Reykjavík

Reykjavík Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Reykjavík.

Climate overview of Reykjavík

Reykjavik experiences a cool maritime climate with relatively mild winters and fairly cool summers. During winter the temperature is around freezing during the day and at night it freezes lightly. Under influence of the warm ocean water it can also stay above freezing during some days in winter. Sometimes the temperature can drop during the night to freezing temperature of around -20°C (-4°F) or even lower.

On an annual basis Reykjavik has around 1300 hours of sun, 800 mm (31 in) of precipitation and 150 precipitation days.

Reykjavík Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Reykjavík — and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Reykjavík

The climate in Reykjavík is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. On average, daytime temperatures range from a moderate 16°C (61°F) in July to a chilly 3°C (37°F) in February.

Nighttime temperatures range from 9°C (48°F) in July to -3°C (27°F) in February.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Reykjavík

Reykjavík has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 1436 mm (57 in) of rain/snowfall per year. The amount of precipitation varies moderately throughout the year. The wettest month, February, sees around 148 mm (5.8 in) of snow/rainfall, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of snow/rain now and then. The driest month, June, still receives a respectable 87 mm (3.4 in) of rainfall. For more details, please visit our Reykjavík Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Reykjavík

In Reykjavík, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 6.7 hours in May. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. January sees a soft sun for only 0.7 hours per average day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

Water Temperature in Reykjavík

The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 6°C (43°F) in January to 11°C (52°F) in July.

Water temperature over the year

Humidity in Reykjavík by Month

Wind Speed in Reykjavík

Best Time to Visit Reykjavík

The climate in Reykjavík shows seasonal variation throughout the year, creating different weather experiences for visitors. If we needed to point out one great month to visit, it would be June, the driest month with 87 mm (3.4 in) of rainfall.

Seeking the perfect travel destination for this year? We've created a tool that suggests locations matching your desired weather. Let our weather planner guide your travel decisions.

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Reykjavík

What is the best time to visit Reykjavík?

June and July typically offer the most optimal weather in Reykjavík. In contrast, January, February, March, April, September, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions.

What temperatures can I expect in Reykjavík?

Daytime highs range from 3°C (37°F) in February to 16°C (61°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -3°C (27°F) to 9°C (48°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Reykjavík get?

Annual rainfall is around 1436 mm (57 in). February is the wettest month with 148 mm (5.8 in), while June is the driest with 87 mm (3.4 in). In the coldest months, precipitation may fall as snow/rain.

How sunny is Reykjavík?

Reykjavík receives around 1,327 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 201 hours, while January is the cloudiest with just 20 hours.

Reykjavík 3-Day Forecast

Reykjavík 3-Day Forecast

Reykjavík on the map

Reykjavík is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.

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