Reykjavik weather in January
“A quiet, cold month. Beautiful for those who prefer it that way.”
Roughly 18 rainy days across the month, on average.
January is Reykjavik's coldest and darkest month. Temperatures hover between -3°C (27°F) and 2°C (35°F), with frequent rain and snow. You'll experience only 1.5 hours of sunshine daily, with the sun barely rising above the horizon. Expect around 18 rainy days and 152mm of precipitation, so waterproof gear is essential. Despite the harsh conditions, the low light offers excellent chances to see the Northern Lights on clear nights.
January is peak season for aurora hunting and winter activities. Reykjavik's New Year celebrations linger into early January, and locals embrace the cozy café culture. Tourist crowds are moderate compared to summer, making it feel intimate without being crowded. The city's geothermal hot springs provide warm refuge from the cold.
This month suits adventurous travelers who don't mind extreme weather. Book accommodations and tours well in advance for 2026, as aurora-chasing trips fill quickly. Pack serious winter gear and realistic expectations about daylight. If you're sensitive to darkness or cold, consider visiting later in spring instead.
What to pack for Reykjavik in January
January demands serious cold-weather protection. Layer everything and invest in waterproof, insulated items that can handle wind, rain, and potential snow. Thermal base layers are your foundation; add a heavy wool sweater and a quality insulated jacket on top. Waterproof outerwear and sturdy boots are non-negotiable.
- Insulated winter parka (down-filled, waterproof)
- Thermal base layer leggings and long-sleeve shirt
- Merino wool sweater
- Insulated waterproof hiking boots
- Wool beanie, gloves, and thick scarf
What to pack for Reykjavik in January
- →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
Northern Lights hunting, geothermal hot spring bathing (Blue Lagoon), glacier hiking on Vatnajökull, ice cave exploration, whale watching tours.
Other places with a similar climate right now
Reykjavik in January — FAQ
Q01Is January a good time to visit Reykjavik?
Is January a good time to visit Reykjavik?
It is a challenging month — you may want to consider another time of year. In January, Reykjavik averages a high of 2°C (35°F) and a low of -3°C (27°F), with 152mm of rainfall across roughly 18 rainy days.
Q02What is the average temperature in Reykjavik in January?
What is the average temperature in Reykjavik in January?
The average high temperature in Reykjavik during January 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 January?
How many rainy days does Reykjavik have in January?
Reykjavik averages approximately 18 rainy days in January, with a total monthly rainfall of about 152mm. 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 January?
What should I pack for Reykjavik in January?
For Reykjavik in January, 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 January?
How crowded is Reykjavik in January?
Tourist crowds in Reykjavik during January are typically low — winter is off-season, meaning quiet streets and better hotel deals. Consider this when planning accommodation — prices track crowd levels closely.