Things To Do In Reykjavík In April
Visitors to Iceland in April will find a country shifting from winter to summer. The snow and dark skies finally give way to milder temperatures and longer days. In Reykjavík, April feels like a fresh start; locals celebrate the return of light and warmth.
With the harshness of winter fading and the summer crowds still weeks away, April is one of the best times to visit Reykjavík. You’ll enjoy easier travel, local festivals, and crisp spring air perfect for exploring.
Before diving into what to do, here’s what the weather in Reykjavík in April is like. Expect temperatures between 3°C and 10°C (37°F–50°F). You may still see some snow, but it rarely lasts. The days stretch from about 13 hours of daylight early in the month to nearly 17 hours by the end, a perfect balance between winter charm and spring brightness.
1. Celebrate Reykjavík’s First Day of Summer
The official change of season happens on sumardagurinn fyrsti, or the First Day of Summer, a public holiday that falls on the first Thursday after April 18th each year.
Icelanders celebrate with outdoor parades, local events, and gifts for children, often bikes, balls, or other summer toys. Watching these cheerful processions is one of the most authentic things to do in Reykjavík in April, offering a glimpse of Icelandic culture as it welcomes the warmer months.
April in Reykjavík often overlaps with the Easter season, a time when locals enjoy time off work and indulge in Iceland’s famous chocolate Easter eggs filled with candy and proverbs. While many stores close on public holidays, cafés and museums often remain open, making it a cozy time to explore before the First Day of Summer celebrations begin.
Read more about the best things to do in Reykjavik in the summer before you visit.
2. Walk Öskjuhlíð Hill by Perlan’s Birch and Lupins
A striking sight in Reykjavík in April is the blooming carpet of purple lupins covering Öskjuhlíð Hill, where Perlan sits proudly. This green space is one of the city’s few forests, filled with birch and pine trees planted after World War II.
Start your walk near Reykjavík University and wind your way up past the trees and remnants of old British fortifications. The path rewards you with city views and fresh air, a favorite local pastime when the weather in Reykjavík in April turns mild.
When you reach Perlan, stop by the fifth-floor café for Icelandic coffee and cake. Don’t miss the Perlan observation deck, where you can enjoy one of the best panoramic views of Reykjavík and the surrounding mountains.
3. Explore Reykjavík’s DesignMarch Festival
Another highlight of April in Reykjavík is DesignMarch, the city’s annual celebration of creativity and design. The festival showcases innovation across fashion, furniture, architecture, food, and art, with events, exhibitions, and workshops held throughout the capital.
DesignMarch has become a cornerstone of Iceland’s cultural calendar, drawing both local talent and international designers each spring. Whether you’re into architecture, sustainability, or style, exploring DesignMarch events is one of the most inspiring things to do in Reykjavík in April, offering a glimpse into the city’s modern and artistic side.
4. Enjoy the Children’s Culture Festival in Reykjavík
If you’re traveling with family, the Children’s Culture Festival is a must-see spring event in Reykjavík. Held every April, it celebrates creativity by children rather than for them, encouraging young people to express themselves through art, music, and performance.
Workshops and shows take place across the city, in schools, libraries, and museums, covering everything from theater and circus arts to dance and design. It’s a lively, hands-on way to experience Icelandic culture while letting kids join the fun of Reykjavík’s spring festivities.
5. Hike Mount Esja: Spring Trails Near Reykjavík
As snow recedes and Reykjavík weather in April improves, hiking season returns. Many trails reopen, including the popular Mount Esja, just 40 minutes from downtown.
Seen across the bay from landmarks like Sólfar or Harpa, Esja is Reykjavík’s signature mountain. The trail is well-marked and offers breathtaking views of Faxaflói Bay. Hiking in Iceland in April is great, with little to no ice and crisp air. Pack a jacket, as temperatures can shift quickly, but sunshine often rewards the climb. Read more about when the sunrises and sets in Reykjavik before you start your hike.
5. Visit Iceland’s Glaciers and Perlan’s Ice Exhibition
With warmer conditions, driving in Iceland in April becomes safer, opening up day trips along the ring road. One of the best routes from Reykjavík leads south to Sólheimajökull, part of the larger Mýrdalsjökull glacier.
Here, visitors can try guided glacier hikes or thrilling snowmobile tours. These tours usually provide gear, helmets, and instruction, making it a safe way to experience Iceland’s icy wilderness.
Sadly, these glaciers are shrinking due to climate change. To learn more about their history, visit Perlan’s Glacier and Ice Cave Exhibition, where you can explore interactive displays about Iceland’s disappearing ice caps, including the story of Okjökull, the first glacier lost to global warming.
FAQ: Reykjavík in April
Is April a good time to visit Reykjavík?
Yes, April is one of the best times to visit Reykjavík. The city awakens after winter, and travel is easier before summer crowds arrive. Nature blooms, and daylight stretches well into the evening, creating the perfect setting for sightseeing and photography.
Can you see the Northern Lights in Reykjavík in April?
It’s possible to see the northern lights in April, especially in early April. You need solar activity, clear skies, and darkness to view the aurora. At the start of the month, Reykjavík still has long nights, but by the end, the daylight extends to nearly 17 hours. For your best chance, keep an eye on the Aurora forecast to best predict when to see them.
What’s the weather like in Reykjavík in April?
The average temperature in Reykjavík in April ranges between 3°C and 10°C (37°F–50°F). You can expect mild days, occasional showers, and rare snow flurries. April weather in Reykjavík, Iceland, is unpredictable; locals often say you can experience all four seasons in a single day.
Is it too cold to visit Reykjavík in April?
Not at all. While you’ll still need a warm jacket, the temperature in Reykjavík in April is comfortable compared to winter. Pack layers, gloves, and waterproof shoes for outdoor activities, and you’ll be perfectly prepared.
How many daylight hours does Reykjavík get in April?
At the start of April, Reykjavík enjoys around 13 hours of daylight. By the end of the month, that extends to nearly 17 hours. This long daylight window gives travelers plenty of time for exploring and photography.
Can you see the Northern Lights in Reykjavík in April?
Yes, but only in early April. You’ll need clear skies, solar activity, and minimal light pollution. As daylight increases toward the end of the month, the Northern Lights season winds down. For the best chance, book a Northern Lights tour or head outside the city lights during the first half of April.
What to wear in Reykjavík in April?
Layering is key. Pack a waterproof jacket, warm base layers, gloves, a hat, and sturdy shoes. Icelanders often switch to lighter coats by mid-April but keep their scarves handy. You’ll want warm clothes for outdoor adventures and lighter layers for restaurants or Perlan’s exhibitions.
