Guest User: Overall, I was satisfied and the service was excellent. However, the price was too high, so I couldn't include the delicious breakfast, which was a major disappointment.
Hafnarstræti 87-89
From TRY 5,701
Akureyri Travel Guide 2026: Top Attractions, Local Food & Travel Tips | Trip.com
Akureyri
About Akureyri
7℃
7°Mostly clear
8° / 5°
- 11/7Tomorrow
Rain10° / 8° - 11/8SunShowers10° / 1°
- 11/9Mon
Snow flurries4° / -2° - 11/10Tue
Intermittent clouds3° / -2° - 11/11WedSnow flurries0° / -4°
- 11/12ThuSnow flurries1° / -2°
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Recommended stays in Akureyri
Discover the most popular places to stay in Akureyri, complete with recommendations from fellow travelers and special hotel offers
Anonymous User: Right in downtown Akureyri, with a Thai restaurant right next door and a partner dining spot nearby. The room is small but relatively clean. It's a self-check-in property; you'll receive an email with instructions a day or two before arrival.
Glerárgötu 3b
From TRY 3,076
Yueki: This was the best hotel of our Iceland trip, even better than the much more expensive Glacier Lagoon hot springs hotel. The mattress was comfortable, everything was clean and hygienic, and the shower was spacious. The facilities were new, and the breakfast was exquisite – they even had latte art, which is rare to find in Iceland, and it wasn't just from a machine or a pot! It's definitely the best choice when visiting Akureyri.
Hafnarstræti 80 - 82
From TRY 10,342
Wanman: I booked two rooms at this hotel because the booking showed a discount for booking two at a time, so I did. The first room staff arranged an accessible room for me, so the toilet is larger, the room can play a suitcase more than enough, the room does not have slippers or water (actually all in Europe), hygiene is no problem, but the second room I was more dissatisfied, the room is super small and roof It's a sloping roof, every time I get up I hit my head, the room doesn't even have a trash can, only the toilet has an extremely small trash can for throwing sanitary napkins, no hooks to hang clothes, I don't know if I booked a special room to arrange this room, if so, I'm not short of twenty yuan euros to book a little, (If this room is arranged because of the special price, I hope to list when booking) Because the booking did not show what room to stay, breakfast is quite good, staff service is no problem, there is free public parking outside the hotel, so I will book this hotel next time,
Hafnarstræti 67
From TRY 7,033
Anonymous User: The room was spacious, clean, and quiet. However, there was only one staff member at check-in, which made the process incredibly slow. I was quite dissatisfied with the staff's attitude – this is my eighth hotel in Iceland, and it's the first time I've felt this way. The hotel uses L'Occitane shower products, and perhaps they consider them very high-end and are afraid of people stealing them, but the bottle only had about 3% left, not enough for two people to use once. I ended up having to use my own products and didn't even bother trying to communicate with the hotel about it.
Þingvallastræti 23
From TRY 4,994
PennyTSY: Four-person room space is limited, suitcases can be opened outside the room, kitchen and toilet are outside the room but it does not affect There are heart-shaped traffic lights outside the house to take pictures. It is only 500m to walk to the church. We went to the citywalk in the morning and Akurey returned to the residence to pick up the car and leave. The snow is really beautiful. The whole stay experience is very satisfactory.
Þórunnarstræti 93
From TRY 3,934
J@yue: Very clean and spacious apartment. Well equipped kitchen and cosy apartment. Apartment can however get noisy from the streets below. Perhaps it was the weekend.
Skipagata 2
From TRY 8,710
Guest User: Upon arrival at the apartment, the reception is no longer staffed. On the door hangs a phone number where you can reach the apartment. The person on the other side of the phone first asks us why we do not use the code that we should have received by e-mail. Checked E-Mail Account - mentioned E-mail missing. According to the apartment, this would be sent two days in advance. Since we had not booked two days in advance - impossible. So now checked in by phone, everything ok. On to the first real point of criticism. When opening the room door, a strong smell hits you, which tries to cover the bathroom smell - long airing with a wide open window creates some relief. When checking the bed, one finds reddish, brownish stains on the bed cover - very unattractive. We were accommodated in room 25. The location is unfortunately unfavorable. The room gets the full street noises. Now to our biggest point of criticism: from about 00:30am until after 02:00am, an Asian tour group turned night into day! The hotel cannot be held responsible for human stupidity and antisocial behavior such as door slamming, loud talking and laughing in the corridors. Such behavior can unfortunately happen anytime and anywhere, but an entrance door that slams into the lock so loudly every single time that everyone in the hotel must hear it and you are always startled out of your sleep is simply unacceptable. Last but not least, the tour group had finished their party - thank goodness, and you thought peace would turn in, the small refrigerator inside the room started up. Humming loudly, it wouldn't let you fall asleep for another perceived eternity. All in all, this was unfortunately the worst and most nerve-wracking accommodation of our 15-day Iceland tour so far. We can not recommend this apartment, nor would we come back again.
