FAQ - North Iceland

Is there a direct bus from Reykjavík to Akureyri?

Strætó bus 57 runs between Reykjavík BSÍ terminal and Akureyri several times a week. The journey takes around 6–7 hours and is a scenic way to travel the Ring Road.

Check timetables at straeto.is or see northiceland.is — Public Transportation for a full overview of transport options in North Iceland.

How do I get from Akureyri Airport to the city centre?

Akureyri Airport sits right on the edge of the city — only a 5–10 minute car ride to the centre or 20 minute walk. Several car rental companies also operate directly at the terminal, making it easy to pick up your vehicle and head straight into North Iceland.

The Akureyri Airport Bus is run by a local tour company Sýsli, and tickets can be booked before arrival. The bus drives you to your destination of choice in Akureyri. Click here to see more.

Saga Travel offers various options for transfer to and from Akureyri Airport. Click here for more information.

Geotravel offers transfer to accommodation options by Lake Mývatn. Click here for more information.

See rental options at northiceland.is — Car Rentals.
See public transportation at northiceland.is - Public Transport.

How do I get from the cruise ship pier to Akureyri town centre?

The cruise pier is about 1–2 km from the town centre — a comfortable 15–20 minute walk from the harbour at the coastline until you reach downtown. Taxis are also available from the pier.

Many cruise visitors pre-book shore excursions with transport included. Browse day tour operators at northiceland.is — Day Tours.

How do I get to Grimsey Island?

Grimsey is reached by ferry from Dalvík (approx. 3 hours, sailing three times a week) or by a 25-minute flight from Akureyri with Norlandair.

Book ferry tickets at saefari.is and flights at norlandair.is. More information at northiceland.is — Ferries.

Is there a bus from Akureyri to the Mývatn area?

Yes — Strætó bus 56 connects Akureyri to Reykjahlíð (Mývatn) in summer, taking about 1 hour. Services are limited in winter. A rental car is strongly recommended to explore the full Mývatn region at your own pace.

Check current schedules at straeto.is.

How does the Vaðlaheiðargöng tunnel payment work?

The Vaðlaheiðargöng tunnel is electronic toll only — there are no toll booths at the tunnel. You must register and pay at tunnelen.is within 3 hours before or 24 hours after passing through. Missing this window may result in a fine.

Most car rental companies will brief you on this when you collect your vehicle. See northiceland.is — Toll Roads.

Can I visit the main sights in North Iceland without a car?

Yes — organised day tours from Akureyri cover all the main highlights with transport included. In summer, some Strætó bus routes also cover key destinations.

Browse tour options at northiceland.is — Jeep & Bus Tours and northiceland.is — Bus Tours.

Are there domestic flights from Akureyri within Iceland?

Yes. Icelandair flies daily between Akureyri (AEY) and Reykjavík Domestic Airport — the flight takes about 45 minutes. Norlandair also flies to Grimsey and Þórshöfn.

See all options at northiceland.is — Domestic Flights.

Is there public transport to remote areas like Raufarhöfn and the Arctic Coast Way?

Public transport beyond Húsavík is very limited. Remote destinations such as Raufarhöfn, Þórshöfn and other Arctic Coast Way villages are best reached by private car.

For route inspiration and itinerary ideas, explore the Arctic Coast Way.

Can I travel from Blönduós to Reykjavík by bus in winter?

Yes — Strætó route 57 stops in Blönduós year-round. The journey to Reykjavík takes about 3.5–4 hours. Winter schedules are reduced, so always check straeto.is before travelling.

What is the Diamond Circle?

The Diamond Circle is North Iceland's premier scenic driving route — roughly 250 km — taking in the region's most iconic natural wonders: Húsavík, Ásbyrgi Canyon, Dettifoss waterfall, Lake Mývatn, Goðafoss waterfall.

 We recommend minimum two days to linger and explore properly. Learn more at diamondcircle.is.

What should I know before visiting Dettifoss waterfall?

Dettifoss is Europe's most powerful waterfall by volume. There are two sides to visit: the west bank (road 862, now fully paved) is the most popular and has car parking and viewing platforms; the east bank (road 864) offers a different perspective but is a rougher gravel drive.

Always check road conditions at road.is before heading out. Full details at northiceland.is — Dettifoss.

Is road 862 between Dettifoss and Ásbyrgi now paved?

Yes — road 862 on the west bank of the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river, running between Ásbyrgi and Dettifoss, is now fully paved and accessible in any standard car. The east-bank road 864 remains gravel and is better suited to higher-clearance vehicles.

What is the Arctic Henge and how do I get there?

The Arctic Henge is a monumental stone structure in Raufarhöfn — one of Iceland's northernmost villages — inspired by Norse mythology and designed to mark the midnight sun and the dark winter nights. It sits right on Arctic Coast Way and is about 3.5 hours from Akureyri by car.

