Akureyri - Discovering Iceland

Travelling to Akureyri

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Akureyri, a pretty good destination in Iceland (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Akureyri and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Akureyri, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Iceland, here's everything to know about Akureyri for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Akureyri

Akureyri is a city located in the northern region of Iceland, known as the "Capital of the North." It has a population of around 19,000 people and is the second-largest urban area in the country after Reykjavik. Akureyri is situated at the head of the fjord Eyjafjörður and surrounded by mountains, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. It is also a hub for cultural activities, featuring museums, galleries, and a vibrant nightlife. Additionally, Akureyri is a great starting point for exploring the nearby natural attractions, such as the Lake Mývatn area, Goðafoss waterfall, and the stunning landscapes of Vatnajökull National Park.

What to visit in Akureyri

Sure, here are some top tourist attractions in Akureyri, Iceland: 1. Akureyrarkirkja: The iconic Akureyri church, located at the top of a hill in the city center, offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and fjord. It was designed by Guðjón Samúelsson, who also designed the famous Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavik.
2. Botanical Garden: The northernmost botanical garden in the world, showcasing over 2000 species of plants from around the world, including some rare and endangered varieties. It is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city and offers a nice place to relax and enjoy nature.
3. The Christmas House: A unique museum showcasing Iceland's Christmas traditions and folklore. It is open year-round and features a gift shop, where visitors can find festive souvenirs.
4. Hof Cultural Center: A modern cultural center housed in a historical building, featuring art exhibitions, concerts, theater performances, and other events. It also has a cinema and a restaurant/bar.
5. whale watching tours: From Akureyri harbor visitors can join whale watching tours, which depart daily during the summer months. The tours offer a chance to spot humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins, and other marine life in the fjord.
6. Mount Súlur: For adventure seekers, hiking Mount Súlur is a popular activity, offering stunning views of the surrounding area. The trailhead is located just a few kilometers from Akureyri and takes about 3-4 hours round trip.
7. The Icelandic Aviation Museum: Located just outside Akureyri, this museum is dedicated to Iceland's aviation history, showcasing vintage aircraft, aviation equipment, photographs, and other memorabilia.
Hope this information will help with planning your trip to Akureyri!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Iceland, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Akureyri.

When to go on holiday to Akureyri

The best time to visit Akureyri, Iceland is during the summer months between June and August. During this time the weather is the most pleasant and you can enjoy activities like whale watching and hiking. However, keep in mind that the peak season for tourism is also during this time and prices can be higher. If you prefer to experience the Northern Lights, the best time to visit Akureyri is during the winter months between December and March, but keep in mind that the weather can be quite cold with limited daylight hours.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Akureyri

To get to Akureyri, there are a few options: 1) By air: The quickest way to reach Akureyri is by flying from Reykjavík, Iceland's capital, to Akureyri. Domestic airlines such as Air Iceland Connect and Eagle Air operate daily flights from Reykjavík to Akureyri. The flight takes about an hour.
2) By car: You can rent a car and drive to Akureyri from Reykjavík. The drive takes about 5-6 hours depending on weather conditions and traffic.
3) By bus: Buses operated by Strætó, Sterna, and Reykjavík Excursions connect Reykjavík to Akureyri. The journey takes around 6-7 hours, and the bus makes several stops along the way.
I recommend checking the schedules and fares before planning your trip to Akureyri. It's also important to keep an eye on the weather forecast, especially if you plan to drive or take the bus.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Akureyri, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Akureyri

