Discovering a country can have so many different hints depending on the season you are coming in. Every season has its own magic. That is why we wanted to share with you how to take the most of your trip with this Summer in Iceland- The season series; no matter the time of the year you are traveling to our country!
As you can tell, we are starting off with the Summer. Everyone loves the sun, the warm and the light! Summer is also one of the best times to visit Iceland, so the island is bursting with people that come and go, everything is so alive! But as good as it may sound, everything has its pros and cons. In this Summer in Iceland- The season series, we are going to give you as much information as we can. That way, you can make up your mind and choose the season that suits you best!
Weather and temperatures
Do not be fooled by the title of this post Summer in Iceland- The season series, do not expect high Mediterranean temperatures and some perfect sunny days all throughout the season. Bear in mind Iceland is located close to the Arctic pole so even though its summers are warmer due to the gulf stream, temperatures range from 10ºC-15ºC. Weather can also be unstable, windy and rainy.
Daylight hours
This is probably the greatest advantage of the summer because during this time, the sun just does not set! This phenomenon is called the Midnight Sun in July, the Sun kind of rises at 3:06 and sort of sets at 23:55 but the truth is the dusk is basically never-ending, there is always this dim twilight light everywhere.
If you are on a tight schedule and would like to take the most of each day in Iceland or make long day excursion tours, in this Summer in Iceland- The season series article we would recommend you to come to our country in Summer, it is indeed a great Idea as having 24h of light gives the traveler a lot of freedom!
Summer Traditions
There are some great celebrations during this season, you may love to join them and learn about the Icelandic culture!
Summer in Iceland- The season series
- Jónsmessa: Also known as “Midsummer night” celebrated on the 24th of June, the longest day of the year. This is a magical tradition where otherworldly powers posses animals and the elves. They will try to draw you to them by using food or gifts. bonfires are also typical in this festivity.
- Sumardagurinn fyrsti: This translate to “first day of summer”, nowadays it can be a bit confusing because it is celebrated on the first Thursday after the 18th of April…which is not exactly summer, is it? It is because in Iceland we used to follow the old Norse calendar which split the year into two seasons: summer and winter. Many summer parades march in many streets in Iceland as well as sport competitions and many other events.
Festivals
Are you in a party mood? Keep on reading our Summer in Iceland- The season series and check out the most famous festivals in Iceland that take place during the warmest season!
- Secret Solstice Festival: This Iceland music festival was born in 2014 and mixes great music with the midnight sun and Nordic mythology. It takes place in June and you can check their line up online.
- Culture Night or ‘Menningarnótt’: Celebrated on the 20th of August, converts, art, expositions and many activities take over Reykjavik. This is a great day to mingle with the locals and galleries and museums are open for free! If you feel like stretching out your legs, you can join the Reykjavik Marathon, also held on the same day.
If you liked this Summer in Iceland- The season series, you better check out our upcoming seasons! They will be full of great information and tips for your vacation.
