Iceland in June | Everything You Need to Know

Is June a Good Time to Visit Iceland?

The most common question we get is: When is the best time to travel to Iceland?

June is a great month to visit Iceland. It’s the beginning of summer when the days are long, and the sun is shining (mostly).

Snow may still dot the mountain tops, but the flowers are in bloom, and temperatures are becoming more comfortable (though not as warm as July and August).

• Read more about the Best Time to Visit Iceland
• See also: Iceland in Summer - The Ultimate Travel Guide

Driving in Iceland in June

Improved weather conditions mean that driving in Iceland in June is safe. The rugged roads to the Highlands are open, allowing access to the country's vast and wild interior, as long as you rent a 4x4 vehicle.

To drive the Ring Road, you only need to rent a small car as the roads will be completely free of snow and ice. Although sometimes glacier meltwater can flood areas on the South Coast, you will be free to drive around the island's shore and experience the best attractions along the way. Just beware of stray sheep that are free to roam the countryside. Their eyesight and hearing are not the best, so they may react slowly to oncoming cars.

• For more: Driving in Iceland: The Ultimate Guide to Road Trips
• See also: Best Attractions by the Ring Road of Iceland

Midnight Sun in June in Iceland

June is also the perfect time to experience the midnight sun in Iceland because the longest day of the year, the summer solstice, falls on June 21.

The sun technically does set in Iceland during the summer solstice, but the light lingers in a twilight state due to the island's northern latitude. It gives you more time to enjoy the sights during the day and is also a beautiful and unique phenomenon to witness.

There are many midnight sun tours in Iceland. You can go on a kayaking tour, hiking, or even camping to witness the sun that never sets. You can even rent a campervan for convenience or rent camping equipment instead of bringing it with you!

Weather in Iceland in June

June offers some of the best weather of the year in Iceland, with average temperatures consistently above 50° Fahrenheit (10° Celsius), long daylight hours, low winds, and sometimes scattered rain. June is a wonderful time to come to Iceland. It's one of the most popular months to visit and it's not difficult to understand why. The weather in June gives you enough time to cram in everything you want to see.

• See also: Iceland Weather, Climate & Temperature Year-Round

Is June Rainy in Iceland?

The average number of rainy days in Iceland in June is about 11. However, the weather in Iceland is consistently inconsistent, and it can change rapidly within the cycle of a day. It's extremely unlikely that you'll experience ice or snow in the lowlands, but you'll have a mix of rainy days, sunshine, and clear blue skies.

What’s the Weather Like in Reykjavik in June?

For those only visiting Iceland’s capital city, the Reykjavik weather in June tends to be warmer than the rest of the country. The average temperature in Reykjavik in June is 50° Fahrenheit (10° Celsius). But you should still pack some rain gear to be safe.

How Long is the Daylight in Iceland in June?

The midnight sun's amber glow creates perfect opportunities for photography enthusiasts since sunset and sunrise last far longer than just one golden hour. That is not to say that June is guaranteed sunshine.

But with 20-24 hours of daylight, which peaks around the summer solstice on June 21, you’re sure to have plenty of sunlight.

Iceland’s Temperature in June

In June, the average low temperature is 48° Fahrenheit (9° Celsius), and the average high temperature is 59° Fahrenheit (15° Celsius).

If you are planning outdoor activities, especially if you're planning to camp, it’s best to dress in layers. They will keep you warm in cold conditions and give you the option to take off layers when the sun comes out.

Whatever the weather, the number of activities and places to go in June are endless, so visit Iceland in June and leave with unforgettable memories and stories to share.

What to Pack and Wear When Visiting Iceland in June

The weather in Iceland can be pretty unpredictable at any time of year. If you’re visiting in June, you may not experience the extremes of Iceland’s winters, but there will likely be some rain and colder periods.

To be best prepared for what you could encounter, here is our list of the best items to pack for your trip.

• Layers: Multiple layers will allow you to bulk up or pare down what you’re wearing according to how the weather changes throughout the day.
• Waterproofs: Getting caught out by an impromptu shower can put a real dampener on your adventures. Be sure to have a suitable set of waterproofs, including gloves, just in case you need them.
• Hiking boots: You may not need to keep your feet quite so warm in June, but much of Iceland still requires rugged footwear to tackle the terrain.
• Swimwear: Icelanders love relaxing at their local swimming pool! Don't forget your swimwear if you want to experience any of the country’s many pools, lagoons, or hot springs.
• Sunglasses and sunscreen: It might not be tropical heat, but the sun can be bright and strong in Iceland in June. Be sure you’re well protected.