Glerárgötu 3b
From TRY 4,378
Oksana: Хорошее местоположение, рядом парковка, есть завтрак. Рекомендую чтобы остановиться на ночь
Geislagata 7
From TRY 6,581
CobyNRG: My first time at a capsule anything tbh, and I couldn't have imagined a better experience. The couple running this establishment have created a unique atmosphere, such comfort, and a feeling of joy to get back to home away from home. I'm now in love with the capsule concept, kudos to Japan, and this amazing Icelandic couple. Thank you for a great stay, hope to see you in Portugal ;)
Hafnarstræti 99 101
From TRY 3,001
Must-try food in Akureyri
Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Akureyri dishes and foodie spots.
Western cuisine
Coffee shop
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Traveler photos and experiences
Everyone should visit Iceland at least once in their lifetime
❄️ Reykjavik & Golden Circle | A fantasy journey of volcanoes and glaciers · Airport pickup upon arrival, check in to a boutique hotel in Reykjavik · Visit Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Geysir Geothermal Area to experience the unique landscape where ice and fire meet · Coastal road trip, viewing volcanic lava fields and black sand beaches along the way, immersing yourself in Iceland's pristine scenery 🏔️ South Coast Glaciers & Waterfalls | Encountering natural wonders · Visit Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, feeling the unique scenery where ice, snow, and mist blend together · Hike the Falljökull glacier, explore blue ice caves with a guide, and admire the icy landscape · Take a boat in the evening to view glaciers along the Vík coast, with a chance to spot wild seabirds 🌌 Northern Lights & Hot Springs | A relaxing experience under the stars · Stay in Akureyri for two nights, wait at an aurora viewing spot, and have the chance to see the Northern Lights in the night sky · Head to the Mývatn geothermal area, experience natural hot springs, and feel the warmth of the north · Explore volcanic lava caves and geothermal landscapes to experience the primitive beauty of the Earth ✈️ A perfect return journey · Private transfer to the airport in Reykjavik, with full-service support and assistance with tax refunds for a stress-free return For those planning a trip to Iceland, would you prefer a self-drive loop or a worry-free guided small group tour?
Myvatn, Iceland, feels like walking on an alien planet
If there’s any place on Earth that resembles an alien world, it has to be Myvatn in northern Iceland. This area was once a training ground for Apollo 11 astronauts before their moon landing. Armstrong himself prepared for the moonwalk on this land. Step into this region, and the barren volcanic craters, bizarre lava formations, and steaming sulfur fields make you question whether you’re still on Earth or have landed on a distant planet. Myvatn was formed about 2,300 years ago by a massive volcanic eruption. The lake is shallow, averaging only 2.5 meters deep. But what truly captivates visitors is the “otherworldly” landscape around it: Dimmuborgir (“black castle”): Huge pillars and caves formed from solidified volcanic lava, resembling a fortress of dark elves. The North in Game of Thrones was filmed here. Hverfjall crater: A massive bowl-shaped extinct volcano that looks like a meteor crater from afar. Climb to the top for breathtaking views and howling winds. Hverir geothermal sulfur springs: The air is thick with sulfur, the ground is colorful, and bubbling mud pools make you feel like you’ve stepped onto Mars. Myvatn natural hot springs: Don’t just focus on the Blue Lagoon! These hot springs are called the “Blue Lagoon of northern Iceland.” With water temperatures of 36–40°C, soaking in the milky blue water while gazing at snowy mountains is the true way to experience Iceland. 📌 Tips Location: Northern Iceland, about 90 km from Akureyri Transport: Recommended to drive yourself, accessible via Route 1 ring road Best season: Summer (June–August) for midnight sun and lake hiking; winter (November–March) for northern lights Note: Mosquitoes are common in summer (Myvatn means “mosquito lake” in Icelandic), so bring insect repellent. Hiking boots are recommended At Myvatn, you stand at the boundary between Earth and the universe.
