North Iceland, Iceland
///Travel Guide
Hvalir, fossar og jarðhiti

North Iceland
Travel Guide

Fylgstu með hnúfubökum við Húsavík, slakaðu á í Jarðböðunum við Mývatn, stattu yfir hinum þrumandi Dettifossi og keyrðu Demantshringinn um gíga og hraun.

🕐

From Reykjavík

5 h drive / 45 min fly

🏙️

Main town

Akureyri

☀️

Best time

Jun–Sep

✈️

Nearest airport

Akureyri (AEY)

On this page

01Introduction

Norðurland: Ísland í sinni tærustu mynd

Ef suðurströndin er vinsælasti hluti Íslands er Norðurland villta hjartað. Þetta er land aflmesta foss Evrópu, vatns umkringds gervigígum og leirhverum, og hins skýlda Skjálfanda þar sem hvalir safnast saman í ótrúlegum fjölda á hverju sumri.

Í miðju svæðinu stendur Akureyri, hin vinalega höfuðborg Norðurlands, með grasagarði, kaffihúsamenningu og skíðabrekkum — alvöru bær til að hafa sem bækistöð. Í kringum hann tengir Demantshringurinn saman Goðafoss, Mývatn, Dettifoss, Ásbyrgi og hvalaskoðunarbæinn Húsavík.

Norðurland launar þeim sem fara út fyrir hringveginn: selir og Hvítserkur á Vatnsnesi, sjávarþorp og krókóttir fjallvegir Tröllaskaga, og með því besta norðurljósaútsýni landsins að vetri.

02Quick Facts

North Iceland at a Glance

The essentials every visitor should know before arriving.

🕐

From Reykjavík

5 h drive / 45 min fly

🏙️

Main town

Akureyri

☀️

Best time

Jun–Sep

Book ToursHotels
🛣️

Road conditions

Paved Ring Road

🐋

Top activity

Whale watching

Explore Attractions Find Hotels Book Tours Plan My Trip
✈️

Nearest airport

Akureyri (AEY)

🛣️

Road conditions

Paved Ring Road

🐋

Top activity

Whale watching

03When to Go

The Best Time to Visit North Iceland

Norðurland sveiflast milli græns, hvalfyllts sumars og snævi þakins, norðurljósalýsts vetrar — með raunverulegum árstíðabundnum málamiðlunum.

Sumar

jún–ágú

Hámark hvalaskoðunar, miðnætursól, blómstrandi garðar á Akureyri og opið aðgengi að Dettifossi og hálendinu. Besti tíminn í heild.

Haust

sep–okt

Hvalir enn til staðar snemma, haustlitir við Mývatn og norðurljósin snúa aftur á dimmum himni.

Vetur

nóv–mar

Frábær norðurljós, jarðhitaböð í snjónum og skíði í Hlíðarfjalli — en Dettifossvegur og fjallvegir geta lokast.

Vor

apr–maí

Rólegir vegir, farfuglar snúa aftur að Mývatni og fyrstu hvalaferðir sumarsins frá Húsavík.

04Location & Access

Getting to & Around North Iceland

Norðurland er um fimm klukkustundir frá Reykjavík eftir hringveginum, eða 45 mínútna innanlandsflug til Akureyrar — auðveldasta leiðin til að sleppa langa akstrinum.

Flug til Akureyrar

Nokkur flug daglega frá Reykjavíkurflugvelli (~45 mín). Leigðu bíl við komu og skoðaðu svæðið þaðan.

Akstur um hringveg

Þjóðvegur 1 norður um Borgarnes og Holtavörðuheiði (~5 klst). Malbikaður og fær fólksbílum, en athugaðu heiðina að vetri.

Skoðunarferðir

Hvalaskoðun, Demantshringur og Mývatnsferðir fara frá Akureyri; margra daga ferðir ná til Norðurlands frá Reykjavík.

05Must See

Top Attractions in North Iceland

The essential sights — loaded live from our content library, with directions and full guides.

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Akurey — North Iceland, Iceland

Akurey

Discover breathtaking panoramic views of Eyjafjörður fjord and Akureyri from this serene island viewpoint.

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Akureyrarkirkja Church — North Iceland, Iceland

Akureyrarkirkja Church

A striking modernist Lutheran church, Akureyrarkirkja stands as a distinctive landmark towering over Akureyri.

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Akureyri — North Iceland, Iceland

Akureyri

Akureyri, North Iceland's vibrant capital, is the largest municipality in the region.

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Akureyri Botanical Garden — North Iceland, Iceland

Akureyri Botanical Garden

Explore a northern oasis of diverse flora and a charming cafe at Akureyri's renowned botanical garden.

