Iceland is usually compared to a dream place with stunning landscapes that came out of an epic medieval movie, it’s one of its main charms but did you know that Akureyri, the north capital of the country, with its imposing mountains, crystal clear water, and relaxed atmosphere, offers a ton of unique things to do that can make any holiday even more perfect!

Akureyri is not only another city in Iceland, it’s a place full of contrast: wild nature, vibrant culture and welcoming people that will make you feel like home. It’s also a lot less popular, and more quiet than Reykjavik. This means that you won’t find huge crowds and still be able to enjoy what Iceland has to offer.

Stroll Around the Historic Center of Akureyri

The first thing you need to do as soon as you get there is to visit the Historic Center, stroll around a bit, explore the area, and take in the stunning landscape.

The city center may be small, but it’s packed with charm. Colorful houses, local stores, and coffee shops make it perfect for a relaxing walk. Make sure you visit the Akureyri church, which is an icon of the city.

It’s also a good opportunity to check out stores, buy local products, and immerse yourself in the culture. You’ll find wool products, jewelry made with lava stones, and other handicrafts!

Explore Akureyri Botanical Garden

Your next stop should be the botanical garden. It may surprise you how different and interesting the flora is. It’s also one of the northernmost botanical gardens in the world. You can stroll among exotic flowers, local plants, and leafy trees...but the best the best part is that the admission is free.

This garden is not only beautiful but also educational. There is a section dedicated to Icelandic native plants, where you can learn about their importance in the country's culture and history.

Also, campers in Iceland are highly popular and if you’re driving one, don’t worry, the Garden has a huge parking lot!

Check out the Geothermal Pools

Did you know that Iceland is famous for its hot springs? In Akureyri, you can relax in the local thermal baths, which are less crowded than those at the Blue Lagoon.

For some reason, the hot springs here hit differently. The contrast of the snowy mountains with the hot water makes it a unique experience.

Just a few minutes from Akureyri, you'll find the Forest Lagoon. It's a perfect place to relax after a day of exploring (but if you are looking for cheaper options, head to Akureyri Geothermal Pools).

Book a Whale watching Tour

Akureyri is one of the best places in the world to spot whales since it offers a high chance of actually seeing a whale. It’s also one of those activities that you need to do at least one time in your life. It's an experience you'll never forget!

There are many agencies that offer this tour to see these giants of the sea up close.

Also, many of those companies in Akureyri focus on responsible tourism, making sure not to disturb the animals. So, in addition to enjoying yourself, you'll be contributing to the conservation of these species.