Explore and experience the following 20 attractions in Akureyri:
Rewritten Article:
Strutting its stuff as the capital of North Iceland, Akureyri is an exciting city that offers a plethora of activities to keep travelers engaged. Here's our roundup of the top 20 things to see and do in Akureyri, making your visit truly unforgettable.
1. Jólagarðurinn
Step into a vibrant red house adorned with Christmas and candy decorations year-round at Jólagarðurinn, roughly a 10-minute drive from the city center. The fact that it's surrounded by lush, green grass in the summer makes this visits even more magical.
2. Kjarnaskógar
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Kjarnaskógar, a forest overflowing with short hiking trails and exceptional playgrounds, perfect for a family outing. It's just a few minutes' drive from the city center.
3. Brynjulís
Indulge in some of Iceland's favorite ice cream at Brynjulís, renowned for its unique blend that is milkier and remarkably colder than elsewhere. Don't forget to swing by during your visit to Akureyri!
4. Sundlaug Akureyrar
Sundlaug Akureyrar, the Akureyri swimming pool, is only a stone's throw away from the city center. Its expansive facilities include water slides, a paddling pool, toys, and more. Don't let a little chill stop you from taking a dip, as Icelanders don't shy away from swimming in snowy weather!
5. Hliðarfjall
Akureyri's ski slopes, situated in the mountains above the city, are extraordinarily popular for winter sports enthusiasts across Iceland. The area also serves as the venue for prominent winter events such as the Iceland Winter Games and AK Extreme.
6. Jaðar Golf Course
Experience a hole-in-one under the midnight sun at Jaðar Golf Course, the northernmost 18-hole course in the world. The course hosts an annual tournament during the summer, making it a must-visit attraction.
7. Akureyri Botanic Garden
The Akureyri Botanic Garden, Lystigarður Akureyrar, boasts an impressive variety of plants and flowers, considering its remote location. Take a leisurely stroll through the garden and take in the serene atmosphere.
8. Festivals in Akureyri
Hosting a bustling assortment of festivals all year round, Akureyri is the hub of entertainment in North Iceland. From the Vaka folk art festival in the summer to the Akureyri Motor Events, Iceland Summer Games, and Akureyrarvaka focused on families, there's always a reason to celebrate in this city.
9. Museums
Explore the rich history and whimsical collections of Akureyri's diverse museums, including the Akureyri Museum of Industry, The Old Toy Display, The Motorcycle Museum, The Aviation Museum, and The Icelandic Folk and Outsider Museum, among others.
10. Akureyri Art Museum
Nestled in the heart of Akureyri, the Akureyri Art Museum stands proud with its diverse and intriguing exhibits. A visit is highly recommended for art enthusiasts.
11. Junk Food in Akureyri
Akureyri locals have a peculiar penchant for putting their unique twist on junk food, for example, topping hot dogs with pickled red cabbage and Icelandic cocktail sauce (essentially mayo and ketchup). Don't be surprised if you encounter burgers with French fries sandwiched in between, known locally as Akureyringur.
12. Skautahöll Akureyrar
Skautahöll Akureyrar is home to Iceland's only ice hockey team outside of Reykjavik, as well as one of the best teams in the entire country. Catching a game is not only fun but can also serve as a refreshing escape from the summer heat (or the warm weather, depending on your perspective!).
13. Græni Hatturinn
Græni Hatturinn is a hidden gem of a concert venue situated in an alley off Goðangatan in Akureyri. Despite its modest appearance, this venue offers some of the best concert experiences in North Iceland.
14. Akureyrarkirkja
One of the most striking landmarks in Akureyri, Akureyrarkirkja Church, was the grandest in Iceland when it was built in 1940. Some beautiful church windows originated from St. Michael's Church in Coventry, England, saved from destruction during World War II.
15. Goðangatan
Meander through the pedestrian streets of Goðangatan and enjoy the array of interesting shops and cafes along the way. This charming area is an excellent place to hang out during your visit to Akureyri.
