Fjord to Fjord: Summer

A classic Austurland summertime travel route, Fjord to Fjord draws tourists and Icelanders to explore the winding coast and stunning trails. When the sunlight hits the water and weather is calm, few places can beat a beautiful fjord.

Did you know that Austurland boasts some of the warmest summer temperatures in Iceland, and plentiful sunshine? Not surprisingly, this brings sun-seeking Icelanders to the region, keen for golf, fishing, hiking, and long nights under the midnight sun.

Seyðisfjörður buzzes with visitors and events, as the weekly ferry to and from Europe brings a crowd. Restaurants and bars are in full swing, but there are plenty of chances to escape into nature.

Summer is the season to visit Mjóifjörður. It’s a breathtaking road from Hwy 1 to the fjord, but it’s open for only about four months of the year (and it’s not a sealed road, so drive slowly and carefully!). In the right car you can drive the length of the fjord, all the way to the lighthouses of Dalatangi, Iceland’s easternmost point.

The towns of Reyðarfjörður, Eskifjörður and Neskaupstaður have different characters and equally lovely scenery, together with varied cultural attractions. Seafood restaurants in Eskifjörður and Neskaupstaður have plenty of atmosphere. These towns also have family friendly nature reserves that are summer homes to visiting birdlife, and swimming pools with great mountain views.

There’s enough to fill a few sunny days here: hike Seyðisfjörður’s Waterfall Valley, explore the remarkable Iceland spar mine at Helgustaðir near Eskifjörður, take a horseback ride through the mountains outside Neskaupstaður, and more. Rainy days can be spent uncovering local stories of wartime, art, and history.

From the route’s end at Neskaupstaður, you might want to rejoin the Ring Road and retrace your steps to Egilsstaðir, or head south, winding through more Austurland fjord highlights. Check out The Coastal Experience travel route to create a fantastic circuit .

You may not have time to see everything we include on this travel route. We recommend you plan your trip using the 'Add to favorites' tool on our page. By bookmarking your favorite attractions and experiences in this way, you can tailor a route through Austurland that's perfect for you!

For great information on the areas covered, check out the Visit Fjarðabyggð website (Fjarðabyggð is the name of the municipality covering many of the fjords) and Visit Seyðisfjörður.