Travel Blog

Deep in Iceland’s Eastfjords, the fishing village of Seyðisfjörður creates a pretty picture between a peaceful fjord and tall peaks. It shares many hallmarks of Iceland’s wild scenery: glacial valleys, cascading waterfalls, and rugged ridgelines. On closer look, the town reveals an even stronger draw: colorful wooden houses, bursts of unique street art, and a creative spirit. This unique blend of raw nature and thriving culture makes Seyðisfjörður a truly unforgettable stop. Slow down and explore this artistic oasis with our guide on the best things to do in Seyðisfjörður, Iceland.

Living in a landscape as dramatic and beautiful as East Iceland inspires many local artists to unleash their creativity. They paint, sculpt and create handicrafts that represent local scenes and values. You’ll find evidence of their work all over Austurland, from roadside art installations to pieces on show or sale in local boutiques and galleries. We’ve put together a roundup of just some of them to get you started, but the more you explore, the more you’ll encounter.

Iceland’s small population means that regional cuisine isn’t really a thing as it is elsewhere. However, traditional foods are eaten across this part of the country and trying them is a way of connecting with this aspect of Icelandic culture. Let’s take a look at some of the food that you should try during your visit.

Outside Reykjavik, there are few places of a significant size anywhere in Iceland. In Austurland, the largest place is Egilsstaðir, which has a population of less than 3000 inhabitants. Scattered across the region are a plethora of small and ever so charming villages; whether you stumble upon them accidentally or make firm plans to visit, here are some of those you’ll be glad to have experienced first-hand.

Camping is a great way of connecting with nature and even as far north as Iceland, so long as you have warm and weatherproof gear, it’s a pleasant experience. Many of East Iceland’s top sites are located within sight of the region’s most extraordinary views, which only adds to the appeal. In this article, we’ll offer a few suggestions for anyone hoping to go camping in Austurland, from the best sites to our tried and tested tips.

The peaceful inlets, secluded fjords and quiet beaches of East Iceland are the ideal destination for birdwatchers. Avian life flourishes here and there are numerous places where you can observe the behaviour of a range of species. Here’s what you might find, where and when.

You might already know this, but in Iceland, we get pretty excited about summer!

East Iceland (Austurland) is far from the crowds. Here, remote trails, secret spots and a deep connection to nature, culture, and history await. This summer, take the roads less traveled and discover some of East Iceland’s lesser known places. There are countless hidden gems waiting just off the beaten path.

The chance to witness the Midnight Sun in summer and the Northern Lights during the other seasons is a popular reason for tourists to visit Austurland. These natural phenomena are both bucket list worthy, so let’s take a brief look at the basics of achieving a sighting one or other of them when you find yourself in East Iceland.

While Iceland has long attracted winter visitors with its dramatic snowy landscapes and the magical Northern Lights, more travellers are now discovering the thrill of skiing and snowboarding in East Iceland. Though the country’s ski areas may not rival the size of resorts in mainland Europe or North America, they offer something truly unique, unspoiled terrain, fewer crowds, and unforgettable views.

Many people believe that there are no trees in Iceland, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Tucked away in the heart of Austurland lies Hallormsstaðaskógur, the largest forest in the country and a thriving symbol of reforestation, biodiversity, and the deep bond between Icelanders and their natural environment. Located along the eastern shore of Lake Lagarfljót, near Egilsstaðir, Hallormsstaðaskógur is a beloved destination for locals and travelers alike. With its rich mix of native and foreign tree species, peaceful walking trails, and vibrant wildlife, the forest is a living example of how restoration and conservation can bring new life to the land.