How hot is iceland in summer? A quick guide

Iceland does not get very hot during the summer, however, neither does it get extremely cold. 

The main factor is the wind. 

Always check how windy it is, since we don’t factor that into the temperature. You won’t find ‘feels like’ on the Icelandic weather website vedur.is, no no, you need to take care of that yourself. 

The key thing is to be prepared for all types of weather! 

So good outdoor clothing are a must! Wonder where you can find those….wink wink. 

Temperature in Iceland in the summer

Iceland’s summer, spanning from May to September (roughly), offers mild temperatures that are cooler compared to many other destinations. 

Here’s a month-by-month breakdown: 

• May: Average temperatures range from 4°C to 10°C (39°F to 50°F). 

• June: Expect averages between 9°C and 15°C (48°F to 59°F). 

• July: The warmest month, with averages from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). 

• August: Temperatures typically range from 8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F). 

• September: Cooling down, averages fall between 5°C and 10°C (41°F to 50°F). 

While July is the warmest month, temperatures rarely exceed 20°C (68°F). The weather can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in wind lowering the temperature and occasional rain. 

Examples of Summer Weather in Iceland 

Here are three real-world examples of what you might expect during an Icelandic summer day: 

Example 1

 Temperature: 57°F (14°C) 

 Wind: 13 mph 

 Conditions: Cloudy with occasional drizzle 

So this is a fairly decent day. The temperature will be a bit lower since it’s a bit windy and raining. But I’d say a thin base layer like merino wool or a midlayer like a sweater and an insulated raincoat will be more than enough.  

On a day like this, it’ll be nice and warm with a bit of wind to cool you off.  

Example 2

 Temperature: 50°F (10°C) 

 Wind: 3 mph 

 Conditions: Mostly sunny 

This is a lovely day, wear whatever you want. It might get a bit chilly if the sun goes behind the clouds, so have a jacket or sweater ready to go in that case. 

Example 3

 Temperature: 52°F (11°C) 

 Wind: 26 mph  

 Conditions: Windy with light rain showers 

On a day like this, the temperature is way lower than it says it is, and it’s raining. Definitely have your layers on and good outdoor clothes. 

What to wear in Iceland

Here’s a quick video about it if you prefer that!

Given the variable weather, layering is key. Here’s what to consider: 

• Base Layer: Merino wool 

• Middle Layer: Insulating layer like a fleece or lightweight sweater. 

• Outer Layer: Insulated raincoat, summer parka or a shell. The thinner the outer layer, the more layers you’ll need. 

• Bottoms: Water-resistant pants. 

• Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots. 

• Accessories: Hat, gloves, and sunglasses. 

Even in summer, it’s advisable to be prepared for rain and wind. 

Frequently asked questions

Here are some questions (and hopefully answers) you might have.

Q1: Is it ever hot in Iceland during summer? 

 While July is the warmest month, temperatures rarely exceed 20°C (68°F). 

Q2: Do I need a heavy coat in summer? 

 Not necessarily. A good jacket that can protect you from the rain and wind should suffice. We recommend the insulated raincoat or the summer parka. 

Q3: Can I wear shorts in Iceland during summer? 

 On warmer days, yes. However, it’s advisable to carry layers with you. In a backpack, for example. 

Q4: Are there mosquitoes in Iceland? 

 Iceland is largely mosquito-free, but we do have sand flies that sting. They are mostly around rivers and lakes. A mosquito net is recommended during July and August if you’re going up north. 

Q5: Do I need special footwear for hiking? 

 Sturdy hiking boots are recommended for uneven and potentially wet terrains. 

Q6: Is it necessary to bring a swimsuit? 

 Yes, for enjoying Iceland’s numerous hot springs and geothermal pools. 

That’s it! 

For more details on what to wear, check out our blog here. 

And if you have any questions, you can send us a line right here!