Though Akureyri is Iceland’s second-largest settlement outside the Capital Region, its population of just 20,000 gives it more of a small-town feel than a city. However, its cultural scene, stunning landscapes, and wealth of activities make it a must-visit destination in any season.
You’ll find brightly painted houses nestled beneath snow-capped mountains, botanical gardens just shy of the Arctic Circle, and art galleries that rival those in Reykjavik.
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Whether you're on a romantic getaway, on a Nordic adventure with your family, or renting a car to embark on self-drive tours, Akureyri promises something unforgettable with many tours and experiences to enjoy.
This guide will uncover the top things to do in Akureyri, from iconic sights to hidden local favorites. Start by choosing from the best accommodations in Akureyri to suit your travel style and budget. For a hassle-free visit, browse the top vacation packages to help you plan the perfect North Iceland adventure.
Key Takeaways
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Explore the town’s cultural, historical, and natural attractions, from unique architecture to scenic waterfront views.
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Use Akureyri as a base to visit breathtaking natural wonders, including waterfalls, geothermal areas, and dramatic coastlines.
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From winter sports and northern lights experiences to summer adventures like hiking and wildlife watching, there are always things to do in Akureyri.
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Join expert-led tours to make the most of your trip, whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences
Top 14 Things To Do in Akureyri
The Eyjafjordur Fjord area is beautiful all year round. Akureyri in summer buzzes with outdoor cafés, hiking trails, festivals, and relaxing poolside spots under the midnight sun. There are plenty of things to do in Akureyri for nature lovers and culture seekers alike.
In winter, Akureyri transforms into a snowy wonderland with skiing, snowboarding, and spectacular northern lights viewing. After outdoor adventures, warm up in geothermal hot springs and pools. No matter the season, things to do in Akureyri ensure every visitor has an unforgettable experience.
14. Visit Kjarnaskogur Forest
When visiting the Kjarnaskogur Forest, you'll be amazed to know that back in the early 1950s, this area south of Akureyri had no trees whatsoever. That's when the first trees were planted in this 1,977-acre (800-hectare) area, aiming to create a green area near Akureyri.
Today, the Kjarnaskogur Forest is a popular leisure area among locals. There you can find several hiking trails, family playgrounds, grilling facilities, and even a 6-mile (10-kilometer) mountain biking trail.
13. Hike Mount Sulur
Just outside of Akureyri sits Sulur Mountain, affectionately known as the “town mountain,” which is a great place to go hiking. Just 6 miles (9 kilometers) from Akureyri, it’s a popular destination for those looking to go hiking in Iceland without having to go too far.
Mount Sulur rises at 3,980 feet (1,213 meters). The hike is considered moderate to difficult and is best done with a guide and in good weather.
It can be extra challenging in wet weather because of nearby marshlands that can slow you down. It also gets quite steep in some parts. But once you get to the summit, you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of Akureyri, the surrounding mountains, and the majestic Eyjafjordur Fjord.
12. Visit the Laufas Turf Houses
Photo by Regína Hrönn Ragnarsdóttir
These turf homes in Akureyri, built in 1865, are some of the best-preserved examples of how some Icelanders used to live before the 20th century. These upper-class houses are in pristine condition and serve as a time capsule of a bygone era.
The Laufas Museum and Heritage Site belongs to the National Museum of Iceland, which has provided the houses with early 20th-century farming tools, making the experience of visiting there highly immersive.
The turf homes used to house more than 20 residents and are located only 18 miles (29 kilometers) outside of Akureyri. It's definitely worth visiting if you are interested in taking a step back into the past and learning about the history of Iceland.
11. Have a Beer Bath
Hop into a bath full of hops! This novel experience is available year-round but becomes even more tempting when the weather outside isn't ideal for sightseeing or hiking.
The Bjorbodin (“Beer Bath”) Spa opened in 2017 and offers visitors the unique opportunity to soak in a relaxing bath of young beer and live beer yeast.
The beneficial effects of yeast on the body and skin are well-documented (as explored in this BBC article), and with a follow-up relaxation session, you're guaranteed to leave feeling rejuvenated.
Although you can't sip the suds in which you're soaking, you can enjoy a cold beer straight from the draft tap that sits adjacent to every tub. Book admission to the Bjorbodin Beer Baths and feel your worries wash away in a tub of beer.
10. Visit the Akureyri Swimming Pool
This outdoor geothermal swimming pool is right behind Akureyrarkirkja Church. It's a great place to treat yourself to a relaxing hot tub soak or steam room cleanse.
It's one of the best swimming pools in Iceland. It has two 75-foot (25-meter) outdoor pools, water jets, water slides, a splash pool, an indoor pool, four hot tubs, a steam bath, a sauna, and an extensive outdoor area.
Locals use the outdoor area for sunbathing in the summertime and for rolling around in the snow in the wintertime. A visit to this swimming pool is both an authentic Icelandic experience and ideal for families.
The pool is open all year round, but it's especially satisfying to soak in the hot tubs when it's cold outside.
- Read more about the Best Swimming Pools in Iceland here.
