So, you’re planning a trip to Akureyri — or you’re here and looking for inspiration for what to do. Well, look no further. We will share our favourite activities in and around this charming town. But before we get into it, let’s get to know the place.
Introduction to Akureyri & Its History
Akureyri is located at the bottom of the Eyjaförður fjord in North Iceland. Its location on the shores of the Eyjafjörður fjord, surrounded by mountains, makes it a picturesque destination for travellers seeking natural beauty and adventure.
Initially, it functioned as a Danish merchant site before it became a full-time settlement in the late 18th century. It has since grown into a vibrant cultural and economic centre. Today, it is a hub of domestic and international tourist activity, with an international airport and cruise port.
The town takes its name from Akur, meaning “fields”, as the area’s motto is: “where the butter drips from every straw”. Today, there are a lot of dairy farms still in operation. So, in addition to the cows, when driving along the coast, you’ll also see loads of sheep roaming free.
It’s common to hear Akureyri being referred to as Iceland’s second-largest city, but technically, it’s not a city at all. In Iceland, Reykjavík is the only city. That being said, Akureyri is still a pretty big deal! As of January 2023, Akureyri was home to around 20,000 people, making it the fifth-largest municipality in the country.
Akureyri Weather: What to Expect Throughout the Year
The weather in Akureyri is actually quite good. The North is more likely to get higher temperatures in summer — in fact, I’ve broken a sweat just from the outside temperature on visits up North, an experience Reykjavík has yet to offer me.
The flip side is that winter is very wintery. You’re also more likely to get much more snow and colder temperatures, and for longer, up north. This can result in road closures or generally rougher conditions on the road, which can impact your travel.
Akureyri from Reykjavík (and Beyond)
There are a few ways to get to Akureyri, depending on your starting point:
- Domestic flight: The easiest and fastest way to reach Akureyri is by taking a domestic flight from Reykjavík. Several daily flights operated by Icelandair connect Reykjavík’s domestic airport (RKV) to Akureyri Airport (AEY). The flight duration is approximately 45 minutes.
- Driving: If you prefer a scenic road trip, you can drive to Akureyri. From Reykjavík, take Route 1 (Ring Road) heading North. The drive takes around 4-6 hours, depending on road conditions and stops along the way. The route offers breathtaking landscapes, including waterfalls, mountains, and fjords.
- Bus: Another option is to take a bus from Reykjavík’s Mjódd Bus Terminal. The public transportation service, Strætó, provides scheduled services to Akureyri via bus number 57. The journey takes approximately 7-8 hours, with stops at various towns along the way.
- Cruise ship: During the summer, Akureyri is a popular port of call for cruise ships visiting Iceland. If you are on a cruise, check with your cruise line for specific details on arrival and departure arrangements.
- One of the best ways to visit Akureyri is on a Self-Drive Tour
5 Top Sights to See in Akureyri
Akureyri, the largest settlement in North Iceland, is known for its rich culture and history. With a population of around 20,000, the city has a small-town feel. Still, it offers a variety of cultural experiences for visitors to enjoy, not to mention countless natural attractions.
So, let’s dive into some of the top attractions you won’t want to miss in this vibrant town.
1. Akureyri Church
With its distinctive stepped roof and towering spire visible from all over town, Akureyri Church stands as the area’s most recognizable landmark.
This Neo-Gothic structure was designed by Guðjón Samúelsson, one of Iceland’s most renowned architects, who also designed the famous Hallgrímskirkja church in Reykjavík. Inside, you’ll find beautiful stained-glass windows and one of the largest organs in Iceland.
Stop by and see who among you is the fastest to climb the 130 steps that lead up to this impressive landmark. These steps are the subject of several traditional town competitions, from a simple “who can get up there the fastest” to “who can stay on their BMX and not hurt themselves as they ride down the steps”.
2. Akureyri Botanical Garden
No visit to Akureyri is complete without a trip to the Botanic Garden. This place is home to over 7000 plant species and a lovely café. On a hot day, the locals rush here to get shade under the trees.
