Your Ultimate Guide to Iceland in July

While the rest of the world suffers from the summer heat, Iceland’s temperature in July is perfect for exploring. Vegetation flourishes, and roads open up this month. With so many reasons to visit Iceland in July, you have no excuse not to go on an adventure of your own.

The answer is - definitely yes! Visiting Iceland in July is probably one of the best decisions you can make. The weather is nicer, the landscape is covered in greenery, and nature is full of life! If you want to experience Icelandic summer fully, we advise you to take part in one of the hiking or trekking tours.

The average daytime temperature in July is 55 °F (13 °C), but it can reach up to 68 °F (20°C). While not exactly tropical, the mild weather and abundant daylight allow you to make the most out of the Icelandic summer. That being said, Iceland’s weather is known to be unpredictable, so make sure you are prepared for any curveball the island may throw at you. Here you can find more information about the weather in Iceland.

It’s just unlikely. The Northern Lights can only be viewed when it is very dark outside, whereas July is one of the lightest times of the year. That being said, you’ll leave with a great excuse to come back to Iceland in the winter!

If you're wondering what to wear in Iceland in July, the key is to be ready for anything — from sunny hikes to chilly evenings. Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable despite the summer sun, so layering is essential. Here’s a practical packing list to help you prepare:

• Breathable tops
• Durable trousers
• Sweaters
• Thermals
• Gloves
• Scarves 
• Swimwear
• Hiking boots
• Thick socks
• Sunglasses
• Eye mask for sleeping 
• Shorts – hey, it’s still summer!

Icelandic summer only picks up speed in July. It’s the busiest month of the year and one with the best activities. Below, we have compiled some of the top ones, which you can use as your very own to-do list. A list of activities you must complete if you want to make July the most memorable month of the year.

For those looking to dive deeper into Iceland's magic, curated summer tours and packages offer the perfect way to experience everything this season has to offer, from adventure-packed days to serene escapes. Explore these options to craft your ideal Icelandic summer journey.

Iceland’s lava tube caves, shaped by ancient volcanic eruptions, offer an unforgettable underground adventure. While snow blocks many cave entrances for most of the year, July opens the door to exploration. With clear paths and milder weather, it’s the perfect time to crawl, climb, and marvel at this hidden world's eerie rock formations and pitch-dark chambers.

Many of Iceland’s best hikes are only accessible during the summer months, making July a rare opportunity to see some of the island’s most breathtaking views. 

One must-do July hike is Glymur Waterfall, just an hour outside of Reykjavik. This tour combines Iceland’s second-tallest waterfall with stunning bay and mountain scenery, making it ideal for any adventurer.

More advanced hikers can embark on the Thorsmork hike. According to popular lore, this valley is said to have been formed by the crash of Thor’s mighty hammer against the Earth. Guides will bring you up close to some of Europe’s largest glaciers. 

If you want to see as many of Iceland’s natural wonders as possible, you can’t do better than the Landmannalaugar 3-day hike. Nestled deep in the Icelandic wilderness, Landmannalaugar boasts valleys, mountains, lava fields, and volcanoes.

Gigantic glaciers, spectacular waterfalls, and rustic villages are just a few of the reasons why Iceland’s Ring Road is called one of the world’s best road trips. July is one of the best times of year to embark on this legendary journey. Plan your own road trip carefully, or join a tour to ensure that you don’t miss anything along the way.

For the independent adventurer, July is the best time for an exciting self-drive tour, who’s fun never stops. From glaciers to geysers to lagoons, customize your tour to feature your top destinations. Then leave the rest of the planning to us, rental car included. All that’s left to do is shift into gear and drive.

Long daylight hours make July an ideal time to enjoy Iceland’s great outdoors with an overnight stay in nature. Settle to sleep under the midnight sun, surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, and even natural hot springs. 

Beyond the breathtaking scenery, camping in Iceland also offers a practical advantage for travelers on a budget. It is one of the most affordable options for touring Iceland, making July a great choice for thrifty travelers. With so much accessible wilderness, it's easy to find beautiful spots to pitch your tent. You can camp almost everywhere. However, it’s best to camp in designated places for both safety and location.

As July arrives, Iceland sheds its winter layers — roads reopen, ice retreats, and travelers flood in to witness the country at its most alive. It’s a month made for adventure and unforgettable photo ops. To help you make the most of it, we’ve rounded up the best things to see in Iceland in July.

These quirky seabirds are one of Iceland’s most beloved summer icons, and July is prime puffin-viewing season. Can you say zzrrrrr? No, it’s not Icelandic slang – it’s the chainsaw-like noise that puffins in Iceland make. 

Sixty percent of the world’s puffin population resides in Iceland in the summer. During puffin season, tourists have a 100% chance of sighting the seabirds. Don’t forget your camera — these little guys love to pose, and they’ve been practicing all winter.

If puffins rule the cliffs, then whales dominate the waters. Iceland's coastal seas become a stage for these gentle giants in summer. At last, you have the chance to cross “whale watching” off your bucket list! Your chances of spotting these mighty beasts are at their highest in July when more whales have migrated north to Icelandic waters. Set out on a whale-watching tour, and your chances of seeing them are guaranteed.

Descend nearly 400 feet (120 meters) into the center of the Earth. Thrihnukagigur crater allows you to explore the inside of the volcano tour and visit the only accessible magma chamber in the world. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stand where lava once roared — a surreal blend of science and adventure. This dormant volcano is only accessible during the summer season, so make sure to stop by this July!

Visit one of the most unique peninsulas in Iceland. The Westfjords have everything you want - birds, rocks, and beautiful waterfalls. In July, the roads will be more accessible, and the waterfalls will be safer to visit.

