A Travel Adventurer’s Guide to Iceland in November
Most people typically don’t look forward to blistering cold temperatures on a vacation. Despite the obvious climate challenges, a winter in Iceland is a magical experience you won’t soon forget. After falling in love with the land of Fire & Ice on our first trip, we decided to revisit to explore even more incredible sights. This guide will share everything you need to know about visiting Iceland in November and prove it’s one of the best times to go!
Why Visit Iceland in November?
November in Iceland is a blend of snowy landscapes, fewer crowds, and prime Northern Lights viewing. After crossing the mental barrier of freezing cold weather, You can begin to appreciate the benefits of this season. Prices are much more affordable, there’s less tourists, and many activities are only available during the colder months. Aside from round trip tickets costing around $350 USD, the blanket of snow on the dramatic landscapes provides an aura of serenity. Also we saved a few vacation days by overlapping our journey with the Thanksgiving Holidays (sorry mom). The world famous Iceland Airwaves festival also occurs in early November each year.
What to Expect from the Weather in Iceland in November
Icelandic weather is notoriously unpredictable, but in November, you can generally expect:
- Temperatures: Ranging from 28°F to 40°F (-2°C to 4°C). Not as cold as we expected, but the wind can make it brutal so layer up.
- Daylight Hours: Around 5 to 8 hours of daylight. The sun rises at 10am and starts setting around 4pm so try to maximize your daylight hours.
- Conditions: Snowfall, rain, wind, and occasional sunshine. Basically be prepared for anything since the weather changes quickly.
- Road Conditions: Some highland roads close, but the Ring Road and main tourist routes remain open. Be sure to rent a 4×4 vehicle if you plan on driving yourself. Check road.is for driving condition updates.
Best Things to Do in Iceland in November
Iceland is a destination of unparalleled natural beauty. While some activities are preferable during the warmer months or the light of the midnight sun, November offers a chance to enjoy many unique activities. While renting a car may save tons of money on transportation, it may not be ideal due to temperamental driving conditions. This is a good list of things to do while stationed in Reykjavik. For more ideas on things to do around the country, check out our epic Icelandic road trip.
1. Hunt for the Northern Lights
November is one of the best months for spotting the radiant glow of the Aurora Borealis. With long nights and dark skies, your chances of witnessing this natural wonder are high, however not guaranteed due to cloud coverage. Consider driving out of the city for less light pollution and greater chances to find them. Or you can book a Northern Lights tour where experts increase your odds of encountering this ethereal phenomenon. For more tips on optimizing viewing opportunities, check out our Northern Lights travel vlog.
2. Soak in Iceland’s Geothermal Hot Springs
The hot spring scene transforms the frigid Icelandic air into a relaxing experience. There’s an abundant amount of options to satisfy everyone’s unique preference. Here’s a few of our favorites:
- Blue Lagoon – Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa and possibly one of the most enchanting hot springs in the world. The cloudy blue waters are an unmatched phenomenon. It’s a bit expensive but totally worth it. Blue Lagoon is close to the airport so best for departure or arrival days.
- Sky Lagoon – One of Iceland’s newest luxury spas, Sky Lagoon is much closer to Reykjavik and includes the interesting 7 step ritual.
- Sundhöllin – The extremely affordable no-frills local swimming spot right in downtown Reykjavik.
- Laugardalslaug – Another of Reykjavik’s local thermal swimming pool complexes that also contains the largest pool in the country.
- Fontana – This simple geothermal bath includes saunas and the luxury of being located within the Golden Circle.
- Secret Lagoon – While a little further away from the city, this is an excellent option if you are on the way to Vik on Iceland’s Southern coast and needing a laid-back atmosphere.
3. Explore the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Less than 2 hours Northwest of the city you’ll find one of the most iconic landscapes in the country. Snaefellsnes Peninsula is Often reffered to as “Mini-Iceland,” and offers stunning natural scenery, from glaciers to black sand beaches and tons of mountains. Highlights include Kirkjufell Mountain (the most photographed mountain in Iceland), seaside cliffs, and frozen waterfalls. Sign up for this epic day tour for round trip transportation and hidden insights into each location!
4. Wander the Caverns of a Massive Lava Tube
Head underground on an exciting subterranean adventure through the Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel. Only about an hour outside of the Reykjavik, this massive cavern system is Iceland’s longest lava cave. November transforms the primarily rocky interior into a frosted spectacle adorned with stunning ice formations. Sign up for this guided tour to gain access to this geological wonder plus round-trip transportation, safety equipment, and historical insights.
