What's the Weather Like in Reykjavik in April
Iceland in April is much lighter than the previous months and therefore the days are longer, meaning more time for outdoor activities. April is an in-between month as it isn't winter, definitely not summer and whether or not it's spring is questionable. The Northern Lights season officially ends by the 15th of April, you can still see them but no more tours will be running. The good thing about April is the 'off-season' travel deals available.
Temperature
In April the daily average temperature sits around 3°C. During this month the temperature is rising, it doesn't get warm but it has heated up for Iceland. The lowest temperature expected is 0°C and the highest is 5°C.
Rain
April is a pretty wet month in Reykjavik, with over 20mm of rainfall predicted and 18 days of rainfall.
Sunshine
There is on average 5 hours of sunshine per day in April making outside activities enjoyable and much more bearable.
Sea Temperature
In April the sea temperature remains at 6°C. However, there is no need to swim in the sea as the wonderful, warm Blue Lagoon (37-39°C) is the ideal place to relax.
Snow
Snow can come as early as September and linger till May in Iceland, so expect snow in April but not as much as previous months. The winter road closures can make access to some areas difficult, so plan your journeys beforehand.
Daylight Hours
The approximate day length is 13 hours and 34 minutes in April, a lot longer than previous months. Sunrise is at 6.46am and sunset at 8.21pm. At the end of April Iceland will have gained 3 hours 12 minutes of daylight, meaning around 6 minutes and 30 seconds per day.
Hotels for Reykjavik in April
Fosshotel Baron Hotel
Historical 3* Fosshotel Baron Hotel is located in the heart of Reykjavik, close to the seafront and just a stone's throw away from popular shops and attractions. Simple single, twin and double rooms are desirable or Baron family and deluxe rooms are ideal for those who need more space. There is a bar, restaurant, laundry facilities, parking and WiFi at the hotel. Most would believe this hotel is more than 3* due to the fabulous location and pristine rooms.
4th Floor Hotel
The 4th Floor Hotel is a small, cozy family owned hotel nestled in the corner of the main shopping street in Reykjavik. For travelers who are on a budget the prices here are very reasonable. It's thoroughly modern inside and out, it's relatively stylish with colourful artwork in the bedrooms.
Being such a small hotel, it stays peaceful and quiet, ideal for families. Although the design is pretty plain and simple all the basic amenities are provided; WiFi, laundry, parking and a restaurant. Helpful staff are available till 10pm.
Hotel Fron
Newly built Hotel Fron is a charming apartment hotel based in a peaceful area, just a 1 minute walk away from Reykjavik's main shopping street. Around the district you will find the national theatre, restaurants, cafes, galleries and museums. Choose from hotel rooms and a wide range of apartments. The apartments are ideal for those wanting to relax inside and cook; pick a studio, studio deluxe, one bedroom, two bedroom or penthouse apartment.
All apartments are fitted with kitchen facilities, a refrigerator, a microwave oven and a cooking stove. They also have an en-suite bathroom, a minibar, a telephone, TV, wireless internet access, hairdryer and a safe to store valuables.
Restaurants and Bars for Reykjavik in April
Glo
Gló, located in Laugardalur and three other locations in Reykjavik is a vegetarian and vegan chain of restaurants with reasonably priced food, especially for Reykjavik. The range of healthy, filling options on the menu makes it suitable for anyone and everyone; visiting at lunchtime is recommended.
For those who enjoy a salad, the restaurant has a salad bar so you can conveniently help yourself and top your bowl up. Try the Raw Pad Thai for something different and delicious. After your bowl or main meal, order a coffee or dessert and soak up the Icelandic atmosphere in central Reykjavik.
Grillmarkadurinn
Grillmarkadurinn source local produce from farmers in Reykjavik to create a magic menu fusion of traditional and modern cuisine. Popular local products featuring on the menu are; lamb, beef, trout, quail, skyr and honey. Chefs design the menu according to the produce in season and then cook using fire, smoke, fire logs and coal.
The outcome is an exciting culinary treat where Icelandic heritage meets modern age. If you're a meat eater then here is the place to tuck into some juicy, succulent food. Pop to the lounge for a fresh, fruity cocktail.
The Laundromat Cafe
Start the weekend with brunch at The Laundromat Café, served on Saturday, Sunday and holidays from 9am-3pm. Indulge in the 'dirty brunch' for sausages, bacon, scrambled egg, butter fried potatoes, grilled tomatoes, french cheese, greek yogurt with honey and granola, pancakes, berries and home made chocolate butter. What more could you possibly need to start off the day?
There is also a vegetarian option and pancakes for those who don't fancy a huge breakfast. Later in the day the full menu starts consisting of burgers, sandwiches, salads, specials and a simple kids menu.
Things to Do in Reykjavik in April
The Sun Voyager Monument
The Sun Voyager Monument is a steel sculpture, designed by Jón Gunnar Árnason and situated next to Sæbraut road in Reykjavík; on the seashore close to the city centre. It has been described as a dreamboat, or an ode in the sunshine, but many people think it looks like a viking boat. When the boat was designed it was to symbolise a dream of hope, progress and freedom.
Atlantic Ocean
Take in the views of the Atlantic Ocean and beautiful scenery around the boat, it is worth visiting for this alone. The coastal paths surrounding the area are popular with cyclists and joggers. It also attracts photographers, especially when the sun is setting. For those who appreciate the beauty of nature, there is an epic view of Mount Esja here too, making it ideal for romantic walks.
Sumardagurinn Fyrsti
The first day of Summer (Sumardagurinn Fyrsti) is an annual public holiday in Iceland, usually held on Thursday the 19th of April. Although the weather isn't summer-like in April the Icelanders still celebrate with parades, sporting events and organised entertainment.
Easter Egg Hunts
Easter falls in April in Reykjavik and luckily most attractions, restaurants and museums stay open. Children will love the easter egg hunts organised by Elding (ferry company) on Viðey Island. All the family can get involved in this fun game in the countryside.
Langjokull Glacier
Langjökull Glacier is a remote man-made ice cave, one of Iceland's largest and most spectacular. The journey here takes a while on bus so you can always make it well worth the travel by stopping at the Deildartunguhver hot spring and Hraunfossar lava aterfall. Once you get to the amazing mighty Langjökull Glacier you will realise just how big it is; it's the most popular glacier for snowmobile trips, skiing and hiking. Nobody should travel alone here as there are too many cracks in the glacier.