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Akureyri Golf Club — Arctic Open — North Iceland, Iceland

Akureyri Golf Club — Arctic Open

Experience midnight golf at the world's northernmost 18-hole course, nestled on a vibrant green hillside above Akureyri.

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Akureyri Toy Museum — North Iceland, Iceland

Akureyri Toy Museum

Step into a whimsical world of childhood memories at Akureyri's charming Toy Museum.

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Akureyri – Capital of the North — North Iceland, Iceland

Akureyri – Capital of the North

Akureyri, the vibrant Capital of the North, nestles beautifully at the head of Iceland's longest fjord.

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Aldeyjarfoss — North Iceland, Iceland

Aldeyjarfoss

Aldeyjarfoss: Iceland's basalt column masterpiece.

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Arctic Circle Monument — North Iceland, Iceland

Arctic Circle Monument

Witness the enigmatic Arctic Circle Monument, a striking grey sphere on a grassy cliff overlooking the wild North Atlantic.

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06Dining

Where to Eat in North Iceland

Featured places to eat and drink, straight from our content library.

Bautinn
€€

Bautinn

akureyri

Bautinn welcomes travelers to Akureyri from its charming red building, distinguished by a prominent black-roofed tower and a bright glass conservatory. This inviting restaurant offers an international menu in a cozy setting, perfect for a relaxing meal in North Iceland. Located on Hafnarstræti, it's a prominent and beloved spot for both locals and visitors.

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Strikið
€€€

Strikið

akureyri

Strikið is a popular rooftop restaurant in central Akureyri offering panoramic views over Eyjafjörður. The restaurant serves a varied menu featuring Icelandic ingredients alongside international dishes and is especially known for its outdoor terrace during the summer months. It is a favorite dining spot for both locals and visitors exploring North Iceland.

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Brauðgerðarhús
€€

Brauðgerðarhús

akureyri

Brauðgerðarhús is a bakery in North Iceland, Iceland. Icelandic bakeries are beloved community institutions, known for their freshly baked bread, kleina (twisted doughnuts), snúðar (cinnamon rolls), and strong coffee. The smell of fresh baking is one of Iceland's most comforting experiences.

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Café Cow
€€

Café Cow

akureyri

Café Cow is a restaurant in North Iceland, Iceland. Icelandic cuisine has evolved dramatically in recent decades, moving from traditional fish and lamb dishes to world-class dining experiences. Many restaurants now showcase local ingredients — fresh fish, lamb, skyr, and Arctic char — with modern culinary techniques.

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Café Kvika
€€

Café Kvika

other

Café Kvika is a café in North Iceland, Iceland serving soup. Iceland's café culture is warm and welcoming, offering a respite from the weather with excellent coffee, home-baked goods, and a cosy atmosphere. This is the kind of place where locals linger over coffee and visitors feel immediately at home.

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🍽️
€€

Centrum Kitchen & Bar

akureyri

Centrum Kitchen & Bar is a restaurant in North Iceland, Iceland serving American. Icelandic cuisine has evolved dramatically in recent decades, moving from traditional fish and lamb dishes to world-class dining experiences. Many restaurants now showcase local ingredients — fresh fish, lamb, skyr, and Arctic char — with modern culinary techniques.

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07Accommodation

Where to Stay in North Iceland

Real hotels and guesthouses with photos — book directly with our Hotels.com partner.

All hotels
Acco Gistiheimili
guest house

Acco Gistiheimili

Norðurland

Bright, modern guesthouse in North Iceland, offering comfortable rooms with bunk beds and scenic views.

$100–$200/night
Acco Ice íbúðir
apartment

Acco Ice íbúðir

Norðurland

Stylish apartment in North Iceland, featuring a bright living area, a cozy bedroom, and a unique loft.

$150–$300/night
Akureyri Backpackers
hostel

Akureyri Backpackers

Norðurland

Vibrant Akureyri hostel on Hafnarstræti, offering a modern base for exploring North Iceland.

$40–$100/night
Akureyri Skáld Hótel – Curio Collection by Hilton
hotel

Akureyri Skáld Hótel – Curio Collection by Hilton

Norðurland

Discover modern comfort and Icelandic charm at Akureyri Skáld Hótel, nestled in the vibrant city center.

$180–$350/night
Akureyri | Berjaya Iceland Hotels
hotel

Akureyri | Berjaya Iceland Hotels

Norðurland

Experience modern comfort at Berjaya Iceland Hotels Akureyri, blending sleek design with northern charm.

