Iceland In June: 7 Things To Know Before You Go

Are you planning a trip to Iceland in June? We’ve got you covered with seven things you should know before you head to the land of fire and ice!

This list will include some of the best tips for visiting Iceland in June, including visiting Skoafoss, seeing lupines, and celebrating Independence Day with the locals!

From bathing in hot springs under the midnight sun and frolicking through fields of beautiful purple lupines to partying the night away at a festival or joining the locals downtown for an Independence Day parade, there’s no shortage of fun to be had and things to do in June in Iceland. 

Iceland is an outdoor playground for adventure lovers in the summer. This is the perfect time of year to take advantage of the jaw-dropping Icelandic landscapes. So lace up your hiking boots, enjoy the long daylight hours, and go explore this unique country. 

7 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland In June

The Northern Lights Aren’t Visible In Iceland In June

• Due to the extended daylight hours of summer, Iceland’s famous Northern Lights are not visible during June.
• June in Iceland boasts the “midnight sun,” with the longest days of the year, providing ample time for adventures day and night.

The Northern Lights are undeniably spectacular. In fact, tourists flock to Iceland from all around the world to witness them light up the night sky. They’re most likely to be visible from September to April when the country experiences long, dark nights.

Unfortunately, there are no Northern Lights in Iceland during June. The summer months bring extended daylight hours that are not conducive to viewing the Northern Lights.

Though there will be no Northern Lights chasing during your summer adventures, there’s a lot to love about Iceland’s midnight sun. 

June in Iceland sees the longest days of the year which means you’ll have the opportunity to adventure late into the night. You never feel pressed for time as you have nearly 24 hours at your disposal to explore the beautiful land of fire and ice. 

Although Iceland Is Colder, Pack A Swimsuit!

• In June, Iceland’s average temperature is around 48°F, making it ideal for relaxing in warm waters.
• Explore various options for hot springs, such as the famous Blue Lagoon, Reykjadalur Hot Springs, and local public swimming pools.

A bathing suit is an essential item to pack for your trip to Iceland in June. Think of sitting in a natural hot pot late at night under the glow of the midnight sun. Sounds pretty magical, doesn’t it?

The average temperature in Iceland in June hovers around 48F. Without being too cold, it’s just nippy enough to warrant relaxing in a hot spring or hot tub.

Fortunately, there’s an abundance of lagoons, hot springs, hot pots, and hot tubs to take advantage of around the county. 

The famous Blue Lagoon, known for its blue waters, swim-up bar, and lava-rock scenery, is a must-visit despite its cost. Alternatively, there are affordable choices like the Reykjadalur Hot Springs and public swimming pools in every town. In the capital, Laugardalslaug offers multiple hot tubs, including a saltwater one.

In June, The Purple Lupines Will Bloom In Iceland

• Alaskan Lupine, introduced to Iceland in 1945 for soil stabilization, has defied the odds and thrived.
• June visitors have a good chance of spotting them, especially along the south coast, with peak blooming in late June through July, occasionally into August.

Iceland is not known for being the most hospitable landscape for plants. One plant however that has managed to defy the odds is the Alaskan Lupine.

Since its introduction to the country in 1945, when it was brought in as an attempt to revegetate a country whose soil was found to erode at an alarming rate, the Alaskan Lupine has thrived. 

The Alaskan Lupine is a strikingly beautiful flower standing roughly 120cm tall as it spreads across the Icelandic landscape in a vast sea of purple.

If you’re visiting Iceland during June there’s a good chance you’ll see these flowers, especially along the south coast as they tend to bloom in late June and last through July and occasionally into August. There is an abundance of Lupines near Skogafoss, for great picture opportunities!

Despite their beauty and the richness they provide to the soil, the Alaskan Lupine has long been a point of contention among Icelanders. Many consider it to be an invasive species that has taken over the landscape. 

June Means Celebrating Fisherman’s Day

• Established in 1938, Fisherman’s Day is a vital celebration in Iceland’s culture and economy, pays tribute to the fishing industry.
• It’s a special occasion for fishermen to reunite with their families, for the public to gain insight into the industry, and to honor those who have lost their lives at sea.

Fisherman’s Day, crucial in Iceland’s culture and economy, honors its fishing industry. Started in 1938, it’s celebrated on the first Sunday in June. It’s a time for fishermen to join their families, the public to learn about the industry, and to remember those lost at sea.

If you’re looking for things to do in Reykjavik in June, the Festival of the Sea marks Fisherman’s Day with food, music, boat tours, and more, alongside free admission to the Reykjavik Maritime Museum.

Other towns, especially harbor towns like Grindavik, also celebrate with their own festivities. These events offer a glimpse into the profession that’s pivotal to Iceland’s prosperity.

June 17th is Iceland’s Independence Day [Celebrate With Locals!]

• June 17th is a significant day in Iceland as it marks Independence Day, celebrating the country’s full independence from Denmark in 1944.
• Across the nation, you’ll find lively celebrations, with Reykjavik being a focal point.

