Akureyri travel guide

Lutheran Church of Akureyri during golden hour

Introduction to Akureyri

Home to more than 18.9 thousand people and the magnificent Akureyrarkirkja, Hof Cultural and Conference Centre, and Icelandic Aviation Museum, Akureyri is an adventure awaiting you. With a unique historical background and an incredible variety of natural and architectural beauty, Akureyri is a highlight in Iceland. This town in Iceland is a travel destination with plenty to offer curious travelers.

Explore this culturally-rich town and easily plan your trip to Iceland. Welcome to Guide to Europe’s comprehensive Akureyri travel guide.

Easily accessible from Akureyri airport, Akureyri is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Iceland any time of the year.

You'll learn more fascinating facts about Akureyri as you explore this spectacular town.

Traveling to Akureyri is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the town of Akureyri below!

History of Akureyri

The history of Akureyri, a charming town nestled in Northern Iceland, is saturated with fascinating tales and events.

Established in the 9th century by Norse settlers, Akureyri has evolved from a remote fishing village into Iceland's second largest urban area.

The town's growth was spurred in the 19th century when it became a key trading post for the surrounding agricultural region. Akureyri's significance grew with the construction of its harbor, which transformed it into a vital maritime and fishing center.

During World War II, Akureyri served as an important base for Allied forces, further boosting its economic and strategic importance.

Today, Akureyri is renowned not just for its rich history, but also for its stunning landscapes, cultural attractions, and as a gateway to the natural wonders of Northern Iceland.

Top services in Akureyri

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Akureyri, Iceland. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 394 airlines that fly to Iceland. Browse the 72 top-rated tours available to you in Akureyri. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Akureyri.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Akureyri, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Akureyri on your vacation in Iceland.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Akureyri from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the town of Akureyri!

Best time to visit Akureyri

The best time to explore Akureyri, the 'Capital of North Iceland', largely depends on your interests. For winter sport enthusiasts, the period from December to April is perfect, when the area is blanketed in snow, offering excellent skiing conditions. However, the winter months are also the prime time for viewing the Northern Lights, a spectacle not to be missed. If you're interested in wildlife, particularly whale watching, the summer months from June to August provide the best opportunities. During this time, the weather is generally milder and the days are incredibly long due to the midnight sun, making it an excellent time for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the area. Bear in mind that summer is the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and book accommodations in advance. During the shoulder seasons, in May and September, you can enjoy fewer crowds, slightly lower prices, and still have a good chance of spotting whales. Regardless of when you choose to visit, Akureyri's unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness makes it a compelling destination year-round.

Weather in Akureyri

Akureyri, located in northern Iceland, experiences a subarctic climate characterized by long, cold winters and short, cool summers. The average temperature ranges from -2.5°C in winter (December to March) to 11.7°C in summer (June to August). The city receives most of its precipitation in the form of snow during the winter months, while rainfall is more common in the summer. The lowest temperatures can drop to -15°C while the summer can occasionally see temperatures rise to 20°C.

Although Akureyri is one of the warmer places in Iceland due to its sheltered location, the weather can change rapidly, so it's essential for travelers to be prepared for sudden shifts in temperature and conditions. The city’s northern location also results in extended daylight hours during summer and long nights in winter, which can affect your travel plans. The city is also subject to occasional strong winds, particularly in the winter months, which can cause disruptions to travel and outdoor activities.

Local tip for visiting Akureyri

When visiting Akureyri, the insider tip is to explore the city by foot or bike, rather than using public transportation or a car. Akureyri is a compact city with a population of less than 20,000 people, so walking or cycling allows you to explore the city at a slower pace and enjoy its natural beauty. There are numerous bike rental shops in the city, and most places of interest are within a 30-minute walk from each other. Additionally, making use of the city's pedestrian and cycle-friendly infrastructure gives you the opportunity to interact with locals and experience the city from an insider's perspective. This way of exploring Akureyri is a local tip that is not commonly known to tourists, but can significantly enhance your travel experience.

Learn more about Iceland

There are many reasons to visit the town of Akureyri, but a trip to Iceland needs no explanation.

Exploring Iceland, which spans 103,004 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Iceland offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Akureyrarkirkja, Hof Cultural and Conference Centre, and the Icelandic Aviation Museum, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Iceland.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Iceland.

What to see in Akureyri

Photo of Akureyri, Iceland by Arvid Olson

Akureyri has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the town.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the town of Akureyri.

Top attractions in Akureyri

Home to plenty of top attractions, Akureyri is more than just a wonderful town in Iceland. Akureyri is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Iceland.

