Iceland Weather Guide: Month-by-Month Travel Tips and What to Wear

January in Iceland

Weather:

January is one of the coldest months in Iceland. Expect short daylight hours (around 4–5 hours), heavy snowfall, and icy roads.

Temperature: -1°C to 3°C (30°F to 37°F)

Winds: Strong coastal winds are frequent, especially in open areas.

Precipitation: High chances of snow, sleet, and occasional rain in coastal areas.

What to Wear:

•             Thermal base layers

•             Insulated winter jackets

•             Wool sweaters

•             Waterproof boots

•             Windproof gloves, hats, and scarves

•             Crampons for icy walking surfaces

Tip: Perfect month for Northern Lights tours in Iceland and ice cave adventures.

February in Iceland

Weather:

Similar to January but slightly more daylight (6–7 hours). Weather remains cold and snowy.

Temperature: -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F)

Winds: Persistent and sharp coastal winds.

Precipitation: Frequent snow showers and occasional rain.

What to Wear:

•             Thermal leggings and tops

•             Down jackets

•             Snow boots

•             Wool hats and gloves

•             Waterproof outerwear

Tip: Visit Iceland in February if you want to experience quieter tourist spots and magical snowy landscapes.

March in Iceland

Weather:

March is a transitional month with increasing daylight (10 hours). Snow still falls but begins to melt in southern parts.

Temperature: -2°C to 4°C (28°F to 39°F)

Winds: Can be very windy, especially in open fields.

Precipitation: Snowfall with occasional rain.

What to Wear:

•             Warm base layers

•             Insulated and waterproof jackets

•             Hats, gloves, scarves

•             Waterproof hiking boots

Tip: March in Iceland offers a chance to catch the Northern Lights and enjoy winter activities before the thaw.

April in Iceland

Weather:

Spring slowly arrives, but snow is still possible, especially inland. Daylight extends up to 13–16 hours.

Temperature: 0°C to 7°C (32°F to 45°F)

Winds: Moderate to strong winds.

Precipitation: Light snow and rain showers.

What to Wear:

•             Light thermal wear

•             Waterproof rain jackets

•             Layers you can remove easily

•             Warm socks and waterproof shoes

Tip: Ideal for Golden Circle tours and South Coast sightseeing before summer crowds.

May in Iceland

Weather:

May is the beginning of “milder” weather in Iceland. Snow rarely falls, especially in southern areas.

Temperature: 4°C to 10°C (39°F to 50°F)

Winds: Mild to moderate breezes.

Precipitation: Rain is more common than snow.

What to Wear:

•             Light waterproof jackets

•             Fleece layers

•             Comfortable walking shoes

•             Sunglasses (for longer daylight)

Tip: May in Iceland is a beautiful time for wildlife tours and exploring Reykjavik with fewer crowds.

June in Iceland

Weather:

June marks the beginning of summer with the famous Midnight Sun phenomenon.

Temperature: 8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F)

Winds: Generally lighter, but still variable.

Precipitation: Occasional rain showers.

What to Wear:

•             Light layers

•             Waterproof windbreaker

•             Good hiking boots

•             Sunglasses and sunscreen

Tip: Visit Iceland in June to experience 24-hour daylight and lush green landscapes — perfect for road trips and hiking.

July in Iceland

Weather:

July is Iceland’s warmest month, but don’t expect tropical heat!

Temperature: 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F)

Winds: Gentle to moderate breezes.

Precipitation: Rain is common; sudden showers are possible.

What to Wear:

•             Light thermal tops

•             Waterproof jackets

•             Comfortable hiking shoes

•             Swimsuit (for lagoons and hot springs)

Tip: July is the peak season for exploring Icelandic waterfalls, whale watching tours, and hiking Landmannalaugar.

August in Iceland

Weather:

August continues to be pleasantly mild but with increasing rainfall towards the end of the month.

Temperature: 8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F)

Winds: Generally mild but can pick up inland.

Precipitation: Frequent rain showers.

What to Wear:

•             Waterproof outer layers

•             Light sweaters

•             Breathable hiking pants

•             Waterproof boots

Tip: August in Iceland is perfect for camping adventures and exploring the Highlands.

September in Iceland

Weather:

September is a transitional month—autumn colors begin to paint the landscape.

Temperature: 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F)

Winds: Can be brisk, especially on the coasts.

Precipitation: Frequent rain; first signs of snow in northern regions.

What to Wear:

•             Waterproof and windproof jackets

•             Warm sweaters

•             Waterproof boots

•             Beanies and gloves

Tip: Early Northern Lights hunting in Iceland begins again in September!

October in Iceland

Weather:

Colder days and longer nights arrive; first snowfalls are common inland.

Temperature: 1°C to 7°C (34°F to 45°F)

Winds: Strong and cold.

Precipitation: Heavy rain and first snowfalls.

What to Wear:

•             Insulated jackets

•             Waterproof layers

•             Woolen hats and gloves

•             Thermal undergarments

Tip: October in Iceland offers a dramatic landscape perfect for photography tours.

November in Iceland

Weather:

November feels like early winter — cold temperatures, snow-covered ground, and only 5–6 hours of daylight.

Temperature: -2°C to 3°C (28°F to 37°F)

Winds: Strong and biting.

Precipitation: Frequent snow and rain showers.

What to Wear:

•             Full winter gear

•             Snow boots

•             Waterproof gloves

•             Thick scarves

Tip: An ideal month for Northern Lights photography and cozying up in Icelandic geothermal pools.

December in Iceland

Weather:

December brings full winter charm: long nights, twinkling Christmas lights, and deep snow.

Temperature: -3°C to 2°C (26°F to 36°F)

Winds: Strong coastal winds are frequent.

Precipitation: Heavy snow and rain, depending on the region.

What to Wear:

•             Heavy down jackets

•             Layered thermals

•             Insulated snow boots

•             Wool socks, gloves, beanies

Tip: December in Iceland is magical with Christmas celebrations, Northern Lights, and ice cave explorations.

Final Iceland Travel Tips:

•             Always dress in layers — Iceland’s weather changes rapidly.

•             Waterproof clothing is essential all year round.

•             Wool and thermal materials are your best friends.

•             Strong, waterproof footwear is crucial for outdoor adventures.

•             Check the Icelandic Met Office website for real-time Iceland weather updates.

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