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North Iceland

Iceland, Europe

North Iceland is a land of dramatic landscapes, featuring geothermal wonders, stunning waterfalls, and the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Known for its unique attractions such as Lake Mývatn, Dettifoss waterfall, and Akureyri - Iceland's second city, it offers opportunities for whale watching, hot springs, and adventurous hikes. With fewer tourists compared to the south, it provides an authentic Icelandic experience amidst captivating natural beauty.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Region

Vibe

Active

Airport

Akureyri

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

13 Best Things to Do in North Iceland

1. See the Northern Lights

Witness the breathtaking aurora borealis phenomenon.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

2. Explore Lake Mývatn

Discover unique landscapes and geothermal activity around the lake.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

4 hrs

3. Visit Akureyri Botanical Garden

Stroll through diverse plant species in beautiful settings.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

4. Hike in Ásbyrgi Canyon

Experience stunning cliffs and tranquil nature trails.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

5. Relax in Myvatn Nature Baths

Enjoy natural hot springs with stunning lake views.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

2 hrs

6. Explore Húsavík for Whale Watching

Embark on an unforgettable whale watching adventure.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

7. Visit Goðafoss Waterfall

Marvel at one of Iceland's most famous waterfalls.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

8. Discover the Ice Caves in Vatnajökull

Explore stunning blue ice caves and glacial formations.

Seasonal

Adults only

Booking required

5 hrs

9. See the Lava Fields at Dimmuborgir

Wander through unique lava formations and craters.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

10. Visit the Arctic Henge

Explore a unique artistic monument dedicated to the Arctic.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

11. Tour the Siglufjörður Folk Music Centre

Dive into Icelandic folk music culture and history.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

12. Ski at Hlíðarfjall

Enjoy skiing with beautiful mountain views.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

4 hrs

13. Visit the Whale Museum in Húsavík

Learn about marine life and conservation efforts.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

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)