Isafjordur’s location makes it a key starting point for exploring the region. From the town, visitors can reach sea cliffs, quiet beaches, and nature reserves that can be difficult to access. A number of Westfjords day tours depart from Isafjordur, offering options for those without a car or looking to cover more ground.
A common highlight on these tours is Dynjandi, one of the Westfjords’ most iconic waterfalls. Some itineraries even include a combined farm and waterfall tour from Isafjordur Port, which introduces both the region’s nature and rural life.
The town also functions as a port of call for cruise ships during the summer months. For passengers with limited time, there are several shore excursions from Isafjordur, typically covering major landmarks and scenic areas within a few hours before returning to the port.
Isafjordur and the Westfjords can also be included in Iceland vacation packages, allowing travelers to combine this remote destination with other major attractions across the country.
Key Takeaways
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Isafjordur serves as a central hub for exploring the Westfjords region.
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The town offers a mix of cultural and outdoor activities, including museums, festivals, hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.
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Isafjordur was historically a fishing town, though its economy is shifting towards tourism.
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The surrounding Westfjords region boasts natural attractions like Dynjandi Waterfall, Latrabjarg Sea Cliffs, and Raudisandur Beach.
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Summer is the recommended time to visit due to the challenging winter conditions and road accessibility.
Why Visit Isafjordur?
Isafjordur is one of the few Icelandic Westfjord settlements large enough to be considered a town. It's in the Skutulsfjordur Fjord, which is part of the larger Isafjardardjup Fjord. With a population of around 2,700, Isafjordur (spelled Ísafjörður in Icelandic) is the largest town on Iceland’s entire northwest peninsula.
Set against a stunning backdrop of mountains and the sea, Isafjordur is considered the unofficial capital of the Westfjords. Visitors book their accommodations in Isafjordur to take advantage of its hotels, shopping, cultural attractions, as well as a vibrant dining scene that features local craft beers and some of the best fresh seafood Iceland has to offer.
Isafjordur's Old Town is the city’s crown jewel, featuring a well-preserved area of historic buildings that date back to the 18th century. These brightly colored buildings were once used as trading posts, homes, and warehouses, but now give travelers a glimpse into the town's past and make for a supremely picturesque stroll.
Beyond the town, visitors can enjoy plenty of things to do, including sightseeing in the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. For more adventurous travelers, a four-day Westfjords tour is the perfect way to take in both the town's highlights and its more remote surroundings.
History of Isafjordur Town
According to Iceland's iconic medieval Book of Settlement, the Skutulsfjordur Fjord was first settled in the 9th century by Helgi Magri Hrólfsson.
Isafjordur itself grew rapidly during the 16th century, becoming a center for trade and fishing thanks to its natural harbor. In 1786, the town gained municipal status.
Isafjordur had been one of the largest fishing areas in Iceland for decades. However, declines in local fish populations, fishing restrictions, and more prominent fisheries in Reykjavik have led to a shift in the town’s economic focus, particularly toward visitors.
Things To Do in Isafjordur
Isafjordur has a mix of cultural attractions and outdoor activities that make it a rewarding stop in the Westfjords. The town blends history, creativity, and local character with access to dramatic landscapes and coastal wildlife.
In the sections below, you’ll find a variety of ways to experience the area. These include cultural sites, seasonal events, water-based activities, and nearby natural highlights worth adding to your itinerary.
Visit Cultural Attractions in Isafjordur
Isafjordur may be small, but it has a rich cultural landscape shaped by its history, creative community, and connection to the sea. The highlights below offer a good starting point for those interested in exploring the local heritage.
Westfjords Heritage Museum
Visit the Westfjords Heritage Museum to learn about the history and cultural significance of the region. The museum is housed within one of the oldest buildings in Iceland, and is located in the Nedstikaupstadur area, which is home to the country's most extensive body of old timber frame houses.
Culture House
Located in one of Isafjordur’s most historically significant buildings, the Culture House is a striking blend of old and new architecture that merits a look, even if you don’t go in. Initially serving as a hospital, it’s now a public library, museum, and exhibition hall, each designed to foster deep connections to Icelandic culture.