One fascinating sight in Akureyri is the unforgettable Akureyrarkirkja. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the town, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Akureyri. This remarkable attraction is located at við Eyrarlandsveg 600, 600 Akureyri, Iceland and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 10:00-18:00.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Iceland, check out our list of top attractions in Akureyri below. Discover the best places to visit in Akureyri, including the fascinating Akureyrarkirkja, Hof Cultural and Conference Centre, and Icelandic Aviation Museum.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Akureyri.

Things to do in Akureyri

Photo of Akureyri Iceland, by Arvid Olson-akureyri

Enrich your travel experience in Akureyri by joining tours and activities. Akureyri offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the town.

Discover the most popular experiences in Akureyri below.

Most popular experiences in Akureyri

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the town of Akureyri.

Akureyri offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Ports of Call Tours, Bus Tours, and Guided Day Trips are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in Iceland.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Akureyri by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Akureyri

Travelers in Akureyri can choose from 15 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. If you're curious about what the most frequently recommended experiences in the city are, Shore Excursions is the answer.

The most popular tour in Akureyri is the fantastic Husky Petting and Pictures in Akureyri (private). By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Akureyri one of the best travel destinations in Iceland.

Akureyri also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable 1-Hour Siglufjörður Stroll is the cheapest tour in the town, and is a popular Historical Tour. This experience costs around 21 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Akureyri. This Historical Tour is available in 1 language: English. Around 3 travelers have given this activity an average rating of 5 stars out of 5.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Akureyri and book a top-rated tour in the town. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Akureyri below.

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Search for things to do in Akureyri

Discover the best things to do in Akureyri. Choose from 72 fantastic tours and activities available in the town.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Akureyri. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Akureyri

The culinary landscape of Akureyri, Iceland's second-largest city, is as rich and diverse as its stunning natural environment. It's a paradise for food lovers where you can find everything from traditional Icelandic cuisine to international delicacies. One of the best places to eat in Akureyri is the city's downtown area, which offers a wide range of dining options, from street food vendors to high-end restaurants. Here, you can savor mouth-watering traditional dishes like Plokkfiskur, a hearty fish stew, or try Hangikjöt, smoked lamb that's a staple of Icelandic cuisine. For a more upscale dining experience, visit the renowned restaurant Strikið, which offers a panoramic view of the city while serving delectable local produce. Also worth mentioning is the Bryggjan, known for its delicious seafood and pizza. For those who have a sweet tooth, Akureyri's bakeries serve a variety of pastries, including kleinur, a traditional Icelandic doughnut. As Akureyri is known for its dairy products, don't miss out on tasting the locally produced ice cream, considered among the best in Iceland. Remember to pair your meal with a local craft beer or a glass of Brennivín, a unique Icelandic spirit.

Nightlife in Akureyri

Akureyri, the 'Capital of North Iceland,' offers a vibrant nightlife scene that is as enchanting as its natural beauty. The city's night culture is an amalgamation of laid-back pub vibes, lively parties, and sophisticated wine tastings. The Hafnarstraeti district is often regarded as the best area for bars in Akureyri, with a number of pubs and clubs that cater to diverse tastes. Among the must-visit establishments is the Akureyri Backpackers, a popular haunt for locals and tourists alike, known for its live music and chilled beer.

Græni hatturinn, another standout venue, is a concert hall that hosts performances by both local and international artists. For those who prefer a more tranquil setting, Bláa Kannan Café serves a variety of wines in a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. Despite the city's relatively small size, the nightlife in Akureyri runs late into the night, especially during the summer when the sun barely sets. Whether you're a party animal, a music enthusiast, or a wine connoisseur, Akureyri's nightlife scene promises an unforgettable experience.

Best shopping in Akureyri

Akureyri, the 'Capital of the North', is not just a hub for natural attractions but also a vibrant shopping destination. The city centre is the best place to go shopping in Akureyri, with its charming boutiques and stores showcasing Icelandic craftsmanship, from hand-knitted lopapeysa sweaters to unique volcanic stone jewelry.

Hafnarstraeti, the main shopping street, is dotted with fashion boutiques that blend Nordic minimalism with cutting-edge style, making it a must-visit for fashion enthusiasts. For those interested in local arts and crafts, the Akureyri Art and Design market held every summer is not to be missed.

For a more modern shopping experience, visit Glerártorg, the largest shopping mall in North Iceland, housing a variety of stores and dining options. Don't forget to check out the local supermarkets for Icelandic delicacies like dried fish and Brennivín schnapps. Remember, the VAT (value-added tax) in Iceland is 24%, but tourists can get a tax-free refund for purchases over 6000 ISK at the airport upon departure. Happy shopping in Akureyri!

