Weather in Iceland in March

March is an unpredictable time in the north Atlantic. Winter is not quite over, but spring is struggling to begin. As a result, March is one of the snowiest months of the year, even while temperatures are heading upward.

In this post, learn everything you need to know about the weather in Iceland in March. Plus, discover some of the best things to do in this so-called “shoulder season”.

What to expect from the weather in Iceland in March

Longer days, marginally milder temperatures than other winter months, but still lots of snow—March is an exciting time to visit Iceland. Here’s what you can expect from the weather in detail.

What are the daylight hours in Iceland in March?

In March, Iceland is emerging from the dark days of winter. And throughout the month, the evenings are getting lighter quickly.

In Reykjavík, on March 1, the sun rises at 08:33 and sets at 18:47, meaning you have just over 10 hours of daylight each day. Fast forward to March 31 and dawn comes at 06:47 and dusk at 20:17. That’s 13.5 hours of daylight each day.

Up north in Akureyri, the daylight hours are roughly similar at this time of year. The sun rises at 08:22 and sets at 18:28 on March 1. Later this month, on March 31, it rises at 06:29 and sets at 20:05.

In general, in March, there’s a good balance between long enough days to make the most of Iceland’s outdoors and dark enough nights to enjoy the northern lights. Overall, it’s a great time to visit!

What’s the temperature in Iceland in March?

In March, temperatures are creeping up from their lowest points in December, January, and February. Visit this month, and while it will still be cold, you’ll experience fewer extreme temperatures than the months of deep winter.

Take Reykjavík as an example. In March, the daily mean temperature is 1.2°C (34.2°F), with average highs of 4.2°C (39.6°F) and average lows of –1.3°C (29.7°F). While record March temperatures have gone as low as –16.4°C (2.5°F), they’ve reached as high as 14.2°C (57.6°F).

Head to Akureyri, the “Capital of the North”, and you’ll find slightly colder temperatures. The daily average is 0°C (32°F), with average highs of 3.5°C (38.3°F) and lows of –2.6°C (27.3°F). Still, watch out for freak temperatures, such as the –23°C (–9.4°F) once recorded here this month.

It’s worth remembering that out of the towns and cities, temperatures are likely to be lower. So, if you’re heading outdoors, extra warm layers are a must.

How much rain does Iceland get in March?

In March in Iceland, heavy snowfalls are still likely. Rain can happen too on days when temperatures are higher, but most precipitation falls as snow.

For instance, in Reykjavík, while it might not snow as regularly as in other winter months, the sheer quantity of snow is likely to be higher. On average, the capital receives 23.2cm (9.1 inches) of snow in March—the highest number for any month of the year. Snow typically falls on 9.6 days of the month.

In Akureyri, in comparison, you can expect 16 days when it snows across the month. Of course, this doesn’t mean that it’ll snow continually for these 16 days, but you’re likely to experience some snow on one in every two days that you’re in the country.

What’s good to know, though, is that in March, you’re much more likely to enjoy clear skies. March is sunnier than the average month in Iceland.

What to get up to in Iceland in March

March is an exciting time to be in Iceland. With local events, the chance to explore Iceland’s outdoors, and relax in an Icelandic spa, there’s a lot to get up to.

1. Attend one of Reykjavík’s many cultural and culinary events

In March, Reykjavík has a non-stop calendar of local events. No matter what the weather’s doing, they make for a thrilling and unique glimpse of modern Icelandic culture. Here are some of our favourites:

• The Annual Icelandic Beer Festival. March 1. In Iceland, beer was illegal up until 1989. Since then, Icelanders have celebrated “beer freedom” at an annual beer festival.
  
  
• Food and Fun Festival. A culinary festival that takes place every March. Expect Reykjavík’s best restaurants to team up with world-class chefs for a range of events.
  
  
• Icelandic Music Experiments. This music competition for 13-25-year-olds has been running since 1982. It’s a chance to see Icelandic musical superstars of the future.

Beyond the annual events, there’s much more to see and do in Reykjavík—including concerts, exhibitions, and more. Check locally for listings and events!

2. Kick back at one of Iceland’s spa destinations

No trip to Iceland—in any season—is complete without a visit to a local spa. Across the country, luxurious facilities are set in breathtaking locations. Plus, many of our spas are heated by geothermal energy, i.e. the volcanic power of the earth.

You may have heard of the world-famous Blue Lagoon already. Here, you can bathe in the heart of an active volcanic landscape and enjoy the therapeutic effects of the silty waters.

But there are many more spa destinations to try, including:

• Sky Lagoon. Just outside of Reykjavík, Sky Lagoon offers you the chance to relax in an infinity pool overlooking the North Atlantic Ocean.
• Hvammsvík. Step into hot springs on the banks of the Hvalfjörður. It’s one of the most scenic spas in Iceland.
• Laugarvatn has modern facilities in the heart of the Golden Circle.

• Geosea. With its own infinity pool, this spa in Húsavík in the north of Iceland has exceptional views.

While destination spas make for a fantastic day out, you may prefer to relax a little closer to home. Explore our spa facilities at Berjaya to get pampered wherever you’re staying.

