Top 9 Things to Do in Hofn

5. Discover Icelandic Art at Svavarssafn

Svavarssafn, or the Museum of Svavar Guðnason, is a dynamic contemporary art museum in Hofn. Throughout the year, the museum hosts a variety of exhibitions featuring Icelandic artists, especially those with ties to the region. Hornafjordur is celebrated for its dramatic landscape and unique glacial light, providing inspiration that many Icelandic artists have sought to capture. Svavarssafn offers a serene space to experience art that reflects this remarkable natural beauty.

Founded to honor Svavar Guðnason (1909–1988), Iceland’s pioneering abstract painter, the museum celebrates his legacy and influence as a leader of Iceland's mid-20th-century avant-garde. Svavar, born in Hofn, was one of the few Icelandic artists of his era to gain an international following.

The museum began when Ásta Eiríksdóttir, Svavar’s widow, donated significant pieces from his collection to Hornafjordur. Today, it houses around 500 works by Svavar and other regional artists. Each year, it presents three exhibitions that blend contemporary pieces with selections from its collection. The museum is open year-round in the city hall, and visitors are free to visit it.

• Check out The Best Museums in Iceland
• Visit the Top 12 Art Museums and Galleries in Reykjavik

4. Taste Local Food on The Stroll

Explore the charming fishing village of Hofn and savor Icelandic delicacies on this two-hour walking tour. Perfect for travelers interested in Icelandic culture and cuisine, this tour begins at the Gamlabud Visitor Center in Hofn, where you’ll meet your knowledgeable local guide.

Stroll along the scenic harbor with views of the Atlantic Ocean, visit the Osland conservation area with its diverse birdlife, and, if visiting between May and August, catch a glimpse of nesting Arctic terns. Enjoy vistas of nearby mountains and, on clear days, the Vatnajokull glacier. Your guide will share stories of Hofn’s fishing heritage, local legends, and the history of this village, established in 1897.

Known as Iceland’s lobster capital, Hofn celebrates its seafood traditions each July with a lobster festival (more on that later). The tour concludes with a tasting at Pakkhús restaurant, where you’ll try local foods unique to this region.

This leisurely tour, ideal for all ages, emphasizes a “slow adventure” approach, offering insights into Hofn’s culture and fostering local connections

• See also our Ultimate Guide to Iceland Food Culture
• Read more about Fishing in Iceland

3. Soar Above Iceland’s Wonders

Embark on a breathtaking 50-minute flight tour over Iceland’s iconic landscapes, including the stunning Jokulsarlon, the sparkling Diamond Beach, and Iceland’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnukur, on the Oraefajokull glacier. This aerial adventure is perfect for travelers eager to witness Iceland’s dramatic beauty from above.

Your journey begins at Skaftafell terminal on Iceland's southeast coast. After check-in and a safety briefing, you’ll board the aircraft with your experienced pilot. The flight starts with a view over the colorful Kjos canyon, known for its sharp ridges and vibrant scenery, before heading to Hvannadalshnukur, towering 6,900 feet above sea level.

Next, you’ll soar over Vatnajokull, Europe’s largest glacier, reaching the renowned Jökulsárlón lagoon with its vast icebergs and cinematic allure. Marvel at the nearby Diamond Beach, where smaller icebergs glitter against the black sand.

As you return to Skaftafell, enjoy sweeping views of glaciers, black sand plains, and farmlands, capturing Iceland’s diverse beauty. This tour offers incredible photo opportunities, showcasing Iceland’s natural wonders from a truly unique perspective.

2. Experience Hike & Ice-Climb Adventure on Vatnajokull

Set off on an exciting glacier hike and ice-climbing adventure at an outlet in Vatnajokull, a standout feature of Skaftafell Nature Reserve. This adventure offers an up-close view of Iceland's icy wilderness.

Starting at the Skaftafell Visitor Center, you'll meet your certified guide for a safety briefing and basic ice-climbing instruction. Equipped with crampons, helmets, harnesses, and ice axes, you’ll step onto the glacier tongue, taking in panoramic views of the mountains, including Iceland’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnukur. Fans of Game of Thrones may recognize the iconic landscape!

As you trek, experience the quiet beauty of the glacier’s pristine, snow-covered terrain, encountering formations like glacier moulins and stunning blue ice sculptures. For added adrenaline, you’ll have the chance to try ice climbing, scaling the glacier walls with ice axes.

Don’t miss this exhilarating experience of exploring and climbing one of nature's wonders—Vatnajokull Glacier.

