North Iceland has dramatic landscapes—powerful waterfalls, steaming geothermal areas, ancient lava fields, and deep fjords. History and folklore are part of everyday life, Viking settlers once lived there, and people still tell stories of hidden creatures in the mountains and valleys.
North Iceland is known for its open spaces, small but welcoming towns, and a strong connection to the land. It’s home to Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest town, with a lively mix of culture, food, and modern Icelandic life. The region also has deep historical roots, from early Norse settlements to events that shaped the country’s identity.
But it’s not all about history—North Iceland is also packed with adventure. It has some of Europe’s best whale watching, stunning hiking trails, and natural hot springs. The Mývatn area, with its bubbling mud pools and lava formations, feels almost otherworldly, while Ásbyrgi Canyon, said to be formed by the hoofprint of Odin’s horse, is full of legends.
Whether you’re into history, nature, or adventure, North Iceland has something to offer. This guide will help you make the most of your trip by recommending the best places to visit, lesser-known spots, historical sites, and cultural highlights.
History of North Iceland
Viking Settlement & Goðafoss (9th–11th Century)
The Vikings arrived in North Iceland in the late 9th century, establishing farms, trading posts, and fishing villages along the coast and in fertile valleys. These early settlers adapted to the harsh conditions, relying on farming, fishing, and trade to survive. One of the most significant moments in Iceland’s history occurred in 1000 AD when the country officially converted to Christianity.
The decision was made at Þingvellir by the lawspeaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði, who, after a day of contemplation, ruled that Icelanders should adopt Christianity while still allowing private worship of the old Norse gods. To mark this transition, he is said to have thrown his pagan idols into Goðafoss (“Waterfall of the Gods”), a symbolic gesture of the country’s shift from paganism to Christianity. This moment was a turning point, as it helped maintain unity in Iceland during a time when religious conflicts could have led to civil unrest.
Medieval Feuds & the Sturlunga Age (12th–13th Century)
The 12th and 13th centuries were marked by violent power struggles between Iceland’s most influential families. This period, known as the Sturlunga Age, saw fierce battles as rival chieftains fought for land and resources. North Iceland was a key battleground, with several bloody confrontations shaping its history.
One of the most infamous conflicts was between the powerful Sturlungar and Ásbirningar clans. Their brutal feuds destabilised the country, weakening society and making it easier for Norway to take control. In 1262, after years of conflict, Iceland formally submitted to Norwegian rule under the Old Covenant (Gamli sáttmáli), losing its independence for centuries.
Today, Sauðárkrókur visitors can enter this turbulent era through the Battle of 1238 – VR Experience. This immersive exhibition recreates one of the bloodiest battles of the Sturlunga Age. Using cutting-edge virtual reality, it brings the medieval battlefield to life, letting guests witness the chaos of Iceland’s civil war firsthand.
Grettir the Strong & Saga Legends
North Iceland is rich in saga history, and one of its most legendary figures is Grettir Ásmundarson, known as Grettir the Strong. A notorious 11th-century outlaw, he was famous for his immense strength, rebellious nature, and survival against impossible odds. He spent much of his life on the run, battling both men and supernatural beings, as told in The Saga of Grettir the Strong.
After being declared an outlaw, Grettir sought refuge in North Iceland, moving between remote farms and wilderness hideouts. His most famous exile was on Drangey Island in Skagafjörður, where he lived for years despite repeated attempts to capture or kill him. Eventually, his enemies ambushed and murdered him, but his legend endured in Icelandic folklore.
Today, visitors to North Iceland can explore landscapes tied to his story. From Goðafoss to the dramatic cliffs of Drangey Island, where Grettir made his final stand, his legacy lives on.
Museums to Visit
Húsavík Whale Museum
Founded in 1997, the Húsavík Whale Museum began as a small exhibition and quickly became one of North Iceland’s top attractions. Within three years, its popularity led to a move into the old slaughterhouse of Kaupfélag Þingeyinga, where it continues to educate visitors on whales and marine conservation.
The museum has expanded its exhibits and research collaborations through the years, playing a key role in whale preservation efforts. Today, in its 1,400 m² space, visitors can explore whale skeletons and interactive displays, gaining insight into the world of these remarkable marine mammals.
