Iceland Holidays in May

Warmth in Iceland in May is relative, but some towns hold heat better and receive more sheltered afternoons than others.

• Akureyri: Akureyri is set at the head of a long fjord that shelters the town from some of the harsher wind sweeping across the open country. In May the surrounding hills keep snow longer than the town itself, so you can walk the streets in comparatively mild conditions while seeing snow on the mountains. The town has a botanical garden and a short walk to the harbour. It is a sensible choice for travellers who want the mildest climate the north can offer this month.
• Reykjavik: Reykjavik is generally the mildest and most consistently walkable base in May, helped by its coastal position and the compact layout of the old town. Daytime conditions can feel comfortable with a good waterproof layer, and the harbour, museums and cafes give you places to be when the wind picks up. Because the city is small, you spend less time in transit and more time outdoors. It makes a practical anchor for a first-time visit this month. It is exactly the brief our Reykjavik holidays deals are built around.
• Husavik: Husavik sits on a bay on the north coast, where the sea breeze can be cool even when inland air feels warmer, so it is best approached with layers. The harbour is close to the town centre and tour boats begin to run through the season, which makes May a useful time to explore by water. Expect a quieter atmosphere than in July, with fewer visitors on the quayside. It suits travellers who prioritise a relaxed, small-harbour feel over mild temperatures.
• Vik: Vik is a village on the south coast, set on the Ring Road well over a hundred kilometres from the capital, and it is one of the wettest places in the country, so rain is a real possibility in May. The village is a practical overnight stop for drivers heading east or west. Temperatures are typically cool rather than warm, and the coastal wind can be strong. We would recommend it as a pause on a longer road trip rather than a destination chosen for warmth.
• Stykkisholmur: Stykkisholmur is a small harbour town on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula with a ferry link to the Westfjords and sheltered boat trips across the surrounding bay. The water moderates the air, so it can feel gentler than inland districts, though it remains cool. Ferry timetables in May are worth checking before you travel. It is a peaceful base for travellers who want a slower pace and access to the water.