A Local Guide to Visiting Iceland in May 2026

Planning a trip to Iceland in May 2026? Longer days, fewer crowds, and milder temperatures make May the best month in the off-season to visit the Land of Fire and Ice. It’s a less popular time to visit than the summer months, so you’ll have an easier time booking the best tours, hotels, and experiences.

Road conditions are more reliable in spring, so you can plan your ultimate Iceland road trip on the Ring Road or Golden Circle without worrying about heavy snow. Plus, nature is finally beginning to return to Iceland - puffin season is just starting, and dolphin/whale-watching season is in full swing.

Keep reading for a deep dive into visiting Iceland in May 2026, where we’ll walk you through the weather, what to pack, the best tours, seasonal events, local secrets, and much more!

Egill
Egill
Last updated: February 23, 2026

Weather in Iceland in May

Skógafoss waterfall in late May

May is late spring in Iceland, meaning milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. Despite summer being around the corner, temperatures are still cool in Iceland in May - daytime temperatures hover between 3°C (37°F) and 9°C (48°F) on average. That said, locals would consider these temperatures to be pretty pleasant!

You’ll get the best pre-summer weather in May, with a better chance of clear skies and sunshine. It rains an average of 9 to 16 days in May, less than in any other month in spring or autumn. Rain showers are usually brief, and it’s only likely to snow at night. While rain comes with the territory in Iceland, visiting in late May is your best bet if you want to avoid downpours. And we promise any snow will be gone by the time you wake up!

As May is the shoulder month between spring and summer, temperatures are a lot higher at the end of the month - something worth considering before booking a trip. Early May’s average temperature is 2°C (36°F), while late May's average is 11°C (53°F).

Daylight in Iceland in May

Beautiful Daylight seen fReykjavik, Iceland

One of the biggest advantages of visiting Iceland in May is the long daylight hours, thanks to its position just below the Arctic Circle. Reykjavík receives an impressive 19 hours of daylight on average in May, and even after sunset, it’s never truly dark.

In early May, the sun rises at around 5am and sets after 10pm, providing roughly 17 hours of daylight. By the end of May, you’ll be close to experiencing the “midnight sun”, where the sun doesn’t fully set again until early August.

Late May gets only 4 hours of darkness, with close to 20 hours of daylight. And the closer to the Arctic Circle you go in Iceland, the longer the days become - the northern town of Akureyri gets over 21 hours of daylight by May 31st!

Here’s what daylight looks like in Reykjavík in May:

May 1st:

  • Sunrise: 5:00am
  • Sunset: 9:51pm
  • Total daylight: 16 hours 51 minutes

May 31st:

  • Sunrise: 3:25am
  • Sunset: 11:27pm
  • Total daylight: 20 hours 1 minute

Can You See the Northern Lights in May?

Sunset on Iceland's South Coast

Due to the nearly constant daylight in May, you won’t see the Northern Lights. It’s too bright for the aurora, especially in late May when it's nearly the midnight sun. There are also no Northern Lights tours operating in May in Iceland.

The upside is that instead of seeing the Northern Lights, you’ll be able to enjoy Iceland in the sunshine! Thanks to nearly endless daylight hours, May is one of the best times to visit if you’re planning an outdoor adventure, like touring the Golden Circle or hiking along the South Coast.

If you do want to take a tour to see the Northern Lights, visit Iceland from mid-August to mid-April. You can maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights by joining a small-group Northern Lights tour, which will take you to some of the best spots to see this incredible natural phenomenon.

What to Pack for Iceland in May

What to Pack for Iceland in May

While it’s a shoulder month, May is often considered the first month of summer. You can get fantastic weather in May - May 2025 saw some of the best weather of the year in Reykjavík!

That said, the weather in Iceland is unpredictable, and that’s especially true in May. Weather forecasts can change in an instant; rain, wind, sleet, and sun are all possibilities on any given day. One thing we’ve learnt from living in Iceland is to dress in layers, layers, layers.

Three layers is the golden rule for Iceland. They’ll keep you warm when you’re out in the cold, and you can always take a layer off if you get too warm. Bring along a small bag on excursions so you have somewhere to stash your clothes.