$180–$350/night
Albert Guesthouse
guest house

Albert Guesthouse

Norðurland

Discover cozy comfort at Albert Guesthouse, a welcoming retreat in scenic North Iceland with convenient parking.

$120–$250/night

08Tours & Experiences

Best Tours in North Iceland

Top-rated guided experiences, booked through our partner Viator.

Browse all tours
Private Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike
2 days

Private Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike

From $7240Book
Private 2-Day Glacier Lagoon, Ice Cave and Northern Lights
2 days

Private 2-Day Glacier Lagoon, Ice Cave and Northern Lights

From $7400Book
Glacier Adventure at Sólheimajökull Private Tour
5h

Glacier Adventure at Sólheimajökull Private Tour

From $383Book
Reykjavik Private Northern Lights Tour with Pro Photographer
3h

Reykjavik Private Northern Lights Tour with Pro Photographer

From $1636Book
Reykjanes Peninsula Private Day Tour - up to 9 passengers
6h

Reykjanes Peninsula Private Day Tour - up to 9 passengers

From $20500Book
Reykjavík Bay Jet ski tour
2h

Reykjavík Bay Jet ski tour

From $179Book

Tours & activities powered by Viator.

09Geothermal

Hot Springs & Pools in North Iceland

Soaking is Iceland's national pastime — here's where to do it.

All lagoons & pools
Blönduós Swimming Pool
Local Pool

Blönduós Swimming Pool

Nestled in the tranquil town of Blönduós, this geothermal swimming pool offers a perfect break for travelers exploring North Iceland. Enjoy outdoor pools, hot tubs with varying temperatures, and family-friendly amenities, all set against a backdrop of scenic northern landscapes. It's an ideal stop for those driving the Ring Road, seeking relaxation and local charm.

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Dalvík Swimming Pool
Scenic Stop

Dalvík Swimming Pool

Nestled in the charming coastal town of Dalvík, this welcoming geothermal pool offers a perfect blend of relaxation and scenic beauty. Immerse yourself in the outdoor swimming pools or unwind in the hot tubs, all while soaking in breathtaking views of Eyjafjörður fjord and the surrounding majestic mountains. It's a beloved local gathering spot and a tranquil retreat for travelers exploring North Iceland.

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Forest Lagoon
Best View

Forest Lagoon

Nestled within a tranquil forest just outside Akureyri, Forest Lagoon offers a modern geothermal spa experience unlike any other. Immerse yourself in warm infinity-style pools that seamlessly blend with the natural woodland, providing breathtaking views over Eyjafjörður fjord and the surrounding majestic mountains. It's a perfect blend of relaxation and northern Icelandic scenery.

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GeoSea Geothermal Sea Baths
Ocean View Spa

GeoSea Geothermal Sea Baths

Perched dramatically on a cliff above Húsavík, GeoSea Geothermal Sea Baths offers a unique premium bathing experience. Immerse yourself in naturally heated, mineral-rich seawater, gentle on the skin, while enjoying infinity-style pools with panoramic views over Skjálfandi Bay. Keep an eye out for distant whales in summer, or witness spectacular sunsets and Northern Lights during winter.

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Grettislaug Hot Spring
Saga Hot Spring

Grettislaug Hot Spring

Discover Grettislaug Hot Spring, a legendary geothermal bathing site nestled on the remote Reykjaströnd coast in Skagafjörður. Here, two stone pools invite you to soak in warm, natural waters with the invigorating North Atlantic waves breaking just meters away. It's a unique blend of history, nature, and pure Icelandic adventure.

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Hofsós Infinity Pool
Infinity Pool Viewpoint

Hofsós Infinity Pool

Perched dramatically over Skagafjörður fjord, Hofsós Infinity Pool is a geothermal marvel offering an illusion of endless water merging with the ocean. This renowned outdoor pool provides spectacular views of Drangey island and the surrounding mountains, making it one of Iceland's most scenic bathing spots.

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10Itineraries

Suggested North Iceland Itineraries

Ready-made plans — mix, match and make them yours in the Trip Planner.

1 dagur

Hápunktar Demantshringsins

  • Goðafoss
  • Mývatn og Hverir
  • Dettifoss
  • Ásbyrgi
  • Húsavík
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2 dagar

Akureyri og Norðurland

  • Dagur 1: Akureyri, Goðafoss, Jarðböðin við Mývatn
  • Dagur 2: hvalaskoðun á Húsavík, Dettifoss, Ásbyrgi
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3 dagar

Norðurland í dýpt

  • Sjávarþorp Tröllaskaga
  • Akureyri og jarðhitasvæði Mývatns
  • Demantshringurinn
  • Selir á Vatnsnesi og Hvítserkur

11Beyond

Day Trips from North Iceland

Nearby excursions worth building into your route.

