Wildlife
Whales
Humpbacks are frequently seen here, even in winter.
Northeast Iceland
Eyjafjörður: Iceland's Longest Fjord
Known as the Island Fjord, Eyjafjordur is Iceland's longest fjord at 60km. Home to Akureyri, the Capital of the North, plus whale watching, Hrisey island, the Beer Spa, and the Arctic Coast Way along its shores.
Main City
Akureyri
A major hub with airport and full services.
Iceland's longest fjord is a grand corridor leading to the 'Capital of the North.' The drive along Eyjafjörður is lined with high peaks that hold snow late into summer, while the sheltered waters are one of the most reliable places in the world to see humpback whales surfacing near the shore.
Sources and last reviewed
Last reviewed: 2026-03-03
Eyjafjörður is well-connected, but winter snow can be heavy in Akureyri and the surrounding mountains.
Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.
Official sources to check
Island
Hrísey
Take a short ferry ride to this peaceful island nature reserve.
Access
Easy
Route 1 runs right to Akureyri; coastal roads are paved.
Experience
Beer Spa
Soak in warm beer at Bjórböðin in Árskógssandur with views over the fjord.
Culture
Akureyri
Iceland's second city has botanical gardens, museums, restaurants, and an active arts scene.
Scenic Route
Arctic Coast Way
Follow this 900km coastal route along both shores of the fjord.
What to Expect
- Humpback whale watching with year-round sightings close to shore
- Akureyri , the Capital of the North, with botanical gardens and an active cultural scene
- Hrísey island ferry ride to the peaceful Pearl of Eyjafjörður nature reserve
- Beer Spa at Bjórböðin in Árskógssandur with warm beer baths and fjord views
- Arctic Coast Way driving along both shores with snow-capped peaks reflected in calm waters
- Goðafoss waterfall only 45 minutes east on Route 1
How to Get to Eyjafjörður
Driving from Reykjavik
Akureyri is 390km (4.5-5 hours) from Reykjavik via Route 1 (Ring Road). The drive is entirely paved and passes through Öxnadalur valley. Alternatively, fly from Reykjavik to Akureyri airport (45 minutes).
Road Conditions
All main roads around Eyjafjörður are paved and well-maintained. The Ring Road to Akureyri is excellent year-round, though winter snow can be heavy. Coastal roads to Dalvík and Ólafsfjörður are part of the Arctic Coast Way. Check road.is for winter conditions.
Best Time to Visit Eyjafjörður
Summer (June-August)
Peak season for whale watching, Hrísey island visits, and Beer Spa. Midnight sun provides 24-hour daylight. All services fully operational. Weather is mildest (10-18°C in Akureyri, one of Iceland's warmest towns).
Shoulder Season (May, Sept)
Good whale watching continues. Fewer tourists. Northern lights visible in September. All major attractions open. Expect 5-12°C temperatures with occasional rain.
Winter (Oct-April)
Whale watching operates year-round. Excellent northern lights. Akureyri has skiing and Christmas festivities. Heavy snow possible but roads maintained. Only 4-5 hours daylight in December.
Nearby Attractions
Akureyri Botanical Garden
The world's northernmost botanical garden, free to enter, with over 7,000 plant species growing near the Arctic Circle.
Hrísey Island
The 'Pearl of Eyjafjörður': a peaceful island reached by a 15-minute ferry, good for birdwatching and quiet walks.
Beer Spa (Bjórböðin)
Bathe in warm beer at Árskógssandur, with fjord views from hot tubs on the hillside.
Dalvík & Whale Watching
Fishing village on the western shore with whale watching tours that report high sighting rates.
Goðafoss Waterfall
The 'Waterfall of the Gods' is just 45 minutes east on Route 1, one of Iceland's best-known waterfalls.
Christmas House (Jólahúsið)
Year-round Christmas shop and garden in Akureyri devoted to Icelandic Yule traditions.
Planning help
Eyjafjörður FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.