Iceland in July – Weather, Activities & Travel Tips

July is Iceland’s warmest and brightest month, perfect for travelers seeking optimal conditions for outdoor exploration and unforgettable summer adventures. Experience vibrant nature, wildlife spotting, and the magic of the midnight sun.

Why Visit Iceland in July?

July is an ideal month offering unbeatable conditions:

✅ Warmest temperatures – Iceland’s peak summer warmth. ✅ Midnight sun – Nearly 24-hour daylight for endless exploring. ✅ Fully accessible roads – Including remote highland roads. ✅ Wildlife viewing peak – Puffins, whales, and seals at their most visible. ✅ Ideal for hiking & outdoor activities – Perfect weather and trail conditions.

⚠️ Challenges:

• Higher tourist numbers.
  
  
• Accommodation and rental car prices at peak.
  
  

💡 Tip: Book your accommodations, rental cars, and tours early for better availability and prices.

Iceland Weather in July

July typically has mild temperatures, making it the warmest month for travel:

Average Temperatures

• 🌡️ 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F)
  
  
• Reykjavik & South Iceland: 11°C to 15°C (52°F to 59°F)
  
  
• North Iceland & Highlands: 9°C to 13°C (48°F to 55°F)
  
  

Daylight Hours in July

• ☀️ Nearly 24 hours of daylight
  
  
• Early July: Virtually no darkness
  
  
• Late July: Very short twilight hours begin returning
  
  

💡 Tip: Use a sleep mask and blackout curtains for restful sleep.

Rain & Wind

• 🌧️ Occasional rain showers, but generally driest month.
  
  
• 💨 Moderate winds, particularly along coastal regions.
  
  

💡 Tip: Always carry waterproof layers even on sunny days.

Best Things to Do in Iceland in July

1. Take a Road Trip on the Ring Road

July offers perfect driving conditions for Iceland’s iconic road trip:

• South Coast: Waterfalls (Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss) & black sand beaches.
  
  
• East Fjords: Stunning landscapes & charming coastal towns.
  
  
• North Iceland: Lake Mývatn geothermal areas, whale watching in Húsavík.
  
  
• West Iceland & Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Majestic cliffs, lava fields, and Kirkjufell mountain.
  
  

💡 Tip: July is busy, book accommodation along Ring Road early.

2. Discover the Icelandic Highlands

With roads fully open, July is the best month for highland adventures:

• Landmannalaugar: Famous multicolored mountains and geothermal springs.
  
  
• Þórsmörk Valley: Stunning hiking trails through lush valleys.
  
  
• Askja Caldera: Adventurous drive to volcanic landscapes and crater lakes.
  
  

💡 Tip: Rent a 4x4 vehicle for safe highland driving.

3. Whale Watching & Puffin Tours

July is prime time for wildlife lovers:

• Whales: Best locations in Húsavík, Akureyri, Reykjavik.
  
  
• Puffins: Dyrhólaey cliffs, Westman Islands, Látrabjarg.
  
  

💡 Tip: Choose early-morning boat tours for calmer seas.

4. Hike Iceland’s Famous Trails

July has ideal hiking conditions and clear trails:

• Laugavegur Trek (Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk): Famous 4-day trek through extraordinary landscapes.
  
  
• Fimmvörðuháls Trail: Spectacular 1–2 day hike between glaciers and waterfalls.
  
  

💡 Tip: Book hut stays or campsites in advance.

5. Relax in Hot Springs & Geothermal Pools

Experience Icelandic bathing culture during mild summer days:

• Sky Lagoon: Luxurious infinity pool near Reykjavik.
  
  
• Blue Lagoon: Famous milky-blue spa waters.
  
  
• Local pools: Authentic geothermal experiences around the country.
  
  

💡 Tip: Reserve spots ahead; they can fill up in peak summer.

Road Conditions & Driving in July

🚗 July offers optimal driving conditions:

• All main roads and F-roads (highlands) fully accessible.
  
  
• Regular cars suitable for most areas, 4x4 recommended for highlands.
  
  

💡 Tip: Check road.is daily for road condition updates.

Packing List for Iceland in July

✅ Lightweight layers for varied temperatures
✅ Waterproof jacket and pants
✅ Comfortable hiking boots
✅ Sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent
✅ Sleep mask for midnight sun
✅ Swimsuit for hot springs

Conclusion

July is Iceland’s most vibrant summer month, perfect for exploring stunning landscapes, enjoying endless daylight, spotting wildlife, and adventuring into the highlands. With excellent road conditions and pleasant weather, your July visit will be truly memorable.

🚗 Renting a car? July’s conditions make it ideal for exploring every corner of Iceland!