Does the sun ever set in Iceland in summer?

Around the June solstice the sun barely dips below the horizon in much of the country, so nights stay bright. Later in summer, real darkness slowly returns.

Can I see the northern lights in summer?

No. The sky is not dark enough from roughly May to July, and the season picks up again in late summer and autumn.

When can I see puffins?

Puffins nest on sea cliffs in the warmer months. Check the current season for the location you plan to visit.

What should I wear in summer?

Layers, a waterproof jacket, warm mid-layers and sturdy shoes. Weather changes quickly.

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes, summer is busy. Bookings with us should be made at least 1 hour before pick-up, but earlier is better in high season.

Seasons & weather

Iceland in Summer: Midnight Sun, Puffins and Long Days Outside

Drive Reykjavik team · 5 min read · September 2026

Iceland in summer is a very different country from the one you see in winter photos. The days stretch on and on, the valleys turn green, birds return to the sea cliffs and roads open to places that are shut for much of the year. It is also the busiest season, so a little planning pays off.

This guide explains the midnight sun, what the weather is really like, when to look for puffins and how to get the most from the long days.

The midnight sun

Around the June solstice the sun barely dips below the horizon, so the sky never gets properly dark in most of the country. In Reykjavík you get light through the night, with a long golden hour that seems to go on for ages. It is wonderful for photography and for sightseeing late in the evening, and it means you can start or finish a tour at almost any time.

Pink and purple evening sky over a moss-covered stream in the Icelandic countryside — Summer evenings stretch on, with soft light and colourful skies late into the night.Photo: Nextvoyage / Pexels

The flip side is sleep. If you are sensitive to light, bring a good eye mask, because many hotel rooms are bright at midnight. And keep in mind that the northern lights are not visible in summer, because the sky is not dark enough. See our guide to the best time to see the northern lights if that is a priority.

Weather in summer

Summer is milder, but it is not tropical. Temperatures are generally cool and pleasant rather than hot, and the weather can change within an hour, with sun, wind, rain and cloud all in one day. Layers and a waterproof jacket are the rule in every season. Check our month-by-month weather guide for more detail.

Puffins and wildlife

Atlantic puffins come ashore to nest on grassy sea cliffs, and summer is the time to see them. The exact season depends on the location and the year, but it is generally from around spring to late summer, so check current dates before you plan a trip around them. Please keep a respectful distance and never chase or touch the birds.

Atlantic puffin standing on a grassy slope with sea in the background — Puffins nest on grassy sea cliffs during the summer months.Photo: X1ntao ZHOU / Pexels

Summer is also the season for whale watching trips from the harbour and for birdlife along the coast. Operators set their own seasons and prices, so check current details directly.

What to do with long days

Golden Circle: Þingvellir, the Geysir area and Gullfoss are all open and green. See our Golden Circle guide.
South Coast: waterfalls, black sand and glacier views, with long daylight for a big day. Read about the South Coast day trip.
Hot springs and lagoons: a soak feels good in any season, and evenings are long enough to fit one in.
Highland roads: many mountain roads open only in summer, and most need a suitable vehicle and a careful check of conditions.

Aerial view of a green Icelandic valley with several waterfalls running down the slopes under low cloud — Summer turns Iceland's valleys vivid green, with waterfalls fed by melting snow.Photo: Rino Adamo / Pexels

Early, mid and late summer

Early summer brings the brightest nights and fresh green growth, while the middle of the season is usually the warmest and busiest. Late summer starts to bring back darker evenings and a hint of autumn colour, and it can be a calmer time to travel. Each period has its own character, so choose according to what you most want to see.

Planning tips for peak season

Book popular tours, accommodation and spa slots well ahead, since summer is busy.
Start early at the most popular places to enjoy them with fewer people.
Use the long daylight, but still allow rest: a day with a 6 a.m. start and a midnight finish is exhausting.
Check road conditions on road.is, even in summer, and be careful on gravel roads.
Bring a refillable bottle: tap water in Iceland is generally safe to drink.

Why a private driver suits long summer days

Long daylight means long days, and not everyone wants to spend them behind the wheel. With a private tour you have your own driver and you travel in your own car or van, so you can stop at whatever catches your eye and linger where the light is good. Economy (Tesla) takes 1 to 4 passengers, Van (Mercedes Vito) takes 5 to 7, and a minibus for 8 to 16 is available on request.

See our private tours for ideas. For your arrival, our Keflavík to Reykjavík transfer starts from 18,900 kr per car, with a fixed price and 45 minutes of free waiting. Your driver meets you in arrivals with a name sign, and you should add your flight number when you book. Message us on WhatsApp at +354 777 3949 with your plans.

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