Things To Do
in Höfn
Höfn is a small town located on the southeastern coast of Iceland. It is known for its stunning scenery, with views of glaciers and rugged coastline. The town is also famous for its delicious seafood, particularly langoustine dishes.
Höfn is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore the beauty of Iceland's south coast.
- "Halló" - Hello
- "Takk fyrir" - Thank you
- "Góða ferð" - Safe travels
- "Afsakið" - Excuse me
- "Hvernig hefurðu það?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $7
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $4 - $10
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike in the nearby Vatnajökull National Park. Explore the breathtaking glaciers and enjoy stunning views.
Head back to Höfn for a delicious seafood lunch at a local restaurant. Afterward, visit the Höfn Glacier Museum to learn about the area's ice caps.
Relax with a scenic stroll along the harbor. End your day with dinner featuring fresh langoustine, a local specialty.
Take a scenic drive along the coast to see the stunning black sand beaches. Stop at the picturesque Stokksnes Peninsula for photographs and views of Vestrahorn mountain.
Visit a local farm for a unique Icelandic cheese tasting experience. You might even see some Icelandic sheep nearby.
Return to Höfn and enjoy a walk along the beach as the sun sets. Have dinner at a local bistro and savor traditional Icelandic dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty, including glaciers and mountains.
- Rich seafood cuisine, particularly langoustine.
- Close proximity to Vatnajökull National Park for outdoor activities.
- Charming small-town atmosphere with friendly locals.
- Great spot for viewing the Northern Lights during winter months.
- Limited shopping and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Harsh weather conditions, especially in winter.
- Higher cost of living and dining due to remote location.
- Limited public transport options can make travel difficult.
- Can be quite quiet, which may not appeal to those looking for a vibrant nightlife.
Best Activities in Höfn
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes and glacial formations of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, with a variety of hiking trails suitable for all levels.
Join a guided tour to walk on or even ice climb the glaciers surrounding Höfn, offering breathtaking views and an adrenaline-filled experience.
Take a boat tour to spot various species of whales in the waters around Höfn, particularly during the summer months when marine life is abundant.
Enjoy kayaking in the calm waters of the fjord, where you can get up close to the natural beauty and wildlife in the area.
Experience the Icelandic countryside on horseback, riding friendly Icelandic horses through scenic landscapes and along coastal areas.
Visit the spectacular Stokksnes beach, famous for its black sands and dramatic mountain scenery, perfect for photography and leisurely strolls.
Tours
Uncover the best of Höfn with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Höfn
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning glacial lagoon where icebergs float serenely and create breathtaking views, perfect for photography.
Located near Jokulsarlon, this black sand beach is scattered with ice chunks, providing a striking contrast and excellent photo opportunities.
A majestic mountain with dramatic peaks and reflections in the water, ideal for capturing landscape photography.
The harbor offers views of fishing boats with the backdrop of the Vatnajökull glacier, great for colorful coastal shots.
Often dubbed one of Iceland's most photographed mountains, it offers stunning views and a charming waterfall in front.
This area provides dramatic scenery with black sand dunes, sweeping ocean views, and the iconic Vestrahorn in the background.
Home to Europe's largest glacier, the park provides countless scenic locations for both sweeping landscapes and close-up shots of ice formations.
Capturing the essence of local life, the markets provide opportunities for vibrant and dynamic street photography.
Food in Höfn
Höfn Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A signature dish known for its succulent and flavorful langoustine, often served in soups, stews, or simply grilled. Try it at Pakkhús or Humarhöfnin for an authentic experience.
Must-Try!
A traditional Icelandic fish stew made with cod or haddock, mashed potatoes, and onions. Sample this dish at Kaffi Hornið for a taste of authentic Icelandic comfort food.
Smoked lamb, a staple of Icelandic cuisine; it's best savored at local restaurants such as Hafnarbuðin or Ósinn.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Höfn better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering fresh seafood, local produce, and handmade goods. Don't miss the opportunity to relish various fish-based street food delicacies, such as fish skewers and fish tacos, as you explore the harbor.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Icelanders are passionate about preserving their natural surroundings. When visiting Höfn, always follow local guidelines for outdoor activities, avoid littering, and stick to marked trails to protect the fragile ecosystem.
