✦ Quick answer
Akureyri is the gateway to North Iceland and the best base for exploring Goðafoss waterfall, Lake Mývatn, and whale watching in Eyjafjörður. Stay in the walkable downtown near Akureyrarkirkja and the harbor, eat your way through seafood and Icelandic lamb at spots like Strikið and Rub23, and set aside time for the Forest Lagoon geothermal baths. Two to three nights is enough to cover the town and its best day trips.
Akureyri is Iceland's unofficial second city, a compact town of around 19,000 people set at the head of Eyjafjörður, the country's longest fjord. Snow-capped peaks rise straight from the water, a landmark modernist church looks down over red rooftops, and the traffic lights glow with red hearts instead of plain circles, a small touch that tells you a lot about the place.
Despite its size, Akureyri punches far above its weight. It has a genuine cafe culture, a serious restaurant scene built on North Atlantic seafood and lamb, a botanical garden that thrives near the Arctic Circle, and easy access to some of Iceland's headline sights: Goðafoss, Lake Mývatn, and the whale-rich waters of the north.
Most travelers use Akureyri as the anchor of a North Iceland trip, and it rewards a few slow days. Soak in a fjord-view geothermal lagoon, watch humpbacks breach a short sail from downtown, and wander a walkable center where nearly everything worth doing is within ten minutes on foot.
Best time to visit
Summer (June to August) is peak season, with near round-the-clock daylight, reliable whale watching, temperatures around 10-15°C, and every restaurant and tour running. Late May and September are excellent shoulder months with fewer crowds and lower prices. Winter (November to March) brings northern lights, skiing at nearby Hlíðarfjall, and a cozy atmosphere, but shorter days and weather-dependent roads; a 4x4 and flexible plans help. The town lights up for Christmas, and the AkureyriVaka and summer arts events add color if you like timing a trip to a festival.
Getting around
Akureyri Airport (AEY) sits about 3 km from downtown, with roughly 45-minute domestic flights from Reykjavík several times daily, and a growing number of seasonal international routes. Driving from Reykjavík takes about 5 hours via the Ring Road (Route 1). The town center is small and flat enough to explore entirely on foot, and city buses are free. Rent a car if you want to reach Goðafoss, Lake Mývatn, or Húsavík independently; taxis exist but are limited and pricey, so book ahead.
✦ Where to stay
Neighborhoods & hotels
Downtown (Miðbær)The heart of Akureyri around Hafnarstræti and the pedestrian shopping street, walking distance to cafes, restaurants, the church, and the harbor. Best for first-timers who want everything on foot and easy access to whale watching tours.
Innbær / near AkureyrarkirkjaThe older, quieter streets climbing the hill by the landmark church, with heritage houses and fjord views. Suits travelers who want a calm, scenic base still minutes from the center.
Naustahverfi / near the Botanical GardenA leafier residential zone toward the botanical garden and university, a bit removed from the nightlife. Good for families and drivers who prefer easy parking and a slower pace.
Hotel Kea by Keahotelsmidrange Google
The town's most central full-service hotel, right below Akureyrarkirkja and steps from the main street. Reliable comfortable rooms, a good breakfast, and an unbeatable location for exploring on foot.
Hotel Nordurland by Keahotelsmidrange Google
A well-run, slightly quieter sister hotel a couple of blocks from the center, offering solid mid-range rooms and the same breakfast quality as Hotel Kea. A good-value pick for downtown convenience.
Icelandair Hotel Akureyrimidrange Google
A modern, design-forward hotel near the harbor and cultural center, with contemporary rooms and easy access to restaurants. Convenient for whale watching departures and cruise arrivals.
Akureyri Backpackersbudget Google
A friendly, central hostel with dorms and private rooms above a lively bar and travel desk, perfect for solo travelers and budget trips. A great spot to book tours and swap tips with other travelers.
Hotel Kjarnalundurfamily friendly Google
Set in wooded surroundings just outside the center near the botanical woods, with more space and a nature-close feel. Suits families and drivers who want quiet and easy parking.
