Things To Do
in Borgarnes
Borgarnes is a charming town located on the western coast of Iceland. It is known for its beautiful coastal views and proximity to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The town has a rich history, with landmarks such as the Settlement Center providing insights into Iceland's early settlers.
Borgarnes is a popular stop for travelers exploring the scenic landscapes of western Iceland.
- "Halló" - Hello
- "Takk fyrir" - Thank you
- "Góða ferð" - Safe travels
- "Afsakið" - Excuse me
- "Hvernig hefurðu það?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Settlement Center to learn about Icelandic history. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café.
Explore the Borgarnes coastline with a scenic walk along the shores. Stop for lunch at a restaurant with a view of the mountains.
Dine at a cozy eatery in town, trying traditional Icelandic dishes. Conclude the day with a stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the calm evening atmosphere.
Head out early for a hike in the nearby Grábrók Crater, enjoying stunning views. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the crater's summit.
Visit the Borgarnes swimming pool for a relaxing soak in geothermal water. Grab lunch from a food truck nearby for a quick and tasty meal.
Relax at your accommodation and watch the sunset from a nearby viewpoint. Consider a movie night featuring Icelandic films.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery with stunning views of mountains and the ocean
- Rich history and culture, including interesting museums and local traditions
- Friendly and welcoming community atmosphere
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and bird watching
- Strategic location for exploring other parts of Iceland, including the Golden Circle
- Limited job opportunities and economic activity in the area
- Harsh weather conditions, especially during winter months
- Isolation from larger cities, which may limit access to certain services and amenities
- Higher cost of living compared to some other regions in Iceland
- Potential for strong winds and fluctuating weather patterns impacting daily life
Best Activities in Borgarnes
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the history and culture of Borgarnes and the Saga of Egil Skallagrimsson through interactive exhibits and displays.
Enjoy scenic hiking trails that offer stunning views of mountains, waterfalls, and coastal landscapes.
Experience fishing in the beautiful Borgarfjörður fjord, known for its diverse marine life and picturesque settings.
Take a boat tour from Borgarnes to observe whales in their natural habitat, a thrilling experience for nature lovers.
Explore the stunning Icelandic landscapes on horseback, guided tours are available for all skill levels.
Visit Lake Hraunsnef for an opportunity to observe various bird species in a tranquil setting.
Learn about the Viking history of Iceland through exhibits and artifacts, including replicas of Viking ships.
Take a guided tour of one of the largest lava caves in Iceland, showcasing impressive geological formations.
Tours
Uncover the best of Borgarnes with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Borgarnes
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of Borgarnes and the surrounding landscapes, perfect for capturing stunning sunset photos.
This church features modern architecture and is set against a backdrop of mountains, making it an excellent location for photos both inside and out.
The harbor area provides beautiful views of boats and the coastline, ideal for capturing the charm of local life and the natural environment.
A short drive from Borgarnes, the hot pots offer unique photo opportunities of natural geothermal activity set in scenic surroundings.
A scenic drive from Borgarnes, this coastal area features stunning cliffs, arches, and rock formations perfect for dramatic landscape photographs.
Just a short trip away, this valley presents beautiful rural landscapes, rivers, and mountains, creating stunning natural backdrops for photography.
Food in Borgarnes
Borgarnes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Icelandic fish stew made with cod or haddock, potatoes, onions, and béchamel sauce. It's a hearty and flavorful dish found in most local restaurants and cafes.
Must-Try!
Icelandic cultured dairy product, similar to yogurt but with a milder flavor and thicker texture. It's a nutritious and popular snack or dessert available in supermarkets and eateries throughout Borgarnes.
A warming and soul-satisfying dish made with tender lamb, root vegetables, and herbs. This traditional Icelandic soup is a must-try and is often served in cozy local restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Borgarnes better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A great place to explore local produce, dairy products, and handmade goods. Visitors can sample and purchase a variety of fresh ingredients and traditional Icelandic treats.
For a taste of convenient and delicious street food, the food trucks at Borgarnes Harbor offer freshly prepared fish and chips, grilled lamb skewers, and Icelandic hot dogs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Icelanders value their personal space and may find it uncomfortable if others stand too close. Maintain a respectful distance during conversations.
A friendly greeting is important in Icelandic culture. When meeting someone, a simple 'Halló' or 'Góðan daginn' (Good day) is appreciated. Eye contact is also considered a sign of respect.