One of my favourite things that happened to me in Akureyri happened right here. I was enjoying my day with the family when we spotted the president of Iceland, Guðni Th. Jóhanneson. He was just chilling on the grass, like all the other guests. This is a big reason to love Iceland and Icelanders – even the president can walk around safe and undisturbed.
3. Akureyri Art Museum & Hof Cultural And Conference Center
The Akureyri Art Museum and Hof Cultural Center are two of Akureyri’s most popular cultural attractions.
The Akureyri Art Museum is housed in a beautifully restored building and features a wide range of contemporary and modern art exhibitions. It showcases the work of both Icelandic and international artists, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia works. The exhibits change regularly, so there’s always something new to see.
The Hof Cultural Center, located in a modern building near the town centre, is a hub for cultural activities and events in Akureyri. The centre features a state-of-the-art concert hall, a cinema, a restaurant, and various exhibition spaces, including galleries showcasing contemporary art, photography, and design.
The centre hosts a range of events throughout the year, including concerts, film screenings, theatre performances, and art exhibitions. It’s a great place to experience the vibrant cultural scene in Akureyri and meet other like-minded travellers and locals.
4. Godafoss Waterfall
Easily accessible by road from Akureyri is the stunning Goðafoss Waterfall, aka “Waterfall of the Gods”.
The waterfall is situated on the Skjálfandafljót River and is approximately 12 meters high and 30 meters wide. The water falls into a horseshoe-shaped canyon, creating a powerful and mesmerizing display of cascading water.
- Read about the 25 Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Iceland here
Visitors to the waterfall can enjoy stunning views from various viewpoints and hiking trails surrounding the area. During winter, the waterfall is also a popular spot for viewing the Northern Lights, adding to its already impressive natural beauty.
5. Jolahusid Christmas House
Akureyri is an excellent destination if you’re travelling with children, and Jólahúsið is a must-see for all families. Jólahúsið, or “the Christmas House”, is, as the name suggests, a tribute to Christmas and all things related to this festive season.
Inside, you’ll find a variety of Christmas decorations and gifts, from traditional Icelandic sweaters to more modern items. The shop also stocks a selection of local delicacies, such as smoked lamb and leaf bread.
- Find out why you need to visit Iceland at Christmas time here
Although the shop is open year-round, the Christmas house really comes alive in December when it is filled with decorations and special events. It’s a great place to pick up a unique Icelandic souvenir or just enjoy the festive atmosphere.
5 Top Outdoor Activities to Do in Akureyri
If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, Akureyri in Northern Iceland has it all. From skiing and snowboarding to whale watching and hiking, Akureyri offers a wide variety of activities that will keep you entertained while exploring the beautiful landscape of this unique city.
Here are 5 of the best things to see and do during your visit to Akureyri:
1. Skiing in Akureyri
Akureyri is the perfect destination for a winter ski holiday. It offers some of the best skiing conditions in the country, with plenty of snowfall during the winter months and a variety of ski slopes suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers. In addition, the surrounding mountains provide breathtaking views and ample opportunities to explore off-piste terrain.
Akureyri is home to the largest ski resort in northern Iceland, Hlíðarfjall Ski Resort. Hlíðarfjall offers various skiing and snowboarding opportunities with 24 slopes and 8 lifts, and 5 cross-country tracks. The resort also features a terrain park and a ski school, making it an ideal spot for families and beginners.
Skiing in Akureyri typically runs from November to May, with the best snow conditions usually occurring from December to March. The ski season is also a great time to visit Akureyri. The city is transformed into a winter wonderland with festive lights and decorations, cosy cafes and bars, and a range of winter activities and events.
2. Akureyri Northern Lights Hunting
Akureyri is a beautiful place during the wintertime. Aside from its festive lights and snowy landscapes, Akureyri offers excellent opportunities to witness the dancing lights of the Northern Lights.
- Find Northern Light Tours here
Northern Lights hunting in Akureyri is an exhilarating adventure that takes you into the heart of North Iceland’s wilderness. Guided tours are available to take you to optimal viewing spots away from city lights, increasing your chances of witnessing this natural phenomenon.
