Trip to Akureyri in North Iceland
A must-visit when traveling in northern Iceland is, of course, the regional capital, Akureyri—a peaceful and charming European town with a population of about 18,000. If you have one day in town, don't miss a walk through the historic town center: the impressive Akureyrarkirkja church stands atop a hill, offering views overlooking the northern fjord scenery. Adjacent to the church is a large botanical garden featuring most plant species native to Iceland alongside thousands of foreign varieties. In addition, you will find a wide variety of cafés, shops, museums, walking trails, swimming pools, a golf course, and more throughout the town.
Arriving by Cruise Ship
Warm Recommendation: Visit Iceland on a cruise ship; a detailed description of such a journey can be found in the article: Cruise in Iceland and Norway on the Sky Princess
♦ Recommended guided tours from Akureyri tailored for cruise passengers - port pick-up:
Recommended guided tours from Akureyri on GetYourGuide.com:
Recommended guided tours from Viator:
♦ A 5-6 hour tour also departs from Akureyri to Lake Mývatn and Goðafoss Waterfall:
Lake Myvatn Day Tour and Godafoss Waterfall for Cruise Ships from Akureyri Port
The tour departs from the port and is also suitable for cruise ship passengers.
Rafting
Another fun and challenging adventure you can experience in Iceland is river rafting. This sporting activity has grown increasingly popular across Iceland, and today several outfitters offer rafting in various parts of the country at different difficulty levels. The rafting site is located about an hour and a half west of Akureyri:
♦ Book recommended rafting in the Akureyri area via Viator:
Akureyri town center and Akureyrarkirkja church
Did you know? Akureyrarkirkja church was built in 1940, and its reliefs depict pivotal events throughout the history of Iceland.
Every year, during the final weekend of August, the town hosts an arts festival celebrating the end of summer. During the festival, the town comes alive with vibrant energy and is well worth a visit. On the city’s website, you will find a full schedule of daily events, including concerts, rock performances, photography exhibitions, artisan workshops, and more.
♥ Recommended Hotels in Akureyri:
Hotels
Hotel Kea
4-star hotel in the city center.
Icelandair Hotel Akureyri
3-star hotel close to the city center.
Hotel Nordurland
3-star hotel in the city center.
Hotel Edda Akureyri
Hotel located close to the city center. Bathrooms: some shared, some private.
Free parking.
Hotel Akureyri
Hotel adjacent to the city center. Free Wi-Fi and parking.
Holiday Apartments
Akureyri Apartments
Holiday apartments throughout the city. Includes full kitchen and free Wi-Fi.
Hostels and Guesthouses:
Hostel Akureyri
Located a 10-minute walk from the city center, free Wi-Fi,
shared kitchen and laundry room, bathrooms: some private and some shared.
Guesthouse Akureyri
Located in the city center. Shared kitchen.
Bathrooms: some shared, some private. Free Wi-Fi in select rooms.
Skjaldarvik Guest House
Located 5 km from town. Free Wi-Fi. Shared bathrooms.