Akureyri

Akureyri sits at the head of Eyjafjörður, Iceland's longest fjord, and serves as the country's northern capital in everything but name. With around 20,000 residents, it punches well above its size — a lively arts scene, a botanical garden that somehow thrives at 65 degrees north, and a compact old town of colourful timber houses that rewards an afternoon of slow walking. It is far enough from Reykjavík to feel like a different country, yet polished enough to feel entirely comfortable.

The surrounding region is the real draw for most visitors. Lake Mývatn, one of Iceland's most otherworldly landscapes, sits roughly an hour's drive east — its steaming vents, lava formations, and birdlife making it a destination in its own right. Whale watching excursions depart from the nearby town of Húsavík, widely regarded as one of the best places in Europe to see humpbacks. In winter, the ski resort at Hlíðarfjall operates just above the city, and the northern lights are a regular presence on clear nights between September and March. Summer brings almost perpetual daylight and access to the Tröllaskagi peninsula, where highland roads and dramatic coastal scenery open up for hiking and self-drive exploration.

Akureyri suits a wide range of travellers. Families find it manageable and safe, with plenty of structured activities nearby. Adventure seekers use it as a base for the Diamond Circle route, which connects Mývatn, Ásbyrgi canyon, Dettifoss waterfall, and Húsavík in a single loop. Couples and solo travellers drawn to quieter, more considered travel appreciate the city's cultural venues, independent restaurants, and the slower pace that distinguishes northern Iceland from the busier south. The shoulder seasons of May and September offer good value and thinner crowds without sacrificing much in terms of access.

Localtrav plans Akureyri trips with the same transparency the agency brings to every destination — clear pricing on hotels, car rentals, guided activities, and tours, so you know exactly what you are getting before you commit. Whether you are building a self-drive loop through the north or combining Akureyri with a broader Iceland itinerary, the team puts together a trip that reflects how you actually want to travel.