Eyrarbakki: Historic Trading Village

A historic trading port and fishing village, home to Iceland's oldest wooden house and centuries of maritime history.

Last reviewed March 3, 2026By the Iceland.org travel deskEditorial policy
Population
~550
South Iceland • Historic village
Eyrarbakki was once South Iceland's most important settlement, a trading port where Danish merchants did business for centuries. Today this quiet village keeps its maritime history in the Husid museum, and old painted houses line streets that once carried the region's busiest commerce.
Sources and last reviewed
Last reviewed: 2026-03-03

Eyrarbakki and nearby Stokkseyri combine well as a day trip from Selfoss or Reykjavik.

Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.

Region
South Iceland

55 km from Reykjavik

Population
~550

Historic fishing village

Known for
Husid museum

Iceland's oldest wooden house

Top Attractions in Eyrarbakki

Husid Museum

Iceland's oldest wooden house (1765)

Maritime Heritage

Historic trading port artifacts

Black Sand Beach

Long coastline walks

Floi Nature Reserve

Birdwatching wetlands nearby

Historic Village Center

Old painted timber houses

Rauða Húsið Restaurant

Well-regarded seafood restaurant

How to Get to Eyrarbakki

From Reykjavik: 45 minutes via Route 1 to Selfoss, then Route 34 to the coast.

From Selfoss: Just 15 minutes south on Route 34. Combine with a visit to neighboring Stokkseyri.

Coastal route: The road between Eyrarbakki and Stokkseyri runs close to the shore, with open ocean views.

Best Time to Visit Eyrarbakki

Summer: Best weather for coastal walks and outdoor exploration. Husid museum has extended hours.

Spring/Autumn: Birdwatching season at Floi Nature Reserve, with fewer tourists in the village.

Planning help

Eyrarbakki FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

Want to experience this in person?

Iceland.org is a tour agency as well as a guide — compare day tours, or tell us your dates and a travel agent will build the trip around them.