1. Speed Across Jokulsarlon Glacier

There are several Jokulsarlon tours available, each with different pick-up locations. One excellent option is the Zodiac boat tour, where you’ll glide across the tranquil lagoon, weaving between towering icebergs and spotting resident seals resting on the ice. Ideal for nature enthusiasts, this tour offers a unique perspective of Iceland’s “Crown Jewel.”

Located at the foot of Vatnajokull, Jokulsarlon is where icebergs from Breidamerkurjokull drift toward the Atlantic. Meet your guide at the Jokulsarlon parking area, near Iceland’s Ring Road, for a quick briefing. After suiting up with a flotation suit and lifejacket, board the agile Zodiac boat, which navigates close to the towering icebergs, ideal for capturing amazing photos.

Marvel at the varied icebergs, with their electric blue and pure white hues, and listen to the crackling sounds as they float and collide. Your guide will share insights into the area’s glacial history, and with luck, you’ll spot seals swimming or resting on the ice. Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in the magical beauty of Jokulsarlon!

The Lobster Festival in Hofn

Hofn is famously recognized as Iceland’s lobster capital, and each summer at the end of June, the town hosts a lively Lobster Festival to celebrate this prized delicacy. The festival offers an authentic Icelandic experience filled with local flavors, and year-round, the town’s charming restaurants serve up fresh lobster dishes and other regional specialties.

A highlight is the rich langoustine soup from the local fishery, Skinney-Þinganes. In addition to the food, the festival features sporting events, concerts, and more, making it a must-visit for visitors.

• Learn more about the Top 20 Festivals in Iceland

Top 3 Places to Stay in Hofn

Spending a night or two in Hofn allows you to fully immerse yourself in this picturesque fishing village on Iceland’s southeastern coast. Hofn offers a range of accommodations to suit various preferences and budgets, from cozy guesthouses to scenic hotel rooms, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone.

Whether you’re seeking a convenient base to explore nearby glaciers and other attractions or a tranquil retreat with views of Iceland’s dramatic coastline, Hofn combines comfort with unforgettable natural beauty.

Hotel Hofn

Hotel Hofn offers guests cozy accommodations with views of Vatnajokull, Europe’s largest glacier. Known for comfort and convenience, the hotel serves as an ideal base for exploring Southeast Iceland’s natural wonders.

Each room features modern amenities, including private bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and free WiFi. The hotel’s restaurant specializes in local Icelandic cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, like Hofn’s famous langoustine dishes, along with vegan and gluten-free options.

With easy access to Vatnajokull National Park, black-sand beaches, and winter northern lights tours, Hotel Hofn offers a welcoming retreat for travelers seeking Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.

Berjaya Hofn Hotel

Experience serene comfort at Berjaya Hofn Hotel, a newly renovated, eco-certified retreat in the heart of Hofn. This 36-room hotel combines breathtaking harbor and glacier views with a commitment to sustainability. Guests can choose between double rooms with queen or twin beds, each featuring a private bathroom and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast buffet, including fresh bread, oatmeal, fruit, cereals, coffee, and tea. Light refreshments like sandwiches and smoothies are available throughout the day, along with a bar and Sunday lunch menu.

Convenient free parking and an electric vehicle charging station underscore the hotel’s eco-friendly focus, offering a mindful stay that aligns with environmental values.

Hofn Guesthouse

For a budget-friendly stay, Hofn Guesthouse provides both convenience and charm in the center of the town. Ideal for Ring Road travelers or those exploring the South Coast and East Fjords, this modern guesthouse provides a welcoming base for solo travelers, couples, or groups.

The guesthouse features double rooms with cozy bedding, aurora-inspired decor, and large windows with mountain views. Each room includes a TV and free WiFi, while shared bathrooms come with showers and hairdryers. Guests can also enjoy a communal kitchen and dining area, perfect for self-catering and keeping expenses low.

Choose Hofn Guesthouse for an affordable, comfortable, and well-located stay along Iceland’s Ring Road.

Summary of Things to Do in Hofn

Now you should know what to do in Hofn for a good time and how to enjoy this charming little town in Iceland. Activities in Hofn range from exploring captivating natural scenery and engaging in outdoor adventures to immersing yourself in local culture with unique tours and seasonal festivals.

Visitors can enjoy guided excursions, scenic vistas, and unforgettable experiences that highlight Iceland’s rugged beauty. Iconic sites like the Hofn harbor provide cultural insight, while folklore and history add to the town’s charm.

We hope you’re now inspired by all the exciting activities available in the fishing town Hofn! Which experience interests you the most? Did we miss anything? Share your thoughts in the comments below.