3. Glimpse the northern lights

March isn’t too late in the season to see the northern lights. As the nights are still dark and the skies are more likely to be clear, the conditions are almost perfect.

Of course, no one can guarantee that you’ll see the display. The northern lights are a natural phenomenon caused by chemical reactions on the surface of the sun. However, you can boost your chances of seeing the incredible spectacle just by being in the right place at the right time.

One way to do that is to join a Northern Lights tour. On any given night, you’ll be taken to the spot with the best conditions to see the aurora borealis—by a local expert guide.

Alternatively, you can go it alone. All you need is a tool like Aurora Forecast, and you can track the best conditions across the country yourself.

4. Make the most of longer days in the Icelandic outdoors

March offers you the beauty of Icelandic winter combined with longer daylight hours. That means you’ve got much more time to explore.

Why not use the longer days for a road trip? Hire a car and take to the Ring Road, the circular highway that loops the entirety of Iceland. Or take just a couple of days out of the capital city to explore the Golden Circle, home to some of the most renowned sights in the country.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you could try an active experience. For instance, March is a good time to join a glacier hike led by an expert guide. Or you could venture beneath the ice caps on a tour of ice caves and tunnels.

There’s something for everyone. Explore our full range of tours to find the adventure for you.

Tips to get the best out of your March trip to Iceland

In March, Icelandic weather is changeable—and can be quite extreme. To help you enjoy your visit to the fullest, here are some tips to keep you safe and comfortable.

• Plan for everything from warm days to snow storms. March can throw all kinds of different weather at you, so it’s best to come prepared. Bring a waterproof jacket and shoes, and plenty of warm layers. Lots of smaller layers are better than a single large layer so that you can take them off as you warm up (and put them on again if you get cold).
  
  

• Check the forecast from the Icelandic Met Office. With the weather likely to be a little changeable, it’s always worth keeping an eye on the forecast—particularly if you’re heading outdoors. The Icelandic Met Office has the most reliable forecasts available locally.
  
  

• Stay up to speed on road conditions and aurora forecasts. If you’re driving outside the city, the website of the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration is useful to stay informed about live road conditions. These can change regularly as the weather changes, so it’s best to keep up to date. Similarly, if you’re hunting the northern lights, the Aurora Forecast is the tool to use.

While March isn’t one of Iceland’s busiest seasons, we’d also say: book ahead. It means you’ll avoid disappointment for whatever experience or adventure you’re looking to get involved in.

Quick summary: Why you should visit Iceland in March

In March, Iceland offers the best of winter with the lighter days of summer. It’s a heady mix, letting you explore gorgeous snow-covered landscapes at your leisure. Now, why not book your trip?

At Berjaya, we’re committed to making every visit to Iceland unforgettable. Explore our range of hotels to find the perfect place to stay.

FAQ

Is March a good time to visit Iceland?

Visit Iceland in March and see Iceland in winter but without the short, dark days. It’s a fantastic time to visit, with a huge range of cultural events, gorgeous landscapes, and fewer tourists than at busier times of year.

What’s Iceland’s weather like in March?

In March, temperatures are warmer than in the rest of the winter, but you can still expect lots of snow. Overall, the weather is changeable and varied—so it’s important to check the forecast no matter what you’re planning.

What to do in Iceland in March?

There’s lots to do in Iceland in March:

• See the northern lights
• Visit an Icelandic spa
• Attend cultural and culinary festivals in Reykjavík
• Go on a road trip or outdoor adventure
• Hike on a glacier or visit ice caves

Can you see the northern lights in Iceland in March?

March is a good time to see the northern lights. The nights are still dark enough for the aurora to appear in its full brightness, but the skies tend to be clearer than during other months of winter. It’s a winning combination!

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

Dress to stay warm and dry. It’s smart to dress in layers, so you can add a layer or take one off as temperatures change. And wherever you go, always bring a waterproof jacket with you.

Is it common to experience rain in March in Iceland?

In March, most precipitation falls as snow. But rain isn’t unlikely. It’s smart to pack a waterproof jacket and take it wherever you go.

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

Snow, ice, and high winds can affect travel in Iceland during March. Check local forecasts for up-to-date information.

Can I go glacier hiking in Iceland in March?

March is a great time for glacier hiking. It’s an incredible experience to walk across these mighty ice caps.

That said, please only go glacier hiking with a guide. Glaciers are volatile places, and without experience it can be dangerous.

Is March a good time for whale watching in Iceland?

In March, you can see orcas, humpbacks, minke whales, as well as dolphins and seals in Iceland. Explore our whale-watching tours to see the best options for you.

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

The weather in March can be changeable and in some cases quite extreme. If you’re driving in Iceland, please check the forecast before you journey out. The Icelandic Met Office is a reliable resource, along with road.is which shares updates on road conditions across the country.

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

With a better chance of good weather than in the rest of winter, March is a great time for outdoor activities. Just check the forecast before you go.

Explore our range of tours here.

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

Your best resources for staying up to date on the weather in Iceland is by using the Icelandic Met Office and road.is. Together, these provide detailed information on weather forecasts and road conditions across the country.