Here’s a packing list to help you prepare for your trip to Iceland this May:

  • Thermals - the perfect base layer for Iceland. Thermals trap in body heat and have moisture-wicking properties, which transport sweat and moisture away from your skin to the thermal’s surface, keeping you dry.
  • T-shirts - A good base layer for exploring and touring Reykjavík when temperatures are at their mildest.
  • Fleeces, hoodies, sweaters - They’re not waterproof, but make an excellent middle layer for staying warm between your thermals and outer layer.
  • Water- and wind-proof jacket - An essential clothing item for Iceland, protecting you from strong winds and sudden downpours.
  • Woolly hat and scarf - Your head and neck are most likely to be exposed to the elements in Iceland, so bring along a hat and scarf to stay warm from head to toe!
  • Sturdy hiking boots - Whether you're strolling around Reykjavík or trekking through Vatnajökull National Park, it’s wise to wear a sturdy pair of warm hiking boots.
  • Swimsuit - Ensure you bring a swimsuit so you don’t miss out on Iceland’s world-famous hot springs!
  • Sunscreen - Even though it isn’t particularly warm in May, the Icelandic sun can be deceiving. Avoid sunburn and wear sunscreen!
  • Smart/party outfits - Reykjavík has a legendary nightlife scene with plenty of pubs and clubs, as well as some world-class restaurants you’ll want to visit, so bring along smart clothes for a night out.
  • Camera - From breaching whales to erupting volcanoes, Iceland has no shortage of incredible photo opportunities. A high-quality camera is recommended!

Pro tip: Pick up a traditional lopapeysa (Icelandic sweater) to keep warm in the local style!


Best Things to Do in Iceland in May 2026

May is arguably the most underrated time of year to visit Iceland. You may not be able to do classic winter activities like exploring ice caves or watching for the Northern Lights, but the longer days, lower tourism levels, and return of iconic wildlife make it an ideal time for outdoor adventures.

Read on for a breakdown of the best things to do in Iceland in May 2026, including relaxing getaways, out-of-this-world road trips, and urban adventures in Europe’s most northern capital, Reykjavík.


Road trip on the Ring Road or the Golden Circle

Geysir Geothermal Area - Golden Circle Iceland

With seemingly endless days and clearer skies, May is a great time to plan an Icelandic road trip. It’s also a less popular time for tourists, so the roads should be quieter than in summer. While the Ring Road and the Golden Circle are open year-round, they can occasionally close temporarily for snow. But you don’t need to worry about this happening in May.

If you’re looking for a long-distance road trip, take the Ring Road. Also known as Route 1, the Ring Road is the longest circular road in Europe at 1,322 km (821 mi). Hit the road in Reykjavík, and in theory, you could complete the Ring Road in 17 hours without stopping. Or take it easy and stop at landmarks along the way, completing it over a week or two. Highlights along the Ring Road include Skógafoss, Vík Black Sand Beach, Kirkjufell, and Vestrahorn.

Or, take a shorter road trip along the 250-km (155-mi) Golden Circle. Starting and ending in Reykjavík, the Golden Circle leads past three of Iceland’s most famous natural landmarks: the Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir geothermal area, and Þingvellir National Park.

One amazing way to see the Golden Circle is on our Golden Circle small group tour. As well as discovering the Golden Circle’s “big three” attractions, you’ll get key insights on the geology and history of the area from your expert guide, and experience the breathtaking Kerið Volcanic Crater, the finest crater lake in the country.


Hike across Iceland’s dramatic landscape

Kirkjufell mountain - from the Snæfellsnes peninsula tour

Photo from our Snæfellsnes peninsula tour.

As the snow melts and the landscape begins to turn green from grass shoots, many of Iceland’s best hiking spots become easier to access. Roads that stay closed all winter begin to open, and hiking becomes more bearable in the warmer weather.

Iceland has some wonderful hiking trails weaving across its volcanic landscape, taking in geological phenomena, volcanic craters, and spectacular waterfalls. Many of these routes can be found along the Ring Road or the Golden Circle, so consider combining your road trip with a few hiking pit-stops.

Note: Iceland’s F-roads, like the F249, which leads to the popular Þórsmörk Valley, are often closed until early summer (June) and sometimes inaccessible in May.