Read more at northiceland.is — Arctic Henge.

What can I do on Grimsey Island — and is there an Arctic Circle certificate?

Grimsey is Iceland's only inhabited island that actually crosses the Arctic Circle. You can walk to the Arctic Circle marker, observe enormous seabird colonies including puffins, explore the tiny village, and collect an official Arctic Circle certificate from the local community centre or guesthouse on the island.

More details at northiceland.is — Islands.

What are the top things to see at Lake Mývatn?

Lake Mývatn is a geothermal wonderland and one of Iceland's most diverse nature destinations. Must-see spots include Dimmuborgir lava formations, Hverfjall crater, Námafjall/Hverir geothermal area, Skútustaðir pseudo-craters, and the Earth Lagoon.

Bike rentals are available locally in Reykjahlíð to cycle the full lake circuit (approx. 36 km). Explore everything at northiceland.is — Mývatn.

What is Akureyri like — is there much to do in the city?

Akureyri — Iceland's "little big city" — offers far more than its size suggests. Highlights include the iconic Akureyri Church, the world's northernmost Botanical Garden, excellent restaurants and cafés, the Hof Cultural Centre, a vibrant arts scene, and the Hlíðarfjall ski area just minutes from the city centre in winter.

Explore what Akureyri has to offer at northiceland.is — Akureyri

Where can I see seals in North Iceland?

The Vatnsnes Peninsula is one of the best places in Iceland to spot seals. The harbour seal colony at Illugastaðir is easily accessible — you can often see dozens of seals lounging on the rocks as well as Hvítserkur famous sea cliff. Hvammstangi also has the Icelandic Seal Centre.

What is the best way to plan a self-drive trip in North Iceland?

Allow at least 5 days in the north. 

Browse ready-made itineraries and travel suggestions at northiceland.is — Travel Suggestions.

What hiking trails are available in North Iceland?

There are trails for every level — from easy lakeside walks at Mývatn and Ásbyrgi Canyon to challenging mountain routes like Kaldbakur near Akureyri. Most trails are fully accessible June–September. Always carry a map, waterproofs and extra food and water.

Browse all marked hiking routes at northiceland.is — Hiking Trails.

Where is the best place for whale watching in North Iceland, and when?

North Iceland is one of Europe's finest whale watching destinations, offering extraordinary encounters across two stunning marine environments — Skjálfandi Bay and Eyjafjörður. Húsavík, the whale watching capital of Europe, sits on the shores of Skjálfandi Bay where humpback, minke and blue whales are regularly spotted, with a main season running from April through October. Eyjafjörður, Iceland's longest fjord, is unique in offering year-round whale watching from multiple departure points — Akureyri, Hauganes, Árskógssandur and Dalvík — with humpback whales present even through the winter months. The fjord's nutrient-rich waters are exceptionally productive, with tours from Dalvík recording 876 consecutive tours with humpback whale sightings between June 2025 and March 2026. Both Skjálfandi Bay and Eyjafjörður are well sheltered from the open North Atlantic, making North Iceland one of the most reliable and accessible whale watching regions in the world, whatever the season

Find all operators at northiceland.is — Whale Watching.

Can I see whales in North Iceland in winter (e.g. December)?

Many operators run winter whale watching tours, though sailings are weather-dependent and less frequent than in summer. Humpback and minke whales can still be spotted in winter months amongst other species. Some prefer autumn, winter and spring-time for whale watching. 

Contact tour operators directly for December availability — see northiceland.is — Whale Watching.

Are horse riding tours available in North Iceland, and for which experience levels?

Riding tours are available for all levels — from 1-hour introductory tours for complete beginners to multi-day trekking expeditions for experienced riders. Icelandic horses are a unique breed with the famous tölt gait, making them smooth and comfortable for everyone.

Find farms and tour operators at northiceland.is — Horseback Riding.

Can I rent a bike and cycle around Lake Mývatn?

Yes — cycling around Lake Mývatn is a wonderful way to explore the area at your own pace. The full lake circuit is roughly 36 km and takes 3–5 hours depending on how many stops you make. Bike rentals are available locally in Reykjahlíð.

For more cycling options across North Iceland, visit northiceland.is — Bicycle Tours.

Are there ATV or buggy tours available in North Iceland?

Yes — guided ATV and buggy tours through lava fields, mountains and countryside. No previous experience is needed, and these tours are popular with groups of all ages.

Browse operators at northiceland.is — ATV & Buggy Tours.

How do I see the Northern Lights in North Iceland?

North Iceland is one of the world's best places to see the aurora borealis. The season runs from late August through April, with September–March offering the most reliable dark skies. You need clear skies and darkness — getting away from town lights helps enormously.

