Iceland weather

July runs the highest averages in Iceland, with typical daytime highs of 10°C (50°F). July 15C is 'heatwave' for Icelanders; locals swim outdoor at Nautholsvik geothermal beach, and 24-hour daylight destroys sleep for tourists.

January brings the lowest averages, with daytime highs near -4°C (26°F). January -5C but 100kmh winds; Reykjavik heated sidewalks stay clear, but Ring Road eastfjords close weekly and Blue Lagoon runs 90% capacity.

September typically records the highest monthly rainfall — around 144mm on average. October-November brings horizontal sleet; rental car doors get ripped by wind, and Landmannalaugar road F208 closes for 8 months.

Iceland, Iceland has cool summers, freezing winters, moderate seasonal rainfall. Icelanders don't have last names, they use patronymics; the phone book is by first name. Hakarl fermented shark is a dare, not food; try plokkfiskur fish stew instead. Every town has a geothermal pool with hot pots at 40C, entry costs 5 euro and locals gossip in them. Elves are legally protected; roads reroute around known elf rocks. Don't tip, service is included. You can read the detailed month-by-month breakdown on this page.