September is one of the best months to visit Iceland: the summer crowds thin out, prices often drop, the first northern lights begin to appear, and the landscape glows in rich autumn colors. If you’re planning a trip at this time of year, a little preparation will help you make the most of your adventure—especially if you’re exploring the wild and beautiful west of Iceland.
Here are some practical tips for visiting Iceland in September, along with ideas for where to stay, including Ourhotels.is properties such as Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords.
September weather in Iceland: what to expect
In September, Iceland transitions from summer to autumn. You can expect:
– Temperatures usually between 5–12°C (41–54°F)
– More frequent rain and wind, but still plenty of clear days
– Shortening daylight hours (around 13–14 hours at the start of the month, dropping to about 11 by the end)
Weather can change quickly, especially in the west and in the Westfjords, so always check the forecast (vedur.is) and road conditions (road.is) before heading out.
What to pack for Iceland in September
Layers are essential. Aim for:
– Base layer: thermal or moisture-wicking top and leggings
– Mid layer: fleece or light wool sweater
– Outer layer: waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
– Footwear: waterproof hiking boots with good grip
– Accessories: hat, gloves, scarf or buff, warm socks
– Extras: swimsuit (for hot springs), quick-dry towel, reusable water bottle, and a small daypack
Even if you’re staying in comfortable inns like Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn, you’ll want to be ready for all conditions once you step outside.
Driving in Iceland in September
September is still a good month for self-drive trips, especially in the west:
– Most main roads are open and generally in good condition.
– Some highland F-roads may start to close as the month progresses.
– Expect more rain and occasional fog; drive slowly and keep headlights on.
– Watch for sheep on the roads, particularly in rural areas like Borgarfjörður and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
If you’re exploring the west, a natural route is to base yourself at different Ourhotels.is locations: start near Borgarnes at Hvítá Inn, continue to Stykkishólmur Inn on Snæfellsnes, and then head north to Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords.
Chasing the northern lights in September
September is the start of northern lights season in Iceland. While nothing is guaranteed, your chances improve if you:
– Look for clear, dark skies away from city lights.
– Check the aurora forecast on vedur.is.
– Stay up late—activity often peaks between 22:00 and 02:00.
Staying in smaller towns in the west gives you a big advantage. From Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, you’re surrounded by open countryside with minimal light pollution. Stykkishólmur Inn offers easy access to dark coastal viewpoints, and Ísafjörður Inn places you in the dramatic fjord landscape of the Westfjords, where clear nights can be spectacular.
Why base yourself in West Iceland in September
West Iceland is ideal in September: it’s accessible from Reykjavík, less crowded than the south coast, and packed with varied scenery—glaciers, lava fields, waterfalls, hot springs, and charming fishing towns.
Ourhotels.is offers comfortable, well-located inns that make it easy to explore:
Hvítá Inn – Borgarfjörður (near Borgarnes)
Borgarfjörður is often called “the saga valley” thanks to its deep roots in Icelandic history and literature. Hvítá Inn is a great base for:
– Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, framed by early autumn colors
– Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring
– The historic Reykholt area
– Day trips into the highlands (conditions permitting)
In September, the surrounding countryside turns golden and red, making drives and short hikes especially scenic. After a day out, returning to a cozy inn in the quiet countryside is a real bonus.
Stykkishólmur Inn – Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Stykkishólmur is one of Iceland’s prettiest coastal towns, and Stykkishólmur Inn puts you right at the gateway to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula—often described as “Iceland in miniature” because it has a bit of everything:
– Snæfellsjökull glacier and national park
– Black sand beaches and dramatic cliffs
– Charming fishing villages and colorful harbors
– Coastal walks with views over Breiðafjörður bay
In September, the peninsula is calmer than in peak summer, but most services and tours are still running. It’s an excellent time for photography, with softer light and fewer people at the main viewpoints.
Ísafjörður Inn – Westfjords
If you want to experience Iceland at its most remote and dramatic, head to the Westfjords. Ísafjörður is the region’s main town, and Ísafjörður Inn makes a comfortable base for:
– Exploring deep fjords and steep mountainsides
– Visiting nearby villages like Suðureyri and Flateyri
– Hiking coastal and mountain trails (weather permitting)
– Enjoying local seafood and the town’s small but lively cultural scene
By September, some highland tracks and very remote areas may be less accessible, but the main routes are usually open, and the autumn colors in the fjords can be stunning. It’s also a quieter, more local experience than the more touristed south.
Enjoying hot springs and pools
No trip to Iceland is complete without soaking in hot water, and September’s cooler air makes it even more enjoyable. Around West Iceland you’ll find:
– Geothermal swimming pools in most towns (including Borgarnes, Stykkishólmur, and Ísafjörður)
– Natural hot springs and hot pots (always check local guidance and respect closures)
Ask at your Ourhotels.is reception for current recommendations—they’ll know which spots are best at that time of year and how to get there safely.
Respecting nature and staying safe
Iceland’s landscapes are fragile, and September can bring more rain and wind, so:
– Stay on marked paths to protect moss and vegetation.
– Keep a safe distance from cliffs, waves, and geothermal areas.
– Check weather and road conditions daily.
– Let someone know your travel plans if you’re hiking or driving remote routes.
Staff at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn can help you interpret forecasts and suggest suitable activities for the day’s conditions.
Booking accommodation in September
September is shoulder season, but popular areas can still fill up—especially on weekends and around events. It’s wise to:
– Book your route and inns in advance, particularly in the Westfjords.
– Consider staying multiple nights in each place to reduce driving and enjoy a slower pace.
Using Ourhotels.is to plan a west Iceland itinerary makes it easy to link together Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn into a logical route, with comfortable stays and local advice at each stop.
Making the most of your September trip
To sum up, visiting Iceland in September offers:
– Milder weather than winter, but fewer crowds than summer
– The chance to see northern lights and autumn colors
– Good driving conditions in the west, with plenty of daylight
– A more relaxed, local feel in towns and villages
By basing yourself in well-located inns like Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords, you can explore some of Iceland’s most beautiful regions at an ideal time of year.
Plan ahead, pack for all kinds of weather, and use Ourhotels.is to connect your stays across West Iceland—then simply enjoy the landscapes, the hot springs, and the peaceful atmosphere that makes September in Iceland so special.
