Akureyri Iceland
Country: Iceland · Region: Iceland · Currency: Icelandic Krona
Akureyri is Iceland's largest town outside the Southwest region and the unofficial capital of North Iceland, located on a scenic fjord with a population of around 19,000. It serves as a good base for exploring northern Iceland's attractions including Mývatn, waterfalls, and whale watching opportunities.
Top sights
Akureyrarkirkja, Akureyri Botanical Garden, Gásir medieval trading post, Aviation Museum of Iceland, Nonnahús, Listagilið art canyon
Things to do
- Akureyrarkirkja
- An impressive church in the city centre with scenic views.
- Aviation Museum of Iceland
- Located in a large hangar at Akureyri Airport, featuring static displays of aircraft and the history of aviation in Iceland.
- Akureyri Botanical Garden
- A tranquil municipal botanical garden worth visiting.
- Gásir
- A medieval trading post located 11 km north of Akureyri, with medieval reenactments in July and good Northern Lights viewing opportunities.
Where to eat
- Greifinn
- Restaurant famous for pizza including a unique salt-fish pizza, open daily 11:30-21:00 with free parking.
- Brynja
- Locally famous ice cream shop.
Bars and nightlife
- Græni hatturinn
- Night club on Hafnarstræti 96 featuring live music.
Forecast for Akureyri
Loading the live forecast.
Weather in Akureyri by month
Averages from 2015 to 2024, not a forecast. Within about two weeks of a date, the live forecast above is the one to trust.
| Month | Average high | Average low | Rainfall | Wet days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 32°F | 23°F | 4.4 in | 19 |
| February | 33°F | 23°F | 4.1 in | 17 |
| March | 34°F | 25°F | 4.1 in | 17 |
| April | 38°F | 29°F | 2.4 in | 12 |
| May | 45°F | 35°F | 2.1 in | 12 |
| June | 55°F | 45°F | 3.1 in | 14 |
| July | 58°F | 48°F | 3.3 in | 15 |
| August | 57°F | 47°F | 3.9 in | 14 |
| September | 51°F | 41°F | 5.1 in | 16 |
| October | 41°F | 33°F | 5.6 in | 17 |
| November | 36°F | 26°F | 4.3 in | 16 |
| December | 32°F | 22°F | 5.7 in | 19 |
Getting around
The town is compact and walkable from the waterfront, with a free public bus system (SVA) and taxi services available, or rent a bicycle from The Viking souvenir shop.
What to eat
Try locally famous ice cream from Brynja, or visit Greifinn for pizza including the unique salt-fish variety, with budget options like hotdog stands and Domino's Pizza.
Tips
Book whale watching tours in advance with Elding, and check weather conditions before driving the Ring Road valley in inclement weather.
Best for
Northern lights, whale watching, hiking