Or try searching by Category and/or Location

Visit North Iceland is responsible for marketing and promotion of North Iceland which is a friendly and tranquil area with a population of 36 thousand, including Akureyri, the largest town outside Reykjavík, and a number of historic coastal towns. Most visited attractions are Vatnajökull National Park, where you find Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall and lake Mývatn geothermal region with hot springs, volcanic areas, craters, geothermal nature baths and amazing lava formations. We have magical winters with Iceland‘s most popular ski area, energising off-piste skiing and 13 Yule Lads (Santas) on top of unique locations for Northern Lights observation.

Welcome to Austurland

Communities

About 13,000 people live in Austurland, which is 22,721 km² and geographically diverse. Communities are scattered, and the towns are different even though most of them developed around the fishing industry. Today, tourism and industry are also prominent in Austurland and each community has its own characteristics. You are welcome to visit!

Practical Information

It is important to keep a few things in mind when travelling in Iceland. It is necessary to keep up with the weather forecast, even during summer, and road conditions. You must get familiar with the Icelandic Króna (currency) and pack appropriately for the season you are visiting, you can expect all kinds of weather all year round. And there is no need to buy water because the tap water is great!

Top Destinations

While travelling through Austurland you will without a doubt spot some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Towering mountains and powerful waterfalls are just a fraction of the amazing destinations the region has to offer. Below we have handpicked several destinations that no traveller should leave unseen.

Food and Drink

Austurland is renowned for its diverse food traditions where local ingredients are highly regarded. Austurland features a variety of restaurants and cafés where every traveller should find something to their liking.

Destination Guide

Summer

Winter

Top Destinations

TOP DESTINATION

Eggin í Gleðivík

Eggin í Gleðivík (The Eggs in Merry Bay) are outdoor works that show 34 replicas of eggs of nesting birds that nest in the vicinity of Djúpivogur. There is a rich birdlife in the area and the eggs reflect the strong connection that Djúpivogur has with nature. Eggs in Gleðivík is a popular tourist destination and has become one of the landmarks of Djúpivogur.

TOP DESTINATION

Hengifoss

Apart from having recently been re-defined as Iceland's second-highest waterfall, the Hengifoss is particularly picturesque. The layers between numerous Tertiary lava strata yield a reddish color particularly salient in the cliffs around Hengifoss. Moreover, underway towards Hengifoss, the Litlanesfoss presents impressive stands of basalt columns on both sides of the gorge. Usually, the climb ends well below Hengifoss, at a point where it can easily be admired without crossing the river. However, if the flow is scarce - as is often the case in autumn - it is feasible to go closer and even enter a shallow cave behind the waterfall. There is an easy walking path from the highway to Hengifoss, it takes 40-60 minutes to walk from the parking lot to the waterfall. www.hengifoss.is

TOP DESTINATION

Hólmanes

Between Reyðarfjörður and Eskifjörður you can visit the Nature reserve Hólmanes. This is an ideal place to enjoy a good walk either down to the sea or up the hills. Birds and remarkable rock formations can be enjoyed in Hólmanes. With luck, you could stumble upon a herd of reindeers.

TOP DESTINATION

Páskahellir

There are beautiful natural sights like the cave Páskahellir down by the shore of Neskaupsstaður. The walk from the entrance of the Nature Reserve to the site is about 10 to 15 min.

TOP DESTINATION

Rainbow Street

Painted by the locals, Rainbow Street in Seyðisfjörður is probably one of the most well-known landmarks in East Iceland. At the end of the rainbow, you can find the beautiful Blue Church.

TOP DESTINATION

Reindeer Park

The Reindeer Park in Egilsstaðir is truly unique in Iceland – the only place where you can get up close and personal with reindeer.

Ski resorts

The Eastfjords boast excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Try your skills on the slopes of Stafdalur or Oddskarð, popular ski areas where both beginners and experts can enjoy the thrill of gliding down the mountainside while enjoying breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding mountains.

