Guide to Reykjavík in November: Weather, Festivals & Winter Vibes

Visiting Reykjavík in November gives you an early taste of Icelandic winter. The days are getting shorter, temperatures are dropping, and the possibility of snow adds a seasonal feel to the city. November also brings long evenings that are ideal for searching for the Northern Lights.

If you don’t mind colder weather and shorter days, November offers plenty of reasons to bundle up and explore.

What’s Reykjavík Like in November?

November welcomes early winter in Reykjavík. You may experience crisp, clear days, but rain, sleet, snow, and strong winds are also possible. The weather can change quickly, sometimes within the same day.

As the nights grow longer, Reykjavík takes on a cozy atmosphere. Cafés provide a warm break between attractions, while geothermal pools remain popular regardless of the weather. Museums, restaurants, shops, and nightlife also give you plenty to do after dark.

Crowds are generally smaller than during the busy summer in Reykjavík. However, events such as Iceland Airwaves can bring extra activity to the city.

Toward the end of November, Christmas lights and decorations begin appearing around Reykjavík and nearby communities. It’s a nice time to experience the first signs of Iceland’s holiday season.

Weather and Daylight in Reykjavík in November

The weather in Iceland in November is cold and unpredictable. Rain, wind, sleet, and snow are all possible, sometimes within the same day. Here’s a quick look at what to expect in Reykjavík:

• Temperature: Average temperatures are around 1–5°C (34–41°F), with colder conditions possible at night.
• Rain: November is a wet month, so expect regular rainfall and bring waterproof outer layers.
• Snow: Snow is possible throughout November, but Reykjavík isn’t necessarily covered in snow all month.
• Daylight: Reykjavík gets around eight hours of daylight in early November. By the end of the month, this drops to roughly five hours.

Make the most of daylight for outdoor sightseeing, then save museums, restaurants, and geothermal pools for later. If you plan on driving in Iceland, always check current road and weather conditions before heading out, especially outside Reykjavík.

Top 13 Things to Do in Reykjavík in November

Reykjavík offers plenty to do as winter begins to settle in. From Northern Lights hunting to attending music festivals, here are the best things to do in Reykjavík in November.

1. Go Northern Lights hunting

November is a great time to catch the Northern Lights in Iceland. Long nights provide plenty of darkness, although you still need clear skies and sufficient aurora activity. You may spot the aurora from Reykjavík when conditions are favorable. For darker surroundings, head toward places away from the brightest city lights, such as Grótta Lighthouse and Öskjuhlíð Hill.

Another option is joining a Northern Lights tour from Reykjavík. Expert guides can travel in search of clearer skies and suitable viewing conditions. If you stay at Center Hotels Skjaldbreið, you can also request an aurora wake-up call. That way, you won't have to stay awake waiting for a possible sighting.

Note: The aurora is a natural phenomenon, so sightings are never guaranteed. The good news is that many local tour operators offer a free retry if you don’t see the Northern Lights.

2. Warm up in Reykjavík's geothermal pools

Few things feel better on a cold November day than stepping into a warm geothermal pool or hot spring. Reykjavík has several public pools where locals swim, socialize, and relax in outdoor hot tubs. Yes, even more so in winter.

Whether you prefer a local swimming pool or a relaxing spa, here are a few options to consider:

• Sundhöllin: A convenient public pool near the city center with outdoor hot tubs.
• Vesturbæjarlaug: A popular neighborhood pool known for its relaxed atmosphere and geothermal hot tubs.
• Sky Lagoon: One of the best spas in Reykjavík overlooking the North Atlantic, just outside the city center.
• Miðgarður Spa: Features an open-air hot tub where you might even spot the Northern Lights when conditions are right.
• Arnarhvoll Spa: A more private option reserved for Center Hotels Arnarhvoll guests, with a hot tub, sauna, and relaxation facilities.

