Weather in Iceland in February

In February in Iceland, we’re still in the depths of winter. It’s cold but the days are getting longer. And, with the snow on the hills, there’s much natural beauty to enjoy.

Find out what to expect from the February weather in Iceland below, as well as some ideas for things to do this month.

What to expect from the weather in Iceland in February

February is up there with the coldest months of the year in Iceland—and it’s, on average, one of the snowiest too. Here are the details you need to know when planning your trip.

What are the daylight hours in Iceland in February?

While the nights are still pretty short in Iceland in February, they’re getting longer fast.

For instance, on February 1 in Reykjavík, there are just over 7 hours of daylight. The sun comes up at 10:09 and sets at 17:13. By the end of the month, though, you’ll enjoy over 10 hours of daylight, with the sun rising at 08:37 and setting at 18:44.

Days in the northern region are still a little shorter during this month. For instance, in Akureyri, on February 1, the sun rises at 10:07 and sets at 16:45. Twenty-eight days later, it rises at 08:26 and sets at 18:24. So, at the start of the month, you have 6.5 hours of daylight, but by the end of the month, that increases to 10 hours.

Wherever you stay in Iceland this month, you’ll still have a great chance to see the northern lights. In the average year, this display is still visible until April!

What’s the temperature in Iceland in February?

In Iceland, February tends to be quite cold. In fact, across parts of the country, it’s the coldest moment of the year.

For instance, in the capital city of Reykjavík, the mean daily temperature is 0.5°C (32.9°F), with average highs of 3.3°C (37.9°F) and average lows of –1.9°C (28.6°F). In the capital, the record low temperature is –17.6°C (0.3°F).

On the north coast, the data shows that February is the very coldest month of the year. The daily temperature is –0.8°C (30.6°F), with average highs of 2.6°C (36.7°F) and average lows of –3.6°C (25.5°F). Watch out for some extreme temperatures in the north, though, as record lows have reached –21.2°C (–6.2°F).

There are some simple lessons to draw out of all these numbers. Iceland in February is cold—and you should pack accordingly. Warm layers, socks, and sturdy shoes are a must. Plus, watch out when driving, because there can be ice on the road.

How much rain does Iceland get in February?

In February in Iceland, precipitation tends to fall as snow.

In Reykjavík, for instance, you can experience as many as 12.4 snowy days (i.e. days with over a centimetre of snow) across the month. Typically, an average of 17.1 cm (6.7 inches) of snow falls. That number rises to 16.9 on average snowy days in Akureyri.

Of course, you can get rain in this season too, particularly given that global temperatures are increasing. However, generally speaking, February tends to be too cold for rain.

Be aware that out of the city, away from the sea, and at higher elevations, levels of snow will be greater. It’s something to bear in mind if you’re planning days out in the countryside.

What to get up to in Iceland in February

Don’t let the cold weather put you off exploring Iceland. There’s lots to see, do, and take part in, even in the darker days of February.

1. Celebrate Valentine’s Day in a romantic spa

February, of course, is the month of love. And what better way to spend February 14 than in a luxurious spa?

In Iceland, the Blue Lagoon remains the nation’s most famous spa destination, with its silty blue waters and its evocative setting in the centre of an active volcanic landscape.

Yet there are other indulgent options too. Check out Sky Lagoon in Reykjavík, or Geosea in Húsavík, for scenic infinity pools that overlook the ocean. Alternatively, visit the hot baths of Hvammsvík, on the banks of Hvalfjörður, for views of the fjord and surrounding mountains.

For something more intimate, choose a hotel with its own private spa. At Berjaya, many of our hotels have sleek modern facilities where you get pampered and unwind, even when the weather outside leaves something to be desired.

2. Check out a concert, cultural event, or local festival

Nothing stops Iceland’s jam-packed calendar of cultural events, not even the bad weather. And St Valentine’s Day aside, there’s something for everyone throughout February.

In Reykjavík, the month kicks off with the Winter Lights Festival. There are about 150 events across the city over this weekend, with the theme being light and darkness. Explore Reykjavík, and you’ll see the city’s major landmarks illuminated in multi-colour light shows designed by local artists.

If you’re in Iceland in February, you shouldn’t miss the end of Þorrablót, a traditional festival held during Þorri, a month in Iceland’s old calendar. It’s a great time to try some of Iceland’s most unusual delicacies, including boiled sheep’s head (it’s better than it sounds!).

3. Explore the Icelandic outdoors while they’re covered in snow

With frost on the ground and snow on the hills, Iceland is beautiful in winter. On your visit, get out into the countryside and see it for yourself.

Some of the most rewarding sites in Iceland can be reached within a couple of hours of Reykjavík. For instance, you can tour the magical trio of destinations—Gullfoss, Geysir geothermal area, and Þingvellir National Park—known as the Golden Circle. Or venture further along the south coast to see the likes of Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.

Alternatively, try an active adventure. Hike or snowmobile across a glacier, enter tunnels beneath an ice cap or even go snorkelling. The cold weather doesn’t need to hold you back!