On clear nights, the vibrant ribbons of green, pink, and purple illuminate the dark sky, creating a magical spectacle. The expert guides provide insights into the science and folklore surrounding the Northern Lights that only enhances the experience.
3. Hiking Around the Countryside
Akureyri is an excellent destination for hiking enthusiasts, with plenty of stunning trails and hiking routes. The city is surrounded by mountains and valleys, and the nearby Mývatn Area offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Iceland.
One of the most popular hiking routes in Akureyri is the Súlur Trail, which takes you to the summit of Súlur, a prominent mountain that rises over the city. The trail is challenging but rewarding, with stunning views of the fjord and the surrounding mountains. The local authorities advise setting aside 4.5 to 6 hours for the trip if you drive to the foot of the mountain. Add about 2 more hours if you plan to start the hike in the town.
Other popular hiking destinations in the Akureyri area include the scenic Goðafoss waterfall, the otherworldly Hverir geothermal area, and the Kjarnaskógur Forest, an excellent spot for a relaxing stroll or a family picnic.
4. Whale Watching from Akureyri
Whale watching is a popular activity in and around Akureyri, thanks to the abundant marine life in the nearby waters.
Several companies offer whale-watching tours from Akureyri’s harbour or nearby towns, taking visitors onto the fjord to search for humpback whales, minke whales, and other species that call these waters home. In the summer, you may even spot a puffin or two.
- Explore Whale Watching Tours in Iceland here
5. Geothermal Bathing in North Iceland
Akureyri is famous all over Iceland for its public swimming pool. This place is a must-visit for anyone, with or without kids. If you dare, try the water slide that my family has dubbed “the toilet”. You’ll know why once you’re in it: it’s a round, hollow shell where you’re swirled around the inside until you are “flushed” out through a drain in the bottom.
Another popular option is the Mývatn Nature Baths, located outside Akureyri in the Lake Mývatn area. However, a new addition to the local bathing scene is the Forest Lagoon, which has a quirky history.
While digging a tunnel through a mountain, workers accidentally struck a natural water source and thus created a new waterfall. The water came from a natural geothermal spring, making the waterfall perhaps the warmest in the world. Now, the water has been diverted to a spa with two geothermal pools, a Finnish dry sauna, and amazing views!
5 Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures in Akureyri
Akureyri and its surroundings are filled with hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path adventures you won’t find in any tourist guide. From exploring the stunning islands of the Eyjafjörður Fjord to exploring the charming turf houses at Laufás, there’s so much to discover. You can even visit a petting zoo or dog sledding and enjoy the region’s natural beauty.
I highly recommend getting off the tourist trail and exploring these 5 lesser-known places. You won’t regret it!
1. Boat Tours to the Arctic Circle
If you have time to commit to exploring North Iceland, you can visit the beautiful islands of Hrísey and Grímsey. The former is a short sail away, while the trip to Grímsey is approximately 3 hours long. Both islands are accessible by ferries or boats from Akureyri or nearby villages. You can even take a plane to Grímsey from Akureyri Airport.
Hrísey Island is well known for its incredible beauty, stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and abundant natural resources. Grímsey is better known as the only part of Iceland located within the Arctic Circle, which is marked by a line that visitors can cross to officially enter the Arctic. Grímsey also features stunning natural beauty and unique wildlife, including a variety of seabirds such as puffins and arctic terns.
2. Diving in Geothermal Waters
If water is your element, there’s a lot for you to do and see in Akureyri. From fishing in the fjord (even ice fishing in winter months) to white water rafting, there’s something for everyone in and on the water. At Traveo, we even cooperate with a world-record-holding kayaker to offer small-group kayaking trips.
However, if you are looking for a truly unique water-based adventure, a diving trip might be just the thing for you. Diving in North Iceland offers a unique opportunity for experienced divers to explore a world of subaquatic scenery. You’ll see underwater hot springs and geothermal vents, not to mention an abundance of wildlife, including wolffish, redfish, and colourful anemones. Dive in North Iceland’s waters on this Amazing 10-Day Diving Tour!
