Akureyri — Capital of the North

Iceland's Most Charming Small Town

Akureyri (population: 19,000) is situated at the end of the Eyjafjörður, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, and has the charm of a Nordic picture-book town. Despite its size, it offers surprisingly much: Good restaurants, a botanical garden (the northernmost in the world!), a vibrant art scene, and an excellent ski area in winter.

A lovable detail: The traffic lights in Akureyri show a red heart instead of a red circle — introduced in 2008 during the financial crisis to lift spirits and remind people that everything will be alright. It became so popular that it stayed.

Sights

• Botanical Garden (Lystigarður Akureyrar): The northernmost botanical garden in the world (65°41'N) — and surprisingly lush. Over 7,000 plant species from around the world, including species from the Arctic, Himalayas, and Alps. Open June–September, free. The café in the garden serves cake and coffee in an idyllic setting
• Akureyrarkirkja: The church, consecrated in 1940, was designed by Guðjón Samúelsson (the same architect as the Hallgrímskirkja). The stained glass windows are from the famous English company Coventry Cathedral Studios — one window depicts the crucifixion, another originally from the old Coventry Cathedral survived its bombing in World War II. From the steps (112 steps), there is a beautiful view over the fjord
• Hof Cultural Center: Modern building at the harbor with concerts, exhibitions, and the city library. The panoramic view over the Eyjafjörður from the terrace is fantastic — a good place to enjoy the view with a coffee
• Brynja Ice Cream Parlor: The most famous ice cream parlor in Iceland — the soft serve with chocolate coating is cult! Since 1939, Icelanders from all over the country have been flocking here. In summer, there's a line, but it moves quickly. About 600 ISK (€4)
• Christmas House (Jólahúsið): A quirky, lovingly curated year-round Christmas shop, offering over 2,000 Christmas items, Icelandic candles, ornaments, and decorations. The 13 Icelandic Yule Lads (Jólasveinar) are lovingly explained here — they are not friendly Santa clones but mischievous troll children with names like "Door-Slammer," "Spoon-Licker," and "Candle-Stealer." Even if you're not usually a Christmas fan — this house is an experience
• Nonnahús: Birthplace of children's book author Jón Sveinsson (1857–1944), who became famous under the pseudonym "Nonni." His books have been translated into 40 languages. The small museum showcases his life and works

Whale Watching from Akureyri

Less known than Húsavík but also excellent: Whale watching tours depart from the harbor in Akureyri into the Eyjafjörður. The fjord location offers calmer seas than in Húsavík, and the sighting rate is over 95% in summer. Mainly humpback whales feeding in the sheltered fjord. Providers: Elding and Ambassador, from 12,000 ISK (€80).

Hlíðarfjall Ski Area

Only 10 minutes from Akureyri: The best ski area in Iceland with 23 slopes (up to 1,000m high), lift system, and often better snow than in the Alps. Season: November–May (sometimes until June!). Day pass: about 6,900 ISK (€46). In spring, you can combine skiing under the midnight sun with whale watching the next morning — where else can you do that?