What the Icelandic Weather Is Really Like Month by Month

January in Iceland: Cold and Quiet

• Temperature: around 20–32°F (-6 to 0°C)
• Daylight: very limited, especially in the north
• Conditions: snow, wind, occasional clear skies
  January is deep winter. Roads may be icy. Dress warmly and expect short days — but also the possibility of northern lights.

February in Iceland: Still Winter, More Light

• Temperature: 22–35°F (-5 to 2°C)
• Daylight: increasing each day
• Conditions: snow, ice, windy days
  February still feels like winter, but each day gets longer. Roads can improve, and clear nights bring good aurora chances.

March in Iceland: Transition Weather

• Temperature: 25–40°F (-4 to 4°C)
• Daylight: noticeable increase
• Conditions: mix of snow, rain, and clear periods
  March is mixed weather — winter one day, spring-like the next. It’s a great time for northern lights and early spring vibes.

April in Iceland: Spring on the Way

• Temperature: 30–45°F (-1 to 7°C)
• Daylight: long days
• Conditions: rain, occasional snow, muddy trails
  April sees more open roads and milder conditions. Snow becomes less consistent, especially in the south.

May in Iceland: Milder and Greener

• Temperature: 40–55°F (4 to 13°C)
• Daylight: very long days
• Conditions: cool mornings, warmer afternoons
  May feels springlike. Flowers bloom, lambs are in fields, and outdoor plans start to look more reliable.

June in Iceland: Midnight Sun Begins

• Temperature: 45–60°F (7 to 16°C)
• Daylight: almost 24 hours
• Conditions: cool breeze, long days
  June is one of the most pleasant months. Sunsets blend into sunrises, and rain showers are usually short-lived.

July in Iceland: Warmest Month

• Temperature: 50–65°F (10 to 18°C)
• Daylight: nearly constant
• Conditions: mild, occasional rain
  July is peak summer. It’s the warmest month, but weather can still change quickly — bring layers and rain gear.

August in Iceland: Summer Continues

• Temperature: 48–63°F (9 to 17°C)
• Daylight: long, shortening progressively
• Conditions: mild with showers
  August feels much like July, but with gradually shorter days and a hint of autumn in the evenings.

September in Iceland: Autumn Begins

• Temperature: 42–57°F (6 to 14°C)
• Daylight: noticeably shorter
• Conditions: crisp air, rain more common
  September can be magical — colorful landscapes and fewer crowds. Weather is more changeable, so layers matter.

October in Iceland: Cooler and Wetter

• Temperature: 35–50°F (2 to 10°C)
• Daylight: shorter, especially later in the month
• Conditions: wind, rain, first snows in higher areas
  October feels like fall. Bring warm layers and waterproof gear — conditions can shift fast.

November in Iceland: Winter Weather Returns

• Temperature: 28–42°F (-2 to 6°C)
• Daylight: much shorter days
• Conditions: mix of rain, snow, wind
  November is transitional toward winter. Snow becomes more common, especially inland and north.

December in Iceland: Winter Begins

• Temperature: 20–35°F (-6 to 1°C)
• Daylight: very limited
• Conditions: snow, wind, dark skies
  December is winter in full swing. Days are short, and weather can be challenging — but northern lights and snowy landscapes are highlights.

Quick Weather Tips for Iceland

Why does weather change so fast?
Strong winds and Iceland’s ocean-influenced climate mean conditions can shift hour to hour.

What should I pack?
Layers:

• waterproof jacket and pants
• warm base layers
• sturdy boots
• hat, gloves, scarf

Is rain guaranteed?
Not on every day — but rain showers are common year-round.

Can I see the northern lights?
Yes — best from late August to April on clear nights.

In Short

Iceland’s weather is dynamic — sometimes mild, sometimes wild — and always part of the experience.

Month-by-month patterns help you plan better, but preparedness is the real key: layers, flexibility, and respect for nature’s rhythm.

What is Iceland weather like month by month?
Iceland’s weather changes with the seasons — winter (cold, snow, short days), spring (mix of rain and clear skies), summer (cool, long days), and fall (crisp, rainier).

When is the warmest weather in Iceland?
Typically July is the warmest month.

Which months have the shortest days in Iceland?
December and January have the shortest daylight hours.

Can you see northern lights in Iceland any month?
You can most reliably see them late August through April.