3. Dog Sledding near Akureyri
Dog sledding in North Iceland is a thrilling adventure that allows you to experience North Iceland’s winter landscapes in a unique and exciting way. With a team of energetic and friendly huskies leading the way, you’ll glide through snow-covered trails, surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
- Visiting in the summer? Try this Dog Cart Tour in North Iceland
The dogs’ enthusiasm and the sound of their paws on the snow create a truly immersive and unforgettable experience. Expert guides provide instruction and ensure your safety throughout the journey. A typical tour lasts anywhere from 1-2 hours, taking you through the wild and remote areas of North Iceland.
4. Daladyrd Petting Zoo
Another major hit with children is the Daladýrð Petting Zoo, located just outside Akureyri. Visitors of all ages can interact with the animals and learn about their behaviours and habits from knowledgeable staff members.
- Read all about Icelandic Horses here
In addition to the petting zoo, Daladýrð also features a café that serves homemade cakes, coffee, and other refreshments, as well as a gift shop that sells a variety of souvenirs and local handicrafts. The petting zoo is open from May to September and is a great way to experience the charm and hospitality of rural Iceland.
5. Laufas Turf Houses
If nature and history appeal to your family, then the historic turf houses in Laufás are the perfect stop. This open-air museum is located just a short drive from Akureyri, in the scenic countryside. It features a restored turf farm that dates back to the 19th century, providing visitors with a glimpse into traditional Icelandic rural life.
Visitors to Laufás can explore the museum at their leisure, with knowledgeable guides available to provide insight into the history and culture of the area. The museum also offers traditional Icelandic refreshments, such as homemade bread and lamb soup, which are served in the café located in the main house.
5 Best Places to Eat and Drink, Including Local Specialities
Akureyri and its surroundings have a lot going for it in terms of unique food and cultural experiences. There are some amazing local eateries and restaurants here that offer delicious Icelandic cuisine with a twist. From fresh seafood caught right from the nearby waters to hearty lamb dishes and unique local delicacies, you’re in for a treat.
- What to eat in Iceland? Find out here
Exploring the culinary delights of Akureyri is a must-do for any food lover, and here are my 5 favourite places to eat and drink. Bon appétit!
1. Beer Spa
I recently discovered something really cool in Árskógssandur, about half an hour’s drive from Akureyri – a beer spa! Yes, you heard it right. It’s a place where you can relax and soak in a warm tub filled with beer. Not only is it incredibly relaxing, but the beer is infused with natural ingredients like hops, yeast, and barley, which are great for your skin. Do resist the urge to drink your bath water, though, and stick to the beer they serve on tap.
Afterwards, you can unwind in a cosy relaxation area and even enjoy a cold pint of beer. It’s a unique and rejuvenating experience that I highly recommend checking out if you’re in the area! Cheers!
2. Unique Fast Food
One of the more known dishes in Iceland is Akureyringur or “Akureyri Style”, a particular burger that stems from here. According to local legend, the residents of Akureyri were reluctant to take on board this new type of fast food when it first arrived in the 1950s. That is until someone suggested putting french fries between the buns. Later, they thought to add french fries to their hot dogs as well.
But they didn’t stop there. Akureyri is now famous around the country for its unique take on classic fast foods. Aside from an Akureyringur burger, deep-fried hot dogs are also quite common here.
And speaking of hot dogs, one of the most famous eateries in town is a humble hot dog stand, Pylsuvagninn. Icelanders have staked their claim on their version of a hot dog, but Akureyri has taken it to a new level. For adventurous eaters, you can try the Blue Cheese Dog, Tuna Dog, Hot Dog with Red Cabbage, and even an English Breakfast Dog.
3. Ice Cream
When in Iceland, you have to have at least one ice cream. Akureyri is home to the country’s most famous ice cream store, Brynjuís. It is also Iceland’s oldest ice cream shop, with its original soft serve ice cream style, called “the old fashioned”.
If you’re up for the challenge, try a bragðarefur (which translates to “flavour fox”). This is soft ice, and lots of it, mixed with your choice of candy or fruit.
