Iceland

Forget the Heat, This Summer’s from Another Planet

Warm Heart, Cold Edges

Warm Heart, Cold Edges

Why Iceland in Summer

Ever dreamed of a summer where the sun never sets? Welcome to Iceland, where from June to mid-August the nights stay light, the landscapes come alive, and every moment feels like something out of a movie. This is the season of the midnight sun, endless golden hours, and surreal adventures.

With daytime temperatures around 20°C, accessible highlands, and full transport services, summer is the best time to explore Iceland without limits. From the natural hot springs of Landmannalaugar to the epic cliffs of Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and the remote Westfjords that only open in summer — the country becomes your personal playground.

Watch puffins nest on rocky cliffs, spot whales off the coast, or see seals sunbathe on black sand beaches. Wildflowers bloom, the air smells of freedom, and even the roads invite you to wander. Just beware of the infamous midges around Lake Mývatn — it’s called "midge lake" for a reason.

Iceland in summer isn’t just a trip, it’s a state of mind. It’s road trips at 2 a.m. under a glowing sky, natural hot tubs with mountain views, and the kind of silence that hits deep. If you’re chasing a summer that’s raw, wild, and unlike anything you’ve known — this is it.

What to Do in Reykjavík

What to Do in Reykjavík

Culture, Coolness, and Nordic Relaxation

Reykjavík isn’t just a stop: it’s a vibe. The northernmost capital in the world is small, yet packed with energy, creativity, and style. From colorful murals, concept stores, cozy cafés, and live music venues, Reykjavík in the summer is an open-air festival. And with the sun never fully setting, the city doesn’t sleep.

Start your day with a stroll along the harbor, stopping by the modern Harpa Concert Hall or the Solfar (Sun Voyager) sculpture, then get lost in Laugavegur, the heart of Reykjavík’s indie shopping scene and Icelandic design. Don’t miss the view from the top of Hallgrímskirkja, Reykjavík’s iconic church, which towers over the city like a rocket ready for lift-off. And if you’re in need of a refreshing break, dip into the warm waters of the Sky Lagoon, a geothermal spa with ocean views just a short distance from downtown.

Reykjavík is perfect for those seeking culture, relaxation, and nightlife with a Nordic twist. With museums, craft beers, and live music, every evening can turn into a mini festival.

It’s the ideal starting point before you lose yourself in the island’s wild landscapes — or the perfect finishing touch after your adventure.

Top 5 Things to Do in Reykjavík:

Underneath Ice Soft Breath

Underneath Ice Soft Breath

A Trip Among Glaciers and Bergs

Places to Visit:

  • Vatnajökull: The largest glacier in Europe. Here, you can go on ice hiking tours and explore breathtaking ice caves.
  • Jökulsárlón: The famous glacial lagoon, with enormous icebergs floating in the water. Don't miss Diamond Beach, where icebergs wash up on the black sand.
  • Sólheimajökull: A glacier that's easily accessible, where you can take an ice hiking tour, with expert guides to help you explore its surface.

Activities to Do:

  • Ice Hiking: Both at Vatnajökull and Sólheimajökull, you can take guided hikes, learning how to walk on ice while admiring ice caves and glacial formations.
  • Snowmobile Safari: On Vatnajökull, you can experience the thrill of snowmobiling across the ice tongues.
  • Glacial Lagoon Cruise: At Jökulsárlón, you can take a boat tour among the icebergs floating in the turquoise water.

Tips:

  • Bring Thermal and Waterproof Clothing: Temperatures on the glacier can drop quickly, so it's essential to be well-prepared.
  • Pack Your Camera: The landscapes are stunning, so you'll need a camera to capture these incredible moments.

Summer Feasibility: Yes, summer is a great time to explore Iceland's glaciers. During the summer months, temperatures are milder, but the glaciers are still accessible. Ice hiking tours at Sólheimajökull, Vatnajökull, and Jökulsárlón are available and offer spectacular scenery. However, ice caves are more difficult to visit in summer, as melting ice alters their structure. Still, glacier hikes remain very popular during the summer season.

Volcanoes, Geysers and Hot Springs

Volcanoes, Geysers and Hot Springs

Iceland’s Fiery Soul

Places to Visit:

  • Geysir (Golden Circle): The famous Great Geysir, which gave its name to all geysers around the world. Also in the area is Strokkur, another geyser that erupts regularly every 5–10 minutes.
  • Landmannalaugar: A geothermal area renowned for its natural hot springs and colorful rhyolite mountains. Here, you can go hiking and experience volcanic activity beneath your feet.
  • Fimmvörðuháls: A scenic hiking trail located between two active volcanoes, Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull, featuring spectacular landscapes and dramatic lava formations.
  • Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel: Located just 30 minutes from Reykjavík and easily accessible year-round, Raufarhólshellir is a fascinating lava tunnel stretching 1360 meters, with 900 meters of the main passage. With a width reaching up to 30 meters, here you can walk along the path once traveled by the lava from the Leitahraun eruption, which took place about 5200 years ago.

