Want to go to Iceland in June?
Find out if the region is right for you at this time of year, with our comprehensive guide to climate, travel conditions, crowds, prices, attractions and events.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
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Going to Iceland in June: quick answers
Is the weather nice in Iceland in June? Is this a good time to visit?
June is one of the best months to visit Iceland. The days are very long with the midnight sun, the thermometer shows mild temperatures for the country and most roads are open, including those in the Highlands. We like this period because it allows us to explore the island in favorable conditions.
It’s also the start of the high tourist season: visitors are numerous, especially in the south and the Golden Circle, and prices rise accordingly.
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Travelling to Iceland in June: summary of conditions
Temperatures
On the south coast and in Reykjavik, the thermometer fluctuates between 8°C (46°F) and 13°C (55°F) during the day. In the north, around Akureyri, averages are similar, sometimes slightly cooler.
Crowds and prizes
June marks the start of the high season. Well-known sites such as the Golden Circle, Reynisfjara beach and Jökulsárlón lagoon attract large numbers of visitors. We advise you to book accommodation and activities well in advance.
Opening conditions
In June, almost all roads are open, including the Hautes Terres tracks (F roads), which gradually become accessible over the course of the month. Some high-altitude trails may remain closed at the beginning of the month, depending on snow conditions. We recommend that you visit road.is before planning an inland itinerary. Attractions, museums, restaurants and hotels are in full swing.
Length of day
In June, Iceland experiences the phenomenon of the midnight sun. The sun hardly sets at all: daylight lasts between 21h and 24h of continuous light. Around the summer solstice, around June 21, the sun barely scratches the horizon before rising again. This gives you almost unlimited time to explore. But still take the time to sleep!
WHERE TO STAY IN Iceland
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
- Where to stay in Iceland (coming soon)
- Where to sleep in Reykjavik (coming soon)
- Best 5-star hotels (coming soon)
- Where to sleep on the South Coast (coming soon)
- Where to sleep on the Golden Circle (coming soon)
- Where to sleep on the Snaefellsnes peninsula
Best attractions in Iceland in June
In June, most sites are accessible and conditions are ideal for all kinds of activities. We liked it:
- Touring the Golden Circle: Thingvellir, Geysir and Gullfoss
- Watch puffins on the cliffs of Látrabjarg or on the Vestmann islands
- Hiking the Fimmvörðuháls trail between Skógar and Þórsmörk
- Admire the southern waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss and Svartifoss, which have plenty of water in June.
- Sailing among the icebergs of the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon
- Explore the remote and spectacular Western Fjords
- Bathing in natural hot springs such as Reykjadalur or Seljavallalaug
- Discover Mývatn’s volcanic formations
- Exploring the Snaefellsnes peninsula
- Drive Route 1 (circular route) for a complete tour of the island
- …
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Climate in Iceland in June – weather forecast
Iceland’s climate is oceanic and changeable. In June, conditions are generally the mildest of the year, but the weather can change rapidly from hour to hour. A local expression sums it up well: “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes.” We have often observed this variability on site.
On the coasts and in the south
Along the southern coast, temperatures are relatively mild and days are often partly sunny. However, the wind can blow hard, especially on the black sand beaches. Precipitation is moderate: it rains less than in winter, but occasional showers are still frequent. We suggest you bring waterproof and windproof clothing, even if the sun is shining at the start. The Vik region and the south coast enjoy a slightly milder climate than the rest of the country.
In the north
The Akureyri region, protected by the surrounding mountains, can enjoy calm, sunny days. Temperatures here are comparable to those in the south, sometimes even slightly higher in the fjord bottoms. On the other hand, the north coast, exposed to the Arctic wind, remains cooler. Showers are less frequent than in the south, but fog can set in, especially near coastal areas.
In the Highlands
The inland highlands are colder and windier. In June, the snow gradually melts, making the F pistes accessible week by week. Temperatures can drop below 0°C at night, and sandstorms or windstorms are possible. If you’re planning to explore Landmannalaugar or Askja, we recommend that you check road conditions and bring cold-weather gear.
UNFORGETTABLE ACTIVITIES IN Iceland
- Swimming in the Silfra fissure
- Horseback riding
- Hiking on a glacier
- Whale watching (from Reykjavik, Husavik or Akureyri)
June temperatures in Iceland
Temperatures vary from region to region, but remain cool for a summer month. Here are the averages for three representative cities.
Temperature in Reykjavik
- Average daytime temperature: 12°C (54°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 7°C (45°F)
Temperature in Akureyri
- Average daytime temperature: 13°C (55°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 7°C (45°F)
Temperature in Vik
- Average daytime temperature: 11°C (52°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 6°C (43°F)
In any case, all year round, you’ll need warmth, windproof and rainproof layers. From T-shirt to full-coverage in no time.
RENTING A CAR IN Iceland
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On Route 1, no 4WD required, off Route 1, it depends on your plans.
Rain and Wind
In Iceland in June, rainfall varies greatly from region to region. The south, exposed to Atlantic disturbances, receives more rain than the north, protected by the mountains. Showers are generally short but frequent. We recommend you always carry a waterproof jacket.
