Things To Do
in Akureyri
Akureyri sits on the shores of Eyjafjörður in Iceland’s north, earning its nickname as the capital of the North. Surrounded by fjords, mountains, and waterfalls, the town blends a welcoming, walkable city center with easy access to dramatic nature. Colorful houses line the harbor and the hillsides, while cultural events and cozy cafés create a lively hometown atmosphere.
Year-round, Akureyri offers winter sunsets, midnight sun summers, and a front-row seat to Iceland’s northern scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by strolling through the charming streets of downtown Akureyri, where colorful wooden houses and unique shops create an inviting atmosphere. Stop by the iconic Akureyri Church, a beautiful architectural landmark that offers a stunning view of the surrounding town and fjord. Don't forget to grab a local pastry from a nearby café to fuel your day ahead.
In the afternoon, visit the Akureyri Botanical Gardens, one of the northernmost botanical gardens in the world, showcasing a vast collection of plant species. Take a leisurely walk among the well-maintained paths and enjoy the serene ambiance of this green oasis. Afterward, indulge in a guided tour of the Akureyri Art Museum to appreciate contemporary Icelandic art.
As the sun sets, enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Icelandic cuisine, perhaps sampling some lamb or fresh seafood. Embrace the vibrant culture by attending a live music event or show, often hosted in the theaters or pubs around town. Wind down with a stroll along the waterfront, where the stunning reflections of the town lights dance on the water.
Set sail on a thrilling whale watching tour from Akureyri Harbor early in the morning, where you might catch sight of majestic humpbacks and playful dolphins. Experience the excitement of being out on the open sea, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and the crisp Arctic air. Make sure to keep your camera ready for those unforgettable moments.
After your exhilarating marine adventure, grab lunch at a nearby eatery and share stories about the whales you spotted. Spend your afternoon visiting the North Iceland Nature Center, where you can learn about the region's geology, wildlife, and environment through interactive exhibits. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the surrounding area, perhaps taking a short hike to a viewpoint for panoramic views.
Return to the city for a cozy evening, enjoying a meal in one of Akureyri’s quaint restaurants. If the night is clear, look out for the enchanting Northern Lights, which can often be seen on cool evenings in the region. Alternatively, relax at a local hot tub or geothermal pool to unwind after an exciting day on the water.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚌Public transportation (day pass) | $7-10 |
| 🛒Groceries (week) | $60-120 |
| 🎟️Museum/attraction entry | $10-22 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural surroundings and easy access to fjords and mountains
- Safe, friendly, and compact city center
- Excellent infrastructure and high-quality services
- Great base for day trips to Goðafoss, Mývatn, and whale watching nearby
- Limited late-night options in winter
- Higher costs for accommodation and dining compared to some other regions
- Weather can be windy and unpredictable year-round
- "Góðan daginn" - Good day
- "Takk fyrir" - Thank you
- "Hvar er baðstaðurinn?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Ég tala lítið ensku" - I speak a little English
- "Get ég fengið þetta?" - Can I get this?
- "Hjólið? er reiðubúið" - Is this bike ready?
- "Hvað kostar þetta?" - How much does this cost?
- "Gott kvöld" - Good evening
Places to Visit in Akureyri
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic white church with a distinctive tower; offers panoramic city and fjord views from the surrounding streets and hillside.
Colorful houses, fishing boats, and the calm Eyjafjörður provide classic Icelandic harbor scenes.
Mountain slopes above the town offering sweeping, alpine-inspired views, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
A peaceful riverside and valley area with charming farmhouses and greenery—great for tranquil landscape photos.
Food in Akureyri
Akureyri Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Dried fish served with butter, a traditional Icelandic snack often enjoyed with bread.
Must-Try!
A creamy fish and potato stew, a comforting staple in Icelandic homes and taverns.
Smoked lamb often served with potatoes and peas; commonly found on seasonal menus.
Thick Icelandic yogurt served with fresh berries or toppings for a refreshing finish.
Dense rye bread paired with smoked salmon and cream cheese for a simple, satisfying bite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls around the town center offering fresh fish, berries, rye bread, and other local produce.
Casual options around Hafnarstræti and Skólavörðustígur with fish sandwiches, pastries, and warm drinks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Shower before entering pools; swimwear norms apply; follow pool rules and keep noise considerate.
Respect others’ space in public areas; privacy and personal space are valued; avoid loud behavior in quiet zones.
Safety
Tipping in Akureyri
Ensure a smooth experience
Not expected in Iceland; rounding up or 5–10% for exceptional service is appreciated but not mandatory.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common; cash usage declining.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours (midnight sun in late May–July) with mild temperatures around 10–15°C; outdoor activities and city life feel vibrant.
Cold, with snow and strong winds; short days; opportunities for Northern Lights viewing and winter sports at Hlíðarfjall.
Mild but changeable weather; blooming flora and the return of outdoor markets and cafés.
Cooler temperatures and wind with colorful foliage; great for photography and quieter trails.
Akureyri at Night
Hiking in Akureyri
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Various alpine and forested trails with rewarding fjord and mountain vistas.
Easy to moderate walks along rivers and green banks close to town.
Seasonal and weather-dependent routes offering panoramic views of north Iceland.
Airports
How to reach Akureyri by plane.
Small regional airport just outside Akureyri; frequent domestic flights to Reykjavik and seasonal international charters.
Iceland’s main international gateway; connect domestically to Akureyri via scheduled flights.
Small regional airport serving the area; useful for whale-watching trips and short hops.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Icelandic with a growing number of international residents and students; a small but active expat community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed; local clubs and youth programs are active.
Common in schools and clubs; community leagues and matches are popular.
Hlíðarfjall near Akureyri offers winter sports with scenic backdrops.
Water sports on Eyjafjörður are popular in warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Akureyri.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer meat-free options such as soups, salads, vegetarian mains, and seafood-free dishes; ask for farm-to-table or seasonal specials; Icelandic greens and root vegetables are common year-round.