Reykjavik in May
Good time to visit
The city comes alive in May. Locals emerge from hibernation, outdoor cafés reopen, and you'll finally understand why people choose to live here.
Weather
May is when Reykjavik actually becomes livable again. Temperatures reach double digits on good days, and you'll get nearly 17 hours of daylight by month's end. Rain still falls regularly, but it's warmer rain that doesn't cut through your soul.
10°C high5°C low10 rain days
Crowds & Cost
moderate crowds
~$210/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Reykjavik Arts Festival
- •Labour Day (May 1)
- •Museums Night
May Tips
- •May is prime lupine season - the purple flowers bloom all over the city
- •Museums Night offers free admission to most cultural sites
- •Pack layers - mornings are still chilly but afternoons can be surprisingly warm
All Months
Summer means midnight sun and lupine flowers painting the countryside purple. June through August brings 18-hour days, temperatures around 60°F, and the best hiking conditions. But everyone else knows this too – expect crowds and premium prices. Winter offers Northern Lights from September to March, plus that cozy hygge feeling in steamy cafes. December through February sees just 4 hours of daylight, but the aurora dancing overhead makes up for it. Spring and fall are underrated – fewer tourists, decent weather, and you might still catch the lights in September or April. Just pack layers. Icelandic weather changes faster than a toddler's mood.
Reykjavik Scores
Solo
9/10
Couples
8/10
Families
7/10
Adventure
8/10
Budget
4/10
Luxury
7/10
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