The Top 13 Places to Visit in Iceland in Summer: The Ultimate Guide
Are you wondering what places to visit in Iceland in Summer? I’ve got you covered!
Iceland is a place of awe-inspiring beauty and endless adventure. Having visited Iceland myself, I can tell you it’s a destination like no other. I went in the fall because I had a dream of seeing the Northern Lights, and let me tell you, it was magical!
However, if you’re planning a trip to Iceland, summer is the best time to visit many of its incredible attractions. The days are long, and the sun barely sets, giving you endless daylight to explore.
While the weather is still cool and might not fit most people’s idea of “summer weather,” it’s generally sunny and perfect for sightseeing. The weather is similar to the start of winter in Michigan, so is quite pleasant for outdoor activities.
Summer isn’t the best time to catch the aurora borealis because of the Midnight Sun, but you might decide that the trade-off is worth it depending on what kind of an experience you’re looking for during your trip.
The longer summer days mean you can pack in more activities and experience the diverse landscapes without the worry of bad weather or extreme cold. So, if you’re ready for an unforgettable adventure, let’s dive into the top 13 places to visit in Iceland in summer!
The Ring Road
The Ring Road, also known as Route 1, is a 1,332-kilometer (828-mile) highway that circles the entire island of Iceland, covering most of the country’s stunning landscapes.
It’s best to travel this route in the summer when the weather is nicer and the roads are clear of snow. The Ring Road is really popular because it offers a full tour of Iceland’s diverse scenery, from majestic waterfalls and volcanic craters to serene forests and charming towns. If you have about 10 days or more, you can really enjoy this great sampling of Iceland.
While the Golden Circle is a shorter route showcasing some of Iceland’s most famous sites, the Ring Road gives you a more extensive journey, perfect for seeing the full range of what Iceland has to offer.
Here are four of my favorite attractions along the Ring Road which attest to the incredible diversity of Iceland’s landscapes and highlight the country’s natural beauty in all its forms.
Hveragerdi
Hveragerdi is a delightful town known for its geothermal activity. Located just 45 minutes from Reykjavík, it’s a great starting point for your Ring Road adventure.
Here, you can soak in natural hot springs and wander through the geothermal park, where steam rises from the ground and hot springs bubble.
The town is also famous for its greenhouses, which use geothermal heat to grow fresh produce year-round. What an amazing mix of natural wonders and local culture!
Skógafoss Waterfall
Although we have many waterfalls in Michigan they just don’t compare to Skógafoss! It is one of Iceland’s largest and most breathtaking waterfalls, with a drop of 60 meters (197 feet) and a width of 25 meters (82 feet).
You can walk right up to the base of the falls and feel the mist on your face, or climb the 370 steps to the top for a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
The waterfall’s constant spray means you’ll probably see a beautiful rainbow while you visit! Skógafoss really does make you feel the raw power of nature up close.
Hallormsstaðaskógur Forest
Hallormsstaðaskógur Forest is Iceland’s largest forest, offering a refreshing change of scenery with its lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere. Located in the eastern part of the country, you’ll love this forest if you’re a hiker or camper.
There are lots of trails leading to scenic viewpoints, serene lakes, and peaceful picnic spots. It’s a perfect place to dive into nature and enjoy the unique beauty of Iceland’s countryside.
Hverfell Volcano
Hverfell is a striking volcanic crater located in the Mývatn region in northern Iceland. The crater is approximately 1 kilometer (0.62 miles) in diameter and 140 meters (459 feet) deep, which means an incredible hiking experience.
The hike to the top is fairly easy and ends with breathtaking views of the surrounding lava fields and mountains. I loved the stark, otherworldly landscape of Hverfell!
The Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most popular driving routes, and for good reason. This shorter route can be done in just a day trip and takes you to some of the country’s most famous and spectacular sites, all within a few hours’ drive from Reykjavík.
It’s best to explore the Golden Circle in the summer when the days are long, and you have plenty of daylight to enjoy the attractions. While it’s a shorter route than the Ring Road, the Golden Circle packs a punch with its amazing geological features and historical sites.
