Akureyri, Iceland Cruise Port Guide: What To Do in Port
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Your guide to visiting Akureyri, Iceland on a cruise stop. This northern town is easy to explore, packed with attractions, and has some of the best day tours in the country.
Akureyri, Iceland Cruise Terminal Guide: (Jump To)
Akureyri YouTube Guide
Watch our full YouTube vlog from our port day ashore.
How To Get To The City Center From the Akureyri, Iceland Port
The Akureyri Cruise Terminal is right on the edge of the city center, so you can walk off the ship and be downtown in just a few minutes. Most things to do in Akureyri start within a 10-minute walk from the Akureyri cruise port.
The port is right in town. Most cruise ships dock less than 5 minutes from the pedestrian core of Akureyri. You’ll exit the secure port area through a small gate and walk straight up the Strandgata Promenade which follows the water toward the small city center. You’ll pass shops, restaurants, and cafés within 3 blocks.
Is Akureyri, Iceland Safe?
Akureyri is one of the safest ports in Iceland, and cruise passengers can explore freely without concern. Whether you’re heading out on your own or joining Akureyri shore excursions, you won’t run into safety issues here.
Yes. Akureyri is safe, even by Iceland standards. The crime rate is practically zero. Solo travelers, families, and cruise passengers don’t have anything to worry about beyond basic street smarts. Be cautious in bad weather—rain and icy sidewalks can be a hazard. That’s about it.
How To Get Around Akureyri, Iceland
Getting around Akureyri is easy on foot, but there’s also a free city bus if you're heading out a little farther. Most Akureyri Iceland attractions are close together, including the Akureyri Botanical Garden and the central church.
Downtown Akureyri is very walkable. Attractions, restaurants, and shops are close together, though a few spots (like the botanical garden or the church) are slightly uphill. If needed, the local bus system is free and simple to use. For longer trips outside town, day tours, taxis, or Akureyri rental cars are your best options.
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Things To Do in Akureyri Iceland
Top things to do in Akureyri include checking out the Akureyri botanical garden, going whale watching, or just walking the harborfront downtown. This small city is an easy place to explore on your own or on one of the many Akureyri tours offered at the port.
Akureyrarkirkja (Akureyri Church)
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
This modernist church dominates the town skyline and is impossible to miss. The staircase leading up is a bit of a climb but gives you decent views over the harbor. Inside you’ll find a large pipe organ and a ship model hanging from the ceiling, a nod to Icelandic maritime traditions. If it’s open, duck in—won’t take more than 10 minutes.
Akureyri Botanical Garden
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
This free botanical garden is way bigger than you’d expect for something this close to the Arctic Circle. The garden includes both local Icelandic species and a massive collection of international plants. It’s open year-round, though obviously greener in the summer months. Paths wind through labeled beds, and it’s a solid place to take a breather between more structured stops. There is also a central cafe that’s a great option for lunch or a caffeine fix.
Hof Cultural and Conference Center
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
This circular concrete building near the port is a cultural hub, even if you’re not attending an event. There’s usually an art exhibit or two inside, along with a tourist info desk offering free maps and advice. The bathrooms are clean and the seating is decent. Good spot to regroup or plan your next move.
Akureyri Art Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
The exhibits change often, focusing on contemporary Icelandic and Nordic art. The museum itself is inside a renovated milk factory, which still shows in the layout. Some pieces are conceptual or abstract, so it’s not for everyone, but if you’re into modern art or are looking for things to do in Akureyri in the rain it’s worth a stop. Plan on about 30 minutes.
The Christmas House (Jólahúsið)
Map: Google Maps
It’s Christmas all year inside this bright red cottage just outside of town. There are rooms packed with ornaments, Icelandic holiday legends, and a floor-to-ceiling advent calendar setup. Some of it’s quirky, some of it’s over-the-top, and all of it’s very much for people who are into the holiday.
Nonni’s House (Nonnahús)
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
This small house museum focuses on Jón Sveinsson, a local author better known as Nonni. The interior is furnished the way it might have looked when he lived there—tight hallways, wood paneling, and basic furniture. It won’t be the highlight of your trip, but it’s quick and pairs well with the larger town museum.
Akureyri Swimming Pool
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
It’s not flashy from the outside, but this is one of the best geothermal pools in the country. Multiple hot tubs, a big heated pool, steam rooms, and even waterslides if you want to act like you’re 10 again. Locals go here year-round, no matter the weather. Bring your swimsuit or rent one—just follow the shower rules.
Götubarinn
Map: Google Maps
Locals love this place, especially late at night. There’s a quirky vibe and a small stage for live music, plus occasional DJ nights. It can get packed, especially when a ship is docked. If your ship is staying late and you’re into nightlife this casual and unpretentious local spot will be much more memorable than another night at Sid Norman’s.
Akureyri Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Focuses on the history of the area with rotating exhibits on everything from daily life to local disasters. Not overly large, but better presented than many local museums. Combine it with Nonni’s House for a more complete experience. About 30 minutes is plenty unless you’re a slow reader.
Mt. Sulur Hike
Map: Alltrails
If you’re looking for a more active day in Akureyri you can hike Mt. Súlur. This challenging 7-mile loop starts at a local parking lot located outside of town and climbs to Ytri Súlur, with the option to push on to the second summit, Syðri Súlur. You’ll get sweeping views over Akureyri and Eyjafjörður—one of the longest fjords in Iceland. It’s well-marked, and way less crowded than anything in the port. Get an early start and plan for around 5 hours roundtrip, plus a taxi ride to the trailhead.
