What's the Weather Like in Reykjavik in November
During the winter the land of fire and ice is a very magical place. The unspoiled beauty of bountiful glaciers, wonderful waterfalls, running rivers and large glorious glacier lagoons speckle Iceland's unique terrain. November is cold so wrap up warm to enjoy the stunning city.
Temperature
In November the daily average temperature sits around 3°C. The lowest temperature expected is 0°C and the highest is 5°C.
Rain
November expects around 30mm of rainfall and 20 days of rainfall.
Sunshine
There is on average 1 hours of sunshine per day in November.
Sea Temperature
In November the sea temperature is on average 7°C. However, there is no need to swim in the sea as the Blue Lagoon is 37-39°C, unless you want to of course.
Weather warnings
There could well be storms in Winter (November - March) and these could be with or without snow. The weather in Iceland is very changeable and the snow or rain could accompany storms depending on how bad the weather is. Definitely don't drive during a storm, they have previously been strong enough to blow cars off the road. However, you will still be able to enjoy Reykjavik during a storm, here are some ideas.
Daylight Hours
In the middle of the month, on the 15th of November the sunrises at 09:58 and sets at 16:26, meaning the length of the day is just 6 hours and 24 minutes.
Hotels for Reykjavik in November
Hotel Borg
Hotel Borg overlooking the stunning Austurvöllur square in the heart of Reykjavik has become a landmark of Reykjavik. Ideal for reaching restaurants, businesses, galleries and shops, Borg is a convenient place to stay. Hosting 99 rooms and suites with beautiful Art Deco the hotel is popular among tourists. It is just 45km from the international airport.
You will have the choice of single, double, superior or deluxe rooms. For those looking for something a little more luxurious, the suites and tower suites are a plush option. An added bonus is the Borg Spa, this alone may persuade you to book your stay here; it offers a hot tub, steam bath, sauna, relaxation area, fitness room and amazing range of treatments.
Alba Guesthouse
Alba Guesthouse is something different to a hotel. A 10 room family run guesthouse, located in the old part of Reykjavik. The friendly owners will make you feel comfortable and ensure you have everything for a perfect stay in Iceland. Although, it's located in the Old area it's conveniently in walking distance of in Flybus terminal and many shops and restaurants. Keep an eye out for the Northern Lights if you have a balcony room at Alba. An advantage is breakfast's always included but you won't have access to the kitchen unfortunately.
Lava Hostel
Travelers highly rate Lava Hostel with its clean, comfortable, spacious rooms. Based in the capital area and only 10 minutes drive to the centre of Reykjavik you will most likely need a car if you're planning to stay here. Run by scouts, the accomodation provides free WiFi, a kitchen and dining area, free parking, luggage storage and is non-smoking. Check in will be between 3pm - 10pm and check out at 9am - 11am.
Restaurants and Bars for Reykjavik in November
Bergsson Mathus
If you're planning on treating yourself to a lie in and starting the day slightly later, head to Bergsson Mathús for a fulling, delicious brunch. They have a range of English Breakfast style food and the eggs with smoked salmon on sour dough is one of the favourites. The menu doesn't have a huge range of options but it's all about the quality here. The price is affordable and you're basically paying for the relaxing atmosphere too. You'll be set for the day after brunch here. Head back for lunch another day.
Durum
Durum, a fairly new restaurant located in downtown Reykjavik. You don't have to sit in here, you can also take away. The small, comfortable restaurant put an emphasis on simple but very tasty dishes. Like Bergsson, it's very affordable and certainly won't break the bank if you're going here for lunch. The breakfast special is recommended and the seafood is particularly tasty.
Resto
Resto are renowned for their well-priced seafood, something you have to try if you're in Reykjavik. The Scandinavian, European style restaurant comes out very highly rated due to the wonderful taste of the food, chilled-out environment and presentation of dishes. It's open Sunday-Thursday 5.30pm - 10pm and Friday to Saturday 5.30pm - 10.30pm, leaving you time to visit a bar after if you're in the mood.
Things to Do Reykjavik in November
Iceland Airwaves Music Festival
Iceland Airwaves Music Festival is an annual music festival in Reykjavik, held over four days in November. It's usually held on a Wednesday - Saturday. The main focus of the festival is showcasing new music, international and Icelandic. Book your ticket inadvance if you're hoping to attend as they sell out fast. Amazingly, it will be the 21st festival this year (2018). Don't miss out on the biggest celebration of music in Iceland. The music festival is very much about food as well as music; sample the beer, try Icelandic cuisine and relax in the hot pools while making new friends.
Silfra Fissure
Cross off a once in a lifetime experience at Silfra Fissure, where you can dive in the clearest and purest water on earth. The diving site is located at the heart of Thingvellir National Park. Even more exciting is the fact you can swim between the techtonic plates of North America and Europe. Tick this one off the bucket list and make memories you'll never forget. When you're under water you can actually see 100m infront of you which is extraordinary. The water is from 2-4 degrees all year round, so it's cold but very worth every minute.
Lava Tunnel
Explore the magnificent Lava Tunnel Raufarhólshellir, it's one of the best-know lava tubes in Iceland and also one of the longest. It's located just 30 minutes from Reykjavik and can easily be accessed all year round. Take up the great opportunity to go inside and witness the inner workings of a volcanic eruption. In the winter you'll see the ice sculptures forming in the entrance of the cave, making it even more breathtaking to see.
