Akureyri is a city at the base of Eyjafjörður Fjord in northern Iceland. In the center, the 1940 Akureyri Church has stained-glass windows portraying scenes from Icelandic Christian history. There are views of the fjord from the forecourt. Nearby, the Akureyri Art Museum displays contemporary art from Iceland and farther afield. To the south are the Botanical Gardens, with specimens from across Iceland. ― Google
June to August: Mild temperatures, midnight sun, and lively festivals.
September to October: Fall colors and a good chance to see Northern Lights.
Winter (November to March): Snowy landscapes, great for winter sports and aurora spotting.
Shoulder seasons offer fewer tourists and pleasant weather.
Akureyri Airport (AEY) has domestic flights from Reykjavík and some seasonal international flights.
By car or bus: About 5–6 hours north of Reykjavík via the Ring Road (Route 1).
Local transport: Walking is easy downtown; buses and taxis serve the area.
Akureyri Church (Akureyrarkirkja): A striking Lutheran church perched on a hill overlooking the town.
Botanical Gardens (Lystigarðurinn): One of the northernmost botanical gardens in the world, featuring a surprising variety of plants.
Hof Cultural and Conference Center: Modern venue for concerts, exhibitions, and performances.
The Old Town: Quaint streets with colorful houses, cafés, and galleries.
Eyjafjörður Fjord: Stunning fjord views and whale watching opportunities.
Local museums: The Akureyri Museum and Aviation Museum tell local stories.
Whale watching tours depart from the harbor in summer months.
Explore nearby natural wonders: Go hiking, horseback riding, or visit waterfalls like Goðafoss (Waterfall of the Gods) just a short drive away.
Relax in geothermal pools, including the Akureyri swimming pool with hot tubs and waterslides.
Attend local events and festivals like the Akureyri Cultural Festival in August.
Sample local arts and crafts in galleries and shops.
Comfortable hotels and guesthouses in the town center.
Cosy cabins and farm stays nearby offer authentic rural experiences.
Budget hostels and guesthouses cater to all travel styles.
The local cuisine features fresh seafood, lamb, and traditional Icelandic dishes.
Try:
Plokkfiskur (fish stew)
Fresh Arctic char or cod
Skyr-based desserts and pastries
Cozy cafés serve excellent coffee and homemade cakes.
Craft beer and Icelandic spirits are popular.
Akureyri is a tight-knit community with a lively cultural scene despite its small size.
It’s known for warm hospitality, artistic spirit, and love of nature.
The town balances traditional Icelandic life with modern amenities and festivals.
Many locals are outdoor enthusiasts, reflecting the surrounding wilderness.
Dress in layers — weather can shift quickly, especially near the fjord.
Rent a car if you want to explore beyond the town, as many natural sights are just a short drive away.
Book whale watching and tours in advance during peak season.
Bring a good camera — the scenery around Akureyri is breathtaking year-round.