Table of Contents
- Is February a Good Time to Visit Iceland?
- Is February a Good Month to See the Northern Lights?
- Weather in Iceland in February
- Driving in Iceland in February
- What to Do in Iceland in February
- Where to Go in Iceland in February
- Tips for Driving in Iceland in February
- Is It Worth Visiting Iceland in February?
Planning a road trip to Iceland in February? Winter is one of the most magical — and misunderstood — times to visit. With snow-covered landscapes, fewer crowds and excellent chances of seeing the northern lights, February offers a unique kind of adventure. That said, driving in Iceland in winter does require a bit of extra preparation.
In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about visiting and driving in Iceland in February, including weather conditions, road safety, what to see and do, and how to plan a safe and enjoyable self-drive trip.
Is February a Good Time to Visit Iceland?
February is a fantastic time to visit Iceland — if it matches the experience you’re looking for.
If you prefer warm temperatures, calm weather and effortless travel, winter in Iceland may feel challenging. But if dramatic landscapes, snowy adventures, glowing northern lights and quieter attractions sound appealing, February could be your ideal month.
Why visiting Iceland in February makes sense:
- Lower demand means better prices on flights, accommodation and rental cars
- Fewer crowds at major attractions and outdoor sites
- Excellent northern lights conditions, with increasing daylight compared to January.
Is February a Good Month to See the Northern Lights?
Yes — February is one of the best months to see the northern lights in Iceland. Nights are still long and dark, offering plenty of opportunities to spot auroras when conditions are right.
The northern lights season runs from September to April, with peak chances right in the middle of that period. February sits squarely in that sweet spot.
Weather in Iceland in February
The biggest factor affecting travel — and driving — in Iceland in February is the weather. Winter conditions are famously unpredictable, and plans sometimes need to adapt.
You may experience snow, sleet, rain, sunshine and strong winds all in the same day. Some storms pass quickly, while others can last for several days, occasionally leading to road closures.
How Cold Is Iceland in February?
The average February temperatures in Iceland are between -3 and +3°C (26-34° Fahrenheit). However, this temperature can feel colder thanks to the wind chill. Still, for many travellers, these temps aren’t nearly as cold as they expected to experience in Iceland in the winter! These warmer, milder temperatures are made possible due to Iceland’s geographic location along the Gulf Stream current, which brings warm waters up from the earth’s Southern Hemisphere.
Still, even though these temperatures might not be as frigid as what you were expecting to experience during your February trip to Iceland, do note that things are still quite cold and wet if you’re not used to these temps, so pack accordingly. Make sure you bring lots of layers, waterproof clothing, a warm jacket and other necessary items. Read up on all the things to pack for an Iceland trip before you start, so you don’t miss a thing.
How Many Hours of Daylight Are There in February?
Daylight increases quickly throughout February:
- 1 February: sunrise around 10:07, sunset around 17:16 (just over 7 hours)
- 28 February: sunrise around 08:38, sunset around 18:43 (over 10 hours)
If you want more daylight for sightseeing and driving, visit towards the end of the month. If northern lights are your priority, early February offers longer nights.
Will There Be Snow in Iceland in February?
It all depends on what part of Iceland you're visiting! If you're just visiting Reykjavik and the southern portion of the country, you might not see all that much snow, as the warmer temperatures in that region can melt the snow cover. However, largely, most of the rest of the country is covered in snow, especially in the northern regions, where the weather is usually colder, darker and icier.
Driving in Iceland in February
Don’t think the weather will be a deterrent during your February Iceland trip? Then keep reading to find out what you need to know about how to stay safe as you self-drive to Iceland in February.
Should I drive in Iceland in February?
Overall, no matter what time of year you’re visiting Iceland, driving is the way to go for more flexibility, freedom and access. Iceland doesn’t have robust public transit and tour guides will only really take you to some of the top spots, and on a strict schedule, so if you want to see a variety of sights around the country, at your leisure, a car is necessary.
Driving in February is generally safe for prepared and confident drivers. You should reconsider or choose guided tours if:
- You’re uncomfortable driving in winter conditions
- You have little experience with snow, ice or strong winds
- You feel anxious driving abroad
If any of these apply, travelling with another confident driver or visiting in summer may be a better option.
