Whether you're staying in Akureyri, stopping by on self-drive tours through Iceland, or taking a break between Akureyri activities and tours, the town offers plenty of reasons to slow down. And that includes its laid-back cafe scene.
You'd think Iceland's "Capital of the North" would be all glaciers and fjords, but Akureyri has a surprisingly rich coffee scene. This small town takes its brews seriously, with cozy cafes, garden hideouts, and hip little spots, perfect for a relaxing break.
Ready to find your new favorite cup in the north? Keep reading to skip the tourist traps and learn about the best cafes and coffee shops in Akureyri.
- Discover the Top Places To Visit in North Iceland
- See also: Top 6 Best Restaurants in Akureyri
7. Sykurverk Cafe
Bright pink, candy-sweet, and impossible to ignore, Sykurverk is one of the most unique cafes in Akureyri. You'll find it just a short stroll from the Akureyri Art Museum and Hof Cultural Center, and it stands out with its bold pink walls and cheerful energy.
Inside, the space is full of light and color. Candy jars line the counter, the walls are bright, and there's a touch of fun in every corner. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, and it's especially popular with families and anyone who loves a colorful setting with their coffee.
The sweet scent of baked goods greets you at the door, and the colorful display of desserts is hard to resist. Sykurverk Cafe has an irresistible lineup of sweet treats like macarons, cakes, and cupcakes. If you are in the mood for something less sweet, you can find savory bites like cheese and ham crepe.
Photo from Sykurverk Cafe
The portions are light, perfect for a quick bite between sightseeing stops. You can enjoy freshly brewed coffee, sugary cocktails, or a quirky milkshake to go with it, and enjoy your order in a space that feels both relaxed and a little magical.
There's also a small play area for kids, making it one of the most family-friendly cafes in Akureyri. When the sun's out, the outdoor patio is a cozy spot to sit, with blankets to keep you warm. There's even an on-site candy shop, so you can enjoy sweets when you leave.
If you're looking for something cheerful, different, and completely unforgettable, Sykurverk Cafe in Akureyri is where you go.
Address: Strandgata 3, 600 Akureyri, Iceland
Opening Hours: 11:30 AM - 8:00 PM
Google review score: 4.6 out of 5 stars
6. Cafe Berlin
Photo from Cafe Berlin
If your perfect morning involves waffles, bold coffee, and cozy vibes, head straight to Cafe Berlin. Just a few steps from the charming Hearts of Akureyri traffic lights and near Akureyrakirkja, this cafe is as full of character as the city itself.
Tucked between boutiques and street art, it blends German-inspired classics with Icelandic warmth that serves breakfast goodness packed into a small, friendly space. Whether you're an early riser, a road-tripper fueling up, or just someone chasing the best cafe and coffee shops in Akureyri, Cafe Berlin is a must-visit.
Since its opening, this beloved cafe in Akureyri has been quietly winning over locals and travelers with its top-tier brunch menu. From bacon-and-egg plates to smoked salmon with avocado, everything is made with care.
Photo from Cafe Berlin
The star of the show? Their legendary crisp-edged waffles are piled high with cream, fresh fruit, and caramel sauce. If you skip them, you're doing it wrong.
The portions are generous, the ingredients are fresh, and the prices are affordable. Regulars rave about the perfectly cooked eggs that accompany many dishes.
Cafe Berlin’s space is intimate and relaxed, making it great for a casual breakfast or lunch. It does fill up fast during peak brunch hours, so aim for early or off-peak visits if you want it quieter. Whether you're fueling up before a day of exploring or easing into the morning with a latte, it's one of Akureyri's best cafes and coffee shops.
Address: Skipagata 4, 600, Akureyri, Iceland
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Google review score: 4.4 out of 5 stars
5. LYST in Pennin Eymundsson Bookstore
Photo from LYST in Pennin Eymundsson Bookstore
If you’re looking for a quiet spot to enjoy coffee in the heart of Akureyri, head inside Penninn Eymundsson bookstore on Hafnarstraeti. Right by the Akureykirja, the town's iconic landmark, this spot is the best place to unwind with a latte in hand.