- Rainfall in Reykjavik: 40 to 55mm
(10 to 12 days on average) - Rainfall in Akureyri: 25 to 40mm
(8 to 10 days on average) - Rainfall in Vik: 80 to 120mm
(averaging 14 to 16 days)
It generally doesn’t snow on the plains in June. On the other hand, in the Hautes Terres and on the highest peaks, snow is still possible, especially at the beginning of the month. Glaciers cover around 11% of Iceland’s territory, and snow persists year-round.
Wind is a constant in Iceland. In June, it blows on average between 15 and 30km/h, sometimes more on exposed coasts and at higher altitudes. Gusts can be powerful and sudden, especially in open southern areas and near glaciers. We recommend that you fasten your car doors securely when you open them: the wind can blow them off. Check vedur.is for detailed forecasts before each outing.
Sunshine, midnight sun and northern lights
In June, daylight varies from 8:30 pm to almost 24 hours of continuous light.
The sun rises at around 3am and sets at around 11:50pm around the solstice. It never gets completely dark.
This phenomenon of the midnight sun transforms the travel experience. You’ll have almost constant brightness for your activities. Actual sunshine, however, depends on cloud cover: expect an average of 5 to 7 hours of direct sunshine a day. The low-angled light of late evening offers remarkable photographic conditions, what photographers call the extended “golden hour”. We particularly liked the golden light, which lasts for hours in the evening.
The midnight sun can disrupt your sleep rhythm. A night mask and blackout curtains (available in most accommodations) are useful for a good night’s sleep.
No chance to see the northern lights.
Crowds and other conditions
June marks the start of Iceland’s peak tourist season. Visitor numbers have risen sharply in recent years. The most popular sites in the Golden Circle (Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss), the south coast between Vik and Jökulsárlón and the Blue Lagoon are very busy in the middle of the day.
However, Iceland is a vast and sparsely populated country: as soon as you leave the classic itineraries, the number of visitors drops considerably. The western fjords, the Snæfellsnes peninsula during the week, or the Highlands offer a more solitary experience. We’ve found that by visiting popular sites early in the morning or late in the evening, thanks to the midnight sun, the crowds dissipate noticeably.
On the practical side, the mountain roads (F-roads) open progressively in June, expanding the possibilities for exploration. A 4WD vehicle is essential for these trails. On Route 1 (circular route), a standard vehicle is sufficient. Service stations are sparse in some areas, particularly in the eastern and western fjords: plan to fill up regularly.
Wildlife in June
June is the best month for wildlife watching in Iceland. Puffins, the country’s emblematic birds, are back on the cliffs for the nesting season. You’ll find them in great numbers on the Vestmann islands (Vestmannaeyjar), at Látrabjarg in the western fjords, and at Borgarfjörður Eystri in the east.
It’s also a great time for whale-watching. From Húsavík, considered “Europe’s whale-watching capital”, you can catch a glimpse of humpback whales, minke whales and the occasional blue whale. Excursions also leave from Reykjavik and Akureyri. Conditions at sea are generally better than in winter.
Arctic tern colonies are also very active in June. These birds protect their nests aggressively: if you walk close to a colony, they may swoop in flight towards your head. Stay on the marked trails and wear a hat if necessary.
June events in Iceland
In June, Iceland celebrates several events that reflect the country’s culture and traditions:
- Icelandic National Day (June 17): Jónsmessa, Republic Day, commemorates Iceland’s independence in 1944. Festivities take place all over the country, especially in Reykjavik, with parades, concerts and street performances.
- Hafnarfjörður Viking Festival: held in mid-June on the outskirts of Reykjavik, this festival recreates a Viking village. You’ll find demonstration fights, traditional crafts and banquets inspired by the Nordic sagas (9th-13th centuries).
- Summer solstice night (June 21): all over the country, gatherings and bonfires mark the shortest night of the year. It’s a tradition shared by several Nordic countries.
- Secret Solstice Festival in Reykjavik: music festival under the midnight sun. It hosts Icelandic and international artists in a unique atmosphere.
- Sjómannadagurinn (first Sunday in June): the Sailors’ Festival pays tribute to the people of the sea. Festivities in the harbours include boat races, sea-swimming competitions and seafood tastings.
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June prices
Iceland is a destination with a high cost of living, and June is the start of the high season. Prices for accommodation, car hire and organized excursions are among the highest of the year. As everywhere else, rates vary depending on what you’re looking for: from campsites to upmarket hotels, guesthouses and farmhouses. We recommend booking several months in advance.
Other months
When to go to Iceland, other months…
- Iceland in January
- Iceland in February
- Iceland in March
- Iceland in April
- Iceland in May
- Iceland in July
- Iceland in August
- Iceland in September
- Iceland in October
- Iceland in November
- Iceland in December
Or read our article on when to go to Iceland (coming soon).
PLAN YOUR SUMMER TRIP TO iceland
- Best of
What to do in Iceland
The most beautiful waterfalls
The most beautiful black sand beaches
Volcanic craters to climb
Lava caves to visit
Best excursions from Reykjavik
- Practical advice
Summer travel tips
How to rent a car in Iceland
Driving tips
Where to stay in Iceland
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 1 week – 10 days
- The must-dos
What to do in Reykjavik
Best attractions in the Golden Circle
South Coast attractions
Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Silver Circle
Lake Myvatn attractions
