Midnight Sun

Chasing the Midnight Sun in Iceland

In winter, travelers head to Iceland hoping to see the Northern Lights. But in summer, the focus shifts completely. It is no longer about darkness; it is all about light. Endless, golden, glowing light.
Welcome to the land of the midnight sun, where the sun barely dips below the horizon and nights feel like long golden evenings.

What is the Midnight Sun?

From May to August, the sun sets just before midnight. During this time, the sun is visible across Iceland for almost 24 hours a day, especially from May to July, even if it is cloudy.
Because of the bright sky, the chances of seeing the Northern Lights during this period are virtually zero.

The peak occurs around the summer solstice (Icelandic: Sumarsólstöður), the longest day of the year. It usually falls between June 20th and 22nd. On this day in Reykjavík, the sun sets just after midnight and rises again just before 3:00 in the morning.

The midnight sun is a rare natural phenomenon. Outside of Iceland, it is only seen in select regions such as Alaska, Canada, Finland, Greenland, Northern Russia, the North Pole, Norway, the South Pole, and Sweden.

This extended daylight is caused by the tilt of the Earth’s axis. During summer, the Northern Hemisphere leans toward the sun, and the poles receive sunlight for months at a time. This same tilt leads to the winter solstice, Iceland’s shortest day, which typically occurs on December 21st. On that day, Reykjavík gets only about 4 to 5 hours of daylight, with sunrise around 11:30 and sunset around 15:30. Afterward, daylight increases by 1 to 3 minutes each day.

What to do during the midnight sun period? 

Icelanders make the most of the long, bright nights with festivals, outdoor fun, and age-old traditions.

One of the highlights is Jónsmessa (Midsummer Night), celebrated on June 24th. According to Icelandic folklore, this is one of four magical nights of the year. It’s said that cows can speak, seals may take on human form, and rolling around naked in dew-covered grass can cure ailments. While you may not witness any talking cows, the spirit of Jónsmessa lives on in the joy Icelanders take in nature and folklore.

Summer in Iceland also brings a lively calendar of events and music festivals, many of which stretch late into the evening thanks to the midnight sun. Whether it’s a downtown concert, a scenic hike at midnight, or a community gathering in the countryside, this is a time when life shifts outdoors and energy runs high.

At GJ Travel, we offer a variety of summer tours that let you experience Iceland under the magic of the midnight sun. Whether you want to soak in hot springs under golden skies, photograph dramatic waterfalls in the evening light, or venture into the peaceful wilderness of the Westfjords, there is a tour for every type of traveler.

Some popular options include:
• Land of the Midnight Sun – A 5-day summer version of our winter bestseller, with visits to the Golden Circle, South Coast, Reykjanes Peninsula, and the Blue Lagoon
• Gems of South Iceland – A short but powerful 3-day journey through waterfalls, black sand beaches, and volcanoes, with the option to extend in Reykjavík
• Gems of South Iceland & Reykjavík – The same trip as above, just adding Reykjavík to the itinerary. This makes a 6-day version combining nature and city life, including whale watching, the Sky Lagoon, and the volcanic Westman Islands
• Gracious Southwest Iceland – A 7-day premium small-group experience blending iconic sights with culinary stops, geothermal spas, and local encounters
• Westfjords of Iceland – An 8-day journey into Iceland’s most remote and spectacular region, ideal during the long daylight hours
• Guided Iceland Circle – An 8-day classic Ring Road tour perfect for first-time visitors
• Grand Tour of Iceland – Our most complete journey, circling the country and exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and untouched Westfjords

All tours are customizable to suit your group’s pace, interests, and travel goals. Whether you’re looking for active days, soft adventure, cultural highlights, or something regenerative and off the beaten path, our travel experts are here to help you plan your perfect summer trip. Many of our itineraries also align with our sustainability goals and regenerative travel values, offering deeper connection to local communities and nature.

These long days are ideal for slow sightseeing, scenic drives, and outdoor adventures at any hour. Icelanders make the most of the extended daylight with endless outdoor activities and summer festivals across the country.

This is also an ideal time for sightseeing, with no time pressure and plenty of golden light from long sunsets and sunrises. You are guaranteed colourful skies and unforgettable landscapes. Many of our tours offer unique midnight sun moments like evening whale watching, Golden Circle stops at night, or remote highland walks under the golden glow.

To browse all our summer tours, visit www.gjtravel.is/iceland-tours/summer-tours.

How Warm Does It Get During Icelandic Summer?

Even with endless daylight, Iceland stays refreshingly cool in summer. Average daytime temperatures in June, July, and August range between 10°C and 15°C (about 50°F to 59°F), but it can sometimes reach up to 20°C (around 68°F) on warm, sunny days.
The cool air, combined with the midnight sun, creates a unique atmosphere that feels both energizing and calming. Pack layers, including a light jacket or sweater, so you stay comfortable no matter what the weather brings.
Even on bright sunny evenings, you will often feel a soft breeze, especially near the coast or waterfalls. It is part of the magic of an Icelandic summer: endless days, golden light, and crisp, clean air.

📷 Tip: Bring your camera — the golden hour never ends, and the light is perfect for photography any time of night.
🎒 Also, pack layers and a sleep mask. Even in summer, Icelandic weather can change quickly, and it helps with sleeping during bright nights.

How do people sleep when it’s bright outside?

Some people are not bothered at all and can sleep even with the lights on. Others rely on sleeping masks and blackout curtains. It also helps to reduce light exposure at least 30 minutes before bedtime and set a regular alarm to keep your schedule on track.
We know that waking up early every day might not sound ideal, especially while on holiday. But sticking to a rhythm helps your body clock adjust, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up refreshed.

With Endless Days Come Endless Possibilities
So, with that in mind … what are you waiting for? Come visit Iceland in summer and don’t forget your sunglasses!

See also our blog about the First day of summer in Iceland.