Month-by-Month Guide
Best Time to Visit Reykjavik
Iceland · Updated for 2026
Quick Answer
June - August (midnight sun, warmest)
December - February (extreme cold, very little daylight)
September offers the Northern Lights season beginning plus manageable temperatures.
15-20 degrees C (59-68 F) summer; -10 to -5 degrees C (14-23 F) winter
Reykjavik Month by Month
Weather, crowds, prices, and events for every month of the year.
January
$$Deep winter in Reykjavik with very short days and potential Northern Lights. The city glows under snow and ice. Thermal layers are non-negotiable.
Events: New Year bonfire celebrations, Northern Lights
February
$$Still cold in Reykjavik but days lengthen perceptibly. Northern Lights remain spectacular. Winter activities - dog sledding, snowshoeing - are at their best.
Events: Winter lights festival, Northern Lights peak
March
$$$Daylight returns rapidly to Reykjavik and the snowy landscape sparkles. Easter skiing draws visitors. Both aurora and mountain activities can be combined.
Events: Food and Fun restaurant festival, aurora
April
$$Spring thaw begins in Reykjavik with slushy streets and rapidly growing days. A transitional month for adventurers who want quiet and lower prices.
Events: Ski season ends, spring preview
May
$$Spring arrives properly in Reykjavik with green shoots and migratory birds. The midnight sun edges closer. A fresh and energetic time to explore.
Events: First of Summer festival, spring events
June
$$$Midnight sun season in Reykjavik. Surreal 24-hour daylight lets you hike, fish, and explore around the clock. One of the most extraordinary experiences in travel.
Events: Midnight sun begins, music festivals
July
$$$$Peak season in Reykjavik. The warmest month with long bright days. Hiking, fishing, whale watching, and midnight sun photography draw visitors from around the world.
Events: Reykjavik Arts Festival, midnight sun
August
$$$Still excellent summer weather in Reykjavik with the first Northern Lights of the season appearing toward month-end. Combine outdoor adventures and aurora watching.
Events: Iceland Airwaves music festival, midnight sun
September
$$$Northern Lights season begins in earnest in Reykjavik. Autumn colours are stunning. A magical combination of dramatic scenery and celestial light shows.
Events: Aurora season returns, Reykjavik Marathon
October
$$$Northern Lights peak season in Reykjavik. Cold but manageable with the right clothing. Long dark nights maximise aurora viewing opportunities.
Events: Aurora Borealis season peak, cultural events
November
$$Dark and cold descends on Reykjavik but Northern Lights can be spectacular. A quiet and atmospheric month for those who embrace the Nordic winter.
Events: Iceland Airwaves music festival
December
$$$The darkest month in Reykjavik but Christmas magic transforms the city. Northern Lights above snowy streets are unforgettable. Festive warmth in every pub and cafe.
Events: Northern Lights, NYE bonfire celebrations
Insider Tips for Reykjavik
- 1Northern Lights viewing requires clear, dark skies — September to March is the best window.
- 2Dress in thermal layers for winter visits; temperatures can drop to -20 degrees C.
- 3The midnight sun in June-July means you will need an eye mask or blackout curtains to sleep.
- 4Renting a car in summer opens up spectacular fjord, glacier, and mountain routes.
- 5Book Northern Lights tours and summer adventure activities well in advance — they fill up fast.
Where to Stay in Reykjavik
City-centre hotels suit summer visits. For Northern Lights, a rural cabin or lodge away from light pollution provides the best aurora experience.
Browse Reykjavik hotel guides