The Best Things to Do in Iceland in June

Are you wondering what to do in Iceland in June? As the first month of summer, June is an ideal month to visit Iceland because there are so many activities and places accessible. It’ll take too long to list all the possibilities, but the following list of the most popular summer activities is a good start.

Camping in June in Iceland

One of the top things to do in June is camping in Iceland, and there are many beautiful campsites all over the country. They will have showers and toilets close by or near local swimming pools where you can make use of the facilities.

You must find a designated campsite as camping out in the wilderness is illegal. Campsites also ensure you have the best amenities available, especially toilet facilities. Tjalda and Camping Card are fantastic websites for locating the closest campsite and its available facilities.

The weather is unpredictable, so layers are always recommended, as are consistent weather forecast checks. Remember that even when the sun sets, you'll be in twilight—so it won’t hurt to bring an eye mask!

Hiking in Iceland in June

The weather in June in Iceland is excellent for hiking, with many trails opening up. There's no better way to see the untouched natural beauty of the Icelandic countryside than exploring it on foot.

Better weather conditions open up remote routes that are usually inaccessible, and the possibility of camping makes longer trails possible.

The roads to the Highlands open in June, as does the Laugavegur trail, which connects the Landmannalaugar and Thorsmork nature reserve. You can find both guided and unguided hiking tours to these regions.

Another remote region great to hike is the Westfjords. It’s the oldest region of Iceland and it features dramatically deep fjords and tumbling waterfalls. Across the misty mountain tops are some impressive trails for hikers of all levels. In some cases, you can still follow ancient cairns down the well-beaten paths.

• For more: Hiking in Iceland: A Complete Guide to the Best Hikes and Trails
• See also: The Ultimate Guide to the Westfjords of Iceland 

Glacier Hiking and Snowmobiling in Iceland in June

Photo from Snowmobile Tour on Langjokull Glacier with Transfer from Gullfoss Waterfall

To add some extra adventure and awe to your excursion, why not try hiking or even snowmobiling across one of Iceland’s glaciers? Despite the slightly warmer temperatures and prolonged daylight, the glaciers of Iceland are still accessible in June. These huge natural wonders look fantastic in the June sunshine and offer a new perspective on Iceland’s incredible landscapes.

Venturing onto glaciers is a dangerous endeavor, though. Be sure to choose guided glacier hiking tours and snowmobile tours rather than going it alone and putting yourself at extreme risk.

When you book a guided tour, you’ll be provided with all the necessary equipment and be accompanied by a skilled, experienced guide who can keep you safe.

Hot Springs and Swimming Pools in Iceland in June

Photo from Admission to Hvammsvik Hot Springs near Reykjavik

June is a great time to visit hot springs in Iceland, as the weather will be warmer and the opening hours will be longer than in winter. Icelanders love to be in the water, and there's no city or town in Iceland without a pool nearby. You can also often find hot springs and geothermal pools in the most surprising and remote places!

Geothermal energy is intertwined with Iceland's history and culture, and meeting up in the water is a common way to catch up among locals.

Although these spots are nearly always outside, they're frequented year-round. Iceland’s warmer June weather is an excellent time of year for those who wish to discover Icelandic pool culture.

• Discover the Best Swimming Pools in Iceland
• See also: When and Where to (Not) Get Naked in Iceland

Photo from Relaxing 4-Hour Hike to Reykjadalur Valley With Hot Spring Tour from Hveragerdi

Natural hot springs are less likely to have changing rooms, let alone heated ones, so the June weather in Iceland opens up the possibility of enjoying a dip. Beware that some hot springs may be on private property, and you must get the landowner's permission. Due to these restrictions, it is easier to book a hot spring tour.

The almost endless sunlight hours of June give you all day and night to enjoy these natural wonders. There’s nothing like experiencing the long shadows and colorful sunset glow from a hot spring in the middle of nowhere.

Most towns and villages will have a swimming pool, and Reykjavik has many. No matter the location, there's always one rule to follow: you must wash thoroughly without your swimsuit before entering the pool. It's one way that the pools are kept clean and only require light chlorination.

In Reykjavik, the swimming pools are large and often come with extra comforts such as saunas and steam rooms. Laugardalslaug, the largest in Reykjavik, even offers massages and spa treatments.

Sundhollin swimming pool in downtown Reykjavik has recently reopened after renovations and is a favorite among locals and visitors for its central location and social atmosphere.

Horse Riding in June in Iceland

June offers excellent weather for horseback riding and a chance to experience the beauty of the countryside from a different perspective. The Icelandic horse has been bred in isolation in Iceland for over 1,000 years. It has faithfully served as a transport and agricultural companion in the past but is now primarily used for leisure and competitive riding.