Outdoor Activities in Isafjordur
Isafjordur is a great destination for travelers who enjoy spending time in nature. Its coastal setting and surrounding landscapes offer a variety of outdoor experiences during the warmer months, from kayaking and hiking to birdwatching and whale watching.
Kayaking in Isafjordur
Kayaking tours are a great way to explore Iceland during the warmer months, and kayaking from Isafjordur is no exception. Travelers can navigate the Westfjord waters while admiring fantastic views and watching for seals and native sea birds.
Bird Watching in Isafjordur
Speaking of birds, Isafjordur and the Westfjords in general are a bird lover's paradise. Guillemots, Arctic terns, and Atlantic puffins make the remote region their home.
Vigur Island, just off the coast of Isafjordur, is famous for its impressive colonies of birds. Visitors can experience it for themselves on a kayak and wildlife tour.
Whale Watching in Isafjordur
Whale-watching tours are one of Iceland’s most popular tourism activities, and it’s yet another item animal lovers will be glad to add to their Westfjords itinerary.
This family-friendly whale-watching tour from Isafjordur provides ample opportunities for spotting both whales and dolphins in their natural environment.
Hiking the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
Isafjordur is also one of the main entry points to the Hornstrandir nature reserve, one of Iceland’s most remote and untouched areas. This protected area is home to the Arctic fox, Iceland's only native mammal, and over 250 plant species.
If you’re short on time, you can book a single-day guided hiking excursion. For a deeper experience, camp overnight to immerse yourself in the reserve’s wild beauty. Take a boat trip from Isafjordur to Hornvik Bay to reach hiking trails and campgrounds, as the area isn’t accessible by car. Just remember to book your return transfer separately.
Attending Outdoor Events in Isafjordur
If you’re traveling to Isafjordur around Easter, you can discover local Icelandic musicians and bands at the free Aldrei For Eg Sudur alternative music festival or enjoy a range of outdoor activities during the Ski Week festival.
Explore Other Attractions in the Westfjords
The Westfjords are home to some of Iceland’s most striking and memorable landscapes, many of which can be visited on a day trip from Isafjordur. The routes to these destinations offer scenic drives through fjords, mountains, and peaceful coastal areas, making the journey part of the experience.
From powerful waterfalls to dramatic sea cliffs and colorful beaches, the following natural attractions highlight the raw beauty of the region. Each destination offers something unique, whether you’re interested in photography, wildlife viewing, or simply enjoying the views.
Dynjandi Waterfall
Known as "the jewel of the Westfjords," the Dynjandi Waterfall is one of the most impressive and beautiful in Iceland.
Standing about 330 feet (100 meters) tall, with a top width of 98 feet (30 meters) and a bottom width nearly double that, it's also the largest waterfall in the Westfjords region. Located about 35 miles (60 kilometers) west of Isafjordur, visiting the waterfall is an easy stop on a day trip out of town.
Latrabjarg Sea Cliffs
The Latrabjarg Sea Cliffs are the westernmost point of Iceland. Sitting on the western edge of the Westfjords, about 113 miles (180 kilometers) from Isafjordur, they’re quite a distance away but worth the journey. Thought to be home to an estimated five million sea birds in summer, it’s yet another must-see for bird lovers.
Arctic terns, edier ducks, guillemots, and razorbills all make their homes at the sea cliffs, but the main attraction is the massive colony of nesting Atlantic puffins. The puffins are protected, and opportunities for photographing puffins in nature are plentiful.
Raudisandur Beach
Most beaches in Iceland have jet-black sand made up of volcanic rock and dried lava. Raudisandur Beach, however, has sands of red and gold. These sands are unique because the Westfjords region is no longer volcanically active.
About 90 miles (150 kilometers) outside of Isafjordur, the beach lies in close proximity to the Latrabjarg Cliffs on the Westfjords’ western coast. This location makes it a popular spot for both bird- and seal-watching.
How To Reach Isafjordur
Getting to Isafjordur can be challenging because of its remote location, but it is well worth the effort. The easiest way to get there is by renting a car and heading out for self-driving adventures.
