If you’re planning a trip to Iceland in spring, you’re in for an absolute adventure. Iceland in spring is that perfect in-between season where you get a little bit of everything: snow-dusted landscapes, melting ice caves, thundering waterfalls, and maybe even a glimpse of the Northern Lights before the midnight sun takes over.
Though springtime promises brighter days as the country emerges from a dark winter, the weather is, as always, remarkably unpredictable. One minute you’re watching the sun light up a rainbow over an iconic waterfall, and the next, the wind is pelting rain at you sideways. That’s Iceland for you. Constantly keeping you on your toes.
From insulated jackets to waterproof footwear, I’ll help you be prepared for any weather scenario with my suggestions for some ideal Iceland outfit ideas for spring.
What to Wear In Iceland In Spring
Layers Are A Necessity For Iceland Spring
The only thing consistent about Iceland’s weather is its unpredictability. The weather can vary greatly from month to month, day to day, and even hour to hour.
Expect the unexpected and be prepared for every type of weather. The easiest way to accomplish that is to pack appropriate layers when you’re piecing together your Iceland outfits in spring. This allows you to adjust to whatever the land of fire and ice hurls your way.
Base Layer (Stay Warm & Dry)
Your base layer is your first defense against the cold, and it needs to wick away sweat while keeping you warm. Yes, spring brings brighter days and mildly warmer temperatures, but even on the warmest spring day, there’s a considerable chill in the air.
Merino wool or synthetic materials are perfect base layer options for keeping you warm and dry on your adventures.
Top: Long-sleeve thermal top (merino wool is ideal).
Bottoms: Thermal leggings or moisture-wicking tights.
Middle Layer (Insulation is Key)
This is your warmth layer. Fleece, down, or wool are great options designed to trap heat without being too bulky. When you arrive in the country, consider buying an Icelandic wool sweater for a beautiful, one-of-a-kind, practical middle layer.
Top: A fleece jacket or Icelandic wool sweater (what a special souvenir too!)
Bottoms: At this time of year, I don’t think you’ll find fleece-lined leggings to be overkill. You’ll be grateful for that extra, cozy warmth.
Outer Layer (Your Shield Against Iceland’s Chaotic Weather)
Iceland in spring has the potential to be wet, windy, and cold. Often it’ll deliver all three at once. You’re outer layer will be your ultimate protection against all of the above. Whether adventuring in the rain or merely dodging the spray of a powerful waterfall on a windy day, a waterproof jacket will be your best friend.
Top: A waterproof, windproof jacket. Extra brownie points if it’s long enough to cover significant portions of your body.
Bottoms: Waterproof pants. You’ve got the jacket already, so you might as well complete the look. Though you won’t win any fashion awards, you’ll be grateful you’re staying dry.
What Shoes to Wear For Iceland In Spring
Choosing the right footwear is crucial for an Iceland trip. Whether you’re hiking to waterfalls or just strolling through Reykjavik, your shoes will make or break your comfort. Here’s what to pack:
Waterproof Hiking Boots: This is the most important pair of shoes you will pack for your trip to Iceland. Iceland’s notorious for its spectacular natural landscape, and there’s no better way to explore it than by hiking! From rocky, muddy, and icy terrain to river crossings of varying depths, your adventures will be a far cry from a stroll in the park. But that’s part of what makes it all the more exciting. Look for shoes with a sturdy sole and ample ankle support.
Waterproof Low or Midrise Boots: For the days when you’re strolling around Reykjavik but the rain isn’t letting up, a comfy pair of waterproof low or midrise boots will keep your feet dry and comfortable as you navigate the city.
Casual Sneakers: Honestly, if you’re packing light, just leave your sneakers at home. They’re not a necessity, but can be a preferred choice over hiking boots when you’re enjoying the city on a nice, sunny day or spending long hours in the car between attractions.
Slip on Sandals for Hot Springs: Again, not necessary, but slip-on sandals are something easy to throw on and off when visiting hot springs such as the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon. They’ll be less practical for natural hot pots in the middle of nature. If you have to walk through the Icelandic landscape to get there, stick to your hiking boots.
Waterproof Gaiters (Optional but useful!): For serious hikes that take you through trickier terrain, waterproof gaiters can be a welcome addition to prevent water, mud, or snow from entering your boots.
Spring Outfit Ideas For Iceland: Month By Month
Your outfit on any given day will depend not only on the weather, which varies from month to month, but also on which adventures you choose to embark on. Here are some practical (and when they can be, stylish) outfit ideas.
