I can’t help but laugh whenever someone asks me, “when is the best time to elope in Iceland”. Anytime is a GREAT time to elope in Iceland. The question should be, what do YOU WANT from your elopement. Northern Lights? Then that would be late autumn or winter, or are a mid night sun child, then the height of summer is for you. Every single season has SO MUCH potential for amazing photography.
I have listed below a few potential locations for all the seasons of the year and but it’s NOT LIMITED to just these. I have always imagined a couple getting married up on the Apple Crater, yet it’s not listed below (only in my imagination) or has ever been requested. Whatever you want, I will do my best to make sure it’s exactly how you imagined it and more.
For personalized recommendations and to plan your perfect winter elopement, feel free to reach out. With nine years of experience in the wedding and elopement industry, I am here to make your Icelandic adventure unforgettable.
Fall in Iceland is a photographer’s dream, with its rich, vivid colours and stunning, other-worldly landscapes. As the summer crowds thin out, you can enjoy a more private and intimate experience, perfect for capturing amazing photos of your memorable day. While the weather is cooler than in summer, it’s not as harsh as winter, though it can be damp. Make sure to pack layers and a raincoat to stay comfortable. Be prepared for the possibility of stormy conditions on your elopement day, and embrace the adventure by staying flexible.
September, in particular, stands out as the ideal month to say your vows amidst the vibrant fall colors and serene landscapes.
Autumn in Iceland, from September to November, offers a unique blend of vibrant fall colours, fewer tourists, and the magical possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights. Here are some of the best locations to consider for your elopement during this enchanting season:
Why Autumn? The lush greenery around Skógafoss starts to turn into beautiful autumn hues, providing a stunning contrast with the waterfall.
Highlights: The dramatic 60-meter waterfall, nearby hiking trails, and the chance to capture beautiful photos with rainbows often appearing at the base of the falls.
2. Þingvellir National Park
Why Autumn? The park is adorned with golden autumn foliage, creating a picturesque and serene atmosphere.
Highlights: Rich history as the site of the ancient Icelandic parliament, Althingi, as well as stunning landscapes including the Silfra fissure and the Oxararfoss waterfall.
3. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Why Autumn? Cooler temperatures make it more comfortable to explore this unique beach, and the moody autumn skies enhance the dramatic landscape.
Highlights: Striking basalt columns, the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and the powerful waves of the Atlantic Ocean.
Read more about Reynisfjara Black Beach.
4. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Why Autumn? The lagoon is quieter in autumn, allowing for a more intimate experience among the floating icebergs.
Highlights: Stunning icebergs, the possibility of spotting seals, and the nearby Diamond Beach, where ice chunks wash up on the black sand.
Read more about Jökulsárlón.
5. Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfalls
Why Autumn? The surrounding lava fields and birch woods turn into a vibrant mix of autumn colors, creating a mesmerizing setting.
Highlights: The unique lava waterfalls of Hraunfossar and the tumultuous rapids of Barnafoss offer diverse photo opportunities.
6. Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Why Autumn? Often referred to as “Iceland in Miniature,” this region showcases a variety of landscapes with autumn colors adding to its charm.
Highlights: The iconic Kirkjufell Mountain, dramatic cliffs of Arnarstapi, and the mystical Snaefellsjökull Glacier.
7. Vatnajökull National Park
Why Autumn? The park’s diverse landscapes are less crowded, allowing for a peaceful and immersive experience.
Highlights: Europe’s largest glacier, stunning ice caves, and breathtaking views from the Skaftafell area.
8. Kerlingarfjöll
Why Autumn? The geothermal area becomes particularly striking in autumn, with steam rising amidst the vibrant fall foliage.
Highlights: Geothermal hot springs, colourful rhyolite mountains, and less tourist traffic.
Read more about Kerlingarfjöll.
9. Goðafoss
Why Autumn? Known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” Goðafoss is surrounded by beautiful autumn scenery.
Highlights: The horseshoe-shaped waterfall, easy access from the Ring Road, and the rich historical significance.
Read more about Goðafoss Waterfall
10. Seljalandsfoss
Why Autumn? The ability to walk behind the waterfall offers a unique perspective, enhanced by the beautiful autumn landscape.
Highlights: Walking paths that take you behind the waterfall, nearby Gljúfrabúi hidden waterfall, and excellent photo opportunities.
Read more about Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
For personalized recommendations and to plan your perfect elopement, feel free to reach out. With nine years of experience in the wedding and elopement industry, I am here to make your Icelandic adventure unforgettable.
Winter is the perfect time to capture the stunning Northern Lights or aurora borealis painting the sky. Iceland offers a vivid array of colors and shades in its Northern Lights displays, making it one of the best places to witness this natural wonder. Be sure to experience this breathtaking phenomenon during your visit to Iceland.
As we say, Iceland enchants in all seasons, but winter presents unique challenges. With increased snowfall and icy roads, it’s essential to check road conditions before embarking on your adventures to discover Iceland’s natural beauty.
