Year-round weather and climate in Reykjavík, Iceland
Average temperatures in Reykjavík run from an average low of -3°C27°F in December up to an average high of 13°C55°F in August. July is the driest month at 14 rainy days; May the wettest at 20. Here is the annual climate data, so you know what you are packing for.
Good to know
- Population
- 119K
- Currency
- ISK
- Language
- Icelandic
- Time zone
- Reykjavik
Best time to visit
For the warmest temperatures and best chance of outdoor activities, plan your trip around June, July, and August.
Rain character
Tropical Downpours: Expect intense bursts of rain during wetter months. Pack quick-drying footwear and a compact umbrella.
Day-to-night swing
Thermal Flatline: Day-to-night temperatures barely budge. Evenings are just as warm as the afternoon, meaning you can confidently leave the evening jacket in your hotel.
Seasonality Profile
Subarctic & Alpine: Extreme cold defines the year. Brief, cool summers offer the only respite from freezing temperatures.
Evening vibe
Cozy Indoor Culture: Evenings are generally crisp, damp, or sweltering. Nightlife centers around indoor venues.
Sightseeing stamina
All-Day Strolling: Weather is generally forgiving for long walking days. Comfortable sneakers are your most important packing item.
Average temperatures, sunshine, and rainfall
Average monthly weather in Reykjavík, based on recent historical data. Essential insights on temperature swings, expected rainfall, and daily sunshine.
Bars span the average daily low to high. Jul is typically driest at 14 days (85mm); May the wettest at 20 days (136mm).
| Month | Average high | Average low | Sunshine hours | Rainy days | Total rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2°C / 35°F | -3°C / 27°F | 1h | 18 | 157mm |
| Feb | 2°C / 36°F | -2°C / 28°F | 3h | 17 | 145mm |
| Mar | 3°C / 37°F | -2°C / 29°F | 6h | 15 | 134mm |
| Apr | 6°C / 43°F | 1°C / 34°F | 7h | 15 | 130mm |
| May | 9°C / 47°F | 4°C / 39°F | 9h | 20 | 136mm |
| Jun | 11°C / 52°F | 7°C / 44°F | 8h | 17 | 110mm |
| Jul | 13°C / 55°F | 9°C / 47°F | 9h | 14 | 85mm |
| Aug | 13°C / 55°F | 9°C / 47°F | 8h | 16 | 128mm |
| Sep | 10°C / 50°F | 6°C / 42°F | 6h | 17 | 140mm |
| Oct | 6°C / 44°F | 2°C / 36°F | 5h | 16 | 134mm |
| Nov | 4°C / 40°F | 0°C / 32°F | 2h | 16 | 135mm |
| Dec | 1°C / 34°F | -3°C / 26°F | 1h | 16 | 131mm |
Weather data by Open-Meteo.com (opens in a new tab)
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the sunniest time of year to visit Reykjavík?
The most sunshine in Reykjavík comes around May, averaging 9 hours a month. If you're heading there then, pack your sunglasses and sunscreen.
What clothes should I pack for Reykjavík?
Your packing list depends entirely on when you travel. Temperatures in Reykjavík swing from an average low of -3°C27°F in December up to 13°C55°F in August. The Packola app builds a tailored packing list for you based on the live weather forecast for your exact travel dates.
Do I need to pack an umbrella for Reykjavík?
Reykjavík gets rain on about 197 days out of the year. The wettest month is May. If you're traveling during the rainy season, you'll definitely want to pack an umbrella and a light rain jacket.
Pack smarter.
Averages get you close, but the week you travel is what matters. Get the live forecast, a smart packing list, and discover the best local spots and activities in Reykjavík with Packola.
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