Iceland didn’t earn its nickname, “Land of the Midnight Sun” for no reason! Every summer, the midnight sun in Iceland graces this northerly island with bright nights and plenty of fun. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Iceland during this magical time.

What is the Midnight Sun?

The midnight sun is a natural phenomenon that happens in places close to the Arctic and Antarctic Circles, where the sun doesn’t fully set for an extended period during summer. This means the skies stay bright, even in the middle of the night!

Here’s a fun fact: the midnight sun happens because the Earth tilts on its axis. During the summer months, the northern pole tilts toward the sun, making it possible to experience the midnight sun in places like Iceland. Around the Summer Solstice—the longest day of the year—the sun barely dips below the horizon before rising again. In fact, at the North Pole, the sun doesn’t set for about six months straight!

seeing the sun at mid night is possible in iceland summer time

In Iceland, the midnight sun doesn’t last quite as long, but it’s still an unforgettable experience. Thanks to Iceland’s proximity to the Arctic Circle, the capital city of Reykjavik enjoys up to 20.5 hours of sunlight in June. Even further north in Akureyri, the sun graces the skies for up to 22.5 hours. During this time, the sun doesn’t fully set, leaving a dreamy twilight that makes summer nights feel magical.

And here’s another cool twist: while the midnight sun is the star of Icelandic summers, the northern lights take over during the dark winter months. These two natural phenomena are just part of what makes Iceland so unique. Whether you’re chasing the midnight sun or dreaming of the aurora borealis, Iceland has you covered!

see northern lights in winter and midnight sun in iceland summer

When Can You See the Midnight Sun in Iceland?

Best Months for Viewing

The midnight sun in Iceland shines brightest during the summer months, from mid-May to late July, with the most spectacular display occurring around the Summer Solstice in Iceland on June 21st. Let’s break it down by month to help you plan your visit:

May in Iceland

By mid-May, the days in Iceland start to stretch longer, and you’ll notice the sun setting later and later. While it’s not quite the peak of the midnight sun yet, the long daylight hours make this an ideal time to explore Iceland’s natural wonders with fewer crowds. This is also a great month to enjoy the softer light in the evenings, which gives Iceland’s landscapes a magical glow.

A guide to Iceland in May

June in Iceland

June is the ultimate time to experience the midnight sun, with June 21st marking the longest day of the year. Around the Summer Solstice, the sun barely dips below the horizon, creating a golden twilight that lasts all night. Whether you’re hiking, visiting waterfalls, or driving along the Ring Road, you can take your time because you’ll never run out of daylight! This is the month where Iceland truly earns its nickname, “Land of the Midnight Sun.”

June in Iceland a travel guide with rental car

July in Iceland

The midnight sun continues into most of July, especially in the first few weeks. While the days slowly start to shorten, you’ll still have long, bright evenings to enjoy Iceland’s beauty. July is also one of the warmest months in Iceland, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking, whale watching, and exploring beaches under the soft glow of the midnight sun.

A travel guid e to Iceland in July summer time

Does the sun never set during these months in Iceland?

The sun will dip below the horizon for just a few hours, depending on where you are in Iceland. In Reykjavik on the Summer Solstice, the sun sets for just 3.5 hours while in Akureyri it sets for only 1.5 hours!

To contrast, the sun barely rises above the horizon during the Winter Solstice on December 22nd, known as polar night.

Best Places to Experience the Midnight Sun in Iceland

If you’re looking to visit Iceland to experience the Midnight Sun, here are the best places to do it!

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a fantastic place to start your midnight sun adventure. The bright summer nights bring the city to life with events like the Midnight Sun Run, a race that combines fitness and fun with incredible views of Reykjavik under the golden evening light. Another must-visit is the Secret Solstice, a unique music festival held in late June that takes full advantage of the never-ending daylight.

Strolling around Reykjavik during the midnight sun is an experience in itself. Imagine walking by the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, exploring the colorful streets, or enjoying a late-night drink by the Old Harbour, all while the sky stays lit. The midnight sun gives the city a vibrant, playful energy you won’t want to miss.

Reykjavik Hallgrímskirkja church
Hallgrímskirkja church

Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is a must-see for any trip to Iceland, and experiencing it under the midnight sun makes it even better. The three main highlights are:

  • Thingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Thingvellir is where Iceland’s history and geology collide. Walk between two tectonic plates in the rift valley, learn about Iceland’s ancient parliament, and marvel at crystal-clear springs like Silfra. The midnight sun casts a soft light over the park, making it feel almost otherworldly.
  • Geysir Geothermal Area: Home to the famous Strokkur Geyser, this spot is bursting with geothermal activity. Strokkur erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water high into the air. The midnight sun’s golden glow adds a magical touch to the bubbling mud pools and steaming vents.
  • Gullfoss Waterfall: This powerful waterfall is one of Iceland’s most breathtaking sights. Watching the midnight sun light up the mist from Gullfoss as it tumbles into the canyon is a truly unforgettable experience.
iceland golden circel gullfoss waterfall in summer

Route 1 Ring Road

A highway that circumnavigates the entire country, the Ring Road is the ultimate way to explore Iceland, and there’s no better time to do it than during the midnight sun season. With nearly endless daylight, you can take your time to see some of Iceland’s most incredible sights without the usual crowds.

Along the south coast, don’t miss the Reynisfjara black sand beach, the dramatic Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, or the otherworldly Vatnajökull Glacier National Park. Heading east, you’ll find the serene Stokksnes Peninsula with its iconic Vestrahorn Mountain, a favorite for photographers, and the charming fishing villages scattered along the coast.

