Iceland in March: Weather, Northern Lights and What to Do

March sits at a beautiful crossroads in Iceland. Winter hasn't quite let go, but spring is already nudging its way in. Days stretch noticeably longer, with around 11 to 13 hours of daylight by the end of the month, and the landscapes shift between snow-dusted highlands and the first hints of green along the coast. It is, for many travellers, the sweet spot.

Weather in March

Expect temperatures between -2°C and 5°C in the capital area, though wind chill can make it feel colder. Storms can roll in quickly, especially in the first half of the month, but they tend to pass just as fast. The south coast sees milder conditions than the north, and Reykjavik itself often enjoys calm, crisp days between fronts.

Layering is everything. A windproof outer shell, thermal base layers, and waterproof boots will see you through most conditions. The weather is changeable but rarely extreme if you dress for it.

Northern Lights in March

March is one of the best months for aurora hunting. The nights are still dark enough for vivid displays, but the temperatures are more forgiving than December or January. Clear skies tend to appear more frequently as the month progresses, and the spring equinox around 20 March often brings strong geomagnetic activity.

For a deeper dive into reading aurora data, see our Northern Lights forecast guide. Head away from Reykjavik's light pollution for the best views. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Thingvellir National Park, and the area around Vik are all excellent spots. Many guided tours run until late March, making it one of the last reliable windows before the midnight sun takes over.

What to Do in March

The Golden Circle is fully accessible and less crowded than in summer. Glacier hikes on Solheimajokull and Vatnajokull run daily. Ice cave tours in the southeast are still available in early March, though they typically close by mid-month as temperatures rise.

Whale watching from Reykjavik harbour operates year-round, and March often brings calm seas. The Reykjavik food scene is lively, with DesignMarch (Iceland's annual design festival) typically falling in late March, bringing exhibitions, talks, and studio tours across the city.

For road trippers, the Ring Road is generally passable, though the north and east can still see closures after heavy snowfall. The south coast route from Reykjavik to Vik is the most reliable stretch.

Costs and Crowds

March falls in the shoulder season, which means lower accommodation prices than summer and fewer tourists at popular sites. You will still find availability at most guesthouses without booking months ahead, and car rental rates are noticeably cheaper.

Budget travellers will appreciate that fuel costs remain stable and many attractions (waterfalls, beaches, geothermal areas) are free to visit.

Is March Right for You?

If you want northern lights without the deep freeze of midwinter, if you prefer fewer crowds but still want full access to major attractions, and if you enjoy that dramatic transition between seasons, then March is hard to beat. It offers the best of both worlds without the extremes of either.

Planning Your March Trip

March is ideal for day trips from Reykjavik, especially the Golden Circle and Reykjanes Peninsula. If you are travelling solo, the mix of affordable prices and improving weather makes March one of the best months. For a more ambitious itinerary, our Ring Road guide covers what is accessible in early spring.