What is the Average Temperature in Reykjavík?

Reykjavík is the capital city of Iceland and has the warmest climate in the country. With a population of over 120,000 people, it is one of the largest cities in the Nordic countries. The city experiences all four seasons, with winters that can get cold and summers that are often pleasant. But, what is the average temperature of Reykjavík?

Average Temperature During the Summer

The summer months in Reykjavík typically last from June to August. During this time, temperatures generally hover between 8°C and 17°C (46°F to 62°F). However, temperatures sometimes reach as high as 25°C (77°F). The average daily high temperature during these months is 14°C (57°F). High humidity levels due to moist oceanic winds also contribute to making Reykjavík feel warmer than it actually is during the summer.

Average Temperature During the Winter

The winter months in Reykjavík span from December to March. During this time, temperatures generally range from -2°C to 7°C (28°F to 44°F). The average daily low temperature for this period of time is around 0°C (32°F). On rare occasions, temperatures drop to -18°C (-0.4°F) or below in Reykjavík. Snow is not uncommon and the city receives a fair amount of precipitation, even during warmer months.

Average Temperature Year-Round

Overall, the average temperature in Reykjavík year-round is around 6°C (43°F). The climate is considered mild and there are no large variations between seasons. Therefore, you can visit Reykjavík anytime throughout the year and expect reasonably mild temperatures. According to AccuWeather, the average temperature in Reykjavík in July 2020 was 11.6°C (53°F).

The oceanic climate that Reykjavík experiences, along with its northerly location and proximity to the Arctic circle, does make for some cold months and days from December to March. But, overall, the temperatures in Reykjavík remain relatively mild throughout the year, making it a great destination regardless of the season you choose to visit.

An Insider’s Guide to Reykjavík, Iceland

Reykjavík is Iceland’s capital and the northernmost capital city in the world. It’s a place where modern conveniences meet the harsh realities of nature. The city itself is small and walkable, offering a unique blend of metropolitan city life and rugged wilderness adventures. Here’s an insider’s guide to navigating and exploring Reykjavík.

Local Attractions

There are many attractions that visitors to Reykjavík should check out, ranging from museums and galleries to landmarks and natural wonders. Among the top sites to see in Reykjavík include:

– Hallgrímskirkja: The iconic, towering church in downtown Reykjavík that offers stunning panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
– Harpa Concert Hall: A beautifully designed glass concert hall located in the harbor area, offering stunning views of the sunset over the ocean.
– National Museum of Iceland: A great place to learn about Iceland’s history and culture, the National Museum houses thousands of artifacts and exhibits that provide an in-depth look at the country’s past.
– The Blue Lagoon: A geothermal spa located just outside Reykjavík, known for its milky-blue waters and skin-soothing mud masks.
– The Golden Circle: A popular tourist route, the Golden Circle includes stops at the stunning Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir hot springs, and Thingvellir National Park.

Dining Spots

Reykjavík’s restaurant scene is booming, offering a diverse range of options for all tastes and budgets. Some top culinary spots to try include:

– Fish Market: A trendy restaurant that focuses on sustainable seafood and fusion cuisine.
– Grillmarkaðurinn: An upscale restaurant that serves traditional Icelandic dishes with a modern twist, featuring locally sourced ingredients.
– Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur: An iconic hot dog stand in downtown Reykjavík that has been serving up delicious hot dogs with a variety of toppings since 1937.
– Reykjavík Roasters: A local coffee roaster and cafe that serves up delicious brews and great brunch items.
– Kex Hostel: A hip and trendy hostel that houses a popular restaurant and bar, offering great food and cocktails in an eccentric environment.

Cultural Experiences

Reykjavík boasts a rich cultural scene that includes music festivals, theater performances, art galleries, and museums. Some popular cultural experiences include:

– Iceland Airwaves: An annual music festival that takes place in November, showcasing Iceland’s thriving music scene and featuring both local and international artists.
– Reykjavík Art Museum: A collection of three different galleries that showcase contemporary Icelandic art, as well as works from international artists.
– Harpa Concert Hall: Besides offering stunning views, Harpa is also home to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra, which performs throughout the year.
– Saga Museum: An interactive museum where visitors can learn about Iceland’s Viking history through lifelike displays and artifacts.

Local History

Iceland has a rich and fascinating history, from the country’s Viking roots to its role in modern day politics. Some off-beat ways to explore its story include:

– Reykjavík City Museum: This museum traces the city’s history, from its earliest days as a small Viking settlement to the thriving city that it is today.
– Imagine Peace Tower: A unique art installation by Yoko Ono, located on Viðey Island just outside of Reykjavík, dedicated to world peace and the memory of John Lennon.
– Perlan Museum: A unique museum that is housed within six hot water tanks and puts the local nature, geology, and history into perspective.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For travelers who want to go beyond the tourist hot spots and experience Reykjavík in a more authentic way, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

– Secret Lagoon: A lesser-known hot spring located in the Golden Circle area, and far less crowded than the Blue Lagoon.
– Reykjavík Street Art: The city has a thriving street art scene, and taking a self-guided walking tour to experience some of the city’s best murals, including the colorful ‘You Are Alive’ piece created by Russ and Reyn.
– Icelandic Phallological Museum: Definitely a quirky visit, this museum displays a collection of penises and penile parts from various animals, including whales, seals and bears.
– Horse Riding: Outside of Reykjavík, visitors can have a truly Icelandic experience by joining a horse riding tour. Icelandic horses are unique and friendly and perfect for riders of all levels.