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✦ Eat & drink
Best Coffee Shops
Akureyri has a cafe culture that outsizes its population, ideal for warming up between fjord walks.
Bláa Kannan Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
The blue corrugated-iron landmark on the main street is Akureyri's most photographed cafe, and the coffee and cakes hold up to the fame. Cozy, wood-paneled interior and reliable espresso, plus generous slices of cake around 1,200-1,700 ISK. Order a latte and a slice and settle in by the window.
Kaffi Ilmur Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
A homey cafe in a historic house serving good coffee alongside a popular lunch buffet with soups, breads, and cakes. A local favorite for a relaxed midday break. Lunch runs roughly 2,500-3,500 ISK.
Te & Kaffi Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Iceland's homegrown coffee chain has a busy, dependable branch on the pedestrian street, roasting its own beans. Good for a quick, quality flat white and free wifi. Expect around 700-900 ISK for a coffee.
✦ Eat & drink
Where to Eat Breakfast & Brunch
Berlin Google
A small, beloved spot that serves breakfast and brunch all day, from eggs and pancakes to hearty plates. Popular enough that you may wait at weekends, so arrive early. Plates run roughly 2,200-3,200 ISK.
Kristjáns Bakarí Google
A classic Icelandic bakery for a grab-and-go morning: fresh bread, cinnamon snúður, and pastries at fair prices. A local institution and the cheapest satisfying breakfast in town. Pastries around 400-700 ISK.
Bautinn Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 - 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 - 10:00 PM
A long-running family restaurant on the main street that opens early and does a solid breakfast alongside its all-day menu. Unfussy, filling, and central. Breakfast around 2,000-2,800 ISK.
✦ Eat & drink
Best Restaurants
North Atlantic seafood and Icelandic lamb anchor a surprisingly ambitious dining scene.
Strikið Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 - 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 - 9:00 PM
A top-floor restaurant with sweeping fjord views and a menu built around fresh fish, lamb, and sushi. The go-to for a special dinner in Akureyri, so book ahead in summer. Mains run roughly 4,500-7,500 ISK.
Rub23 Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM, 5:00 - 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 5:00 - 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 5:00 - 10:00 PM
Known for its signature flavored 'rubs' on fish and meat, plus a strong sushi menu. Sleek, modern, and one of the town's most reliable higher-end tables. Reserve for weekend evenings; mains around 4,500-7,000 ISK.
Múlaberg Bistro & Bar Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 2:00 PM - 12:00 AM
- Tuesday: 2:00 PM - 12:00 AM
- Wednesday: 2:00 PM - 1:00 AM
- Thursday: 2:00 PM - 1:00 AM
- Friday: 2:00 PM - 1:00 AM
- Saturday: 2:00 PM - 1:00 AM
- Sunday: 4:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Inside Hotel Kea, this bistro does refined Icelandic small plates and mains with local ingredients in a comfortable setting. A dependable choice for a relaxed but polished meal. Mains around 4,000-6,500 ISK.
Greifinn Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
A crowd-pleasing family restaurant famous for pizzas, burgers, and huge portions at friendlier prices. Great for a casual dinner or with kids. Pizzas and mains around 2,500-4,500 ISK.
Noa Seafood Restaurant Google
Closed Mondays & Sundays
Opening hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 5:00 - 8:30 PM
- Wednesday: 5:00 - 8:30 PM
- Thursday: 5:00 - 8:30 PM
- Friday: 5:00 - 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 5:00 - 9:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
A harbor-side spot focused on fresh local catch, from fish soup to grilled fillets, in a relaxed nautical setting. Good value for the quality of the seafood. Mains around 3,500-6,000 ISK.
✦ Top experiences
Top Things to Do in Akureyri
Nearly all the town highlights are walkable, and the fjord itself is the star attraction.