4. Glimpse the northern lights while the night skies are still dark

In Iceland, the northern lights season runs from September to April. But you’ll have the best chance of seeing this breathtaking display during the longer nights of deep winter.

That makes February one of the top months of the year to see the aurora borealis. As soon as the light leaves for the evening, keep your eyes on the sky so you don’t miss these swirling extra-terrestrial colours.

Now, it’s best to get out of the city and away from the bright lights to see the aurora at its most vivid. You can use Aurora Forecast, a website sharing information about the best northern lights conditions, to track where to see the display.

Ideas to make the most of your winter trip to Iceland

As nights can be long and the weather quite wild, it’s important to keep some tips in mind to have the most relaxing, safe, and enjoyable trip you can.

• Know your resources for accurate information on weather forecasts and road conditions. The Icelandic Met Office is our most reliable source of local weather information, while the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration regularly share updates on travel conditions. Use them both, particularly when travelling around the country.
  
  

• Stay alert to changing conditions if you’re driving. Driving in Iceland can be different to what you’re used to at home, particularly in the winter. Watch out for high winds, ice, and blizzards. If you’re not comfortable driving in winter conditions, consider a guided tour instead.
  
  

• If in doubt about what you’ll need, overpack. In winter, you’ll want to dress to stay warm and dry. You’ll want warm layers, a waterproof jacket and shoes, as well as a hat, gloves, and anything else that will keep you warm. It’s better to have it and not need it!

Plus, no matter what time you come to Iceland, it’s always best to book your trip and any activities in advance. You don’t want to be disappointed when you arrive!

Quick summary: Why February is a great time to visit Iceland

February might be cold, snowy, and a little darker than other months. But there are many good reasons to visit too. It’s the perfect time to see the northern lights, for instance, and there are fewer people around to spoil the view.

At Berjaya, we’re committed to delivering an unforgettable experience to all our guests in Iceland, no matter what time of year you visit. Check out our range of hotels to book your trip today.

FAQ

Is February a good time to visit Iceland?

Take a glance at the weather and it might not look like February is a good time to visit Iceland—but you’d be surprised. With snow on the ground and fewer visitors than in high season, it’s a tranquil and beautiful time to visit the country.

What’s Iceland’s weather like in February?

In February, Icelandic weather is cold and snowy, and the days are short. But if you wrap up warm, there’s lots to enjoy—including the northern lights, a huge array of cultural events, and Iceland’s beautiful scenery.

What to do in Iceland in February?

Visiting Iceland in February? Try the following activities:

• Hunt the northern lights
• Try local delicacies during Þorrblót
• Indulge in a local spa
• Go on a romantic getaway for St Valentine’s Day
• Visit Iceland’s gorgeous natural scenery

Can you see the northern lights in Iceland in February?

February is right in the middle of the northern lights season in Iceland. It’s the perfect time for a northern lights tour.

Alternatively, use the Aurora Forecast to find the destinations where you’re most likely to see the northern lights.

How should I dress for the weather in Iceland in February?

As the saying goes, there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad equipment. So, to enjoy your trip to Iceland, make sure you’re dressed to stay warm and dry.

That means a warm and waterproof jacket and shoes. But it also means warm layers and very likely a hat and gloves.

Is it common to experience rain in February in Iceland?

Rain is possible in February in Iceland, but snow tends to be more likely. In Reykjavík, for instance, you can expect at least 12 snowy days throughout the month.

Are there any specific weather-related travel advisories for Iceland in February?

When travelling in Iceland in February, it’s important to be aware of the risk of heavy snow, ice on the roads, and winter storms. If you’re staying in the city of Reykjavík, you shouldn’t have a problem. But out on rural roads, driving can become challenging—particularly if you’re not used to wintry conditions.

Can I go glacier hiking in Iceland in February?

When the weather is good, February can be a great time for glacier hiking. The ice caps will be covered in snow, and the views will be breathtaking.

If you want to visit a glacier, please do so with a trained guide. If you’re not experienced in winter conditions, it can be very dangerous to hike on a glacier by yourself.

Is February a good time for whale watching in Iceland?

February can be a great time to go whale watching in Iceland. Orcas, humpbacks, and minke whales are frequently seen in this season—and with fewer visitors around, you can enjoy a much more intimate encounter.

How do the weather conditions in February affect driving in Iceland?

It’s important to keep your wits about you when driving in Iceland in winter. You can encounter ice, heavy snow, and high winds. In some cases, local roads can be closed.

Visit road.is for live details about road conditions across the country.

Are outdoor activities like hiking and hot springs recommended in February?

Activities such as hiking and visiting hot springs are recommended throughout the year. But if you want to go hiking in winter, you’ll need to be experienced in walking in winter conditions. If you’re not, book a guide or join a tour to ensure your safety.

What’s the best way to stay up to date on the weather in Iceland in February?

The best resource to keep you up to date on the weather in Iceland is the website of the Icelandic Met Office. It provides live information on weather conditions across the country.