March Outfit Ideas For Iceland
As March hits, the country begins to thaw and moods brighten as daylight lengthens. It’s time to get outside and enjoy the start of spring. That being said, March is still the coldest of the spring months.
For Exploring Waterfalls
Iceland has an abundance of spectacular waterfalls, varying greatly in size, power, and difficulty to get to. Some require hours of hiking, some are a short stroll from the parking lot, some you can walk behind, and some can be viewed on the go from your car.
One thing is for certain, whether standing at the base or looking down from above, if you’re anywhere near the waterfall, you’ll feel its spray courtesy of the fierce Icelandic winds.
Base Layer: Thermal top and leggings
Middle Layer: Fleece or Icelandic wool sweater
Outer Layer: Waterproof jacket, beanie or buff, gloves, and scarf.
Why it works: Waterproof is the name of the game when visiting waterfalls. These outfit choices tend to forgo style in favor of practicality to stay dry and warm.
For Northern Lights Chasing
March in Iceland falls within the Northern Lights season, so you have the added gift of being able to tackle hikes and visit iconic attractions during the day and chase the elusive Northern Lights at night.
The downside to a hunt for Northern Lights…the waiting. Everything has to line up just so for the Northern Lights to be visible. This means you’ll need to bundle up to protect against the cold while you wait for this once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Base Layer: Merino wool all day, every day.
Middle Layer: Fleece or Icelandic wool sweater
Outer Layer: Insulated parka, beanie, gloves, and snow boots
Why it works: Northern Lights viewing is not an active activity. Whether you’re waiting for the lights, watching them dance, or taking that perfect photograph, you’ll be standing still on a cold night. When deciding what to wear in Iceland in March, warmth and insulation are key.
For Reykjavik Wandering
This is your day to dress how you want and mix a little more style with function. You’ll likely be spending much of your day inside museums, iconic landmarks, cafes, and shops, meaning you won’t have to face the same fierce elements as you would on a strictly outdoor adventure.
Base layer: Thermal top and leggings (jeans are also fine if it’s not raining)
Middle layer: Wool or fleece sweater
Outer layer: Waterproof coat, scarf, and beanie
Shoes: Waterproof ankle boots that can handle light rain
Why it works: You’ll be walking plenty, and could be walking in the rain between locations. It’s necessary to have appropriate shoes and a rain jacket on hand, but you’re also in a city environment and largely indoors. These clothing items allow room for both warmth and style.
For A Glacier Tour
When I hear glacier tour I think “epic adventure.” I also think cold. A glacier tour is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that involves hiking and also often includes exploring an ice cave. It’s made even more unique by the fact that the ice is constantly changing, so this experience you’re having may never be experienced in the exact same way again. The right clothes make or break such an experience. Here’s what to wear.
Base layer: Thermal top and leggings
Middle Layer: Lightweight fleece
Outer Layer: Waterproof jacket and insulated ski pants
Shoes: Heavy-duty hiking boots
Why it works: This is a scenario where function and comfort should absolutely take priority over style. Your pictures will be extraordinary no matter what you’re wearing. This outfit suggestion allows you to stay both warm and dry, a perfect combo for the physical exertion involved with hiking and the cold temperatures (after all, you are dealing with lots and lots of ice).
Iceland Outfit Ideas For April
For Golden Circle Sightseeing
The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most iconic tourist attractions. It’s the perfect introduction to Iceland’s unique landscape. You’re gifted spectacular sights that are easy to get to. You’ll want to dress for warmth, but also don’t have to overdo it with heavy-duty equipment.
Base layer: Thermal top and leggings
Middle layer: Wool or fleece sweater
Outer layer: Waterproof hiking pants, waterproof jacket
Shoes: Low-rise hiking boots
Why it works: Because the Golden Circle is a major tourist hot spot, the paths are paved and easily accessible. You won’t be required to do any intense hiking over rocky terrain and can stick to more lightweight layers. On a nice day, you might even be able to sneak in a little bit of style with your function-first outfit choice.
For A Road Trip
Iceland and road trips go hand in hand. From glacier lagoons and ice caves to waterfalls and hot springs, there’s so much to see. You’ll be spending plenty of time in the car to get from place to place. But don’t worry, there’s no shortage of breathtaking landscapes to see along the way. The best part? You can ditch some of your layers, kick back, and enjoy the ride.