In the north, visit Mývatn Lake, surrounded by volcanic wonders, and take a detour to see the majestic Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. You can also stop by the coastal town of Húsavík, often called the whale-watching capital of Iceland.

On the east side, the Eastfjords offer stunning landscapes, with picturesque fjords like Seyðisfjörður, where colorful houses sit against a dramatic mountain backdrop. Further along, you’ll find the hidden gem of Hengifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, with striking red clay layers in the surrounding cliffs.

No matter where you are along the Ring Road, the midnight sun lets you explore at your own pace. You’ll have the freedom to take your time soaking in the beauty of Iceland’s landscapes, whether it’s stopping for a quick photo or spending hours at a favorite spot.

you can see sun in the middle of night in summer iceland

Activities During the Midnight Sun

Iceland comes alive beneath the midnight sun and you’ll find plenty of activities and festivals celebrating this time of year!

Midnight Sun Run

The Midnight Sun Run is an annual half-marathon, 10k, and 5k that take place around the summer solstice.

Outdoor Adventures

There’s something extra special about experiencing Iceland’s best outdoor activities under the midnight sun. From hiking to free hot springs soaks, whale watching to puffin spotting, there’s no better time to jam pack your itineraries than a time of year when the sun hardly sets.

One of the best perks of the midnight sun is that many of Iceland’s most beautiful attractions, like waterfalls and beaches, don’t have opening or closing hours!

Enjoy Iceland Festivals and Events

Several festivals and events celebrate the midnight sun across Iceland, from the Summer Solstice Festival in Grimsey to the Arctic Open golf tournament in Akureyri.

Practical Tips for Visiting Iceland During the Midnight Sun

Visiting Iceland during the midnight sun comes with its own challenges! Here are a few things to know about visiting from mid-May to late July.

  • Summer in Iceland is probably a bit chillier than you’d expect. The average high and low temperature in Reykjavik sits between 58°F and 48°F. Luckily, rain tends to stay at bay until August.
  • It can be difficult to sleep during the midnight sun. Many accommodations will provide black out curtains but it’s a good idea to bring an eye mask and try to stick to your regular sleep schedule.
  • Road conditions are typically wonderful during the summer months as most of the ice and snow melt away. You can even access the interior roads, known as F-roads, with a 4×4 rental car.
  • While it might be tempting to stay up late and keep pushing yourself to see all of Iceland’s beautiful sights, never drive tired!

Best Cars to Rent in Summer Iceland

In the summer months, you can rent a small economy car, perfect for parking and fuel efficiency, or opt for a 4×4 vehicle if you want to drive the F-roads, leading to Iceland’s beautiful interior.

Firefly Iceland is an award winning car rental company in Iceland

Frequently Asked Questions about Midnight sun

Does Iceland have a midnight sun?

Yes, Iceland has a midnight sun! During summer, especially from mid-May to late July, the sun barely sets, so the nights stay bright. Around the Summer Solstice in June, you’ll experience almost 24 hours of daylight. It’s a magical time to explore Iceland!

enjoy a free natural hot sping in Iceland

Does Iceland have 3 months of darkness?

No, Iceland doesn’t have three full months of darkness. In winter, the days are very short, especially in December and January, with just a few hours of daylight each day. But even then, it’s not completely dark all the time.

What months is it completely dark in Iceland?

Iceland never goes completely dark for an entire month. The darkest time of the year is around the Winter Solstice in December, but you’ll still get a few hours of daylight, even in the northern parts of the country.

Why is Iceland called the Land of the Midnight Sun?

Iceland is called the Land of the Midnight Sun because, in summer, especially around the Summer Solstice, the sun never really sets. Instead, it dips below the horizon for a short time, keeping the skies light all night. It’s one of the most special things about visiting Iceland in summer!

Conclusion

Seeing the midnight sun in Iceland is no doubt an unforgettable memory! How many places in the world have sunlight for almost 24 hours a day?

Start planning your midnight sun adventures by booking a rental car with Firefly Iceland. You’ll have the freedom to explore the island and see some of the best sights without crowds with your own two wheels.

Best rental car for Iceland road trip

TIGUAN-GREY

VW Tiguan or similar|Automatic|4×4 (IFAR) | 2022-2024 New Model

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
  • 176 C02 g/km
  • Adjustable Steering
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
  • Airbags
  • Fog Lamps
SORENTO

Kia Sorento or similar | Automatic | 4×4 (SFAN) | 2022-2024 New Model

Group: O2 Reservations are made by car category only. We cannot guarantee a specific car model.

  • 5 Passengers
  • 4 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
  • 164 C02 g/km
  • Adjustable Steering
  • Cruise Control
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
VITARA

Suzuki Vitara or similar|Manual| 4×4 (IFMN) | 2022-2024 New Model

Group F 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 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features
  • 4 Wheel Drive
  • Adjustable Steering
  • Cruise Control
  • Electronic Stability Control
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
  • Airbags
PAJERO

Mitsubishi Pajero or similar | Automatic| 4×4 (FFAR) | 2022-2024 New Model

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

  • 5 Passengers
  • 5 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
  • 213 C02 g/km
  • Adjustable Steering
  • Cruise Control
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
DUSTER

Dacia Duster or similar |Manual| 4×4 (CFMN) -2022-2024 New Model

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

  • 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
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