Guided Northern Lights tours run from Akureyri and other towns with experienced guides who know the best spots. Find tours at northiceland.is — Northern Lights Tours.

Where can I go swimming or visit a geothermal pool in North Iceland?

North Iceland has wonderful options at every budget. Highlights include Hofsós Swimming Pool (with a stunning fjord view), GeoSea Geothermal Sea Baths in Húsavík, Forest Lagoon near Akureyri, and Earth Lagoon Mývatn. Public municipal pools throughout the region are very affordable.

See all options at northiceland.is — Geothermal Swimming Pools, Baths and Lagoons.

Can I go sea angling or fishing in North Iceland?

Absolutely — North Iceland is a fantastic destination for fishing. Sea angling trips depart from Dalvík, Akureyri and Ólafsfjörður, catching cod, haddock and other North Atlantic species. Freshwater fishing (salmon and trout) is available on rivers and lakes, though a fishing permit is required.

Find operators at northiceland.is — Sea Angling.

When can I see puffins in North Iceland?

Puffin season runs from late April through mid-August. Grimsey Island, the Tjörnes peninsula and Húsavík are among the best spots. Many whale watching boats also take you close to puffin nesting cliffs along the way.

Find birdwatching tours at northiceland.is — Bird Watching.

Are there snowmobile or snowcat tours available in North Iceland in winter?

Yes — snowmobile and snowcat tours are available and offer a spectacular way to experience North Iceland's winter landscapes. Tours typically run December through April, depending on snow conditions.

Find operators at northiceland.is — Snowmobile & Snowcat Tours.

What is the weather like in North Iceland in spring and summer?

North Iceland's weather is famously changeable — even in summer, always pack layers and a waterproof jacket. April and May can still have snow at higher elevations, but valley roads are generally clear. June–August bring the warmest temperatures (10–18°C in Akureyri), and the city often enjoys more sunshine than the south thanks to the Eyjafjörður valley's favourable microclimate.

Midnight sun runs from late May through late July. Always check conditions at en.vedur.is before heading out. More tips at northiceland.is — Icelandic Weather.

Are restaurants and shops open in North Iceland in winter?

Yes — Akureyri is a year-round city with restaurants, cafés, grocery stores and supermarkets open throughout winter. Smaller towns and rural areas may have reduced hours or seasonal closures, so it is worth checking ahead.

Winter is actually a magical time to visit for Northern Lights, skiing and cosy evenings. Explore northiceland.is — Winter Activities.

Can I pay by card everywhere in Iceland, or do I need cash?

Iceland is essentially a cashless society — you can pay by card almost everywhere, including at Christmas markets, swimming pools, small cafés and rural guesthouses. Visa and Mastercard are universally accepted. ATMs are available in all major towns.

More information at northiceland.is — Icelandic Currency.

When do campsites open for campervans in North Iceland?

Most campsites officially open from mid-May or June and close in September. Some sites with indoor facilities open as early as April or stay open year-round. It is always worth checking directly with individual sites.

Check current campsite information at northiceland.is — Camping or camping.is.

Is North Iceland accessible for visitors with disabilities or wheelchair users?

Akureyri is relatively accessible — many restaurants, museums and key attractions are step-free, and the city centre is compact. Natural sites such as waterfalls, hiking trails and geothermal areas can be more challenging due to uneven terrain.

We recommend contacting specific attractions in advance. For accessible hotels and tourist attractions in Iceland, see sjalfsbjorg.is. The northiceland.is town guides can also help identify what is available in each area.

Where can I get free maps of North Iceland and the Mývatn region?

Free printed maps are available at tourist information centres, including the Visit Akureyri office at Hof Cultural Centre and information points at major hotels and guesthouses across the region.

Digital maps and downloadable PDFs are also available at northiceland.is, diamondcircle.is and arcticcoastway.is. Find your nearest tourist information centre at northiceland.is — Tourist Information Centres.

What do I need to know about driving a campervan or 4WD in North Iceland?

Ring Road 1 is fully paved and accessible to all vehicles year-round (subject to weather). Highland F-roads require a 4WD vehicle and are only open in summer — typically from June. F-roads are strictly off-limits to standard 2WD vehicles and campervans that are not proper 4WD.

Always check road.is for current conditions, closures and opening dates before setting off. See northiceland.is — Car Rentals.

What should I pack for a trip to North Iceland?

Whatever season you visit, layering is key. Essentials include a waterproof and windproof outer jacket, warm mid-layer, waterproof hiking boots and quick-dry base layers. In winter, add thermal undergarments, hat, gloves and a neck warmer. In summer, sunglasses are essential — especially during the midnight sun. Sunscreen is important even in overcast weather.

A swimsuit is a must for geothermal pools. Full packing guide at northiceland.is — What to Pack.

Where can I find short-term accommodation (1–3 months) in smaller North Iceland towns?

