Definitive Guide: Akureyri, Iceland Cruise Port Stop

Often referred to as the capital of the north, Akureyri sits at the base of the Eyjafjörður Fjord. It is Iceland’s second largest city with 19,000 residents and is known for its cultural attractions and the incredible surrounding natural wonders.

LOGISTICS

MONEY MATTERS

Credit cards were widely accepted (we were able to use Visa and Mastercard throughout Iceland but I couldn’t always use my AMEX). We found that other than for tipping in local currency, we didn’t need to carry cash (ie tipping guides on already paid tours). Speaking of which, Iceland is similar to Norway in that tipping is not obligatory with high/living wages and strong workers laws so there isn’t a need for a tipping culture (vs in the US where workers are reliant upon tips as part of their salary). It’s a gesture of appreciation to tip if you receive great service so I still do so when it’s warranted.

COMMUNICATION

English is widely spoken throughout Iceland.

PORT INFO

_{BEAUTIFUL TIP: Reminder that arrival times for port days are estimates for when the ship will be docked and may not be when the port has given approval to the ship to allow passengers to get off. IF the activity start time is close to arrival times, I will always reach out the activity/tour provider and find out exactly what their policy is if I am not able to be there on time. I have found that many operators are flexible especially if the majority/all of the participants are from the cruise ship but some may not be able to accommodate late arrivals with no refund given. Whilst both scenarios are valid business practices, don’t make the mistake of finding out it’s the latter when you aren’t able to join!}

Hop On Hop Off Bus

Stops include Akureyri cruise port / Glerártorg shopping center / Akureyri Swimming Pool / Akureyri Botanical Garden / Nonnahús

Taxis

An expensive but convenient way to get around. BSO taxi stand is close to the cruise terminal (650 meters / 10-12 minute walk) Note that there are set prices that are prominently displayed.

TOP ATTRACTIONS/POINTS OF INTEREST

Akureyri Botanical Gardens (Lystigarður Akureyrar)

Within Akureyri: 1.7 kilometers / 25-30 min walk from cruise port. One of the most Northernmost gardens in the world located just 50 km south of the Arctic circle. Within walking distance from cruise port and it’s free! – The Akureyri Botanical Gardens are a tranquil retreat in the heart of the town. Home to over 7,000 plant species, this lush garden is a peaceful escape for nature lovers and a wonderful place to stroll. The gardens are especially known for their diverse collection of native and non-native plants, offering a serene experience throughout the year.

Forest Lagoon

Within Akureyri: 4.2 kilometers / 6 min drive from cruise port Read my comprehensive guide here for all of the details

Iceland is known as the land of fire and ice due to the number of volcanoes and glaciers located on the island. One of the most enjoyable things is to go to a lagoon and take a dip in the geothermal heated water which is a truly must do experience the country (in the same way you should sauna when visiting Finland or eat pasta and gelato in Italy – I don’t make the rules folks but I gladly will follow these ones). In Akureyri, there is an especially wonderful lagoon you can visit (and probably my favorite geothermal spa in Iceland)

Why is Forest Lagoon my favorite? Location (this is multi-fold: ease to get to with proximity to Akureyri and amazing setting overlooking Eyjafjörður), design (aesthetics of the lagoon and amenities and also of where the lagoon was placed) and overall vibe.

Whale Watching from Downtown Akureryi

Chose a fast paced RIB boat or a more comfortable ride on a larger boat as you look for humpbacks + other whales watching in the calm waters of Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord – this is what our whale watching experience was like

Goðafoss

Outside of Akureyri: Goðafoss is one of the biggest waterfalls in Iceland and flows over a 98 feet (30-meter) wide horseshoe-shaped rock that rises in the center separating the waterfall in two. One section is about 30 feet (9 M) and the second is 55 feet (17-meters) high – here is how we got to the waterfall and what the experience was like 

Lake Myvatn Area + Nature Baths

Outside of Akureyri: The drive here is GORGEOUS besides when you’re in Iceland, you definitely should visit a geothermal bath! Bonus is that this lagoon has water that is colored similarly to the Blue Lagoon but with significantly less people and better views. Lake Myvatn lies 50 miles (80 kilometers) from Akureyri and is one of Iceland’s beautiful natural wonders, known for its geothermal activity, volcanic features, and rich birdlife. The area is a haven for nature lovers, and visitors can explore the lake’s bubbling mud pools, steam vents, and lava formations before relaxing in the Myvatn Nature Baths. 

