Neskaupstaður Travel Guide: A Hidden Gem at the Edge of the Eastfjords
Tucked inside Norðfjörður and surrounded by towering mountains, colourful cliffs and the open sea, Neskaupstaður is one of Austurland's (East Iceland) most dramatic and distinctive communities. Known as Iceland's easternmost town, it offers a chance to experience a quieter side of the Eastfjords, where nature, local history, maritime traditions and everyday life come together.
Part of The Fjord Way, Neskaupstaður is a destination worth taking the time to explore. From the protected landscapes of the Neskaupstaður Nature Reserve and boat trips along the fjord to horseback riding, fascinating museums, local food and relaxing in the town swimming pool, there are plenty of ways to experience the area. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences or simply a peaceful place to slow down and enjoy the scenery, Neskaupstaður offers something for every traveller.
The ideas in this guide are intended as inspiration for travelling from spring through autumn, roughly from late April to early October. Conditions in Iceland can change quickly, and road access and travel conditions may vary with the weather and season. Opening times and availability for accommodation, restaurants, museums, activities and other services can also vary throughout the year, particularly outside the main summer season. Always check current road conditions before setting out, and check opening times and availability directly with individual businesses and attractions before you visit.
1. Explore Iceland's First Nature Reserve
The Neskaupstaður Nature Reserve is one of Austurland's natural treasures and a wonderful place to experience the dramatic landscapes surrounding the town. Hiking trails lead through rugged mountains and along spectacular coastal landscapes, with sweeping views across Norðfjörður. The area is also known for its rich birdlife and untouched scenery, making it a rewarding destination for hikers, photographers and nature lovers.
The combination of steep cliffs, colourful rock formations, ocean views and wild landscapes gives the reserve a character that is distinctly East Icelandic.
Photographer: Jessica Auer
2. Experience the Fjord from the Sea
The best way to appreciate the dramatic setting of Neskaupstaður may be from the water. Join an Fjarðaferðir (Elding) boat tour to explore Norðfjörður and the surrounding coastline from a different perspective. From the sea, the scale of the mountains and cliffs becomes even more impressive, while the fjord offers opportunities to discover hidden corners of the Eastfjords and experience the area's rich connection to the ocean.
Photo: Elding
3. Explore the Eastfjords on Horseback
For a more traditional Icelandic experience, head out on horseback with Skorrahestar. Riding through the landscapes around Neskaupstaður allows you to experience the mountains, valleys and coastline at a slower pace, surrounded by the Icelandic countryside. It is a memorable way to connect with the landscape while getting to know the Icelandic horse, one of the country's most beloved traditions.
Photo: Skorrahestar
4. Dive Into Local History
Neskaupstaður has a fascinating collection of museums that offer insight into the town and the wider history of the Eastfjords. The Museum building in Neskaupstaður brings together three unique museums under one roof: the Museum of Natural History Neskaupstaður, the Jósafat Hinriksson’s Maritime Museum and the Tryggvi Ólafsson Art Museum, offering visitors a fascinating insight into the region’s natural environment, maritime heritage and artistic traditions.
Whether you're interested in art, local history, maritime heritage or the natural world, the Museums of Neskaupstaður provide an opportunity to learn more about the people, traditions and landscapes that have shaped this remote community.
They are especially worthwhile on a rainy day, but also make a great addition to a day spent exploring the town and surrounding nature.
5. Relax like a local
After a day of hiking, horseback riding or exploring the fjord, slow down at the Norðfjörður swimming pool. Swimming pools are an important part of everyday life in Iceland, and the local pool is a welcoming place to relax throughout the year. Enjoy the swimming facilities, hot tubs and sauna while taking in views of the surrounding mountains and fjord.
It is a simple experience, but one of the best ways to experience the slower rhythm of life in Neskaupstaður.