Some of Iceland’s best hikes in May include:

  • The Laugarfell Waterfall Circle - A circular trail in eastern Iceland takes in five sublime waterfalls, including the stunning Kirkjufoss. Consider booking a room at the Laugarfell mountain hut, which includes two hot springs with views of the snow-capped stratovolcano, Mt. Snaefell.
  • The Skógafoss Waterfall Way Hike - This hike certainly lives up to its name, with over a dozen waterfalls to admire along the route! The highlight is the 60 m (200 ft) high Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls. It’s located along the Ring Road in southern Iceland, around 150 km (93 mi) from Reykjavík.
  • Dettifoss, Selfoss, and Hafragilsfoss - This trio of waterfalls is located in northeastern Iceland and is easily accessible from the Ring Road. Dettifoss is extra special because it’s Europe’s second most powerful waterfall, after Switzerland’s Rhine Falls. The Jökulsárgljúfur canyon around the falls is also an incredible sight.

The South Coast is one of Iceland’s most stunning regions, with countless natural wonders to appreciate. Join our South Coast, Black Sand Beach & Glacier Hike tour to experience the highlights of this incredible coastline in just one day! The best part of this tour is hiking across the awesome Sólheimajökull glacier, using crampons and ice axes to explore its crevasses and unique ice formations!


Warm up in Iceland’s geothermal hot springs

Blue Lagoon, Iceland in May

Visiting a geothermal hot spring is a must for any Icelandic vacation, keeping you warm and relaxed while surrounded by Iceland’s dramatic landscape. Some of the most popular lagoons include:

  • The Blue Lagoon - Iceland’s most famous lagoon, known for its milky blue waters. It’s surrounded by black lava fields and is attached to a spa resort. It’s only a 20-minute drive from Iceland’s busiest airport, Keflavík Airport.
  • Sky Lagoon - The Blue Lagoon’s biggest rival is the most conveniently located of all the lagoons, a short walk from downtown Reykjavík. It’s perfect if you’re on a brief weekend getaway in Iceland and not leaving the capital.
  • Laugaras Lagoon - Located away from Reykjavík along the Golden Circle, Laugaras Lagoon provides a rural hot springs experience on the banks of the Hvítá River.
  • Hvammsvik Hot Springs - Uniquely located in the Hvalfjordur fjord near Reykjavík, this hot springs complex features eight hot springs with views of black-sand beaches and nearby mountains.

You’ll also find a few natural hot springs worth visiting in Iceland in May. The best part about these springs? They’re completely free! The best free natural hot springs usually accessible in May are:

  • Reykjadalur - Easily reachable from Reykjavík, this hot spring is located along a hiking trail - ideal if you fancy a relaxing soak after a long walk.
  • Hellulaug - The finest free hot springs in the Westfjords, offering exquisite sea views.

Combine Iceland’s ultimate road trip with a soak in geothermal waters on one of our Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, or Laugaras Lagoon combo tours. Prepare a full day of exploration and relaxation with a guided tour of the Golden Circle, followed by a dip in one of these world-famous lagoons!


Enjoy a night out and a bite to eat in Reykjavík

Beer tasting in the Reykjavik Food Walk

Reykjavík is a compact city with vibrant nightlife centered around Laugavegur Street. Some bars and clubs stay open until 6am, letting you party all night long. You’ll also find some of the best restaurants in Iceland on this historic cobbled street. May is the perfect month for eating out in Iceland - it’s cold enough to enjoy hearty winter dishes like meat soups, and warm enough to dine al fresco on delicious Icelandic hot dogs (pylsa). Learn more about iconic Icelandic hot dogs in our 2026 guide.

The Reykjavik Food Walk is the #1-rated food tour worldwide on TripAdvisor and the best way to sample Icelandic delicacies. During the 3-hour tour, you’ll try dishes from several of Reykjavík’s top restaurants and learn all about the history of Icelandic cuisine from a local foodie expert. Plus, you’ll learn lots of practical advice about Iceland to help you with the rest of your trip!


