Tours & Day Trips from Akureyri

Akureyri is the natural gateway to North Iceland — a compact, walkable town at the head of Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord, and only about 100 km from the Arctic Circle. Despite its northern position it enjoys one of the mildest climates in the country, and it sits within easy reach of some of Iceland’s most dramatic waterfalls, geothermal fields, volcanic landscapes and whale-rich waters.

Whether you’re arriving by domestic flight, driving the Ring Road, or stepping off a cruise ship at the port, Akureyri is the ideal base for a day of sightseeing. Below are the trips most worth your time, along with practical details to help you plan.

The Diamond Circle

The Diamond Circle is North Iceland’s answer to the south’s famous Golden Circle — a roughly 250 km (155-mile) loop linking the region’s signature sights. It’s the single best way to see the most in one full day from Akureyri.

The five key stops are:

  • Goðafoss — the “Waterfall of the Gods.” Glacial water spills over a graceful curved ledge about 12 m high and 30 m wide. It’s the closest major attraction to Akureyri (around 35 km, a 40-minute drive) and a natural first stop. The site is tied to Iceland’s conversion to Christianity around the year 1000.
  • Lake Mývatn — a volcanic and geothermal wonderland of pseudo-craters, lava formations at Dimmuborgir, the steaming mud pots and fumaroles of Námaskarð (Hverir), and abundant birdlife.
  • Dettifoss — one of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe, with a 44 m drop and a thunderous flow you can feel as much as see.
  • Ásbyrgi Canyon — a vast horseshoe-shaped canyon with cliffs up to 100 m high. Norse legend says it was formed by the hoof of Odin’s eight-legged horse, Sleipnir.
  • Húsavík — Iceland’s whale-watching capital, a charming harbour town on Skjálfandi Bay.

A full Diamond Circle is a long but rewarding single day; with more time, it’s easily split across two days to allow for hikes, a soak in the Mývatn Nature Baths, or a whale-watching boat trip.

Goðafoss & Lake Mývatn

If a full Diamond Circle is more than you have time for, a half- or full-day trip to Goðafoss and the Lake Mývatn area delivers a huge amount of variety without a punishing drive. You’ll see the waterfall, then explore Mývatn’s geothermal landscapes — the Dimmuborgir lava labyrinth, the bubbling mud pots at Hverir, the Skútustaðir pseudo-craters, and the Grjótagjá lava cave. It’s an excellent choice for travellers with limited time, including many cruise passengers.

Goðafoss Waterfall

Whale watching from Húsavík

About an hour from Akureyri, Húsavík is one of the best places in Europe to see whales. Boats head out into Skjálfandi Bay in search of humpbacks, minke whales, dolphins and, with luck, orcas. Paired with a scenic drive past Goðafoss, a transfer to Húsavík makes for a memorable day on the water. Whale watching is best from roughly April through October, with peak activity in summer.

Whale Watching in Húsavík

Akureyri city & Eyjafjörður

You don’t have to travel far to fill a worthwhile half-day. Closer to town you’ll find:

  • Akureyri’s botanical garden, town centre, museums, cafés and the landmark Akureyrarkirkja church.
  • Laufás — a beautifully preserved turf-house farm that offers a window into rural Icelandic life.
  • Scenic fjord viewpoints overlooking Akureyri and Eyjafjörður — ideal photo stops.

This is a particularly good option for a short cruise stop or for travellers wanting a gentler pace.

Old Laufás Farm

When to visit

North Iceland rewards visitors year-round, with each season offering something different:

  • Summer (June–August): Long daylight and the midnight sun, ideal for whale watching, hiking and full-day touring. Best road access to all Diamond Circle stops.
  • Autumn & winter (September–March): Northern Lights season, snowy landscapes, and a quieter, more atmospheric experience. Some routes require careful timing and the right vehicle — another reason to leave the driving to a local.
  • Spring (April–May): Returning wildlife, lengthening days, and fewer crowds.

How it works with Hreyfill

Hreyfill has been a trusted taxi station and tour operator since 1943. We arrange comfortable, driver-guided trips and transfers in North Iceland, tailored to your interests and your schedule.

  • Hotel, guesthouse and cruise-terminal pickup in and around Akureyri.
  • Private vehicles sized for couples, families and small groups.
  • Flexible, custom itineraries — combine attractions, adjust your pace, or add stops.
  • Cruise-friendly timing designed to get you back to the ship on time.

Dettifoss in north Iceland

Book your Akureyri day trip

Ready to explore North Iceland? Get in touch and we’ll help you plan the perfect day.

Frequently asked questions

Which day trip from Akureyri is best if I only have one day? The Diamond Circle covers the most ground and the widest variety of sights. If you’d prefer a more relaxed pace, the Goðafoss & Lake Mývatn trip is an excellent shorter alternative.

I’m arriving by cruise ship — can you collect me at the port? Yes. We offer pickup and drop-off directly at the Akureyri cruise terminal and build itineraries around your ship’s departure time.

Can the itinerary be customised? Absolutely. Private trips let you set the pace, choose your stops and adjust the route to match your interests.

Is it worth visiting in winter? Very much so. Winter brings the Northern Lights and striking snowy landscapes. With an experienced local driver, the main sights remain accessible in the colder months.