Akureyri

About Akreyri

Iceland’s capital of the North lies only 60 miles south of the Arctic Circle. As it’s also situated at the end of Iceland’s longest fjord, the views from the city are spectacular. Thanks to a wide choice of accommodation, local tour operators and experiences, a huge ski area, a rich cultural programme, and excellent bars and restaurants, there’s something for everyone in Akureyri. Popular attractions include year-round whale watching, a dip in the geothermal pools, and world-leading attractions like the infamous ‘Beer Spa’.

You could stay in a small guest house, a quirky hostel, or camp under the stars to try and catch the Northern Lights. This city is good for shopping too. The Sunnuhlíð mall is home to some delightful family-owned independent stores, and there’s a handicraft market on the second floor. Akmidbaer in downtown Akureyri is where to go for fashion, books, and souvenirs, and its bars and terraces make it the perfect place for a break. You can find anything and everything at Glerártorg, Akureyri’s flagship shopping centre which also boasts two restaurants and an ice-cream parlour. From high-end restaurants to indie street food, Akureyri has it all. And don’t leave without sampling some freshly caught seafood.

As you’d expect, Akureyri is a truly magical setting around Christmas and New Year when there’s an enormous town bonfire and firework display. Winter sports are very popular here and Akureyri hosts AK Extreme, the exciting snowboarding festival every April along with the Donald Duck Ski Competition for kids aged 6-15. But there’s plenty to do here in the summer months too. In June, the world’s most northern golf course hosts a Summer Solstice competition, attracting golfers from all over the globe who want to take advantage of the Midnight Sun and play around-the-clock. In July, the Ein með Öllu family festival and Iceland Summer Games offer entertainment for all ages.