Base layer: Thermal top and leggings
Middle/Outer Layer: Lightweight down jacket or knit sweater
Shoes: Sneakers or hiking boots if you don’t feel like changing shoes when you arrive at each destination
Why it works: There’s no need to dress in bulky layers while you’re spending hours in a car. All you need is your classic thermal base layer and a lightweight jacket on top. Of course, you’ll want to bring all of your heavy-duty layers to stay warm and dry at each of your outdoor stops, but throw that all in the trunk and enjoy the freedom of fewer layers.
For A Cozy Cafe Day
Sometimes, after days of outdoor adventuring and bracing against the wind and rain, nothing sounds better than a quiet day in a cozy Reykjavik cafe. If you’re wondering what to wear in Iceland in April for a casual cafe hangout, my note to you is that this is where your style can really shine through.
Base layer: Jeans and a long-sleeved shirt
Outer layer: Wool sweater and a warm scarf
Shoes: Sneakers or stylish ankle boots
Why it works: Even in a cafe, there’s still a bit of a chill in the air in April in Iceland, but a cozy sweater and scarf will be enough to do the trick to keep you warm. Add a hot drink to the mix and you’re set! You’re not walking long distances or battling the elements, so for the rest of your outfit, enjoy whatever clothes make you feel good.
For Hot Spring Visits
Every time of year is the perfect time for hot springs. Whether you’re adventuring out to a hot pot in a remote landscape or enjoying a luxurious soak at the iconic Blue Lagoon, there’s an abundance of opportunities to enjoy the benefits of Iceland’s easy access to geothermal energy. Here’s what you need to enjoy one of the most relaxing parts of your trip.
Base layer: A swimsuit!
Outer layer: Thermal leggings and an oversized hoodie
Shoes: Slip-on sandals or hiking boots if there’s hiking required to get to the hot spring
Why it works: Bringing a swimsuit to a country with ice in its name seems counterintuitive, but you’ll be so happy you have one to take advantage of the hot springs. The rest of your outfit is merely to keep you warm until you get in the water. But really, as long as you have a swimsuit, the rest is up to you!
May Outfit Ideas For Iceland
For Hiking & Exploring
The snow’s cleared the roads, the days are brighter, everything’s coming back to life, and peak summer tourism hasn’t kicked in yet. May in Iceland is the perfect time to get outside and explore! While it’s not exactly warm outside, you’ll be on the move working up a sweat, so if you’re wondering what to wear in Iceland in May for hiking, you can start by leaving some of the heavy-duty winter gear behind.
Base layer: Merino wool everything!
Middle layer: Fleece or wool sweater
Outer layer: Lightweight down jacket or waterproof rain jacket if it’s raining
Shoes: Ankle hiking boots
Why it works: A moisture-wicking base layer is key here to keep you dry as you get the blood pumping. Once you get moving and start to warm up, you may be able to ditch either the middle or outer layer depending on what the weather throws your way.
For City Strolling
Whether you’re visiting iconic sites or picking up a souvenir to take home, a day of city strolling allows for some leeway in your attire. Appropriate shoes are the number one priority here as you’ll be doing a significant amount of walking. The rest can be adjusted to match your desired style and address whatever weather is present that day.
Base layer: Jeans and a long-sleeved shirt
Middle layer: Knitted sweater
Outer layer: Rain jacket on a rainy day
Shoes: If you have a comfortable pair of sneakers, great! If it’s raining or your sneakers lack the support for extended walking, opt for waterproof boots
Why it works: You could be battling less-than-ideal weather. You’ll also be getting your steps in. But you’ll be walking on paved ground, spending time indoors, and even when outdoors, you have quick, easy access to an indoor escape from the elements. This outfit suggestion allows you to dress with both style and function in mind.
For A Boat Tour
Iceland boat tours encompass a wide range of activities. It could mean whale watching, a puffin boat tour, a tour through a glacier lagoon, or a New Year’s Eve celebration at sea. But what do all of these have in common? You’re outside on a boat in a cold country that experiences significant amounts of wind. The bottom line is you need to find some way to stay warm.
Base layer: Merino wool top and fleece-lined leggings
Middle layer: fleece or wool sweater
Outer layer: Insulated down jacket and rain jacket if necessary, beanie or buff, scarf, and gloves
Why it works: Experiencing Iceland from a boat is such a unique way to view the country. In this situation, the number one priority is warmth. Get those layers on, bundle up with cozy accessories, and enjoy ignoring the cold and embracing the experience.