Short-term private rentals in smaller towns can be tricky to find online. We recommend checking local Facebook groups (search for the town name and community groups), Airbnb, and contacting local guesthouses directly to ask about extended stays.

The tourist information offices in each town are often well-connected locally and may know of private room rentals not listed online. See northiceland.is — Accommodation for a full list of options.

Is the tap water safe to drink in Iceland?

Yes — Icelandic tap water is some of the purest and best-tasting in the world, coming straight from glaciers and underground springs. There is absolutely no need to buy bottled water anywhere in Iceland.

Read more at northiceland.is — Icelandic Water.

When is the Knitting Festival in North Iceland?

The Icelandic Knitting Festival is held annually in Blönduós, typically in June. It is a wonderful celebration of Iceland's textile heritage, with workshops, market stalls, exhibitions and demonstrations of traditional Icelandic lopapeysa (wool sweater) craftsmanship.

Exact dates change each year — check northiceland.is — Crafts & Design for current information.

What is Réttir and how can I participate in the sheep round-up?

Réttir is Iceland's ancient annual sheep round-up, held every September when farmers and volunteers gather flocks from the mountain pastures where they have roamed freely all summer. It is one of Iceland's most authentic rural traditions and a wonderful experience to witness or join.

Many farms welcome curious visitors — the best way to participate is to contact farms or agricultural cooperatives in the area directly. For dates and more context, see northiceland.is — Culture & Heritage.

What are the Yule Lads and where can I experience them in North Iceland?

Iceland's 13 mischievous Christmas characters each arrive on a different night from December 12–24, leaving gifts for well-behaved children. Dimmuborgir at Lake Mývatn — their mythical home — hosts one of the country's most popular Yule Lad events each December, with daily visits from the different Lads in the dramatic lava landscape.

Akureyri is also beautifully decorated and incredibly festive throughout December, making the city a wonderful Christmas destination.
The Christmas house in Eyjafjarðarsveit (Akureyri Country Side) is also a locals favorite.

Is there a fishing or heritage festival in North Iceland?

Yes — Siglufjörður's Herring Festival (Síldarævintýri) celebrates the town's golden age as the "herring capital of the world" every first weekend of August, with live music, dancing, traditional foods and harbour activities. It is one of North Iceland's most beloved annual events.

The Herring Era Museum in Siglufjörður is well worth visiting year-round. Check northiceland.is — Events for exact dates.

Where and when are craft markets held in North Iceland?

Craft markets run throughout the year. Many craft markets are popular in summer, and Akureyri hosts Christmas markets in December filled with handmade goods, wool products, candles and local foods. Local handcraft shops are also very popular by Lake Mývatn and Hvammstangi. Individual guesthouses and farms also occasionally hold small markets during summer.

Check northiceland.is — Crafts & Design for current dates and locations.

Will North Iceland have events for the Total Solar Eclipse in August 2026?

The Total Solar Eclipse of August 12, 2026 passes next to North Iceland — a once-in-a-generation event. Akureyri and the surrounding area fall within the path of partial solar eclipse. Tours, viewing experiences and special events are already being planned, and this is expected to be one of the biggest events in Iceland's tourism history.

Book accommodation and tours as early as possible — demand is expected to be extremely high. Follow northiceland.is for the latest eclipse event announcements.

Are there super-jeep tours to the Highlands and Askja from Akureyri?

Yes — super-jeep day tours to Askja caldera in the central highlands are available from Akureyri, typically running from late June through September when the highland roads are open. The journey takes you across striking volcanic landscapes and is an unforgettable adventure.

Browse highland tour operators at northiceland.is — Jeep & Bus Tours.

Where can I buy authentic Icelandic wool products and local crafts in North Iceland?

Akureyri has several excellent shops selling authentic lopapeysa woolens and handmade crafts. The Textile Center (Textílmiðstöð Íslands) in Blönduós is a dedicated textile arts centre well worth a visit for anyone interested in Icelandic textile heritage. Many rural guesthouses and farms also sell handmade goods directly.

See northiceland.is — Crafts & Design for more options.

What cultural museums are worth visiting in North Iceland?

North Iceland has an impressive range of museums. Highlights include the Húsavík Whale Museum, the Herring Era Museum in Siglufjörður, the Folk Museum at Glaumbær (a beautifully preserved turf farm), Akureyri Museum, and the Icelandic Seal Centre in Hvammstangi.

See the full and up-to-date list at northiceland.is — Museums.

Do I need to book the Beer Spa in North Iceland in advance?

Yes — the Bjórböðin Beer Spa near Árskógssandur (a short drive from Akureyri) is very popular, especially with cruise visitors and in summer. It is a unique experience where you soak in warm beer-based baths while enjoying unlimited craft beer.

Booking well in advance is strongly recommended. Book directly at bjorbodin.is.