Ultimate Guide to Visiting Akureyri

26-04-2023

All About Akureyri, Iceland

Akureyri is actually the fifth-largest city in Iceland and the largest city outside of Southwestern Iceland. It is where the majority of the population is based. As an important fishing area and port, Akureyri earned the nickname ‘the Capital of North Iceland’.

 

Weather in Akureyri

Akureyri in Summer

Average daily temperatures during summer reach around 11°C (53°F). The summer months, particularly from June to August, see the most hours of sunshine and the least rain. Pretty much perfect for some fun outdoor activities!

 

 

Akureyri To-Do List

Whale Watching in Akureyri

 

Akureyri Museums

• Akureyri Museum. It has two permanent exhibitions that showcase the history of the city and Eyjafjördur Fjord, one of Iceland's longest fjords. It's a great place to learn more about the area. There’s also a gorgeous garden museum you can visit nearby.
• The Old Farmhouse Laufas Turf Houses. These beautiful grass-roofed houses and 19th century church offer a glimpse into what early Icelandic life was like. Set among lush greenery, these turf houses make an amazing photography location.
• Iceland Aviation Museum. Discover interesting facts about aviation history in Iceland from 1919 to the present day at this hangar in Akureyri airport. You can even step on board several of the aircrafts to experience them for yourself!
• Nonni’s House. Built around 1850, this small wooden house is one of the oldest houses in Iceland. You can walk around this quaint Icelandic dwelling to learn about what life was like in Akureyri back in this time period.
• The Industry Museum. It displays machinery and products from the town's former thriving industries, such as fish storage barrels, toys, and shoes. It showcases how the town was self-sufficient for food, clothing, and construction during the 1960s and 70s.
• Akureyri Art Museum. Founded in 1993, Akureyri Art Museum is home to a diverse range of art, from both Icelandic and international artists. Here, you can view a variety of interesting illustrations, photographs, installations and performance art pieces.

Must-See Places and Things in Akureyri

• Kjarnaskogur Forest. Located just outside the city bounds, Kjarnaskogur is one of the largest forests in Iceland. Believe it or not, there are more than 1.5 million trees in Kjarnaskogur Forest! In Kjarnaskogur, you’ll find trails for hiking and biking, outdoor sports areas. Mainly for volleyball and gym exercise activities. There are also barbecue areas and even three playgrounds to keep the kids busy.
• Arctic Botanical Gardens. One of the world’s most northerly botanical gardens! The Arctic Botanical Gardens in Akureyri is only 50 kilometers south of the Arctic Circle. Here, you can see the amazing trees and shrubs that thrive in the harsh Icelandic climate.
• Akureyri Church. The Church of Akureyri is a striking Lutheran church located in the city center. It was completed in 1940 and designed by architect Gudjon Samuelsson. It features an organ with over 3000 pipes and a central stained-glass window from England, making it one of the city's most distinctive landmarks.
• Mount Sulur. This two-peaked mountain located to the southwest of Akureyri is the perfect place to go for a hike. Towering over 1200 meters above the city, these mountain peaks are composed of volcanic rock called rhyolite. It offers amazing panoramic views over the city and fjord.
• Akureyri Port. Consider adding a visit to Akureyri Port to your itinerary in Akureyri. There you can admire a range of interesting boats and join one of the many shore excursions that depart from there.
• Northern Lights. If you’re visiting Akureyri in winter, you’ll have a great chance of spotting the dazzling light show that is the Northern Lights. Akureyri is a brilliant place to spot the Northern Lights due to its location in Northern Iceland. Heading a little out of the city away from the light pollution can improve your chances of viewing this amazing natural spectacle.
• Midnight Sun. A beautiful summer phenomenon you can enjoy in Akureyri is the Midnight Sun. It is when the sun doesn’t set until around midnight, due to the city’s northerly location and extra long daylight hours.

Food in Akureyri

• Bakaríid vid Brúna. Fancy an Icelandic cake or pastry? This traditional bakery serves a whole range of sweet treats, plus soups and sandwiches, perfect for a light lunch.
• Bautinn Restaurant. Located in the center of Akureyri in one of the city’s oldest buildings, which was built in 1902. Bautinn serves delicious meals, from meat dishes to vegan options.
• Blackbox Pizza. Craving a pizza? We recommend checking out the tasty sourdough pizzas on offer at Blackbox Pizza. You can choose from a variety of toppings, plus gluten-free and keto options.
• Eyja Wine Bar & Bistro. At Eyja, you can sample a wide range of delicious wines and cocktails, along with small dishes, snacks and sweets.
• Greifinn Restaurant. You’ll find something for everyone at this family-friendly restaurant that serves everything from tex-mex to steaks and pasta.
• Holtsel. Looking for some locally made ice cream? Holtsel is the place for you! Located on a dairy farm in the Icelandic countryside, you can enjoy delicious homemade ice cream and visit the farm animals at Holtsel.
• Kaffi Ilmur. Breakfast, brunch buffets and delicious lunches abound at Kaffi Ilmur. Located in one of Akureyri’s oldest houses, this café is most renowned for its traditional Icelandic cakes. They are baked onsite in the upstairs bakery.
• Krian. Enjoy the catch of the day with a stunning view of the ocean at this harbor side restaurant.
• Lemon. For a healthy bite to eat, we recommend checking out Lemon, where you can enjoy a selection of sandwiches, fresh juices and fruit smoothies.
• Pylsuvagninn Hot Dog Stand. Try an Akureyri food classic at this traditional hot dog stand, serving high-quality local food. We recommend sampling the Akureyri-style hot dog with red cabbage, or the Icelandic sheep meat soup if it’s a chilly day!
• Strikid. This high-end restaurant is located on the fifth floor in front of the fjord. It offers an amazing view of the water and surrounding mountains and serves a variety of top-quality food.
• Verbudin – Eat dinner on Hrisey Island, located in the Eyjafjördur Fjor. At this family-run restaurant, you'll get a range of Icelandic and international cuisine. All you need to do is take the ferry to the island to eat dinner in style!

