Many visitors choose Isafjordur as a base for Westfjords tours, which range from guided hikes and scenic drives to boat trips into untouched nature reserves. These outings showcase dramatic cliffs, small fishing villages, and thriving seabird colonies.
Cruise passengers can take advantage of Isafjordur shore excursions that fit neatly into a single day, such as a Westfjords sightseeing tour from Isafjordur Port. Even in just a few hours, these trips offer an impressive taste of the region’s landscapes and local heritage.
If you plan to explore other parts of the country, Iceland vacation packages can make it simple to include the Westfjords in your journey. These packages often combine transport, accommodation, and activities in one booking, making them ideal for first-time visitors who prefer a ready-made itinerary.
Key Takeaways for Things To Do in Isafjordur
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Isafjordur offers a mix of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences, all within easy reach of town.
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Highlights include exploring the old town, visiting the Westfjords Heritage Museum, and enjoying fresh seafood at local restaurants.
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Outdoor activities range from kayaking in the fjords and hiking to Bolafjall Viewpoint to day trips for whale watching, puffin spotting, and exploring Hornstrandir Nature Reserve.
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Seasonal experiences like local festivals and trips to Vigur Island add unique ways to connect with the area’s culture and wildlife.
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Many activities are seasonal, so check schedules and book popular tours well in advance.
10. Wander Through Isafjordur Old Town and Dine at Tjoruhusid
Explore the historic old town of Isafjordur, home to some of the oldest and best-preserved wooden buildings in the Westfjords. Start your walk by the harbor in Nedstikaupstadur, where colorful houses and restored warehouses line the streets.
Small details like carved doorframes, wooden frames, and old signage quietly tell the town’s story. The route is compact and easy to cover in about an hour, with spots to stop for photos or browse small shops. A walking tour of Isafjordur adds even more insight, guiding you through local history, architecture, and fjord views.
If you’re visiting in summer, finish your walk at Tjoruhusid, a renowned seafood restaurant set in one of the old harbor houses. Open seasonally from May to September, it serves freshly caught fish in a buffet-style feast. Prices are on the higher side, but many travelers consider dining here a highlight of their trip. Reservations are highly recommended.
9. Visit the Westfjords Heritage Museum in Isafjordur
Step inside one of the top cultural attractions in Isafjordur, the Westfjords Heritage Museum. Located in a restored 18th-century warehouse by the harbor, this maritime museum showcases fishing boats, tools, photographs, and even a large accordion collection that brings the region’s seafaring history to life.
Most visitors spend one to two hours here, making it a rich cultural stop that fits easily into a day in town. It is usually open from mid-May to the end of August, from 10 AM to 5 PM, with shorter hours of 11 AM to 3 PM in early September.
The fee is typically around ISK 1600 (about 12 USD) for adults and ISK 1200 (about 9 USD) for seniors. Checking ahead for special demonstrations or temporary exhibits can make your visit even more memorable.
- Discover the Best Museums in Iceland and the Weirdest Museums in Iceland
8. Experience Local Festivals and Events in Isafjordur
Attending a festival is one of the best ways to experience Isafjordur’s culture firsthand. The town’s two most celebrated events draw visitors from across Iceland and abroad, making them worth planning a trip around if your dates align.
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Aldrei For Eg Sudur (March or April): A free music festival held over Easter weekend with Icelandic and international performers that fills venues across town. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with locals and travelers enjoying concerts late into the night.
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Fossavatn Ski Marathon (late April or early May): One of Iceland’s oldest cross-country ski races, attracting competitors and spectators for a festive celebration of winter sport in the Westfjords.
If your visit overlaps, smaller events like the Vid Djupid Music Festival in June or the Running Festival (Hlaupahatid) in July offer a more niche but rewarding cultural experience. Most festivals take place in or near the town center, making them easy to attend on foot. Isafjordur accommodations fill quickly during these times, so booking early is essential.
- Learn more about the Top Festivals in Iceland and the Best Annual Events in Iceland
7. Visit the Arctic Fox Centre in Sudavik
Just about 30 minutes from Isafjordur, the Arctic Fox Centre in Sudavik offers an in-depth look at Iceland’s only native land mammal. Exhibits explore fox biology, behavior, and folklore while highlighting ongoing research and conservation projects. Visitors of all ages will also enjoy seeing the occasional rescued or orphaned fox on site.
The center is open from early May to late September, when the nearby roads are most reliably clear. Admission is usually around ISK 1,800 (about 13 USD) for adults, with lower rates for children and seniors.
For those hoping to encounter Arctic foxes in the wild, guided tours to Hornstrandir Nature Reserve include a scenic boat crossing and hikes led by local experts. One popular option is the Arctic fox and midnight sun tour, which offers an excellent chance to spot these elusive animals in their natural habitat.