Food is an important aspect of Icelandic culture. When dining in Höfn, be open to trying local specialties, such as fresh seafood and traditional dishes. It's also polite to engage with locals about their culinary traditions.
Iceland's serene landscapes foster a spirit of tranquility. When in public spaces, especially in natural settings, maintain a respectful volume and pace. This is a way to honor the peaceful environment and the people who share it.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Höfn with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Höfn
Ensure a smooth experience
In Höfn, Iceland, tipping is not a common practice as service charges are typically included in the bill. However, if you receive exceptional service at restaurants or cafes, leaving a small tip as a gesture of appreciation is welcomed but not expected.
Most establishments in Höfn, including restaurants, shops, and accommodations, accept credit and debit cards, making cash less necessary. ATMs are available for those who prefer to use cash. It's advisable to check if small vendors accept cards, as this may vary.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Höfn.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Höfn generally runs from March to May. This season sees melting snow and blooming flowers, with temperatures starting to rise, making it an excellent time for hiking and exploring the nearby Vatnajökull National Park. Expect fewer crowds compared to summer, and keep an eye out for migrating birds returning to the area.
Summer, from June to August, is the best time for visitors to explore Höfn and its natural beauty. The weather is warmest, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) and extended daylight hours allowing for midnight sun experiences. This is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and glacier tours. However, it is also the peak tourist season, so expect more crowds.
Autumn, from September to November, is a beautiful time to visit Höfn as the foliage changes colors. The weather starts to cool down, with temperatures between 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). This season offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists, making it perfect for photography and enjoying the serene landscapes. It's also a good time for mushroom picking and witnessing the Northern Lights starting towards late October.
Winter in Höfn lasts from December to February, with cold temperatures averaging between -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F). While the weather can be harsh, this season is marked by stunning snowy landscapes and the potential to see the Northern Lights. Winter activities like ice climbing and snowshoeing attract adventure seekers, but it's advisable to be prepared for limited daylight and harsher weather conditions.
Höfn at Night
Hiking in Höfn
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast area featuring colorful landscapes, unique rock formations, and various hiking trails that provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coast.
Home to Europe's largest glacier, this national park offers numerous hiking routes that take you through glacial valleys, past waterfalls, and along beautiful mountain ranges.
Famous for its dramatic beaches and the iconic Vestrahorn mountain, this area has several hiking trails that offer picturesque views of the cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean.
An area with rugged terrain, volcanic landscapes, and diverse flora and fauna, offering adventurous hikes with breathtaking views.
Part of Vatnajökull National Park, it features a variety of trails that lead to stunning waterfalls, glacier views, and scenic mountain landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Höfn through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Höfn by plane.
The largest international airport in Iceland, located approximately 50 kilometers southwest of Reykjavik.
An airport located in East Iceland, serving as a connection point for regional flights.
An airport located in northern Iceland, supporting both domestic and a few international flights.
A small airport located in the Westfjords region of Iceland, primarily for domestic travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population consisting of native Icelanders who have lived in Höfn for generations.
A significant number of foreign workers, primarily from Eastern Europe, working in industries such as fishing and tourism.
Visitors from various countries, especially during the summer months, contributing to the local economy and culture.
A smaller group of immigrants from different countries seeking permanent residency or asylum in Iceland.
The Soul of Höfn
Discover the essence of Höfn through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a widely popular sport in Höfn, with local teams participating in regional leagues and community events.
Handball is another favorite sport in Höfn, with many clubs and organized games, especially among youth.
Ice hockey has a growing presence in Höfn, with facilities for both training and competition available.
Basketball is enjoyed by both players and fans in Höfn, with community leagues and school tournaments.
Athletics is promoted in Höfn, with events such as running, track, and field being common in local sports programs.
While not a traditional sport, recreational fishing is very popular in Höfn due to its proximity to rich fishing waters.
Hiking is a common recreational activity in and around Höfn, taking advantage of the beautiful landscapes and nature trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Höfn.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Icelandic cuisine leans heavily on seafood and meat, many restaurants in Höfn offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, including veggie soups, salads, and plant-based burgers. Kaffi Hornið and ZBistro are great choices for such options.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free dishes like grilled langoustine and seafood salads at Pakkhús and Hafnarbuðin, which are accommodating to dietary requirements.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Höfn with these cultural adventures.