Here are some of the best locations to consider for your winter wedding:
1. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Why Winter? The lagoon and surrounding area are even more mesmerizing in winter, with icebergs glistening in the low light and snow-covered landscapes.
Highlights: Icebergs floating in the lagoon, the nearby Diamond Beach, and the possibility of seeing seals and other wildlife.
Read more about Jökulsárlón.
2. Vatnajökull National Park
Why Winter? The park offers incredible winter scenery, including ice caves that are accessible only during this season.
Highlights: The awe-inspiring Vatnajökull Glacier, crystal-blue ice caves, and stunning snowy vistas.
3. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Why Winter? The contrast between the black sand and the white snow creates a dramatic and unique setting.
Highlights: Basalt columns, the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and powerful waves crashing against the shore.
Read more about Reynisfjara Black Beach.
4. Gullfoss
Why Winter? This iconic waterfall is partially frozen in winter, creating an ethereal and breathtaking scene.
Highlights: The double cascade of the waterfall, the surrounding snowy landscape, and the nearby geothermal area of Geysir.
5. Thingvellir National Park
Why Winter? The park’s historical significance and winter beauty make it a special place to exchange vows.
Highlights: The Almannagjá rift, frozen waterfalls, and the serene winter landscape.
6. Kirkjufell Mountain
Why Winter? Often photographed in winter, Kirkjufell and the nearby waterfall are stunning under a blanket of snow.
Highlights: The distinctive shape of Kirkjufell, the surrounding snow-covered scenery, and the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall.
Read more about Kirkjufell Mountain.
7. Seljalandsfoss
Why Winter? The ability to walk behind the waterfall while it’s partially frozen offers a unique and magical experience.
Highlights: Walking paths behind the waterfall, the nearby Gljúfrabúi hidden waterfall, and excellent winter photo opportunities.
Read more about Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
8. Goðafoss
Why Winter? Known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” Goðafoss is surrounded by beautiful winter scenery.
Highlights: The horseshoe-shaped waterfall, easy access from the Ring Road, and the rich historical significance.
Read more about Goðafoss Waterfall
9. Stokksnes
Why Winter? The dramatic landscapes and stunning views of Vestrahorn mountain are particularly captivating in winter.
Highlights: Black sand beaches, the rugged beauty of Vestrahorn, and the serene, snow-covered scenery.
Read more about Stokksnes.
10. Hofskirkja
Why Winter? This picturesque turf church looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale when covered in snow.
Highlights: The charming turf-roof church, scenic surroundings, and the unique architectural style.
Winter in Iceland offers a magical and serene setting for your elopement, with stunning landscapes, fewer tourists, and the high possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights. Each of these locations provides a unique and breathtaking backdrop for your special day, ensuring your elopement is as memorable as it is beautiful.
Another season I absolutely adore is spring in Iceland. Picture yourselves exchanging vows amidst blooming lupines, with majestic mountains bathed in the golden light of the setting sun as your backdrop – it’s truly a scene to remember!
Spring also offers a more budget-friendly option for travel, as early spring is not peak season in Iceland, leading to lower prices compared to summer.
However, be prepared for the unpredictable weather that comes with this transitional season!
Here are some of the best locations to consider for your spring wedding:
1. Seljalandsfoss
Why Spring? The waterfall is particularly stunning in spring when the surrounding area comes to life with fresh greenery and wildflowers.
Highlights: The unique opportunity to walk behind the waterfall, nearby Gljúfrabúi hidden waterfall, and breathtaking photo opportunities.
Read more about Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
2. Skógafoss
Why Spring? Skógafoss is surrounded by blooming flora and lush landscapes, making it a picturesque backdrop for your elopement.
Highlights: The dramatic 60-meter waterfall, rainbows often appearing at the base of the falls, and nearby hiking trails with additional waterfalls.
3. Þingvellir National Park
Why Spring? The park’s landscapes are revitalized with spring growth, and the historical significance adds a unique touch to your ceremony.
Highlights: The Almannagjá rift, Oxararfoss waterfall, and the rich history as the site of Iceland’s ancient parliament.
4. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Why Spring? The beach’s dramatic black sand contrasts beautifully with the vibrant spring flora.
Highlights: Striking basalt columns, Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and the powerful waves of the Atlantic Ocean.
Read more about Reynisfjara Black Beach.
5. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Why Spring? The lagoon is a serene and stunning location with floating icebergs and the surrounding landscape beginning to thaw and bloom.
Highlights: Icebergs in the lagoon, nearby Diamond Beach, and the chance to see seals and other wildlife.
Read more about Jökulsárlón.
6. Goðafoss
Why Spring? Known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” Goðafoss is surrounded by fresh spring greenery and blooming flowers.
Highlights: The horseshoe-shaped waterfall, easy access from the Ring Road, and the rich historical significance.
Read more about Goðafoss Waterfall
7. Kirkjufell Mountain
Why Spring? The iconic mountain and its surroundings are lush and green, offering a stunning setting for your elopement.