4. Vogafjos Café & Farm
Vogafjós farm and café is a unique destination located a short drive from Akureyri. This cosy eatery has gained popularity for its warm and inviting atmosphere, attentive service, and delicious culinary offerings. It is situated on a working farm, where visitors can experience the daily life of farmers and their animals.
The café serves delicious local food, including homemade cheese, smoked trout, and lamb dishes. While enjoying your meal, you can enjoy the beautiful views of Lake Mývatn or the farm’s cows while they are milked. You can even go into the cowshed to pet the animals and try fresh milk.
5. Græni Hatturinn
If nightlife and concerts are more your thing, the famous Græni Hatturinn is a must. Translated as “The Green Hat,” it is a café, bar, and music venue that showcases the town’s thriving cultural scene. Located in the heart of Akureyri, the Græni Hatturinn is known for its cosy and eclectic interior, adorned with colourful decorations and artwork.
The venue hosts a variety of events, including live music performances, DJ sets, poetry readings, and art exhibitions. It is a hub for local artists and musicians and a welcoming space for residents and visitors to enjoy a lively and diverse range of entertainment. So whether you want to unwind with a cup of coffee during the day or enjoy a vibrant night out, the Græni Hatturinn offers a unique experience in Akureyri’s cultural landscape.
Tips for Getting Around and Making the Most of Your Visit
Getting around Akureyri is easy with its compact size and walkable streets. A word of warning: Akureyri is hilly. Like, silly hilly. So no one will blame you if you choose public transport, which is free in the whole town.
While exploring, keep your eyes peeled! This charming town has beautiful murals, sculptures, heart-shaped stoplights, and a cosy high street. While you’re at it, keep your nose peeled as well, if that is a thing. You might notice the smell of the industrial coffee roasters or the hangikjöt factory.
- Looking for more tips on travelling in Iceland? Check out this article
If you want to explore further out, renting a car is a great option. It also gives you the freedom to visit hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations that may not be easily accessible by public transportation. You can also venture further out and explore the Lake Mývatn area, Húsavík Town and the Diamond Circle.
Lastly, remember to embrace the unexpected and have a flexible mindset while exploring Akureyri. It’s often the unplanned moments and spontaneous adventures that make a trip truly memorable.
FAQs
Is it worth going to Akureyri? ›
If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, Akureyri has many galleries and museums that are worth a visit. Despite being significantly smaller than Reykjavik, Akureyri prides itself of its rich cultural life as the 'Capital of the North'.
Is North Iceland worth visiting? ›From the earliest Norse settlements to some of the most picturesque and unique attractions in the country, the North has much to offer travellers visiting Iceland this year. Its untouched nature, historical landmarks and vibrant culture all make it well worth the visit... once, or multiple times!
How much spending money do you need per day in Iceland? ›Activity Prices in Iceland
Luckily for the budget traveller, it is very possible to visit Iceland and not spend a dime on any activities! However, if you want to splurge on at least one of two of the major activities in Iceland then you should expect to spend around $15 per person per day over a one-week trip.
The Northern Lights – also called Aurora Borealis – are one of the most spectacular shows on earth and can frequently be seen in Akureyri and surroundings from September through April on clear nights.
Is there a hop on hop off bus in Akureyri Iceland? ›With a schedule that starts every whole hour from Hof, for the time large cruise ships are in town, you can enjoy a 45 minute long ride with 11 stops that you can hop on and hop off at any point.
Should I take money to Iceland? ›The quick answer to 'do I need cash in Iceland' is a resounding 'no. ' You'll be fine using your credit card or debit card while you travel throughout the country.
Is Akureyri walkable? ›River and Gardens
One of the best things about cities and towns in Iceland is that you never feel too far from nature. Even walking through the town of Akureyri, the second-biggest settlement in Iceland, you're still able to find plenty of peaceful green areas, rivers and gardens.
Thingvellir National Park
The UNESCO-listed Thingvellir (Þingvellir) is a remarkable national park and one of the most beautiful places in Iceland for its seemingly infinite, ravine-filled landscapes.
- The Westfjords. The Westfjords are a stunning and remote part of Iceland, often overlooked by tourists in favour of the more popular sights. ...
- Þingvellir National Park. ...
