Akureyri, the Capital of the North | Culture, History, and Activities

What is the history behind the largest town outside the Capital Region, Akureyri, often referred to as the “Capital of the North”? How does Akureyri’s unique culture compare to Reykjavik’s? Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about Akureyri.

One of Iceland’s must-visit destinations is Akureyri, affectionately known as the “Capital of the North.” Akureyri is the largest town in Iceland outside the Capital Region. It has a population of 20,067, according to our demographics of Iceland study.

Explore this unique town and its surroundings with Akureyri tours, offering a great way to experience local culture and natural beauty. Alternatively, many visitors choose to rent a car and embark on self-drive tours, giving them the freedom to explore Iceland at their own pace.

Despite its small size, Akureyri has developed a distinct culture all its own. The town is home to museums, art galleries, green spaces, and a community that shares many of the same passions as other Icelanders.

So how did Akureyri earn its title as the “Capital of the North”? Keep reading to discover the history that shaped this northern town in Iceland.

Key Takeaways

• Iceland’s largest town outside the Capital Region: Akureyri had a population of 20,067 in 2026 and sits at the head of Eyjafjordur Fjord in North Iceland. The town is located about 236 miles (380 kilometers) northeast of Reykjavik.

• How to get there: The drive from Reykjavik takes just under five hours on the Ring Road. Domestic flights from Reykjavik take about 45 minutes, and scheduled buses run daily.

• Settled in AD 890: Helgi Magri Eyvindarson claimed the land around the fjord. The name Akureyri is usually translated as “Field Sand-spit,” from akur (field) and eyri (spit of land).

• Museums and galleries: The town has the Akureyri Art Museum, Akureyri Museum, the Icelandic Aviation Museum, and the Motorcycle Museum of Iceland, along with Akureyrarkirkja Church and the Akureyri Botanical Gardens.

• A base for North Iceland: Godafoss Waterfall, Lake Myvatn, and whale watching from Husavik are all within day-trip range of Akureyri.

• Ein Med Ollu is the town’s main festival: The family festival runs over the August bank holiday weekend, with concerts, a funfair, a market, and fireworks.

• A year-round destination in Iceland: Winter brings skiing and the northern lights, while summer offers hiking and long daylight hours.

The History of Akureyri

Akureyri is a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. It is known for its cold winters that are snowier than Reykjavik, making it home to some of the best skiing locations in Iceland. Its summers are mild and pleasant, making it a great year-round destination with seasonal contrasts to explore and discover.

Icelandic history is deeply intertwined with its historic Sagas, the “Íslendingasögur,” which offer invaluable insight into the origins and culture of the Icelandic people. These sagas are a point of great pride, revered for their scope and accuracy, and provide the foundation for understanding the development of Iceland’s settlements, including Akureyri.

The Age of Settlement

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Ksarasola. No edits made.

According to the Landnámabók (Book of Settlements), the first known settler in the Akureyri area was Helgi Magri Eyvindarson, an Irish Viking who arrived in the Eyjafjordur Fjord in AD 890. Helgi, born to an Irish mother and Norse father, sailed to Iceland with his wife, Thorunn Hyrna. While his exact reasons for settling in the area remain unclear, it’s believed that his unique blend of Christian and Norse beliefs influenced his decision.

Helgi spent his first winter at Hamundarstadir, located far west of modern-day Akureyri, before venturing into the northern regions of the island. As he established his estate, he lit a number of fires between Siglufjordur and Reynisnes, marking the removal of evil spirits and the formal establishment of his land.

In Norse tradition, fire, the sun, and heat were believed to be powerful forces against supernatural creatures such as trolls, elves, and hidden folk, beings that have long been woven into the fabric of Icelandic folklore.

Helgi established his estate, Kristnes (Christ’s Headland), near what is now Akureyri. Helgi’s legacy endures as a key figure in the settlement of the northern region of Iceland, similar to Ingólfur Arnarson, who is regarded as the founder of Reykjavik.

The name “Akureyri” itself is shrouded in mystery. While numerous theories about its origin exist, the most widely accepted translation is “Field Sand-spit,” likely referring to a sheltered cornfield that once thrived in the region’s narrow gullies.

