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Iceland becomes a land of vibrant contrasts in the warm months, which provides endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. The things to do in Iceland in summer are not only as stunning as the scenery, but also include glacier lagoons, volcanic hikes, whale watching, and midnight sun strolls. The country’s mixture of fire and ice goes along with the extended daylight in a new way, making it even more fascinating. The snow has turned into green valleys, and the festivals are more vibrant, hence the travellers can come to know Iceland’s nature in the most accessible and lively form.
Top 10 Things To Do In Iceland In Summer
The things to do in Iceland in summer are basically like this: You can bathe in geothermal lagoons, then go hiking on colourful volcanic trails while enjoying the midnight sun.
1. Chase The Midnight Sun
Photo: Eric Kilby / Wikimedia Commons
Chasing the Midnight Sun in Iceland is a surreal experience, especially in peak summer when darkness barely falls. In June, the sun hardly sets, casting a warm, mellow glow that lingers endlessly, bathing mountains, waterfalls, and fjords in an ethereal light. Locals embrace this rare phenomenon—taking late-night walks, bike rides, or enjoying dinner surrounded by untouched nature. Photographers flock to northern spots like Grímsey and Akureyri, drawn by the smooth, endless twilight. The sky becomes a canvas of oranges, pinks, and purples. It’s not just extended daylight—it’s the magic of life stirring when the world sleeps.
Average Cost: N/A
Top Highlights: Endless daylight, glowing fjords and cliffs, vibrant sunsets, peaceful late-night walks
2. Take A Dip In The Blue Lagoon
Located between lava fields and moss-covered areas, the Blue Lagoon is a place of serenity and a perfect spot to relax in the middle of the geothermal region of Iceland. It not only had the mineral-rich waters that kept a comfortable temperature of about 37-39°C, but the air was also very cool in summer, making it perfect. The light-blue colour is a result of the presence of silica and algae, which are substances that have been proven to be beneficial to the skin. Visitors have been known to treat themselves with different services like in-water massages, steam caves, and the iconic silica mud mask while they are soaking in the warm water.
Average Cost: 7,500 – 13,500 ISK / ₹4,500 – 8,000
Top Highlights: Geothermal spa, silica mud mask, warm mineral-rich waters, volcanic surroundings
3. Hike To Glymur Waterfall
Photo: Jabbi / Wikimedia Commons
If you’re looking for what to do in Iceland in summer, hiking to Glymur Waterfall is an unforgettable choice. Once known as the tallest waterfall in Iceland, Glymur is tucked away in the Hvalfjörður fjord, hidden from plain sight. Reaching it means trekking through lush valleys, lava caves, and rivers. The trail, open in summer, reveals moss-covered cliffs and sweeping canyon views. A highlight is the daring log bridge crossing over the Botnsá River. Towering at 198 meters, Glymur plunges into a deep gorge. The 4–6 hour hike is perfect for long summer days and breathtaking nature.
Average Cost: N/A
Top Highlights: Canyon trail, log bridge crossing, 198m-high waterfall, panoramic cliff views
4. Explore The Golden Circle
Among the top things to see in Iceland in summers, the Golden Circle stands out as a scenic route filled with natural wonders. Summer brings clear roads and long daylight hours, making the journey even more enjoyable. Start at Þingvellir National Park, located between two tectonic plates and known as the site of Iceland’s first parliament. Continue to the Haukadalur geothermal area, where Strokkur erupts up to 30 meters high. End with the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, sparkling in the sun. Whether driving yourself or taking a tour, this route captures Iceland’s raw, unforgettable beauty.
Average Cost: 9,000 – 18,000 ISK / ₹5,400 – 10,800 (guided tour)
Top Highlights: Þingvellir tectonic plates, erupting geysers, Gullfoss waterfall, scenic drive
5. Whale Watching In Húsavík
Photo: Okras / Wikimedia Commons
Húsavík, which is mostly known as the whale watching capital of Iceland, was a perfect way to meet the ocean’s most beautiful animals. Summer means calm seas and good visibility, which will give you a lot of chances to see humpback, minke, and even blue whales. Boats leave Húsavík harbour every day, where a traditional oak boat or a RIB speedboat can take you for a trip in Skjálfandi Bay. The whole experience is much more than just looking at the whales, as the boats often follow the whales when they perform their acrobatics, like breaching, tail-slapping, or feeding in the nutrient-rich waters.
