The Weather & Temperature in Iceland

There's No Wrong Time to Visit Iceland!

It's true! While the weather and seasons in Iceland vary significantly throughout the year, Iceland is one of the most exciting countries to visit for nature lovers. There is fantastic natural beauty to take in all 12 months of the year. Summer will bring the midnight sun, and winter will bring the gorgeous northern lights.

Some experiences available in December aren't available in June - and vice versa. In June, you can experience the midnight sun, see puffins, enjoy generally warmer temperatures, go camping, and more.

In contrast, December brings out the options of northern light tours, ice cave tours, the magical twinkly lights of the Iceland Christmas season, and more. No one season holds all the activities Iceland has to offer. There is truly something for everyone in every season.

Visiting Iceland during the down season is a better time for encountering fewer crowds. Summer is typically the busiest season, but you can still find wide-open spaces to explore, even during this period. The activities are so nature-focused that you can always find a way to avoid the crowds.

• Learn more about Iceland in Summer and Iceland in Winter
• See also: The Best Itineraries in Iceland | Self-Drive Summer and Winter Adventures

What's the Weather Like in Iceland?

Iceland does have four seasons, although sometimes it doesn't feel that way. The weather changes all the time! This means Iceland's weather year-round is prone to many changes and surprises. 

You'll probably hear the joke "if you don't like the weather, wait five minutes!" when you're in Iceland. Many people think that Iceland is constantly frozen, but that is not the case. 

Understanding the Climate in Iceland

Iceland enjoys a much milder climate than its name suggests. This is partly due to the Gulf Stream that flows along the west and south of Iceland, bringing warmth from the Caribbean.

This warmth also means that the mild Atlantic air gets mixed with the cold Arctic air coming from the north and causes sudden and frequent weather changes.

Therefore, there is a lot of wind and stormy weather. Precipitation is also high, while the southern part of the country usually gets more rainfall than the north.

Another reason for the warmth in Iceland is that Iceland sits on top of one of the earth's hot spots. Iceland is a country of incredible geothermal power. You can bathe in hot springs, see erupting geysers, visit volcanoes, and feel occasional earthquakes.

Iceland is one of the few places in the world where you can see two tectonic plates meet on the earth's surface, as they usually meet under the sea.

Iceland is divided by the Eurasian and the North American tectonic plates. The divide runs through the country's middle and is visible at Thingvellir National Park. You can even go diving or snorkeling between the two continents in the Silfra fissure! These tectonic movements will split Iceland in two in a few billion years. But until then, let's make the most of it!

• Learn about Earthquakes in Iceland
• See also: Tectonic Plates in Iceland and Where to Find Them

Don't be put off by volcanic activity or earthquakes in Iceland. When a volcano starts erupting, it tends to become an attraction instead of a reason for people to flee. Earthquakes are generally very minor, and larger events are very rare.

Reykjavik Weather 

The weather in Reykjavik averages around 23-35,6 F° (-5-2 C°) in wintertime and 54-60 F° (12-15 C°) in summer.

In the summer, temperatures can fluctuate, sometimes dropping to 44°F (7°C) or reaching up to 77°F (25°C) on particularly warm days. During winter, temperatures can dip as low as 14°F (-10°C), though milder days may see highs of 50°F (10°C).

Reykjavik generally enjoys milder conditions compared to more northern parts of Iceland, where temperatures can vary more dramatically.

North Iceland Weather

Summers in North Iceland tend to be warmer but shorter than along the South Coast. Even during the summer months, chilly days can occur, especially in the Highlands.

Winters in North Iceland are colder, with average temperatures hovering around 32°F (0°C), though they can drop as low as 5°F (-15°C). The winter also brings more consistent snow, making it ideal for winter sports and creating a true winter landscape. It's no surprise then that the largest town in the region, Akureyri, is considered the best place for skiing in Iceland.

Iceland Westfjords Weather

Summers in the Westfjords of Iceland tend to be cooler and shorter compared to other parts of the country, with average high temperatures around 50°F (10°C) in July, the warmest month. However, even during summer, conditions can be unpredictable, with occasional rain or chilly winds.

Winters in the Westfjords can be harsh, with some towns becoming inaccessible due to heavy snowfall. It's best to leave Westfjord tours for the summertime, so you don't have to worry about weather delays.

What's the Best Season to Visit Iceland?

All seasons in Iceland have something great about them. 

Summer is the country's high season and the most popular time to come to Iceland. Iceland's summer weather is milder, the days are longer, and it's a truly spectacular time to visit. If you're coming to Iceland for the first time, we recommend doing so in the summertime.

If you are coming to Iceland for the second or third time, we'd recommend checking out one of the other seasons.

The prices will be lower for your accommodation (except for Christmas and New Year's Eve!) as it is the low season, but you will see a great contrast to the summer landscapes.

Some attractions are only available during the winter, such as the elusive northern lights and the spectacular ice caves in Iceland's many glaciers.