Here are three must-see stops along the Golden Circle that showcase the very best of Iceland.
Thingvellir National Park
Thingvellir National Park is a place of great historical and geological significance. This is where the world’s first parliament was established in 930 AD, and it’s also located on the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Walking through the park, you can literally stand between two continents! The rift valley, with its dramatic cliffs and clear blue waters, is stunning. You’ll love exploring the hiking trails and learning about the rich history that makes this place so special.
The Geysir Geothermal Area
The Geysir Geothermal Area is home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, shooting hot water high into the air. The geothermal area is filled with bubbling hot springs and steaming vents, making it a fascinating place to explore.
You can walk around the area and see the other smaller geysers and hot springs, each with its own unique characteristics. It’s an amazing display of nature’s power, and you’ll be in awe of the sights and sounds of this geothermal wonderland.
Gullfoss Waterfall
Gullfoss, or “Golden Falls,” is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. The Hvítá river plunges in two stages, creating a powerful and mesmerizing cascade. There are several viewing platforms where you can get up close to this natural wonder.
The sheer force and beauty of Gullfoss is truly awe-inspiring. On sunny days, you can often see rainbows in the mist, adding to the magical experience. Don’t forget to take lots of photos – this is one sight you’ll want to remember forever.
Wildlife Watching in the Westfjords
If you love wildlife, then a visit to Látrabjarg in the Westfjords is an absolute must. This remote and rugged part of Iceland is known for its stunning cliffs and incredible birdlife, especially puffins.
Summer is the perfect time to visit Látrabjarg because the puffins are nesting, and the waters are teeming with whales. Here’s why you should add this unique experience to your Iceland adventure.
Puffin Sighting at Látrabjarg
Látrabjarg is the best place in Iceland to see puffins up close. The cliffs here are home to millions of seabirds, including these adorable puffins. You can walk along the top of the cliffs and get incredibly close to the birds as they nest and care for their chicks.
The puffins are so accustomed to humans that they often come quite close, giving you amazing photo opportunities. Watching them fly in and out of their burrows and interact with each other is a truly delightful experience.
Whale Watching in the Westfjords
The waters around the Westfjords are perfect for whale watching, and summer is the best time to spot these majestic creatures. You can join a boat tour from one of the small towns in the area and head out into the fjords to see humpback whales, minke whales, and sometimes even blue whales.
The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can tell you all about the different species and their behaviors. Seeing a whale breach the surface or a pod swimming by is an unforgettable experience that highlights the incredible marine life of Iceland.
Go swimming in Blue Lagoon
No trip to Iceland is complete without a visit to the Blue Lagoon. This iconic geothermal spa, located in a lava field near Reykjavík, offers a unique and relaxing experience you won’t want to miss. All our hot springs in Wisconsin are man made, so this natural spring will blow you away!
The warm, milky-blue waters are rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, which are great for your skin and perfect for relieving stress. The lagoon maintains a comfortable temperature year-round, making it ideal for a leisurely soak surrounded by stunning scenery.
Besides soaking, you can enjoy in-water massages, silica mud masks, and other spa treatments, as well as saunas and steam rooms carved into the lava rock. The picturesque setting, with bright blue water against black lava rocks and green moss, creates a surreal landscape that’s perfect for photos.
Celebrations of the Summer Solstice and Festivals in Reykjavík
Reykjavík really comes alive in the summer, especially during the Summer Solstice! This is when the days are the longest, and the city is filled with a variety of festivals and celebrations. The Summer Solstice, also known as the Midnight Sun, is a time when the sun barely sets, and everyone makes the most of the endless daylight with outdoor events, music, and parties.
One of the most popular events is the Secret Solstice Festival, which happens in June and features local and international musicians across various genres, creating an electric atmosphere.
Reykjavík also hosts several other fantastic summer festivals. If you visit in May, the Reykjavík Arts Festival is a rich mix of concerts, performances, and exhibitions. In August, don’t miss the Reykjavík Jazz Festival, which brings together jazz musicians from around the world for a series of fantastic performances.
