June in Iceland means sun, rainbows, and blooming wildflowers. These are the longest days of the year as the midnight sun reigns, puffins and whales migrate to Iceland’s shores, and summer celebrations are in full swing.

If you’re planning a summer vacation to the Land of Fire and Ice, here’s everything you need to know about visiting Iceland in June.

the summer view of Seljalandsfoss

What is the weather in Iceland in June?

Weather in Iceland in June is all things sunshine! June might be the best month to visit Iceland in terms of weather with long days to jam pack with adventures and warm weather that makes for great hiking and exploring. The landscape becomes verdant green and dotted with colorful wildflowers while waterfalls are gushing at full capacity. Expect warm(er) temperatures and less frequent rain compared to other times of the year.

The bounty of daylight during this summer month transforms the country into a playground for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. With the sun barely setting, the concept of time becomes a mere suggestion. This phenomenon allows travelers to maximize their itineraries, indulging in activities from dawn till… well, dawn again! Whether it’s embarking on a late-night hike or enjoying the tranquility of a seaside sunset at midnight, the extended hours of daylight in this summer month offer a unique Icelandic experience that’s not to be missed.

seeing the waterfall in Iceland in summer

The Iceland average temperature in June

The average temperature in Iceland in June is a high of 54°F and a low of 44°F.

Daylight in Iceland in June

Average daylight for Iceland in June is at 20.5 hours. That’s almost the entire day! This incredible amount of sunlight not only fuels the island’s vibrant summer life but also provides an unparalleled opportunity for visitors to explore the vast and varied landscapes of Iceland. From the lush valleys filled with wildflowers to the majestic glaciers gleaming under the sun, the long hours of daylight invite endless exploration.

Can you see northern lights in iceland in June ?

No, it isn’t possible to see the northern lights in June due to the midnight sun. Northern lights season in Iceland is from October to April with peak months between November and March.

summer view of Iceland in Vik

Is Iceland cold in June?

June is one of the warmest months in Iceland. That being said, its a good idea to pack warm layers and jackets as evenings can be chilly.

Almost all of the snow will have melted and while there could be a freak snow flurry or two at the beginning of the month, the winter precipitation has largely disappeared.

The absence of snow and ice reveals a landscape teeming with life, inviting visitors to witness Iceland in its most vibrant state.

The warmer days and cool evenings are perfect for exploring the diverse terrains, from volcanic fields to glacial rivers, making June an ideal time for adventurers to witness the raw beauty of the Land of Fire and Ice.

June is the perfect time for self-driving Iceland

What are the road conditions in Iceland in June? Easy to drive?

June is one of the best months to drive around Iceland. The snow and ice that plague roads in the winter months and shoulder seasons are gone, and you can comfortably navigate around without any prior winter driving experience. If you’re sticking to the main roads or the famous Ring Road, it’s going to be easy going in the month of June.

This is also one of the only months of the year when you can drive on Iceland’s interior roads, also known as F-roads. Many of these lead to beautiful and pristine wilderness that is virtually inaccessible for the rest of the year. The clearance of these paths offers a rare opportunity to explore the untouched landscapes that make Iceland so unique. With the thawing of winter’s grip, rivers run crystal clear, waterfalls roar with life, and valleys bloom with wildflowers, creating a scenic drive like no other.

Additionally, the improved road conditions in June also mean that more areas of the country become accessible, allowing for spontaneous detours and discoveries. Whether it’s a hidden hot spring, a secluded beach, or a panoramic viewpoint, the freedom to explore is at its peak. So, roll down the windows, breathe in the fresh Icelandic air, and let the open roads guide you to the wonders of the Land of Fire and Ice.

summer is one of the best time to self-drive Iceland

Is it a good time to self-drive in Iceland in June?

June is a great time to take a road trip around Iceland. The most famous route follows Route 1, also known as the Ring Road, a highway that circumnavigates the entire country.

Whether you have a day or a week, there are plenty of self-drive itineraries to choose from like the Snaefellsnes Peninsula or the Golden Circle.

You’ll have days where the sun never seems to set and rain is sparse, both factors that make for great driving conditions! One factor to keep in mind is that roads will be busier at this time of year as June is a high tourism month.

