If you don’t like the weather in Iceland, just wait a while, and it’ll change!

This land of volcanic rock, hot springs, glaciers, rugged coastlines and green pastures sits at a meteorological meeting point between the cold Arctic Ocean and the mild Atlantic Gulf Stream. As a result, the weather changes on a daily, even hourly, basis!

Importantly, given its northerly latitude, Iceland is often not as cold as you might think. In general, the south of the country is wetter and milder than the north. But even in the depths of winter, the temperature at the capital, Reykjavik, is often above freezing point. However, nationwide, the windchill is often significant at any time of year.

Sleet and snow are frequent companions for winter visitors, with the interior of the country covered in deep snow for much of the season. This can compromise travel plans.

Springtime sees the country slowly emerging into daylight, with a sporadic thaw from all but the higher mountains and inland plateaus by summer.

Indeed the summer months of June to September are the optimal period for visitors to enjoy all that Iceland has to offer. And the days are so long too. It’s a good job, as there’s so much to fit in!

Temperatures can peak in the mid teens Celsius, or even higher, on calm sunny summer days. But always carry waterproofs, as the weather is notoriously fickle!

Then, in autumn the rapidly-shortening days bring much less tourism to Iceland. It may be a good value time to visit, while the daylight holds out. But it can be a wet and windy time of year.

Still, there’s no such thing as bad weather - just bad clothing! Dress well and enjoy!

Quick facts about

Iceland

Capital:

Currency:

Reykjavik