Akureyri Museum
The Akureyri Museum is more than just exhibitions—it is dedicated to preserving, researching, and sharing the region’s history. Housed in Kirkjuhvoll, a stately 1934 residence, the museum expanded in 1978 with additional exhibition halls. One of its most striking artefacts is a black-tarred wooden church, initially built in 1846 in Svalbarð by master craftsman Þorsteinn Daníelsson, showcasing 19th-century rural Icelandic architecture. The museum garden, a rare ornamental garden from around 1900, is a historical attraction. These elements make the Akureyri Museum a unique window into Iceland’s past.
The Icelandic Aviation Museum
The Icelandic Aviation Museum showcases the evolution of flight in Iceland, from the first attempts at commercial aviation in 1919 to modern-day air travel, emergency medical flights, and the role of the Icelandic Coast Guard. The museum brings this history to life through photographs, artefacts, models, and a collection of historic aircraft, including planes and helicopters—some still in flying condition. These aircraft take to the skies each June for the museum’s annual air show. Visitors can also step inside select aircraft for a closer look.
Glaumbær Turf House
Standing since the Settlement Age (c. 900 AD), Glaumbær turf house features buildings from different periods. The oldest sections date to the mid-18th century, and the newest from 1876–79. It remained unchanged until 1939 and was preserved in 1947 with funding from Sir Mark Watson.
Built primarily from turf, stone, and timber, its herringbone-patterned turf walls rest on stone foundations to prevent dampness. The 13 interconnected buildings served various functions, with the baðstofa as the main living space, alongside kitchens, storerooms, and a smithy.
Nearby, Áshús and Gilsstofa represent early 19th-century timber houses, and Glaumbær Church (1926) adds to the site’s historical significance.
Herring Era Museum in Siglufjörður
Founded in 1989, the Herring Era Museum in Siglufjörður preserves Iceland’s herring industry legacy. Efforts to establish it began in 1957, but real progress started in the 1970s with the restoration of key buildings. These include Róaldsbrakki (1907), the Norwegian Sailors’ Home (1915), and Sæbyshús (1886).
The museum expanded over the years with additions like Grána (1999), the Boathouse (2004), and the Old Slipway (2012). By 2015, it became Iceland’s third-largest museum, drawing over 22,000 visitors annually. Despite setbacks like COVID-19, visitor numbers soared to 30,000 in 2022, gaining international recognition.
Today, the museum continues to grow with new projects like the Salthouse and expanded educational programs. These efforts ensure the history of Iceland’s herring era lives on for future generations.
Must-Visit Natural Wonders
Goðafoss Waterfall
Goðafoss is one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, located in North Iceland along the Skjálfandafljót River. Standing 12 metres high and 30 metres wide, its curved cascade makes it a breathtaking sight. The waterfall is steeped in history, linked to Iceland’s conversion to Christianity in 1000 AD. According to legend, Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði, the lawspeaker at the time, threw his Norse pagan idols into the falls after declaring Christianity the official religion, giving Goðafoss its name. Easily accessible from Route 1, it lies between Akureyri and Lake Mývatn, with walking paths offering spectacular views.
Dettifoss Waterfall
Dettifoss is in North Iceland along the Jökulsá á Fjöllum River in Vatnajökull National Park. It plunges 44 metres (144 feet) down a rugged canyon and spans 100 metres (328 feet) wide. Its immense water flow makes it one of the most forceful waterfalls in Europe. The sheer power of Dettifoss is breathtaking, sending mist high into the air and creating a thunderous roar. Easily accessible via Route 864 and Route 862, the waterfall is part of the Diamond Circle, a popular sightseeing route. Featured in films like Prometheus (2012), Dettifoss is a must-see for those exploring Iceland’s raw and untamed landscapes.
Mývatn Geothermal Area
The Mývatn Geothermal Area in North Iceland is a hotspot of volcanic activity, featuring bubbling mud pools, steaming fumaroles, and lava fields. At Hverarönd, near Námafjall Mountain, sulfur vents and boiling mud pots create a striking, otherworldly landscape. Nearby, the Mývatn Nature Baths offer milky-blue geothermal pools, often called the “Blue Lagoon of the North.”
The region is shaped by the Krafla volcano, whose eruptions, including the Krafla Fires (1975–1984), formed vast lava fields. Other highlights include Dimmuborgir, which some say is the home of the 13 Yule Lads and their family. Easily accessible from Route 1, Mývatn’s geothermal wonders make it a must-visit destination.
