Weather in Iceland in April

In April, spring is officially here in Iceland. Expect milder weather, longer days, and more hours of sunshine. It’s a great time to visit the Land of Fire and Ice.

In this guide, discover what’s essential to know about the weather in Iceland in April. We’ll share some top things to do this month and answer some of your most common questions, too.

What to expect from the weather in Iceland in April

Years ago, when Iceland used the Old Norse calendar, there were two seasons recognised in the Land of Fire and Ice: winter and summer. According to that calendar, summer kicked off on April 18.

While the start of the warmer season is still celebrated in Iceland, the weather itself follows its own rules. Of course, temperatures are generally trending upwards throughout April, but snow is still more than possible, even if it’s officially summer.

Here are the details.

What are the daylight hours in Iceland in April?

As April in Iceland is the month where we tick over into summer, we’ve left the darker days of winter long behind. This month, we get a taste of what’s ahead in terms of daylight hours, with early sunrises and long evenings.

For instance, in Reykjavík on April 1, the sun rises at 06:44 and sets at 20:20. By April 30, though, the sun rises at 05:01 and sets at 21:50. That means that by the end of the month, you’re in for nearly 17 hours of daylight each day.

Generally, if you head north in this season, the more light you will enjoy. In Akureyri, on April 1, you can expect the sun to rise at 06:25 and set at 20:08. Then, on April 30, the sun will rise at 04:34 and set at 21:47.

It’s not quite the season of the midnight sun just yet, but we’re getting close!

What’s the temperature in Iceland in April?

You can expect a serious range of potential temperatures in Iceland in April. While summer might be approaching, the cold of winter has not entirely passed.

In Reykjavík, daily average temperatures sit at 3.7°C (38.7°F), i.e. not what many countries would call summer weather! Average highs reach 6.9°C (44.4°F) and average lows are at 1°C (33.8°).

However, the capital city has recorded temperatures as high as 17.1°C (62.8°F) in April and as low as –16.4°C (2.5°F).

In the north of Iceland, temperatures can be even more extreme still. The daily average is 2.6°C (36.7°F), with average highs of 6.6°C (43.9°F) and lows of –0.3°C (31.5°F). But record temperatures have reached as low as –18.2°C (–0.8°F) and have hit a summery 21.5°C (70.7°F).

So, you can experience very different conditions in April in Iceland. It’s really important that you come prepared for all weather—and that you check the forecast when you travel.

How much rain does Iceland get in April?

In April, Iceland is entering the driest season of the year. Typically, the months from April to July have the lowest amounts of rain of any season.

That said, in April, both rain and snow are possible. In Reykjavík, you can expect 12 precipitation days (i.e. days with over 1mm of rain) throughout the month, 2.1 snowy days on average.

The north tends to be drier. Akureyri has 6.7 precipitation days this month and 5.7 snowy days.

Still, the sun shines in April more than most other months. Only May, June, and July promise more hours of sunshine!

What to get up to in Iceland in April

As in all other months in Iceland, there’s lots going on in April. These are just some ideas for what to get up to while you’re here.

1. Welcome the Icelandic summer at Sumardagurinn fyrsti

The centrepiece of Iceland’s cultural calendar in April is Sumardagurinn fyrsti, or the First Day of Summer. It’s celebrated every year on the first Thursday after April 18.

In Iceland, it’s a public holiday, and you can expect to see parades and celebrations across the country. These can change every year, so check locally for what events are taking place when you’re there.

As we mentioned above, the start of summer is not really about welcoming warm temperatures. Instead, it’s about the start of longer days—which we’d say is definitely something to celebrate!

2. Get tickets for music, sports, or cultural festivals

Look around the country, and you’ll find unique and exciting events to attend. In April, there’s something for everyone:

• AK Extreme. The annual snowboarding festival takes place over a weekend at the beginning of April. Head to Akureyri and the local Mount Hlíðarfjall to see the action.
• Aldrei fór ég suður (“I never went south”). Visit Ísafjörður in the Westfjords during Easter, and you’ll be there in time for this ski week and rock festival. The ski week has been held locally since 1935!

• Children’s Culture Festival. Every April in Reykjavík, there’s an annual festival dedicated to kids. It’s an opportunity for some educational local fun.

• Design March. Reykjavík’s annual design festival takes place at the end of April. It showcases the best of Icelandic design, from architecture to food and everything in between.

• Reykjavík International Literary Festival. One of the most important literary events in Europe, the festival has been going on for forty years. The whole program is in English, and all events are free to attend.

Of course, it’s not just the annual events that are worth seeing. At the many cultural venues across the country, you can see many smaller shows and one-off events. Check locally for details.

3. See Iceland’s outdoors in spring

In April, Iceland’s landscapes are in slow transformation. While occasional snows throughout the month are still possible (particularly in areas of higher elevation), there are signs of spring approaching. For instance, snowdrops, crocuses, and daffodils add colour to the landscape.

It means that April is a particularly beautiful season to visit rural Iceland. And there’s so much to see and do.

One way to take it all in is on a tour of Iceland’s Ring Road. This is a circular route around the entire island of Iceland, connecting the capital Reykjavík with the likes of the rugged coast of the Eastfjords, the whaling villages of North Iceland, and the dramatic sights of the Western Region.

