Akureyri, often called the "Capital of North Iceland," is a lively Icelandic town surrounded by stunning landscapes, making it the perfect base for exploring the region’s top attractions and nature.
From whale-watching excursions in nearby fjords to visits to charming local museums, the top Akureyri tours offer a rich blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and thrilling adventures. Whether you’re hiking through scenic trails, soaking in geothermal baths, or indulging in local cuisine, you'll find something exciting to experience.
Top 5 Tours in Akureyri, Iceland
Tours from Akureyri run in some of the calmest conditions in the country. The town records at least 28 calm days in every month, according to our study of the windiest and least windy months in Iceland. That means the wind is rarely the thing standing between you and your plans.
Akureyri also gets less rain than Reykjavik in all twelve months, according to our study of the rainiest month in Iceland. The gap holds from day to day as well. Book a tour from Akureyri as a backup when the forecast for the south is wet.
The town also has Iceland’s warmest summer afternoons. Whale watching and Myvatn tours are at their best in the afternoon, so choose a later departure in July and August.
1. Go on a Whale Watching Tour
Explore Eyjafjordur Fjord on the Akureyri Whale Watching Tour, where you may spot humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins, and harbor porpoises. Humpbacks are the most commonly sighted whales in the area, while orcas are rare visitors.
This three-hour tour includes warm overalls and guides who share information about marine life. Here are some reasons to go on a whale watching tour in Akureyri:
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Look for humpback whales, dolphins, and harbor porpoises in the wild.
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Enjoy views of Eyjafjordur Fjord from the water.
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Learn about marine life from the guides.
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Stay warm with the provided overalls.
Whale watching in Akureyri is available year-round, with departures subject to weather conditions. Humpbacks can be seen in summer and winter, although sightings are never guaranteed.
Boat type, group size, and onboard facilities vary between tours. Differences between operators are also discussed in our study of the best whale watching companies in Iceland.
2. Soak in the Natural Waters of Lake Myvatn
The Lake Myvatn Sightseeing & Hot Springs Tour from Akureyri is the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. This full-day tour takes you to Godafoss Waterfall, the Skutustadagigar pseudocraters, and the Dimmuborgir Lava Fields, offering stunning volcanic landscapes.
Explore steaming fumaroles at Namafjall, visit the Viti explosion crater, and finish with a soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters of Earth Lagoon, surrounded by lava fields and breathtaking views. An unforgettable experience for nature lovers and relaxation seekers alike.
3. Go on an All-in-One Godafoss, Myvatn, and Dettifoss Tour
Experience the best of North Iceland’s natural wonders on the All-in-One Myvatn, Godafoss, and Dettifoss Tour. This comprehensive adventure takes you to some of Iceland’s most breathtaking landscapes, from powerful waterfalls to volcanic formations. Here are some highlights of this tour:
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Godafoss Waterfall: The legendary "Waterfall of the Gods," known for its majestic beauty and Viking history.
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Dettifoss Waterfall: One of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls, a must-see for nature lovers.
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Lake Myvatn: A geothermal wonderland with volcanic craters and rich wildlife.
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Hverir Geothermal Area: Bubbling mud pools and steaming fumaroles in a Martian-like landscape.
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Dimmuborgir Lava Fields: A surreal area of twisting lava formations and folklore legends.
This all-in-one tour is perfect for travelers looking to experience North Iceland’s most iconic natural attractions in a single day. From thundering waterfalls to otherworldly geothermal landscapes, this journey combines adventure, scenic beauty, and geological wonders, making it an unforgettable exploration of Iceland’s rugged north.
4. See the Northern Lights on an Evening Tour
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the northern lights on the northern lights Hunt from Akureyri, where expert guides take you to remote dark-sky locations for an unforgettable aurora-hunting adventure. With the right conditions, you’ll witness the sky come alive in shades of green, purple, and pink.
Following the recent solar maximum, 2026 remains an excellent year to see the northern lights in Iceland, as solar activity is still higher than average and can produce vivid aurora displays.
This tour offers an in-depth look at one of nature’s most spectacular displays. Expert guides will explain the science and folklore behind the auroras while leading you to the best locations, far from city lights, for the clearest views.
With guidance on long-exposure photography, you’ll have the chance to capture incredible images of the dancing lights in the night sky. A must-do winter experience in Akureyri, this tour offers a night filled with beauty and adventure.
5. Relax at the Forest Lagoon
For a peaceful retreat, the Forest Lagoon entrance pass invites visitors to unwind in a modern geothermal spa surrounded by lush forest and breathtaking fjord views. This tranquil escape features infinity pools, a sauna, a cold plunge, and a swim-up bar, offering the perfect way to relax after a day of exploring North Iceland.
With its natural hot spring water sourced from the nearby Vadlaheidi Mountain, the Forest Lagoon provides a soothing and rejuvenating experience in a setting that feels far removed from everyday life.
Get ready to soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters, enjoy the panoramic views of the Eyjafjordur Fjord, and unwind in the cozy relaxation areas at the spa. This is an essential thing to do in Akureyri for those seeking ultimate relaxation and wellness in North Iceland.
Best Time of Year to Go On a Tour in Akureyri
Akureyri is a year-round destination, offering unique experiences in every season. Whether you're looking for thrilling outdoor adventures, breathtaking landscapes, or cultural immersion, Akureyri has a tour for you. Here’s a guide to the best time to visit and the top tours for each season.
Summer Tours in Akureyri (June - August)
With nearly 24 hours of daylight, summer is the perfect season for exploring Iceland's natural beauty, hiking, and wildlife tours. Our study of sunshine records also found that June is the sunniest month in North Iceland, with Akureyri averaging about 6.4 hours of sunshine a day.
Winter Tours in Akureyri (December - March)
Winter in Akureyri is a magical time, with snow-covered landscapes, frozen waterfalls, and a high chance of seeing the northern lights. This is the best season for ice cave explorations, geothermal baths, and aurora hunting.
No matter when you visit, Akureyri has something special to offer. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, you’ll find a variety of tours from Akureyri that match your interests and travel style. Start planning your Akureyri adventure today and experience Iceland’s incredible beauty in every season!
Akureyri is the capital of the north. Stay at one of the Akureyri hotels and use the list above.