Start from the capital of the Westfjords, Ísafjörður. It’s the biggest and the cultural center of the peninsula. You’ll find food, accommodations, and fun activities there.

If you’re not afraid of water, visit Dynjandi Waterfall - the biggest in Westfjords. In July, the location is easily accessible, and you won’t slip on the rocks (since the water won’t freeze up).

Finish up your Westfjords journey and take a walk on Rauðasandur Beach. Located on the peninsula's south coast, it’s a red sand beach perfect for an evening stroll. The Rauðasandur festival takes place on the first weekend of July.

Mountains, black sand beach, and a national park - the Snæfellsnes peninsula has it all. Located on the west side of Iceland, south of the Westfjords, the peninsula is the perfect spot for an adventurous spirit. To easily explore its highlights, consider joining one of the many guided Snæfellsnes Peninsula tours available.

The Kirkjufell mountain is as picturesque as it comes. Nicknamed the “Church Mountain,” you will pray to see it again on your next Icelandic vacation.

One of the most famous stratovolcanoes in the world, the Snæfellsjökull, is packed full of beauty. The glacier of the same name is only accessible during the summer seasons.

Visit Arnarstapi - a small town on the peninsula's southern edge. You can sleep, eat, and relax in one of the most beautiful towns in Iceland. There’s even a campsite near it.

July is the perfect month to explore Reykjavik. Find the activity that suits your wishes and try to see as much of the city as possible. To save you some time, you can find some interesting activities below.

Our Golden Circle tour will take you from Reykjavik to Iceland’s most beautiful sights. In just one circle, you’ll form golden memories that will stay with you forever. You’ll see Þingvellir National Park, the town of Hveragerði, and look at the eye of the world (Kerið crater).

Just 30 minutes from Reykjavik, you’ll see one of the most unique sights in the world - the Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel. With our guided tour, you’ll see it up close, learn a thing or two about its history, and take some jaw-dropping photos.

Don’t miss out on the ice cave experience - visit the inside of a glacier in July. Imagine yourself surrounded by thick walls of ice. It’s an experience like no other. Depart from Reykjavik and spend the next 3 to 4 hours learning about and exploring the Langjökull glacier.

You can’t have July without events and festivals. The month allows people to celebrate without getting cold or tired. With long days, mild weather, and buzzing energy, it's the perfect time for locals and visitors to come together. Below are a few standout events worth adding to your itinerary (tickets required, but the memories are priceless).

This classical music festival is one of Iceland’s most unique cultural events. Hosted in the charming village of Reykholt, the chamber music festival has occurred on the last weekend of July for over 20 years. The Chamber Music Festival features some of Iceland’s greatest musical talents.

If you like your festivals with some authentic Icelandic flavor, look no further than the Siglufjörður Folk Festival. Held at the beginning of July, this folk music festival features Icelandic and Scandinavian traditional music. Submerge yourself in Icelandic folk tradition while surrounded by the dramatic mountain peaks of Northern Iceland.

There’s probably no cooler place to be in July than at the Bræðslan music festival. The festival is held during the last weekend of July in the village of Borgafjörður Eystri, pop. 110. Of Monsters and Men have performed at Bræðslan, along with other indie artists.

Planning a vacation can be a headache for any tourist. So why not let us do it instead? Below, we listed some of the more popular tours for your July vacation. Tell us what you want, and we’ll try to make it as fun-filled as possible.

Drifting below the mighty Gullfoss waterfall, this canyon rafting tour lets you appreciate nature from a new angle. This tour is appropriate for all experience levels, so don’t be intimidated if you’re a first-time kayaker.

What about river rafting in Iceland in July? River rafting is less challenging in summer because the water is warmer and the daylight is longer. But don't underestimate Icelandic weather and wear suitable clothing for this activity.

An immersive experience that blends iconic landmarks with off-the-beaten-path gems, a summer tour includes all the best that July in Iceland has to offer. Hike glaciers, bop in the Blue Lagoon, relax in natural hot springs, go whale watching, and see all of that stunning scenery. It’s a whirlwind of nature, adventure, and unforgettable views – all packed into three days of pure Icelandic magic. This is a summer-only opportunity for the traveler who wants to get the most out of Iceland in July.

Imagine yourself snorkeling between continental plates, exploring a tectonic crack in the earth’s surface. Then imagine that crack lit up by the July northern sun, creating a stained glass window illusion called “The Cathedral.” 

The unique Silfra Fissure snorkeling is accessible all months of the year, but July is perhaps the most breathtaking. The same is the case with our Silfra scuba diving tour, which is accessible all year round but best enjoyed in the summer.

Summer is the kayaking season in Iceland. We offer fantastic sea kayak tours for every experience level and time constraint. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned kayaker, you'll find the perfect tour to suit your needs. Paddle through serene glacial lagoons, along dramatic coastlines, or explore hidden fjords surrounded by towering mountains. With so many options to choose from, you are destined for an unforgettable day on the water!

July nights in Iceland can be as warm as 14°C (57°F) and as low as 9°C (48°F). Although, the temperature can change depending on the situation.

Summer is Iceland's busiest season. July is the warmest month of the year, making it expensive. For this reason, product, transport, accommodation, and other prices might be higher in July than in June or August.

July is the perfect month for a vacation in Iceland. While it is the busiest season, meaning the number of tourists skyrockets, the greenery and warm weather alone are enough to offset the negatives. It’s the perfect month for a hike in nature and a stroll around the capital city of Reykjavik.

Like June, July also sees the midnight sun setting in. It’s a phenomenon where the sun hovers near the horizon, creating a twilight effect. This means you get longer days and shorter nights. So, in Reykjavik, the streets will be illuminated by the hovering sun. It's a perfect chance to get some photos.