Akureyri

Iceland, Europe

Akureyri, the 'Capital of North Iceland', is a charming town known for its vibrant culture and stunning natural surroundings. Home to picturesque landscapes, it boasts the beautiful Akureyri Botanical Garden, iconic church Akureyrarkirkja, and proximity to the stunning Lake Mývatn Geothermal Area. It's appealing for its unique blend of urban life and outdoor adventure, including winter sports and northern lights viewing, making it a perfect base for exploring the majestic fjords and waterfalls of the region.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Other

Airport

Akureyri

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Akureyri

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Akureyri Botanical Garden

Explore diverse plant life in one of the northernmost botanical gardens.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Myvatn Nature Baths

Soak in geothermal waters with spectacular views of nature.

No booking required
3

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Akureyri Church

Admire stunning architecture and panoramic views of the city.

No booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Whale Watching Tours

Experience thrilling boat tours to see majestic whales.

Booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Akureyri Art Museum

Discover contemporary Icelandic art in a charming setting.

No booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Northern Lights Tours

Chase the magical auroras in the Icelandic sky.

Booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Museum of Cultural History

Learn about local history and heritage through exhibits.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike in the nearby mountains

Enjoy breathtaking landscapes and invigorating trails.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Go on a Snowmobiling Adventure

Experience adrenaline-fueled rides across Iceland's snowfields.

Booking required
10

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste local cuisine at a restaurant

Savor traditional Icelandic dishes in cozy local spots.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very High

LGBTQ+ safety score

10 (#8 globally)

Cost

Very Expensive

Currency

Iceland Krona

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Icelandic

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Hákarl

Fermented shark, a traditional dish. (National dish)

Skyr

V

Icelandic yogurt, thick and creamy.

Kjötsúpa

Hearty lamb soup with vegetables.

Pylsur

Icelandic hot dog, served with various toppings.

Rúgbrauð

VE

Dark rye bread, often served with butter.

Phrases to learn

English

Icelandic

Hello

Halló

(Ha-loh)

Yes/No

Ja / Nei

(Yow / Nay)

Thank you

Takk

(Tack)

Excuse me

Afsakið

(Af-sah-kith)

How much?

Hversu mikið?

(Kwer-soo mee-kith)