Akureyri Nightlife

• Centrum Kitchen and Bar – Fancy experiencing a delicious dinner and fancy drinks at a fantastic location in downtown Akureyri? Centrum Kitchen and Bar is where you can do just that!
• Gotubarin – This piano bar located in the heart of Akureyri serves local beers and top-end liquors. The interior is designed from old preserved items that tell the story of Akureyi’s history through the years.
• Græni Hatturinn / The Green Hat – In the mood for some live music? Check out the listings at The Green Hat: one of the most popular concert venues in Iceland. Offering a wide selection of music to suit all tastes, many Icelandic and international artists have played here over the years.
• Olstofa Akureyrar – With a wide selection of local and imported craft beers from all over the world. This friendly bar also shows football and sports on the upper floor.
• R5 Bar – Enjoy a selection of local Icelandic beers at the cozy R5 Bar, located near Akureyri Town Hall Square. With craft beers, appetizers and lively music, R5 Bar promises a good night out.

Where to Stay in Akureyri

• Akureyri Backpackers – This family-run hostel in the center of Akureyri is perfect for an affordable place to stay in the city that’s still close to all the action. There’s also a bar and restaurant on site, providing a convenient place to stop and enjoy some drinks and snacks whenever you like.
• Hotel Edda – Another city center hotel, Hotel Edda offers single, double and triple guest rooms with wash basins in some rooms. You also have an on-site restaurant and bar at your disposal. Located next to the Botanical Gardens, you can reach all the main Akureyri attractions on foot from this hotel.
• Hotel Kea – This 4-star hotel boasts an amazing location, with views of Akureyri Church right next door. Whether you want a single room or a luxury suite, you can find a room to suit you here, as well as a bistro, bar and gym.
• Hotel Natur – Get up close to nature at Hotel Natur, which is located around 15 minutes from Akureyri by car. Here, you’ll find ping pong tables, a sauna and a hot tub for guests.
• Hrimland Cottages – Enjoy a spectacular view over the city and fjord at the beautiful, mountainside Hrimland Cottages, located between the center of Akureyri and a ski resort. These luxury cottages are equipped with all the necessary modern conveniences, plus a private hot tub.
• Lava Apartments – Find a range of rooms and apartments in the heart of Akureyri at the newly renovated Lava Apartments.
• Pearl of the North Apartments – These fancy apartments are perfect for a luxurious stay close to both the water and the center of Akureyri city.

Day or Weekend Trips From Akureyri

Akureyri to Husavik Day Trip

This beautiful town on the north coast of Iceland is full of picturesque colorful houses and is famous for its wooden church, dating back to 1907.

 

Godafoss Waterfall and Lake Myvatn Day Trip From Akureyri

Grimsey Island From Akureyri

Reykjavík Weekend Trip From Akureyri

In Reykjavík, you can do everything from exploring fascinating museums and galleries, to enjoying a sample of traditional Icelandic cuisine down by the beautiful harbor. You can also head to explore the quaint boutiques and cafés along the famous Laugavegur shopping street.

 

Top Tips for Your Akureyri Vacation

• Book in advance – Iceland is becoming an increasingly popular location for tourists, meaning places often book up in advance. If you want to sample a particular restaurant or attraction we’ve mentioned in this complete Akureyri guide, we recommend booking beforehand. Accommodation and rental vehicles are also best reserved ahead of time. We can help you out with our range of affordable cars to rent in Iceland.
• Plan your trips beforehand – Especially important if you plan to visit Akureyri in winter, you’ll need to plan out your trips to coincide with the shorter daylight hours. It’s a good idea to make a rough itinerary, so you know you’ll have time to fit in all your must-do activities. You can always move these around slightly from day to day, depending on how you feel and how the weather is.

• Check road and weather conditions before any day trips – We do recommend checking the daily weather and road conditions in Iceland before setting out on any day trips from Akureyri, as there can be occasional road closures across the country due to harsh weather. This is particularly true in the winter season, so it’s best to know your route is clear before you take to the roads.

• Pack for every season – As Icelandic weather is famously unpredictable, it’s wise to pack a range of clothes for every season! You’ll definitely need a jacket and jumpers for Akureyri and you may wish to bring some t-shirts if you’re visiting in summer. Extra layers are always helpful, and a waterproof coat and shoes will serve you well.
• Practice your Icelandic! – Why not use your trip to Akureyri as an opportunity to learn and practice a few basic Icelandic phrases? While English is widely spoken across Iceland, you’ll tend to hear more Icelandic in smaller cities and villages outside of the capital, Reykjavík, including Akureyri.

Ready, Set, Go – Akureyri is Calling!