- Learn about the Animals in Iceland and discover the Best Wildlife Tours in Iceland
6. Hike or Drive to Bolafjall Viewpoint
Bolafjall Viewpoint offers spectacular panoramas of the Westfjords, with sweeping fjords, rugged cliffs, and on clear days, views reaching across to Hornstrandir. At the top, a platform lets you step right over the edge for an unforgettable vantage point.
From Isafjordur, it’s about a 20-minute drive to Bolungarvik, where the mountain road to Bolafjall begins. In summer (typically mid-June through August), the road is open all the way to the summit, making the skywalk easily accessible by car.
If you’d rather not drive yourself, a guided tour to Bolafjall Viewpoint from Isafjordur provides convenient transport to the platform. It also includes a visit to the historic Gilsnama lignite Mine, where you’ll learn about the area’s mining past.
There is no entry fee to the viewpoint, but warm, windproof layers are essential because conditions at the top can be harsh even on sunny days. Visiting is generally possible only in summer, as snow closes the road the rest of the year.
- See also the Most Stunning Viewpoints in Iceland
- Learn more about Hiking in Iceland and discover the Best Hiking Tours in Iceland
5. Take Sea Kayaking Tours in Isafjordur’s Fjords
Sea kayaking in Isafjordur’s fjords lets you see the Westfjords from a whole new angle, with colorful houses, dramatic cliffs, and surrounding mountains rising straight from the water. Along the way, you might spot seabirds, seals, or even porpoises.
A guided kayaking tour from Isafjordur is typically available in summer and usually lasts two to three hours, making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing. They’re beginner-friendly, with experienced guides providing safety instruction, paddling tips, and all necessary gear.
- Learn about Kayaking in Iceland and discover the Best Kayaking Tours in Iceland
4. Go Whale Watching in Isafjordur
A whale watching tour from Isafjordur’s harbor is one of the most popular ways to experience the marine life of the Westfjords. The best months for sightings are June to August, when humpback and minke whales are most active in the fjord. You might also see white-beaked dolphins, seals, and a variety of seabirds along the way.
Guided whale watching tours usually last two to three hours, making them easy to combine with other activities on the same day. Expert guides share insights on the wildlife and the fjord’s ecosystem while you enjoy the views from the boat.
- See also the Best Guide to Whale Watching in Iceland
3. Take a Day Trip to Dynjandi Waterfall From Isafjordur
Dynjandi is the largest and most famous waterfall in the Westfjords, with seven tiers of water cascading a total of 328 feet (100 meters) down a mountainside. Its distinctive, fan-shaped top tier makes it one of the most photogenic waterfalls in Iceland.
From Isafjordur, you can visit on a half-day drive or join a guided day tour to Dynjandi Waterfall in summer, when the mountain roads are open. The trip offers stunning coastal and mountain views along the way.
At the site, a short but steep uphill path leads to the main falls, with smaller waterfalls along the trail. Dynjandi is free to visit, but sturdy shoes are recommended, as the path can be uneven.
- Learn about the Waterfalls in Iceland and discover the Best Waterfall Tours in Iceland
- See also the Waterfalls You Can Walk Behind in Iceland
2. Visit Vigur Island for Puffins and History
Vigur Island is a peaceful retreat in Isafjardardjup Fjord, best known for its thriving seabird colonies. In summer, boat tours from Isafjordur bring you to see puffins, Arctic terns, eider ducks, and guillemots nesting in a pristine natural setting.
The island is one of the best places in the Westfjords for close-up puffin viewing without crowds. A guided puffin and seabird tour in Vigur Island includes an easy walk with plenty of stops for photos and wildlife observation. Tours usually last three to four hours, making it a relaxed and memorable half-day trip from town.
While wildlife is the main draw, Vigur also offers a glimpse of local heritage, including Iceland’s oldest seaworthy boat, the 200-year-old eight-oar Blodfna, and the country’s only windmill. These landmarks highlight the island’s role in traditional fishing and eiderdown farming, where soft down from eider ducks is gathered for high-quality bedding.
- Learn about the Birds in Iceland and discover Birdwatching Tours in Iceland
- See also Where To See Puffins in Iceland
1. Explore Hornstrandir Nature Reserve and See Arctic Foxes
Hornstrandir is the most remote and untouched part of the Westfjords, known for its dramatic cliffs, sweeping fjords, and thriving Arctic fox population. This protected wilderness is accessible only by boat from Isafjordur in summer, which adds to its untouched charm.
One way to experience Hornstrandir is to take a boat transfer from Isafjordur to Hesteyri. This is a former fishing village inside the reserve, with hiking trails and abandoned buildings that tell the story of life in this isolated area.
If seeing Arctic foxes is your main goal, you can join a fox watching tour in Hornstrandir. These guided trips give you the best chance to observe the animals in their natural habitat.
Planning Your Isafjordur Trip
If you are visiting Isafjordur for the first time, knowing a few basics will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Below you’ll find practical tips on how to get here, where to stay, and where to eat.