The Growth of Akureyri

Although Akureyri’s history stretches back to the Age of Settlement, permanent settlement truly began in 1778. Before that, the area was mentioned in various historical records, including a particularly interesting case from 1562, in which a woman from Akureyri was convicted of adultery.

The scandal was notable because, at the time, the woman was caught without a marriage license—a serious offense in Iceland’s strict society. This glimpse into early social life in Akureyri reflects the modest yet dynamic beginnings of the area.

In the mid-16th century, the only buildings in Akureyri were shops and warehouses owned by Danish merchants. During this time, Iceland was still a territory of the Danish monarchy, and Icelanders were subject to the Danish Crown. While this arrangement sometimes caused tension, it facilitated trade, technology, and communication across the country at the time.

Akureyri’s natural harbor made it a prime location for trade, but the seasonal nature of the merchants’ presence in the area meant growth was slow. The Danish merchants would return home each winter, leaving the settlement largely inactive during the colder months.

Akureyri was designated an official trading post in 1602, but real development didn’t take off until later. The first permanent house was built in 1778 after the Danish merchants were granted permission to reside in Akureyri during the winter. By 1786, the town received its municipal charter, solidifying its status as a recognized settlement.

The Danish merchants also introduced farming techniques, which allowed for the cultivation of crops that had previously been impossible in the region. By 1800, Icelanders were successfully harvesting potatoes, marking a significant agricultural breakthrough for the region.

Despite this support, Akureyri’s population growth was slow. In fact, by 1836, the Danish Crown revoked the town’s municipal charter due to disappointing population numbers. It was a blow to the town’s development, and for the next few decades, Akureyri existed as an unofficial outpost. However, the charter was reinstated in 1862, sparking a new era of growth for the town.

Akureyri in the 19th Century

By the end of the 19th century, Akureyri began to evolve into a bustling town. Despite British writer Ethel Brilliana Tweedie’s bleak description of the town during her visit in 1888, recorded in her book A Girl’s Ride in Iceland, where she noted the “sad, dejected” appearance of the locals, Akureyri’s strategic location in Eyjafjordur, with its fertile land and natural harbor, started to draw settlers. Its increasing prominence in Iceland’s fishing and agricultural industries fueled the town’s growth.

The formation of the Eyjafjordur Co-operative Society played a crucial role in Akureyri’s growth. This group of local farmers and traders negotiated fiercely with Danish merchants, improving the town’s economic and living conditions. Agriculture, fishing, and trade became integral parts of the economy, with the population reaching 1,370 people by 1900.

Despite this growth, Akureyri still faced significant challenges. The lack of modern infrastructure made life difficult for many of its residents. Yet the town was beginning to establish itself as a vital hub in Iceland’s northern region.

Modernization and WWII Impact

Akureyri’s modernization accelerated during World War II, when Iceland’s strategic location attracted foreign troops. The town served as a key base for the Norwegian-British No. 330 Squadron of the Royal Air Force, which used Catalina flying boats and Northrop N-3PB aircraft to protect Allied shipping routes between Europe and the United States.

The presence of foreign troops not only brought infrastructure development but also exposed Icelanders to the broader world. The war years reshaped Iceland’s international relations for decades afterward.

By the end of the war, Akureyri had developed critical industries—particularly fishing and agriculture. The town had solidified its importance in Iceland’s northern region and was beginning to emerge as a thriving center of commerce and culture. The war marked a turning point for Akureyri, with modern infrastructure becoming a necessity rather than a luxury.

By the mid-20th century, Akureyri had transformed into a modern, thriving town, setting the stage for the town we know today. Both domestic and international influences bolstered its continued growth and development, making it a vital part of Iceland’s national identity.

Top Attractions in Akureyri

Akureyri is one of North Iceland’s best destinations for culture, nature, and outdoor adventures. The top things to do in Akureyri include visiting museums and art galleries, enjoying local festivals, hiking scenic trails, and exploring Eyjafjordur and the volcanic landscapes around Lake Myvatn.

Akureyri Art Museum

Address: Kaupvangsstraeti 8-12, 600 Akureyri, Iceland

Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (June to August); 12:00 PM–5:00 PM (September to May)

Opened in 1993 as the first museum outside Reykjavik dedicated only to visual art, the Akureyri Art Museum is housed in a former Bauhaus-style dairy building at the top of Listagil, the town’s “Art Canyon.”