Average Cost: 10,500 – 16,500 ISK / ₹6,300 – 9,900
Top Highlights: Humpback and minke whale sightings, puffins, oak boats, calm northern bay
6. Camp In Landmannalaugar
Photo: Nancy O’Connor / Unsplash
In the Icelandic Highlands, Landmannalaugar is one of the most unique things to do in Iceland in summer, and it is a heaven for outdoor enthusiasts. The area is widely known for its several-colored rhyolite mountains, hot steam coming from the fumarole, and hot springs that are naturally made and are good for a post-hike bath. The place is accessible only in summer through F-roads; therefore, it is the best place for open camping. Rangers can wander at the embarkation point of the famous Laugavegur Trail or opt for shorter day paths through the lava beds and mossy valleys.
Average Cost: 1,500 – 3,000 ISK / ₹900 – 1,800 (camping fee)
Top Highlights: Rhyolite mountains, natural hot springs, Laugavegur Trail, highland scenery
7. Visit The Westman Islands
Photo: Frugal Flyer / Unsplash
The Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar) are a perfect summer destination that is full of volcanic history, nature, and coastal charm. A very short ferry trip from the south coast, the islands are full of towering sea cliffs, picturesque hiking paths, and the largest puffin colony on the planet. On Heimaey, the principal island, you can climb the Eldfell volcano, which was created during the 1973 eruption and get a bird’s eye view of the Atlantic Ocean. The volcano museum on the island is quite vivid in its narration of how the lava came and changed the town.
Average Cost: 2,250 – 3,000 ISK / ₹1,350 – 1,800 (ferry)
Top Highlights: Eldfell volcano, puffin cliffs, lava museum, scenic coastal hikes
8. Attend The Secret Solstice Festival
Photo: Briana Tozour / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Secret Solstice Festival in Reykjavík blends music, culture, and the never-setting sun, making it one of the most unforgettable summer events in Iceland. Held around the summer solstice in June, the festival celebrates the Midnight Sun with performances by local and international artists on multiple stages. What truly sets it apart are its one-of-a-kind venues—concerts in lava tunnels, raves in geothermal pools, and glacier parties. Beyond the music, visitors enjoy Reykjavík’s buzzing nightlife, food trucks, and art installations. The experience of dancing under a sunlit midnight sky is a surreal highlight of Iceland’s summer scene.
Average Cost: 27,000 – 37,500 ISK / ₹16,200 – 22,500 (festival pass)
Top Highlights: Midnight Sun concerts, lava tunnel sets, Reykjavík nightlife, global artists
9. Explore Skaftafell In Vatnajökull National Park
Photo: Marek Piwnicki / Unsplash
Located just below Europe’s largest ice sheet, Skaftafell is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. Part of Vatnajökull National Park, the area features black sand plains, birch forests, and glacial rivers—ideal for summer exploration. Well-marked trails lead to stunning sights like Svartifoss, a basalt-column waterfall, and breathtaking glacier viewpoints. Milder weather allows for longer hikes, and guided ice walks offer safe, close encounters with crevasses and ice formations. Among the most underrated summer activities to do in Iceland, Skaftafell combines peace, adventure, and the raw beauty shaped by volcanic and glacial forces over centuries.
Average Cost: 7,500 – 15,000 ISK / ₹4,500 – 9,000 (guided glacier walk)
Top Highlights: Svartifoss waterfall, glacier viewpoints, birch forests, black sand plains
10. Kayak In The Glacier Lagoon
Photo: Job Savelsberg / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Paddling through Jökulsarlón Glacier Lagoon is a completely new experience that is bound to make one fall in love with Iceland’s icy wonders. The summer period is the best time to kayak on the glacier lagoon. The cool waters and the warm weather are perfect for paddling between the icebergs, which were separated from the glacier that is named after Breiðamerkurjökull. Seals often come to the kayak, and the silence of the lagoon makes the trip more like a meditation. With sun rays reflecting from the ice, the whole lagoon shimmered in different hues of blue and white.
Average Cost: 12,000 – 16,500 ISK / ₹7,200 – 9,900
Top Highlights: Paddle past icebergs, seal encounters, peaceful blue waters, surreal landscapes
Summer in Iceland is a magical experience, whether you’re into nature, nightlife, or the novelty of 24/7 daylight. The country’s geothermal wonders, wildlife, and landscapes create the perfect playground for all travelers. The list of things to do in Iceland in summer is endless—from hiking and hot springs to whale watching and kayaking. Book your adventure today with TripXL and make every bright moment count.
Cover Photo: Susanne Jutzeler, suju-foto / Pexels