Akureyrarkirkja Google
The town's iconic modernist church, designed by state architect Guðjón Samúelsson (also behind Reykjavík's Hallgrímskirkja), sits atop a flight of steps with commanding fjord views. Step inside to see the stained glass and a suspended ship. Free to enter, and the climb up is a quick highlight.
Lystigarðurinn (Akureyri Botanical Garden) Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
One of the world's northernmost botanical gardens, thriving with Icelandic and imported plants just south of the center. A peaceful free stroll, especially in summer bloom, with a small cafe. Open roughly June to September, generally free entry.
Forest Lagoon (Skógarböðin) Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 9:00 AM - 11:30 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 11:30 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 11:30 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM - 11:30 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM - 11:30 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM - 11:30 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM - 11:30 PM
A geothermal bath set in woodland across the fjord, with warm pools looking out over Eyjafjörður and Akureyri. A stylish, less crowded alternative to the south's Blue Lagoon. Entry runs roughly 5,900-6,900 ISK; there's a cold plunge, sauna, and a swim-up bar.
Whale Watching from Downtown Akureyri
Humpbacks feed in Eyjafjörður through the summer, and boats leave right from the downtown harbor on a family-friendly tour that runs year-round. Sightings are common, and the fjord scenery alone is worth the trip. Dress warmly; tours last around 3 hours.
Akureyri Express Whale Watching by RIB Boat
For a faster, more thrilling trip, this small-group RIB tour (max 12 people) speeds out to the humpbacks with a personal guide. Great chances of close encounters in about 2 hours. Waterproof suits are provided.
Zipline Adventure Through Glerárgil River Canyon
A surprising thrill right in town: zipline across the Glerárgil canyon that splits Akureyri, with lines over the river and gorge. Fun for adventurous travelers and families, guides handle all the gear. Around 2 hours; a good rainy-day option too.
✦ After dark
Bars & Nightlife
Small but spirited, Akureyri's nightlife concentrates on and around the main street.
Götubarinn
A cozy, characterful bar with a warren of rooms and a lively local crowd, especially on weekends. Good beer selection and the kind of place conversations run late in summer's endless daylight. Pints around 1,300-1,700 ISK.
R5 Micro Bar
A relaxed spot for Icelandic craft beer with a rotating tap list and a friendly vibe. Popular with beer-focused travelers. Expect around 1,400-1,800 ISK a pour.
Backpackers Bar
The ground-floor bar at Akureyri Backpackers draws a mixed crowd of travelers and locals, with fair prices and a social atmosphere. A good first stop for a night out. Pints around 1,200-1,500 ISK.
✦ Beyond the city
Day Trips Worth Taking
Some of North Iceland's biggest sights are within easy reach, whether you drive or join a tour.
Goðafoss Waterfall
The 'Waterfall of the Gods' is a wide, horseshoe cascade about 35 km east of Akureyri, right off the Ring Road and easily reached in under 40 minutes by car. Guided tours also run from the port with viewing time and folklore. One of the most photogenic waterfalls in the north.
Lake Mývatn, Hot-Springs & Goðafoss Tour
The classic North Iceland day out combines Goðafoss with the volcanic wonderland of Lake Mývatn: pseudocraters, lava formations at Dimmuborgir, and the Mývatn Nature Baths. This roughly 6-hour tour is the easiest way to see it all without driving. A strong introduction to the region's geology.
Big Whales & Puffins RIB Tour from Húsavík
Húsavík, about an hour north, is Iceland's self-styled whale-watching capital, and Skjálfandi Bay delivers exceptional sightings. This fast RIB tour (max 12 guests) adds puffin viewing and covers a wide area in about 2 hours. Worth the drive for serious whale enthusiasts.
Traditional Oak Boat Whale Watching from Húsavík
For a gentler experience, sail Skjálfandi Bay aboard a restored wooden oak boat with a local family company on a relaxed 3-hour tour. Excellent chances of humpbacks and other whales in these rich waters. A charming, classic way to whale watch.