Please open the Iceland Autumn Ring Road Self-Driving Guide in full screen
Driving in Iceland has given shape to my dream. The Ring Road encircles Iceland, passing by the ocean and fields, glaciers and hot springs, volcanoes and deserts, waterfalls and tundra. It’s a grand adventure with powerful unfolding scenery, bringing forth beautiful words one after another: fearless, courage, determination, focus... 🗺️7-Day Detailed Self-Driving Itinerary Reykjavik → Golden Circle → Selfoss → Vik → Höfn → Egilsstaðir → Akureyri → Return 💙Day 1 Arrival in Reykjavik Rent a car at the airport → Head to the Blue Lagoon (about 20 minutes drive, remember to book in advance) → Stay near the Blue Lagoon, watch the Northern Lights at night 💙Day 2 Classic Golden Circle Self-Drive Tour About 200 km, passing through Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, stay in Selfoss or Hella area 💙Day 3 South Coast Waterfalls and Black Sand Beach About 150 km, passing Seljalandsfoss (famous for the waterfall you can walk behind), Skógafoss, Dyrhólaey Cape, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach (with huge basalt columns), stay in Vik town 💙Day 4 Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach Stay in Höfn town, about 270 km 💙Day 5 East Fjords → Northern city Akureyri 💙Day 6 Goðafoss Waterfall → Return to Reykjavik About 380 km, mostly highway, then west along the Ring Road, passing small sights like Hraunfossar Waterfalls, can stop anytime, passing through an underwater tunnel 💙Day 7 Explore and shop in Reykjavik city Buy souvenirs (wool sweaters, lava rock, Blue Lagoon face masks, etc.) Visit Hallgrímskirkja Church, then head to the airport for departure 🚗 Car rental advice: Choose an SUV with high clearance to handle complex road conditions, buy full insurance, don’t speed, always fill up when you see a gas station 🏨 Accommodation and dining Be sure to book accommodation in advance, Iceland is expensive. You can shop for groceries at Bonus or Krónan, or bring instant noodles and other food. Most accommodations have kitchens. 🧳 Clothing and gear Windproof and waterproof jackets and pants, waterproof hiking boots, swimsuit for the Blue Lagoon and various wild hot springs, camera, power bank, adapter, etc.
Luxury Custom Iceland, 1v1 Relaxed Ring Road Tour, A Bit Pricey but Worth It
Many guests who inquire ask, "When is the best time to go?" —If you’re not chasing the Northern Lights and want to experience the raw, vibrant life of Iceland, you must visit in summer! . 👉Double the fun compared to winter❗Drive around the island from June to September, 🏔 highlands open + comfortable temperatures + tundra greenery! The midnight sun stretches sunlight into 24 hours of golden threads, with flying bird waterfalls, fjord wilderness... it’s like a real-life Zelda game🔥 . 【🔵⭕ Iceland · Private Custom Tours】 ✅ Deep expertise in high-end customization, focusing on in-depth experiences and exploration ✅ One car per family, VIP service, tailor-made itineraries 💯 1v1 custom planner & 24h travel concierge for safety and peace of mind 💯 Chinese-speaking driver-guide & top-tier vehicle, making you feel at home even abroad 💯 Immersive experiences & star-rated accommodations, perfectly balancing travel relaxation! 💯 Highland & glacier adventures❄, glacier lagoon boat tours🚤, ♨ whale watching... all kinds of ultimate outdoor activities arranged! . ➊ 9-12 day summer ring road itinerary reference: Reykjavik ▶ Golden Circle ▶ Twin Waterfalls ▶ Vik Village ▶ Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon ▶ Diamond Beach ▶ East Fjord Towns ▶ Basalt Canyon ▶ Dettifoss ▶ Mývatn Hot Springs ▶ Godafoss ▶ Akureyri ▶ Northern Fjords ▶ Snæfellsnes Peninsula . ❷ Luxurious Hotels: 💎 — Sleep right at the Blue Lagoon! Private hot spring area, soaking in the hot springs with champagne and applying silica mud masks, life couldn’t be better 💎 Glacier Lagoon — Near the glacier lagoon and Diamond Beach! Outdoor hot springs facing wild glaciers and mountains, perfect for photos in any season! 