3. Explore Reykjavík's museums

Visiting museums is one of the best rainy-day activities in Reykjavík [1] . You can choose between traditional museums and more interactive attractions, depending on what interests you.

For history, culture, and art, consider the National Museum of Iceland, Reykjavík City Museum, or Reykjavík Art Museum. For something more interactive, try Perlan, Whales of Iceland, or the Lava Show Reykjavík.

Tip: If you plan to visit several museums, consider getting a Reykjavík City Card. It includes admission to many museums in Reykjavík, unlimited city bus travel, and access to Reykjavík's public swimming pools.

4. See Hallgrímskirkja and central Reykjavík

Cold weather doesn't mean you have to stay all day indoors. Bundle up and explore Reykjavík on foot when conditions are comfortable. If snow arrives, the city's colorful streets and landmarks can look even more striking under a fresh white layer. It’s one of the best free things to do in Reykjavík , regardless of the weather or season.

Start at Hallgrímskirkja, one of the city's best-known landmarks. Then walk down Skólavörðustígur toward the center. Continue toward Tjörnin Pond and Reykjavík City Hall before heading to the waterfront to see Harpa and the Sun Voyager.

Shorter daylight hours make it worth starting earlier if you want to see several outdoor landmarks before dark.

5. Visit local shops along Laugavegur street

Laugavegur is Reykjavík's main shopping street and an easy place to spend a November afternoon. You'll find Icelandic design stores, clothing shops, bookstores, souvenir stores, and plenty of places to stop for food. Skólavörðustígur and the surrounding streets are also worth exploring for smaller independent shops.

By late November, Christmas decorations begin adding more color to the shopping streets. It's also a good opportunity to look for Icelandic gifts before the December rush begins.

6. Cozy up in local cafes and bakeries

Cold temperatures and shorter days make November a great time to explore Reykjavík's café scene. You'll find plenty of cozy cafés and bakeries around Reykjavík city center, so a warm drink is never far away.  Stop for coffee or hot chocolate and try a fresh cinnamon bun, pastry, or slice of cake. For something more traditional, look for kleinur (Icelandic twisted doughnut) or rúgbrauð (geothermally-baked rye bread).

A café stop also fits easily between sightseeing. Warm up after a walk around the city, take a break while shopping, or simply settle in and watch the November rain outside.

7. Try warm Icelandic foods

Cold November weather is a good reason to try some of Iceland's heartier comfort foods. Start with traditional lamb soup (kjötsúpa) or a warming bowl of fish soup (fiskisúpa). You can also try Icelandic lamb, fermented shark (hákarl), or the famous Icelandic hot dog at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur.

For a sit-down meal, Jörgensen Kitchen & Bar serves Icelandic-inspired dishes in central Reykjavík. Near the Old Harbor, Grandi Restaurant is another option for a warm meal after exploring the waterfront.

If you want to sample several local flavors at once, consider joining a Reykjavík food lovers tour. These guided walks combine tastings at different stops with stories about Icelandic food and culture.

8. Enjoy Reykjavík’s nightlife scene

The early sunsets don’t mean your day has to end early. Reykjavík has an active nightlife scene centered largely around Laugavegur and nearby streets. Weekends are generally the busiest, with pubs, clubs, and live music venues in Reykjavík staying lively into the night.

For a more laid-back evening, head to SKY Lounge & Bar for cocktails and panoramic views over Reykjavík. Another option is Þingholt Lounge & Bar, where you can enjoy a drink in a cozy setting.

If nightlife is a priority, Center Hotels Laugavegur puts you right on the city's main shopping and nightlife street. It’s within walking distance of many bars and venues and is also home to Lóa Matur & Vín.

9. Witness the Imagine Peace Tower light up

November is a great time to see the Imagine Peace Tower light up Reykjavík's night sky. Created by Yoko Ono in memory of John Lennon, the artwork projects a powerful beam of light from Viðey Island. Throughout November, it’s illuminated every evening from 19:00 to midnight. Look toward Viðey from Reykjavík's waterfront to spot the beam shining above the city.

