Top 10 Things to Do in Akureyri

If you find yourself entering Akureyri, chances are you have embarked across rolling landscapes and a variety of terrain to get here. If so, the sight of civilization might well be a welcome one. And as it should be! While not as large or as developed as Reykjavík in the Southeast, Akureyri is still a charming stay with plenty to see and do. 

With a population of around 20,000, you might laugh at this being called a city! Visitors will note that it actually feels very rural, with none of the skyscrapers that you might expect from such a developed country. North Iceland is far more remote than the South, which is where most people spend their time when in Iceland. For this reason, setting off to see what the northern capital holds is most popular for those looking for adventure! 

Why Visit Akureyri?

This so-called “capital in the North” is renowned for being set in an area of stunning natural beauty, with some of the best things to do being wildlife experiences and spotting phenomena like the Northern Lights. However, if you plan to visit during the colder months, Akureyri is full of other sightseeing opportunities and chances to learn about ancient Icelandic culture. Plus, it makes a great base for day trips to beautiful nearby attractions, such as Lake Myvatn. 

How To Get to Akureyri?

As mentioned, Akureyri lies in the North of Iceland. Most people will visit the city on a journey around the country, starting their journey in Reykjavík. The drive with no detours or stops takes approximately 5 hours. We advise you to take this drive in stages to make the most of your time on the road.

The route is very simple from the capital: Simply leave Reykjavík via Route 1 heading north, through the Hvalfjörður Tunnel, Borgarnes, and Blonduos. You’ll eventually enter Akureyri from the north of the settlement.

When is the Best time to Visit Akureyri?

As with the rest of Iceland, there is no 1 correct answer for the best time to visit Akureyri. There are pros and cons to every season, with the summer months bringing light all day round and more opportunities for wildlife watching. However, the winter’s darker skies provide the opportunity for spotting the Northern Lights! 

One of the best recommendations is to visit during shoulder season, where you can find the best of both worlds. September is a great time to see Akureyri, with fall colors and the added excitement of the annual sheep roundup around the country.

Best Things to Do and See

Akureyri is a great balance between a city and a quiet escape. Let’s take a look at 10 of the top things to do in Iceland’s second city.

1. Go Whale-Watching

Akureyri may have missed out on the title of Iceland’s whale-watching capital, which is worn proudly by Husavik, tours from the northern city should not be underestimated. You’ll find a number of tours departing from Akureyri Harbor, running typically through the spring and summer months. Here is your chance to embark on a refreshing cruise to spot humpback whales, minke whales, and sometimes even the odd orca whale if you’re lucky! 

2. See Akureyri Church (Akureyrarkirkja)

Though second on this list, the city’s church is going to be one of the first things you notice. When you see it, you might think that the hexagonal basalt columns look a little familiar – for a couple of reasons! You might have seen them around the country due to ancient volcanic activity, or you might be thinking of Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavík. The same architect designed both churches, both striking monuments of their respective cities.

3. Akureyri Botanical Garden

Opened way back in 1912, the Botanical Gardens of Akureyri is home to more than 7,000 plants! It is known locally as Lystigarðurinn and is a popular place to spend time walking or having a coffee at LYST, particularly in the warmer months and on sunny days. While there is a section of the garden displaying Icelandic flowers, you’ll find a colorful array of flora here. Along with the greenery, the coffee shop in the center of the park often hosts events for live music and art, so it’s a great place to check out all year.

4. Icelandic Aviation Museum

Located in the city’s old airport, the Icelandic Aviation Museum makes for an interesting and charming visit. With several hangars showcasing a range of aircraft, there is plenty to learn about the history of flying in Iceland, including the most famous names and vehicles. The aircraft are very well arranged and the museum caters especially well to children, making it a great free day out for the whole family.

5. Go Skiing at Hlidarfjall

It’s a little-known fact that you can actually ski in Iceland! If you’re looking for an active adventure during your stay, this could be an ideal way to spend a few days. While the resorts in the South don’t see a huge amount of snow, the resorts near Akureyri are much more fortunate and can be open for more than half a year! Hlidarfjall is known as the best ski resort in the country, with great quality services and equipment that are perfect for skiers of all abilities.

6. Ascend Mount Sulur

Being surrounded by rugged mountainous areas, hiking and walking are popular pastimes for Akureyri locals and tourists alike. Mount Sulur, the “town mountain”, is located to the south-west of the city and is the site of a popular hike. The round trip, up and down, takes around 6 hours, perfect for an active day out of the city. The highest peak involved is around 1213 meters, providing beautiful views on clear days. Don’t worry about finding the trail, as it is well-marked from the parking lot.

7. See the Laufás Museum

The Laufás Turf House is another attraction you might spot on your way into the city. This 19th-century house offers a lovely glimpse into the first settlers to Iceland and how they might have lived. As well as the house itself, the Icelandic Folk Museum housed inside showcases local life through ancient artifacts and replica furniture. Learning a little about Iceland’s history is a great way to start your trip to Akureyri.

8. Take a Day Trip

This may seem like a trick final suggestion, but the surrounding area of Akureyri is what makes it so unique. Stunning natural attractions and unusual waterfalls are within easy reach, and these will be far more off-the-beaten-track than their southern counterparts. Here are just a few nearby locations that make great day trips from Akureyri:

• Goðafoss  – Goðafoss Waterfall is just a 35-minute drive away and is one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the country – also included alongside Akureyri on the Diamond Circle Route.
• Lake Mývatn – A little further afield, an hour away, Lake Mývatn offers an entirely unique volcanic landscape, as well as excellent bird-watching opportunities.
• Husavik – Also an hour away, Husavik is well-known for being a picture-perfect town and for its whale-watching! 

While Reykjavík is a beautiful city with much to explore, getting off the beaten track can be an excellent way to get to know a country! And with the North of Iceland being far less explored than the southern coast, you might even find some of these attractions are free of crowds when you visit. If you are looking to create your own itinerary to ensure you can fit all this in, browse our car rentals today.