Iceland Weather in May
May brings long daylight hours, while the Reykjavík average daily minimum is still only 4.0°C. Plan for outdoor time with layers, and make highland access a separate check.
May compared with the adjacent months
| Month | Average daily maximum | Average daily minimum | Monthly precipitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| April | 6.9°C | 1.0°C | 59.0 mm |
| May | 10.1°C | 4.0°C | 52.6 mm |
| June | 13.0°C | 7.2°C | 43.3 mm |
Source: WMO normals archived by NOAA (CSV), checked September 10, 2026. Temperatures are averages of daily highs and lows, not extremes. Precipitation is a monthly total, not the number of rainy days. This Reykjavík station does not represent every region or elevation.
Long days, separate highland checks
Do not let an open-looking valley or a mild day in Reykjavík stand in for the road-status map. If a highland destination is essential, confirm the exact approach road and transport plan before arranging the surrounding nights.
For a coastal wildlife day, start with the departure harbor and trip schedule, then fit the rest of the route around it. A distant cliff or boat trip is a different commitment from a stop beside the Ring Road.
What to keep within reach
Pack a warm hat and gloves alongside lighter walking layers. An eye mask can help if a bright bedroom interrupts sleep; keep a normal rest window even when the evening still looks inviting.
Check the conditions for your day
- IMO weather forecasts: choose the region and forecast time.
- Road conditions and SafeTravel alerts: check the actual route and destination before departure.
- IMO aurora page: darkness and cloud cover matter alongside activity. Its sun-time panel is for Reykjavík.
For the wider comparison, see Iceland’s climate, April and June.
Planning help
May weather questions
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
How cold is Iceland in May?
Reykjavík’s 1991–2020 average daily maximum is 10.1°C and average daily minimum 4.0°C. These station normals describe historical averages, not the full range of possible temperatures or a forecast for all Iceland.
Is this a forecast for May 2026?
No. The table uses 1991–2020 climate normals. Check the Icelandic Meteorological Office forecast for the actual place and dates of your trip.
For monthly temperature and rainfall averages, explore the climate data in our Iceland statistics.