The Icelandic horse is famous for its short, stocky build and its fifth gait, the so-called "tölt." They're also calm, friendly, and very intelligent. These qualities make the horses ideal for children and beginners, so going on a horse riding tour to explore Iceland is also a fantastic family activity. Furthermore, the longer hours of sunlight give you more flexibility on what time of day and how long you can take your horseriding trip.

• See also: The Icelandic Horse | A Comprehensive Guide

Whale and Puffin Watching in June in Iceland

Photo from Whale Watching Tour off Reykjavik's Faxafloi Bay

The shores of Iceland’s coasts are rich in krill and fish, attracting whales and birds to its dramatic coastline. Whale-watching and puffin-spotting tours are often combined as a boat trip.

The Atlantic puffin only nests on the Icelandic coastline between May and August, so June is a prime month to spot this adorable bird. It’s regarded by many as the unofficial bird of Iceland (the gyrfalcon being the official national bird of Iceland), and you won’t want to miss your chance to spot these colorfully beaked fellows.

• For more: Where to See Puffins in Iceland

Both whale and puffin spotting make for excellent family adventures. Even though whale watching tours are available all year round, setting sail in the summer months makes for a much more pleasant experience at sea, with lower winds and kinder temperatures.

Whales are not the only mammals you can hope to see. Although humpbacks and minke whales are common, you may spot harbor porpoises and short-beaked dolphins. Less common species are fin whales and orcas (killer whales). You can also look forward to spotting Iceland's birdlife: gulls, fulmars, gannets, and guillemots. And, of course, puffins!

Once onboard, you'll be taken to the prime spotting locations. Your expert guide will tell you and show you any wildlife in the area and provide informative and fun facts about all curious creatures.

• Read more: The Best Guide to Whale Watching in Iceland

Kayaking in Iceland in June

Photo from Kayaking in Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

With the warmer weather in Iceland comes the opportunity to get out on the water in a kayak. Whether it’s along the coast or on one of Iceland’s lakes and fjords, kayaking tours are available for all sorts of durations and differing skill levels. Ranging from easy two-hour trips for beginners to full-on six-day epic quests, there are plenty of options to suit any and all visitors to Iceland.

Lupine Fields in Iceland in June

With the Iceland weather in June becoming warm, the country is enveloped in blue and purple flowers called lupines.

Lupine was initially introduced to help with soil erosion, but they've quickly spread to cover large parts of the countryside. In some places, they're considered invasive species threatening indigenous plants, like native moss species. Lupines are, therefore, quite controversial in Iceland, but many consider the quilt of flowers stunning and don't mind their spread across the Icelandic countryside.

The lupines are out in full force at the start of summer, and they're one of the top things to see in Iceland in June.

If you drive around Iceland, you'll get a taste of its contrasts; even over a short distance, the landscapes change so swiftly. Within a few miles, you'll see purple lupine fields, mossy green lava fields, and lush pastures dotted with yellow buttercups and dandelions.

• See also: The Dynamic Plant Lupine

Lava Caving in June in Iceland

Photo from Classic 1 Hour Lava Tunnel Caving Tour of the Raufarholshellir Lava Tubes

June is a perfect month to discover Iceland’s lava caves and tubes. Many lava caves are inaccessible in the winter due to ice, but as it thaws, these underground labyrinths are ready to be explored again. Get beneath the surface to experience first-hand the powerful volcanism that created and continues to shape Iceland.

It’s never advisable to enter a cave in Iceland without an expert, and there are many guided lava cave tours near and far from Reykjavik.

The flexibility of the summer months means you can mix and match to get the most out of your time. For example, you can go on this thrilling 9-hour combo tour of Silfra snorkeling and Raufarholshellir caving.

Fishing in June in Iceland

Photo from Relaxing 2-Hour Kayak Fishing Adventure by Mt. Kirkjufell

June is a great time for fishing in Iceland, with lakes and rivers full of fish. Iceland has a deep relationship with fishing, with much of Icelandic history revolving around it. Fishing in lakes and rivers is a popular leisure activity. You’ll need a permit to fish in any river or lake in Iceland and permission from the landowner.

This can be tricky, and the permits are expensive. The easiest approach for experienced anglers and beginners is booking a guided fishing tour. If you particularly want to go at it alone and plan your own trip, we recommend you read more about fishing in Iceland to ensure you follow all the rules.

Sea-angling is more straightforward, and you can even pair two experiences together, like with this combination whale-watching and sea fishing boat trip. In some cases, the tours will even help you gut your fish for cooking.