TOP DESTINATION

Stuðlagil Canyon

In the valley Jökuldalur (Glacier Valley) in Austurland - East Iceland there is a marvelous natural site that almost nobody knew about until recently. For a long time it was hidden underwater or until the hydroelectric plant Kárahnjúkavirkjun was built and the water flow in the glacier river Jökulsá á Dal, a.k.a. Jökla, was remarkably reduced.

Vök Baths

At Vök Baths you will find, floating geothermal pools with infinity view, two on shore hot pools, a sauna, cold water spray tunnel, tea bar, an in-water pool bar, and the on-site restaurant, Vök Bistro.

Coastal Experience

Drive from Egilsstaðir to Reyðarfjörður. Stop at the Wartime Museum to learn about the relations of soldiers and local residents during World War II. Opt whether to drive to Fáskrúðsfjörður through the tunnel or on the old, partly gravel road near Skrúður Island. Enjoy a meal at L’abri Restaurant in Fáskrúðsfjörður village, as well as the museum devoted to French fishermen and their heritage.

Fjord to Fjord

Start your day in Egilsstaðir and drive towards Seyðisfjörður. Where you start climbing the slopes onto Fjarðarheiði pass, you should stop and walk up to Fardagafoss waterfall. You can even clamber behind it and view Egilsstaðir from the trail.

Highland Circle

Start bright and early visiting Vallanes Organic Farm for breakfast. Then drive through Iceland’s biggest woods, Hallormsstaðaskógur, and hike up to Hengifoss, Iceland’s second-highest waterfall.

On the Edge

We recommend you take 2-3 days to enjoy this route to its fullest. You won't regret taking your time to become on with the Icelandic landscape and heritage.

The Ring of Riverdale

The Ring of Riverdale is one of the most popular travel routes in Austurland, as it is probably the most popular among locals. You will find historical connections everywhere and many hiking trails. Sustainability and food from the region are highly valued. One of Iceland's highest waterfalls, Hengifoss, is located in Fljótsdalur.

Travel Stories

Understanding the East Fjords Iceland: Remote Villages and Nature

Explore the remote fishing villages and rugged nature of the East Fjords. Learn about the history, wildlife, and quiet coastal life in Iceland's hidden east.
Hygge in East Iceland: Embracing Cozy Local Life and Traditions

Experience the Icelandic version of hygge in the East Fjords. Learn about cozy local traditions, warm cafes, and the slow pace of life in the East.
Skiing in the East Fjords: Best Slopes and Local Mountains

East Iceland offers a winter landscape that feels largely untouched by the modern rush. While many travelers head north for downhill thrills, those who venture east discover something quieter. Here, mountains rise straight from the sea, and the snow stays crisp beneath wide, open skies. In the East Fjords, skiing in Iceland takes on a different rhythm. Deep fjords, narrow mountain passes, and a lingering sense of calm shape the experience. Accessible ski resorts sit alongside rugged backcountry terrain, creating a balanced mix of comfort and adventure. In winter, the pace slows. You’ll find yourself sharing the slopes with locals who have skied these peaks for generations. All while looking out over the dark blue waters of the North Atlantic.
Snowshoeing Iceland: Winter Trails in the East Fjords

Snowshoeing in Iceland’s East Fjords offers a quieter rhythm. Here, winter settles gently over steep mountains and narrow fjords. It softens rough terrain and turns summer hiking paths into calm white corridors. For travelers seeking winter activities beyond the usual routes, this region feels refreshingly off the beaten track. Snow falls overnight. Wind shapes the drifts. By morning, your footprints may be the only ones crossing a hillside above the sea. A snowshoe hike here embraces the silence found between the peaks and the ocean. This guide explores the best trails for snowshoeing in East Iceland. Learn essential safety tips for the Arctic winter. And discover why the East remains a primary choice for a peaceful snowshoe hiking tour.