💎 UMI Hotel — Walking distance to the black sand beach, floor-to-ceiling windows facing the wild ocean, solitude yet giving a sense of free spirit . ❸ Summer Must-Do❗❗ ✅ Highlands open: Landmannalaugar colorful rhyolite + Maelifell🏔 volcano, only passable in summer ✅ Ring road self-drive: Follow Highway 1, stopping freely along fjords, fishing villages, glaciers... ✅ Whale watching from Húsavík, peak season May-August, reportedly 90%+ success rate 🔸 Silfra fissure snorkeling — North America on your left, Eurasia on your right 🔸 Glacier hiking + amphibious boat rides on the glacier lagoon 🔸 Local geothermal hot springs, Blue Lagoon + Mývatn steamy waters, soak and beautify . ⭕ Must-visit spots ✔ Golden Circle | Þingvellir + Geysers + Gullfoss, see three wonders in one trip ✔ Black Sand Beach | White waves crashing the shore, feeling otherworldly at dusk ✔ Snæfellsnes | Kirkjufell, sea caves, basalt columns... a condensed essence of Icelandic landscapes ✔ Diamond Beach + Glacier Lagoon | Ice fragments scattered on black sand, sunlight is the best spotlight ✔ Basalt Canyon | Blue-green river flowing through geometric basalt pillars, incredibly stunning ✔ Citywalk | Akureyri & Reykjavik, experience the slow pace of Nordic small towns ✔ Waterfall check-ins | Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Dettifoss, Godafoss... . 🔜 Inquiry box 💬 Tap me with “time + number of people” to learn detailed itinerary planning & pricing
Iceland is definitely not supported by just one or two attractions
This list of "103 Must-Visit Attractions in Iceland" is organized by region. It covers Iceland's most iconic classic spots across the island, including waterfalls, glacial lakes, volcanic landscapes, fjord towns, geothermal areas, ancient towns, and more: 【South】 1: Seljalandsfoss Waterfall 2: Skógafoss Waterfall 3: Gljúfrabúi Hidden Waterfall 4: Kvernufoss Waterfall 5: Seljavallalaug Valley Pool 6: Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck 7: Dyrhólaey Cape 8: Black Sand Beach 9: Vík Village 10: Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon 11: Skaftafell National Nature Reserve 12: Svartifoss Black Waterfall 13: Svínafellsjökull Glacier 14: Sólheimajökull Glacier 15: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 16: Diamond Beach 17: Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon 18: Hofskirkja Turf Church 19: Dverghamrar Basalt Columns 20: Stjórnarfoss Waterfall 21: Foss á Síðu Waterfall 22: Katla Ice Cave 23: Lómagnúpur Cliff 24: Fossálar Waterfall 25: Westman Islands 【Golden Circle】 26: Þingvellir National Park 27: Geysir Geothermal Area 28: Strokkur Geyser 29: Gullfoss Golden Waterfall 30: Kerið Volcanic Crater Lake 31: Secret Lagoon Hot Spring 32: Hrunalaug Hot Spring 33: Faxi Waterfall 【Snæfellsnes Peninsula】 34: Kirkjufell Mountain 35: Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall 36: Coastal Village 37: Sea Stacks 38: Djúpalónssandur Black Sand Beach 39: Snæfellsjökull Glacier Volcano 40: Black Church 41: Rauðfeldsgjá Canyon 42: Seal Beach 43: Berserkjahraun Lava Field 44: Basalt Column Wall 45: Svörtuloft Lighthouse 46: Ólafsvík Town 【West】 47: Hraunfossar Lava Waterfalls 48: Barnafoss Waterfall 49: Deildartunguhver Geothermal Spring 50: Reykholt 【Westfjords】 51: Ísafjörður 52: Þingeyri Town 53: Dynjandi Waterfall 54: Puffin Cliffs 55: Rauðisandur Red Sand Beach 56: Bolungarvík Fishing Village 57: Hornstrandir