stop at additional attractions along the way.
3. Take a South Coast Road Trip
September is also a great time to explore Iceland’s South Coast.
Popular stops include:
- Seljalandsfoss
- Skógafoss
- Reynisfjara
- Vík
- Jökulsárlón
- Diamond Beach
If you’re traveling all the way to Jökulsárlón from Reykjavík, consider staying overnight rather than trying to fit everything into one very long day.
4. Drive the Ring Road
If you have around a week or longer, September can still be a good time to drive Iceland’s Ring Road.
Route 1 circles most of Iceland and connects many of the country’s best-known destinations.
Highlights can include:
- South Coast waterfalls
- Jökulsárlón
- East Iceland
- Lake Mývatn
- Akureyri
- North Iceland
Weather becomes increasingly important later in September, so build some flexibility into your itinerary.
5. Go Hiking
Many hiking routes can still be accessible in September, particularly earlier in the month.
However, conditions vary considerably by location and elevation. Remote Highland and mountain trails may become inaccessible as autumn weather arrives.
Choose trails according to current weather and trail conditions rather than assuming summer access will continue throughout September.
6. Go Whale Watching
Whale-watching tours operate from several destinations around Iceland.
September is still within the main whale-watching season at many locations, although wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed.
Popular departure points include Reykjavík, Húsavík and Akureyri.
7. Look for Puffins Early in September
September is at the very end of Iceland’s puffin season.
Most puffins begin leaving Iceland toward the end of summer, so sightings become increasingly unlikely as September progresses.
If seeing puffins is one of the main reasons for your trip, summer is a better time to visit.
8. Visit an Icelandic Hot Spring or Swimming Pool
Cool September weather makes geothermal water even more inviting.
You can visit well-known geothermal spas or stop at one of Iceland’s local swimming pools.
If you are visiting a natural hot spring, check local access rules and conditions before traveling there.
Iceland Highlands in September
Travel to the Icelandic Highlands in September requires extra planning.
F-roads are summer roads and begin closing as weather conditions deteriorate. There is no single date when every F-road closes.
If you’re considering a Highlands trip:
- Check whether the road is officially open
- Use an approved 4×4
- Check weather conditions
- Never drive around road closure signs
- Do not drive off-road
- Check your rental vehicle’s restrictions
River crossings can also be extremely dangerous and should never be attempted without understanding the conditions and capabilities of your vehicle.
If Highlands roads have already closed, there are plenty of alternatives accessible from Iceland’s main road network.
September Events in Iceland
September also has several cultural events.
Ljósanótt, or the Night of Lights, takes place in Reykjanesbær and marks the transition towards Iceland’s darker season with cultural events and entertainment.
Reykjavík also hosts the Reykjavík International Film Festival (RIFF) around this time of year.
Event dates can change each year, so check the official schedule for your travel dates.
Tips for Visiting Iceland in September
A few simple preparations can make your September Iceland road trip much easier:
- Book your rental car in advance. September remains a popular travel month.
- Pack waterproof clothing. Don’t rely only on the temperature forecast.
- Check the weather every day. Conditions can change rapidly.
- Check road conditions before driving. This is especially important outside Reykjavík and later in September.
- Keep your itinerary flexible. Bad weather may require you to change your plans.
- Don’t rely on seeing the Northern Lights on one particular night. Give yourself several opportunities.
- Check F-road access individually. Never assume a Highland road is open because you’re traveling in early September.
- Plan around daylight. Days become noticeably shorter throughout the month.
FAQ: Visiting Iceland in September
- Is September a good month to visit Iceland?
Yes. September is a good time to visit Iceland for road trips, sightseeing, autumn landscapes and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights. Temperatures are cooler than summer but generally milder than winter.
- Is Iceland cold in September?
Iceland is cool in September. Average daytime temperatures are generally around 9–12°C (48–54°F), with colder temperatures possible at night, in northern Iceland and at higher elevations.
- Does it snow in Iceland in September?
Yes, snow is possible in September, especially later in the month and in northern, mountainous or Highland areas. Significant snow is less common in Reykjavík during September, but Icelandic weather is unpredictable.
- Can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland in September?
Yes. Dark nights return in September, making it possible to see the Northern Lights when aurora activity, cloud cover and weather conditions are suitable.
- Is September rainy in Iceland?
Rain is common throughout the year in Iceland, and September can bring wet and windy weather. Waterproof outer layers are recommended.
- How many hours of daylight are there in Iceland in September?
Iceland has roughly 11–14 hours of daylight during September, with significantly more daylight at the beginning of the month than at the end.
- Do I need a 4×4 in Iceland in September?
Not necessarily. A 2WD car can be suitable for many trips on paved roads, including Reykjavík, the Golden Circle and South Coast when conditions are good. A 4×4 may be preferable for more remote routes or changing autumn conditions and is mandatory on F-roads.
- Are F-roads open in Iceland in September?
Some F-roads may still be open during part of September, but they close when weather and road conditions make travel unsafe. Always check the current status of the specific road before traveling.
- Can you drive the Ring Road in September?
Yes, the Ring Road is normally accessible in September, weather permitting. Conditions can become colder and more unpredictable later in the month, so check road and weather information daily.
- What should I wear in Iceland in September?
Wear layers and bring waterproof clothing. A thermal base layer, fleece, waterproof jacket and trousers, waterproof hiking boots, warm socks, gloves and a hat will cover most outdoor situations.
- Can you see puffins in Iceland in September?
Possibly, particularly at the very beginning of September, but most puffins leave Iceland around the end of summer. September is not the best month to visit if seeing puffins is a priority.
- Is September a good time for an Iceland road trip?
Yes. September can be an excellent month for an Iceland road trip because most major routes and attractions remain accessible while darker evenings provide a chance to see the Northern Lights. Travelers should still be prepared for rapidly changing weather.
- Is it cheaper to visit Iceland in September?
Prices depend on your dates and availability, but September falls outside the busiest part of the summer travel season. Comparing accommodation and rental car prices early can help you find better-value options.
Conclusion: Is Iceland Worth Visiting in September?
It is a transition month that combines many advantages of summer and autumn: enough daylight for road trips, cooler temperatures for exploring, changing autumn landscapes and dark nights that can bring the Northern Lights.
You can drive the Golden Circle, explore the South Coast, take on the Ring Road, visit geothermal pools and potentially see the aurora during the same trip.
The main thing to remember is that September weather in Iceland can change quickly. Keep your itinerary flexible, pack waterproof layers and check weather and road conditions every day.
And if you’re planning to explore Iceland by car, book your cheap Iceland car rental directly with Firefly Iceland. Choose the vehicle that suits your route, travel dates and budget, and get ready to explore Iceland at your own pace.🚗