The museum’s exhibitions change throughout the year. They range from Icelandic masters like Jóhannes S. Kjarval to emerging artists working in painting, photography, video, and installation.

Admission is 2,400 ISK for adults and free for those under 18. The Akureyri Art Museum is also a VIP Club partner, so Guide to Iceland customers who purchase tickets at the reception can enjoy 10% off the museum’s shop.

Leave time for Ketilkaffi, the museum’s cafe, known for its fish soup, sourdough bread, and natural wines. On sunny days, grab a seat on the patio or rooftop overlooking Listagil.

Akureyri Museum

Address: Adalstraeti 58, 600 Akureyri, Iceland

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM

The Akureyri Museum is a perfect stop for those interested in exploring the town’s history. It offers a deep dive into Akureyri’s story of settlement, growth, and development, providing context for how the town became the cultural hub it is today. Through its exhibits, visitors can learn about the early settlers and Akureyri’s evolution over time.

The Icelandic Aviation Museum

Address: Akureyri Airport, 600 Akureyri, Iceland

Opening Hours: Open daily, 1:00 PM–4:00 PM (hours may vary; check the website for updates)

For something a bit different, the Icelandic Aviation Museum highlights Iceland’s aviation history. With exhibits on the early days of flight and the evolution of aviation in the region, the museum, located at the Akureyri Airport, offers an insider look at Iceland’s role in global aviation.

The Motorcycle Museum of Iceland

Address: Krokeyri 2, 600 Akureyri, Iceland

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 1:00 PM–5:00 PM (closed Sundays)

The Motorcycle Museum of Iceland offers an impressive collection of vintage motorcycles. It showcases Iceland’s unique relationship with transport and technology, with a focus on the development of motorcycles in Iceland. The museum is an excellent stop for enthusiasts and anyone curious about the history of motor vehicles in the country.

Akureyrarkirkja Church

One of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks, Akureyrarkirkja Church, is an impressive example of Icelandic architecture, designed by renowned architect Guðjón Samúelsson. Inspired by Iceland’s basalt rock formations, the church’s distinctive facade makes it a must-see for visitors. With its tall steeple and intricate design, the church offers architectural beauty and views of the surrounding town and fjord.

Akureyri Botanical Gardens

The Akureyri Botanical Gardens are a tranquil retreat in the heart of the town. Home to over 7,000 plant species, this lush garden is a peaceful escape for nature lovers and a wonderful place to stroll. The gardens are especially known for their diverse collection of native and non-native plants, offering a serene experience throughout the year.

While exploring the gardens, make sure to stop by LYST, one of the best cafes in Akureyri, located nearby. With its cozy atmosphere and delicious offerings, LYST is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a coffee or light meal after your visit to the gardens.

Akureyri Municipal Library

Established in 1827, the Akureyri Municipal Library (Amtsbokasafnid) is one of Iceland’s oldest public libraries. It serves as a vital cultural hub in Akureyri and offers an extensive collection of books, magazines, audiovisual materials, and digital resources.

Visitors can enjoy various services, including reading areas, study spaces, and a cafe named Ordakaffi, which serves meals and refreshments.

The library also hosts exhibitions, lectures, and workshops, catering to diverse interests and age groups. Its commitment to promoting knowledge and community engagement makes it a cornerstone of Akureyri’s cultural landscape.

Christmas House (Jolahusid)

If you’re in Akureyri during the holiday season—or even if you’re not—be sure to visit the Christmas House. This charming, year-round Christmas store celebrates the magic of the holidays with festive decorations, gifts, and a cozy, wintery atmosphere.

Located just outside Akureyri, the Christmas House offers visitors a chance to experience the joy and warmth of Christmas no matter the time of year. This is the place to be if you’re looking for unique Christmas ornaments, handmade gifts, or simply want to enjoy some holiday spirit.

Whale Watching in Akureyri

Akureyri is one of the best places in Iceland for whale watching, particularly Eyjafjordur. Visitors can spot a variety of whale species, including humpback whales, minke whales, and even the occasional blue whale. Join an Akureyri whale watching tour for the chance to experience these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Forest Lagoon

The Forest Lagoon is a geothermal spa set in Vadlaskogur Forest, on the eastern shore of Eyjafjordur Fjord. It lies 2.2 miles (3.6 kilometers) from central Akureyri, about a five-minute drive. Two infinity pools look out over the fjord and the town below.