- Learn more about Akureyri | Iceland's Capital of the North
9. Visit the Christmas House, Jolahusid
Photo from Regína Hrönn Ragnarsdóttir
This Christmas House (Jolahusid) is a quaint little gift shop that will get you into the Christmas spirit any time of the year. It’s open year-round, but it's especially magical during the Christmas season in Iceland.
It looks a bit like a cross between a traditional Nordic house and a gingerbread house, with candy adorning the roof. It's painted red and features various Christmas ornaments hanging all over the place.
Regardless of the time of year you visit, you can always buy Christmas gifts, decorations, and even traditional Icelandic Christmas food.
8. Get to Know the Local Culture
If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, Akureyri has many galleries, museums, and music venues that are worth a visit. Despite being significantly smaller than Reykjavik, Akureyri prides itself on its rich cultural life.
The Hof Cultural and Conference Center was opened in 2010 and hosts multiple musical and theatrical events and exhibitions. At Hof, you can also get information about the cultural events taking place in Akureyri.
Find out who's playing in the town's bars and cafes and which exhibitions are taking place in Akureyri Art Museum, home to one of the top cafes in Akureyri.
The Akureyri Theater Company regularly stages plays in English, offering a unique cultural experience for international visitors. If you're exploring cultural activities in Akureyri, catching a performance here is definitely worth your time.
7. Go Horseback Riding
Beautiful, untouched nature surrounds Akureyri, making it the perfect destination for unforgettable horse-riding tours. After just a short drive out of town, you can visit a stable and be surrounded by Icelandic horses in the relaxing Icelandic countryside.
This 1-hour horse riding tour from Gasir Farm near Akureyri allows you to see lush nature while appreciating the Icelandic horses.
- Learn more: Wildlife and Animals in Iceland
6. Go Skiing at Hlidarfjall
Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Sergejf. No edits were made.
Anyone from Reykjavik will complain about the inconsistency of the ski season in the South. The lack of snow can result in the local ski resort on the Blafjoll Mountains only being open for a handful of days in a season.
However, Hlidarfjall Mountain in the North can be open up to 180 days a year, covered in a blanket of white, making it one of the most popular things to do near Akureyri in winter.
It's arguably the best ski resort in Iceland. The 2,300-foot-tall (700-meter-tall) mountain has recently renovated ski lifts, which are easy to use, making Hlidarfjall ideal for both experienced skiers as well as beginners.
5. Visit LYST in the Akureyri Botanical Gardens
On a warm and sunny day in Akureyri, it's the perfect time to admire the colorful flowers in the Akureyri Botanical Garden, known locally as Lystigardurinn.
It's arguably the most beautiful park in Iceland, featuring a diverse flora from all over the world. There's also a specific part of the garden dedicated to native Icelandic flowers and plants.
This public park was opened in 1912 and has over 7,000 species of plants. Entry is free and a perfect place for a cozy walk.
In the middle of the park, take the chance to visit LYST, the best place for coffee, hot chocolate, or a glass of wine in Akureyri. They also serve brunch and lunch and have different pastries on offer, which you can enjoy while admiring the view of the garden.
They host regular events, like live concerts, that support the garden, so keep an eye on their event schedule. The cozy atmosphere, great food and drinks, and the beautiful setting make it a must-visit in Akureyri Botanical Garden!
- Check out the Top 9 Restaurants in Akureyri
- See also: Top 15 Restaurants in North Iceland
4. Visit Akureyri Church
The iconic Akureyri Church is considered one of the top Akureyri attractions. It's conveniently easy to spot as it towers over the town center.
It was consecrated in 1940 and, since then, has always been the most significant landmark of the “Capital of the North.”
The stairs leading up to the church are no less iconic than the church itself, and Icelanders commonly challenge each other to race up the stairs. There is even an annual “church stair race” event in July, where locals compete in racing up the stairs.
3. Relax at Forest Lagoon
Forest Lagoon is a stunning geothermal spa nestled in a birch forest just outside Akureyri. This luxurious retreat features warm, mineral-rich waters sourced from a nearby hot spring, offering a perfect way to unwind while surrounded by nature.
The lagoon provides breathtaking views over Eyjafjordur Fjord, especially at sunset or under the northern lights in winter. With modern facilities, including saunas, relaxation areas, and a swim-up bar, it’s an ideal spot to experience Iceland’s famous geothermal bathing culture.
You can also book your Forest Lagoon admission ticket ahead of time!
2. Find the Northern Lights in Akureyri
Since Akureyri is located further north than Reykjavik, and the city only has 20,000 residents, there's much lower light pollution. The longer nights also make it perfect for northern lights tours.
The northern lights are only visible when it's dark and the sky is clear, so the best time to view the northern lights is during the wintertime.
Join a guided northern lights hunt from Akureyri to increase their chances of witnessing this incredible phenomenon. Local guides know the best remote locations away from any remaining light sources, giving you the optimal chance to experience the aurora in its full glory.
1. Go Whale Watching
The Eyjafjordur Fjord is well known for its rich marine life, making Akureyri a great place to go whale watching in Iceland. Whales are not the only aquatic mammals you might encounter, as the fjord is also a haven for dolphins and porpoises.