Here are some typical foods of Akureyri, Iceland: 1. Lamb: Icelandic lamb is popular throughout the country, and Akureyri is no exception. The lamb is raised on the island's pastures and is considered some of the best in the world.
2. Skyr: Skyr is a thick, creamy type of yogurt that is unique to Iceland. It is high in protein and low in fat, making it a healthy and delicious snack.
3. Fish: Being located near the coast, Akureyri is famous for fresh and delicious seafood. Whether it's cod, haddock, salmon, or arctic char, fish is a staple in Icelandic cuisine.
4. Flatkaka: Flatkaka is a traditional Icelandic bread that is thick, dense, and chewy. It is often served as a side dish with meals and is perfect for soaking up broth or gravy.
5. Brennivín: Brennivín is a clear, unsweetened schnapps made from potatoes and flavored with caraway seeds. It is a popular after-dinner drink in Akureyri and throughout Iceland.
6. Pylsur: Pylsur is Icelandic for hot dog, and it is a popular street food in Akureyri. Made with lamb and served with a variety of toppings, including fried onions, ketchup, and mustard, the hot dog is the ultimate Icelandic fast food.
You can find general info about typical foods in Iceland here.

Is Akureyri an expensive destination for tourists?

Akureyri, like most of Iceland, is generally considered an expensive destination for tourists. The cost of food, accommodation, and transportation can be higher than average, and you may need to budget accordingly. However, there are still ways to save money while enjoying your trip, such as by choosing budget-friendly accommodations, cooking your own meals instead of eating out, and taking advantage of free or low-cost activities like hiking and exploring the local museums and cultural sites. Additionally, visiting during the shoulder season (spring or fall) may help you find better prices on accommodations and flights.

Where to find accomodation in Akureyri

In Akureyri, there are many areas where you can find accommodation. However, the most popular areas are: 1. City Center: This is the heart of the city, and a great place to stay if you want to be close to shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
2. The Old Town: This area is located near the harbor and is home to many historic buildings and museums.
3. The Ski Resort: If you're planning on skiing or snowboarding during your trip, then staying at the ski resort at the base of Mount Hlíðarfjall is the perfect option.
4. Around Lake Mývatn: This area is about an hour's drive from Akureyri, but it's a stunning location to stay, surrounded by geothermal hot springs, volcanic craters, and breathtaking waterfalls.
Ultimately, it depends on your preferences and plans for your trip.
You can check hotel prices at Akureyri here:
Booking.com

Is Akureyri a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Akureyri is generally a safe place for tourists to visit. Crime rates are low in Iceland, and the city of Akureyri is considered a safe place. However, as with any travel destination, travelers should still exercise common sense and take necessary precautions such as keeping an eye on their belongings and not walking in isolated areas late at night. It is also important to be aware of weather conditions and potential natural hazards in the area.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Iceland here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Akureyri.

What type of travelers will enjoy Akureyri the most?

Akureyri is a great destination that offers something for everyone, from couples to families and friends. Couples will enjoy the romantic atmosphere and scenic surroundings, with opportunities for strolls through the town's charming streets and beautiful gardens. Young people looking for fun will appreciate the lively nightlife scene and various outdoor activities offered in the area, such as hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.
Families can also have a great time in Akureyri, with plenty of kid-friendly activities like swimming in the town's geothermal pools, visiting museums and galleries, and exploring the outdoors through whale watching and horse riding tours. So, it's safe to say that Akureyri can be a great fit for different types of travelers, regardless of their age or interests.

How to get around Akureyri

In Akureyri, the most common modes of transportation are buses, taxis, rental cars, and bicycles. The bus service, called SVA, runs throughout the city and nearby areas on a regular schedule. Taxis are also plentiful and can be found at designated taxi stands or hailed on the street. Rental cars are a popular choice for exploring the surrounding countryside, and there are several rental agencies located in the city. Bicycles may also be rented for exploring the city and nearby trails.

What to see around Akureyri

Sure, here are some places you might want to consider visiting on a day trip from Akureyri: 1. Goðafoss Waterfall 2. Lake Mývatn 3. Dimmuborgir Lava Fields 4. Dettifoss Waterfall 5. Húsavík town 6. Grímsey Island (you will need to take a ferry to get here) 7. Siglufjörður town 8. Hverir Geothermal Area Each of these places offers unique landscapes and attractions that are worth exploring, and all are located within two hours of driving distance from Akureyri.
For every travel information about Iceland you can click here.

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