Go sightseeing in Reykjavík

Hallgrimskirkja chuch in Reykjavik

May is a fantastic time to go sightseeing in Reykjavík, as you won’t have to deal with as much snow, rain, or freezing temperatures. As a bonus, May is much quieter than the summer for tourists, so you won’t have to contend with crowds at major attractions. The city is highly walkable, making it easy to explore and see the top sights on foot - it takes only 10 to 15 minutes to walk across downtown Reykjavík.

Top attractions to add to your sightseeing tour include:

  • Reykjavik Art Museum - Houses Iceland’s largest art collection, including a permanent exhibit of works by celebrated Icelandic painter, Jóhannes S. Kjarval.
  • National Gallery of Iceland - Another popular art museum with over 15,000 works.
  • Hallgrímskirkja - This church is Iceland’s second tallest building and is famous for its unique architecture, which resembles the basalt columns found across the country’s landscape. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city!
  • Harpa - Iceland’s premier concert hall, Harpa, is another beautifully designed building with its colored glass panelling. It hosts the Iceland Symphony Orchestra.
  • Perlan - See the Northern Lights, walk through ice caves, and experience the Látrabjarg Cliffs at this remarkable interactive museum.

Best Tours to Take in Iceland in May 2026

With temperatures on the rise and snow disappearing, May is superb for tours in Iceland. But there are over 1,000 tours in Iceland, making it tricky to choose the best one. Luckily, we’ve tested and cherry-picked the best tours, ensuring you have the best possible experience on your trip to Iceland.

Here’s a quick look at the top tours to take in Iceland in May, with flawless reviews and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

The Reykjavik Food Walk

Sizzling Seafood Pan in the Reykjavik Food Walk

The #1-rated food tour worldwide on TripAdvisor, with over 17,000 five-star reviews, the Reykjavík Food Walk is a must-do. It’s one of the best ways to meet locals, explore the city, and immerse yourself in Icelandic culture. Plus, there’s no better way to sample Iceland’s varied and mouthwatering cuisine.

Some of our highlights from the Reykjavík Food Tour include:

  • Chatting with a friendly local guide and getting advice for your trip
  • Getting a classic Icelandic hot dog from a stand
  • Learning about the history and culture of Reykjavík
  • Tasting some of the more unusual Icelandic delicacies, like fermented shark
  • Finishing your meal with homemade ice cream

This 3-hour tour includes so many memorable moments - this is just the tip of the iceberg! It includes much more than a single meal, so turn up with an empty stomach and plan for a light dinner afterwards!

Book a spot on the Reykjavík Food Tour for this May here.


Puffin Tour from Reykjavik

May is the first month of the year when puffins begin to return to their nests in Iceland. The Puffin Tour from Reykjavík is one of the best (and most convenient) ways to see these adorable little seabirds. Get picked up for this hour-long tour from the Old Harbour in Reykjavík and board a ship with all the amenities you’ll need, including a caféteria.

The tour goes around Reykjavík’s harbor, where you’ll learn fun facts and tales about the area. You won’t just see puffins, but also many other seafaring birds, including skuas, razorbills, gannets, and more. You’ll also be treated to spectacular panoramas of Reykjavík!

You can book a place on the Puffin Tour from Reykjavík here.

Interested in seeing whales during your visit to Iceland? Check out the Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavík, which also leaves from the Old Harbour.


Horse-Riding Tour in Iceland

Horse riding tour - Iceland in May

As the weather is better, May is one of the best months of the year to take a horseback tour of the Icelandic countryside. On the best horse-riding tour in Iceland, you’ll meet and learn about iconic Icelandic horses, warm yourself with a complimentary hot beverage, and go on a beginner-friendly ride in Hafnarfjörður just 20 minutes outside Reykjavík.

Tour guides are super accommodating, with the tour available in several languages, including English, Swedish, and German. It’s also very convenient, with the tour picking you up and dropping you off at your hotel in Reykjavík. Our favorite thing about this tour is the ride across the lava field. To accommodate riders of all abilities, this tour lets you choose your speed (slow or fast).

Click here to learn more about our Horse-Riding Tour in Iceland.


The Golden Circle

Gullfoss Waterfall - Golden Circle Tour, Iceland in May

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s premier driving tour, and May is ideal for taking a spin around the Icelandic countryside. With fewer tourists on the road than in summer and little risk of snow blocking the way, you can explore this remarkable road without any worries.

