Iceland in June: Sunny Weather, Hiking Season, and More!
June marks the beginning of all things exciting in Iceland. It is the first summer month, the start of peak tourist season, and the month when you can witness the midnight sun phenomenon. June is when days are long — the longest in the year, and the countryside is in full bloom. The mountain paths that had been closed for winter are fully accessible now as the winter snow has fully melted off. The weather in June makes it the perfect time to spot wildlife, including whales, seals, and the famous puffin. A trip to Iceland in June is filled with many wonderful things to see and experience, making it the most ideal time to visit this Nordic country.
- Jonathan N.
Iceland Weather in June
Iceland experiences some of the best weather conditions in June. It is one of the warmest months, where the country experiences an average daytime temperature of 12°C (54°F) and an average nighttime temperature of 7°C (45°F). The capital city, Reykjavik, tends to be warmer than the rest of the country.
Be it hiking the Icelandic Highlands or simply exploring major attractions, the long daylight hours and low winds during June make every nook and cranny accessible starting this month.
June is also the driest month in Iceland. While the country averages 25 millimeters of rainfall across the month, the weather can still be unpredictable at times. So pack rain gear and warm layers to stay on the safe side.
For a more in-depth seasonal overview, make sure to check our travel guide on the best time to visit Iceland.
Weather in Iceland in June - Rainfall and Temperatures
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 2 | 2 | 2 | 5 | 8 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 9 | 6 | 3 | 1 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | -1 | -1 | -1 | 1 | 4 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 2 | 0 | -2 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 36 | 36 | 36 | 41 | 47 | 54 | 56 | 56 | 49 | 43 | 38 | 34 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 31 | 31 | 31 | 34 | 40 | 45 | 49 | 47 | 41 | 36 | 32 | 29 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 47 | 33 | 40 | 36 | 32 | 25 | 25 | 37 | 40 | 30 | 29 | 35 |
| May | Jun | Jul | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 8 | 12 | 13 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 4 | 7 | 9 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 47 | 54 | 56 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 40 | 45 | 49 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 32 | 25 | 25 |
Why Visit Iceland in June
Iceland offers a perfect blend of favorable weather, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences in June, making it an ideal holiday destination. Here are the top reasons to plan an Iceland trip in June.
-
Witness the midnight sun: Iceland experiences 24 hours of sunlight from mid to late June. It is the time when the sun never truly sets but hovers just below the horizon, resulting in a few hours of twilight every night. The further north you travel in Iceland, the longer the midnight sun lasts.
-
Go hiking: June marks the beginning of the hiking season in Iceland. As the snow melts, the f-roads that lead to dramatic mountains, coastal cliffs, and lush valleys become more accessible. It's a fantastic time to explore the diverse and challenging trails that showcase the country's unique geological features.
-
Explore glacial waters: As summer arrives in Iceland, the frozen landscape, including glaciers and waterfalls, starts to melt, forming vast glacial water bodies. This is the perfect time to take a boat trip and explore the iceberg. At the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, visitors can witness dazzling bergs floating in the blue waters against the backdrop of vibrant green hillsides.
-
Celebrate Icelandic heritage: Iceland in June celebrates various cultural events and festivals commemorating its heritage. The celebration of Iceland's National Day on June 17 provides a unique opportunity to engage with local traditions, music, and festivities. The annual Viking Festival is also held around the same time when participants reenact Viking history with costumes and mock battles. Throughout the month, visitors can immerse themselves in these spirited celebrations that are uniquely Icelandic.
-
Spot wildlife: June is the peak season to explore Iceland’s magnificent terrain and a prime time for wildlife sightings. Join whale-watching excursions to spot the gentle giants and several other marine creatures in the seas surrounding the island country. Along the coastlines, puffin colonies are bustling, offering a delightful experience for birdwatchers.
Where To Go and What To Do In Iceland in June
A plethora of activities and attractions await visitors taking a trip to Iceland in June. The midnight sun (summer solstice event) is the top highlight of the month, which takes place between June 20 and June 22. This phenomenon is best witnessed in North Iceland, particularly in places like Akureyri and Grímsey. The long daylight hours also create optimal conditions for leisurely drives and spontaneous stops at enchanting locations, such as the regions around Godafoss waterfalls and Vik.
The Icelandic Highlands, a remote and rugged region, become accessible with the opening of the f-roads in June. Adventure-seekers can explore the untouched wilderness through hiking, camping, and off-road driving — fully immersing themselves in the raw beauty of Iceland’s captivating landscapes. A hike along the famous Laugavegur trail could be a part of your adventure trip in Iceland.
Similarly, kayaking enthusiasts can head to popular lagoons such as Jokulsarlon, Breidamerkurjokull, and Vatnajökull. Catch the peak whale-watching season in Husavik in June, where you can spot about 23 species of whales, including the humpback. Lastly, head to Hofn for the Lobster Festival, which celebrates lobster fishing, a major part of the area’s economy.
Need Help Planning Your June Trip to Iceland?
From the captivating dance of icebergs in Jökulsárlon Glacier Lagoon to the awe-inspiring wonders along the legendary Ring Road, Iceland in June is a kaleidoscope of natural beauty waiting to be explored. The month offers endless possibilities for outdoor activities, adventure and cultural immersion.
Complete our personalized Iceland trip form, and allow our team of travel experts to craft a tailor-made itinerary just for you. For additional ideas and inspiration, peruse our comprehensive Iceland guide.
Our related travel guide articles:
