Top 10 Best Things to Do in Akureyri, Iceland

Top 10 Best Things to Do in Akureyri, Iceland 

No visit to Iceland is complete without heading north to Akureyri and exploring everything the town and surrounding area has to offer. Situated a 5-hour drive from Reykjavík, you’ll want to pack your visit with activities to make your journey worthwhile. Here are just a few of the best things to do in Akureyri to choose from. 

1. Explore The Adventure Garden

Are you visiting Iceland with your children? They’re sure to be fascinated by the fairytale sculptures on display at The Adventure Garden in Akureyri. This family-friendly activity is a great way to experience Icelandic folklore and get a taste of the country’s literature. 

The Adventure Garden is a private gallery created in a garden next to the home of Hreinn Halldórsson, the man behind these fascinating sculptures. Admission is free and there is lots of fun to be had when discovering the meaning behind each of the pieces. 

2. Visit Safnasafnið Museum

Also known as The Icelandic Folk and Outsider Art Museum, Safnasafnið houses a collection of exhibitions showcasing artwork from a variety of talented creatives. Though much of what you will see here is outside of the mainstream, and unlike what you may find in other museums in Iceland, everything on show deserves to be celebrated.

The exhibitions change annually and each year the museum collaborates with a local primary or nursery school to stimulate artistic interests in young children. Opening hours are limited to the summer months of May to September. 

3. Admire Akureyri Church

Widely known as the symbol of Akureyri, this Lutheran church is located just above the town centre. Consecrated in 1940 and designed by Gudjon Samuelsson, Akureyri Church features a stained glass window that originated in England, a large pipe organ and a model ship that’s suspended from the ceiling. 

4. Go Whale Watching

Beaten only by Husavik, Akureyri is one of the most popular places in Iceland to go whale-watching. A boat tour from the floating pier offers the chance to spot humpback whales, minke whales, pilot whales and if you’re lucky, blue whales and orcas! 

The rich sea life in the fjord provides a nutrient-rich diet for the whales who come here to feed. Having said that, it is important to remember that whale sightings are never guaranteed and that the types of whales to look for vary depending on the time of year of your visit.

5. Immerse Yourself In Icelandic Swimming Culture 

There’s no greater authentic Icelandic experience than a soak in a geothermal pool, and Akureyri Thermal Pool has something for everyone. From outdoor pools for lane swimming and relaxing warm hot tubs to a splash pool and water slides, this is a great way to spend a few hours in both the summer and winter seasons. 

Bathing suits and towels can be hired from the pool and there are digital lockers to safely store your belongings while you enjoy the facilities. 

6. Ski or Mountain Bike at Hlíðarfjall Ski Resort

Located just 5 km from the town, Hlíðarfjall offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and mountain biking in the summer. 

Skiing

With 7 ski lifts, 26 marked pistes and a ski area with a vertical drop of 455 metres, Hlíðarfjall is a popular location for skiing in Iceland. Equipped with floodlights, shortened daytime hours will not impact your experience as it is also possible to enjoy night skiing here.

Mountain Biking

Hlíðarfjall is also home to a bike park, which is best appreciated during the summer months when there is no snow on the trails. Bikes can be hired from the park and if you feel more comfortable with a professional, bike tours are available.

7. Stroll Through Akureyri Town

Akureyri isn’t known as the “Capital of the North” without good reason, it is the second largest city outside of the capital and home to a variety of fascinatingly beautiful buildings. The nearby mountains and fjord also make for an impressive view as you stroll the streets of this old trading station. 

8. Chase the Northern Lights

If you’re searching for natural phenomena in Iceland, you’ll be pleased to discover that the flickering Aurora Borealis can frequently be seen dancing above the skies in Akureyri during the height of winter. 

Seeing the Northern Lights is never a certainty, and there are a variety of conditions that need to be in your favour such as clear skies with good visibility and suitable solar activity.

9. Feel the Power of Goðafoss Waterfall

Just a short drive from Akureyri is the spectacular Goðafoss Waterfall, which translates to the “Waterfall of the Gods”. The water, which comes from the Skjálfandafljót River, falls from an impressive height of 12 metres. You can park on either side of the waterfall and follow the short trails up to the falls. Both sides offer excellent views and you can visit year-round, although care should be taken in winter when the paths can be slippery. 

10. Soak in a Beer Bath

There aren’t many places you can relax and unwind in a bath full of beer, but Bjórböðin, around a 30-minute drive from Akureyri, offers exactly that! The beer used in the baths is extremely early on in the fermentation process, meaning there is no alcohol in the baths, but you’ll have the chance to pull a pint from a draught next to your tub should you wish to do so. 

Driving from Reykjavik to Akureyri

To help you kickstart your road trip planning, we’ve got you covered! One of the most popular routes for adventurers of all ages is the drive between Reykjavik and Akureyri. Under good weather conditions, the journey takes just 4 to 5 hours, giving you plenty of time to stop and explore along the way. Keep reading for our ultimate guide to the best things to do and see on the road from Reykjavik to Akureyri.

Where to Stay Between Akureyri and Reykjavik

Choosing where to stay during your journey between Akureyri and Reykjavik will largely depend on your itinerary and the sights you plan to visit along the way. This stretch of road offers plenty of opportunities to explore Iceland's diverse landscapes, so it’s worth planning your route carefully to make the most of your trip.

If you're looking for places to stay, popular options include Staður, Borðeyri, and Hvammstangi. These charming towns are roughly halfway between Akureyri and Reykjavik, making them convenient spots for an overnight stop. Not only do they break up the long drive, but they also provide a chance to experience local Icelandic culture and scenery.

Things to Do Between Reykjavik and Akureyri

While traveling between these two major destinations, there are plenty of things to do between Reykjavik and Akureyri. You can explore Hvítserkur, a striking rock formation off the Vatnsnes Peninsula, or visit the Seal Center in Hvammstangi to learn about Iceland's fascinating marine life. For history lovers, the Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft Museum in Hólmavík offers a unique glimpse into Iceland’s folklore.

Things to See Between Reykjavik and Akureyri

There are countless things to see between Reykjavik and Akureyri, including the stunning Kolugljúfur Canyon near Hvammstangi. Here, you’ll find breathtaking waterfalls surrounded by dramatic cliffs. The Reykjadalur hot springs offer another highlight, providing a relaxing spot to soak in warm, geothermal waters while enjoying the surrounding nature.

Whether you're planning your stops based on accommodation or attractions, the journey between Akureyri and Reykjavik is filled with incredible sights and memorable experiences. Take the time to explore these hidden gems and create a travel plan that suits your pace and interests.

Ready to plan your adventure in Akureyri? You’ll need a reliable car to get you there. Book your hire car today.

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