Travel Blog

Many travelers who have visited Iceland before link the northern lights with Reykjavík or the south coast. Yet some of the top locations in Iceland to view the northern lights sit quietly in the east. The region stays far from crowds and city lights. If a trip to Iceland is on your calendar this winter, East Iceland deserves a closer look. Iceland sits just below the auroral oval, the band of activity around the magnetic poles. This location makes the northern lights in Iceland a near nightly possibility through the winter months. East Iceland offers even more advantages for anyone planning a hunt for the auroras.

Austurland holds some of the country's quietest landscapes, far from the crowds. Many of its best spots sit within an hour or two of Egilsstaðir, the region's largest town. A short day trip works for some, while others suit a longer road trip. Either way, these East Iceland hidden gems are worth the detour off the Ring Road. Renting a car opens up the full region, from puffin cliffs to basalt canyons hidden behind glacial rivers. Whether you're planning a scenic road trip or hoping to explore beyond Iceland's busiest destinations, East Iceland delivers. It offers plenty of rewarding detours. These hidden corners provide a deeper connection to the region's nature, history, and local culture.

Nestled between dramatic mountains and the sea, Djúpivogur is one of the charming communities waiting to be discovered in Austurland (East Iceland). With its peaceful atmosphere, rich birdlife, scenic landscapes and strong local character, Djúpivogur offers a chance to slow down and experience a different side of Iceland.

East Iceland is home to a wonderful variety of places to eat. Whether you're craving fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, or homemade Icelandic specialties, every stop offers something unique. Many of these restaurants combine delicious food with spectacular scenery, making the journey as memorable as the meal itself. Here are some of the places worth saving for your trip. This summer, take your time, explore the region, and eat your way through East Iceland one great restaurant at a time.