Akureyri, Iceland Cruise Port Guide
Nestled at the base of Eyjafjörður, Iceland's longest fjord, Akureyri serves as the vibrant capital of North Iceland and a gateway to extraordinary geothermal wonderlands.
Major cruise lines including Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, and Princess Cruises frequently visit this charming, colorful city.
Passengers are drawn to its dramatic Arctic landscapes, cascading waterfalls, relaxing thermal baths, and rich cultural heritage set against snow-capped mountain peaks.
In This Guide
- Key Akureyri Port Information
- • Top Attractions & Excursions
- • Nearby Cities & Attractions
- • Port Location
- • Local Currency
- • Safety Considerations
- • Weather & Climate
- • Getting Around
- • Shopping
- Shore Excursions & Tours
- Local SIM Card
- Visiting Akureyri Cruise Deals
- Upcoming Cruises to Akureyri Cruise Deals
- Ships in Port Schedule
- Other Cruise Ports in Iceland
- Monthly Pricing
Key Akureyri Port Information
Top Attractions & Excursions
A visit to the spectacular Godafoss, known as the 'Waterfall of the Gods,' is a quintessential excursion located just a 35-minute drive from the port.
Within the town, visitors can admire the iconic hilltop architecture of Akureyri Church (Akureyrarkirkja) or wander through the lush, surprisingly vibrant Akureyri Botanical Garden (Lystigardur Akureyrar).
For ultimate relaxation, the modern Forest Lagoon geothermal spa offers serene soaking pools set in a birch forest, located only a 10-minute drive across the fjord.
Last updated on October 27, 2026
Nearby Cities & Attractions
The charming coastal town of Húsavík, world-famous as a prime whale watching spot, is located about 75 kilometers east of port and takes roughly an hour by car.
To the north lies Dalvik, reachable in 35 minutes, offering excellent opportunities for boat tours and local sea angling.
Geothermal enthusiasts often travel 1.5 hours southeast to Lake Mývatn, a stunning region filled with volcanic craters, bubbling mud pots, and unique rock formations.
Last updated on October 27, 2026
Port Location
Cruise ships dock primarily at Oddeyrarbryggja pier or Tangabbryggja, both situated about 1 to 1.5 kilometers from the town center.
Passengers can easily enjoy a flat 15-to-20-minute walk into town along paved pedestrian paths, though shuttle buses or taxis are often available at the pier.
The nearby Hof Cultural and Conference Center acts as a primary visitor point, offering tourist information, free WiFi, and convenient facilities.
Last updated on October 27, 2026
Local Currency
The official currency is the Icelandic Króna (ISK).
While US Dollars and Euros are occasionally accepted in tourist-heavy spots, credit and debit cards are universally accepted everywhere, even for tiny transactions like coffee or public restrooms.
ATMs are readily accessible in town center banks if cash is desired, but carrying physical currency is virtually unnecessary for visitors.
Last updated on October 27, 2026
Safety Considerations
Iceland is consistently rated as one of the safest countries in the world, and Akureyri maintains an exceptionally low crime rate with no specific areas to avoid.
The primary safety hazards involve rapidly changing Arctic weather conditions and slippery terrain around natural sites and waterfalls.
Exploring town independently on foot is completely safe, though sturdy footwear is recommended when heading into rural geothermal areas.
Last updated on October 27, 2026
Weather & Climate
During the summer cruise season from May to September, daytime temperatures typically range from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F), though sunny days can feel warmer.
Weather conditions in Northern Iceland change rapidly, bringing sudden wind, overcast skies, or light rainfall throughout the day.
Passengers should dress in versatile layers, bringing waterproof jackets, sturdy walking shoes, warm hats, gloves, and swimwear for the geothermal pools.
Last updated on October 27, 2026
Getting Around
The town center is highly compact and walkable, making public transit unnecessary for exploring local sights.
Local bus service is operated by SVA City Bus, which uniquely offers free rides on all routes within town boundaries, though schedules are limited on weekends.
Taxis are available at the pier but are relatively expensive and limited in number, so booking a guided shore excursion or renting a vehicle in advance is recommended for countryside travel.
Last updated on October 27, 2026
Shopping
The main pedestrian street, Hafnarstræti, is lined with cozy boutiques, art galleries, and craft shops selling local souvenirs.
Popular items include traditional hand-knitted Icelandic wool sweaters (lopapeysa), lava stone jewelry, local craft spirits, and gourmet sea salts.
Prices are fixed and non-negotiable across Iceland, but visitors can request Tax-Free refund receipts at participating stores for purchases over a minimum threshold.
Last updated on October 27, 2026
Shore Excursions & Tours
Iceland's #1 Grade 4 Rafting – Glacial Canyon & Drysuits
Iceland's signature Grade 4+ rafting on the East Glacial River (Austari Jökulsá) features 18 km of big, powerful rapids born under Hofsjökull glacier in a roadless, phoneless basalt canyon. No prior experience is required, just decent fitness and the will to paddle hard with your crew in North Iceland's highlands.
Top-Rated Family Rafting – Drysuits & Geothermal Hot Cocoa
On the West Glacial River, guests enjoy Grade 2-2+ rapids through one of Iceland's most beautiful volcanic canyons featuring basalt walls, a cliff jump, and hot cocoa from a geothermal spring. This surprising moment in a glacial canyon occurs early in the journey and surprises every guest.