Gullfoss of Iceland in Golden Circle

Top Things to do in Iceland in June

June might bring summer to Iceland but there are still adventures in the snow and ice to be had! That being said, June is also a time to partake in activities that you simply can’t do during winter like seeing the inside of a volcano or hiking in Landmannalaugar. This also happens to be one of the best times to spot wildlife.

Here are some of the best things to do in Iceland in June.

Self-drive along the Ring Road

Iceland’s Ring Road is one of the world’s bucket list road trips. If you have a week to spend, this is the best way to see the country! After spending a day or two in the capital, rent a car and head either clockwise or counter-clockwise around the country. Many of Iceland’s best attractions, like Diamond Beach and Jökulsarlon, are just off the road.

Outdoor Activities

There’s no better time in Iceland to get outside and enjoy nature than in June. A myriad of activities are on the table including snorkeling the Silfra Fissure, horseback riding in the countryside, and snowmobiling or hiking on glaciers. The sky is truly the limit for outdoor adventures!

glacier hiking is one of the best thing to do in iceland

Go Inside a Volcano

For a very short time period during summer, visitors can actually see the inside of a volcano! Þríhnúkagígur Volcano last erupted 4,500 years ago and is the only dormant volcano on earth that can be explored from the inside. Guests enter the volcanoes cinder cone by an ingenious lift system that lowers you down to the floor. This experience is lead by expert guides.

Whale Watching and Puffin Spotting

Both whales and puffins have returned to Iceland in the month of June. Many tours combine whale watching and puffin spotting by searching for humpbacks on the way out to puffin breeding grounds.

These cruises are also generally more comfortable in June as temperatures are warm and rain is less likely.

you can see a puffin in Iceland summer

The Magic of Hot Springs in Iceland

In the land where geothermal activity shapes the landscape, Iceland’s hot springs are a testament to nature’s spa. From the world-renowned Blue Lagoon to hidden gems scattered across the countryside, these natural hot springs offer a serene escape, where you can unwind under the surreal light of the midnight sun. Each soak becomes a moment of reflection and relaxation, set against the backdrop of Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.

Exploring Iceland’s Highland Roads

Driving Through the Heart of Iceland’s Raw Beauty

As summer unveils Iceland’s rugged interior, the highland roads invite the intrepid traveler to venture beyond the beaten path. These seasonal passages open up in June, leading you through landscapes that seem otherworldly. Journeying through the highlands, you encounter moss-covered lava fields, vibrant green valleys, and the sparkling beauty of glacier lagoons. The freedom to explore these areas at your own pace is a unique summer privilege, making every turn a discovery.

you can go hiking at Landmannarlaguar in highland of Iceland in summer

Celebrate Under the Midnight Sun

Icelandic National Day and the Summer Solstice

June in Iceland is a time of celebration, marked by the summer solstice and the joyous festivities of Icelandic National Day on June 17th. Experience the culture and spirit of the Icelandic people as towns and cities come alive with parades, music, and dance. This period of continuous daylight, with the sun barely dipping below the horizon, adds a magical quality to the celebrations, allowing you to experience the full vibrancy of Icelandic traditions.

Adventure on the Water: Boat Tours in Iceland

Encountering Iceland’s Marine Life and Rugged Coastlines

The call of the sea is irresistible in June, with boat tours offering a fresh perspective on Iceland’s majestic landscapes and teeming wildlife. These excursions range from thrilling whale-watching adventures to serene sails along fjords under the glow of the midnight sun. It’s an opportunity to witness the natural beauty of Iceland from the water, including the chance to see puffins, humpback whales, and other marine species in their natural habitat.

join a tour and go whale watching in iceland

Consider renting a car in Iceland in June? Choose Firefly Iceland! Here’s why

Navigating Iceland’s stunning landscapes becomes an unforgettable adventure with Firefly Car Rental Iceland. Our ethos is simple: to provide you with the freedom of exploration at an unbeatable value.

We specialize in offering older model rental cars in Iceland at extremely low prices, perfect for the budget-conscious traveler who doesn’t want to compromise on adventure.

For those who prefer a touch of modernity, our newer fleet is available at very competitive prices, ensuring you get the best of both worlds.

Located conveniently at Keflavik International Airport, we ensure a seamless rental experience right from the moment you land. Our streamlined process means you can be on the road, heading towards your first destination in no time.