Nature Reserve 58: Hólmavík Witchcraft Museum 59: Drangsnes Hot Springs 【North】 60: Akureyri 61: Goðafoss Waterfall 62: Dettifoss Waterfall 63: Selfoss Waterfall 64: Mývatn 65: Húsavík 66: Ásbyrgi Horseshoe Canyon 67: Krafla Volcano 68: Grjótagjá Cave Hot Spring 69: Skútustaðir Pseudocraters 70: Aldeyjarfoss Waterfall 71: Hvitserkur Sea Stack 72: Víðimýrarkirkja Turf Church 73: Siglufjörður Herring Town 【East】 74: Seyðisfjörður Colorful Town 75: Egilsstaðir Eastern Town 76: Hengifoss Waterfall 77: Petra’s Stone Collection Museum 78: Hallormsstaðaskógur Forest 79: Vök Baths Hot Springs 80: Borgarfjörður Eystri Elf Fjord 81: Stórurð Giant Boulder Valley 82: Fáskrúðsfjörður French Town 83: Berufjörður Fjord 84: Eskifjörður Harbor Town 【Highlands / Interior】 85: Landmannalaugar Colorful Mountains 86: Laki Volcanic Fissure 87: Askja Caldera 88: Kerlingarfjöll Mountains 89: Þórsmörk Valley 90: Hveravellir Geothermal Area 91: Sprengisandur Road 92: Háifoss Waterfall 93: Gjáin Green Valley 94: Þakgil Valley 【Reykjavík & Reykjanes Peninsula】 95: Reykjavík 96: Hallgrímskirkja Church 97: Harpa Concert Hall 98: Sun Voyager 99: Blue Lagoon Hot Spring 100: Reykjanesviti Lighthouse 101: Bridge Between Continents 102: Gunnuhver Geothermal Area 103: Kleifarvatn Volcanic Lake
National Geographic did not deceive me, ice and fire are intertwined into a song here.
Iceland, known as the "Land of Ice and Fire", is famous for its unique natural landscape and extreme weather. It is a dream travel destination for many explorers and nature lovers. ❗️❗️❗️Today I would like to recommend a 10-day self-driving tour around Iceland. This is the most classic way to travel in Iceland, along Iceland's Ring Road No. 1. On this tour, you can see various natural wonders such as waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, hot springs, black sand beaches and icy lakes. 🎈🎈🎈Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik Main attractions: ✔️Halgrímskirkja Cathedral: A landmark building in Reykjavik, you can overlook the whole city from the top. ✔️Sun Voyager Statue: An artistic sculpture by the sea, symbolizing exploration and discovery. ✔️Reykjavik Old Harbor: There are many restaurants and cafes, where you can choose to enjoy Icelandic seafood dinner in the evening. 👍👍👍Suggested activities: Explore Iceland’s museums and art exhibitions in the city center, and relax in a hot spring at night, such as the ✔️Blue Lagoon near Reykjavik, a famous geothermal hot spring resort. 🎈🎈🎈Day 2: Golden Circle Tour Main attractions: ✔️Thingvellir National Park: Located at the junction of the Eurasian Plate and the American Plate, it is the birthplace of the Icelandic Parliament in history. ✔️Geysir: One of Iceland's famous geysers, it can erupt at regular intervals. ✔️Golden Falls: One of the most magnificent waterfalls in Iceland, it is majestic and magnificent. 👍👍👍Suggested activities: The attractions in the Golden Circle are relatively close, making them suitable for a day trip. 🎈🎈🎈Day 3: Exploring the South Coast Main attractions: ✔️Seljalandsfoss: You can walk behind the waterfall and feel the amazing experience of water cascading down from your head. ✔️Skogafoss: One of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls, the spectacular water curtain is perfect for photography. ✔️Sólheimajür: You can take part in glacier hiking. 👍👍👍Suggested activities: The trails around the waterfall are suitable for hiking and are suitable for outdoor sports enthusiasts. 🎈🎈🎈Day 4: Vik Town and Black Sand Beach Main attractions: ✔️Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: a world-famous black sand beach, with a coastline formed by volcanic rubble, and spectacular basalt columns and waves are highlights. ✔️Cape Dyrholaey: Overlooking the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, you can also see puffins in winter. 👍👍👍Suggested activities: The waves here are very strong and not suitable for swimming, but bird watching and photography are possible. 🎈🎈🎈Day 5: Glacier Lake and Diamond Beach Main attractions: ✔️Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: A lake formed by glacial meltwater, with huge ice blocks floating on it, very shocking. ✔️Diamond Beach: Ice blocks from the glacial lake are washed onto the beach, sparkling in the sun, as charming as diamonds. 👍👍👍Suggested activities: You can choose to take a boat tour of the glacial lake and observe ice and seals up close. 🎈🎈🎈Day 6: Eastfjords Main attractions: ✔️Hofn: The main city in the Eastfjords region, famous for its lobsters. ✔️East Fjords: The mountains here are towering, suitable for road trips and sightseeing photography. 👍👍👍Suggested activities: Explore the small villages in the East Fjords and enjoy the peaceful bay scenery. 🎈🎈🎈Day 7: Lake Myvatn and volcanic landforms Main attractions: ✔️Lake Myvatn: There are abundant volcanic activity relics around the lake, including lava landforms and geothermal areas. ✔️Namaferra Geothermal Area: An active geothermal area with a magical smell of steam and sulfur. 👍👍👍Suggested activities: Relax in the ✔️ natural hot springs of Lake Myvatn and admire the unique landforms around. 🎈🎈🎈Day 8: Akureyri and Whale Watching Main attractions: ✔️Akureyri: Iceland's second largest city, with a beautiful harbor and unique Nordic style. ✔️Husavik: Known as the "Whale Capital", you can take part in whale watching tours. 👍👍👍Recommended activities: Take part in whale watching in Husavik. Summer is the best season with a chance to see blue whales and humpback whales. 🎈🎈🎈Day 9: Natural scenery in the west Main attractions: ✔️Snaefellsnes Peninsula: The Snæfellsnes volcano here is known as the most mysterious place in Iceland, with picturesque scenery. ✔️Kirkjufell: One of Iceland’s most famous mountains, it appeared in Game of Thrones. 👍👍👍Suggested activities: There are many hiking routes on the peninsula with beautiful scenery, suitable for nature lovers. 🎈🎈🎈Day 10: Return to Reykjavik and Relax 👍👍👍Activity suggestions: If you still have time at the end of your trip, you can choose to go shopping in Reykjavik, visit museums, or return to the Blue Lagoon to relax and end your Iceland tour. ❣️❣️❣️Accommodation recommendations It is recommended to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (June to August) or during the winter viewing period for the aurora. 🔆🔆🔆Reykjavik: Center Hotels, Canopy by Hilton 🔆🔆🔆🔆South Coast: Hotel Skogafoss (near the waterfall), Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon (near the glacial lake) 🔆🔆🔆Lake Myvatn area: Hotel Laxá, Vogafjós Guesthouse 🔆🔆🔆Akureyri: Hotel Akureyri, Icelandair Hotel Akureyri ❗️❗️❗️Tips for traveling in Iceland❗️❗️❗️ ⭕The weather in Iceland changes rapidly. Please prepare warm, windproof and waterproof clothing before departure. ⭕ Be careful when driving in winter. The icy and snowy roads are slippery. It is recommended to rent a four-wheel drive vehicle and pay attention to real-time road conditions and weather forecasts. ⭕ Prices in Iceland are relatively high, so it is recommended that you plan your budget reasonably and book accommodation and car rental in advance. ⭕Watching the aurora in winter requires patience and good luck. It is recommended to avoid light-polluted areas and use the Aurora Forecast App. In summer, you can experience midnight sun. ⭕Iceland’s natural environment is fragile. It is recommended not to step on the tundra or litter when traveling.
