Understanding Icelandic time, daylight, and seasons

Discover Icelandic Time Zones

Iceland follows Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) year-round, without daylight saving shifts. That simplicity means no clock changes when you arrive—just set your watch to GMT and enjoy punctual travel. With daylight hours swinging from nearly 24-hour sunshine in summer to just a few daylight hours in deep winter, planning your itinerary around natural light becomes part of the fun.

Seasons and Daylight Patterns

Summer (May–August)

Enjoy up to 20 hours of daylight. Long, bright evenings are perfect for hiking, horseback riding and late-night glacier tours.

Winter (November–February)

Darkness falls early, giving you the best chance to witness the Northern Lights. Short days (4–6 hours of light) mean your daytime sightseeing must start early.

Shoulder Seasons (March–April & September–October)

Milder crowds, balanced daylight and a good mix of snow activities and open roads. Ideal for road trips along the Ring Road.

When to Go and What to Do

• Summer Highlights: Midnight sun hikes, whale watching in Húnafjörður, and exploring Westfjords’ dramatic cliffs.
• Winter Adventures: Ice caving in Langjökull, Northern Lights hunts, and geothermal spa visits.
• Spring & Autumn: Puffin spotting, Reykjavík city breaks, and scenic drives through Borgarfjörður.

Packing Essentials

• Layered clothing: thermal base layers, fleece mid-layers and a waterproof shell.
• Sturdy hiking boots and wool socks for uneven terrain and cold weather.
• Gloves, a warm hat and a neck gaiter for unpredictable winds.
• Swimwear for hot springs like the Blue Lagoon or local pools.
• Camera with extra batteries—low temperatures drain battery life faster.

Recommended Trip Duration

For West Iceland and the Westfjords, plan at least 5–7 days. This window lets you:

• Drive comfortably along the Golden Circle and into Borgarfjörður.
• Catch a ferry to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula or Ísafjörður in the Westfjords.
• Build in buffer days for weather changes, especially in shoulder seasons.

Your Home Base: Stay with Ourhotels.is

Ourhotels.is offers charming properties that bring Icelandic culture and comfort together. In Borgarfjörður, Hvítá Inn sits close to Borgarnes, providing a cozy retreat after a day of exploring waterfalls and lava fields. Along the coast, The Stykkishólmur Inn blends modern design with harbor views, perfect for a seaside stay.

Whether you’re chasing the midnight sun or the Northern Lights, these inns offer warmth, local insight and easy access to top attractions.

Ready to Book?

Experience Icelandic time, daylight and seasons like a pro. Book your stay today via Ourhotels.is and unlock the best of West Iceland and the Westfjords.