Reykjavík in January

Dark, storms and ice; Northern Lights possible.

All twelve months in one grid — weather, crowds and prices, with gaps left as unknown.

January is rated mixed. These months rate higher:

• JuneGreatMidnight sun; the busiest and best-lit month.
• JulyGreatMildest; the light is near-continuous.
• AugustGreatMild; nights darken again; Culture Night in August.
• MayGoodCool and bright; fewer crowds.

• ReykjavíkHighs around 2 °C (36 °F), lows around -3 °C (27 °F), rain on about 17 daysHighs around 36 °F (2 °C), lows around 27 °F (-3 °C), rain on about 17 days
• Reykjavík and the south-west, Iceland · Reykjavík, Golden Circle, Reykjanesstorm or typhoon risk

  Mild and windy: around 0 °C (32 °F) in January, 12–14 °C (54–57 °F) in July. About 21 h of daylight in June, 4–5 h in late December.Mild and windy: around 32 °F (0 °C) in January, 54–57 °F (12–14 °C) in July. About 21 h of daylight in June, 4–5 h in late December.

Dates as our data lists them. Moving holidays (lunar and Islamic calendars, Easter) shift every year: check the date for your year before you build a trip on it.

• New Year’s Day check

  1 January · Whole city

  Most shops and sights closed; some restaurants open in the evening.

• Þorrablót check

  Late January to February (check) · Restaurants and clubs

  A mid-winter feast with fermented shark and lamb; a novelty menu in some places.

• Christmas and New Year

  Dec 24–26 and Jan 1

  Most shops and restaurants shut for part of the day; check each place.

Crowds · Iceland overall

Low

Prices · Iceland overall

Medium

Iceland overall: 4–5 h of light, storms, ice caves and auroras; keep buffer days.

Weather, crowds and prices for any two months in Reykjavík, side by side.

• A warm coat, hat and gloves for mornings and evenings
• A rain jacket or umbrella and shoes that dry fast
• A spare day in the plan: storms can cancel flights and ferries

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