Best Free Things to Do in Akureyri

Nestled in the north of Iceland, Akureyri, the 'Capital of North Iceland', brims with free experiences that will leave you enchanted. First up on our list of best free things to do in Akureyri is exploring the Akureyri Botanical Garden, an oasis boasting a diverse array of both native and foreign flora. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. Next, visit the awe-inspiring Akureyri Church, a Lutheran church whose striking architecture is matched by its sweeping views over the town. Immerse yourself in local history by walking through the old town, where charming houses tell tales of yesteryears. For nature lovers, the Kjarnaskógur Forest offers various walking paths, playgrounds, and barbecue facilities. If you're visiting in winter, have some fun in the snow at the free sledding hills. Don't forget to take a stroll along the harbor to witness the midnight sun or northern lights, depending on the season. Lastly, no visit to Akureyri would be complete without exploring the thriving art scene, with numerous galleries and murals dotted around town, offering a glimpse into the Icelandic soul.

Vacation packages in Akureyri

Photo of Akureyri, Iceland by Bernd Hildebrandt

The best and easiest way to visit Akureyri is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Iceland.

Booking a vacation package to Akureyri means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Akureyri to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Akureyri is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find unique vacation packages to Akureyri, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the town of Akureyri.

Find vacation packages in Akureyri

Discover and compare vacation packages that take you to the wonderful town of Akureyri.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Akureyri get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Iceland. Your customized holiday package to Akureyri is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Akureyri

To get to the town of Akureyri the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Iceland can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Akureyri by booking flights with any of the 12 airlines that offer direct flights to Akureyri airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Akureyri airport are Turkish Airlines, Ryanair, easyJet, United Airlines, and Azul. Go to this page to compare all flights to Akureyri.

To reach the town of Akureyri, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Akureyri airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Akureyri, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Akureyri airport and Akureyri below.

Find cheap flights to Akureyri

Photo of Akureyri Iceland, by Michelle Raponi-mountains

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Akureyri, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Iceland. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Akureyri, Iceland, in January.

The cheapest one-way flight to Akureyri costs around 40 EUR and is offered by the airline easyJet.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Akureyri cost approximately 69 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on August 13 and the return flight is scheduled on August 28. The flight time is around 1 hour per way.

The return flight is operated by Vopnafjorður Airport.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Iceland and the town of Akureyri from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Akureyri

Travelers visiting Akureyri in Iceland can fly to Akureyri airport directly from 2073 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Akureyri airport and the town of Akureyri in Iceland depart from Akureyri airport in Akureyri, Iceland, Southwest Georgia Regional airport in Albany, the United States, and Norman Manley International airport in Kingston, Jamaica.

Travelers can fly to Iceland by choosing from from 2 weekly flight(s) from Akureyri; from 1 weekly flight(s) from Albany; and from 6 weekly flight(s) from Kingston.

The airline that operates most flights to Iceland is Air Greenland. Air Greenland offers 27 scheduled flight routes to Iceland.

Discover the most popular flights to Akureyri below. Click to view flights to Akureyri, Iceland from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Akureyri

Photo of Akureyri, Iceland by David Mark

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a town as fantastic as Akureyri is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Akureyri usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Akureyri offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the town allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Akureyri and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Akureyri planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Iceland can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Akureyri. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the town, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Akureyri.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Akureyri in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Akureyri

While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Akureyri provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Akureyri. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

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Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the town of Akureyri on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the town of Akureyri that match the information provided.

Car rental in Akureyri

Photo of Akureyri, Iceland by Michelle Raponi

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Akureyri.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Akureyri, Iceland, below.

Popular types of car rental in Akureyri

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the town of Akureyri to find the best car for your travel plans. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore Iceland at their own pace.

This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the town of Akureyri.

Check out all options available in Akureyri and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in Iceland below.

Search for car rental in Akureyri

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful town of Akureyri. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Akureyri, Iceland, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Akureyri

Photo of Akureyri Iceland, by Arvid Olson-koningsdam

The town of Akureyri is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Iceland. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Iceland has it all.

Iceland is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Iceland that are as magical as the town of Akureyri. The most popular travel destinations in Iceland are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Iceland

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Iceland. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Akureyri

Photo of Akureyri Iceland, by Michelle Raponi-iceland

A taste of Iceland through a visit to Akureyri can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Akureyri to another remarkable destination in Iceland.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the town of Akureyri to other spectacular locations in Iceland, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Popular domestic flights from Akureyri

Travelers in Iceland can catch flights to domestic airports in Reykjavik, Ísafjörður, Egilsstaðir, Grimsey, and Vopnafjorður. Domestic flights in Iceland are operated by 3 airlines: Icelandair, Norlandair, and easyJet. There are around 14 scheduled flight routes operating to Akureyri on a weekly basis.

From Akureyri, travelers can book scheduled flights to 6 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Akureyri depart to many top-rated destinations in Iceland and are offered by Icelandair, Norlandair, and easyJet.

Search domestic flights from Akureyri

Traveling to another city or region in Iceland? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Akureyri to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Iceland on the selected dates.

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