- Jökulsárlon Lagoon. ...
- Landmannalaugar Mountains. ...
- Blue Lagoon. ...
- Reynisfjara Beach. ...
- Dynjandi Waterfall. ...
- Mount Mælifell.
The Westfjords
“The Westfjords is the most beautiful region in Iceland. The mountains surrounding with their beauty, warm but also frightening with their rock slides and avalanches.”
Can you use US dollars in Iceland? ›
Currency: The currency in Iceland is the Icelandic króna (ISK). Many places (restaurants, bars, tourist attractions) will take US dollars, Canadian dollars, Euros, Norwegian, Swedish and Danish currencies. Payment: Icelanders usually pay for everything by credit or debit card.
Do you tip in Iceland? ›Tipping isn't mandatory or customary in Iceland, but it is always appreciated. The standard rate of tax on Icelandic products is 24%, with some products and services, including books, food and accommodation, taxed at a reduced rate of 11%.
How much is a cup of coffee in Iceland? ›A cup of latte or cappuccino goes for around 5 USD, tea at about 3 USD (usually with free hot water refills), and a regular black coffee goes for anything from 2.50 USD to 4 USD (depending on if refills are included).
How far is Akureyri from the Arctic Circle? ›The area around Akureyri has one of the warmest climates in Iceland, even though it is only 100 km (62 mi) from the Arctic Circle.
What month is best to see northern lights in Iceland? ›The best time to see the northern lights in Iceland is in winter. Northern lights tours run in Iceland throughout the winter season, from September to April. That's because this is when nights are dark and long, giving you the best conditions to see this incredible display.
What time of night do the northern lights appear in Iceland? ›Northern lights often appear during the darkest part of the night, so most sightings happen between 11 PM and 2 AM. You can spend the night stargazing, on the lookout for this otherworldly display.
Do you need cash for bus in Iceland? ›There are three ways to pay for the bus in Reykjavík: Cash, bus card, or on the KLAPP App. Children under the age of 6 and legally blind people don't have to pay to ride the bus. You can pay the bus fare in cash, each bus has a fare collecting box next to the driver.
How do you get around Akureyri? ›Getting around Akureyri
By bus – The Akureyri Citybus is free of charge and will take you anywhere you need to go in town. Just figure out the route you want to take and step on the bus! Each bus route starts and ends in the town centre. Information is available at www.straeto.is and the Strætó app.
What is this? From roadside restaurants to gas stations and souvenir shops, the majority of the country utilizes cash currency in Iceland. That being said, we still recommend bringing a debit card when traveling in Iceland just in case you do need to take out some Icelandic money!
How much is $1 US in Iceland? ›1 USD = 140.29 ISK May 25, 2023 15:19 UTC
Check the currency rates against all the world currencies here. The currency converter below is easy to use and the currency rates are updated frequently.
Should I use cash or card in Iceland? ›
Credit and debit cards are very common forms of payment for people who travel to Iceland. In fact, locals rarely use cash since most merchants accept credit and debit cards even for small purchases. Travellers cheques, though less common, are also accepted at banks and major hotels or tourist centres.
Is Akureyri expensive? ›You should plan to spend around kr19,559 ($141) per day on your vacation in Akureyri, which is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors. Past travelers have spent, on average, kr4,989 ($36) on meals for one day and kr2,829 ($20) on local transportation.
What part of Iceland is least visited? ›A good way to avoid the crowds in Iceland is to explore some of the areas in Iceland that don't see many tourists. The Westfjords of Iceland are the least-visited region in the whole country, with only a small number of tourists a year making the drive up to the epic fjords in the north west.
How much does it cost to go to the Akureyri Botanical Gardens? ›The Akureyri Botanical Gardens are free to enter, although only accessible in summer, from June 1st to September 31st. On weekdays, they are open from 08:00 to 22:00; on weekends, they open at 09:00. There are bathrooms on site.
What are 3 things Iceland is famous for? ›What is Iceland famous for? Iceland is most famous for its rugged landscapes and scenery. The Northern Lights, Blue Lagoon, volcanoes, glaciers, and waterfalls top the list of must-sees. Iceland is also famous for its history and being settled by the Vikings.
