Reykjavik weather in November
“A quiet, cold month. Beautiful for those who prefer it that way.”
Roughly 16 rainy days across the month, on average.
November in Reykjavik is cold and wet, with average highs of 3.9°C (39°F) and lows of 0.2°C (32°F). Expect around 128.8mm of precipitation across 15.8 rainy days, so waterproof gear is essential. Sunshine is scarce at just 2.2 hours per day, as the city transitions into the dark season. The landscape takes on moody grey tones, and daylight shrinks rapidly as winter approaches.
This shoulder season offers a quieter experience than summer months, with fewer tourists and lower accommodation prices. November captures Iceland's dramatic autumn-to-winter shift, and locals embrace the cozy indoor culture. The Northern Lights season is beginning, though cloud cover makes sightings less reliable than December onwards. Reykjavik's cafés, museums, and thermal pools become popular gathering spots.
Travelers visiting Reykjavik in November 2026 should prepare for unpredictable weather and limited daylight. It's an excellent time for budget-conscious visitors seeking authentic local experiences and fewer crowds. Pack layers, waterproof outerwear, and embrace the hygge atmosphere that defines Icelandic winter culture.
What to pack for Reykjavik in November
November in Reykjavik demands layering and serious weatherproofing. Wind and rain are constant companions, so invest in quality insulated and waterproof pieces. Thermal base layers trap warmth, while a good rain jacket keeps you dry during frequent showers. Waterproof hiking boots handle wet streets and muddy terrain, and a warm beanie protects against wind and cold.
- Merino wool thermal base layers
- Waterproof insulated rain jacket
- Insulated winter boots with grip soles
- Fleece-lined beanie and neck gaiter
- Waterproof gloves or mittens
What to pack for Reykjavik in November
- →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 visits, Golden Circle day tour, Blue Lagoon soak, Reykjavik museum exploration, whale watching excursions.
Other places with a similar climate right now
Reykjavik in November — FAQ
Q01Is November a good time to visit Reykjavik?
Is November a good time to visit Reykjavik?
It is a challenging month — you may want to consider another time of year. In November, Reykjavik averages a high of 4°C (39°F) and a low of 0°C (32°F), with 129mm of rainfall across roughly 16 rainy days.
Q02What is the average temperature in Reykjavik in November?
What is the average temperature in Reykjavik in November?
The average high temperature in Reykjavik during November is 4°C (39°F), with an average low of 0°C (32°F). These figures are averaged from ten years of daily records (2015–2024, Open-Meteo Archive).
Q03How many rainy days does Reykjavik have in November?
How many rainy days does Reykjavik have in November?
Reykjavik averages approximately 16 rainy days in November, with a total monthly rainfall of about 129mm. 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 November?
What should I pack for Reykjavik in November?
For Reykjavik in November, 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 November?
How crowded is Reykjavik in November?
Tourist crowds in Reykjavik during November are typically moderate. Consider this when planning accommodation — prices track crowd levels closely.