Welcome to Akureyri Port

Welcome to Akureyri, the vibrant heart of northern Iceland. Nestled at the end of Iceland’s longest fjord, Eyjafjörður, Akureyri is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, charming streets, and cultural attractions. Cruise passengers typically have 6-10 hours to explore the town and its surroundings, making Akureyri an ideal port of call. Whether you’re seeking dramatic waterfalls, lush botanical gardens, or unique Icelandic cuisine, Akureyri offers a memorable experience for every visitor.

Port Information and Docking

Cruise ships visiting Akureyri dock at Oddeyrarbryggja Pier, which is located just 600 meters (0.4 miles) from the town center. Akureyri is a docking port, so passengers can disembark directly from the ship onto the pier. The port is one of Iceland’s busiest outside of Reykjavík, with over 150,000 cruise passengers arriving annually. Akureyri is a popular destination due to its proximity to some of Iceland’s most spectacular natural wonders, and visitors often spend their time exploring the town’s cultural sites or embarking on day trips to nearby attractions.

Getting to the City Center

The city center of Akureyri is easily accessible from the cruise terminal. Here are a few options for getting around:

• Walking: The town center is just a 10-minute walk from the pier, making it easy to explore on foot.
• Taxis: Taxis are available at the port for those who prefer a quicker or more comfortable journey to town or nearby attractions.
• Public Buses: Akureyri has a reliable public bus system, and the main bus stop is located in the town center, providing access to various parts of the town and nearby areas.

For those looking to explore outside of Akureyri, the nearby town of Húsavík (91 km / 57 miles) is reachable by car in about 1.5 hours and is famous for its whale-watching opportunities.

Top Attractions in Akureyri

Akureyri offers a variety of attractions that showcase Iceland’s natural beauty and rich cultural history. Here are the top five places to visit:

• Akureyri Botanical Gardens: These lush gardens feature over 7,000 plant species, including many native to the Arctic. Free to enter, it’s a peaceful place to stroll and admire the greenery.
• Akureyri Church (Akureyrarkirkja): This striking modernist church, designed by Icelandic architect Guðjón Samúelsson, offers panoramic views over the town and fjord. Entry is free.
• Godafoss Waterfall: Located 45 kilometers (28 miles) from Akureyri, this majestic waterfall is one of Iceland’s most famous natural landmarks. Free to visit.
• Akureyri Art Museum: A small but impressive museum showcasing Icelandic contemporary art. Admission is ISK 1,200 (about $9 USD).
• Whale Watching Tours: Set sail on a whale-watching adventure from Akureyri harbor, where you can spot humpback whales and other marine life. Tours start at around ISK 11,000 ($80 USD) per person.

Local Cuisine

Akureyri’s cuisine reflects Iceland’s traditional flavors with a modern twist. Some local dishes to try include:

• Plokkfiskur: A traditional Icelandic fish stew made from boiled fish, potatoes, and béchamel sauce, often served with rye bread.
• Lamb Soup: Icelandic lamb is known for its exceptional flavor, and lamb soup is a hearty, comforting dish available at many local restaurants.
• Skyr: A thick, creamy dairy product similar to yogurt but with a milder flavor, often served with fruit and honey.
• Icelandic Hot Dogs: Made with a blend of lamb, beef, and pork, Icelandic hot dogs are a popular snack served with mustard, onions, and remoulade.
• Rye Bread Ice Cream: A unique Icelandic dessert made with sweet rye bread crumbs and creamy ice cream.

Interesting Facts About Akureyri

• Akureyri is known as the "Capital of the North," serving as the largest town in northern Iceland with a population of just over 19,000.
• Despite its location near the Arctic Circle, Akureyri enjoys a surprisingly mild climate, thanks to the warming influence of the Gulf Stream.
• During summer, Akureyri experiences nearly 24 hours of daylight, allowing visitors to explore well into the evening.

Geographical Surroundings and Scenic Views

Akureyri is located at the head of Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord, providing stunning views of snow-capped mountains and the North Atlantic Ocean. The town is surrounded by green hills in summer and snowy peaks in winter, making it a year-round scenic destination. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the fjord’s rich marine life, including whales, seals, and seabirds. In the surrounding areas, the landscape offers volcanic craters, geothermal hot springs, and vast lava fields, creating a dramatic backdrop to your visit.

Historical and Cultural Insights

Akureyri has a rich history dating back to its establishment in the 9th century, but it began to develop as a significant town in the 18th century due to its strategic location for trade. The town has a vibrant cultural scene, with frequent music festivals, art exhibitions, and theatrical performances. Icelandic folklore plays an important role in local culture, with stories of elves and hidden people adding a magical touch to the region. Akureyri’s history is also closely tied to Iceland’s fishing industry, which continues to be a vital part of the town’s economy.

Local Customs and Tips

When visiting Akureyri, it’s important to respect local customs. Icelanders value sustainability and environmental responsibility, so be mindful of waste and recycling. It’s customary to greet people with a friendly “Góðan daginn” (Good day) when entering shops or restaurants. Tipping is not required in Iceland, as service charges are typically included in the bill. However, rounding up to the nearest amount is always appreciated.

Family-Friendly Activities

• Children up to 6 years: Visit the Akureyri Swimming Pool, featuring heated outdoor pools, slides, and a children’s play area.
• Children 7 to 12 years: Explore the Akureyri Botanical Gardens, where kids can discover unique Arctic plants and enjoy the open green spaces.
• Teenagers 13 to 18 years: Older children will love whale watching tours or horseback riding through the scenic countryside on Icelandic horses.

Google Maps

Akureyri Port

Notice: Content and travel advice presented is created by a port moderator and/or AI, courtesy of ChatGPT. It is specifically designed for cruise passengers visiting this port of call. A port moderator could be a local individual, destination expert, port authority, or a tourism agency. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we recommend that you verify critical information like visas, health and safety, customs, and transportation with official sources before departure. Always familiarize yourself with safety aspects when visiting your destination. We have given some pointers under the information button in the main menu of this app.