You could also find yourself on a crazy adventure that includes super jeeps and snow blizzards and come home with slightly more fun and exciting travel stories than usual. And nothing beats New Year's Eve in Reykjavik!

For updated information about Iceland's climate and weather conditions, visit the Icelandic Meteorological Office website.

Just remember that the weather in Iceland can be highly unpredictable (even in the summer), so all forecasts should be considered best guesses.

Spring Weather in Iceland

While spring comes to Iceland in April and May, Icelanders celebrate the first day of summer on the first Thursday after April 18. It's the 'official' first day of summer and a public holiday. It's also not that uncommon for snow to fall on this day.

Though this is considered the first summer day, it would be more accurate to say it's the first spring day.

Iceland can sometimes have snowfall during April and May, but generally, this is when the snow melts in the mountains and highlands, allowing the flowers of Reykjavik and its coastline to start blooming.

Spring is also when migrating birds appear in Iceland, such as the famous puffins. The first puffins return in April and stay until September.

Another bird, the golden plover, is supposed to bring spring along with it. You can see the first golden plovers towards the end of March.

• Learn more: Iceland in Spring - The Ultimate Travel Guide
• See also: Icelandic Birdlife

Springtime weather in Reykjavik can be anything from snow, sleet, and rain, to bright sunny days. Iceland's average temperature in spring is between 32-50 F (0-10 C). Springtime can be wet in the southern part of the country but drier (and colder) in North Iceland.

The Icelandic Highlands are colder than the coastline and are closed to traffic during the spring. The colors of nature will start to emerge at this time. The grass may not be very tall or green yet, but tree leaves will be close to returning.

Spring flowers such as crocus and Easter lilies will begin poking their heads out of people's gardens. You might even see some spring flowers blossom on tree branches.

Generally, the end of winter lifts people's spirits, and there's excitement in the air for the summer that's around the corner.

Spring is an excellent time for tourists to come to Iceland. You can still catch the northern lights, the weather is mild, and the high season hasn't started yet, so fewer tourists are around and lower prices.

It should also be easier for you to find accommodation and tour availability.

Information About Iceland Spring Weather by Month (And More)

• Iceland Weather in March

• Iceland Weather in April

• Iceland Weather in May

Summer Weather in Iceland - The Most Popular Season

Iceland's summer starts in late May or early June and lasts through August. It's the most popular time for people to visit Iceland.

The midnight sun appears, meaning the days are incredibly long. The longest days last close to 21 hours until the sun sets. Therefore, if you rent an affordable car in Iceland, you will have the freedom to explore the country around the clock!

• See more: Best Advice For Renting a Car in Iceland

The days get longer and longer until the solstice falls around June 21st. The days get shorter after the summer solstice, but only by a minute or two each day. The sunsets turn into sunrises in spectacular shows of color that can last for hours. Iceland is a paradise for photographers who want to capture nature during the "golden hour."

• See also: Photography in Iceland

These long days with balmy Iceland summer temperatures are convenient for travelers; you won't ever get lost in the dark or need to reach a destination before night falls.

There is no complete darkness! Don't worry, you'll still be able to sleep. Just use blackout curtains or pack an eye mask to wear to bed.

Most tours are available in the summertime. You'll be able to see many locations during the long days, including mountains, glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls. These will provide you with excellent color contrasts.

The best weather in Iceland occurs in the summer, however, it can still be unpredictable. Summers are not as wet as spring, but it does rain occasionally. The wind chill can make summer days and nights cool, as Iceland is very windy. If you're lucky, you'll get to experience warm days during the summer in Iceland.

Plenty of festivals occur in Iceland during the summer, and many people choose to travel around the country and camp. Summer festivals include the Lobster Festival, Irish Days, the Eistnaflug Festival, and many smaller events.

• Check out the Top 20 Festivals in Iceland

Towards the end of June or the beginning of July, some Highland roads are opened after being closed for the winter.

This is the only time of year you can access the famous areas of Landmannalaugar and the Thorsmork valley. If you dream of hiking in Iceland on the popular Laugavegur and Fimmvorduhals routes, July or early August is the best time to do so.

Information About Iceland Summer Weather by Month (And More)

• Iceland Weather in June

• Iceland Weather in July

• Iceland Weather in August

Fall Weather in Iceland

In Iceland, autumn starts in late August and stays until late October or early November. Autumn is a great time to visit Iceland as it's still relatively warm in late August, though as each day passes, it gets colder.

Prices for accommodations go down in September and October, and you'll be able to see Iceland's gorgeous fall colors. Maybe you'll experience the first snowfall of the year or catch the northern lights.

The only downfall is that it may be windy, wet, and possibly quite cold.

Autumn is similar to springtime, between 32-50 F (0 to 10 C), though autumn feels windier. Maybe this is because of all the leaves falling from the trees and blowing in the wind. There will still be days like the one seen in the picture above, taken at Thingvellir National Park.

When there is a fresh layer of snow mixed in with the autumn colors of the moss and the lava, you'll see some incredible color combinations, such as the picture of Hraunfossar below.

