Akureyri

Although it’s home to only about 20,000 souls, Iceland’s second biggest city is often referred to as the capital of northern Iceland. A functioning port and fishing center, it has a surprisingly lively infrastructure with a slew of chic and traditional cafés and restaurants, art galleries, and even a nightclub, along with a fairly regular calendar of cultural events. Local sights to explore include the Akureyri Botanical Garden and Akureyri Art Museum, and the town is also a great base for day trips to Hrísey Island, Grímsey, Húsavík (where you can go whale-watching), and the otherworldly terrain of Lake Mývatn.

These mohawked ponies are everywhere in Iceland. If you have time, I recommend a trip abound the entire country. Whether you rent a car or hitchhike, you won’t regret spending some time in this gorgeous place.

One of the prettiest towns we saw in Iceland. We had a nice, relaxing walk in the center, enjoying the beautiful and colorful houses and cafes. We did not spend enough time there to really discover it but it’s very nice place, quiet and very pleasing to a traveler’s eye.

My husband and I traveled around the periphery of Iceland (on Ring Road) over a 9-day trip this summer. We started our trip from Reykjavik, driving south (anti-clockwise) and by this time on our 6th day in the country we were in a city called Akuriyeri in Northern Iceland. It is a very friendly city located in northern fjords. These beautiful Icelandic girls in their Lopapeysa sweaters and hats were offering free Christmas ale in July. We had some along with cod liver oil (you read it right) and blood sausages and thus became a part of some tourist-project. I think a part of Iceland’s charm is its super friendly residents.

My husband and I traveled around the periphery of Iceland (on Ring Road) over a 9-day trip this summer. We started our trip from Reykjavik, driving south (anti-clockwise) and by this time on our 6th day in the country we were in a city called Akuriyeri in Northern Iceland. A super friendly town, located in beautiful northern fjords where traffic lights are heart-shaped. What’s not to love! :)

Akureyri is such a quaint little town in Northern Iceland. I liked walking around at night time in the snow. It is safe and easy to get around.

Aurora borealis over a bridge just outside Akureyri in the winter.

I would recommend walking around Akureyri at night or early morning. Simply magnificent! You may catch school children walking through the snow to get to the bus. Or you may catch runners (yes, hardcore runners) running up the main hill at night.

Located in Ingimarshus, one of the oldest houses in the heart of town, Kaffi Ilmur will serve light fare and drinks as well as tradition and history. On the menu you will find soups of the day and a salad bar, sandwiches, gourmet coffees and cakes. Various other sweets as well as hot and cold drinks and light alcoholic beverages. I was attracted by the beautiful colors :)