What is the Best Time to Visit Reykjavik?

When planning a visit to Reykjavik, deciding when to go is an important part of the adventure. Reykjavik can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time to visit depends on the type of weather and activities that are preferred.

Considerations When Selecting A Time To Visit Reykjavik

As with any tourist destination, the time of year selected will have a dramatic effect on the type of travel experience that is had. In Reykjavik and throughout Iceland, the weather can vary greatly depending on which time of year it is. This means that it is important to take into account the specific weather that is desired when selecting a date range for a visit.

The Best Time to Visit Reykjavik For Perfect Weather

The months of July and August are considered to be the best months for travelling to Reykjavik for perfect weather. During this time, the average daily temperature is around 14 degrees Celsius, so it is perfect for enjoying outdoor activities. This also coincides with the months of higher tourist traffic, which means more events and activities to enjoy.

The Best Time For Sightseeing and Culture

May, June and September are great months for visitors wanting to take in more sightseeing and cultural activities. The city of Reykjavik is most alive during these months. During this time, the temperature tends to range between 9 and 13 Celsius, so it is great for comfortable exploring all that the city has to offer.

The Best Time For Budget Conscious Travellers

For travellers looking for the best deals during their visit to Reykjavik, May and September tend to provide the best bargains. This is due, in part, to reduced tourist numbers during these months. In conjunction with fewer visitors on hand, many hotels begin offering promotions and discounts at this time.

The Best Time For Northern Lights Observation Tours

Viewing the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) has become increasingly popular in recent years as a major point of interest for international visitors in Reykjavik. As such, there are many tour operators who specialize in tours focused solely around viewing this phenomenon. The best time to go on these tours is usually in the winter months (October through March) as this is when the number of clear night skies are highest; however, it is important to note that viewpoint locations can and will change due to solar activity and weather conditions.

In conclusion, deciding when to visit Reykjavik largely depends on preference. From budget travelers looking for a deal to those seeking culture and outdoor activities, there can be something for everyone during any month of the year. The key to finding the best time to visit Reykjavik is understanding the key considerations before booking that can influence the full travel experience. For additional information on planning a trip to Reykjavik, head on over to visit Reykjavik, where you can learn more about connecting with locals, discovering hidden gems, attractions, events and more!

An Insider’s Guide to Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland, is a year-round tourist destination that gets glistening under the Northern lights due to its location near the Arctic Circle. However, the question that lingers around the mind of most tourists is ‘When is the best time to visit Reykjavik?’. Well, it all depends on what you want to see and experience in this beautiful city of Iceland.

Best Time to Visit Reykjavik

The best time to visit Reykjavik is during the summer season, i.e., from June to August, when the temperatures are mild, and the days are longer providing ample time to explore the city and its nearby attractions. During this time, Reykjavik offers various outdoor activities such as hiking, whale watching, and exploring the nearby glaciers. If you are looking for quieter surroundings, then autumn (September-October) and spring (April-May) can be considered, with fewer crowds and cheaper accommodation.

Local Attractions

Reykjavik has a lot of attractions that visitors can enjoy and explore. Its proximity to natural wonders like geysers, waterfalls, and hot springs make Reykjavik one of the most enchanting cities globally. Here are some of the must-visit attractions:

• Golden Circle Tour – a day trip to Gullfoss, Geysir hot springs and Thingvellir National Park.
• Blue Lagoon – a geothermal spa that provides a relaxing and refreshing experience.
• Hallgrímskirkja Church – a quirky-looking church in the city center with a fantastic view from the top.
• Whale Watching Tour – an adventure on the Icelandic waters to watch some of the world’s largest mammals.
• Solheimasandur Plane Crash – a remote location on the Icelandic south coast where a US Navy DC-3 crashed in 1973.

Dining Spots

Reykjavik offers a variety of dining options with a blend of traditional Icelandic fare and international cuisine. The city has a vibrant food culture, and if you are a foodie, you are in for a treat. Some of the must-visit dining spots in Reykjavik include:

• Grillmarkadurinn – a restaurant that serves traditional Icelandic fare with a modern twist.
• Fish Market – a seafood restaurant that offers fresh, locally caught seafood dishes.
• The Coocoo’s Nest – a café in the city center that serves excellent breakfast and brunch dishes.
• Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur – a hot dog stand famous for the Icelandic hot dogs with special sauce, mustard, ketchup, and fried onions.
• Jómfrúin – a sandwich shop that offers traditional Icelandic open-faced sandwiches known as smørrebrød.

Cultural Experiences

Reykjavik has a rich cultural heritage that visitors can explore through various experiences. If you’re looking for a taste of Icelandic culture, here are some experiences worth checking out:

• The Icelandic Phallological Museum – a museum dedicated to the study and display of penises from all sorts of mammals found in Iceland.
• The National Museum of Iceland – a museum that provides information about Iceland’s culture and history.
• The Harpa Concert Hall – a performing arts center with exhibitions, shows, and concerts.
• The Imagine Peace Tower – a memorial to John Lennon, known as the “the tower of light.”.
• The Settlement Exhibition – an exhibition that displays Viking Age artifacts found in Iceland.

Local History

Reykjavik, being the capital city of Iceland, has a rich history that visitors can explore. Here are some historical attractions that are worth checking out:

• The Reykjavik Maritime Museum – a museum that provides insight into the Icelandic maritime and fishing history.
• The Settlement Exhibition – an exhibition that displays Viking Age artifacts found in Iceland.
• The Perlan Museum – a museum that has exhibits on the Icelandic glaciers, wildlife, and the universe.
• The National Museum of Iceland – a museum that provides information about Iceland’s culture and history.
• The Imagine Peace Tower – a memorial to John Lennon, known as the “the tower of light.”.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to explore Reykjavik off the beaten path, there are plenty of exciting and unique experiences to be had. Here are some of the hidden gems that you must visit:

• The Puffin Watching Tour – a tour that takes you on a boat ride to watch puffins in their natural habitat.
• The Reykjavik Flea Market – a flea market where you can find a variety of local souvenirs and Icelandic delicacies.
• The Secret Solstice Festival – a music festival that takes place in June during the summer solstice, and visitors can experience the “Midnight Sun” phenomenon.
• Volcano Hiking Tour – a guided tour that takes you on a hike to a dormant volcano, the Thrihnukagigur Volcano, which has an empty magma chamber.
• The Reykjavik Art Museum – a museum that showcases contemporary art by Icelandic and international artists.

Reykjavik is one of the most captivating cities in the world with its vibrant culture, rich history, and mesmerizing natural beauty. With this insider’s guide, you will be able to plan your trip to Reykjavik and make the most of your visit.