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 plans
Spend a day exploring around
Borgarnes Exploration
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the Settlement Center to learn about Icelandic history. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café.
afternoon
:Explore the Borgarnes coastline with a scenic walk along the shores. Stop for lunch at a restaurant with a view of the mountains.
evening
: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.
Nature Day in Borgarnes
morning
:Head out early for a hike in the nearby Grábrók Crater, enjoying stunning views. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the crater's summit.
afternoon
: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.
evening
:Relax at your accommodation and watch the sunset from a nearby viewpoint. Consider a movie night featuring Icelandic films.
Highlights
Good
- 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
Bad
- 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
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the Borgarnes Settlement Center
Explore the history and culture of Borgarnes and the Saga of Egil Skallagrimsson through interactive exhibits and displays.
Hiking in the Snæfellsnes National Park
Enjoy scenic hiking trails that offer stunning views of mountains, waterfalls, and coastal landscapes.
Fishing in the Borgarfjörður
Experience fishing in the beautiful Borgarfjörður fjord, known for its diverse marine life and picturesque settings.
Whale Watching Tours
Take a boat tour from Borgarnes to observe whales in their natural habitat, a thrilling experience for nature lovers.
Horseback Riding Tours
Explore the stunning Icelandic landscapes on horseback, guided tours are available for all skill levels.
Bird Watching at Lake Hraunsnef
Visit Lake Hraunsnef for an opportunity to observe various bird species in a tranquil setting.
Visit the Viking Settlement Museum
Learn about the Viking history of Iceland through exhibits and artifacts, including replicas of Viking ships.
Explore the Viðgelmir Lava Cave
Take a guided tour of one of the largest lava caves in Iceland, showcasing impressive geological formations.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Borgarnes with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Borgarnes Viewing Platform
A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of Borgarnes and the surrounding landscapes, perfect for capturing stunning sunset photos.
Skallagrímurskirkja
This church features modern architecture and is set against a backdrop of mountains, making it an excellent location for photos both inside and out.
Borgarnes Harbor
The harbor area provides beautiful views of boats and the coastline, ideal for capturing the charm of local life and the natural environment.
Húsafell Hot Pots
A short drive from Borgarnes, the hot pots offer unique photo opportunities of natural geothermal activity set in scenic surroundings.
Wrangling Arnarstapi - Snæfellsnes Peninsula
A scenic drive from Borgarnes, this coastal area features stunning cliffs, arches, and rock formations perfect for dramatic landscape photographs.
Laxárdalur Valley
Just a short trip away, this valley presents beautiful rural landscapes, rivers, and mountains, creating stunning natural backdrops for photography.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Plokkfiskur
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!
Skyr
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.
Lamb Soup
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
Borgarnes Farmers Market
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.
Food Trucks at Borgarnes Harbor
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
Respect Personal Space
Icelanders value their personal space and may find it uncomfortable if others stand too close. Maintain a respectful distance during conversations.
Politeness and Greetings
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.
Embrace Nature with Care
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 & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
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
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.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Borgarnes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
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
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
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
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.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Glymur Waterfall
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.
Hallmundarhraun Lava Field
This area features various hiking trails that provide a unique opportunity to explore lava fields, volcanic landscapes, and beautiful views of the nearby mountains.
Borgarfjörður Valley
A beautiful valley that offers several hiking routes with varying difficulty levels, showcasing waterfalls, cliffs, and rich flora and fauna.
Reykjafjarðarlaug Hiking Trail
A short hiking trail leading to a geothermal hot spring, where hikers can relax after enjoying picturesque views of the surrounding hills and fjord.
Húsafell to Þingvellir National Park Trail
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 Nearby
How to reach Borgarnes by plane.
Keflavik International Airport (KEF)
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.
Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV)
While primarily serving domestic flights, Reykjavik Domestic Airport is located around 58 kilometers from Borgarnes and offers connections to several regional locations.
Akureyri Airport (AEY)
Located approximately 303 kilometers from Borgarnes, this airport serves domestic flights to and from the northern part of Iceland and is regional in nature.
Egilsstaðir Airport (EGS)
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.
Icelandic Residents
The majority of the population in Borgarnes, consisting of individuals born in Iceland or with Icelandic citizenship.
Immigrants
A smaller, but significant population of immigrants from various countries who reside in Borgarnes for work, study, or family reasons.
Seasonal Workers
A group of temporary workers who come to Borgarnes primarily during the tourist season or for specific agricultural jobs.
Students
Individuals enrolled in local educational institutions, including high schools and vocational training centers.
Elderly Population
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.
Football
A popular team sport played widely across Iceland, including Borgarnes. Local clubs organize matches and training for different age groups.
Handball
A widely played indoor sport in Iceland, handball has a strong following in Borgarnes, with clubs participating in regional competitions.
Basketball
Basketball is growing in popularity, with local teams and leagues offering opportunities for both youth and adults to participate.
Volleyball
Volleyball is played recreationally and competitively in Borgarnes, with facilities available for both indoor and beach volleyball.
Swimming
Iceland has a strong swimming culture, and Borgarnes has facilities that encourage swimming as a year-round activity.
Hiking
With its stunning natural landscapes, hiking is popular in and around Borgarnes, offering trails for various skill levels.
Cycling
Cycling is a favored recreational activity, with various bike paths and scenic routes in and near Borgarnes.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
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.
Gluten-Free Choices
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.