Ásbyrgi Canyon
Ásbyrgi, a striking horseshoe-shaped canyon in North Iceland, is one of the country’s most unique natural wonders. Part of Vatnajökull National Park, the canyon is 3.5 km long and 1 km wide, with towering 100-metre-high cliffs surrounding a lush valley.
According to legend, Ásbyrgi was formed by the hoofprint of Sleipnir, Odin’s eight-legged horse. Geologists, however, believe catastrophic glacial floods carved it from the Jökulsá á Fjöllum River, likely thousands of years ago.
The canyon is home to Birki Forest, a rare Icelandic woodland filled with birch, willow, and rowan trees. This woodland creates a peaceful contrast to Iceland’s rugged landscapes. A small pond, Botnstjörn, sits at the canyon’s base, attracting birdlife.
Ásbyrgi is easily accessible via Route 85. It is part of the Diamond Circle and offers excellent hiking trails. Enjoy breathtaking views and a serene escape into nature.
Tours and Activities
Whale Watching in Húsavík
The Húsavík Original Whale Watching Tour is a three-hour adventure you won’t want to miss when exploring North Iceland. Sailing through the breathtaking Skjálfandi Bay, you’ll have the chance to see whales, dolphins, and seabirds in their natural habitat. The journey takes place on a traditional Icelandic oak boat, ensuring a smooth and safe experience on the water.
North Sailing, the pioneers of whale watching in Iceland, operate this tour. It is one of the most authentic wildlife experiences in the country. To top it off, you’ll enjoy hot cocoa and cinnamon buns on the way back to Húsavík. Be sure to arrive at the ticket office at least 30 minutes before departure. Get ready for an unforgettable encounter with Iceland’s marine life.
Northern Lights Tours
For a chance to witness the Northern Lights, head outside Akureyri and escape the city lights for a breathtaking experience. With optimal conditions during the winter months, North Iceland is one of the best places to see the Aurora Borealis.
Expert guides seek out the clearest skies each night for the best viewing opportunities. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, many tours offer a second chance if the lights don’t appear.
Forest Lagoon
Nestled in Vaðlaskógur forest, just minutes from Akureyri, Forest Lagoon offers a unique geothermal spa experience with stunning views over Eyjafjörður, one of Iceland’s longest fjords. Surrounded by birch and pine trees, the spa provides a peaceful escape where guests can relax and soak in the natural beauty of North Iceland.
The lagoon features two geothermal pools. The main pool (530m²) is 37°C (98.6°F) and offers swim-up bars and an indoor entry, while the smaller pool (53m²) is heated to 40°C (104°F). A dry sauna with panoramic fjord views reaches 80°C (176°F), and a nearby cold pool (11°C / 51.8°F) allows for refreshing contrast therapy.
The Forest Bistro complements the experience, serving high-quality food in a warm, wood-clad setting with fjord views and an indoor fireplace. Easily accessible by car or plane, Forest Lagoon is a must-visit for those looking to unwind in North Iceland’s scenic surroundings.
Best Places to Eat and Drink
Strikið Restaurant in Akureyri
Since 2005, Strikið has been one of Akureyri’s most popular restaurants. Strikið is located on the fifth floor at Skipagata 14 and offers stunning panoramic views over the fjord and surrounding mountains.
The restaurant features two dining areas, both with breathtaking views, making the experience as memorable as the food. In the summer, the outdoor terrace adds to the charm, providing an unbeatable setting for enjoying a meal or drink under the open sky with views in every direction.
Strikið’s atmosphere is both sophisticated and relaxed. The restaurant prides itself on high-quality cuisine and professional service.
Gísli, Eiríkur og Helgi Café in Dalvík
In Dalvík, you’ll find Gísli, Eiríkur, Helgi, a cozy café located at Grundargata 1, dedicated to the legendary Bakkabræður brothers from Bakki in Svarfaðardalur. The café is designed and decorated with their stories and spirit in mind, offering a unique and charming atmosphere.
A popular stop for skiers, especially backcountry skiers, from March to May, the café is well known for its homemade fish soup, served with beer bread made from Kaldi beer, fresh salad, and a choice of brewed coffee or tea. Visitors can also enjoy homemade cakes and Kaldi beer, a local favourite.
The café also operates Ungó, a theatre and event space attached to the café, with a stage and seating for up to 95 people. It hosts concerts, performances, and various events, adding to the cultural life of Dalvík.