The Golden Circle is 250 km (155 mi) long and starts and ends in Reykjavík. It revolves around three main landmarks:

  • Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park - One of Iceland’s most important historical locations and the site of the Alþing, Iceland’s parliament, which met annually from 930 CE until 1798 CE.
  • Geysir Geothermal Area - A geyser that dates back nearly 1,000 years. If you’re lucky, you might catch it launching boiling water 60 m (200 ft) into the air!
  • Gullfoss - Meaning “Golden Falls” in English, Gulfoss is a two-tiered waterfall and the most beautiful of its kind in Iceland.

We partner with several tours that follow the Golden Circle - check them out below!


South Coast, Black Sand Beach & Glacier Hike

Black sand beaches with basalt columns, one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland, and a stroll across an awesome glacier await you on this adventure tour. The South Coast is one of our favorite places in Iceland as it’s super varied - you’re certain to discover something new on every visit. And since it’s May, you might even spot some cute puffins!

The South Coast, Black Sand Beach & Glacier Hike is a day-long hike that lasts about 11 hours. All hiking equipment (except for boots) is provided, including helmets and crampons. Along the way, you’ll see:

  • Skógafoss waterfall - The first stop on this tour is the mighty Skógafoss, one of the largest in Iceland at 25 m (82 ft) wide and 60 m (200 ft) high.
  • Sólheimajökull glacier - Next, you’ll go on a guided hike up the impressive Sólheimajökull glacier, admiring crevasses and ice formations on the way.
  • Reynisfjara black sand beach - This beach is a must-see during a trip to Iceland; it’s flanked by the Reynisdrangar, 66 m (217 ft) high basalt sea stacks.
  • Seljalandsfoss waterfall - Finally, you’ll come to Seljalandsfoss. Here, you can walk behind the cascades into a cave for a unique look at the falls.

Secure a spot on the South Coast, Black Sand Beach & Glacier Hike here. Or check out the South Coast Adventure Tour if you’re looking for a more laid-back hike along Iceland’s South Coast!


2-Day South Coast, Ice Cave, Glacier Hike & Glacier Lagoon

Fancy seeing more of Iceland’s spectacular South Coast? From May 3rd, join the South Coast, Glacier Hike & Glacier Lagoon tour, a two-day excursion where you’ll uncover the best the South Coast has to offer. You’ll be treated to an overnight stay at a cozy traditional guesthouse - breakfast buffet included!

Highlights from day 1 include:

  • A short sightseeing road trip - Reykjavík to the South Coast along a mountain pass, taking in views of the charming towns of Hveragerdi and Selfoss, as well as impressive natural features like the Westman Islands.
  • Seljalandsfoss and Gljufrabui waterfalls - Having a guide means you won’t miss the hidden gems of the South Coast. You’ll trek to the secluded Gljufrabui waterfall, tucked away in a cave and often overlooked by visitors. Plus, you’ll pass Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can walk behind its cascading waters.
  • Skógafoss - Separating the Highlands from the coastal lowlands is the mighty Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s most powerful and famous waterfalls. It’s appeared in many films and TV shows, including Game of Thrones.
  • Sólheimajökull glacier hike - Thanks to your qualified guide, you’ll have the opportunity to hike across Sólheimajökull, utilizing harnesses, crampons, and ice axes to explore ice tunnels, crevasses, and otherworldly ice formations.
  • Reynisfjara black sand beach - Finally, you’ll end the day at Reynisfjara black sand beach, named one of the best non-tropical beaches worldwide by National Geographic. Marvel at unique geological features, like the Reynisdrangar basalt columns and the Dyrhólaey sea arch.

Highlights from day 2 include:

  • Diamond Beach and Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon - A must-see on the South Coast, the Diamond Beach is dramatic, with shards of icebergs from the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon washing up on its black volcanic sand. The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a short walk from Diamond Beach and features icebergs drifting away from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. It’s great for birdwatching, with skuas, gannets, puffins, and Arctic terns feeding in the area.
  • Hofskirkja church and lava fields - Hofskirkja is special as it was the final church in Iceland to be built in the traditional turf-covered style, blending into the surrounding lava fields.
  • Fjaðrárgljúfur - The meandering Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon is over 100 m (328 ft) deep and is a wonderful place to snap some pictures of Iceland’s remarkable landscape. You’ll spend about an hour hiking in this gorge.
  • Vík - Finally, you’ll end your two-day expedition in the picturesque village of Vík, which provides panoramas of Reynisdrangar and Dyrhólaey. You’ll return to Reykjavík around 9 pm.