Combo Tour: Goðafoss, Laufás & The Christmas House
A shorter half-day option that pairs Goðafoss with Laufás, a preserved turf-house farm, and the year-round Christmas House (Jólagarðurinn). Guides share history and Icelandic folktales along the way. Good for travelers short on time or wanting culture alongside scenery.
✦ Good to know
Before you visit
MoneyIceland is effectively cashless; cards (including contactless) are accepted everywhere, even for tiny purchases. You rarely need krónur in cash. Iceland is expensive, so budget for high food and tour prices.
LanguageIcelandic is the official language, but English is spoken fluently almost everywhere, including shops, restaurants, and tours. You won't have communication trouble.
TippingTipping is not expected in Iceland; service is included in prices. Rounding up or leaving a little for exceptional service is appreciated but never required.
Getting aroundDowntown Akureyri is fully walkable and city buses are free. Rent a car to reach Goðafoss, Lake Mývatn, or Húsavík independently, and check road conditions at road.is in winter.
Geothermal pool etiquetteAt the Forest Lagoon and public pools, you must shower thoroughly without a swimsuit before entering, per Icelandic custom. It's a firmly observed rule of hygiene.
Power & SIMIceland uses European Type F plugs at 230V. Mobile coverage is strong in and around Akureyri; a local eSIM or a Síminn/Nova SIM gives cheap, reliable data for navigation.
WeatherNorthern weather changes fast in any season, so pack warm, waterproof layers even in summer. Whale watching and boat tours can be cold on the water regardless of the date.
✦ Before you go
Plan-ahead checklist
Book whale watching tours from Akureyri or Húsavík ahead in summer, as popular departures fill up. book 1-2 weeks ahead in peak season
Reserve tables at Strikið and Rub23 for dinner, especially on summer weekends. a few days ahead
Reserve a Lake Mývatn and Goðafoss day tour if you're not renting a car. book 1 week ahead
Confirm domestic flights or Ring Road driving times between Reykjavík and Akureyri, and check road.is for winter conditions.
Pack warm, waterproof layers and swimwear for the Forest Lagoon and boat tours, whatever the season.
Akureyri proves that Iceland's magic isn't confined to the south: here you get whales in the fjord, waterfalls and volcanic wonderlands within an hour, geothermal baths with a view, and a walkable town that eats and drinks far better than its size suggests. Give it a few unhurried days, and North Iceland will win you over. Start planning, and pack for weather that changes as fast as the scenery.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Akureyri?
Two to three days is ideal: one to explore the walkable town, the church, botanical garden, and Forest Lagoon, and one or two more for day trips to Goðafoss, Lake Mývatn, and whale watching. Fewer than two days means rushing the excellent nearby sights.
Is Akureyri worth visiting?
Yes. Akureyri is the best base in North Iceland, combining a genuine cafe and restaurant scene, geothermal baths, and easy access to Goðafoss, Lake Mývatn, and some of the country's most reliable whale watching, all with far fewer crowds than the south.
How do you get from Reykjavík to Akureyri?
You can fly in about 45 minutes on frequent domestic flights to Akureyri Airport, or drive roughly 5 hours along the Ring Road (Route 1). Flying is fastest, while driving lets you stop at sights along the way.
Is Akureyri expensive?
Yes, like all of Iceland. Expect restaurant mains around 3,500-7,500 ISK, tours from about $90-200 per person, and mid-range hotels that cost more than European averages. Bakeries, free city buses, and self-catering help keep costs down.
Can you see whales in Akureyri?
Yes. Humpback whales feed in Eyjafjörður through the summer, and tours depart right from the downtown harbor with high sighting rates. Nearby Húsavík, about an hour away, is Iceland's whale-watching capital and offers even more options.
When is the best time to visit Akureyri?
June to August offers the most daylight, warmest weather, and full tour availability, while May and September are quieter and cheaper. Winter is best for northern lights and skiing but has short days and variable roads.
Top-Rated Places to Eat, See & Stay
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