Fosshótel Húsavík Restaurant
The Fosshótel Húsavík Restaurant offers a dining experience inspired by the town’s rich maritime heritage. With its whale-themed décor and focus on local ingredients, the restaurant serves Icelandic specialities, including the renowned reindeer burger and fresh seafood dishes.
Guests can enjoy happy hour from 4 PM to 6 PM, followed by dinner in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether stopping by after a whale-watching tour or exploring North Iceland, the restaurant is a great spot to savour authentic Icelandic flavours.
Baccalá Bar in Hauganes
Baccalá Bar is a charming restaurant located in Hauganes, a quaint village on the west bank of Eyjafjörður Bay in North Iceland, approximately 25 km from Akureyri and 12 km from Dalvík. Operated by Ektafiskur, a renowned bacalao producer since 1940, the restaurant offers a delightful selection of Icelandic dishes suitable for the whole family.
Guests can savour fresh fish from the bay, including the famous Ektafiskur bacalao (salted codfish), burgers, pizzas, and various cocktails. The beautifully decorated interior and a porch designed like a Viking ship provide magnificent views of Eyjafjörður Bay, enhancing the dining experience. Baccalá Bar has become a popular destination among locals and travellers, offering a unique culinary experience in a picturesque setting.
Folktales and Legends of North Iceland
Deacon of Myrká
This is one of Iceland’s most famous ghost stories, and one nearly all Icelanders know. It tells the tragic tale of a deacon who dies unexpectedly but returns from the grave to claim his beloved.
The Deacon of Myrká
Long ago, a deacon lived at Myrká in Eyjafjörður. He was courting a young woman named Guðrún, who lived across the river at Bægisá. One day, just before Christmas, he rode his gray horse, Faxi, to invite Guðrún to the Christmas Eve celebrations at Myrká. He promised to return and escort her to the gathering.
On the day of his visit, heavy snow had fallen, but later, a sudden thaw caused the rivers to swell. While returning home, the deacon, unaware of the rising waters, attempted to cross Hörgá River, but the bridge collapsed beneath him. He was swept away and drowned, his body not discovered until days later, with a fatal wound on the back of his head from the ice. He was buried just before Christmas.
Unaware of his fate, Guðrún prepared for the celebration, expecting him to arrive as promised. On Christmas Eve, as night fell, there was a knock at the door. Another woman in the house answered but saw no one outside. The moonlight flickered between clouds, creating an eerie glow. Guðrún sensed it was for her, so she stepped outside, only half-dressed, with one arm in her cloak and the other sleeve thrown over her shoulder.
Outside, Faxi stood waiting, and beside him, a shadowy figure whom she assumed was the deacon. He lifted her onto the horse without speaking and mounted in front of her. They rode in silence through the dark, wintry landscape.
As they reached the Hörgá River, the horse stumbled on an icy ledge, causing the deacon’s hat to shift, revealing a rotting skull beneath. In a hollow, unnatural voice, he whispered:
“The moon fades, death rides,
Do you not see the white spot on my head,
Garún, Garún?”
At that moment, Guðrún realized the truth—the deacon was dead, and he had mistakenly called her Garún, as ghosts struggle to say the names of the living correctly. She remained silent, too terrified to respond.
When they arrived at Myrká, he stopped in front of the churchyard gate and told her:
“Wait here, Garún, Garún,
While I take Faxi, Faxi,
Beyond the walls, the walls.”
As he led the horse away, Guðrún glanced toward the graveyard and saw an open grave, realizing he intended to pull her down into it. Terrified, she grabbed the church bell rope just as she felt his cold hands seize her from behind. Because she had not fully put on her cloak, he only managed to tear off the loose sleeve, tumbling backward into the open grave, where the earth collapsed over him.
Guðrún rang the bells frantically until the household came to rescue her. That night, the deacon’s ghost returned, tormenting her so intensely that she could not sleep. For two weeks, she was never left alone, and some say the priest had to sit by her bedside, reading from the Psalter to keep the ghost away.
Finally, a sorcerer from Skagafjörður was summoned. He trapped the deacon’s spirit by rolling a large stone to the house’s edge and binding him underneath it with powerful spells. The hauntings ceased, but Guðrún was never the same again.