The spa opened in 2022 and also has a Finnish sauna, a cold pool, swim-up bars, and a bistro. Its water comes from Vadlaheidi Mountain.

Plan on one to two hours for a visit. You can book an entrance ticket to the Forest Lagoon ahead of your trip, as entry without a reservation depends on availability.

Hof Cultural Center

The Hof Cultural Center is a modern venue in Akureyri that plays a key role in the town’s cultural scene. Hosting concerts, exhibitions, and a wide range of cultural events throughout the year, Hof is a hub for both locals and visitors to experience live performances and artistic showcases. Its contemporary design makes it a striking addition to Akureyri’s cultural landscape.

The Toy Museum at Fridbjarnarhus

Photo from the Toy Museum at Fridbjarnarhus.

Address: Adalstraeti 46, 600 Akureyri, Iceland

Opening Hours: June to September 1, daily from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

The Toy Museum at Fridbjarnarhus is a charming destination for both children and adults, offering a nostalgic journey through Icelandic history via toys from past decades. Located in a historic house, the museum features a diverse collection of toys spanning several generations, showcasing the cultural significance of play throughout the years.

With its cozy atmosphere and carefully curated exhibits, the Toy Museum is a unique and delightful experience for families and those interested in Icelandic heritage.

Ein Med Ollu Akureyri Festival

Photo from Ein Med Ollu.

Ein Med Ollu is Akureyri’s family festival, held each year over Verslunarmannahelgi. This Icelandic bank holiday weekend falls on the first Monday in August, and the festival starts the preceding Thursday.

The program runs well beyond music, with a funfair, a pop-up market in the town center, and a request-song concert at Akureyrarkirkja Church. Families head to Forest Day in Kjarnaskogur Forest, and the Moms and Muffins fundraiser takes place in the Akureyri Botanical Gardens.

Music closes the weekend with a Saturday stadium concert at Akureyrarvollur and Sparitonleikar on Sunday, a free concert featuring well-known Icelandic artists. A fireworks display by the Sulur search and rescue team ends the festival.

For events held around the country, see the top festivals in Iceland.

Accommodations in Akureyri

Akureyri, the Capital of the North, is the main base for exploring the region, so it has the widest choice of places to stay in North Iceland. Hotels and accommodation in Akureyri range from full-service hotels to guesthouses, apartments, and hostels.

These are some of the best places to stay in Akureyri:

• Hotel Akureyri – Located near the harbor, it has comfortable rooms with private bathrooms and an in-house restaurant.

• Hotel Halond – A beautiful hotel with panoramic views and proximity to outdoor attractions like Hlidarfjall Mountain.

• Torg Guesthouse – A cozy guesthouse with single, double, twin, and triple rooms, ideal for a budget-friendly stay.

• Hotel Kea – A charming hotel located in the heart of Akureyri, offering elegant rooms, modern amenities, and two restaurants, Múlaberg Bistro & Bar and Terían Brasserie.

• Hotel Natur – A family-run hotel near Eyjafjordur, featuring a hot tub, panoramic views, and proximity to the Diamond Circle route.

Dining in Akureyri

Akureyri is the largest town in North Iceland and has the widest range of restaurants in the region. Most of the restaurants in Akureyri sit within walking distance of each other downtown. To try several in one evening, book the Akureyri food walk tour, which visits local food stops on a guided walk.

• Strikið: Located on the fifth floor of a building with harbor views, Strikið’s menu features Nordic sushi variations, cured cod with yuzu sorbet, and an “Arctic pizza” topped with North Atlantic char, pickled beetroot, goat cheese, and pesto.

• Rub 23: Known for its fresh seafood and sushi, Rub 23 provides a modern dining experience focusing on local ingredients.

• Kaffi Ilmur: A cozy cafe with a selection of pastries, sandwiches, and specialty coffees, perfect for a casual meal or afternoon break.

• Terían Brasserie: A bright French-Italian brasserie in Hotel Kea, known for its build-your-own brunch and casual pasta and pizza menu. Guide to Iceland VIP Club members get a discount on all food and drinks.

