Verdict: Tough month
Reykjavík Weather in January
January is properly cold in Reykjavík, with highs of only 2°C (36°F). It's also the wet side of the calendar: rain falls on about 18 days, so build flexibility into plans. If your dates are flexible, most travelers will have a better time in Reykjavík outside January.
Average high
2°C / 36°F
Average low
-3°C / 27°F
Rain days
~18
Precipitation
157 mm
What to pack for Reykjavík in January
- Full winter kit — insulated coat, gloves, warm hat
- Rain gear is non-negotiable — expect rain on roughly 18 days
- Comfortable walking shoes — every guide on this site assumes you'll use them
January against the rest of the year
Warmest in Reykjavík: Jul (13°C / 55°F) · Coolest: Dec (1°C / 34°F) · Wettest: May (~20 rain days)
2°
-3°
Jan
2°
-2°
Feb
3°
-2°
Mar
6°
1°
Apr
9°
4°
May
11°
7°
Jun
13°
9°
Jul
13°
9°
Aug
10°
6°
Sep
6°
2°
Oct
4°
0°
Nov
1°
-3°
Dec
Daily highs / lows in °C · bars show rain days per month · ERA5 climate normals (2020–2024)