The second largest city in Iceland, small and exquisite
beautiful as a fairy tale world, even the zebra crossings are designed with great aesthetics. Iceland is famous for its mysterious and strange natural scenery, like an alien planet. However, besides the capital Reykjavik, other cities in this country seem to be less well-known. Even the second largest city in Iceland, Akureyri, is little known to Chinese tourists. Located in the north of Iceland, Akureyri is like a "Shangri-La" on the edge of the Arctic Circle. Akureyri is the political, economic, and cultural center of northern Iceland, known as the "capital of the north". Although it sounds like a big city, Akureyri is just a "miniature town" with a population of only 20,000, more like an isolated small town, with a quiet environment and exquisite lifestyle far away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Located at the end of the Eyjafjörður fjord in the northernmost part of Iceland, Akureyri is backed by mountains and faces a lake, boasting a rich and colorful natural landscape, and is known as the "Athens of the North" in Iceland. Although it does not have the long and rich historical relics of Athens, Greece, Akureyri, with its vast and desolate mountain and water scenery, fully displays the cultural charm of Iceland. The city of Akureyri has rich vegetation, with lush trees, green grass, birds singing and flowers fragrant. It even has the world's northernmost botanical garden, which contains more than 2,000 plant species. It is known as the "garden city on the edge of the Arctic Circle" and forms a contrast with the sparse vegetation in many parts of Iceland. Akureyri is very small in scale, even smaller than a small town in China, but it is the main trading center in northern Iceland, and the largest port in the north is also located here. The port was built in the late 19th century. Because Akureyri is located at the position where the bay extends into the inland, steep mountains on both sides form a natural protective barrier, creating a unique natural harbor for Akureyri. Although the urban population is not large, the building area of Acreliri is considerable, equivalent to a medium-sized city with a population of 200,000. There are also many cultural, educational, and public resources, including modern libraries, museums, sports centers, youth centers, theaters, and various schools. There is also an airport in the suburbs, making it a highly modern city. Strolling in Aker Brygge, I am amazed by the exquisite streets and delicate lifestyle here. The houses have various shapes, colorful and elegant. It is said that many wealthy businessmen from Nordic countries have built many villas here. Walking on the street, you may meet a billionaire face to face. The houses are full of design sense, and the small town exudes a strong sense of design and romantic atmosphere, fully reflecting people's pursuit of beauty. The exquisite houses of every household, the humanized public facilities on the street, and even the zebra crossings are painted with "dalmatian" patterns, which are refreshing. Roaming in Akureyri, Hafnarst, the main commercial street in the city center, is the liveliest place in the city. The street is quiet and exquisite, showing traditional features without losing modern atmosphere. Supermarkets, shops, bookstores, restaurants, cafes, clothing stores, etc. are mixed and distributed everywhere, showing the high and cold Nordic style. People and tourists can enjoy leisure time here to the fullest. Akureyri Cathedral is a landmark building in the city, designed by architect Gudjon Samuelsson, who also designed the Reykjavik Cathedral. The architectural style is still full of the beauty of Nordic minimalism, with a strong sense of fashion and modernity. Interestingly, this type of church design is very rare in Europe, but in Iceland, it fully embodies the imagination and creativity of the locals, showing that beneath their cool exterior lies a wild and unrestrained heart.
Is This for Real? A Stunning Lake Inside an Icelandic Volcano 🌋💧
Okay, wait—did you know there’s actually a lake inside a volcano in Iceland?! It sounds sooo unreal but trust me, it’s 100% legit and absolutely mind-blowing 🤯. Welcome to Víti Crater Lake, tucked away in the Krafla volcanic caldera in North Iceland. Just imagine: shimmering blue water chilling right inside a fiery volcano. Wild, right? The whole area looks straight out of a fantasy movie! You can walk around the rim and snap those iconic shots for your feed 📸. The vibes are totally serene, but you’ll feel like a real-life adventurer (bonus points if there’s a little mist). How to get there? Víti Crater is just about 2 hours’ drive from Akureyri, the “Capital of the North.” The crater’s open all year but looks especially magical in summer when the lake is a vibrant teal and the volcanic landscape is super Insta-worthy. Address: Krafla, 660 Reykjahlíð, Iceland. No entry fee, and nature never runs out of opening hours—so visit anytime! Extra tip: Make sure to check out more volcanic wonders in the Krafla area, and don’t forget to pack a jacket—it gets chilly even in summer! Looking for epic stays and easy booking? Head over to trip.com for the best Iceland trip deals. This spot is an absolute must-see!