Highlights: The distinctive shape of Kirkjufell, the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, and excellent photo opportunities.
Read more about Kirkjufell Mountain.
8. Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Why Spring? Often called “Iceland in Miniature,” this region showcases a variety of landscapes that come to life in spring.
Highlights: Snaefellsjökull Glacier, dramatic cliffs of Arnarstapi, and the scenic beauty of the coastline.
9. Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfalls
Why Spring? The waterfalls and surrounding lava fields are enhanced by the vibrant spring growth and blooming flora.
Highlights: Unique lava waterfalls of Hraunfossar, the tumultuous rapids of Barnafoss, and diverse photo opportunities.
10. Stokksnes
Why Spring? The dramatic landscapes and stunning views of Vestrahorn mountain are particularly captivating in spring with new growth and longer daylight hours.
Highlights: Black sand beaches, the rugged beauty of Vestrahorn, and the serene, blooming scenery.
Read more about Stokksnes.
Spring in Iceland is a season of renewal and beauty, offering stunning landscapes, blooming flora, and extended daylight for your elopement. Each of these locations provides a unique and breathtaking backdrop for your special day, ensuring your elopement is as memorable as it is beautiful.
Summer in Iceland, from June to August, is a time of endless daylight, blooming landscapes, and mild temperatures. The Midnight Sun offers extended hours to enjoy and capture the beauty of your elopement.
Summer is the most popular season in Iceland, with warm weather averaging around 13 degrees Celsius and nearly 24 hours of daylight due to the Midnight Sun. This extended daylight provides ample time to explore and enjoy the stunning Icelandic landscapes.
However, summer is also the busiest tourist season in Iceland. To ensure a more intimate elopement, consider planning your ceremony at midnight or during the night when fewer tourists are around. Additionally, opting for more isolated locations can help you avoid crowds and enjoy a more private experience.
Here are some of the best locations to consider for your summer wedding:
1. Landmannalaugar
Why Summer? Known for its colorful rhyolite mountains and geothermal hot springs, Landmannalaugar is only accessible in the summer months due to road conditions.
Highlights: Vibrant, multi-coloured mountains, scenic hiking trails, and the relaxing natural hot springs.
Read more about Landmannalaugar.
2. Kerlingarfjöll
Why Summer? This highland area is famous for its geothermal activity and dramatic landscapes, accessible primarily during the summer.
Highlights: Steaming hot springs, geothermal fields, and panoramic views of rugged mountains.
Read more about Kerlingarfjöll.
3. Múlagljúfur Canyon
Why Summer? The canyon is lush and green in the summer, with stunning waterfalls and dramatic cliffs.
Highlights: Hidden waterfalls, moss-covered cliffs, and the serene beauty of the canyon.
Read more about Múlagljúfur Canyon.
4. Skógafoss
Why Summer? Skógafoss is particularly beautiful in the summer when the surrounding area is lush and green, making it a perfect backdrop for your elopement.
Highlights: The dramatic 60-meter waterfall, rainbows often appearing at the base of the falls, and nearby hiking trails with additional waterfalls.
5. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Why Summer? The lagoon is accessible year-round, but summer offers extended daylight to explore and capture its beauty.
Highlights: Icebergs in the lagoon, nearby Diamond Beach, and the chance to see seals and other wildlife.
Read more about Jökulsárlón.
6. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Why Summer? The beach’s dramatic black sand contrasts beautifully with the summer flora.
Highlights: Striking basalt columns, Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and the powerful waves of the Atlantic Ocean.
Read more about Reynisfjara Black Beach.
7. Háifoss
Why Summer? The second-highest waterfall in Iceland, Háifoss is surrounded by lush green landscapes and offers a breathtaking setting for your elopement.
Highlights: The 122-meter drop of the waterfall, dramatic cliffs, and the nearby Granni waterfall.
Read more about Haifoss Waterfall.
8. Goðafoss
Why Summer? Known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” Goðafoss is surrounded by fresh greenery and blooming flowers in the summer.
Highlights: The horseshoe-shaped waterfall, easy access from the Ring Road, and the rich historical significance.
Read more about Goðafoss Waterfall
9. Kirkjufell Mountain
Why Summer? The iconic mountain and its surroundings are lush and green, offering a stunning setting for your elopement.
Highlights: The distinctive shape of Kirkjufell, the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, and excellent photo opportunities.
Read more about Kirkjufell Mountain.
10. Stokksnes
Why Summer? The dramatic landscapes and stunning views of Vestrahorn mountain are particularly captivating in summer with new growth and longer daylight hours.
Highlights: Black sand beaches, the rugged beauty of Vestrahorn, and the serene, blooming scenery.
Read more about Stokksnes.
Summer in Iceland offers endless daylight, blooming landscapes, and mild temperatures, making it a perfect time for your elopement. Each of these locations provides a unique and breathtaking backdrop for your special day, ensuring your elopement is as memorable as it is beautiful.