The most common animals to see during whale-watching tours in Akureyri include humpback whales, harbor porpoises, minke whales, and dolphins.
Encounters with rare species such as blue whales and orcas are not unheard of in North Iceland, making it the perfect destination for taking to the sea in search of these gentle giants.
You can choose between several Akureyri whale-watching tours, such as our most popular whale-watching tour with transfer from Akureyri or a 2-hour whale- and bird-watching RIB boat tour from Akureyri.
Despite the natural beauty that surrounds Akureyri, whales usually top the list of things to see for visitors.
- Learn more: Whale Watching in Iceland: The Ultimate Guide
Day Trips From Akureyri: Great Places To See Nearby
A charming town in itself, there are plenty of things to do in Akureyri. After exploring the town itself, you could go on day trips to some beautiful places nearby and use the city as your base.
If you're wondering what to see near Akureyri, the first thing you should consider is visiting some of the area's natural attractions. Akureyri is the gateway to the north's spectacular beauty.
Some nearby attractions include:
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Lake Myvatn: A shallow, volcanic lake in northern Iceland renowned for its stunning geothermal landscapes, unique lava formations, and rich birdlife. Join a Lake Myvatn Sightseeing and Hot Springs Tour from Akureyri.
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Asbyrgi Canyon: A dramatic, horseshoe-shaped glacial canyon in northern Iceland, steeped in Norse mythology and surrounded by towering cliffs and lush forest. Book a 9-Hour Diamond Circle Tour With Lake Myvatn and Asbyrgi Canyon from Akureyri.
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Dettifoss Waterfall: Europe’s most powerful waterfall, in North Iceland, plunges 144 feet (44 meters) with breathtaking force. Visit the waterfall by joining a North Iceland 4x4 tour to Dettifoss Waterfall & Lake Myvatn from Akureyri.
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Godafoss Waterfall: Known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” it’s a stunning cascade in North Iceland where water plunges 39 feet (12 meters) over a curved horseshoe-shaped cliff. Explore this waterfall along with other attractions with this 9-hour sightseeing tour from Akureyri.
For more flexibility, you can rent a car in Akureyri or take a 7-day self-drive tour of the north to take in all the sites.
You might also want to hop on a boat and explore the nearby islands, Hrisey or Grimsey.
Hrisey lies in Eyjafjordur, the same fjord in which Akureyri is nestled. It’s Iceland's second-largest island after Heimaey in the Westman Islands on the South Coast. Hrisey has a population of about 180 people, and the town has distinctive, colorful houses with beautiful views in every direction.
The island is a bird-watcher’s paradise, offering excellent summer birdwatching, scenic hiking trails, and the chance to taste the local delicacy, fresh blue mussels.
To reach Hrisey, take the 15-minute ferry from Arskogssandur, just outside Akureyri. If you’re interested, you can find Hrisey's ferry schedule here.
Grimsey marks the northernmost part of Iceland, and it's the only land area that's inside the Arctic Circle. It's around 25 miles (40 kilometers) north of Iceland's mainland, and fewer than 100 people live there.
To reach it, you can take a 30-minute flight from Akureyri or go on a three-hour boat journey from the town of Dalvik, which only runs on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
FAQ About Things To Do in Akureyri
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about the best things to do in Akureyri.
How should I spend a day in Akureyri?
You can spend a day in Akureyri exploring cultural sites, visiting local cafes, enjoying scenic walks, and experiencing outdoor activities like whale watching or skiing, depending on the season.
Is it worth visiting Akureyri?
Yes, Akureyri is worth visiting for its charming atmosphere, stunning natural surroundings, and access to some of North Iceland’s best attractions.
How long should you spend in Akureyri?
One to two days is ideal for exploring the town, but a longer stay allows for day trips to nearby natural wonders.
What is Akureyri known for?
Akureyri is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful fjord setting, botanical gardens, skiing, and as a gateway to North Iceland’s top attractions.
What is the best time to visit Akureyri?
The best time to visit depends on your interests. Summer offers long daylight hours and outdoor adventures, while winter is great for skiing and seeing the northern lights.
How do you get to Akureyri?
You can reach Akureyri by domestic flight from Reykjavik, on Ring Road trips, or by taking a bus or guided tour.
Do you need a car in Akureyri?
While the town itself is walkable, a car is useful for exploring nearby attractions. Akureyri also has free public buses and a taxi service. Alternatively, guided tours offer convenient transportation.
Your Akureyri Journey Awaits
Akureyri offers a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination in North Iceland. Whether you’re exploring local landmarks, enjoying seasonal activities, or venturing into the surrounding landscapes, there are endless things to do in Akureyri.
For those who love flexibility, self-drive tours allow you to explore at your own pace, while multi-day guided tours provide expert insights across more of Iceland. No matter how you choose to experience Akureyri, its charm and stunning surroundings are sure to leave a lasting impression.
There's plenty to do and see in Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland. We hope our list of the best things to do in Akureyri helps you plan your trip. What are you most excited to do? If you've already been, what's your favorite thing to do in Akureyri?
