Explore Hรบsavรญk

Húsavík is a town in Norðurþing municipality on the northeast coast of Iceland on the shores of Skjálfandi bay with 2,485 inhabitants. The most famous landmark of the town is the wooden church Húsavíkurkirkja, built in 1907. Húsavík is served by Húsavík Airport. Wikipedia

๐Ÿ“… Best Time to Visit

  • June to August: Peak whale watching season with mild weather and nearly 24-hour daylight.

  • May & September: Fewer crowds but still great chances for whale sightings.

  • October to April: Off-season — quieter, with limited tours and cold weather, but great for Northern Lights if skies are clear.

๐Ÿš— How to Get There

  • By car: ~1 hour drive from Akureyri along scenic roads.

  • By bus: Seasonal routes connect with Akureyri and other northern towns.

  • By air: Húsavík has a small local airstrip but is typically reached via Akureyri Airport.

๐Ÿ‹ Top Attractions

  • Whale Watching Tours: The town's biggest draw — see humpbacks, minkes, blue whales, and sometimes dolphins or puffins.

  • Húsavík Whale Museum: A must-visit for understanding Iceland’s marine life and conservation efforts.

  • GeoSea Geothermal Baths: Cliffside infinity pools with views of the bay and mountains — an unforgettable experience.

  • Húsavíkurkirkja: A charming wooden church built in 1907 with striking architecture.

  • Harborfront & Marina: Colorful boats, seafood spots, and peaceful walks.

๐ŸŽฏ Things to Do

  • Take a traditional oak boat whale-watching tour — more authentic and eco-friendly.

  • Soak in GeoSea with views of the Arctic Circle across the bay.

  • Visit the Exploration Museum, highlighting Iceland’s connection to NASA’s Apollo training programs.

  • Explore nearby Ásbyrgi Canyon and Lake Mývatn, both within driving distance.

  • Watch the midnight sun in summer or hunt Northern Lights in winter (if staying overnight).

๐Ÿ›๏ธ Accommodation

  • Small hotels and guesthouses with fjord views or harbor access.

  • Family-run inns and farm stays offer warmth and Icelandic hospitality.

  • Book early during summer — the town gets busy during whale season.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Food & Drink

  • Seafood is king in Húsavík — fresh, local, and often caught the same day.

  • Try:

    • Pan-fried Arctic char

    • Fish stew (plokkfiskur)

    • Lobster soup

  • Cozy cafés and bistros serve hearty Icelandic dishes, coffee, and homemade desserts.

  • Local breweries and pubs offer a laid-back vibe and excellent Icelandic beers.

  • The town was featured in the film “Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga”, making it globally recognizable for the song “Húsavík”.


Travel Tips

  • Dress in warm layers even in summer — boat tours can get cold.

  • GeoSea can sell out — book a time slot in advance during peak months.

  • Bring binoculars and a zoom lens for whale or puffin spotting.

  • Combine Húsavík with a northern loop including Mývatn, Dettifoss, and Ásbyrgi.