Why Holidays to Iceland in the Summer Are a Top Bucket List Item

Iceland is well-known as one of the best winter destinations in the world, and the land of fire and ice never disappoints. However, many travellers dislike the cold, find the rigours of outdoor winter sports and excursions a little tiring, or want the opportunity to explore this remarkable country during the summer, when the days are longer, the weather warmer, and the conditions more comfortable.

As a summer holiday location, Iceland is considered a hidden gem, as it is often overlooked in favour of the well-trodden, crowded tourist destinations in Southern Europe.

Iceland’s cool climate provides a sanctuary from the rising global temperatures and the threat of forest fires that many other destinations face during the summer months. This combination of natural beauty and climatic reprieve makes Iceland an ideal summer retreat for those looking to experience something extraordinary.

Offering both adventure and relief from increasingly hot temperatures and forest fires. Iceland’s breathtaking landscape, including majestic waterfalls, striking volcanic terrain, and expansive glaciers, offers a unique and refreshing escape from the sweltering heat. Travellers can explore the Midnight Sun, allowing for extended hours of daylight to enjoy activities such as hiking, whale watching, and soaking in natural hot springs.

What to Expect From Visiting Iceland in the Summer

Of course, Iceland is towards the top of the Northern Hemisphere, and its proximity to the Arctic Circle creates unique weather conditions. During the winter, it can be dark for as much as three months of the year, contrasting with the midnight sun summer months.

Summer in Iceland peaks during the Summer Solstice in June, which means that from May until August, it is light for roughly 21 hours of the day—giving you ample time to enjoy whichever activities you wish without needing to return to your accommodation when night falls.

During the summer, conditions are calmer for kayaking, boat trips, cruises, and whale watching, and it is easier to travel between the smaller islands. It is also an ideal time to spot Arctic wildlife; more on this shortly!

Although the attractions and day trips in the summer may differ from the winter, they are no less incredible. Options include visiting geysers and glaciers, seeing the impressive waterfalls thundering away during the soft ambient evening sunlight, or booking a horse-rising adventure to meet some of the beautiful Icelandic horses.

The lush, green countryside, mountains and hills are perfect for hiking, and at this time of year, the average temperature reaches around 25°C —pleasantly warm for a country this far north.

Note that to the west, close to Reykjavik and many of the largest glaciers, the summer temperature remains slightly cooler. The warmest weather is found in the Eastfjords, which is an optimal region for outdoor activities.

Must-Try Experiences During a Holiday to Iceland in the Summer

While every guest is different, and you might prioritise a luxury city break in the capital, a gourmet tour of the charming fishing villages to try the freshest seafood or want to enjoy camping and hiking through a national park, we’ve collated some favourite day tours and trips from the Baltic Travel Company team.

Viewing the Icelandic Summer Wildlife

Iceland is a great place to see gorgeous, tiny puffins. They return to Iceland in May each year after spending the previous months far away across the Atlantic. The puffins nest and stay until late August, when the chicks begin to fly. There are colonies throughout Iceland, particularly around Lundey and Akurey islands, near Reykjavik, and in the Westman Islands.

Summer in Iceland is also a brilliant time to experience a boat tour or cruise; with so many species of whales, dolphins and sharks, it would be impossible to list them all. Whale watching season peaks in summer, and you can spot basking sharks, harbour porpoises, humpback whales, orca, minke whales and even potentially the awesome sight of blue whales a little further out.

Relaxing in Iceland’s Geothermal Pools

The Blue Lagoon is a very well-known attraction in Iceland. It is a geothermal lake with waters infused with minerals that feel like a luxurious spa treatment. The clean, warming water is rejuvenating and relaxing, with a spa you can visit for a massage or beauty treatment.

For a less usual experience, you can also try a polar plunge off the shores of the black or red sand beaches. The water close to the shore is cold, but guided swimming trips can be refreshing – with dry blankets and warming drinks and snacks served afterwards.

Kayaking and Canoeing

While the rivers and lakes are slightly warmer, kayaking and canoeing are fantastic ways to enjoy a day out, with boats and crafts available to hire for families of all ages. Some tours will take you through glacier fields, to some of the tiny, often uninhabited islands, and to secret coves and bays where you can spend quality time together.

If you prefer a less strenuous activity, a boat trip around the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is another great option. It is only accessible during the summer, sailing past landmarks like the black sand beaches at Reynisfjara and Seljalandsfoss Waterfall.

Reykjavik’s Summer Events

Reykjavik comes alive in the summer with numerous music festivals and cultural celebrations. The National Day, which marks Iceland’s independence, falls on 17th June, and the Secret Solstice musical festival and Reykjavik Pride, held in August, are lively, busy, and vibrant occasions where visitors are welcome to get involved.

During the summer, you’ll also find hundreds of village festivals celebrating the summer in almost any area from June until August. Examples like the Höfn Lobster Festival and Fishfest, hosted in Dalvík, are good options for foodies.

Seeing Iceland By Helicopter

Travelling above the astonishing landscapes of Iceland in a helicopter is a day to remember. Guests can fly over volcanoes in areas like Fagradalsfjall, seeing the ground far below change from green meadows to icy glaciers and mountain peaks.

The rugged outdoor terrain is more accessible in the summer when adventurous travellers can book hiking tours, hire four-wheel-drive vehicles, or join a group to head to Landmannalaugar to see the hot springs, geysers, and lava fields. They can also immerse themselves in the magnificence of the Westfjords, with Icelandic horse-riding in the Engidalur Valley enormously popular.

So many of our guests love to experience landscapes, cuisines, culture, wildlife and settings that are like nowhere else, you may find that a summer holiday in Iceland is everything you’ve ever wanted.

If you plan to visit Iceland in the summer, you’ll find complete itineraries, flight details and accommodation information through our detailed package guides – or you can contact our travel consultants at your convenience for recommendations about the perfect trip for you and your family.