• Learn more about Iceland in Fall - The Ultimate Travel Guide

Autumn is when the birds start flying south, and some experiences, such as river rafting tours or Highland excursions, close for the season.

This is also when you'll be able to go mushroom or berry picking in the countryside. You can find wild blueberries, crowberries, and strawberries in Iceland. Redcurrants are also available, though they are mainly planted and found in people's gardens. Always keep your eyes on the night skies during this time, as you can start spotting the northern lights!

Information About Iceland Fall Weather by Month (And More)

• Iceland Weather in September

• Iceland Weather in October

• Iceland Weather in November

Winter Weather in Iceland

When is winter in Iceland? Winter in Iceland is the longest season and generally lasts from November until March. These are the darkest months of the year, with little sunlight. You may then be wondering, is Iceland worth visiting in winter? The simple answer is yes! 

The year's shortest day happens just before the Christmas holidays, on December 21st. On that day, there are only 4-5 hours of daylight.

Fortunately, Christmas in Iceland is filled with twinkling fairy lights in every garden and on every street, so it is a thoroughly cozy and lovely place to be.

Winter is a great time to cuddle up indoors over a nice cup of hot chocolate or bathe in one of Iceland's many hot tubs, hot pools, or hot springs. Don't let the low Iceland winter temperatures put you off from a good experience. 

You can enjoy some hot springs all year round, but they feel especially nice when snow blankets the surrounding landscape.

Winter in Iceland is famous for the northern lights and the natural ice caves, some of the best winter tours available.

In the summer, great rivers of flowing meltwater unravel from the ice caves underneath Vatnajokull, Europe's largest glacier.

You can't visit the ice caves when they're full of flowing water, but when the temperature drops and the water turns into ice, the country is left with spectacular blue caves to explore.

Photo from Best Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull Glacier Starting from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

You can see the Icelandic glaciers all year round, and they can be breathtaking in contrast to the summer colors. But it is in the winter that they become truly spectacular.

Contrary to many people's beliefs, snow is not always covering Iceland during winter. The snow appears, melts, and appears again, so you can still see the contrast of colors and get a sense of the glaciers' incredible size.

Winter is Iceland's most unpredictable season when it comes to the weather.

How cold Is Iceland? Winter is the coldest season, but it may not be as cold as you imagine. If you are somewhere in the south, such as Reykjavik, the average temperature is around 32 F (0 C). It can go down to 23 F (-5 C) or up to 41 F (5 C) but usually doesn't get much colder or warmer than that, though you should always consider the wind chill.

If you're wondering when it snows in Iceland, then winter will be the logical answer. Anywhere from October to April can experience snowfall, with the heaviest being received between late December and February.

• See also: Top 11 Frozen Waterfalls in Iceland to See in Winter

The Highlands are closed during wintertime, but you can take adventurous glacier hiking tours. Tours depend on weather and visibility, so be aware that they can be canceled with just a few hours notice. When an operator cancels a tour, they will offer you another tour in return or a full refund.

These precautions mean you won't find yourself on top of a glacier in a crazy snowstorm. The best advice we can give you is to bring many warm layers, preferably made of wool or fleece. That way, you can always add a layer or take a layer off to make sure you are comfortable.

Information About Iceland Winter Weather by Month (And More)

• Iceland Weather in December

• Iceland Weather in January

• Iceland Weather in February

The Average Temperature in Iceland by Month

Although the temperature in Iceland is milder than you might expect, it's still pretty cold!

Depending on where you are from, you may find it warmer or colder than you expected (this also depends on your luck, the time of year you visit, and how warmly you dress).

What is the average temperature in Iceland? Of course, it varies from month to month. We've shared the overview below for a glance at Iceland's average temperatures. Make sure to note these numbers can be higher or lower depending on many factors. 

If we look at the average temperature in Iceland across an entire year, the number only reaches 41 F (5 C). Thank goodness for some warm summer days to boost those numbers!

The Northern Lights in Iceland

You can best see the northern lights in Iceland between September and March. It's impossible to see the northern lights at the height of summer (June-July) because of Iceland's midnight sun when the night sky stays bright.

By August, nights start to get darker, and you can occasionally spot the northern lights. The "season" for the best aurora hunting is from September to March, when the nights are dark for a substantial amount of time.

From time to time, the northern lights are particularly active. For example, in 2013, there was a solar maximum, and spectacular displays were seen.

The Icelandic Meteorological Office has a very reliable northern light forecast for Iceland on its website. This report shows you their predictions for where and how strong the aurora activity will be at a given time and area. The white parts of the forecast signify clear skies, which is the best time to see the northern lights.

The forecast is not a 100% guarantee. Some nights, when the activity is high (such as a 7 out of 9), you may not see anything. At other times, when the activity should be low (1 or 2 on the scale), you can see some fantastic aurora performances. However, it's a good guideline!

No matter what time of year you make your trip to Iceland, you're bound to have a unique experience exploring this wonderful country. Have you been to Iceland before? What time of year do you think is the best time to visit? Let us know in the comments below!