Explore 20 captivating sights and activities in Akureyri, Iceland:
Funky Akureyri: A Vibrant Hub for Fun Seekers in Northern Iceland
EMPTY MAG'S GUIDE TO HAVING A BALL IN AKUREYRI
1. Jólagarðurinn
Winter wonderland, all year round! Visit Jólagarðurinn, a red house adorned with Christmas and candy decorations, right in the middle of lush green grass. It's a whimsical, sunny world of Christmas! Just a 10-minute drive from the city center, it's a must-visit for those who crave Christmas cheer all year round.
2. Kjarnaskógur Forest
This woodland marvel boasts short hiking trails and spectacular playgrounds, making it the perfect family destination for the day, or a weekend retreat with the exciting addition of camping facilities! Kjarnaskógur is just a stone's throw away from the city center.
3. Brynjúis Ice Cream
Indulge in Iceland's favorite ice cream shop! Brynjúis offers a unique blend that's milky and astonishingly cold. With endless praise, it's among the country's most cherished sweet treats.
4. Sundlaugar Akureyrar (Akureyri Swimming Pool)
A quick stroll from the town's heart, Sundlaugar Akureyrar is a kid-friendly haven, brimming with water slides, paddling pools, toys, and all the fun you could ask for. Even though Icelanders don't mind a splash of snow in their swim, there's always a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
5. Hliðarfjall Ski Slopes
Home to some of the most popular winter sports events in Iceland, Hliðarfjall ski slopes offer an incredible view of Akureyri. It's a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts all over the country, thanks to its fantastic winter sports opportunities and the annual Iceland Winter Games and AK Extreme tournaments.
6. Jaðarsvöllur (Jaðar Golf Course)
How about a midnight hole-in-one? Jaðarsvöllur is the world's northernmost 18-hole golf course, bursting with mystery and excitement as it hosts an annual, midnight tournament under the Midnight Sun.
7. Akureyri Botanic Garden (Lystigarður Akureyrar)
Discover a surprising oasis of flora and fauna in the heart of Akureyri. With an impressive array of greenery, the Akureyri Botanic Garden manages to thrive amidst the city despite its high-latitude location.
8. Festivals
Akureyri hosts a myriad of festivals all year round, catering to all tastes! From the Vaka Folk Art Festival to the Akureyri Motor Events (a car lover's dream), the Akureyrarvaka family-oriented event, and the exhilarating Iceland Summer Games showcasing extreme sports, there's something for everyone.
9. Museums
Immerse yourself in a world of whimsy and wonder as you explore the unusual collection of museums in Akureyri. Be captivated by the Akureyri Museum of Industry, The Old Toy Display, The Motorcycle Museum, The Aviation Museum, and the Icelandic Folk and Outsider Museum.
10. Akureyri Art Museum
The artistic heart of Akureyri proudly showcases a diverse and captivating collection of exhibitions that reflect the city's lively art scene. A visit to this museum is an absolute must for art enthusiasts.
11. Junk Food
Akureyri has a unique relationship with junk food, where everything from hot dogs to burgers gets a local spin, featuring pickled red cabbage, Icelandic cocktail sauce, and even French fries sandwiched between a burger!
12. Skautaholl Akureyrar
Catch an ice hockey game at Skautaholl Akureyrar, the only team from outside of Reykjavik, which consistently stands among the best in Iceland. If you'd rather cool off during the heat of summer, consider ice skating on the frozen rink!
13. Græni Hatturinn
Feed your music cravings at Græni Hatturinn, a concert venue tucked into an alley in Akureyri's downtown district. With almost nightly shows featuring an impressive variety of genres, this hotspot is a must-visit for music lovers from all over North Iceland.
14. Akureyrarkirkja
Capture the essence of Akureyri at Akureyrarkirkja Church, a striking landmark built in 1940. Marvel at the church's stunning windows, some of which were salvaged from St. Michaels Church in Coventry, England, which survived a Nazi bombing in World War II.
15. Goengugatan
Stroll through Goengugatan, Akureyri's pedestrian street, brimming with interesting shops and cafes that invite exploration and relaxation.
16. Hiking
Scaling Súlur Mountain offers a challenging but rewarding hike with panoramic views of Akureyri on a clear day. For a more leisurely adventure, explore the fjord's hiking trails surrounded by majestic peaks.
17. Hof Cultural Centre
Experience Harpa's sister venue, Hof, a cultural hub offering an array of concerts, plays, artistic exhibitions, and more. Savor a delectable meal at the top-notch restaurant situated within Hof.
18. Diving
Explore the underwater wonders of Eyjafjordur, including diving at Strýtur and Arnarnesstrýtur, where warm mineral-rich water gushes from the ocean’s bed. With both accessible and more challenging diving opportunities, there's something for all levels.
19. Pollurinn
Discover Pollurinn, a pond ideal for an easy day out in Akureyri. The picturesque scenery and diverse birdlife make it a serene spot for unwinding.
20. Day Trips
Akureyri is the perfect base for day trips, allowing you to explore the breathtaking landscapes of North Iceland, such as the geological wonders at Lake Myvatn and the striking beauty of Godafoss Waterfall. Don't miss the charming town of Siglufjordur, nestled along the northern coast, and consider stopping at a beer spa for a truly relaxing experience. For a thrilling adventure, embark on a river rafting excursion in Skagafjordur or try your hand at heli-skiing and snowmobiling. The possibilities are endless!
** News **
"Savor Iceland's Favorite Ice Cream at Brynjúis as they launch a new, exotic flavor inspired by the local culture and lifestyle."
** Travel **
"For those seeking the ultimate Christmas experience all year round, Akureyri introduces a new tour at Jölagarðurinn, offering unique and festive travel experiences."
** Travel, Culture **
"Discover the Northern Hemisphere's cultural melting pot at Akureyri's Hof Cultural Centre, showcasing an array of exhibitions, concerts, and plays that reflect its vibrant lifestyle and heritage."
** Weather, Lifestyle **
"The summer season brings not only warm weather but also the unique phenomenon of midnight golf at Jaðarsvöllur, as well as ice skating in the heart of the city at Skautaholl Akureyrar."
** Culture **
"Explore Iceland's rich history and creative spirit at Akureyri's variety of museums, where the Akureyri Art Museum stands as the cultural heart of the city."
