Reykjavik Climate & Weather Averages

Climate Insights from Our Writers

“Planning around Reykjavik's daylight is more important than temperature, and this is a lesson I've learned through careful study of the city's unique climate patterns. I was there in June and the midnight sun meant I could hike at 11pm — disorienting but incredible. The data shows that Reykjavik receives over 21 hours of daylight in June, while December offers barely 4 hours. This extreme variation in photoperiod is the single most important factor shaping life in Iceland's capital. What fascinates me about Reykjavik's climate is how mild it is for its latitude — the city sits at 64°N, well within the Arctic Circle's influence, yet January averages only -1°C. This is thanks to the North Atlantic Current, an extension of the Gulf Stream that brings warm water from the Caribbean to Iceland's shores. The temperature rarely drops below -5°C, which is remarkable for a city so far north. I've tracked the wind data and found that Reykjavik is one of the windiest cities I've studied, with average wind speeds of 20 km/h and frequent gusts that make the felt temperature significantly colder than the thermometer reading. The city's position on the boundary between the polar and temperate climate zones creates a weather system that's famously unpredictable — locals have a saying that if you don't like the weather, just wait five minutes. The rainfall is moderate but persistent, with October averaging over 80mm spread across many days of light precipitation. What I've come to appreciate about Reykjavik's climate is how it has shaped a culture of indoor coziness that Icelanders call 'kos,' a concept similar to the Danish 'hygge' but with its own distinct character. For travelers, the summer months of June through August offer the best conditions for exploring the dramatic landscapes surrounding the city, while winter visits reward those who embrace the darkness with the chance to see the Northern Lights and experience one of the world's most unique cultural environments.”

— Climate & Travel Writer