With Firefly Car Rental Iceland, you’re not just renting a car; you’re unlocking the door to exploring the majestic Land of Fire and Ice at your own pace, without breaking the bank. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, venturing into the highlands, or cruising along the Ring Road, our reliable and affordable vehicles are your perfect companion for an epic Icelandic journey.

Firefly Iceland is an award winning car rental company in Iceland

Guide to Iceland in June with a rental car

In weaving these threads together, June emerges as the quintessential time to visit Iceland. It’s a month where the elements of earth, water, and sky converge in a display of natural beauty and cultural festivity. Whether soaking in a hot spring, navigating the highland roads, celebrating Icelandic heritage, or embarking on a marine adventure, June in Iceland offers an endless canvas for exploration. So, gear up for your journey with Firefly Iceland Car Rentals and embrace the adventures that await in the Land of Fire and Ice.

June is one of the best months to visit Iceland. Whether you’re looking to see a colony of puffins and breaching whales or head underground into the belly of an extinct volcano, there’s no better time to discover the Land of Fire and Ice than during the long days of summer.

Book an inexpensive rental car with Firefly Iceland Car Rentals and get to planning your summer adventures in Iceland today! 

The cheapest rental car options for June in Iceland

DUSTER

Dacia Duster or similar | Manual | 4×4 | 2020-2021 (CFMX)

Group E2 Reservations are made by car category only. We cannot guarantee a specific car model. or similar

  • 5 Passengers
  • 3 Large
  • 5 Doors
  • Manual
  • Airconditioning

Suitable for the highland F-roads. Please read Terms & Conditions.
You must be 20 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features
  • 4 Wheel Drive
  • 116 C02 g/km
  • Adjustable Steering
  • Electronic Stability Control
  • ABS
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
  • Airbags
VW-GOLF

VW Golf or similar | Automatic | 2020-2021 Model (CDAX)

Group: B2 Reservations are made by car category only. We cannot guarantee a specific car model. or similar

  • 5 Passengers
  • 2 Large Bags
  • 5 Doors
  • Automatic
  • Airconditioning

This vehicle is NOT allowed in the highland F-roads.

You must be 20 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features
  • 1 Small Bag
  • 2 Large, 1 Small
  • 138 cc
  • Adjustable Steering
  • Cruise Control
  • Electronic Stability Control
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
  • Airbags
  • Fog Lamps
VW-GOLF

VW Golf or similar | Manual | 2020-2021 Model (CDMX)

Group: B Reservations are made by car category only. We cannot guarantee a specific car model. or similar

  • 5 Passengers
  • 2 Large Bags
  • 4 Doors
  • Manual
  • Airconditioning

This vehicle is NOT allowed in the highland F-roads.

You must be 20 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features
  • 1 Small Bag
  • 2 Large, 1 Small
  • Front Wheel Drive
  • 125 C02 g/km
  • Adjustable Steering
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
  • Airbags
  • Fog Lamps
VW-POLO

VW Polo or similar| Manual | 2020-2021 Model (EDMX)

Group A Reservations are made by car category only. We cannot guarantee a specific car model. or similar

  • 5 Passengers
  • 2 Large
  • 5 Doors
  • Manual
  • Airconditioning

This vehicle is NOT allowed in the highland F-roads.

You must be 20 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features
  • Front Wheel Drive
  • 99 C02 g/km
  • Adjustable Steering
  • ABS
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
  • Airbags
  • Fog Lamps
  • Satelite Navigation
TIGUAN

VW Tiguan or similar | Automatic | 4×4 | 2020-2021 Model (IFAX)

Group: OReservations are made by car category only. We cannot guarantee a specific car model. or similar

  • 5 Passengers
  • 3 Large
  • 5 Doors
  • Automatic
  • Airconditioning

Suitable for the highland F-roads. Please read Terms & Conditions.
You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features
  • 4 Wheel Drive
  • Adjustable Steering
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
  • Airbags
  • Fog Lamps
VW_UP

VW Up or similar | Manual | 2020-2021 Model (MBMX)

Group: Z Reservations are made by car category only. ,We cannot guarantee a specific car model. or similar

  • 4 Passengers
  • 1 Large
  • 4 Doors
  • Manual
  • Airconditioning

This vehicle is NOT allowed in the highland F-roads.

You must be 20 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features
  • Petrol or Diesel
  • Front Wheel Drive
  • 95 C02 g/km
  • Adjustable Steering
  • ABS
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Remote Locking
  • Fog Lamps