Things to Do:

  • Soak in geothermal hot springs: At the Sky Lagoon or Bláa Lónið (Blue Lagoon), take a dip in naturally heated geothermal waters rising from Iceland's volcanic ground.
  • Hike across volcanic terrain: In Landmannalaugar, explore trails that wind through lava fields and multicolored mountains.
  • Observe active volcanoes: Along the Fimmvörðuháls trail, hike near volcanic craters surrounded by awe-inspiring lava flows and volcanic steam.

Tips:

  • Wear sturdy hiking boots: Geothermal trails can be rough and uneven, so proper footwear is essential.
  • Consider hiring a guide: Some volcanic hikes can be challenging or risky — going with an expert ensures safety and enhances the experience.

Summer Feasibility:

Yes, summer is an ideal season to explore Iceland’s volcanic and geothermal wonders. Geothermal hot springs like the Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon are especially popular in summer, while active volcanoes like Eyjafjallajökull and Hekla are easily accessible. You can hike across volcanic landscapes and lava fields in Landmannalaugar. While Icelandic volcanoes remain active in summer, eruptions are relatively rare, so exploring these areas is generally safe and unforgettable.

Midnight Sun and Northern Lights

Midnight Sun and Northern Lights

Where the Sun Never Sleeps and the Sky Comes Alive

Places to Visit:

  • Reykjavík: From the capital, you can enjoy long summer days where the sun never fully sets. Explore the city and take advantage of the extended daylight to visit parks, museums, and outdoor restaurants.
  • Akureyri (North Iceland): In summer, this charming northern town offers endless daylight and opportunities for outdoor adventures like hiking and kayaking.
  • Þingvellir National Park: Part of the Golden Circle and also one of the best spots to view the northern lights in winter. It’s a place where the tectonic plates are slowly pulling apart, creating one of the most impressive geological formations in the world.

Things to Do:

  • Northern Lights Tour (in winter): From Þingvellir or near Akureyri, you may be lucky enough to witness the aurora borealis dancing across the sky — a magical natural phenomenon.
  • Midnight Sun Kayaking: In Akureyri, you can go kayaking in calm waters, basking in the endless daylight of the Icelandic summer.
  • Golden-Hour Hikes: During summer, take advantage of the midnight sun for scenic hikes in places like Þingvellir National Park and Lake Mývatn, where the landscape glows in golden evening light.

Tips:

  • Plan ahead for the Northern Lights: In winter, places like Akureyri and Lake Mývatn are perfect for viewing the aurora, but keep an eye on aurora forecasts for the best chance.
  • Time your adventures well: In summer, make the most of the extra daylight hours to explore deeper and stay out longer!

Summer Feasibility:

Yes, summer is the perfect time to enjoy the midnight sun. Iceland’s long days offer extended hours of light, especially in June and July, when the sun never fully sets. Although the northern lights are not visible during summer (since they require darkness), the beauty of the summer light and the chance to explore under the never-ending sun is a truly unique experience.

Icelandic Gems: 7 Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

Face to Face with Icelandic Wildlife

Face to Face with Icelandic Wildlife

Sea Creatures in an Alien Landscape

Places to Visit:

  • Lake Mývatn: This lake is a paradise for birdwatchers, especially for spotting puffins. It’s one of the best places for birdwatching in Iceland.
  • Dyrhólaey Promontory: Located on the southern coast of Iceland, it is one of the main breeding colonies for these fascinating seabirds. However, it is closed to visitors during the nesting season, from May 1st to June 25th, to protect the puffin eggs and chicks.
  • Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: A perfect spot to spot seals as they relax on the floating icebergs, offering a truly spectacular sight.
  • Reykjavik Bay (Faxaflói): It is possible to observe several species of whales, including humpback whales and minke whales, thanks to the numerous boat tours that depart from the capital.
  • Húsavík: Known as the whale watching capital of Iceland, this town is the perfect starting point for a whale watching excursion.
  • Snæfellsnes Peninsula: This area is home to a wide range of wildlife, including seals and seabirds. You can go hiking or take a boat trip to spot local creatures.

Things to Do:

  • Whale Watching in Húsavík: One of the most thrilling experiences in Iceland is a boat tour to spot whales, including humpbacks and blue whales.
  • Birdwatching at Lake Mývatn: This lake is a haven for migratory birds like puffins. You can go on a boat tour or hike the trails for excellent viewing.
  • Seal Watching in Snæfellsnes: Get close to seals lounging on beaches or swimming in the coastal waters of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Tips:

  • Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting: Iceland offers amazing opportunities to see wildlife up close, so don’t forget a good pair of binoculars.
  • Book your whale watching tour in advance: Húsavík tours are very popular, especially in summer, so it’s best to reserve early.

Summer Feasibility:

Yes, summer is the ideal time to observe Iceland’s wildlife. During this season, whales come closer to shore, and whale watching tours — especially from Húsavík — are in high demand. Birdwatching is also at its best, with migratory birds like puffins gathering in large colonies around Mývatn and along the coasts. Summer is also a great time to see seals on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

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