• Eyja Vínstofa & Bistro: Opened in 2022, this bar and bistro in Akureyri brings exceptional wines, gourmet food, and a chic atmosphere to the town center. Guide to Iceland VIP Club members get 10% off the three-course menu every day.

• Bautinn: A popular spot among locals, Bautinn serves traditional Icelandic dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

• Einstok Brewery is based in Akureyri, and its beers appear on menus across the town. It is one of Iceland’s best-known craft breweries.

Tours and Activities Around Akureyri

Akureyri serves as a gateway to numerous tours and activities that highlight the natural beauty and cultural richness of North Iceland. Here are some of our recommendations:

• Godafoss Waterfall Tour and Forest Lagoon Bathing – Enjoy a five-hour guided tour from Akureyri Port, combining scenic sightseeing, a relaxing geothermal bath, and tasty Icelandic snacks.

• 8-Hour Diamond Circle Shore Excursion – Embark on a guided tour from Akureyri Port, covering Godafoss Waterfall, Asbyrgi Canyon, Dettifoss Waterfall, Husavik, the puffin cliffs at Tjornes, Lake Myvatn, and the Namaskard Geothermal Area.

• Lake Myvatn Sightseeing & Hot Springs Tour – A guided tour with hotel pickup from Akureyri, visiting Godafoss Waterfall, the Skutustadagigar Pseudocraters, Dimmuborgir Lava Fields, and other top attractions in North Iceland.

• 6-Hour Arctic Coastline and Trollaskagi Peninsula Tour – Explore the scenic Arctic Coast Way along Eyjafjordur Fjord on a guided tour from Akureyri. You stop in Olafsfjordur and Siglufjordur, the “Trapped” filming town, then soak in the hot pots at Hauganes.

Akureyri is also a common base for northern lights hunting in winter. Our cloud-coverage study puts North Iceland behind its reputation, though, and the sky over the town opens up far less often than in the southeast. What Akureyri does have is latitude, giving it a little more darkness at midwinter, and tours that can drive toward whichever part of the north is clearest that night.

Timing helps close the gap. Aim for October to November or February to March, the months with the strongest aurora activity, and give yourself several nights.

Skiing is the other main winter activity. Hlidarfjall sits just above Akureyri, and our guide to skiing and snowboarding in Iceland covers the season, passes, and the gear you need.

Explore Beyond Akureyri

Akureyri offers plenty to explore, but the surrounding region is equally captivating. A short drive from the town, you’ll find several destinations that offer stunning natural landscapes. Godafoss Waterfall sits on the Ring Road between Akureyri and Lake Myvatn.

Lake Myvatn

Lake Myvatn lies 50 miles (80 kilometers) from Akureyri and is one of Iceland’s beautiful natural wonders, known for its geothermal activity, volcanic features, and rich birdlife. The area is a haven for nature lovers, and visitors can explore the lake’s bubbling mud pools, steam vents, and lava formations before relaxing in the Earth Lagoon, formerly known as Myvatn Nature Baths.

It’s an excellent spot for hiking, photography, and immersing yourself in Icelandic nature.

Husavik

Located 55 miles (89 kilometers) from Akureyri, Husavik is renowned as one of the best places in Iceland for whale watching. The town’s sheltered harbor provides easy access to the waters of Skjalfandi Bay, where you can spot humpback whales, minke whales, and more.

Husavik is also home to the Whale Museum, where you can learn more about these majestic mammals and the history of whale watching in Iceland.

Two more stops sit within easy reach of Akureyri. The Trollaskagi Peninsula rises to the north, with steep mountains, road tunnels, and small fishing villages along the coast. Grimsey Island lies farther out, across the Arctic Circle, and flights to the island leave from Akureyri.

Akureyri Awaits You

Akureyri is a destination where history, culture, and nature harmoniously combine. Whether you’re drawn to its fascinating Viking past, its role in Icelandic culture, or the abundance of outdoor adventures, Akureyri has something for everyone.

As the hub of North Iceland, Akureyri is a must-visit for those seeking a deeper connection with Iceland’s heritage. Pack your bags, hit the road, and explore everything Akureyri has to offer—the “Capital of the North” awaits!