The stone is said to remain at Myrká to this day, still holding the deacon’s restless spirit. The tale of Djákninn á Myrká remains one of Iceland’s most famous ghost stories, told for generations as a warning about the dangers of the supernatural and the thin boundary between the living and the dead.
Guðmundur at Keldur and his elf wife
Icelandic folklore is filled with tales of elves and hidden people (huldufólk), supernatural beings believed to inhabit rocks, hills, and remote landscapes. These stories, passed down through generations, blend pagan traditions, Norse mythology, and Christian influences, portraying a world where the unseen exists alongside humans.
Elves and hidden people are often said to live inside specific rock formations, and disturbing their dwellings is thought to bring misfortune. Even in modern times, roads and construction projects have been rerouted to avoid damaging supposed elf homes. These beings are usually invisible but can choose to reveal themselves, sometimes interacting with humans in mysterious ways.
Encounters with elves range from friendly to dangerous. In some stories, they borrow tools or food, returning them in pristine condition as a sign of good luck. Others describe hidden women seeking human midwives for childbirth, rewarding those who help with prosperity. However, angering the huldufólk—by stealing from them or disrespecting their land—can lead to curses or misfortune.
Christmas is considered a time of increased elf activity, with stories of invisible processions and eerie happenings on Christmas Eve. Some tales warn that people who disappear without explanation may have been taken by the elves, only to return years later, forever changed. The hidden people’s world is intertwined with nature, reinforcing Iceland’s deep connection to its rugged landscapes, where the unseen is never far away.
Guðmundur at Keldur
At Keldur in Sléttuhlíð, a farmer named Guðmundur lived with his wife and son, Jón. When Jón was still young, his mother passed away, and Guðmundur remained unmarried. However, he would disappear every Christmas Eve and not return until Christmas Day. He never told anyone where he went, and this continued every year until Jón turned eighteen.
That Christmas Eve, Jón asked to join his father, and Guðmundur agreed—on the condition that Jón follow his instructions strictly.
That night, they walked west past a rocky hillside and knocked on a rock face. Suddenly, two women appeared—one older, the other young—and welcomed them inside. They served food and drink, and after some time, Guðmundur revealed that the older woman was his wife and that he planned to move in with her permanently in the spring. He then told Jón that the younger woman was meant for him.
Jón refused outright, but his father and the women pressed him to accept. When he noticed their growing displeasure, he panicked and ran, not stopping until he reached Keldur, where he told his foster mother everything.
“This is bad,” she said. “Go immediately to Fell and speak to Pastor Þorvarður.”
Jón left for Fell and arrived early on Christmas morning. The priest listened to his story and grew deeply concerned.
“This is beyond my power,” said Þorvarður. “But I have a friend, Sigurður at Leifshús on Svalbarðsströnd, who may be able to help. You must leave immediately.”
He gave Jón a pair of shoes and warned, “Do not remove these, no matter how tight they feel.”
Jón set off for Leifshús. As he travelled, the shoes tightened painfully, almost unbearable when he reached Stærri-Árskóg. But once he passed Hillurnar, they loosened again, and he continued to Leifshús, where he found Sigurður and delivered the priest’s message.
“Ah,” said Sigurður, “so Vaðlaheiði is at work. You will stay here tonight.”
The following day, Sigurður instructed him: “You must keep travelling east to Múlasýsla and never return. Give me the shoes from Fell, and take these instead. Today, you will cross Vaðlaheiði and stay the night at Fjósatunga. But listen carefully—no matter what happens, stay on the path. Do not stray, even if you feel an overwhelming urge.”
Jón followed the main road across Vaðlaheiði. He felt an intense desire to leave the path or even turn back as he reached the middle of the heath. The temptation was overpowering, but just then, a strange man appeared, offering to accompany him.
Jón hesitated, fearing a trick, but accepted the offer. The man walked beside him to Fjósatunga, then vanished.
That night, as Jón lay in bed, the women from the rock appeared, trying to drag him out of bed. But at that moment, an elderly woman, the foster mother of the farmer, came in and sat beside him all night, keeping the spirits at bay.
The following day, she escorted him to the next village, ensuring his safety. Jón reached Múlasýsla, where he settled, married, and lived a long and prosperous life.
As for Guðmundur, he vanished the following spring, leaving his farm behind and moving permanently into the rock, never to be seen again.
Read more Icelandic folktales here.
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