East Iceland is one of the country’s most remote and untouched regions, known for its dramatic fjords, quiet fishing villages, and rugged mountain landscapes. Far less crowded than the South Coast, it offers a peaceful and authentic Icelandic experience. The region is home to scenic drives, wildlife such as reindeer, and charming towns like Seyðisfjörður and Egilsstaðir. With its winding coastal roads and striking natural beauty, East Iceland is ideal for travelers seeking solitude and raw Arctic scenery.

List of popular destinations in East Iceland

  • Egilsstaðir
  • Seyðisfjörður
  • Reyðarfjörður
  • Neskaupstaður
  • Djúpivogur
  • Hallormsstaðaskógur
  • Hengifoss
  • Vök Baths
  • Mjóifjörður
  • Borgarfjörður Eystri

List of things to do at East Iceland

  • Drive along the scenic Eastfjords coastline with dramatic mountain and fjord views.
  • Visit Seyðisfjörður and explore its colorful houses, harbor, and famous rainbow street.
  • Hike to Hengifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, known for its striking red rock layers.
  • Relax in geothermal floating pools at Vök Baths near Egilsstaðir.
  • Explore Hallormsstaðaskógur, Iceland’s largest forest, with walking trails and picnic areas.
  • Spot wild reindeer roaming in the eastern highlands during certain seasons.
  • Visit Borgarfjörður Eystri for puffin watching in summer and peaceful hiking routes.
  • Discover small fishing villages like Djúpivogur for a quiet coastal experience.
  • Explore hidden fjords such as Mjóifjörður with remote and untouched scenery.
  • Enjoy Northern Lights viewing in winter due to minimal light pollution.

Where should tourists stay at East Iceland for smooth tour?

  • Stay in Egilsstaðir as it is the main service hub of East Iceland with supermarkets, restaurants, fuel stations, and easy road connectivity.
  • Choose Seyðisfjörður for a scenic fjord-side stay with colorful streets and a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Stay near Höfn if combining East Iceland with the South Coast and Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.
  • Consider accommodations around the Eastfjords coastline for quieter countryside stays and fjord views.
  • Select hotels near Route 1 (Ring Road) to ensure smooth onward travel toward North Iceland or back toward South Iceland.
  • Choose guesthouses or boutique countryside lodges for a more authentic and relaxed East Iceland experience.

List of Iceland tour itineraries including East Iceland ?

11 Day Iceland tour - Reykjavik, Selfoss, Vik, Hofn, Egilsstadir, Mývatn, Akureyri & Borgarnes 11 Day Iceland tour - Reykjavik, Selfoss, Vik, Hofn, Egilsstadir, Mývatn, Akureyri & Borgarnes

11 Day Iceland tour – Reykjavik, Selfoss, Vik, Hofn, Egilsstadir, Mývatn, Akureyri & Borgarnes

Jökulsárlón, Iceland

6 Reviews
10N/11D
from €5.600.00
8 Day Iceland Ring road tour with private car & driver 8 Day Iceland Ring road tour with private car & driver

8 Day Iceland Ring road tour with private car & driver

Akureyri, Iceland

7 Reviews
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from €5.000.00
10 Day Iceland Ring road tour with private car & driver 10 Day Iceland Ring road tour with private car & driver

10 Day Iceland Ring road tour with private car & driver

Jökulsárlón, Iceland

7 Reviews
9N/10D
from €5.400.00
9 Day Iceland tour in a private cab with driver 9 Day Iceland tour in a private cab with driver

9 Day Iceland tour with private car & driver

Jökulsárlón, Iceland

6 Reviews
8N/9D
from €5.200.00

Frequently asked question about East Iceland?

East Iceland lies along the eastern coastline of the country, stretching from the glacier areas near Höfn up to the northern fjords.

Yes, East Iceland offers dramatic fjords, quiet fishing villages, scenic drives, and fewer crowds compared to the South Coast.

Most travelers spend 1 to 2 nights exploring the Eastfjords region, depending on their Ring Road itinerary.

It is known for its rugged fjords, colorful town of Seyðisfjörður, wild reindeer, scenic coastal roads, and peaceful landscapes.

No, it is one of the least crowded regions in Iceland, making it ideal for travelers seeking solitude and off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Yes, but winter road conditions can be challenging due to snow and mountain passes. Weather updates should always be checked.

Yes, East Iceland offers excellent Northern Lights viewing opportunities because of minimal light pollution.

In summer, main roads are accessible with a standard vehicle. In winter, a 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended for safety.