What to Expect: Iceland's Weather in May

Understanding Iceland’s Weather in May

May is right in the middle of spring in Iceland, a time when the country moves from winter’s chill to the warmth of summer. The spring thaw starts, and melting snow turns the landscape green with blooming flowers, especially lovely lupines. But don’t get too comfortable—Icelandic low-pressure systems can still mix things up with rain, sunshine, and sometimes windy conditions.

Even with the variable weather, May is a fantastic time to visit. Long daylight hours—up to 18-20 hours by the end of the month—give you plenty of time to explore and enjoy outdoor activities. While the Northern Lights are harder to see because of all the daylight, the bright days offer their own kind of magic.

What is The Average Temperature in May in Iceland?

In May, average temperatures in Reykjavik usually range from 4°C to 10°C (39°F to 50°F). Akureyri, up north, can be a bit cooler, especially in the evenings. Coastal areas enjoy milder weather, while inland and higher-altitude regions might still have some snow in the Highlands.

Remember, road conditions can vary a lot across the country. Most roads are clear and easy to drive on, but some F-roads (mountain roads) might still be closed because of snow and ice. Always check the latest road conditions before you set out.

How Much Does It Rain in May in Iceland?

Rainfall in May can vary, with Reykjavik getting about 40 mm (1.57 inches) of rain spread over around 7 rainy days. While May has less snow compared to winter, mild spring showers are common, especially in the southern and western parts. This mix of rain and sunshine is part of what makes Iceland’s weather so unique.

Rain Patterns in May by Region

Rainfall across Iceland in May depends on where you are. The coastal weather brings more rain to the west and south coasts, while the north stays relatively drier but still cool. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula, known for its beautiful landscapes, also gets mixed rain levels thanks to its exposure to Icelandic low-pressure systems.

The Weather in Different Regions of Iceland in May

Just like in April, the weather in May can change depending on where you are in Iceland. Knowing what to expect in different regions helps you plan your days and make sure you’re ready for anything.

Reykjavik Weather in May

In Reykjavik, May temperatures usually range between 4°C and 10°C (39°F to 50°F). With long daylight hours, there’s plenty of time to explore the city’s attractions. It can still get pretty windy and rainy, though, so it’s always smart to bring a waterproof jacket just in case.

South Iceland Weather in May

As you head south from Reykjavik, it gets a bit warmer as spring settles in. Expect some light rain, but nothing too heavy. It’s a great time to check out spots like Gullfoss Waterfall and Þingvellir National Park, and you might even catch a glimpse of puffins along the coast, as it's nesting season.

North Iceland Weather in May

Up north, including Akureyri, it’s still cooler in May compared to the south. Temperatures are lower, but you won’t see as much rain. If you head up to the higher elevations, there’s even some lingering snow. Akureyri is also a perfect base for whale-watching tours, where you can spot humpbacks and minke whales.

The Central Highlands in May

The Central Highlands are mostly off-limits in May because of snow and icy roads. Some lower areas might start to thaw, but it’s still best to double-check road conditions if you’re thinking of heading that way.

May 2024 Weather Recap

May’s weather last year in Iceland was a bit of a mix. The northeast and east had plenty of sunshine with warm, dry days, while the southwest and west were cooler and rainier. Here’s a closer look at what May brought in 2024.

(Most of this information comes from Vedur.is)

Temperatures

While the temperatures recorded in the first four months of the year were below average, May brought slightly higher temperatures than in the last three decades. Surprisingly, Akureyri was hotter than Reykjavik.

• Reykjavík: The average temperature in Reykjavík was 6.9°C (44.42ºF), which is 0.2°C above the 1991–2020 average and 0.1°C above the past decade's average.
• Akureyri: The city’s average temperature was 7.8°C (46.04ºF), 1.6°C above the 1991–2020 average and 1.2°C above the past decade's average.
• Stykkishólmur: The average temperature here was 6.4°C (43.52ºF).
• Höfn in Hornafjörður reached 7.7°C (45.86ºF).

Highest & Lowest Averages Nationwide

Below is some information showing average temperatures and deviations from the 1991–2020 period:

• The warmest average temperature was 8.5°C (47.3ºF) at Skarðsfjöruviti.
• The coldest average temperature was 0.2°C (32.36ºF) at Þverfjall.
• Among inhabited areas, the lowest average temperature was 3.8°C (38.84ºF) at Fontur on Langanes.
• The warmest day of the month hit 21.5°C (70.7ºF), recorded at Mánárbakki and Húsavík on the 25th.
• The coldest temperature was -10.2°C (13.64ºF) at Setur on the 1st, while inhabited areas saw a low of -6.9°C (19.58ºF) at Þingvellir on the 9th.