How To Get To Isafjordur
Isafjordur is the largest town in the Westfjords and is easier to reach than it might seem. Here are the main ways to get there:
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By air: Daily flights run about 40 minutes from Reykjavik Domestic Airport to Isafjordur Airport. From the airport, it’s a five-minute taxi or shuttle ride to the center.
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By car: You can look for car rental options and drive from Reykjavik, which takes six to seven hours in summer. The route is scenic but can include steep and gravel sections, so check road and weather conditions before leaving.
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By cruise: Cruise ships visit between May and September. The pier is right by the center, making it easy to explore on foot.
Where To Stay in Isafjordur
Isafjordur offers a small but varied selection of places to stay, from hotels in the heart of town to guesthouses with a homely feel. All of these options are conveniently positioned for exploring the town and nearby attractions.
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Hotel Isafjordur Torg: A stylish mid-range hotel in the center of town. Rooms have private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and breakfast is available. Its location makes it easy to walk to the harbor, museums, and restaurants.
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Gamla Isafjordur Guesthouse: A charming, affordable guesthouse by the harbor. Many rooms have fjord views, and shared kitchens let you prepare your own meals.
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Managisting Guesthouse: A budget-friendly option in the town center with simple, clean rooms and easy access to tours, shops, and cafes.
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Comfortable Bungalow: An apartment-style stay just minutes from the center, offering modern facilities, privacy, and scenic surroundings.
Where To Eat in Isafjordur
Aside from Tjoruhusid, the famous seasonal seafood restaurant, Isafjordur has a variety of cafes, casual restaurants, and bars that give visitors plenty of choices for meals and drinks. Here are some of the top options:
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Heimabyggd: A cozy cafe known for its locally roasted coffee, fresh pastries, and light lunches like soup with homemade bread. Perfect for breakfast or a mid-day break.
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Husid: A relaxed restaurant serving hearty burgers, pizzas, and lamb dishes. A good choice for a casual dinner after a day outdoors.
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Bubbly: A cheerful cafe and wine bar serving cakes, coffee, and light snacks alongside a good selection of sparkling wines.
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Jotunn: A modern burger and street food spot, popular for its generous portions and casual vibe.
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Dokkan Brugghus: The first microbrewery in the Westfjords, offering a range of craft beers brewed on-site. You can pair drinks with light bar snacks and enjoy views of the harbor.
FAQs About the Best Things To Do in Isafjordur
This section answers the most common questions regarding the best things to do in Isafjordur so you can make the most of your visit. Here’s everything you need to know before you go.
What is the best time to visit Isafjordur?
The best time to visit Isafjordur is in summer (June to August), when the weather is mild, roads are open, and most tours operate daily. Activities like hiking, kayaking, and boat trips to Hornstrandir Nature Reserve are available. Winter is quieter and offers the chance to see the northern lights, but many attractions close for the season.
Can you visit Hornstrandir in winter?
No, Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is only accessible in summer, usually from late June to mid-August, when boats operate from Isafjordur. In winter, heavy snow and a lack of transport make it unreachable.
How many days should I spend in Isafjordur?
Two to four days are recommended to enjoy the main sights, try local activities, and explore nearby areas like Sudavik, Bolungarvik, and Vigur Island without rushing.
Are there puffins in Isafjordur year-round?
No, puffins are only here in summer, typically from late May to mid-August, when they come ashore to nest.
Do I need to book tours in advance in Isafjordur?
Yes. In summer, popular tours like puffin watching, kayaking, and wildlife viewing can sell out weeks ahead, so book early to secure your spot.
Is parking free in Isafjordur?
Yes, parking is free throughout the town, including near the harbor and most attractions.
Are gas stations easy to find in the Westfjords?
Gas stations are available in Isafjordur, but they become limited in remote areas. It’s best to fill up your fuel tank before leaving town, especially if you’re driving longer routes or visiting smaller villages.
Can I use credit cards in Isafjordur?
Yes, credit and debit cards are accepted everywhere, even for small purchases like coffee or bus fares. You rarely need cash.
Do people in Isafjordur speak English?
Yes, English is widely spoken, making it easy for visitors to communicate. Learning a few Icelandic greetings is appreciated but optional.
What should I pack for Isafjordur?
The weather can change quickly. Pack warm layers, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy walking shoes, even in summer. In winter, bring thermal clothing and traction cleats for icy streets.
How do I check road and weather conditions in Isafjordur?
You can use umferdin.is for road updates and vedur.is for weather forecasts. Check in the morning and again before returning.
Organize Your Trip With the Best Things To Do in Isafjordur
Hiking to dramatic viewpoints, exploring the old town, kayaking in the fjords, and spotting wildlife in remote nature reserves are just some of the things to do in Isafjordur. Each activity offers a different way to experience the town and its surroundings.
Plan your tours early, pack for changing conditions, and give yourself time to enjoy the slower pace of life here. With its welcoming community, striking landscapes, and rich history, Isafjordur leaves a lasting impression on many travelers.
Which of these things to do in Isafjordur would you try first? Share your answer in the comments.