5. Fly Over an Active Volcano
They don’t call it the Land of Fire & Ice for nothing. Iceland has more geothermically active volcanoes than almost anywhere on Earth. However, planning your trip during an active volcanic eruption might be a bit more luck oriented than seeing the Northern Lights. But if fate is on your side, consider taking an unforgettable helicopter ride to get amazing aerial views of the eruption. Here are some of the views from the most recent volcanic eruption near Grindavik on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
6. Experience a Glacial Ice Cave
For a thrilling winter expedition, hike into the heart of a gigantic glacier to witness the ethereal ice caves. The Katla Glacier Ice Cave is accessible year-round but November provides a spectacular mix of ice and volcanic ash formations. For those venturing out to the eastern shores, the crystal blue ice cave in Vatnajökull is one of the best experiences we had in Iceland. It is typically only accessible during the colder months.
7. Discover the Hidden Gems of Iceland’s Capital
No doubt any trip to Iceland will include at least a few days in Reykjavik. This Northernmost capital city is filled with tons of unique landmarks from interesting sculptures to eccentric museums. November is a great time to escape Reykjavik’s bitter cold with some indoor activities. Here’s a few of our top picks to see around the city:
- Fly Over Iceland – This is an immersive attraction that shows you all of Iceland’s diverse landscapes from the comfort of mechanical ride.
- The Lava Show – Originally only available in Vik, this thrilling encounter grants you a literal front row show to a molten lava flow. You can reserve your spot in advance here.
- Saga Museum – Learn about Iceland’s Viking history through disturbingly lifelike exhibits.
- National Museum of Iceland – Explore Iceland’s rich cultural heritage in a world class museum.
- Whales of Iceland – A fascinating exhibit featuring life-sized whale replicas.
- Old Harbor – A charming area with seafood restaurants, shops, and Northern Lights boat tours.
- Perlan: A science and nature museum with a stunning observation deck and its very own ice cave.
- Sun Voyager: A striking Viking ship sculpture by the sea.
- Harpa Concert Hall: An architectural gem and cultural venue.
- Hallgrímskirkja: Iceland’s tallest rocket-shaped church with panoramic views of Reykjavik.
- Rainbow Road: A vibrant street in downtown Reykjavik, perfect for photos and street food.
- Þúfa – A whimsical hilltop.
*For more of the top 10 best things to do in Reykjavik, check out our blog post.
Tips for Staying in Reykjavik
While Iceland is generally expensive, November will have slightly cheaper flights, accommodation, and car rental prices. We stayed at the Center Hotel Arnarhvoll which was in a great area and had its own mini hot spring for $150 USD per night. While renting a car will save you tons of money, we opted for tours due to uncertain driving conditions. Iceland’s food scene is lowkey underrated and still one of our favorites. Here’s a few restaurants with incredible recommendations:
- Messin – Incredible seafood and Arctic Char
- Baejarins Betzu Pylsur – For the world’s best hot dog
- 101 Reykjavik Street food – Amazing Lobster soup and traditional meals
- Old Iceland Restaurant – Delicious fish and the best mushroom soup I ever had
- Reykjavik Kitchen – Savory Lamb Shanks and soup
- Fiskfélagid – Fish Company – Exceptional course dinners and sushi
- Þrír Frakkar – Great for experiencing Iceland’s most traditional and obscure dishes
- Monkeys – A fusion of classic and modern cuisine, literally everything was exquisite
- Pylsuhusid Hot Dog House – Possibly even tastier hot dogs than Baejarins
Essential Items to Pack for Iceland in November
- Water bottle (Icelandic water is divine)
- Flashlight
- Hiking boots
- Thermal underwear
- Waterproof jacket/pants
- Gloves
- Wool Socks
- Swimsuit
- Power adapter (type C or F, 50Hz, 220 volts)
- Ice scraper for car windshield (If renting a car)
So have we convinced you to brave the cold and plan your trip to Iceland in November? While the Northern lights is more than enough reason for the journey, there are a plethora of exciting excursions to enjoy during this season as well. Despite the colder temperatures, shorter days, and occasional road closures, it remains one of our favorite times to visit. So totally worth the trip! Hopefully next time we can experience that midnight sun or finally drive that damned Ring Road. Thanks for reading and keep leveling up!
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