Articles about Akureyri
Akureyri is the unofficial capital of North Iceland, and for most travelers it’s the natural base for exploring this part of the country. It sits at the head of Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord, about a five-hour drive or a short flight from Reykjavík. The town is not big, but there’s more here than first meets the eye.
If you’re looking for things to do in Akureyri, start with the botanical garden, the church on the hill, and a wander down Hafnarstræti, the main street, for coffee and a bite. The town punches above its weight for restaurants and bakeries, so you won’t go hungry. In winter, it’s one of the best places in the country for skiing, and the fjord is a reliable spot for whale watching in the warmer months.
Most people, though, use Akureyri as a launchpad for day trips. Within an hour or two, you can reach Goðafoss waterfall, the geothermal area at Mývatn, the whale-watching town of Húsavík, and the Forest Lagoon just outside town for a quiet soak. It’s also a natural starting point for the Diamond Circle route.
The practical things matter here, too. Akureyri works year-round, but the experience changes a lot with the seasons — long bright evenings in summer, northern lights and snow in winter. A rental car makes getting around easiest, though the town itself is walkable.
In this section, you’ll find my guides to Akureyri and North Iceland: where to stay, what to eat, when to visit, and the trips worth your time — the honest, practical advice we’d give a friend planning the same journey.
The Beer Spa – Perfect Combination in Northern Iceland
Get the Perfect Brunch- Try Our Favorite Café in Akureyri
Looking for a Hotel in Akureyri? Here is a Perfect Hotel for You
Is This the Worst Idea in Icelandic Tourism?