Alternatively, if you prefer to base yourself in a single place, make day trips instead. From Reykjavík, for example, you can visit the exquisite trio of sights in the Golden Circle, or head north to Snæfellsjökull National Park.

There are other exciting ways to experience Iceland’s outdoors. Visit a natural spa, for instance, in the heart of the wilderness. Go glacier hiking on Iceland’s expansive ice caps. Or take to the sea for a whale watching tour. Explore our full range of tours for the perfect adventure for you.

4. Take the last chance of the year to see the northern lights

April in Iceland is the very end of the northern lights season. After this, there’s simply too much light in the night sky, which can obstruct the shimmering patterns of solar activity.

Still, April has its benefits as a month to see the aurora borealis. You have a much better chance of clear skies, for instance. And while it doesn’t get dark as early as in the depths of winter, you’ll just need to stay up until later!

Use the Aurora Forecast website to find live details of northern lights conditions across the country. Or, to make your life easier, join a northern lights tour, where you’ll be led to the best spots to see the aurora on any given night.

Tips to enjoy your trip to Iceland in April

April is a month of transformation and change. To enjoy your trip to Iceland to the fullest, it’s critical that you prepare for all kinds of weather.

• Rely on the Icelandic Met Office for up-to-date forecasts. The National Weather Agency is the most reliable source of weather forecasts in Iceland. It should be your best friend no matter what you’re doing in Iceland.
  
  

• Check road.is for information on road conditions. In Iceland, changing weather can affect the roads and driving conditions. If you’re driving yourself, use the website of the Iceland Road and Coastal Administration to check whether the roads are open. In April, many minor roads can still be blocked with snow.
  
  

• Use Aurora Forecast for northern lights conditions. Another key resource for your trip to Iceland is AuroraForecast.is. It will give you information on cloud cover and solar activity so you can find the best spots for your northern lights hunt.
  
  

• Don’t leave your winter clothes at home. In April, you’ll still need your waterproof jacket, your warm layers, and your sturdy shoes. Still, as it will get warmer throughout the month, you might find yourself just wearing a T-shirt!

A final word of advice: book your accommodation and any activities in advance. It’s particularly true if you’re travelling at Easter.

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

Days are getting longer, spring flowers are in full bloom, and there’s still a chance for you to see the northern lights. Visit Iceland in April, and you’ll see the best of both summer and winter.

At Berjaya, we’re committed to creating an unforgettable experience for all our guests—whether in our hotels, restaurants, or spas. Explore our range and book your trip.

FAQ

Is April a good time to visit Iceland?

April may be one of the best times of year to visit Iceland. It’s getting warmer, the sun is shining, and the landscapes are blooming with colour. Plus, you still have the chance to see the northern lights, and you’ve got a wide range of cultural events to enjoy.

What’s Iceland’s weather like in April?

April is a moment of transition between winter and summer. While temperatures are on the rise, there can still be snow. And while it will likely stay pretty cold, April is one of the drier and sunnier months of the year.

What to do in Iceland in April?

There’s lots you can do in Iceland in April. Take your pick:

• Visit an Icelandic spa
• Tour the Ring Road
• Visit music festivals and cultural events
• Glimpse the Northern Lights
• Go on a whale-watching tour

Can you see the northern lights in Iceland in April?

April is at the very end of the northern lights season in Iceland. But the conditions are often some of the best of the year. You’ll have a good chance of clear skies, as well as dark enough nights to enjoy the display at its best.

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

Be prepared for all kinds of weather, from snow storms to warm temperatures. Waterproofs are a good idea (they always are in Iceland!), but you may find that in the sunshine, it’s warm enough to just be in a T-shirt.

Is it common to experience rain in April in Iceland?

There’s a good chance that you’ll experience a bit of rain in April in Iceland. In Reykjavík, there are, on average, 12 precipitation days across the month. That said, overall, April is one of the drier months of the year.

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

If you’re travelling in Iceland, always stay up to date on the weather forecast. There’s still a chance of snow storms, ice, and high winds throughout the month. If you’re not comfortable driving in winter conditions, you may want to consider joining a guided tour instead.

Can I go glacier hiking in Iceland in April?

With a good chance of sunshine and warmer temperatures, April is a good time to get out of the city and go on an outdoor adventure.

Glacier hiking is a great option. It gives you a very special experience of a unique landscape, with views across the icy expanse.

Just be aware, please only walk on glaciers with a local guide. Without the right experience, know-how, and equipment, it can be extremely dangerous.

Is April a good time for whale watching in Iceland?

The summer tends to be the best time to see whales in Iceland. In this season, from about April, around 20 species of whale come to Icelandic waters to feed.

So, April is a great time for whale watching in Iceland!

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

While the spring is nearly here, in April, Iceland can still experience snow and low temperatures. Inevitably, this can affect road conditions.

If you’re intending to drive in Iceland on your visit in April, use the website road.is to stay up to date on road conditions. It will show you whether any roads are closed, for instance.

It needs to be said: if you’re not comfortable driving in potentially wintry conditions, you should consider joining a guided tour instead.

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

With a good chance of clear and dry weather, April is a great month to head outdoors in Iceland. Glacier hiking is the perfect activity for this month, while a visit to Iceland’s iconic hot springs is a great idea at all times of year.

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

Your best resource for up to date information on weather forecasts in Iceland is the Icelandic Met Office. If you’re intending to drive, visit road.is for live information on road conditions.