What is the weather in Iceland in December?

Author : Firefly Car Rental Iceland | Published On : 13 Oct 2025

December is the heart of winter in Iceland. Believe it or not, this is the snowiest, darkest month of the entire year. With over 20 inches of snow on average and yet, still almost 3 inches of rain, you can imagine that things get a little dicey when it comes to the weather.

Embrace the Chill

The cold is a part of the Icelandic experience in December. While it might be chilly, the frost-covered landscapes provide a unique, picturesque view that you won’t find during other times of the year.

What is the temperature in Iceland in December?

The average temperature in Iceland in December is around 32°F (0°C). Daytime highs reach about 37°F (3°C), while nighttime lows can drop to around 27°F (-3°C), but can plummet even further depending on the weather.

How many hours of daylight in Iceland in December?

Iceland daylight hours December are just four hours a day with the sun rising in Reykjavik at 11:30 am and setting between 3:30 pm (15:30). In general, December in Iceland have the shortest days of the year in Iceland.

Driving conditions will begin to be treacherous on some roads. It’s recommended to rent a 4×4 vehicle and to put snow chains on your tires if you plan on driving far.