10. Experience the Iceland Airwaves Music Festival

November is an exciting time for Reykjavík's music scene, thanks to Iceland Airwaves. The annual music festival brings Icelandic and international artists to venues across the capital. Expect everything from established acts to emerging musicians, with performances held at concert halls, bars, and art galleries around Reykjavík .

Iceland Airwaves usually takes place in early November, but dates vary each year. Check the festival schedule when planning your trip.

11. Discover Icelandic literature at a book festival

Music isn't the only cultural reason to visit Reykjavík in November. The city has a strong literary tradition, and the weeks leading into Christmas are particularly important for Icelandic publishing. New books traditionally arrive in large numbers before the holidays as part of the country's famous Christmas book season, Jólabókaflóðið.

Depending on your travel dates, you may also find book fairs, readings, author events, and other literary gatherings. Look out for two major literary events during the month. The Reykjavík Book Fair showcases new releases and Icelandic authors. Meanwhile, Iceland Noir brings together writers and readers for a festival centered on crime fiction

12. Get an early taste of Christmas in Hafnarfjörður

If you're visiting in late November, head to nearby Hafnarfjörður for an early taste of Christmas in Reykjavík. The town center transforms into a festive Christmas Village, complete with lights, decorations, and a seasonal market. Browse stalls selling Icelandic crafts and gifts, pick up festive treats, and warm up with a hot drink. Live entertainment and family-friendly activities also take place throughout the season.

13. Book winter activities from Reykjavík

Reykjavík makes a convenient starting point for exploring more of Iceland during November.

The Golden Circle is one of the easiest day trips, taking you to Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. South Coast tours can also include partially frozen waterfalls, snow-covered black sand beaches, and glaciers. It’s also one of the best times to enjoy winter activities from Reykjavík like ice caving, glacier hiking, and snowmobiling.

Availability depends on weather and seasonal conditions. Guided day tours from Reykjavík can be especially convenient in November if you don’t feel comfortable driving during winter.

Experience a Wintry Reykjavík in November

Reykjavík in November brings together the first signs of winter and a busy cultural scene. Shorter days leave more time for geothermal pools, cafés, restaurants, live music, and evenings under dark skies. You can spend the daylight exploring Reykjavík, then search for the aurora or settle into the city's nightlife after dark. Festivals and the first Christmas events add even more reasons to visit later in the month.

Stay flexible with the weather, pack warm layers, and make the most of both the city's indoor and outdoor scenes.

FAQs

Is November a good time to go to Iceland?

Yes, November can be a good time to visit Iceland if you want winter scenery and Northern Lights opportunities. Be prepared for cold and unpredictable weather.

Does it snow in Reykjavík in November?

Yes, snow is possible in Reykjavík in November. However, permanent snow cover isn’t guaranteed, and you may experience rain, sleet, wind, and clear weather during the same trip.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Reykjavík in November?

Yes, November's long, dark nights provide good opportunities to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavík. Clear skies and strong aurora activity are still necessary, so sightings cannot be guaranteed.

What to wear in Iceland in November?

Dress in warm, waterproof layers when visiting Iceland in November. A waterproof jacket and pants, insulating mid-layer, thermal base layers, sturdy shoes, gloves, a hat, and warm socks are useful.

What is the temperature in Reykjavík in November?

The average temperature in Reykjavík in November is around 2°C (36°F). Average highs reach about 5°C (41°F), while lows are around 1°C (34°F).

What time does it go dark in Iceland in November?

In Reykjavík, sunset moves from around 17:00 in early November to roughly 15:50 by the end of the month.

Is Iceland too cold in November?

Not necessarily. November is cold, but Reykjavík's temperatures are relatively moderate for its northern location. With warm layers, waterproof outerwear, and flexible plans, you can comfortably explore the city at this time of year.