The climate of Iceland
The current climate in Iceland features temperatures ranging from a high of 12°C to a low of -2°C throughout the year. The average yearly temperature is around 5°C. At night, temperatures in the colder months average around -8°C and in the warmer months around 5°C.
Average temperatures and precipitation
This chart shows the average monthly maximum and minimum temperatures (in degrees Celsius) and average monthly rainfall (in millimeters) for Iceland.
Temperature records
The highest temperature recorded in Iceland in recent years was 23°C in July 2019. The lowest daytime temperature recorded was -17°C in March 2023.
Precipitation and snowfall
On average, Iceland gets 1265 mm of precipitation each year. Of this, about 203 cm is snowfall. For comparison, New York gets 1142 mm of precipitation each year.
The climate in Iceland is based on weather data from Reykjavík. Other places, like VíkHúsavík, might have different weather. You can check out all destinations in Iceland to get the full picture of the climate.
Best time to visit Iceland?
If you're after warm and sunny weather, there aren’t really any specific months that are best to visit Iceland. The temperatures are too low throughout the year, or there’s just too much precipitation.
Climate Table of Iceland
The climate table of Iceland shows the average temperatures, rainfall, snow, and UV index per month. The table provides an overview of the average day and night temperatures in degrees Celsius, the total amount of rainfall in millimeters, the total snowfall in centimeters, and the UV index for each month. Rainfall is always measured as water, even if it's snow or hail.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp. max (°C) | -1 | 3 | -1 | 4 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 4 | 1 | -2 |
| Temp. min (°C) | -7 | -2 | -7 | -1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 4 | 5 | -1 | -4 | -7 |
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| Precipitation (mm) | 125 | 117 | 150 | 96 | 90 | 91 | 69 | 89 | 117 | 117 | 104 | 100 |
| Snow (cm) | 35 | 39 | 27 | 13 | 7,5 | 3,2 | 1,3 | 2,5 | 5,9 | 17 | 22 | 30 |
| UV Index | 0 | 1 | 3 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Click on the month name to see more weather details, like daily averages, temperatures, and precipitation for the past years in that month.
Popular destinations in Iceland
Discover the climate of these popular destinations in Iceland.
Temperature charts
These charts display the average temperatures in Iceland. The temperatures are shown in degrees Celsius and are calculated based on data from the past 10 years.
Average Temperature per Month in Iceland
Yearly Temperature in Iceland
Precipitation charts
These charts show the average amount of precipitation in Iceland. Precipitation is always measured as water, even when it falls as snow or hail. The amount of precipitation is displayed in millimeters, while snowfall is shown in centimeters.
Average Precipitation per Month in Iceland
Total Yearly Precipitation in Iceland
Average Snowfall per Month in Iceland
Total Yearly Snowfall in Iceland
UV index chart
This chart shows the average UV index per month in Iceland. The UV index indicates the intensity of ultraviolet radiation and ranges from 0 to a maximum of 11.
Average UV Index per Month in Iceland
Weather experiences in Iceland
The weather in Iceland is rated an average of 3,4 out of 5 stars by 10 visitors. Have you been to Iceland? Share your weather experience to help other visitors.
Jesse Knegt
A few moments of bright sunshine were interspersed with cool, rainy periods. Temperatures were around 10 degrees Celsius, ideal for hiking or biking.
Zeger van AaltenThe nearly 24 hours of daylight were fantastic, but the temperatures were not for everyone. There is strong wind and rain. Be sure to wear proper clothing.
Rein van der FlierIt was cold but bearable, the temperature was around freezing. A clear blue sky interrupted by unexpected snowfall made my trip truly adventurous. Multiple layers of clothing were mandatory.
Fleur HuisCold, snow and ice were the rule, long dark days. In the northern part it can be very cold, with temperatures dropping to -5 degrees Celsius. But the natural beauty of the winter landscape makes up for a lot.
Yente EskesBe prepared for short days and icy nights. Although beautiful, it is not recommended for people who cannot stand very cold weather.
MaartenThere were many sunny days with pleasant temperatures. It rained occasionally, but not too much. Nice change of weather!
IsaThe occasional rain showers were part of it and gave our party character and created beautiful rainbows.
WilcoFebruary in Iceland is cold with sub-zero temperatures. There was a lot of snow and wind, which made travel difficult at times. But the chance to see the northern lights made it all worthwhile. Be prepared for unpredictable weather.
ThijmenAlthough the bitter cold and regular snowfall were challenging, the beautiful northern lights were breathtaking. Recommended for adventurous souls rather than those seeking comfort.
NicoAlthough there were several hours of sunshine, it alternated with rain and wind. The temperature was cool. Beautiful scenery regardless of the weather.
Have you been to Iceland?
Share your weather experiences in Iceland.
Average weather in Iceland by month
Click on a month below to see detailed weather info for Iceland. Based on historical weather data, you can see the average temperature, precipitation, wind, and UV index for each day of the month.