Iceland is a land of unparalleled natural beauty, but many tourists stick to the well-trodden paths and miss out on some of the country’s most scenic cities and towns. From the artistic charm of Seyðisfjörður to the tranquil fjords of Ísafjörður, these hidden places offer a more intimate and authentic Icelandic experience. Outdoor adventures, rich cultural history, or simply a peaceful retreat, these lesser-known cities provide an opportunity to explore Iceland beyond the crowds.
1. Ísafjörður: Jewel of the Westfjords
Nestled in the Westfjords, Ísafjörður is a charming city surrounded by towering mountains and dramatic fjords. It is often overlooked due to its remote location, but those who venture here are rewarded with stunning natural beauty, rich cultural history, and a tranquil atmosphere.
Why Visit Ísafjörður?
- Unspoiled Nature: Westfjords are among the least visited areas of Iceland, meaning that Ísafjörður offers a quieter, more authentic Icelandic experience. City is surrounded by majestic mountains, making it perfect for hiking, bird-watching, and nature photography.
- Unique Culture: Ísafjörður is home to one of Iceland’s oldest music festivals, Aldrei fór ég suður, and boasts a thriving arts scene. Town also has a rich fishing history, and you can explore this at the Westfjords Heritage Museum.
- Outdoor Adventures: Interested in skiing at Tungudalur Ski Resort or kayaking in the fjords, Ísafjörður offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Must-See Attractions
- Hornstrandir Nature Reserve: Rugged, untouched wilderness ideal for hiking.
- Dynjandi Waterfall: Magnificent cascading waterfall located nearby.
- Bolungarvík Fishing Museum: Learn about the region’s fishing heritage.
2. Seyðisfjörður: Picturesque Artistic Hub
Located in eastern Iceland, Seyðisfjörður is a picturesque town nestled between towering mountains and a stunning fjord. Known for its colorful wooden houses and vibrant arts scene, Seyðisfjörður is a hidden gem that should not be missed.
Why Visit Seyðisfjörður?
- Charming Architecture: Seyðisfjörður’s brightly colored houses, many of which date back to the early 20th century, are a photographer’s dream. The town has a unique vibe, blending Icelandic and Scandinavian styles.
- Art and Culture: Seyðisfjörður is known for its strong art scene, being home to The LungA Art Festival and The Skaftfell Center for Visual Art. Visitors can enjoy exhibitions, performances, and street art throughout the town.
- Stunning Scenery: Surrounded by waterfalls, mountains, and the tranquil fjord, Seyðisfjörður offers some of the most scenic vistas in Iceland. Area is perfect for hiking and birdwatching.
Must-See Attractions
- Blue Church (Bláa Kirkjan): Beautiful church that hosts concerts and art exhibitions.
- Fjardará River and Waterfalls: Series of small waterfalls located just outside the town.
- Skalanes Nature Reserve: Haven for wildlife enthusiasts with opportunities to see puffins, seals, and reindeer.
3. Akureyri: Capital of the North
Akureyri, often referred to as the “Capital of the North,” is the largest city outside of Reykjavik and offers a wealth of experiences without the crowds. Surrounded by fjords and mountains, Akureyri is a fantastic destination for those looking to experience Icelandic culture, outdoor adventures, and stunning landscapes.
Why Visit Akureyri?
- Year-Round Destination: Visit in the summer for hiking and whale watching or in the winter for skiing and Northern Lights viewing, Akureyri offers activities for all seasons.
- Vibrant Culture: Akureyri has a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and festivals. City’s botanical garden, Lystigarður Akureyrar, is a must-see, especially in the summer when it’s in full bloom.
- Outdoor Adventures: From the nearby Hlíðarfjall Ski Resort to the incredible hiking trails around Lake Mývatn, Akureyri is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Must-See Attractions
- Akureyri Church: A stunning church designed by Guðjón Samúelsson, the architect behind Reykjavík’s Hallgrímskirkja.
- Whale Watching: Akureyri is one of the best places in Iceland for whale watching, with regular boat tours.
- Goðafoss Waterfall: Known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” this iconic waterfall is located just outside of Akureyri.
4. Húsavík: Whale Watching Capital
Located on the northern coast, Húsavík is often referred to as the “Whale Watching Capital of Iceland.” Small, charming town offers visitors a chance to experience Iceland’s wildlife and unique local culture.
Why Visit Húsavík?
