Reykjavík Weather in October
October in Reykjavík brings low temperatures, with highs of 8°C (46°F) and nights dropping to 2°C (36°F). Rainfall is on the higher side this month, averaging around 122 mm (4.8 in), so keep a rain jacket handy.
Rainfall in Reykjavík in October
Records from the past 30 years suggest around 19 days of rain, with 122 mm (4.8 in) average for the month. Expect frequent rainfall this month, and not just light drizzle. When it rains, it tends to come down hard.
Temperature in Reykjavík in October
In October, Reykjavík sees low temperatures, with highs of 8°C (46°F). Nights drop to around 2°C (36°F). Expect a cold feel throughout the day, not just in the mornings and evenings. Warm layers are essential. With lows around 2°C (36°F), nights are cold. The upside is that cool, crisp nights are often the best for a deep sleep.
Sunshine in Reykjavík in October
The area experiences limited sunny days, amounting to roughly 92 hours of sunshine. This makes it perfect for those who lean towards cooler, cloudier settings rather than intense sunlit days.
Wind Speed in Reykjavík in October
Wind speeds average 5 m/s (10 knots) during October. At this speed, gentle to moderate breezes make small trees sway and the wind creates whitecaps on water bodies. Daily variations range from moderate winds to stronger breezes, creating excellent conditions for sailing, kite flying and wind sports.
Average water temperature in October
With water temperatures around 9°C (48°F), swimming isn't really an option for most visitors. The cold sets in quickly and a wetsuit won't fully solve it.October in Reykjavík has its charm. However, if you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather, our weather planner can help you explore other destinations in the world.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Iceland, check out our Reykjavík's climate page.
Reykjavík Temperature in October
Min Temperature
2°C (36°F)
Max Temperature
8°C (46°F)
Water Temperature
9°C (48°F)
Chance of Rain
65%
Precipitation
122 mm (4.8 in)
Rainy days
19 days
Humidity
80%
Windspeed
5 m/s (10 knots)
Sunshine
92 hours
Percentage Sunshine
31%
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Reykjavík typically drop from around 9°C (48°F) at the start of October to approximately 6°C (43°F) by the end. Nights are cold, with lows typically ranging from 1°C (34°F) to 5°C (41°F).
Average temperatures in October
Daily Historical Precipitation
50-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in October
Historical weather for Reykjavík in October
Browse day-by-day weather records for Reykjavík spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Reykjavík historical weather extremes in October
Our historical data for Reykjavík spans 1976 to 2025, revealing these weather extremes.
- Reykjavík recorded its highest October temperature of 15°C (59°F) on October 18, 2001.
- Reykjavík experienced its chilliest October day on October 31, 1996, reaching only -2°C (28°F).
- The lowest overnight temperature recorded in October was -10°C (14°F) (October 30, 2025).
- The heaviest October precipitation occurred on October 21, 1977, when 81 mm (3.2 in) of precipitation fell.
Best Places in Iceland in October
Find out more about the weather in Iceland and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Iceland in October →
perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor
What to Wear in Reykjavík in October
Dress warmly and in layers for your trip to Reykjavík in October. A good base layer system works wonders. Start with good thermal underwear, add something warm like a fleece sweater, then finish with a waterproof jacket on top. Expect heavy rainfall, so bring good rain protection and waterproof bags. With water temperatures around 9°C (48°F), the water is quite cold for swimming. You can skip the swimwear unless you're particularly tough. You can probably leave your sunglasses at home, because sunny days are pretty rare this month.What To Do in Reykjavík in October
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Iceland, check out our Reykjavík's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed Water Temp
See the full Reykjavík climate overview or explore weather in Iceland.