The cheapest route to catching fish in Iceland is harbor fishing. Some companies by the Reykjavik harbor offer rod rental so you can cast your line, relax, and let your feet dangle over the pier.

Can You See the Northern Lights in Iceland in June?

Unfortunately, you can not see the northern lights in Iceland in June. This is because it is simply too bright for the northern lights to be visible. However, solar flares that cause aurora borealis take place year-round at all hours of the day. But to see them from the surface of the Earth, conditions need to be perfect, and if the sky never gets dark, like during the Icelandic summers, you will not be able to see them. On the other hand, you can see the midnight sun every night in June as an awesome consolation prize!

• Discover the Northern Lights in Iceland - When & Where To See the Aurora

What's Going On in June in Iceland?

What to see in Iceland in June? Although Iceland is a tiny country with around 370,000 residents, there are many wonderful national holidays and music and arts festivals throughout the year.

The month of June is no exception. If you are traveling to Iceland in June, here are cultural events you can enjoy during your visit.

Fisherman's Day

Photo from Authentic 1 Hour Sea Fishing Boat Trip in the Westfjords with Transfer from Bildudalur

Fisherman's Day is a public holiday on the first Sunday of June. Iceland’s history, culture, and survival have long been intertwined with fishing and fishermen. It’s a weekend-long celebration, especially in the countryside.

It was established in 1938 to celebrate all those brave Icelanders who risked their lives at sea, past and present, and as a remembrance of those who have tragically died.

The weekend is enthusiastically celebrated in the Capital area and towns around Iceland. If you find yourself in a town by the sea, make sure you get down to the harbor to see the local festivities. Activities, especially for kids, make Fisherman's Day a fantastic family outing.

If you’re in Reykjavik for this holiday, you can visit the old fish-packing district, now the hip and cool Grandi, about 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) from the downtown area.

There are free cultural events at many of Reykjavik's museums, especially the Reykjavik Maritime Museum. Some restaurants will also offer special seafood soup, and there may be outdoor vendors tempting you with seafood treats. You can even watch the fisherman put the fish (and alien-like creatures of the deep) on ice!

Lobster Festival in Hofn

Hofn is a lovely place to visit in Iceland in June. They host an annual lobster festival at the end of June to celebrate its birthday. Hofn is famous for its lobster and langoustine. The festival is a weekend celebration with live music concerts and, of course, lots and lots of lobster.

• See also: Top 20 Festivals in Iceland

Things to Do in Reykjavik in June

The Reykjavik weather in June brings people out and about on the streets. You’ll see more crowded streets and even groups having picnics in Austurvollur square. Some of the public holidays are more spectacular in the capital. If you’re wondering what to do in Reykjavik in June, you can’t go wrong with the Icelandic national holidays and some of the year’s biggest festivals.

• See more: Top 10 Things to Do in Reykjavik

Iceland's Independence Day (June 17)

On June 17, Iceland's national day is celebrated throughout the country. Iceland gained its independence in 1944 from the Kingdom of Denmark after having been under the rule of foreign kings since 1262. June 17 also marks the birthday of Iceland's fiercest fighter for independence, Jón Sigurðsson, whose statue you can see in Austurvollur square in front of the Althingi parliament building. As expected from a national celebration, flags fly at full mast, and most people have the day off.

A parade through the downtown area in Reykjavik features people in traditional Icelandic costumes, people on horseback, and flag-wielding scouts. People head to the central area to watch the show and hear a speech from the annually appointed Fjallkonan, or the "woman of the mountain," a personification of Iceland's strong character and spirit.

People celebrate in central Reykjavik no matter the weather. In fact, Icelanders tend to sarcastically joke that it's not a proper June 17 if it doesn't rain. Similar celebrations happen all over the country, varying in scale, so be sure to join in wherever you are.

• Learn more about Iceland's Independence Day
• See also: The Ultimate Guide to Downtown Reykjavik

Viking Festival in Hafnarfjordur

Hafnarfjordur is a charming harbor town 6 miles (10 kilometers) from Reykjavik and home to Iceland’s longest-running Viking Festival. For years, it took place at the Viking Village, but today, it's in Vidistadatun park. Entry is free for everyone.

The Viking Festival usually occurs over a week in mid-June and ends on June 17th. It features a market that sells leather goods, fur, jewelry, swords, and other handcrafted items. There are also Viking reenactment battles, which are great to watch!

Have we answered your questions about visiting Iceland in June? Will you try any of the special experiences going on during this month in Iceland? Have you visited Iceland before? Please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!