West Glacial River Rafting Tour near Akureyri
Classed 2-3, the West Glacial River is ideal for families and those seeking a relaxing trip through a magnificent canyon with breathtaking scenery.
East Glacial River Rafting Tour near Akureyri
The Class 4+ East Glacial River is one of Europe's most exciting rivers, offering a guaranteed great adventure where you must hook in and hold on.
Cruise Tour Godafoss and Myvatn Lake and Dettifoss Small Group
Traveling along Eyjafjörður, one of Iceland's longest fjords, this journey visits the historically significant Goðafoss waterfall and Lake Mývatn’s unique Skútustaðagígar pseudo craters. This phenomenon is found in only a few places worldwide.
Forest Lagoon Ebike Tour Akureyri
This guided Original North e-bike tour starts at the Forest Lagoon, offering access there before heading into Eyjafjordur and through Kjarnaskógur forest's adventurous tracks to historic Akureyri.
Akureyri Lake Myvatn Godafoss and Lava Fields Tour
This comfortable 6-hour shore excursion from Akureyri for cruise passengers visits Goðafoss, known as the Waterfall of the Gods, Mývatn's unique craters, and Dimmuborgir's mysterious lava formations. The tour includes a scenic drive and a guaranteed experience.
Goðafoss Waterfall and Turf House Tour from Akureyri Port
This introductory tour from Akureyri drives the coastline to Grenjaðarstaður Turf Houses and Museum to experience local heritage and history before visiting Goðafoss and the powerful Skjálfandafljót glacier river.
Big Whales & Puffins RIB boat tour from Húsavík
This 2-hour small group tour from Húsavík uses speedy RIB boats for 12 passengers with an expert guide and captain to provide whale watching without competition for views. Overalls, life jackets, and raincoats are provided for every passenger.
Goðafoss Waterfall & Forest Lagoon from Akureyri Port
This perfect introductory Goðafoss Waterfall & Geothermal Baths tour starts in Akureyri and visits the Grenjaðarstaður Turfhouse Heritage Museum for historical insight before visiting the powerful Skjálfandafljót and Goðafoss.
Zipline Adventure Through Glerárgil River Canyon in Akureyri Town
Experience the thrill of sustainable, environmentally friendly ziplining on five lines and a thoughtful trail through Glerárgil, a hidden river canyon splitting Akureyri with scenery few locals have seen.
Lake Mývatn & Godafoss Small Group Tour from Akureyri Port
This small group shore excursion for cruise passengers visits Goðafoss and Lake Mývatn, featuring an exclusive Bird Museum visit away from crowds with admission and a light lunch included.
Cruise Tour Godafoss and Myvatn Lake and Baths Small Group
Designed for cruise passengers, this Lake Mývatn tour departs from and returns to the port and features friendly guides who are skilled drivers, timekeepers, and eager to show you more. This memorable experience offers plenty of opportunities to take photos and capture your best moments.
Akureyri Food Walk With 4-5 Tastings and a Local Guide
This non-touristy food walk avoids buses and typical highlights to show guests Akureyri’s hidden gems, focusing on local food, people, history, and tradition like a local.
Day Trip to Lake Mývatn And The Nature Baths from Akureyri
This small group tour with personal service visits Goðafoss, pseudo craters, Dimmuborgir, Hverir boiling mud pots, and the Mývatn Nature baths, known as the Blue Lagoon of the North. Entry fees, bathing suits, and towels are not included.
Deacon Horse Riding Tour
This 1.5-hour mountain horseback adventure includes an introduction to riding, the opportunity to tölt on Icelandic horses, and coffee with light refreshments at the end.
Dettifoss and Goðafoss Waterfall Small Group from Akureyri Port
This 7-hour adventure for nature lovers and adventure seekers visits Goðafoss, Hverfjall Crater, and Dettifoss Waterfall for scenic hikes and awe-inspiring views.
Private Tour in Northern Iceland from Akureyri
This customizable 7-8 hour private tour for 1-7 people from Akureyri visits Lake Mývatn and surrounding areas with nature that attracts people of all ages.
City Walk and Local Cuisine From Akureyri
This captivating 3-hour guided city tour from the Hof Cultural Center or cruise port explores the stories of charming Akureyri and includes a local food tasting.
Goðafoss Waterfall from Akureyri Port
This safe and easy Goðafoss Waterfall tour for cruise passengers includes a return to ship guarantee and a stop of one hour or more to experience nature at its peak. Vehicles are equipped with Wifi, multilingual reading material, and audio.
Local SIM Card
GigSky eSIMs let you get data both on the ship and while in port. Their Cruise + Europe plan and Cruise + World plan both cover Akureyri as well as supported cruise ships. Choose the data allowance and duration that suit your trip, with a 7-day Cruise + Europe plan starting at only $19.99 USD for 1 GB.
Visiting Akureyri Cruise Deals
Upcoming Cruises to Akureyri Cruise Deals
Ships in Port Schedule
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Other Cruise Ports in Iceland
Monthly Pricing - Cruises visiting Akureyri
On average Akureyri is moderately expensive as a port of call. The illustration below shows the monthly average cost per day for cruises visiting Akureyri. Sailings visiting Akureyri during the the peak season of fall are much more expensive than the the low season of spring.