Húsavík

1 klst frá Akureyri

Hvalaskoðunarhöfuðborg Evrópu, með GeoSea sjóböðunum yfir flóanum.

Explore

Jarðhitasvæði Mývatns

1 klst frá Akureyri

Leirhverir í Hverum, Krafla, Leirhnjúkur og Jarðböðin.

Explore

Tröllaskagi

1 klst frá Akureyri

Siglufjörður og Ólafsfjörður um dramatísk göng og fjallvegi.

12Know Before You Go

North Iceland Travel Tips

Local know-how to keep your trip smooth and safe.

🐋

Whale watching

Húsavík is Europe's whale-watching capital. Book June–August for the best sightings and bring motion-sickness tablets.

🦟

Midges

Lake Mývatn literally means 'midge lake'. In summer bring a head-net for the calm days around the water.

❄️

Winter roads

The road to Dettifoss (862/864) and mountain passes can close in winter. Check road.is before setting out.

♨️

Geothermal

Skip crowds at the Blue Lagoon — the Mývatn Nature Baths and GeoSea in Húsavík are cheaper and just as blissful.

⛽

Fuel

Akureyri and Húsavík have full services; fill up before the Mývatn–Dettifoss loop where stations are sparse.

🕐

Distances

The Diamond Circle is ~250 km. Give it a full day and start early in shoulder season for daylight.

13FAQ

North Iceland Travel FAQ

10 of the most common questions, answered.

What is the Diamond Circle?

+

A ~250 km loop in North Iceland linking Goðafoss, Lake Mývatn, Dettifoss (Europe's most powerful waterfall), Ásbyrgi canyon and the whale-watching town of Húsavík.

Where is the best whale watching in Iceland?

+

Húsavík in North Iceland — nicknamed the whale-watching capital of Europe — with high summer sighting rates for humpbacks, minke and even blue whales.

How do I get to North Iceland from Reykjavík?

+

Drive the Ring Road (~5 hours to Akureyri) or fly Reykjavík–Akureyri in about 45 minutes.

Is Akureyri worth visiting?

+

Yes — Iceland's 'Capital of the North' has a charming centre, botanical gardens, good restaurants, a ski resort and is the gateway to the whole region.

Can you swim in Lake Mývatn area?

+

Not the lake itself, but the Mývatn Nature Baths are a geothermal lagoon with milky-blue mineral water and mountain views — quieter than the Blue Lagoon.

What is Dettifoss?

+

The most powerful waterfall in Europe by volume, in Vatnajökull National Park. The west bank (Road 862) is paved and easier; the east bank offers closer views.

When can you see the Northern Lights in North Iceland?

+

September to April on clear, dark nights. The north's long winter nights and inland dark-sky areas make it excellent for aurora hunting.

How many days do you need in North Iceland?

+

Two to three days to cover Akureyri, the Diamond Circle and Mývatn comfortably without rushing.

Is the Mývatn area good in winter?

+

Yes, for Northern Lights, geothermal bathing and snowy landscapes — but check that the Dettifoss and mountain roads are open.

What geothermal areas are in North Iceland?

+

Hverir (Námaskarð) boiling mud pots, Krafla volcano and Leirhnjúkur lava fields, plus the Mývatn Nature Baths — all near Lake Mývatn.

14References

Trusted Icelandic Sources

This guide is grounded in official Icelandic sources — always check them for live conditions before you travel.

Vegagerðin — road.is

Opinberar upplýsingar um færð og opnun fjallvega (F-vega).

Veðurstofa Íslands — vedur.is

Veðurspár, viðvaranir og norðurljósaspá.

SafeTravel.is

Slysavarnafélagið Landsbjörg — öryggisviðvaranir, ferðaáætlanir og hættumat.

Vatnajökulsþjóðgarður (norður)

Nær yfir Jökulsárgljúfur, Dettifoss og Ásbyrgi í norðurhluta þjóðgarðsins.

Visit North Iceland — northiceland.is

Opinber markaðsstofa Norðurlands.

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North Iceland Guide

North Iceland Guide

Akureyri, Mývatn, Dettifoss and the Diamond Circle in full.

Diamond Circle Route

Diamond Circle Route

The north's answer to the Golden Circle, stop by stop.

Húsavík Whale Watching

Húsavík Whale Watching

Europe's whale-watching capital on Skjálfandi bay.

Lake Mývatn Guide

Lake Mývatn Guide

Geothermal baths, craters, lava fields and birdlife.

East Iceland

East Iceland

2h

West Iceland

West Iceland

3h

Westfjords

Westfjords

4h