Even though the summer is over September is definitely not a bad month to visit Iceland, the weather is usually calm and dry (average precipitation is 67mm) and the average temperature is 7,4°C (45,3°F) but it can go as high as 10-15°C (50-59°F).

Of course the weather can be unpredictable like every other month in Iceland, so be prepared for rain and cold weather, especially in the afternoon/night. There is daylight during the day but it gets dark in the afternoon, the average sunshine is 125 hours.

The best thing about September is probably the autumn colours of the vegetation and the Northern Lights start to appear again.

September is also not as busy as the summer months so less crowded places.

Driving in Iceland in September

September is usually a good month to rent a car in Iceland, even though the summer is over the roads are usually open and conditions not bad. But it is almost impossible to predict the weather in head of time so in September you need to be prepared for all kinds of weather, including heavy rain, snow, blizzards and wind.

If you are thinking about renting a car we recommend renting a 4WD car and only if you are confident driving in cold weather conditions. Remember that off-road driving is strictly forbidden and the fine for speeding can be very high.

In September most roads are accessible but some roads in the remote areas of the country might be closed as well as the mountain roads. The main roads are well maintained in September and the most popular tourist destinations around Reykjavík are accessible including the Golden Circle, the South Coast as well as Snæfellsnes peninsula in the West and the North part of Iceland. Usually it is still possible to drive the full circle around Iceland in September.

If you are not comfortable driving multiple bus tours and private tours are available during the winter in Iceland.

If you decide to drive in Iceland here you will find useful tips and more extensive information.

What to wear

It starts to get cold again in the Fall and the average temperature in September - November is around 3°C (37°C). September is usually warmer though and the weather is not to bad.

We recommend to bring warm clothes and be prepared for everything, the weather is very unpredictable and it can rain, be sunny and windy. Layers are the key again in September as you want to be able to strip of clothes when it is warm and put them back on when it gets colder.

  • Hiking boots - If you are planning on only staying in Reykjavík then sneakers might be enough but if you will be travelling around the country and staying outside you need good hiking shoes that will keep you warm.
  • Base layer - warm layers under the clothes might be the best thing you bring to Iceland. We recommend wearing long wool or thermal underwear, you can buy it in outdoor clothing stores in Iceland.
  • Fleece or wool - The Icelandic wool sweater or fleece is a must. The Icelandic wool sweater can be bought all over the country in local stores.
  • Parka or water and windproof jacket - Usually you don’t need parka in September ut if you have space in your suitcase why not bring it. A water and windproof jacket over the wool/fleece sweater is essential.
  • Water and windproof pants - It is windy in Iceland and it rains so bring the pants.
  • Hats, gloves and warm socks - Bring at least two sets of everything a lighter pair and a thick one as well.
  • Swimsuit - You are going to want to relax in our warm swimming pools or hot springs after a long day outside