Climate
What is the weather like in Iceland?
The climate in Iceland is milder than many people expect. Thanks to the Gulf Stream, Iceland enjoys temperate ocean climate with cool summers and relatively mild winters.
Because Iceland is an island in the North Atlantic, conditions can change quickly. It’s not uncommon to have overcast skies, rain, and bright sun all in the same day. Wind is a near-constant feature across much of the country, particularly on the south coast and in the Westfjords.
You can stay up to date with the latest weather forecasts at the Icelandic Met Office.
How cold is Iceland?
Average temperatures in Reykjavík range from around 1°C to 3°C in winter (December to February) and 10°C to 13°C in summer (June to August). The north and highlands are generally a few degrees colder. Wind chill can make temperatures feel significantly lower, particularly on exposed coastal routes.
What should I put on my Iceland packing list?
With the Icelandic weather being so changeable, it pays to be prepared for a range of conditions. Bring along lightweight woolens, a sweater or cardigan, a rainproof coat, and sturdy walking shoes.
If you’re traveling in wintertime or are heading into the interior, you’ll need thermal underwear and socks, rugged boots, and a warm sweater (fleece, wool).
- Thinking about a winter trip to Iceland? Find out what to bring with our packing guide.
Daylight hours
Can you see the midnight sun in Iceland?
Yes. Due to the country’s location directly below the Arctic Circle, daylight hours extend significantly across the country in summer. In the month of June, the sun never fully sets in the northern part of the country.
How much daylight does Iceland get in winter?
Days are shortest in Iceland in December, when there can be as little as 4 hours of daylight. After 21 December, the days rapidly start getting longer, adding a couple of hours every few weeks.
More darkness is good for one thing though: chasing the Northern Lights. Keep reading…
Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)
What causes the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights are caused by the interaction of particles from the sun with the upper atmosphere near the North Pole. That creates the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights.
- Learn all about this natural marvel in our Northern Lights guide.
When can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland?
The winter in Iceland brings the chance to see this natural phenomenon in the dark northern sky on a cold and clear night. There’s no particular winter month that’s better than another, you simply need these 3 things:
- Plenty of darkness
- Clear skies
- High levels of solar activity
These conditions can occur any time from October to April, but the longer the hours of darkness, the more time you have to see them.
- Ready to see the Northern Lights for yourself? Browse these winter vacation packages.
FAQs about Iceland's weather and climate
Iceland's weather is highly variable and often surprises visitors. Here are answers to the most common questions about what to expect.
Iceland has distinct seasons but is not as cold as many people expect. Reykjavík averages around 1-3°C in winter and 10-13°C in summer. The highlands and north Iceland are colder, and wind chill can make exposed locations feel significantly lower than the air temperature. Snow is common in winter but does not always settle in Reykjavík for long periods.
June through August offers the mildest temperatures and the longest daylight hours, with the midnight sun visible in the north from late May through late July. September and October bring autumn colours and the start of Northern Lights season. Winter from November through March has the most darkness, which is best for aurora viewing but comes with shorter daylight hours and more variable road conditions.
Iceland receives significant rainfall, particularly on the south coast and in Reykjavík. The south coast is the wettest region due to its exposure to Atlantic weather systems. The north and east tend to be drier. Rain can occur at any time of year and conditions can change within a single day, so a waterproof jacket is worth packing regardless of season.
Wind is one of the most consistent features of Iceland's climate, particularly in coastal and exposed areas. Strong winds are common on the south coast, around the Reykjanes peninsula, and in the Westfjords. Wind speeds can make driving more challenging and some mountain roads may close temporarily in severe conditions. The Icelandic Met Office at vedur.is publishes wind forecasts alongside temperature and cloud cover.
Yes. Due to Iceland's position close to the Arctic Circle, the sun does not fully set in the northern part of the country during June. In Reykjavík, nights remain very bright from late May through late July, with the sun setting briefly around midnight. A sleeping mask is worth packing if you are sensitive to light.
The Northern Lights are visible in Iceland from October through March, when nights are long and dark enough for sightings. December and January offer the longest periods of darkness. You need clear skies and sufficient solar activity alongside darkness, so checking the aurora forecast at vedur.is before heading out is recommended.
Layering is the standard approach regardless of season. A waterproof and windproof outer jacket, a warm mid-layer, and a moisture-wicking base layer covers most conditions. Sturdy waterproof boots are recommended for walking on Iceland's often wet and uneven terrain. In winter, add thermal base layers, insulated gloves, a hat, and a scarf. Even in summer, an extra warm layer is worth carrying for evenings and higher elevations.
