Akureyri holiday travel

Akureyri is the second largest city in Iceland, located in the far north along the sea and hemmed in by tall mountains. Its history stretches back several hundred years and its founding is owed, in part, to a strong natural harbour. This fishing village is a good base from which to set out into Iceland’s most remote areas.

Where to stay – hotels

Nearly all of Akureyri’s well–known hotels are located near the centre of town and are easily accessed both from the harbour and the local airport. The offerings can be a little limited, so it’s a good idea to book your Akureyri hotel in advance through an online agent.

The more upscale hotels in Akureyri are relatively close to the airport and offer connecting shuttles from the Arrivals area. It’s not difficult to find more modest hotels to suit budget travellers in Akureyri. A comprehensive list of Akureyri hotel can be found by clicking here.

Though the selection of hotels in Akureyri is somewhat slim, the amenities are comprehensive. Many are even equipped with heated pools and saunas to combat the chilly weather. The staff of most Akureyri hotel can help you arrange excursions to Myvatn and other outlying destinations.

What to do

Akureyri has a quaint a laid–back atmosphere. Even though it’s the second–largest city in Iceland, don’t expect to find a thriving metropolis when you arrive. Taking a walk from the city centre to the harbour is a nice way to pass an afternoon, though the walk can be a little hilly away from the waterfront.

The commercial district is home to a few nice restaurants and several bars and pubs to while away the midnight hours. You may catch sight of locals eating hamburgers served with French fries inside a bun, and you can order these at several different places downtown.

If you feel like your temperature is dropping, there’s a public heated swimming pool as well as smaller ‘hot pots’ where you can take a dip and warm up. It’s common practice to clean up in the adjoining showers before and after you swim.

The big highlight in Akureyri is heading out into the more rugged mountains and exploring the area. Make sure that you load up on the finer things in life–have a good meal and enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep–before embarking on your expedition.

What to see – by car hire

Hiring a car in Akureyri is the surest way to see the city. While Akureyri is a relatively small town, the local terrain can be a little hilly which can make for a taxing walk. Hire cars in Akureyri can be easily booked online and the roster of companies includes Hertz and other well–known firms.

Myvatn is a popular stop–off point for visitors to Akureyri. Exploring this remote region requires hiring a car in Akureyri before setting out.

While staying in Akureyri, you may hear other travellers talking about Devil’s Kitchen. These unique geological wonder sports a field of smouldering sulphur wells that send steam billowing up. Make sure you hire a comfortable car before setting out.

Some other popular daytrips from Akureyri include the Godafoss waterfall along with a huge sinkhole known as the crater of Viti. Hire cars in Akureyri is an essential means of visiting these sites.