What Are Road Conditions in Iceland Like in February?
Main routes — including roads around Reykjavik, the Golden Circle and much of the Ring Road — are prioritised for snow clearance and are usually passable, even after storms.
Remote gravel roads, however, are often closed or poorly maintained in winter. Temporary closures due to snow, ice, flooding or high winds are common, especially in North and East Iceland.
Highland roads are completely closed in winter, and the Westfjords are generally not recommended for most travellers during February.
Do You Need a 4x4 in Iceland in February?
While a 4x4 car rental in Iceland isn’t required by law when visiting in February, it’s highly recommended.
A 4x4 offers:
- Better traction on snow and ice
- Higher clearance
- More stability in difficult conditions
A 2WD car may be sufficient if you’re staying in Reykjavik and only driving the Golden Circle or parts of South Iceland — but even then, careful planning is essential.
Is It Safe to Drive in Iceland in February?
Yes, it’s usually safe to drive in Iceland in February, and throughout the entire winter season. However, as is the case anywhere in the world, if bad weather arises, you’ll want to take the right precautions necessary to stay safe. That means that you reserve the best rental car for your Iceland trip, that you watch the weather and don't drive during a storm, that you follow all Iceland driving laws, etcetera.
What Car Rental Insurance Should I Get?
Car rental insurance will keep you (and your wallet!) safe during a trip to Iceland wherein you plan on renting a car, no matter the season.
Car rental providers like Lava Car Rental offer extensive insurance options that will keep you covered in case you do have an accident or collision while driving in Iceland in February.
It is highly recommended to get the maximum coverage when travelling in Iceland in February, as the risk of accidents and damage to the car can be higher because of adverse weather conditions.
Do Rental Cars Have Winter Tires?
Yes, they do! Icelandic law requires winter tires for all vehicles, including rental cars, from November until mid-April. Winter tyres give you added traction while driving on snowy, icy or wet roadways. For added safety, Lava Car further outfits its rental cars with studded tires, which provide even more traction in the snow and ice.
What to Do in Iceland in February
Feeling confident that you can drive around Iceland in February, no problem? Then start planning your perfect Iceland February itinerary. Here are a few, favourite must-try experiences for a wintertime visit.
Chase the Northern Lights
February is one of the best months of the year to see Iceland’s northern lights. The skies are still dark enough that the lights are vibrant and visible (when they appear), but the weather is a little more forgiving than it is during December and January, when temperatures and conditions can be pretty harsh.
To chase the northern lights in Iceland, rent a 4x4 vehicle and then check the aurora forecast to find out when the lights will be popping up near you.
Go Ice Caving
Dive deep into a glacier to see an all-natural ice cave! This is one of the only months of the year during which you can enter ice caves in Iceland, while the conditions are just right to make the experience safe (the ice caves melt and collapse over the summer, before reforming again the next winter). You can book a guided (guides are required) ice caving experience in Vatnajokull.
Try Glacier Hiking
If you don't want to see a glacier from the inside, or you aren't able to make one of the guided tour times, you can still see a glacier from the outside, with a glacier hiking tour. This is a popular activity on Iceland’s South Coast, where Solheimajokull and Skaftafell are favourited glacier hiking spots.
Relax in Hot Springs
Iceland is filled with all-natural hot springs and geothermal swimming pools. Pack your swimsuit and hit these healing waters to enjoy the one-of-a-kind wintertime experience that is swimming in the snow. Check our guide to find the Icelandic hot spring nearest you.
Go Snowmobiling
For something that’s a little more high-speed, jump aboard a snowmobile for a snowmobile tour. You get the excitement of zipping around on the snow, while still enjoying Iceland’s beautiful winter landscape.
Attend February Events
There are two Iceland events that you can catch if you visit in February.
The Winter Lights Festival takes place over four days, in Reykjavik, typically around the first weekend of the month. The festival recognises the lengthening daylight and the return of longer days. You’ll find a lot of different individual activities and events coinciding with the overarching festival, from a museum night to a swimming pool night to a northern lights run.
