How to Choose the Best Time of Year to Elope in Iceland: A Photographer’s Guide

Iceland is one of the most stunning places in the world to elope, but with its ever-changing landscapes and weather conditions, choosing the right time of year can make all the difference in your experience and your photos. As a wedding photographer who has worked with couples in Iceland for years, I’ve had the pleasure of capturing weddings during every season. Let me walk you through how to choose the best time to elope in Iceland based on your vision, preferences, and what to expect from both nature and the photography.

1. The Magic of Summer: Endless Days & Golden Hour Glories

Best Time: Late June to early September
Pros: Long daylight hours, milder temperatures, vibrant landscapes, abundant wildflowers, easy access to remote locations.
Cons: Popularity means more tourists, prices might be higher for accommodations and services.

Why Summer is Special: In the summer months, Iceland experiences the “midnight sun,” where the sun barely sets, offering nearly 24 hours of daylight. This is perfect for couples who want to make the most of their elopement day with breathtaking photos at any time of day. The soft golden light around sunset (even if it’s only for a couple of hours) is ideal for romantic portraits and stunning landscape shots.

Summer also provides the opportunity for outdoor activities like horseback riding, hiking, and kayaking on glaciers, making it the perfect season for adventurous couples. The weather is relatively mild, with temperatures averaging between 10-15°C (50-59°F), but it’s always important to pack layers just in case.

Photographic Highlights:

• Soft, long light for portraits.

• Vibrant green landscapes and blooming flowers.

• Unique locations like the Highlands or the West Fjords area are accessible.

Pro Tip: If you prefer a more private, intimate elopement, consider locations away from the popular tourist areas to avoid crowds or if you are really set on getting photos at most popular spots you can avoid crowds by shooting very late in the evening because it will still be bright.

2. Fall: Vibrant Colors and Magical Light

Best Time: Late September to mid-November
Pros: Fewer tourists, stunning fall colors, cooler but still manageable weather, lower prices.
Cons: Shorter days, unpredictable weather.

Why Fall is Special: As summer fades into autumn, Iceland transforms into a landscape full of fiery oranges, reds, and yellows. If you love the idea of having a fall-themed elopement surrounded by dramatic foliage, fall is the ideal time to get married in Iceland. Though the weather can be unpredictable (rain and wind are common), the golden light of autumn and the relatively mild temperatures make it worth the adventure.

This is also a great time to capture the Northern Lights, which start appearing in late September and can be visible through early April. If seeing the aurora borealis is part of your dream elopement, fall might offer the best combination of chances and daylight hours.

Photographic Highlights:

• Autumn foliage provides vibrant contrast with Iceland’s unique volcanic landscapes.

• Northern Lights photography opportunities increase.

• Quieter locations due to fewer tourists.

Pro Tip: Since the weather can change rapidly, be prepared for some unpredictability, and embrace whatever the weather (let me tell you a little secret: crazy weather always makes great stories and memorable experiences).

3. Winter: A Dreamy Wonderland of Ice and Snow

Best Time: December to February
Pros: Snow-covered landscapes, fewer tourists, dramatic winter light, great for adventure elopements.
Cons: Short days, cold weather, limited accessibility to some areas.

Why Winter is Special: Iceland in winter is a true wonderland, with snow-covered mountains, frozen waterfalls, and glaciers offering an almost surreal backdrop for an elopement. Though the days are much shorter (with only 4-5 hours of daylight in December), the low sun casts a soft, ethereal glow that adds magic to your photos and it is perfect for photography all day long! Plus, the quietness of winter means fewer tourists, making this an ideal time for couples who want a secluded and intimate elopement.

If you dream of standing on an ice sheet or beneath a waterfall surrounded by frozen icicles, winter offers some of the best photo opportunities. The glaciers turn more blue in the winter and look even more spectacular. The Northern Lights are also more visible during the winter months, making it a prime season for aurora borealis shots.

Photographic Highlights:

• Snow-covered landscapes and ice caves create dramatic scenes.

• Northern Lights can be captured in the dark hours of the night.

• Unique opportunities to photograph icebergs, glaciers, and frozen waterfalls.

Pro Tip: Be prepared for cold weather, and make sure you’re dressed in layers (nude leggings for brides), and have sturdy boots. Don’t forget about thermals and hand warmers, they always come in handy in Iceland.

4. Spring: Fresh Blooms and Tranquil Landscapes

Best Time: March to late May
Pros: Fewer tourists, snowmelt reveals waterfalls, milder weather compared to winter.
Cons: Weather can still be unpredictable, some areas may be inaccessible due to snow.

Why Spring is Special: Spring in Iceland is when the landscapes begin to come back to life after the long winter. Waterfalls become fuller due to melting snow, and the first greenery start to bloom. The weather can still be a bit chilly, but it’s usually more pleasant than winter, with fewer crowds than the summer months.

Spring is a great time to capture the transition from snow-covered landscapes to lush green fields and to photograph the unique contrasts between winter’s remnants and the season’s new life.

Photographic Highlights:

• Waterfalls at their fullest after the snowmelt.

• Soft spring light and pastel skies.

• Fewer tourists, meaning more peaceful settings for photos.

Pro Tip: Pack for changing conditions, as Iceland’s weather can shift rapidly. Be prepared for both rain and sunshine, and always check the forecast before venturing out.

Ultimately, the best time to elope in Iceland depends on what kind of experience and photography you're looking for. Whether you choose the endless days of summer, the vibrant colors of fall, the snowy wonderland of winter, or the quiet rejuvenation of spring, Iceland offers incredible opportunities for a breathtaking elopement. Each season has its own magic, and as a photographer, I’m always excited to capture the beauty of Iceland no matter the time of year.

If you’re ready to plan your Icelandic elopement, feel free to reach out, and I’d be happy to help you choose the perfect time of year to bring your dream wedding to life!