You can reach the region by taking the Ring Road north out of Reykjavik and turning onto Route 60, which leads into the Westfjords. The drive is long (about 260 miles or 420 kilometers), but it's incredibly scenic and takes you through some of Iceland's most beautiful landscapes.
Alternatively, you can take a domestic flight from Reykjavik Airport to Isafjordur and take Westfjords tours to see the surrounding nature. You can even book a 2-day Westfjord trip with flights from Reykjavik for a complete adventure.
In addition to how you travel, it’s also important to be mindful of when you travel to Isafjordur. The Westfjords and Isafjordur are tundra regions, meaning the winters are freezing, and icy conditions are typical.
Additionally, the roads in the Westfjords are mostly unpaved and are rarely clear of snow during the winter. With that in mind, it's recommended that you only visit the Westfjords during the summer, and even then, you may prefer to take a guided four-day tour through Iceland’s untouched nature.
Popular Tours to Isafjordur
Tours are convenient ways to experience the best of Isafjordur or immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surrounding areas in the Westfjords.
Self-Drive Tours
These tours allow you to explore Iceland's Ring Road and Westfjords at your own pace, offering flexibility and independence.
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13-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road with the Snaefellsnes Peninsula & the Westfjords
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10-Day Summer Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road with Waterfalls & Glaciers
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Epic 2-Week Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road & the Westfjords
Vacation Packages
Vacation packages bundle flights, accommodations, and activities for a hassle-free experience in the Westfjords.
Multi-Day Tours
Guided multi-day tours allow you to experience the Westfjords with knowledgeable guides and planned itineraries.
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Small-Group 3-Day Guided Westfjords Sightseeing Tour with Reykjavik Transfers
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6-Day Hiking Tour in Hornstrandir with Camping in the Remote Westfjords
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7-Day Iceland Motorcycle Adventure Tour in the Westfjords with Waterfalls & Glaciers
Day Tours
Shorter day tours are ideal for those with limited time, offering focused experiences like hiking and sightseeing in the Westfjords.
FAQs About Isafjordur
Here are the most frequently asked questions about Isafjordur in the Westfjords.
1. Is Isafjordur a good place to see the northern lights?
Yes! During the winter months (September–March), Isafjordur has little light pollution, making it a great location to view the northern lights on clear nights. Visit between September and March, check the aurora forecast, and head to a dark, open spot like the fjord’s edge or a nearby mountain road for the best views.
2. What’s the minimum number of days I should spend in Isafjordur?
A 2–3 day stay allows time to explore the town, take a boat trip, hike nearby trails, and experience local food. Longer stays are great for adventure travelers.
3. What are some of the must-try local dishes in Isafjordur?
Try plokkfiskur (traditional fish stew), harðfiskur (dried fish), fresh Arctic char, and Icelandic lamb. Kaffihús-style bakeries also serve delicious pastries.
4. Do I need to rent a car when I visit Isafjordur?
A car is highly recommended for exploring beyond the town, especially for visiting remote fjords, Hornstrandir, and Dynjandi waterfall. However, within Isafjordur, walking and biking work well.
5. Is Isafjordur a good place for budget travelers?
Yes, but Iceland is expensive overall. Budget options include guesthouses, camping, and cooking your own meals. Some activities, like hiking, are free!
6. What kind of clothing should I pack for Isafjordur?
Always bring layers, a waterproof jacket, sturdy shoes, gloves, and a hat. Even in summer, the weather can be unpredictable, and wind chill is common.
7. What are some hidden gems in Isafjordur that most tourists miss?
Isafjordur has a vibrant underground music scene, unique art installations, and small, family-run businesses that aren’t widely advertised.
Are You Ready To Experience Isafjordur's Charm?
Isafjordur is an idyllic destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and bird lovers alike. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and an array of outdoor activities, Isafjordur offers something for everyone.
Whether you're interested in hiking the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, spotting whales and dolphins in their natural environment, or simply enjoying the tranquility of Raudisandur Beach, Isafjordur has something to offer.
Book your trip to Isafjordur today to experience the magic of the Westfjords for yourself, or read more about what Iceland has to offer.
