Akureyri

Dive into culture, eat great food, and even go skiing in Iceland’s second city.

North Iceland
The botanic gardens in Akureyri
The main street in Akureyri
The botanic gardens in Akureyri
The main street in Akureyri
The botanic gardens in Akureyri
The main street in Akureyri
Best time to visit
All year
Parking
Paid in town center
Charging station
Yes

Akureyri, Iceland: the gateway to the north

Iceland is often said to have just one city, but if there’s any place that can challenge that claim, it’s Akureyri. Billed by locals as the capital of North Iceland, it delivers historic charm, captivating culture, and exciting food experiences.

It doesn’t hurt either that the surrounding area is one of the most beautiful regions of Iceland. Thanks to its sheltered location deep in a fjord, Akureyri gets mild weather all year round. In summer the hillsides are lush, whereas in winter they’re blanketed in powdery snow.

Akureyri town center is packed with traditional wooden buildings from the early 20th century. Walk the main street of Hafnarstræti, which runs to Ráðhústorg square, and you’ll stumble upon a cluster of restaurants, cafés, and shops.

Next to the harbor you’ll find Hof Cultural and Conference Center, Akureyri’s answer to the famous Harpa concert hall in Reykjavík. A short walk from here is the Oddeyri district, which is dotted with more historic buildings.

Activity-wise, for starters there is Akureyri Botanical Garden, just south of the town center. Opened in 1912, the garden was the first public park in Iceland and is home to hundreds of species of plants. It’s a must-visit in summer and has a beautiful café.

In winter, the ski resort just outside town is popular with locals. Although not on a par with Alpine skiing, it’s a great place to get your fix.

Other attractions near Akureyri

The harbor in the fishing village of Húsavík

Húsavík

Get up close to gentle giants on a boat tour from Iceland’s whale watching capital.

75 km (47 mi)

View
Lake Mývatn in its autumn colors

Lake Mývatn

Explore otherworldly lava formations and get close to wildlife near this lush lake.

79 km (49 mi)

View
The Dimmuborgir lava formations in North Iceland

Dimmuborgir

Step into a labyrinth of otherworldly lava formations near the shores of Lake Mývatn.

82 km (51 mi)

View
The Dettifoss waterfall in autumn

Dettifoss

Feel the force of the second most powerful waterfall in Europe.

151 km (94 mi)

View
The harbor in the fishing village of Húsavík

Húsavík

Get up close to gentle giants on a boat tour from Iceland’s whale watching capital.

75 km (47 mi)

View
Lake Mývatn in its autumn colors

Lake Mývatn

Explore otherworldly lava formations and get close to wildlife near this lush lake.

79 km (49 mi)

View
The Dimmuborgir lava formations in North Iceland

Dimmuborgir

Step into a labyrinth of otherworldly lava formations near the shores of Lake Mývatn.

82 km (51 mi)

View
The Dettifoss waterfall in autumn

Dettifoss

Feel the force of the second most powerful waterfall in Europe.

151 km (94 mi)

View

FAQs about Akureyri