Forest Lagoon (Skogarboo)
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Tickets: GetYourGuide
Forest Lagoon (Skógarböð) is a geothermal spa located about 10 minutes from the city center by car, built into a hillside overlooking the Eyjafjörður fjord. It opened in 2022 and features two large pools, a sauna with fjord views, cold plunge, and a swim-up bar. The main pool is around 39°C (102°F), and the smaller pool is hotter, closer to 42°C (108°F). The setting is surrounded by pine forest, and while it’s more polished than a local hot spring, it’s quieter and more undiscovered than places like the Blue Lagoon. You can take a taxi from the cruise port or join a small-group excursion that includes entry. Towels and swimsuits can be rented on site, or bring your own. Advance booking is recommended.
Best Cruise Ship Excursions in Akureyri, Iceland
Some of the best Akureyri Iceland shore excursions include whale watching, waterfall tours, and trips to the Myvatn geothermal area. Cruise passengers can also book Akureyri day trips to explore the lava fields and volcanic landscapes of northern Iceland.
A small visitor shop (Google Map) is located directly outside of the secure cruise area. Around and behind this kiosk you will find local tour operators and taxi drivers offering same day tours for cruise passengers.
Godafoss Waterfall Tour
Godafoss is one of the easiest and most popular day trips from Akureyri. Godafoss is a wide, powerful waterfall that’s easy to access with paved paths on both sides. It’s not massive by Iceland standards, but the views are good and there’s usually time to walk both viewing areas. There’s a small café and bathroom nearby. Most tours allow about 30–45 minutes here.
Lake Mývatn, Geothermal Area, and Mývatn Nature Baths
This region is full of volcanic formations, bubbling mud pools, and otherworldly terrain. Stops usually include Skútustaðagígar pseudocraters, Dimmuborgir lava fields, Hverir geothermal vents, and views of Lake Mývatn. It’s one of Iceland’s most dramatic and varied landscapes, and you’ll cover a lot in one day. The roads are long and remote, but it’s worth the drive if you're okay with a full schedule.
The nature baths are often offered as an add-on to the Mývatn area tour. The pools are geothermally heated, not chlorinated, and surrounded by lava and moss fields. It’s quieter and less crowded than the Blue Lagoon but still has the spa vibe. Towels and suits can be rented. Views from the water are great if the weather holds.
Whale Watching Tour
Humpback whales are common in summer and sightings are frequent. Boats are slower but stable and knowledgeable guides know where to look. Many tours provide warm suits to help with the brisk ocean air. If you’ve already done whale watching elsewhere, this still offers some of the most consistent sightings in Iceland.
Check out our other posts about things to see and do in Iceland!
Or visit our Destinations page to be inspired.
Best Restaurants in Akureyri, Iceland
For local food, head to Akureyri Iceland restaurants like Strikið or Rub 23 for seafood with harbor views. You’ll also find cozy cafes just a short walk from the Akureyri cruise port serving lamb soup and fresh-baked pastries.
Kaffi Ilmur
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Hearty soups, pancakes, and sandwiches served in an old house that feels like you’re crashing someone’s kitchen. Portions are solid and service is quick, which is key on cruise days. Good for breakfast or lunch. Grab a seat upstairs if it's not too crowded.
Rub23
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
A seafood and sushi restaurant with a menu that changes based on what’s been caught that day. It’s one of the few places in Iceland where you might see minke whale on the menu, not sure how we fell about that. Not cheap, but a good bet if you want something a little more polished. Reservations recommended if you're trying to go during dinner hours.
Bautinn
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Large wooden building right in the center of town. The menu is all over the place—fish, lamb, pasta, and a salad bar that comes free with most meals. It’s tourist-friendly without being totally generic. Fast service and open throughout the afternoon.
Strikið
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Located on the top floor of a downtown building, this is one of the best spots for a meal with a view. The menu leans upscale—grilled fish, lamb, and cocktails. It’s casual enough for daytime dining but has table service and a slower pace. Book a window seat if you can.
Greifinn
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
This is the Icelandic version of a neighborhood family restaurant—burgers, pizza, pasta, and soda fountains. Food comes out fast, and it’s where locals go when they don’t feel like cooking. It’s a bit off the path of most cruise passengers which is either a plus or a minus depending on the goals of your day. Not a food destination, but reliable and open long hours.
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Akureyri Cruise Port Map
You won’t need much more than a basic Akureyri Iceland map to get around, since the cruise port is centrally located. Grab a free Akureyri cruise port map at the tourist desk right outside the Akureyri cruise terminal before heading into town.
Map: Google Maps
Map: Visit Akureyri
The Google Map link is where the ship parks while in Akureyri. There is also a link from the local tourist organization. This map shows the cruise terminal and walkable destinations. You can download it offline and save spots in advance.
Best Things To Do in Akureyri, Iceland
Akureyrarkirkja (Akureyri Church)
Akureyri Botanical Garden
Hof Cultural and Conference Center
Akureyri Art Museum
The Christmas House (Jólahúsið)
Nonni’s House (Nonnahús)
Akureyri Swimming Pool
Götubarinn
Akureyri Museum
Mt. Sulur Hike
Forest Lagoon (Skogarboo)
Godafoss Waterfall
Lake Mývatn