Akureyri Getaway: 2 Days of Chill Vibes & Cozy Magic in Iceland 🇮🇸
Spent two dreamy days soaking up the chill vibes in Akureyri, Iceland’s most wholesome town. This little gem is packed with adorable details and a whole lot of heart! ❤️ 🏡 Where We Stayed: Heiðin Homes Villas We stayed at Heiðin Homes Villas (address: Heiðin, 601 Akureyri, Iceland), a super-modern, super-spacious villa—totally goals for families or your entire friend group. Imagine three bathrooms (so no fighting for shower time!), a fully equipped kitchen to whip up midnight snacks, and *the* private hot tub of your dreams. Trust me, hot tubbing under the Icelandic sky after exploring all day = best. feeling. ever. 😂🛁 Check-in is usually from 3:00pm, check-out by 11:00am. ❤️ Cozy Feels in Town The heart-shaped red traffic lights in Akureyri will have you stopping just to admire them! And if you visit in October, look out for pink ribbons on the lighthouse, supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It’s seriously the cutest, most uplifting town ever—love and good vibes everywhere. 🎀💗 🍦 Brynja: The OG Icelandic Ice Cream Spot Get your sweet tooth fix at Brynja (address: Aðalstræti 3, 600 Akureyri). This legendary ice cream shop is open daily from around 11:00am to 10:00pm (sometimes later in summer). Honestly, grabbing a cone here and strolling through town is a *must-do*—it’s sooo good and feels like a warm hug for your taste buds! 😋 The vibe for our whole trip? No rush, just pure relaxation. Cozy villa mornings, epic hot tub nights, exploring Akureyri’s charming corners, and topping it all off with a creamy Brynja cone. Proof that sometimes, the simplest adventures make the most unforgettable memories. ❤️✨ #travel #iceland #akureyri
Iceland — A Road Trip Through Fire, Ice & Everything In Between ❄️🌋
Iceland feels like another planet — black sand beaches, roaring waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, geysers and endless roads cutting through dramatic landscapes. Some places worth adding to your journey: 🌊 Reynisfjara — iconic black sand and powerful Atlantic waves 💦 Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss — two of Iceland’s most unforgettable waterfalls 🧊 Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon — floating icebergs surrounded by surreal scenery 💎 Diamond Beach — crystal-like ice scattered across black sand 🌋 Kerið Crater — a colourful volcanic crater lake ♨️ Golden Circle — Þingvellir, Geysir and Gullfoss 🏔️ Kirkjufell — one of Iceland’s most photographed mountains ✨ Northern Lights — a magical bonus if the conditions are right For a 10D9N Ring Road adventure: Day 1: Reykjavík Day 2: Golden Circle Day 3: South Coast → Vík Day 4: Skaftafell → Jökulsárlón → Diamond Beach Day 5: Eastfjords → Egilsstaðir Day 6: Lake Mývatn Day 7: Goðafoss → Akureyri Day 8: Snæfellsnes Peninsula → Kirkjufell Day 9: Return to Reykjavík → geothermal lagoon Day 10: Departure Don’t leave without trying Icelandic lamb soup, Arctic char, fish stew, skyr and the famous Icelandic hot dog. 🇮🇸 Iceland isn’t just somewhere you visit — it’s the kind of journey where every turn in the road feels like a new world. ✨ #Iceland #IcelandRoadTrip #RingRoad #IcelandTravel #GoldenCircle #Jokulsarlon #Reynisfjara #NorthernLights #ExploreIceland #TravelInspiration
What people are saying about Akureyri
Route 1
Highway 1 is a must-go road to Iceland. The road is mostly covered with grasslands. The scenery is not special, but it is very interesting to see such a vibrant scene at the northern end of the earth.
东张西望望东西Akureyri church
阿克雷里是冰岛的第二大城市，但看上去像是一个小镇。市中心的大教堂也不大，不过教堂的建筑风格很有冰岛的特色，位于一个小山坡上，景色也不错。
sculptorAkureyri Botanical Garden
One of the northernmost botanical gardens in the world, the garden is home to more than 2,000 species of flowers, plants and trees transplanted from all over Iceland and other countries. However, this is also the smallest botanical garden I have ever seen. If there were no signs, I would probably think it was just a street garden. To be honest, it doesn't even feel as big as the city parks in my great city, not to mention the country parks. It's not at the same level as the botanical gardens we understand. Of course, the good thing is that it is open to the public free of charge. If you live nearby, you can take a stroll around before or after dinner. It's still pretty good.
D了个YGoðafoss Waterfall
The waterfall is located on Iceland's Highway 1. The surrounding area is covered with green grass in summer and snow in winter. The scenery is charming and fascinating. The waterfall is shaped like a hoof and the water falls straight down!
jkidd28Blue Lagoon
We had a wonderful experience at the Blue Lagoon. The warm water and beautiful surroundings made it a memorable part of our Iceland trip. Booking through Trip.com was easy, and the price was reasonable. I would highly recommend it!
Esther KLEAkureyri FAQ
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