Akureyri
About Akureyri
Akureyri is the capital of North Iceland and the country's second largest urban area, situated at the head of the stunning Eyjafjörður, Iceland's longest fjord. Known as the "Capital of the North," this charming town of around 19,000 people feels surprisingly cosmopolitan with its botanical garden, university, and lively cultural scene.
The town serves as an ideal base for exploring the Diamond Circle route, whale watching in Eyjafjörður, skiing at Hlíðarfjall, and visiting the otherworldly landscapes of nearby Mývatn. Despite its northern location just 100 km from the Arctic Circle, Akureyri enjoys a relatively mild microclimate.
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Quick Tips
- Currency: Icelandic Króna (ISK). Cards are accepted everywhere, even in small cafés and gas stations. Cash is rarely needed.
- Transport: The town center is walkable. Local buses are free in Akureyri. A rental car is essential for exploring the surrounding attractions like Mývatn and Goðafoss.
- Tipping: Not expected in Iceland. Prices include service. Tipping is appreciated but not customary.
- Heart-shaped Traffic Lights: Akureyri's red traffic lights are heart-shaped — a unique local tradition started in 2008 to spread positivity during the financial crisis.
- Skiing: Hlíðarfjall ski resort is just 5 minutes from town and offers some of the best skiing in Iceland with stunning fjord views from the slopes.
Interesting Places to Visit
Akureyrarkirkja
The iconic Lutheran church perched atop a hill overlooking the town. Designed by Guðjón Samúelsson (who also designed Hallgrímskirkja), it features a striking Art Deco interior and a beautiful stained glass window from the original Coventry Cathedral.
Akureyri Botanical Garden (Lystigarðurinn)
The world's most northerly botanical garden, home to nearly every plant species native to Iceland plus thousands of foreign species. Free entry. Beautifully maintained and a testament to Akureyri's surprisingly mild climate.
Goðafoss (Waterfall of the Gods)
A spectacular 12-meter-high horseshoe-shaped waterfall just 30 minutes from Akureyri. Named after the Norse chieftain who threw his pagan idols into the falls upon Iceland's conversion to Christianity in 1000 AD.
Lake Mývatn
A stunning volcanic lake about an hour east of Akureyri surrounded by lava formations, pseudocraters, and bubbling mud pots. Don't miss the Mývatn Nature Baths — a quieter, cheaper alternative to the Blue Lagoon.
Dalvík & Whale Watching
A small fishing village 30 minutes north of Akureyri, famous for excellent whale watching tours in Eyjafjörður. Humpback whales are frequently spotted, along with dolphins and porpoises. Also known for the annual Great Fish Day festival.
Christmas House (Jólahúsið)
A year-round Christmas shop and garden on the outskirts of Akureyri. Filled with Icelandic Christmas ornaments, decorations, and a giant advent calendar. A fun stop, especially for families.
Hrísey Island
A peaceful island in the middle of Eyjafjörður accessible by a 15-minute ferry ride. Known as the "Pearl of Eyjafjörður," it's perfect for birdwatching, walking trails, and experiencing a quieter side of Icelandic life.
When to Visit
Akureyri sits near the Arctic Circle, so seasons bring dramatic changes in daylight and conditions:
🌸 Spring (April – May)
Warming up (0–10°C) with rapidly lengthening days. Snow begins to melt, waterfalls surge, and migratory birds return. The botanical garden starts blooming in late May.
- Goðafoss at peak flow from snowmelt
- Late-season skiing at Hlíðarfjall
- Bird migration begins at Mývatn
☀️ Summer (June – August)
The warmest season (10–17°C) with midnight sun. All roads and hiking trails are open. Best time for whale watching and exploring the Diamond Circle.
- Midnight sun — continuous daylight
- Akureyri Town Festival (late August)
- Whale watching season at its best
🍂 Autumn (September – October)
Cooling rapidly (1–8°C) with stunning fall colors in the fjord valleys. Northern Lights season begins. Fewer tourists and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Northern Lights start appearing
- Beautiful autumn colors in Kjarnaskógur forest
- Réttir sheep roundup in the highlands
❄️ Winter (November – March)
Cold and snowy (−5 to 2°C) with very short days. Excellent for skiing at Hlíðarfjall and Northern Lights hunting. The town has a cozy, festive atmosphere with Christmas lights and events.
- Hlíðarfjall ski season (Nov – May)
- Prime Northern Lights viewing
- Festive Christmas lights and markets
Where to Eat (Affordable & Good)
Akureyri has a surprisingly good food scene for its size. Here are the best spots for quality meals at reasonable Icelandic prices:
Akureyri Fish & Chips$
Fresh, crispy fish and chips made with locally caught fish and homemade batters — choose from various flavors like lemon-pepper and Icelandic herbs. A filling meal for around 2,200 ISK (~€15).
Brynja$
Legendary ice cream shop that has been serving Akureyri's best soft-serve since 1942. Locals will tell you it's the best ice cream in Iceland. Dipped cones from 600 ISK (~€4). A must-visit.
Café Berlin$ – $$
Popular downtown café with hearty lunches, homemade cakes, and great coffee. The lunch specials offer excellent value with soup and sandwich combos around 2,500 ISK (~€17).
Rub23$$ – $$$
A well-loved sushi and grill restaurant known for its creative Icelandic-Japanese fusion dishes. Fresh arctic char sushi and grilled fish are highlights. Mains from 3,500–5,500 ISK (~€24–38).
Strikið$$
Fine dining with a view, located on the top floor overlooking Eyjafjörður. Known for beautifully presented Icelandic seafood and lamb. Lunch menus offer better value around 3,000–4,000 ISK (~€21–28).
Götubarinn$ – $$
A lively gastropub on the main street serving burgers, fish dishes, and Icelandic pub food with local craft beers. Great atmosphere and live music on weekends. Mains around 2,500–3,500 ISK (~€17–24).
Bautinn$ – $$
A long-standing family restaurant in the heart of town serving traditional Icelandic dishes — lamb, fish, and hearty soups. Reliable, generous portions, and welcoming to visitors. Mains from 2,800–4,000 ISK (~€19–28).