Akureyri, North IcelandÓlafsfjörður, North IcelandDalvík, North IcelandSiglufjörður, North IcelandHúsavík, North Iceland

North Iceland is a region of dramatic fjords, volcanic landscapes, and quieter roads far from the crowds of the south. Centered around Akureyri, often called the capital of the north, the area blends small-town charm with powerful natural scenery. Visitors come here for whale watching, geothermal areas, lava fields, and thundering waterfalls like Dettifoss and Goðafoss. With wide open spaces and fewer tourists, North Iceland offers a more peaceful and authentic side of the country.

List of major destinations covered in North Iceland​

  • Akureyri
  • Húsavík
  • Siglufjörður
  • Dalvík
  • Ólafsfjörður

List of amazing places to see in North Iceland

  • Akureyri – A charming fjord-side town known for cafés, botanical gardens, and cultural attractions.
  • Húsavík – Famous as Iceland’s whale watching capital with excellent marine life tours.
  • Goðafoss – The “Waterfall of the Gods,” one of the most beautiful and easily accessible waterfalls in the region.
  • Dettifoss – Europe’s most powerful waterfall, known for its dramatic force and scale.
  • Mývatn – A volcanic lake area surrounded by lava fields, pseudocraters, and geothermal landscapes.
  • Námaskarð – A colorful geothermal field with steaming vents and bubbling mud pools.
  • Ásbyrgi Canyon – A horseshoe-shaped canyon with dramatic cliffs and walking trails.
  • Eyjafjörður – Iceland’s longest fjord offering scenic drives and peaceful coastal views.
  • Grímsey – A small island located on the Arctic Circle, accessible by ferry or flight.
  • Siglufjörður – A picturesque fishing town surrounded by mountains and rich maritime history.

List of itineraries including North 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
7N/8D
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 questions about North Iceland

Yes, North Iceland offers dramatic waterfalls, geothermal areas, fjords, and whale watching with fewer crowds than the South Coast. It is ideal for travelers looking for quieter, more authentic landscapes.

Most travelers reach Akureyri by a 5–6 hour drive from Reykjavik along the Ring Road or by a short domestic flight (about 45 minutes).

A minimum of 2 to 3 days is recommended to explore Akureyri, Lake Mývatn, Goðafoss, and Húsavík comfortably.

Yes, but winter conditions can be snowy and daylight is limited. Roads are maintained, but guided or well-planned travel is recommended during colder months.

It is known for whale watching in Húsavík, the volcanic landscapes around Lake Mývatn, and powerful waterfalls like Dettifoss and Goðafoss.

Yes, it generally receives fewer tourists than South Iceland, especially outside peak summer months.

Yes, North Iceland offers excellent Northern Lights viewing opportunities from September to March, particularly in areas away from town lights.

Yes, many attractions are accessible with short walks, and activities like whale watching and geothermal baths make it suitable for families.