Driving in Iceland in June: Your Ultimate Summer Road Trip Guide

June is one of the most magical times to explore Iceland — when the land of fire and ice comes alive with endless daylight, blooming wildflowers, and open roads calling you into the wild. For those planning a self-drive adventure, driving in Iceland in June offers some of the safest, most scenic conditions of the year — but there are still things you’ll need to know before hitting the road.

From planning your route to understanding Icelandic traffic laws and renting the right car, this guide will help you make the most of your summer drive.

 

Why June Is Ideal for Driving in Iceland

With up to 24 hours of daylight thanks to the midnight sun, June is a dream month for drivers. The Ring Road (Route 1) and most F-roads (mountain tracks) begin to reopen after the snow melts, granting access to Iceland’s most remote and spectacular destinations.

Here’s why travellers love driving in June:

• Excellent visibility and extended daylight for long drives
• Warmer weather and milder road conditions
• Open access to highland routes like Landmannalaugar and Kjölur (check road.is for current conditions)
• Ideal for exploring Iceland at your own pace

That said, Iceland’s weather can still be unpredictable. Even in June, wind gusts and rain can surprise drivers. Always check forecasts at vedur.is and road conditions before setting off.

 

Renting the Right Car for June Travel

Although summer roads are easier to navigate than in winter, choosing the right vehicle matters.

• For Ring Road travel, a compact or economy car is usually enough.
• If you plan to explore the highlands or F-roads, you’ll need a 4x4 — check road.is for opening and conditions.
• Höldur offers reliable options from Keflavík Airport and Reykjavík, including eco-friendly EVs and hybrids — a great choice for low-emission travel.

For comprehensive information on driving regulations, road types, and safety tips, refer to our What to know about driving in Iceland guide.

Looking to rent your vehicle? Explore rental options with Höldur.

 

Road Conditions and What to Expect in June

The majority of roads in Iceland are paved and easy to navigate in summer. However, you’ll still encounter:

• Gravel roads in rural areas, which can reduce traction — slow down, especially when meeting other cars.
• Single-lane bridges, common throughout the country. Always yield to the car closest to the bridge.
• Sheep crossing rural roads — drive cautiously in farming areas.

Route 1 is in good condition, but side roads can still be narrow or uneven. Take it slow, enjoy the scenery, and avoid off-road driving (which is illegal and harmful to Iceland’s fragile environment).

Learn more about road safety and tips in our driving guide.

Tips for Safe and Enjoyable Driving in June

Here are a few essential tips for a safe summer road trip:

• Always keep your headlights on, even during the midnight sun.
• Stick to posted speed limits: usually 90 km/h on paved roads, 80 km/h on gravel.
• Watch out for wildlife, especially sheep with lambs crossing the road.
• Never stop in the middle of the road to take photos — use designated pull-outs.
• Use Höldur’s in-car GPS or download maps offline, especially in remote areas.

Discover essential safety practices in our What to know about driving in Iceland guide.

 

Parking and Road Etiquette

Urban areas like Reykjavík and Akureyri have metered parking. Look for pay-and-display stations or use local parking apps. In rural areas, parking is usually free — but always make sure you’re not blocking access or parking on fragile vegetation.

Respect local road customs:

• No honking unless necessary.
• Flashing headlights often signals “go ahead” or “thank you.”
• Icelanders value calm, considerate driving — so take it slow and enjoy the journey.

Understand parking regulations and payment methods in our Parking in Iceland: What You Need to Know article.

 

Fueling and EV Charging in Summer

You’ll find petrol stations every 50–100 km, many of them self-service and open 24/7 with a credit card.

If you’re driving an electric or plug-in hybrid:

• There are over 200 charging stations across Iceland, including at Höldur’s service points.
• Use apps like PlugShare or Ísorka to locate chargers.
• Always plan your charging stops in advance, especially outside the capital region.

Explore charging station locations and tips in our Driving Electric Cars and Hybrids in Iceland guide.

 

Scenic Drives to Try in June

Some unforgettable June routes include:

• Snæfellsnes Peninsula – Often called “Iceland in Miniature,” it offers coastal cliffs, lava fields, and glaciers.
• South Coast to Vík – Waterfalls, black sand beaches, and puffin colonies.
• Golden Circle – An easy day trip from Reykjavík, with geysers, Þingvellir National Park, and Gullfoss waterfall.
• Westfjords (via ferry or 4x4) – Remote and rugged, perfect for experienced drivers.

Find itinerary ideas and destination highlights in our Travel Inspiration section.

FAQs: Driving in Iceland in June

What side of the road do Icelanders drive on?

On the right-hand side, like most of mainland Europe.

Do I need an international driver’s licence?

No, if your licence is in Roman script and valid in your home country, it’s accepted.

Can I turn right on red?

No — turning right at a red light is not allowed in Iceland.

What’s the minimum age to rent a car?

Usually 20 years for economy cars, 23+ for 4x4s and larger vehicles.

How long does it take to drive the Golden Circle?

Plan for 6–8 hours including stops.

Are headlights required in summer?

Yes, headlights must always be on, day or night, year-round.

Is off-road driving allowed?

Absolutely not. It’s illegal and severely damages the environment.

Do I need to rent a car from Keflavík Airport?

It’s the most convenient option, especially for early/late flights, but cars can also be picked up in Reykjavík. No bus is needed to pick up your rental car in Iceland. We are one of three authorized in-terminal car rentals at Keflavik airport. Our desk is in the arrivals hall, on the left after Customs, and your car is parked just outside the terminal.

Final Thoughts

Driving in Iceland in June is one of the most exhilarating and freeing ways to experience this beautiful country. Whether you’re tracing the curves of the Ring Road under golden midnight light or exploring the untouched highlands, summer road trips offer flexibility, serenity, and the thrill of discovery.

Ready to explore? Start planning your route and get road-ready with our main driving guide — your Icelandic summer adventure begins with Höldur.