Looking for more tours?

These tours are my personal suggestions to you, from one traveler to another. But don't forget to check out our other tours, too.
Pro tip: Book ahead to ensure that you get a spot on your desired date.

See All Tours

Events & Festivals in Iceland in May 2026

As Iceland begins to thaw, the event and festival season heats up, with plenty of opportunities for fun across Reykjavík and beyond. Let’s peek at two of the biggest events happening in Iceland in May 2026.

Labor Day (Verkalýðsdagurinn)

Labor Day parade in downtown Reykjavik

Labor Day (May 1st) is a big deal in Iceland - it’s a national holiday with parades, speeches, and organized marches. Equality and workers' rights are important issues to Icelanders, with the first protest march taking place in 1932.

Today, a brass band accompanies Labor Day marchers in Reykjavík, and you’ll hear speeches from labor leaders and trade unionists. These days, it's often as much a celebration of worker equality as it is a way to raise awareness of labor rights.

Note: Labor Day is a public holiday in Iceland, so many businesses will be closed. Businesses in downtown Reykjavík and tours nationwide are unaffected, so visitors are unlikely to notice any difference from a normal day.


Reykjavik Arts Festival

Iceland's National Gallery

At the other end of May is the Reykjavik Arts Festival. Between May 30th and June 14th, Reykjavik Arts Festival celebrates global artistry with exhibitions from some of the finest artists from around the world.

On May 30th, you can catch Icelandic icon Björk’s immersive multimedia exhibition, echolalalia, which is well worth checking out if you’re in town. On May 31st, there’s also Rót by the Handbendi Puppet Theatre, a unique and stirring puppet show about a young boy living in a small Icelandic town in 1995 who gets visited by his grandmother from Paraguay.

Driving in Iceland in May

Driving in Iceland - May, early summer

Is driving in Iceland in May possible for travelers? The answer is yes - most roads are clear of snow, but there are a few things to bear in mind.

Iceland’s F-roads, which are mountain roads within highland areas of Iceland, are impassable in May and are only open from June to September. You may also still encounter some snow on roads in northern Iceland and in the Highlands region. Road conditions in Iceland are great, so driving is relatively easy if you’re sticking to paved roads.

Here are a few tips for driving in Iceland in May:

  • If you’re uncomfortable with winter driving, taking a guided tour is a safer and more relaxed option
  • Rent a 4x4 if you’re leaving Reykjavík
  • Ensure your rental’s tires are properly winterized
  • Keep your low beams on at all times, regardless of the time of day (it’s a legal requirement in Iceland)
  • Watch out for sheep, horses, and reindeer on roads
  • Check weather forecasts and road conditions online before driving

Important resources: road.is, vedur.is, safetravel.is

Is May a Good Time to Visit Iceland?

Reykjavik in early May

Overall, May is the perfect time to visit if you:

  • Like milder temperatures
  • Enjoy fewer crowds
  • Plan on going hiking
  • Intend to roadtrip on the Golden Circle or Ring Road
  • Appreciate long daylight hours
  • Want lower prices for car rentals and bookings

May might not be the best time to visit Iceland if you:

  • Want to see the Northern Lights
  • Prefer wintery scenery and snow
  • Plan on exploring ice caves
  • Intend to travel into the Highlands, as many roads are closed

If you don’t mind missing the Northern Lights and don’t plan on a Highlands trip, May is an excellent time to visit Iceland.

Local Secrets (Because You Read This Far)

Reykjavik on a warm day in May

Searching for the inside scoop? Since you made it this far, we’ll let you in on some local knowledge, including the best spots for a late-night snack, the best coffee joints, and where to wet your whistle on a night out. Check out some of our personal favorite hidden gems in Reykjavík below!