Bolludagur is another February Iceland special event. The holiday, also called “bun day,” takes place six weeks before Easter. The occasion is marked with chowing down on Icelandic foods such as meatballs, fish balls and cream-filled buns.
Where to Go in Iceland in February
But beyond what there is to do in Iceland in February, where should you go? Here are a few ideas.
Best Regions to Visit in Iceland in February
The top three best places to consider going while in Iceland in February are The Golden Circle, Snaefellsnes Peninsula and The South Coast.
The Golden Circle is easily one of the most famous driving routes in the entire country. It features top attractions including Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area and the Gullfoss waterfall. You can travel around the entire Golden Circle in just a day, including driving to the circle from Reykjavik and back. However, for a more leisurely time, consider staying longer.
Snaefellsnes Peninsula is also worth a few days of your itinerary. Do note that if you visit Snaefellsnes Peninsula during the winter, a 4x4 car is advised, as the area is a little more remote than the Golden Circle. This is a great spot to go for northern lights hunting.
The South Coast requires a multi-day road trip from Reykjavik, but it’s a nice one if you have just a few days and not enough time to road trip around the entire Ring Road. Spots to stop include Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Solheimajokull Glacier and the Reykjadalur Valley.
Can You Drive the Ring Road in February?
Yes, as mentioned, you can drive around the Ring Road in February. However, if you plan on doing this, you’ll want to plan to spend 10 days doing so, as the road's length typically requires at least a week in the summer; in the winter, the weather and lessened daylight extend that needed time to 10 days.
Tips for Driving in Iceland in February
Ready to book your Iceland winter road trip? Make sure to keep these quick tips in mind as you plan:
- Always leave extra time in your itinerary for winter weather-related delays.
- Choose the right, safest rental car and route, for greater peace of mind.
- Always watch the weather, both leading up to and during your trip.
- Follow the Icelandic driving rules.
- Pack plenty of gear and keep emergency supplies, as well as extra fuel, in your rental car.
Is It Worth Visiting Iceland in February?
Absolutely. February offers a quieter, more atmospheric side of Iceland — with winter scenery, better value and unforgettable experiences.
Need help planning your February road trip? The local team at Lava Car Rental is always happy to help you choose the right vehicle and travel with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Driving in Iceland in February
What are temperatures and weather conditions like in Iceland in February?
Temperatures in February typically range between -3°C and +3°C, though wind can make it feel colder. Weather conditions are highly changeable, and it’s common to experience snow, rain, wind and sunshine in a short space of time. Being flexible with plans and checking forecasts regularly is essential for winter travel.
How much daylight is there in Iceland in February?
Daylight increases quickly throughout February. At the beginning of the month, you can expect just over seven hours of daylight, with sunrise around 10:07 and sunset around 17:16. By the end of February, daylight extends to more than ten hours, with sunrise around 08:38 and sunset around 18:43.
This makes late February particularly appealing for sightseeing and driving, while early February offers longer nights for northern lights viewing.
For comparison, much of Western Europe (such as the UK, France or Germany) typically has around 9–10 hours of daylight in early February and 10–11 hours by the end of the month. This means Iceland has noticeably shorter days at the start of February, but by late February the difference becomes far less dramatic than many travellers expect.
Can I visit all of Iceland in February?
No, it’s not possible to visit all of Iceland in February. Some regions, such as the Highlands, are completely closed during winter, and others — like the Westfjords — are generally not recommended due to road conditions and limited services. That said, many of Iceland’s most popular regions, including the Golden Circle, the South Coast and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, are accessible and well suited to a February trip.
Is it easy to drive in Iceland in February?
Driving in Iceland in February can be straightforward on main roads when conditions are good, but it’s not always easy. Weather can change quickly, and winter driving requires focus, flexibility and confidence. Travellers who are comfortable driving in snow and wind usually manage well, while those with little winter driving experience may prefer guided tours.
What type of vehicle should I book for Iceland in February?
A 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended for February travel. It offers better traction, stability and clearance on snowy or icy roads, and gives you more flexibility if conditions change.
Should I book a rental car in advance for February?
Yes. While February is a quieter travel month, booking your rental car in advance ensures better availability, better pricing and enough time to choose the right vehicle and insurance for winter driving.