For A Relaxing Day
Everyone needs a relaxing day every now and then, particularly on a trip so packed with adventure. Your outfit choice will depend on how you spend your day. Are you posting up in a small town cafe? You’ll only need the bare minimum to stay warm. Are you taking a stroll out to the Reykjavik harbor to watch the boats and bask in the calm of the water? Throw on some extra outer gear. This outfit suggestion covers all bases for a relaxing day.
Base layer: Comfy leggings and any long-sleeved shirt
Middle layer: Oversized sweater
Outer layer: Windbreaker
Shoes: Sneakers
Why it works: This versatile outfit suggestion allows you to be prepared for any type of indoor or outdoor casual activity. You’ll be comfortable and warm with the option to throw in a dash of style.
Spring Weather in Iceland: What You’re Up Against
Spring in Iceland is a mixed bag. Some days feel almost warm (by Icelandic standards), while others will feel like winter is lingering. Here’s what you’re looking at month by month.
March: Still quite wintery—expect the possibility of snow, strong winds, and temperatures between -1°C to 4°C (30-39°F). Layering is essential.
April: Everything starts to thaw, but it’s still chilly, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 7°C (32-45°F). Rain becomes more frequent.
May: The warmest of the three months, but let’s not get carried away—it’s still Iceland. Temperatures hover around 4°C to 11°C (39-52°F), and while it’s less snowy, the wind and rain love to make guest appearances.
What to Pack for Iceland in the Spring: The Essentials
At this point, you’re probably sick of hearing me say it, but when figuring out what to pack for Iceland in the spring, think layers and practicality first, fashion second. Here’s your must-pack list to prepare you for any scenario.
Clothing
Merino wool/thermal tops and bottoms – Your base layer of clothing that is essential for warmth and moisture wicking.
Fleece or wool sweater – Your middle layer of clothing. (Icelandic wool sweaters (lopapeysa) are perfect!)
Fleece-lined leggings or hiking pants – Also part of your middle layer of clothing.
Waterproof & windproof jacket – For rainy days and exploring waterfalls. May visitors may get away with a light waterproof jacket over warm layers. March or April visitors may want to consider a waterproof winter coat with insulation.
Waterproof pants – Rain is practically a constant. You’ll be grateful for waterproof pants. Ski pants can be appropriate for March and April. Hiking pants will probably get the job done in May.
Shoes
Waterproof ankle hiking boots – Absolutely necessary, particularly for chasing waterfalls and for more serious hikes, including on glaciers.
Waterproof low or midrise boots – These are more suitable for casual hikes or exploring Reykjavik.
Casual sneakers – For city exploring on a nice day.
Slip-on sandals – If you plan on visiting hot springs such as the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon, these could be useful.
Accessories
Gloves – Waterproof and insulated. If they’re touchscreen gloves, even better. No need for your hands to freeze while you’re taking epic pictures.
Scarf of buff – To protect against windburn. The wind is no joke.
Sunglasses – The sun, snow, and water reflections can be blinding.
Swimsuit (Yes, really!) – Iceland’s geothermal pools are a welcome activity any time of year. If you’re visiting a hot pot in the middle of nature, bring along a microfiber towel too.
Other Essentials To Add To Your Iceland Packing List For Spring
Power bank and adapter – Cold weather drains phone batteries fast.
A small daypack/hiking backpack – With the snow lifting and more hours of daylight, spring is the perfect time of year to start tackling some of Iceland’s spectacular hiking trails. A small backpack allows you to bring along the essentials.
Reusable water bottle – You’ll never taste better water than Icelandic tap water. It’s fresh, pure, and free! Turn the faucet all the way to cold and enjoy the best water in the world.
Camera and tripod – Iceland is a source of inspiration for photographers. You’re presented with spectacular landscapes after spectacular landscapes. Whether capturing the Northern Lights in March or early April, or a rainbow arcing over Gullfoss waterfall, you’ll be glad you brought your camera and tripod for those iconic, postcard-worthy shots.
Final Thoughts On What To Wear In Iceland In Spring
Spring in Iceland can feel like winter, autumn, and summer, sometimes all in a single day. The landscapes are stunning, but the season is wild. In these unpredictable circumstances, packing layers is crucial.
With this guide to what to pack for Iceland in spring, you’ll be ready to combat any weather scenario. Long story short, bring waterproof everything, thermal layers to wick sweat, and leave your umbrella at home because it doesn’t stand a chance against the Icelandic winds.
With the right Iceland spring clothes, you’ll be able to soak in your adventures instead of constantly wondering how soon until you can go inside and get warm. So get packing! The land of fire and ice is about to present you with the adventure of a lifetime!
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