There are plenty of things to do in Iceland in June on the 17th when the country celebrates its Independence Day. In 1944 Iceland gained complete independence from Denmark and became an independent republic.

The date, June 17, was chosen because it marks the birthday of Jón Sigurdsson, a crucial leader in the independence movement. 

There are celebrations throughout the country, most notably in Reykjavik where the streets are filled with parades, helium balloons, bouncy castles, hot dogs, candy, music performances, circus acts, and dancers. 

The celebrations have evolved to center largely around family-friendly entertainment for the children so if you’re traveling with kids this could be the perfect opportunity to keep them entertained for the day while joining the locals in celebrating their independence and embracing Icelandic culture. 

June Weather In Iceland Brings Endless Daylight And The Secret Solstice Festival

• Experience 72 hours of nonstop music and dancing under the endless daylight of an Icelandic June. Held in Reykjavik, it’s a unique celebration with events in natural wonders like lava tunnels, glaciers, and volcanoes.
• Secret Solstice features top acts like Foo Fighters, Black Eyed Peas, and Radiohead, plus emerging talents from Iceland and beyond.

If you’re looking for what to do in June in Iceland, what better way to capitalize on the endless daylight than by attending the Secret Solstice Music Festival.

This 72-hour festival is held in Reykjavik over the longest days of the year so attendees can sing and dance the night away under a sunlit sky. The party (almost) does not stop. 

The heart of the festival is held in Laugardalur, a park in downtown Reykjavik, with intimate side events happening in the middle of nature.

Past side concerts have taken place in lava tunnels, glaciers, and the center of volcanoes. The festival is truly unique to Iceland in every way. 

Past artists have included headliners such as the Foo Fighters, Black Eyed Peas, and Radiohead, as well as up-and-coming artists from Iceland and around the world. There’s no shortage of high-quality music. So get some rest leading up to the festival and party until early morning with the locals as the midnight sun lights the way. 

Expect To Be Bugged By Midges In Iceland In June

• In 2015, two types of midges, one of which bites, became noticeable in Iceland, particularly near water sources during calm, windless weather.
• To minimize encounters, avoid water areas, keep windows closed at night, or use lavender spray to embrace the outdoor experience.

Iceland in June is an outdoor lover’s paradise with lush green landscapes, wildflowers, thundering waterfalls, and reasonable weather. However, with the thrills of summer come the pesky midges and their bites. But in 2015, two types of midges (one that bites and one that doesn’t) made their presence known.

Midges are common near water, especially in calm, windless weather. They’ve spread to the south and west but are less common in Reykjavik.

To minimize encounters, you can avoid lakes and rivers, keep windows closed at night, or use lavender spray as a repellent. However, they’re often part of the experience if you’re exploring Iceland’s beautiful outdoors in June.

So grab some Caladryl or similar anti-itch cream and embrace the great outdoors. 

Weather in June in Iceland Tips

Traveling to Iceland in June is an amazing experience and while you will not see the Northern Lights, the midnight sun offers endless opportunities to see incredible lush green landscapes, blooming lupines, and various summer activities. However, June weather in Iceland is still unpredictable, requiring visitors to be well-prepared. Here are my tips!

Iceland weather in June:

• Northern Lights in June: Summer is not a favorable time of year for Northern Lights viewing in Iceland. The near 24-hour daylight means the skies are too bright and your chances of seeing the northern lights in June in Iceland are not possible.
• Beginning of Summer: June marks the start of summer in Iceland. Expect milder temperatures and much longer daylight hours due to the midnight sun.
• Average Temperatures: Iceland temperature in June typically ranges from about 9°C to 15°C (48°F to 59°F), though it can feel cooler with the wind.
• Rainfall: Rain is still possible, so pack a waterproof jacket. However, June tends to be one of the drier months

Reykjavík Weather in June:

• City Weather: Reykjavik enjoys similar temperatures to the rest of the country, but it can be slightly warmer due to its coastal location.
• Outdoor Activities: With the pleasant weather, it’s a great time to explore the city’s outdoor cafes, parks, and coastal walks.
• Long Days: Take advantage of the long daylight hours for sightseeing; the sun sets very late, if at all.
• Explore by Foot or Bike: With the mild weather and extended daylight, consider exploring Reykjavik by foot or renting a bike.

Additional Weather Tips

• Insect Repellent: In some areas, especially near lakes and rivers, you might encounter small midges or mosquitoes. Make sure to add Insect repellent to your Iceland packing list for June.
• Layered Clothing: Iceland in June weather can still be unpredictable, so dress in layers that you can easily add or remove.
• Sun Protection: With long daylight hours, don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen.
• June driving in Iceland: Roads, including those in the highlands, are generally open, but always check current conditions for more remote areas.

We’re thrilled you’ve chosen to spend part of your summer in the land of fire and ice. With reasonable weather in Iceland in June, long daylight hours, and a thriving natural landscape, the possibilities for memorable adventurers are endless. There’s a reason it’s one of the peak tourist months.

If you can embrace the larger crowds, you’re in for the trip of a lifetime. Let us know if you have any questions as you go about preparing for your trip to Iceland in June.