Photographer: Páll Guðmundsson
6. Taste local flavours
Neskaupstaður has several welcoming places to enjoy a meal, coffee or something freshly prepared. At Hildibrand, the on-site restaurant reflects the history of the building, which once served as a co-operative shop, as well as the area's long traditions of fishing and farming. Their lunch buffet is a popular choice for visitors looking for a relaxed and satisfying meal. For a more atmospheric experience, The Bait Shack sits beside the harbour in a building with a long maritime history. After nearly a century of use connected to life at sea, the house was restored and reopened as a bar and restaurant in 2017.
Together, these places offer a taste of the local community and the traditions that continue to shape life in Neskaupstaður.
Photographer: Esther Ösp Gunnarsdóttir
7. Stay in Neskaupstaður
Neskaupstaður is a rewarding place to stay overnight, particularly if you want to explore the nature reserve, take a boat trip or simply experience the town without rushing.
The Cliff Hotel offers modern accommodation with beautiful views, while Hildibrand Apartment Hotel provides a comfortable and central base in town. For a quieter countryside experience, Skorrahestar Guesthouse combines accommodation with horses and beautiful natural surroundings.
Staying overnight gives you more time to discover the surrounding landscapes and experience the peaceful atmosphere of Norðfjörður in the evening and early morning.
Photographer: Esther Ösp Gunnarsdóttir
Plan Your Visit to Neskaupstaður
Ready to explore Neskaupstaður? Discover more ideas and visit the Neskaupstaður community website for more detailed information for things to see and do, places to stay, food, hiking and experiences in Neskaupstaður and its surroundings, and add the fjord to your own Fjord Way itinerary.
Is Neskaupstaður worth visiting?
Absolutely. Neskaupstaður combines dramatic fjord scenery with hiking, wildlife, maritime history, museums, horseback riding, boat tours and local food. Its remote setting also makes it a great place to experience a quieter side of the Eastfjords.
What is Neskaupstaður known for?
Neskaupstaður is known as Iceland's easternmost town and for its dramatic location at the end of Norðfjörður. It is also known for the Neskaupstaður Nature Reserve, rich maritime heritage, museums, outdoor activities and spectacular mountain and ocean views.
What can you do in Neskaupstaður?
Popular experiences include exploring the Neskaupstaður Nature Reserve, taking a boat tour on Norðfjörður, horseback riding with Skorrahestar, visiting the local museums, relaxing at the swimming pool and enjoying local food.
Can you hike in Neskaupstaður?
Yes. The Neskaupstaður Nature Reserve offers scenic hiking opportunities through rugged landscapes, along the coast and into the surrounding mountains. The area is known for dramatic views, birdlife and colourful cliffs.
Can you take a boat tour from Neskaupstaður?
Yes. Boat tours offer a different way to experience Norðfjörður and the surrounding Eastfjords, with opportunities to see the dramatic coastline and mountains from the sea.
Where can you go horseback riding near Neskaupstaður?
Skorrahestar offers horseback riding experiences in the beautiful countryside surrounding Neskaupstaður. It is a great way to experience the landscape while getting to know the Icelandic horse.
What museums are in Neskaupstaður?
The Museums of Neskaupstaður cover a range of subjects connected to the town and region, including local history, art, maritime heritage and nature. They provide an interesting insight into life in this remote part of East Iceland.
Where can you eat in Neskaupstaður?
Hildibrand offers a relaxed restaurant experience and is known for its lunch buffet, while The Bait Shack provides harbour-side dining in a historic building with strong connections to Neskaupstaður's maritime past.
Where can you stay in Neskaupstaður?
Accommodation options include The Cliff Hotel, Hildibrand Apartment Hotel, Skorrahestar Guesthouse and The Bank Sleeping. There are options ranging from central town accommodation to peaceful countryside stays.
How long should you spend in Neskaupstaður?
You can experience some of the town's highlights in a day, but staying one or two nights gives you more time for hiking, boat trips, horseback riding, museums and local food without feeling rushed.
Is Neskaupstaður part of The Fjord Way?
Yes. Neskaupstaður is one of the communities along The Fjord Way, connecting travellers with the fjords, landscapes and coastal communities of Austurland (East Iceland).