Reykjavik weather in December
“A quiet, cold month. Beautiful for those who prefer it that way.”
Roughly 18 rainy days across the month, on average.
December in Reykjavik is dark, cold, and wet. Temperatures hover between -2.6°C (27°F) and 1.6°C (35°F), with frequent rain—expect about 135mm across 17-18 rainy days. Sunshine is scarce at just 0.7 hours per day, so you'll experience nearly constant twilight. The city rarely sees snow, though frost is common, creating slippery conditions underfoot.
This is peak season for the Northern Lights, drawing aurora hunters worldwide. Christmas markets and festive decorations transform Reykjavik into a winter wonderland, while locals embrace the cozy hygge culture. Crowds are moderate to high around the holidays, and accommodation prices spike accordingly. Despite the darkness, December offers a magical, atmospheric experience that summer visitors miss entirely.
If you're visiting Reykjavik in December 2026, come prepared for darkness and dampness rather than extreme cold. Waterproof gear is non-negotiable, and thermal layers are essential. This month rewards patient travelers with Northern Lights opportunities and authentic Icelandic winter ambiance—just manage expectations about daylight and budget for premium winter prices.
What to pack for Reykjavik in December
December requires serious waterproofing and insulation. Layer heavily with merino wool base layers, add a thick fleece mid-layer, and top with a waterproof shell jacket. Thermal insulated boots with grip soles are crucial for icy streets. Don't forget a windproof beanie, insulated gloves, and a wool scarf—wind chill makes it feel much colder than the thermometer suggests.
- Merino wool thermal base layers
- Waterproof insulated winter parka
- Thermal insulated hiking boots
- Windproof knit beanie
- Wool-lined waterproof gloves
What to pack for Reykjavik in December
- →Merino wool base layerAmazon · shop this
- →Insulated puffer jacketAmazon · shop this
- →Thermal glovesAmazon · shop this
- →Packable rain jacketAmazon · shop this
- →Compact travel umbrellaAmazon · shop this
- →Waterproof dry bagAmazon · shop this
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Where to stay in Reykjavik
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Compare hotels on Booking.com→Things worth doing
Chase Northern Lights on dark nights, explore Christmas markets in the city center, relax in geothermal hot springs like Blue Lagoon, visit ice caves and glaciers on day tours.
Other places with a similar climate right now
Reykjavik in December — FAQ
Q01Is December a good time to visit Reykjavik?
Is December a good time to visit Reykjavik?
It is a challenging month — you may want to consider another time of year. In December, Reykjavik averages a high of 2°C (35°F) and a low of -3°C (27°F), with 135mm of rainfall across roughly 18 rainy days.
Q02What is the average temperature in Reykjavik in December?
What is the average temperature in Reykjavik in December?
The average high temperature in Reykjavik during December is 2°C (35°F), with an average low of -3°C (27°F). These figures are averaged from ten years of daily records (2015–2024, Open-Meteo Archive).
Q03How many rainy days does Reykjavik have in December?
How many rainy days does Reykjavik have in December?
Reykjavik averages approximately 18 rainy days in December, with a total monthly rainfall of about 135mm. This is based on daily precipitation records where days with 1mm or more of rain are counted as rainy days.
Q04What should I pack for Reykjavik in December?
What should I pack for Reykjavik in December?
For Reykjavik in December, pack a warm winter coat, a merino base layer for evenings, a compact umbrella or waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes. These recommendations are based on the ten-year weather averages for this specific month.
Q05How crowded is Reykjavik in December?
How crowded is Reykjavik in December?
Tourist crowds in Reykjavik during December are typically low — winter is off-season, meaning quiet streets and better hotel deals. Consider this when planning accommodation — prices track crowd levels closely.