These festivals offer a mix of concerts, performances, exhibitions, and street parties and are a great opportunity to dive into Icelandic culture.
Vestmannaeyjar, the Westman Islands
The Westman Islands, or Vestmannaeyjar, are a hidden gem off the south coast of Iceland, made up of 15 islands with Heimaey being the only inhabited one. Visiting the archipelago is like stepping into another world, full of stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and unique wildlife.
On Heimaey, you can explore the charming town, visit the Eldheimar Museum to learn about the dramatic 1973 volcanic eruption, and hike up Eldfell for breathtaking views. These islands are also home to one of the largest puffin colonies in the world, and boat tours offer the chance to see them up close as well as the dramatic cliffs and sea caves.
If the outdoor’s is your thing you’ll love the hiking trails, taking a rib boat tours, or even a round of golf with amazing views. You can get to the Westman Islands on a 30-minute ferry from Landeyjahöfn or a short flight from Reykjavík.
Hiking Siglufjörður
Siglufjörður, a picturesque fishing village in North Iceland, is perfect for a few days of hiking in incredible nature. Nestled between towering mountains and a beautiful fjord, this quaint town offers stunning scenery and rich history.
You can explore some of Iceland’s best hiking trails, like the route to Hólsskarð Pass for panoramic views or the Siglufjarðarskarð pass, an old trading route through lush valleys and sparkling streams. In summer, the wildflowers add bursts of color to the scenery.
After hiking, relax in the town’s cozy cafes and visit the Herring Era Museum to learn about its past as the herring fishing capital of the world. Siglufjörður’s natural beauty, excellent trails, and interesting history make it a must-visit on your summer trip to Iceland.
Iceland’s Island Gem: Flatey
Flatey is a small island in Breiðafjörður Bay that feels like stepping back in time. With its colorful houses, slow pace of life, and stunning natural beauty, Flatey is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.
You can explore the island on foot, as it’s only about 2 kilometers long and 1 kilometer wide. Wander through the picturesque village, visit the historic Flatey Church with its beautiful frescoes, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
If you’re a birdwatcher you’ll love Flatey, as it’s home to numerous seabirds, including puffins and Arctic terns. Visiting Flatey offers a unique glimpse into traditional Icelandic life and a chance to unwind in a truly magical setting.
Explore Akureyri—the Unofficial Capital of North Iceland
Akureyri, the largest town in North Iceland, is a city that I absolutely loved. Nestled at the head of a fjord and surrounded by snow-capped mountains, Akureyri offers a mix of natural beauty and urban charm.
You can wander through the Akureyri Botanical Gardens, visit the local museums and art galleries, and enjoy the fantastic cafes and restaurants. The iconic Akureyri Church provides great views over the town and fjord.
As a great base for outdoor activities, you can go hiking, take a whale-watching tour, or even play a round of golf at the northernmost 18-hole golf course in the world. You can even go to a beer spa and soak your worries away in hops! So much fun!
Sail Among Icebergs on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most stunning and unique attractions. Located in the southeast of the country, this breathtaking lagoon is filled with floating icebergs that have broken off from the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull glacier.
You can take a boat tour to get up close to these massive chunks of ice, which come in various shades of blue and white. The sight of icebergs drifting in the crystal-clear water against the backdrop of the glacier is truly mesmerizing.
You might even spot seals swimming around and lounging on the ice! Visiting Jökulsárlón is like stepping into a frozen wonderland, and it’s an experience that perfectly captures the magical beauty of Iceland’s natural landscapes.
Game of Thrones on at Snæfellsnes Peninsula
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature,” is a must-visit if you’re a Game of Thrones fan. Located in western Iceland, about a 2-hour drive from Reykjavík, this area has dramatic coastlines, rugged mountains, and striking lava fields that you’ll recognize from the show.
Kirkjufell Mountain, seen as Arrowhead Mountain in the series, is a highlight with its unique shape and stunning surroundings, making it one of Iceland’s most photographed spots. Nearby, you can check out the black sand beaches of Djúpalónssandur and the cool basalt columns of Gerðuberg.