May 2024 Extremes

• In Reykjavík, the coldest temperatures were 2ºC (35.6°F) on May 6th and 9th, and the warmest was 16ºC (60.8°F) on May 26th.
• In Akureyri, the lowest temperature was -1ºC (30.2°F) on May 2nd, and the highest was 18ºC (64.4°F) on May 25th.

Precipitation

May’s rainfall was split between the regions: it was wetter in the southwest and west and drier in the northeast and east.

• Reykjavík recorded 73.3 mm, which is 40% above average.
• Akureyri received 13.0 mm, about 55% of the average.
• Stykkishólmur experienced an unusually wet May with 112.5 mm, almost three times the average.

Notable Events:

Stykkishólmur had its third wettest May ever, with 39 mm of rain falling in just one day on the 25th—the most for a single day in May since records began. A similar amount of rain was recorded in May 2018 (113.2 mm), while the wettest May on record was back in 1875, with 132.0 mm.

Days with 1.0 mm or more of precipitation:

• Reykjavík: 16 days (6 more than average)
• Akureyri: 4 days (1 fewer than average)

Snow

Snow was minimal in May.

• Reykjavík remained snow-free for the entire month.
• Akureyri saw patchy snow on the ground during the first two days but stayed bare for the rest of the month.

Sunshine

May was bright in Akureyri but duller in Reykjavík:

• Akureyri recorded 252.5 hours of sunshine, which is 81.5 hours above the average. It was the fourth sunniest May on record, with only 1968, 2012, and 1975 recording more sunshine.
• Reykjavík, on the other hand, saw 145.3 hours of sunshine, 63.7 hours below average.

What to Pack For The Weather in May

Packing smart for Iceland in May is key. You’ll want to be prepared for anything from mild days to chilly evenings, and that means layers.

• Layered clothing: Thermal layers, fleece tops, and warm jackets are your go-to for staying cozy.
• Waterproof jacket: Always handy for those unexpected rain showers.
• Hat and gloves: Even in spring, a hat and gloves can keep you comfortable when it gets cool.
• Sturdy shoes: Waterproof hiking boots are a must for Iceland’s varied terrain.
• Extras: Sunglasses for those bright days and a small backpack for day trips.

What to Do in Iceland in May

May is an awesome month to visit. The snow is melting, the days are getting longer, and there’s a great mix of outdoor adventures and cultural activities to enjoy.

• Whale Watching: It’s prime whale-watching season in May, with tours running from Akureyri, Húsavík, and Reykjavik to see humpback and minke whales.
• Golden Circle Tours: This is the perfect time to visit Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area before the summer crowds arrive.
• Hiking: The blooming flowers and thawing snow make May an ideal time for hiking on Iceland’s scenic trails.
• Geothermal Pools: Relax in the warm waters of the Blue Lagoon or Secret Lagoon, which are especially nice in the mild spring air.
• Puffin Watching: May is the start of puffin nesting season, so head to the coast for a chance to see these cute birds.
• Cultural Events: May is full of festivals and events celebrating the arrival of summer, where you can experience local traditions and culture.

Nature in May

Iceland’s landscape really starts to come to life in May. The snow begins to melt, the green starts to return, and wildflowers bloom. Þingvellir National Park offers stunning views, and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula shows off its dramatic coastlines and volcanic features.

The Blue Lagoon is also a great spot to unwind, with warm geothermal waters that feel amazing against the fresh spring air. Plus, the melting snow provides perfect opportunities for photography and outdoor adventures, showing off Iceland’s natural beauty.

Tips For Your Trip, With the Weather in Mind

Here are some simple tips to make your trip to Iceland in May go smoothly:

• Dress in layers: The weather changes fast, so be prepared by packing clothes you can layer.
• Book ahead: Even though it’s not peak season, it’s a good idea to book your accommodation and tours early, especially for popular ones like the Golden Circle.
• Respect nature: Iceland is all about pristine beauty, so help keep it that way by sticking to marked paths and following local guidelines.
• Check the weather: Keep an eye on the forecast so you can adjust your plans if needed.
• Monitor road conditions: Before heading out, check road.is for up-to-date road conditions, especially if you’re driving in more remote areas.
• Guided tours: For remote or highland areas, a guided tour can be a safe and fun way to explore.
• Stay flexible: Iceland’s weather can change quickly, so be ready to shift your plans if necessary.

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Making the Most of Iceland’s Weather in May

May in Iceland feels like the best of both worlds – spring is kicking in, but there’s still a touch of winter hanging around. With long days and fewer crowds, it’s a great time to explore at your own pace.

The weather can surprise you, but as long as you’re dressed for it and keep things flexible, you’ll have a blast. Whether you’re hiking through vibrant landscapes, spotting whales, or just relaxing in a geothermal pool, May is the perfect time to soak in Iceland’s charm.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Weather in Iceland in May