- Whale Watching: Húsavík is renowned for its whale watching tours, with sightings of humpback whales, minke whales, and occasionally blue whales. The town also has a fascinating Whale Museum.
- Natural Beauty: With its picturesque harbor and views of snow-capped mountains, Húsavík is one of the most scenic towns in Iceland. Town’s proximity to Lake Mývatn and the Dettifoss Waterfall makes it an excellent base for exploring the region.
- Cultural Heritage: Húsavík has a rich history, and visitors can explore the local culture at the Húsavík Museum and the charming Wooden Church, one of the oldest churches in Iceland.
Must-See Attractions
- Whale Watching Tours: A must-do activity in Húsavík, with tours operating from April to October.
- Geosea Geothermal Sea Baths: Relax in natural geothermal waters with stunning views of the ocean and mountains.
- Asbyrgi Canyon: A horseshoe-shaped canyon located nearby, perfect for hiking and photography.
5. Borgarnes: Quiet Coastal Retreat
Borgarnes, located just an hour’s drive from Reykjavik, is often bypassed by tourists heading towards the Golden Circle or Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Small coastal town offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views and plenty of historical and cultural attractions.
Why Visit Borgarnes?
- Rich History: Borgarnes is home to the Settlement Center, which offers exhibits on the early Viking settlers and the famous Icelandic Sagas.
- Natural Beauty: With its coastal location, Borgarnes offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and fjords. Nearby Hraunfossar Waterfalls and Deildartunguhver Hot Springs are also must-visit attractions.
- Family-Friendly: Borgarnes is a great destination for families, with a variety of activities such as hiking, fishing, and exploring local museums.
Must-See Attractions
- Settlement Center: Learn about Iceland’s Viking history and the famous sagas.
- Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfalls: A series of stunning waterfalls located nearby.
- Borgarfjörður Fjord: Take in the breathtaking views of this tranquil fjord.
6. Egilsstaðir: Gateway to the East
Egilsstaðir is the largest town in eastern Iceland and serves as the gateway to some of the region’s most stunning landscapes. Many tourists overlook this area, Egilsstaðir offers a unique opportunity to explore the quieter, less-visited parts of the country.
Why Visit Egilsstaðir?
- Eastern Fjords: Eastern fjords are some of the most dramatic and beautiful in Iceland, yet they remain relatively untouched by mass tourism. Egilsstaðir is the perfect base for exploring this region.
- Wildlife: Area around Egilsstaðir is home to Iceland’s largest forest, Hallormsstaðaskógur, and Lagarfljót, a long lake said to be home to a legendary sea serpent.
- Cultural Heritage: Egilsstaðir has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can learn about local traditions at the East Iceland Heritage Museum.
Must-See Attractions
- Hallormsstaðaskógur Forest: Largest forest in Iceland, perfect for hiking and picnicking.
- Lagarfljót Lake: Known for its folklore, including the story of the Lagarfljót Worm.
- Vök Baths: A new geothermal spa offering a relaxing experience in the midst of nature.
7. Stykkishólmur: Gateway to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Stykkishólmur is a charming fishing town located on the northern side of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It is often bypassed by tourists heading towards more famous attractions, but it offers plenty of scenic beauty and a laid-back atmosphere.
Why Visit Stykkishólmur?
- Historical Charm: Stykkishólmur has a well-preserved old town with colorful wooden houses that date back to the 19th century. The town’s harbor is also one of the most picturesque in Iceland.
- Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Stykkishólmur is the perfect base for exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, known for its stunning landscapes, including the Snæfellsjökull Glacier.
- Sea Tours: The town is known for its Viking Sushi Boat Tours, which allow visitors to explore the surrounding islands and taste fresh seafood straight from the sea.
Must-See Attractions
- Snæfellsjökull National Park: Explore the glacier and surrounding volcanic landscapes.
- Library of Water: An art installation featuring columns of water collected from Iceland’s glaciers.
- Súgandisey Cliff: Short hike offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding area.
Iceland, famous for its dramatic landscapes filled with glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls, is a dream destination for many. Yet, most visitors tend to stick to the well-known spots like Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon, and the Golden Circle, missing out on some of Iceland’s lesser-known scenic cities. Hidden gems offer rich culture, breathtaking views, and a peaceful escape from the crowds. Scenic cities in Iceland that tourists often miss, but should absolutely consider visiting.