  • Where to grab a coffee like a local - Iceland’s coffee scene is incredible, with Icelanders among Europe’s biggest coffee drinkers. If you’re looking to start your day right in Reykjavík like a true Icelander, check out top spots like Grái Kötturinn, Mokka Kaffi, Kaktus Espressobar, and Reykjavík Roasters.

    Learn more about the best coffee shops & bakeries in Reykjavík here.
  • Where to find the best cocktails - Cocktails are serious business in Iceland, with world-class bartenders mixing up some amazing concoctions at Reykjavík’s numerous bars and clubs. Just bear in mind cocktails can be pricey here! Take a seat at Jungle and sip on innovative mixes like the Bombshell (Espolón tequila, Aperol, rhubarb liquor, and Dolin Blanc vermouth), or head down to Bingo Drinkery for board games and their daily cocktail hour from 7:00pm to 9:00pm! Other popular options include Kokteilbarinn, Vedur, Kol, Skál!, and Röntgen Bar.
  • Where to find food after a night out - If you’ve just left a club or bar and you fancy a snack before heading back to your hotel, there are a few downtown spots where you can grab a bite. Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur serves up traditional hot dogs and is open past midnight all week. Or, enjoy a submarine-style sandwich from Hlöllabátar in Ingólfstorg, which closes at 5:30am on Friday and Saturday. Fancy some Middle Eastern fare? Check out Mandi, which closes at 5am on Friday and Saturday.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Iceland in May

Locals and visitors alike agree that May is often an overlooked time of year to visit Iceland. It falls through the gaps between the warmer summer months and the wintertime when travelers are on the hunt for the Northern Lights.

May is an excellent time to plan tours and experiences in Iceland - it’s less busy, so tours, hotels, and activity tickets tend to be cheaper. Plus, milder weather, less chance of rain, and longer daylight hours make it the perfect time for the Reykjavik Food Walk, hiking in Iceland’s vast wilderness, or roadtripping around the Golden Circle.

We look forward to welcoming you to Iceland! Feel free to reach out below if you have any questions!


Written by Adam Lee-Smith:

An English native currently living in Ireland, Adam has traveled extensively to all corners of Iceland, working closely with the Wake Up Reykjavik team to create insightful content that helps visitors experience the best that the Land of Fire and Ice has to offer.


Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is May a good time to visit Iceland?
    Yes, May is the best shoulder month to visit Iceland. The weather is warmer, the days are long, and you won't have to deal with as many crowds as during the summer (June to August). Driving around the country is easier, as there’s little snow on the main roads.
  • Is Iceland cold in May?
    May starts off a little chilly, but it gets progressively warmer as we approach summer. Average temperatures at the start of May are 2°C (36°F), with temperatures rising to 11°C (53°F) by May 31st.
  • How many hours of daylight are there in May?
    Daytime gets rapidly longer throughout May, with barely any true nighttime by the month’s end. At the start of May, Iceland gets just under 17 hours of daylight. By May 31st, Iceland’s daylight stretches to over 20 hours.
  • Is May a busy month to visit Iceland?
    No, May isn’t a busy time to visit Iceland. It’s a quieter shoulder month between seasons, which avoids the summer crowds and travelers searching for the Northern Lights. Popular attractions and sights can still be busy.
  • Can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland in May?
    No, it’s very unlikely - almost impossible to see the Northern Lights in Iceland in May. There’s practically no true nighttime in Iceland around this time of year, making it very difficult to see the aurora.
  • What is the best tour to do in Iceland in May?
    It really depends on your plans. If staying in Reykjavik for a few days; Consider doing the Reykjavik Food Walk on your first day in Reykjavik and 1-2 more nature sightseeing tours on your following days. For example, a Golden Circle, South Coast and/or some glacier tour.
  • Is it safe to drive in Iceland in May?
    Yes, it’s safe to drive in Iceland in May. Road conditions are good, as there’s very little snow on the roads. That said, F-roads in the Highlands region remain closed in May, and snow can still be on some roads in northern Iceland.
  • Can I pay using a card everywhere in Iceland?
    Yes, you can pay using a card practically everywhere in Iceland. It’s always a good idea to carry a small amount of Icelandic Króna in case of emergencies.

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