What’s the weather like in Reykjavik? Well, there is a saying in Iceland: “If you don’t like the weather right now, stay for five minutes.” This is a clear indication of a changing climate, and most of the time, travelers will experience all four annual seasons in the span of one day.
In reality, the climate in Reykjavik is milder than its proximity to the Arctic would imply. The climate is mostly cool with a temperate climate. This is due to the moderating effect of a branch of the Gulf Stream that flows along the southern and western coast of the country. Sea temperatures can rise up to 10 degrees Celsius on the south and west coast. There are some deviations in the climate in different parts of Iceland. As a general rule, the south coast is warmer, but also windier and wetter than the north.
Heavy snowfalls are common in the northern regions.
Reykjavik is in the southwest, and the coastline is literally dotted with coves, islands, and peninsulas. It is a large and sprawling city, with suburbs stretching to the south and east. Reykjavik’s climate is considered subpolar oceanic. Even if the temperature just drops below –15 degrees Celsius in winter, thanks once again to the moderating effect of the Gulf, the city is prone to gusts of wind, and gales are not uncommon in the winter months. The city offers little protection from ocean winds, and even if Reykjavik is a beautiful tourist destination with considerably milder temperatures than expected, tourists from sunnier locations will find it cold.
Fast weather data
- Hottest Month: July (52 F / 11 C)
- Coldest Month: January (32 F / 0 C)
- Wettest Month: January (1.97 inches)
Volcanic activity in Reykjavik
Many of us will not forget the impact that Iceland’s volcanic eruptions in 2010 had on a global scale. The massive ash cloud that was emitted into the atmosphere caused the closure of airspaces for days. Additionally, the eruption led to melting of the ice, and Iceland was subjected to massive flooding just after the initial disaster. However, Iceland has been hit by many, many natural disasters in its existence, and the authorities have handled the situations successfully and efficiently. Areas in the danger zone will be evacuated at the first sign of activity, so don’t let the slight possibility put a brake on your journey.
Primavera in Reykjavik
Spring usually arrives in April, as temperatures warm and the days lengthen. While the mild temperatures won’t hit until June, or even later, visiting in the spring is a smart idea for travelers. It’s shoulder season, which means great deals for savvy travelers who want to beat the rush of summer tourists. Spring is also a great season for fishing, whale watching, and golf.
What to pack: Iceland’s unpredictable spring weather means you’ll want to be prepared for many different types of weather. Must-have packages include a rain jacket, padded coat or jacket, fleece vest (for layering), thermal tops and pants, and waterproof hiking boots.
Average temperatures per month
March: 32 F (0 C)
Abril:Â 37 F (3 C)
Mayo: 43 F ​​(6 C)
Summer in Reykjavik
Iceland’s summer season runs from June to September and can be surprisingly warm. Temperatures generally average around 57 F (14 C), but do not reach temperatures of up to 68 F (20 C). Summer is also Reykjavik’s driest season; on average, the city receives about 3/4 inch of rain per month during this time. Visiting in summer has another benefit: Iceland is one of the Lands of the Midnight Sun. As you would rightly assume, this means there are virtually no periods of darkness during the summer months.
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What to pack : A summer packing list isn’t much different than packing for spring or fall in Iceland, you’ll still need your coat, base layers, and waterproof footwear, but other smart additions to your suitcase include sunglasses and tall. sunscreen factor
Average temperatures per month
Junio:Â 48 F (9 C)
Julio:Â 52 F (11 C)
August : 52 F (11 C)
Fall in Reykjavik
If you want to enjoy your trip to the fullest, and at the best price, take advantage of the beginning of autumn, just after the peak tourist season in summer. In addition to the relatively good weather, daylight hours remain long, with distinguishable sunsets. Temperatures drop a bit in September and October, but it’s still a great time to visit. The season marks the beginning of the Northern Lights season, and the city hosts many film, art and music festivals.
What to pack: At the risk of sounding counterintuitive, remember to bring your bathing suits, even in the fall. Swimsuits? In winter? In the Arctic? It’s okay. Reykjavik is famous for its natural hot springs all year round. Regardless of the time of year you travel, hot springs are a must.
Average temperatures per month
September: 45 F (7 C)
October: 39 F (4 C)
November: 37 F (3 C)
Winter in Reykjavik
The height of the cold months lasts from November to April, with average daily temperatures of 39 F (4 C). The coldest period is typically towards the end of January, with highs around freezing. The temperatures are surprisingly similar to those in cities like Hamburg or New York. The winter weather is really quite bearable, as long as the wind keeps a low profile. Almost the opposite of summer’s uninterrupted daylight, winter sees a period of polar nights, where the sun rises around lunchtime and sets again in the afternoon.
What to pack: Winter can be bleak for the uninitiated, but discovering and exploring this unique country will be worth the initial discomfort. For those of us who are more cold-blooded among us, a heavy and sturdy jacket or coat along with all the winter trimmings will be enough to keep you comfortable. Also, don’t forget your wool socks, thermal base layers, and lip balm.
Average temperatures per month
December: 36 F (2 C)
Enero: 32 F (0 C)
February: 32 F (0 C)
Average monthly temperature, rainfall and hours of daylight
Northern Lights and Midnight Sun in Iceland
Along the southern edge of the Arctic Circle, you can see the Northern Lights (or Northern Lights) regularly in Iceland, making the country one of the best places in the world to catch the phenomenon. The best chance to see the lights is from the end of September to the end of March.
The Northern Lights are not visible from mid-April to mid-August due to another unique phenomenon: the midnight sun. During late spring through summer, Iceland experiences almost continuous daylight. It never gets completely dark during this period, instead looking like a dark dawn.