The space is bright and comfortable, with tables set near the large front windows and bookshelves all around. It’s a convenient place to pause while exploring the main street, whether you're in the mood for coffee, a light snack, or just a peaceful break from sightseeing.
Previously known as Penninn Cafe, the space has been taken over by Kaffi LYST as of May 2025. Now managed by the team behind the beloved LYST Cafe in the Akureyri Botanical Garden, it brings the same attention to detail and quality that made the original a local favorite.
Photo from LYST in Pennin Eymundsson Bookstore
Expect expertly brewed coffee, fresh pastries, and simple yet flavorful dishes that showcase the best of local ingredients.
LYST in Penninn Eumundsson is the perfect spot for reading solo in a sunlit corner, meeting up with a friend, or spending time between nearby shops and attractions. The combination of calm surroundings and quality offerings makes this one of the most dependable cafes in the town center.
Address: Hafnarstræti 91, 600 Akureyri, Iceland
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Monday to Friday), 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Saturday and Sunday)
Google review score: 4.6 out of 5 stars
4. Ketilkaffi
Photo from Ketilkaffi
Hidden inside the Akureyri Art Museum, Ketilkaffi might be the coziest surprise in town. It's a calm, creative hideout serving specialty coffee. With SCA-certified baristas behind the bar, every espresso shot and foamed milk swirl is crafted with care, making this one of the top coffee shops in Akureyri.
The space strikes a perfect balance between calm and contemporary. Warm terracotta walls, clean Nordic lines, and art installations around the space create a relaxed and peaceful ambiance. It's one of the best coffee shops in Akureyri for solo coffee breaks, quiet breakfast with a book, or working for digital nomads on the move.
Photo from Ketilkaffi
Alongside expertly brewed coffee, you’ll find organic soups, homemade cakes, fresh sourdough, and vegan meals made with seasonal ingredients. Not a coffee drinker? Ketilkaffi also stocks a selection of handpicked Southern European wines.
One of its best features? The cafe opens at 7:30 in the morning daily (a rare find in Iceland), so you can get your caffeine fix early. Whether you're fueling up before a road trip or easing into your morning, you’ll find a seat by the window, a quiet vibe, and a view that pairs perfectly with a warm cup.
Come Thursday through Saturday evenings, Ketilkaffi swaps espresso shots for margaritas and turns into a low-key Mexican taqueria. You'll find authentic tacos, cold drinks, and a vibe, proving this cafe knows how to keep things interesting.
Address: Kaupvangsstraeti, 600 Akureyri, Iceland
Opening Hours: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Google review score: 4.8 out of 5 stars
3. Bláa Kannan Cafe
While strolling down Akureyri’s charming main street, it’s hard not to stop and stare at Bláa Kannan. Its deep blue exterior and colorful red roof immediately catch the eye as it sits proudly on Hafnarstraeti, the town's bustling main street.
Bláa Kannan is a perfect pitstop for your adventures,especially after whale watching in Akureyri. Located only a few minutes' walk from the harbor, it’s one of the best places to refuel with a hot drink and pastry after your tour. Not far from the cafe, you can also enjoy a colorful stroll along the Rainbow Footpath or the stunning views from Sigurhaedir Hill.
Step inside, and you’re greeted with soft lighting, a wooden interior, and old–fashioned decorations adorning the walls. If you are looking for a nice place to chat or chill, Bláa Kannan Cafe is one of the best cafes and coffee shops in Akureyri.
Photo from Blaa Kannan Cafe
Bláa Kannan serves homemade cakes and light snacks all day, like freshly baked bread, hearty soups, and savory sandwiches. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air, inviting you to try one of their expertly crafted lattes or a rich, smooth black coffee.
The space feels warm and slightly old-fashioned, with plenty of room to settle in. Find a quiet table by the window, sip your drink, and watch the town go by. It's the perfect spot to relax and grab a bite with a warm beverage in hand.
As evening sets in, the cafe transforms into a relaxed setting ideal for unwinding over conversations or enjoying a nightcap after a day on the nearby slopes. Whether you're a coffee lover or just looking for a peaceful place to relax, Balaa Kannan Cafe is one of the best coffee shops in Akureyri.