OTHER ATTRACTIONS/POINTS OF INTERESTS

Akureyrarkirkja (Akureyri Lutheran Church)

Within Akureyri: 1.1 kilometers / 17-21 min walk from cruise port (City Bus Route stop close by/ HOHO bus stop / taxi) One of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks, Akureyrarkirkja Church, is an impressive example of Icelandic architecture, designed by renowned architect Guðjón Samúelsson. Inspired by Iceland’s basalt rock formations, the church’s distinctive facade makes it a must-see for visitors. With its tall steeple and intricate design, the church offers architectural beauty and views of the surrounding town and fjord.

Akureyri Art Museum

Within town: 1.1 kilometers / 17-20 min walk from cruise port Opened in 1993, the Akureyri Art Museum is a cornerstone of the town’s cultural offerings, showcasing contemporary Icelandic art in a variety of mediums

Akureyri Hearts/Stoplights

Within town: 700 meters / 10-12 min walk from cruise port. Located all throughout the town but do not block traffic to take a picture – there is one that is located near the HOF that offers this picturesque background

Akureyri Museum

Within town: 1.3 kilometers / 21-25 min walk from cruise port The Akureyri Museum is a perfect stop for those interested in exploring the town’s history. It offers a deep dive into Akureyri’s story of settlement, growth, and development, providing context for how the town became the vibrant cultural hub it is today. Through its exhibits, visitors can learn about the early settlers and Akureyri’s evolution over time.

Akureyri Swimming Pool

Within town: 1.3 kilometers / 21-25 min walk from cruise port The Akureyri swimming pool for families with two heated outdoor swimming pools, five hot tubs, children’s pool, steam bath, cold pool and three water slides

HOF Cultural Center (Tourist Information Center)

Within town: 550 meters / 8-10 min walk from cruise terminal . The Hof Cultural Center is a modern venue in Akureyri that plays a key role in the town’s cultural scene. Hosting concerts, exhibitions, and a wide range of cultural events throughout the year, Hof is a hub for both locals and visitors to experience live performances and artistic showcases. Its contemporary design makes it a striking addition to Akureyri’s cultural landscape.

EAT/DRINK

LYST Cafe

While exploring the gardens, make sure to stop by LYST, one of the best cafes in Akureyri, located nearby. With its cozy atmosphere and delicious offerings, LYST is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a coffee or light meal after your visit to the gardens.

July 2024 visit, I spent $19.60/2700 ISK on this breakfast: Latte 900 ISK + Avocado Toast 1800 ISK

Café inside Penninn Bookstore

I always visit this place when I go to Akureyri and here’s my go to coffee order: flat white. Pro tip if you are here when it’s available:the pumpkin spice latte is the best I have EVER had

Moe’s Food Truck

SAIL IN/OUT

As you are sailing to and from Akureyri through Eyjafjörður, there may be a chance that you can see whales from your cruise ship. I was extremely lucky and experienced this while aboard HAL’s Nieuw Statendam!

RELATED AKUREYRI POSTS

NCL Prima

How I spent my port day whilst on a family cruise

Holland American Nieuw Statendam

Here’s how I spent the two port days on this cruise

Forest Lagoon

Comprehensive Guide to Forest Lagoon

Related Cruise Port Guides

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Reykjavík, Iceland

Ålesund, Norway

All My Cruise Port Guides

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