Icelanders have a deep respect for their natural surroundings. When exploring nature in Borgarnes, follow marked paths, avoid littering, and respect the environment to honor local customs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Borgarnes with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Borgarnes
Ensure a smooth experience
In Borgarnes, as in much of Iceland, tipping is not a common practice. Service charges are typically included in the bill, and it is not expected to tip in restaurants, bars, or for services. However, rounding up the bill or leaving small change as a gesture of appreciation is sometimes appreciated.
Payment methods in Borgarnes consist mainly of credit and debit cards, which are widely accepted in various establishments. Cash is less commonly used, but it is advisable to carry some for smaller vendors or markets. Mobile payment solutions are also gaining popularity among locals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Borgarnes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Borgarnes (March to May) is a wonderful time to visit as the snow begins to melt, revealing vibrant landscapes. Expect cool temperatures averaging between 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). Wildlife, including birds returning for the nesting season, can be observed, and the days become longer as the sun shines more frequently.
Summer (June to August) is the best time for travelers to visit Borgarnes, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 65°F). This season offers long daylight hours, allowing for extended outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and exploring the stunning landscapes. Local festivals and events also take place during this vibrant season.
Autumn (September to November) in Borgarnes is characterized by cooler temperatures (around 1°C to 10°C or 34°F to 50°F) and the stunning fall colors. It’s a quieter time to visit, ideal for those seeking tranquility. Expect shorter days and the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights as nights grow darker.
Winter (December to February) in Borgarnes brings cold temperatures, often between -1°C to 3°C (30°F to 37°F). Snow covers the landscape, creating a picturesque winter wonderland. Winter sports like cross-country skiing become popular, but travelers should be prepared for harsh weather and limited daylight. The Northern Lights may also be visible during this season.
Borgarnes at Night
Hiking in Borgarnes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 30 minutes from Borgarnes, Glymur is the tallest waterfall in Iceland, accessible via a scenic hiking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
This area features various hiking trails that provide a unique opportunity to explore lava fields, volcanic landscapes, and beautiful views of the nearby mountains.
A beautiful valley that offers several hiking routes with varying difficulty levels, showcasing waterfalls, cliffs, and rich flora and fauna.
A short hiking trail leading to a geothermal hot spring, where hikers can relax after enjoying picturesque views of the surrounding hills and fjord.
A multi-day hiking trail that stretches from Húsafell to Þingvellir, passing through diverse landscapes, including forests, rivers, and lava fields.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Borgarnes through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Borgarnes by plane.
The largest international airport in Iceland, located approximately 73 kilometers from Borgarnes. It serves as the main hub for international flights to and from Iceland.
While primarily serving domestic flights, Reykjavik Domestic Airport is located around 58 kilometers from Borgarnes and offers connections to several regional locations.
Located approximately 303 kilometers from Borgarnes, this airport serves domestic flights to and from the northern part of Iceland and is regional in nature.
Situated about 400 kilometers from Borgarnes, this airport provides domestic flights mainly serving the eastern region of Iceland.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Borgarnes, consisting of individuals born in Iceland or with Icelandic citizenship.
A smaller, but significant population of immigrants from various countries who reside in Borgarnes for work, study, or family reasons.
A group of temporary workers who come to Borgarnes primarily during the tourist season or for specific agricultural jobs.
Individuals enrolled in local educational institutions, including high schools and vocational training centers.
Older adults, often retired, who may have lived in Borgarnes for many years and are a significant part of the community.
The Soul of Borgarnes
Discover the essence of Borgarnes through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played widely across Iceland, including Borgarnes. Local clubs organize matches and training for different age groups.
A widely played indoor sport in Iceland, handball has a strong following in Borgarnes, with clubs participating in regional competitions.
Basketball is growing in popularity, with local teams and leagues offering opportunities for both youth and adults to participate.
Volleyball is played recreationally and competitively in Borgarnes, with facilities available for both indoor and beach volleyball.
Iceland has a strong swimming culture, and Borgarnes has facilities that encourage swimming as a year-round activity.
With its stunning natural landscapes, hiking is popular in and around Borgarnes, offering trails for various skill levels.
Cycling is a favored recreational activity, with various bike paths and scenic routes in and near Borgarnes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Borgarnes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants and cafes in Borgarnes offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, including creative salads, vegetable stews, and plant-based versions of traditional Icelandic recipes.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free options such as fish dishes, lamb skewers, and locally sourced salads. Many eateries also offer gluten-free bread and baked goods.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Borgarnes with these cultural adventures.