Address: Hafnarstraeti 96, 600 Akureyri, Iceland
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Google review score: 4.6 out of 5 stars
2. Kaffi Ilmur
Photo from Kaffi Ilmur
Step into a slice of Akureyri's history at Kaffi Ilmur, a charming cafe in one of the town's oldest buildings. The moment you walk in, you're welcomed by the nostalgic atmosphere of a well-loved home that perfectly captures Icelandic hospitality.
Old photographs, quirky antiques, and a homey interior fill the spacious cafe, making it the perfect spot for a laid-back brunch in Akureyri. With large windows and outdoor seating that offer stunning views of the town and Eyjafjordur Fjord, the cafe invites you to linger and enjoy the surroundings.
Photo from Kaffi Ilmur
Speaking of brunch, Kaffi Ilmur is easily one of the best cafes and coffee shops in Akureyri. Mornings here start with freshly brewed coffee, flaky pastries, and homemade meals that feel just right. The lamb soup is legendary, while lighter options like salads and vegetarian plates showcase the best local ingredients.
Locally, this cafe in Akureyri is best known for its traditional Icelandic cakes. You can't leave Akureyri without trying its "Ingimar" cake. It's a rich combination of chocolate, coconut, berries, cream, and marzipan.
Swing by on the weekend for their laid-back brunch, served from 11:00 to 13:30. It’s the perfect excuse to sip a glass of wine or enjoy a local beer while having a full-blown brunch-and-chat session.
Address: Hafnarstraeti 96, 600 Akureyri, Iceland
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (weekdays) and 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (weekends)
Google review score: 4.6 out of 5 stars
1. LYST in Akureyri Botanical Garden
Photo from LYST
If you're looking for a peaceful place to enjoy coffee in Akureyri, LYST is hard to beat. You'll find it inside the Akureyri Botanical Garden, where nature meets modern brews. With its calm ambiance and location surrounded by trees, it’s the perfect pick for solo travelers, couples, or anyone who loves sipping espresso with a side of fresh air.
The cafe opened in April 2022, founded by local chef Reynir Gretarsson. Since then, it's made a name for itself with fresh, seasonal dishes that use locally sourced ingredients. LYST is known for its lunch menu, where fish, meat, vegetables, and wine take center stage.
Photo from LYST
The offerings are simple but thoughtful, featuring homemade sourdough toasts, hearty soups, delicious garden vegetable dishes, avocado toast, and handpicked chocolates. They also offer a small but curated list of natural wines that pair well with the food.
Inside, the cafe is cabin-like, with a minimalist wooden design, warm tone, and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the surrounding trees. With its peaceful atmosphere, the space is for slow moments, perfect for sipping coffee, reading a book, or enjoying quiet conversation.
Whether walking through the garden or looking for a quiet cafe in Akureyri with a view, LYST is a beautiful spot to pause and enjoy something fresh. It's an excellent place for a laid-back lunch, a slow afternoon, or even a glass of wine to end your day.
Address: Strandgata 3, 600 Akureyri, Iceland
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Sunday to Thursday) and 10:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Friday to Saturday)
Happy Hour: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Google review score: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Discover the Top 12 Best Restaurants in North Iceland
Finding the Best Coffee in Akureyri
One of the best things to do in Akureyri is to slow down and start your day with freshly brewed coffee. Whether fueling up before a road trip, unwinding after a visit to the Akureyri Museum, or chasing the perfect espresso between sightseeing stops, this northern town delivers.
From art-filled nooks to spots where waffles steal the spotlight, the best cafes and coffee shops in Akureyri deliver way more than a caffeine fix. Each spot serves up its own slice of the town's cozy, creative, and distinctly northern charm.
Forget the chain cafes, Akureyri knows how to make coffee right. The local coffee shops featured in this blog bring something special, from cozy ambiance to bold brews. If you want a standout coffee experience, LYST serves freshly brewed coffee paired with seasonal dishes.
If you're looking to explore more local flavors after your coffee stop, check out the top restaurants in Akureyri. Get a full taste of what this northern gem has to offer.
Do you have a favorite cafe in Akureyri that you're excited to try? Share your top picks and go-to drinks in the comment box below!