But it’s not just about Game of Thrones here. Snæfellsnes is also home to Snæfellsjökull glacier, sitting atop a dormant volcano and inspiring Jules Verne’s “Journey to the Center of the Earth.” You can join guided tours to explore the glacier, lava caves, and even go whale watching. Not to be missed!
Explore Mývatn’s Ancient Lava Caves and Geothermal Pools
Mývatn is a fantastic region in North Iceland, about a 6-hour drive from Reykjavík, perfect for exploring ancient lava caves and relaxing in geothermal pools.
One must-see spot is Grjótagjá, an ancient lava cave with a crystal-clear geothermal pool inside. Although you can’t swim in it because of the high temperatures, the steamy atmosphere and blue water make it a magical place to visit.
Nearby, the Mývatn Nature Baths, known as the “Blue Lagoon of the North,” offer warm, mineral-rich waters and stunning views of the surrounding lava fields and mountains. It’s the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring.
The area also features otherworldly pseudocraters and the Hverir geothermal field with bubbling mud pots and fumaroles. Mývatn’s mix of ancient lava caves, geothermal pools, and unique geological features make it one of the most incredible places to discover Iceland’s volcanic activity. We loved it!
Explore a glacier with a tour guide
Exploring a glacier is one of the coolest things you can do in Iceland, and doing it with a tour guide makes it even better. There are several glaciers you can visit, but some of the most popular ones are Vatnajökull, Langjökull, and Sólheimajökull.
When you join a guided tour, you’ll get all the gear you need, like crampons and ice axes, and your guide will show you how to use them. The guides are super knowledgeable and make sure you’re safe while you explore the glacier’s ice formations, crevasses, and ice caves. They’ll also share interesting facts about the glaciers and how they’re formed.
One of the best parts is getting to walk on the glacier itself. The experience of crunching over the ice and seeing the incredible blue hues up close is unforgettable. If you’re lucky, your guide might take you into an ice cave, where the ice walls glow with an ethereal blue light.
Tips for Traveling to Iceland in Summer
Midnight Sun Instead of Northern Lights
In the summer, you won’t see the Northern Lights because of the Midnight Sun, where the sun barely sets. This means you get really long days with almost 24 hours of daylight, perfect for packing in lots of activities and sightseeing without worrying about it getting dark.
Flexible Plans with Longer Days
With endless daylight, your schedule can be super flexible. You can start your day early or stay out late, fitting in more adventures and exploring at your own pace. Whether you’re hiking, driving, or just soaking in the views, you’ll have plenty of time to do it all.
Ice Galore Even in Summer
Even though it’s summer, there’s still plenty of ice to see in Iceland. Glaciers are massive and beautiful, and you can go on glacier hikes or explore ice caves. Don’t think for a minute that just because it’s summer, all the ice melts!
Iceland’s Summer Weather
Iceland’s summer weather is cool and can be unpredictable. You’ll get some sunny days, but it can also be windy and rainy. Dress in layers so you can adjust to the changing weather, and always have a waterproof jacket handy. Sturdy shoes are a must for all the exploring you’ll be doing.
Places to Visit in Iceland in Summer: The Wrap-Up
Iceland in summer offers endless adventures with its stunning landscapes, long days, and unique experiences. Keep these tips in mind, embrace the Midnight Sun, and get ready for an unforgettable Icelandic adventure
Guest Bio
A foodie retired from a career of hospitality, I now enjoy discovering Michigan and Wisconsin during the warmer months, and winters in Austin, Texas. These days, my pal Rocco and I enjoy the forest and lakes in Central Wisconsin. Rocco, an Italian water dog and natural truffle hunter, brings many new adventures to my days of wanting to relax and slow down a bit. My comfort of travel is very different now than in my earlier days backpacking through Europe in the mid 70s! As a content creator I’m discovering I’m able to challenge myself with new opportunities that I never dreamed possible! My recent discoveries can be enjoyed at www.
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