What is the most famous unknown place in Iceland? ›Kerlingarfjöll – The most famous unknown place in Iceland
Kerlingarfjöll is one of the most precious natural attractions in Iceland and is located in the central Highlands. It's part of an active volcanic system and is home to one of Iceland's most impressive geothermal areas.
It's Idaho
Idaho shares a surprising number of similarities to Iceland, but it's also totally different – in a good way! It's just so very Idaho, and if you don't know what that means yet you should go experience it for yourself.
Spend limited or no time in the most expensive destinations.
I found the most expensive destinations to be the capital city of Reykjavík, Lake Myvatn, the Golden Circle, and the South Coast. Places like Snaefellsnes and the rural north were much cheaper by comparison.
The best place to see the northern lights in Iceland is the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, which lies by the Vatnajokull glacier. You can drive to the lagoon along the Ring Road from Vik or find one of the black sand beaches of South Iceland to enjoy the view of the lights dancing across the sky.
Should I wear jeans in Iceland? ›Yes, you can wear jeans in Iceland. The summer and shoulder seasons are especially good times to travel in your most comfortable pair. If you plan to go on an adventurous excursion, we recommend wearing the appropriate, activewear clothing.
What do most people wear in Iceland? ›
A note on Icelandic fashion
They tend to dress smartly as people do in any cosmopolitan city, though with a stylish Nordic twist. If you aim to blend in, do as the locals do and swap your brightly coloured weather-proof jacket and hiking boots for a nice pair of jeans, a smart jacket and sneakers or other city shoes.
- Many Icelanders believe in elves. ...
- It is one of the oldest democracies in the world. ...
- The unique Icelandic language includes over 100 words for wind. ...
- Ice cream is the perfect first date. ...
- Iceland has 13 Santas (kind of) ...
- Icelanders love books. ...
- It's the safest country in the world. ...
- Want a refill?
The general motto is that you should leave only footprints, and take only photos and memories when travelling anywhere. This is standard travel etiquette in Iceland. When travelling in Iceland it's important that you pay attention to signage at all times.
Which region of Iceland is most beautiful? ›Kirkjufell (Church Mountain) is the most photographed mountain in Iceland and a natural icon on its own. In a way, it's considered among the most beautiful of Iceland's scenery. Located next to the small town of Grundarfjörður, it rises 463 meters above sea level in an unusual, long, conical shape.
How far is Akureyri from Arctic Circle? ›The area around Akureyri has one of the warmest climates in Iceland, even though it is only 100 km (62 mi) from the Arctic Circle.
What is the most popular transportation in Iceland? ›Transportation in Iceland. The most popular way to get around in Iceland is by car, there are no trains in Iceland so the other options are the buses, flights, taxi or private drivers. The main road in Iceland is called Hringvegurinn or the Ring Road and lies along the coast around the island, except for the Westfjords ...
Is there Uber in Akureyri? ›There is neither Lyft nor Uber, but we have taxis (call 588 5522 or have your lobby book one) and the local bus (Strætó). Strætó has buses in Reykjavík and Akureyri and even between towns! Strætó uses an app you can find on your app store.
Can you Uber in Iceland? ›No. There's no Uber in Iceland. You can get taxi rides in Reykjavík but you are not going to want to pay for a taxi anywhere outside of Reykjavík – and that includes going from Reykjavík to the airport.
How do you pay for a taxi in Iceland? ›Taxis accept all major credit cards, but you can also pay in cash if that is preferred. If you want to be on the safe side, it's worth confirming the payment method with your driver before starting your journey. Ensure that the taxi driver resets the taximeter at the beginning of your trip.
What is a typical breakfast in Iceland? ›A typical Icelandic breakfast can include thick oatmeal (hafragrautur), Skyr with jam, bread with butter, and cod liver oil.
What not to forget when traveling Iceland? ›
- Fleece jacket.
- Wool sweater.
- Waterproof jacket.
- Rain paints.
- Windproof gloves and hat.
- Swimsuit.
- Scarves.
- Thermal Base Layers.