The climate of Iceland has an average yearly temperature of 4°C. Throughout the year, the average monthly temperature can drop to -2°C and rise to 12°C.
Annually, about 1554 mm of rain falls. This gives a good overview of how much rain to expect in Iceland. Additionally, about 237 cm of snow falls each year.
This graph shows the average high temperatures in degrees Celsius for each month in Iceland
Rainfall by month in Iceland
This graph shows the average monthly rainfall in millimeters in Iceland.
Snowfall by month in Iceland
This graph shows the average snowfall in centimeters by month in Iceland.
UV index by month in Iceland
This graph shows the average UV index by month in Iceland.
Yearly temperature in Iceland
This graph shows the average yearly temperature in Iceland, measured in degrees Celsius.
Yearly total rainfall in Iceland
This graph shows the average yearly rainfall in millimeters in Iceland.
Yearly snowfall in Iceland
This graph shows the average yearly snowfall in Iceland, measured in centimeters.
Best time to visit Iceland
July and August, which are the hottest months in Iceland, have traditionally been the most preferred months for tourists to visit the country. And because there is continuous daylight in June, there are almost as many tourists as there are during the height of summer. However during this time of year, poor weather like heavy rain and strong winds may and does occur. Due to the unpredictable climate of the island, it is not uncommon for a single day to have elements of all four seasons.
Considering that Iceland's climate may maintain a comfortable temperature far into the first week of October, traveling there in September may be the best option. May also features more hours of daylight, making it ideal for outdoor excursions, and milder temperatures. However, this may not be the greatest time to visit if you are interested in visiting some of the more distant hills and fjords, since some roads are still blocked as they thaw from the snowy cover that they had over them over the winter.
The greatest time of year to go hiking in Iceland is during the summer, as this is the only season in which all of the mountain roads are passable and the majority of the country's most well-known paths are available.
When is the best time to see whales in Iceland?
The months of June and July are ideal for whale watching in Iceland. Northern Iceland has a longer season for seeing humpbacks, minkes, and dolphins, which cruise the Atlantic from May to August; some few humpbacks even stay until the end of the year. Blue whales also travel through in the summer.
Minke whales and dolphins can be seen near Reykjavik during the summer months, while orcas concentrate in West Iceland around the Snaefellsnes peninsula in the first part of the year.
When is the best time to visit the hot springs?
Hot water baths in Iceland are an important part of the Icelandic culture, providing both social and wellness advantages. The public pools in Reykjavik are available all year. Visit them in September or the first half of October, while they're still still reachable by mountain road but the tourist numbers have greatly decreased.
When visiting the Blue Lagoon, the world's most well-known geothermal spa, visitors will find less crowds by going in the off-seasons.
Weather experiences in Iceland
The weather in Iceland is rated an average of 3,4 out of 5 stars by 10 visitors.
A few moments of bright sunshine were interspersed with cool, rainy periods. Temperatures were around 10 degrees Celsius, ideal for hiking or biking.— This text has been automatically translated into English
The 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.— This text has been automatically translated into English
It 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.— This text has been automatically translated into English
Cold, 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.— This text has been automatically translated into English
Be prepared for short days and icy nights. Although beautiful, it is not recommended for people who cannot stand very cold weather.— This text has been automatically translated into English
There were many sunny days with pleasant temperatures. It rained occasionally, but not too much. Nice change of weather!— This text has been automatically translated into English
The occasional rain showers were part of it and gave our party character and created beautiful rainbows.— This text has been automatically translated into English
February 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.— This text has been automatically translated into English
Although the bitter cold and regular snowfall were challenging, the beautiful northern lights were breathtaking. Recommended for adventurous souls rather than those seeking comfort.— This text has been automatically translated into English
Although there were several hours of sunshine, it alternated with rain and wind. The temperature was cool. Beautiful scenery regardless of the weather.— This text has been automatically translated into English
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Average weather in Iceland by month
Click on a month below to see in detail how the weather typically is in Iceland and what to expect. Based on the historical weather data of Iceland, you can view the average temperature, rainfall, wind, and UV index for each day of the month.