16. Hiking
Súlur Mountain looms over Akureyri, with a hike that takes approximately 6-7 hours to complete, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding fjord. Keep in mind that only a short segment of the hike provides a breathtaking panorama.
17. Hof Cultural Centre
Hof serves as Akureyri's answer to Reykjavik's Harpa Concert and Conference Centre, boasting a stunning design and a wide variety of concerts, plays (some in English), and other cultural events. The on-site restaurant should not be missed.
18. Diving
Diving in the waters around Akureyri presents a thrilling underwater adventure, with captivating sites like Strytór and Arnarnesstrytór offering a chance to explore hydrothermal chimneys. While some diving skills are required, day tours of Lake Mývatn provide less demanding opportunities to dive.
19. Pollurinn
Located south of the city center, Pollurinn is a picturesque pond teeming with birds, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely walk. Don't forget to bring some bread to share with the feathery inhabitants!
20. Day Trips
Thanks to its strategic location, Akureyri serves as the gateway for numerous exhilarating day trips to destinations like Lake Mývatn, Siglufjörður, and Skagafjörður. From hiking and whale watching to river rafting and heli-skiing, there's no shortage of adventure to be found in the surrounding area.
Additional Enrichment:
Looking for more adventures beyond the city limits? consider these top day trip destinations from Akureyri:
### Top Day Trip Destinations * Lake Mývatn and Goðafoss Waterfall: Explore the unique volcanic landscapes and diverse wildlife at Lake Mývatn while marveling at the stunning Goðafoss Waterfall. * Whale Watching: Join a guided tour for the chance to witness humpback whales, minke whales, orcas, and other marine life in their natural habitat. * Arctic Coastline Tour: Experience the rugged beauty of Iceland's Arctic coastline, touring coastal communities and spotting whales. * Hverfjall Volcano and Nature Baths: Combine a visit to Hverfjall with a soak in the natural baths for a rejuvenating experience. * Husky Sledding: Embark on an adrenaline-pumping husky sledding adventure and learn about the care of these incredible creatures.
- Discover the cultural fabric of Akureyri, a city where news of festivals, lifestyle, and events are a regular occurrence, always adding to the city's vibrant atmosphere.
- Besides its rich cultural scene, Akureyri is home to the Kjarnaskógar forest, a serene area perfect for snowmobiling, picnics, and enjoying the changing vegetation with each season.
- Travelers with a passion for the arts will find the Safnasafnið Akureyri Art Museum a must-visit destination. The museum's exhibits are a delightful displays of Icelandic culture and lifestyle.
- For those interested in Iceland's history and folk traditions, a visit to the museums in Akureyri, such as the Akureyri Museum of Industry and the Icelandic Folk and Outsider Museum, offers an insightful journey through the country's past.
- Venture out of the city to experience the annual winter events at Hliðarfjall, the Akureyri ski slopes that attract tourists and locals alike for snowmobiling, skiing, and other winter sports.
- During the summer months, travel the northernmost 18-hole golf course in the world, the Jaðar Golf Course, for a unique round of golf beneath the midnight sun.
- Spending a day exploring the Akureyri Botanic Garden, Lystigarður Akureyrar, reveals an impressive variety of plants and flowers thriving in this remote location.
- Keep an eye on local news for upcoming festivals in Akureyri, especially the Vaka folk art festival, the Akureyri Motor Events, and Akureyrarvaka, events that cater to all age groups and make for unforgettable experiences.
- On warmer days, enjoy the charming streets of Goðangatan, a lively area filled with shops, cafes, and eateries, giving a glimpse into the city's culture and lifestyle.
- Add a touch of adventure to your Akureyri trip by exploring nearby destinations such as Lake Mývatn, Siglufjörður, and Skagafjörður, offering opportunities for hiking, whale watching, river rafting, and husky sledding.
