Akureyri - the capital of the north
Akureyri, often called the capital of the north, is located on the north coast of Iceland. Akureyri is a charming city that welcomes you as soon as you arrive. The mountains that surround the city give a breathtaking view wherever you are and you find many lovely iconic sites such as the harbor and the church. If you want a challenge you can try to run up the church steps (around 110 steps!).
Second largest city in Iceland
What to do?
There are many fun things to do in Akureyri with kids. The swimming pool is first on our list with brand new water slides and great facilities for kids of all ages. The Akureyri botanical garden is a lovely site to visit, especially in summer when everything is in bloom and don´t forget to bring your pick-nick basket on a nice summer day! A family race up the church steps will get the heart pumping as will walks up the steep streets around the church.
In Akureyri you will find many nice and family friendly restaurants and cafés. Some restaurants like Strikið offer kids a free coloring and puzzle book so they won´t get too bored while waiting for the food.
The swimming pool in Akureyri has one of the best water slides in Iceland
Winter or summer?
It doesn´t matter whether you visit Akureyri during summer or winter, you will always find it as charming.
In winter you can for instance hunt for the northern lights, go skiing in Hlíðarfjall mountain and go swimming as all pools in Iceland are heated and have various types of hot tubs.
Whale watching is something you can enjoy all year round and departures are from Akureyri harbor (in the city center).
In summer the botanical garden is an ideal place to visit, the swimming pool of course and take a stroll in the city center.
The Botanical garden is beautiful
What else
The possibilities are endless on the northern coast. Akureyri is located near many lovely sites such as Dalvík, Hrísey island and Grímsey island.
You can do a day tour to Grímsey, a gem on the Arctic Circle or to Hrísey, a lovely island on Eyjarfjörður bay. Mývatn lake is only a few hours drive away where you can enjoy the nature baths and stunning views. Dalvík and Ólafsfjörður have great pools with slides if you want more fun in the water and want to try other pools besides the one in Akureyri.
