Driving in Iceland in July: A Perfect Month for Summer Road Trips

July is peak summer in Iceland, offering travellers the perfect combination of stable weather, long daylight hours, and full access to Iceland’s most breathtaking natural wonders. If you’re planning a self-drive holiday, driving in Iceland in July is as good as it gets — from midnight-sun drives along the coast to venturing deep into the highlands.

Here’s everything you need to know to hit the road with confidence.

 

What Makes July an Ideal Time to Drive in Iceland?

July is Iceland’s warmest and driest month. You can expect average temperatures between 10–16°C (50–60°F), with long, golden evenings and manageable weather across most of the country. Even more importantly, nearly all roads — including mountain F-roads — are open and accessible.

Reasons to drive in July include:

• Full accessibility to highland routes and remote regions
• Comfortable temperatures for sightseeing and hiking stops
• Long daylight hours for flexible travel plans
• Events and festivals that bring Icelandic culture to life

Always check road conditions on road.is and the weather forecast at vedur.is before setting off.

Best Cars to Rent in July

Even in summer, your vehicle choice matters, especially if you’re planning to leave Route 1.

• Compact and economy cars are ideal for the Ring Road and popular tourist routes.
• 4x4 vehicles are essential for highland adventures and driving F-roads like Askja, Sprengisandur or Landmannalaugar.
• Electric and hybrid options are increasingly popular and supported by growing charging infrastructure.

Learn more about car types and insurance in our main guide on driving in Iceland.

 

Road Conditions in July

July offers the most stable road conditions of the year. Route 1 is fully accessible and dry. Inland and highland roads that are typically closed for most of the year are generally open by early July.

• Gravel roads may still be rough in remote areas — reduce speed and keep a firm grip.
• Always slow down for one-lane bridges and blind summits.
• Be cautious in areas with high sheep traffic.

Visit road.is daily to check for updates, especially if heading inland.

 

Safety Tips for Summer Driving

Despite better conditions in July, safety should remain a top priority.

• Headlights must be on at all times.
• Stay under the speed limit: 90 km/h on paved roads, 80 km/h on gravel.
• Never drive off-road — it’s illegal and damages Iceland’s sensitive landscape.
• Use pullouts for photos and scenic views — never stop on the road.
• Prepare for rapid weather shifts, especially in highland areas.

Find more tips in our driving safety guide.

 

Parking and Local Driving Customs

Parking is easy but regulated in urban areas. Use local apps or pay machines. In rural areas, park responsibly and avoid blocking paths or parking on delicate terrain.

Icelandic driving etiquette includes:

• No honking unless urgent
• Flashing lights = thank you / go ahead
• Yielding on one-lane bridges and blind hills

More on this in our Parking in Iceland guide.

 

EV Charging and Fuel in July

With so many travellers choosing low-emission cars, Iceland is well-equipped for summer EV driving.

• Over 200 charging stations across the country
• High-speed chargers at key service stations and urban areas
• Apps like PlugShare or Ísorka help plan stops

Read our full Electric and Hybrid Driving Guide.

Must-Drive Routes in July

• The Westfjords: Long days allow deeper exploration into this dramatic and remote region
• The Highlands: F-roads to Askja, Kerlingarfjöll, and Hveravellir are open and stunning
• The Eastfjords: Serene and less travelled, with winding coastlines and puffin colonies
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Still a classic, packed with natural diversity

Plan your route with our Travel Inspiration hub.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive to the Highlands in July?

Yes, most F-roads open by early July. Always check conditions first.

Is July good for electric vehicles in Iceland?

Yes, charging stations are widely available and weather is optimal.

How do I know if a road is open?

Use road.is for live updates on conditions and closures.

Do I need a 4x4 in July?

Only if you’re heading into the highlands or F-roads.

Are there any driving restrictions in summer?

Off-road driving is illegal year-round. Always follow posted signs and rules.

Is there daylight at night in July?

Yes! You’ll enjoy late sunsets and extended twilight well past midnight.

Final Thoughts

Driving in Iceland in July offers the ultimate blend of freedom, accessibility, and natural beauty. With the whole country open for exploration, it’s the perfect time to get off the beaten path, discover hidden gems, and enjoy Iceland’s dramatic landscapes under endless light.

Ready to plan? Get started with our main driving guide and make your July road trip unforgettable.