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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

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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.

Hafnarhólmi

Hafnarhólmi islet at the harbour in Borgarfjörður Eystri is perfect for birdwatching. Hafnarhólmi is easily the most accessible Atlantic Puffin colony in Iceland where they nest every year from middle of April to beginning of August. Kittiwakes, Fulmar and Common Eider also nest in Hafnarhólmi along with many other bird species.

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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

Klifbrekkufossar

Klifbrekkufossar is a magnificent tier of waterfalls in Mjóifjörður.

Neskaupstaður Nature Reserve

The reserve, stretching from Stórilækur toward the ocean, became formally protected on November 29th, 1972, making Neskaupstaður Nature Reserve the first of its sort in Iceland. In fact, only a few towns in Iceland have access to such an ideal area for preservation at their very doorstep.

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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.

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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.

Stapi in Lækjavík

Stapi in Stapavík

In Stapavík, south of Djúpivogur an close to Höfn, there is a majestic cliff rising about 20 meters out of the sea. It is landlocked and is a little way from the mainland cliff. Popular with locals and tourists alike, the cliff the beach south of Álftafjörður are considered unique natural gems and therefore essential stops when visiting the area.

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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.

The Fjord Way

The Fjord Way invites travelers on a journey through the peaceful fjords of East Iceland, where winding coastal roads connect dramatic landscapes, charming seaside villages, and some of the region’s most beautiful natural attractions. Away from the main routes, visitors can experience fresh ocean air, ever changing scenery, and a landscape shaped by both powerful geological forces and centuries of life closely connected to the sea.

The Highland Circle

The Highland Circle is a scenic travel route in East Iceland that forms a circular journey from Egilsstaðir, leading travelers through peaceful woodlands, fertile valleys and the remote Icelandic highlands. Along the route, visitors experience the remarkable diversity of East Iceland, where the landscape constantly changes from forests and rivers to mountains, waterfalls and breathtaking highland views.

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Travel Stories

Breiðdalsvík Travel Guide: Things to Do in One of Iceland's Most Peaceful Villages

Nestled between colourful mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, Breiðdalsvík is one of Iceland's most peaceful villages. While small in size, it offers visitors a rich mix of nature, history, outdoor adventures, local food, and authentic Icelandic hospitality. Whether you're driving Iceland's Ring Road or exploring Austurland (East Iceland) in more depth, Breiðdalsvík is a destination where it's worth slowing down. From dramatic waterfalls and scenic hikes to fascinating geology and quiet coastal landscapes, this charming village is an ideal stop for travellers looking to experience another side of Iceland.
Seyðisfjörður Travel Guide: Discover One of East Iceland’s Most Charming Fjord Towns

Seyðisfjörður is one of Iceland’s most beautiful and memorable towns — a colorful fjord village surrounded by dramatic mountains, cascading waterfalls, creative energy, and unforgettable outdoor adventures. Located in Austurland (East Iceland), Seyðisfjörður is famous for its iconic Rainbow Street and blue church, but there is much more to discover beyond its picture perfect streets. From scenic viewpoints and hiking trails to local food, art, history, and fjord adventures, Seyðisfjörður offers experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you are visiting during a Ring Road adventure, arriving by ferry, or exploring the hidden gems of Austurland, this guide will help you discover the best things to do in Seyðisfjörður.
Best Hikes in Iceland for Autumn Adventures

Discover the best hikes in Iceland this autumn, from basalt canyons to waterfall trails. Fewer crowds and fall colours make September and October ideal.
Things to Do in Fáskrúðsfjörður & Stöðvarfjörður: A Guide to Two Hidden Gems in the Eastfjords

If you're exploring the Eastfjords of Iceland, don't rush past the neighbouring villages of Fáskrúðsfjörður and Stöðvarfjörður. Nestled between dramatic mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, these two charming fjords are filled with fascinating history, scenic hiking trails, unique museums, local flavours and unforgettable landscapes. Whether you're travelling the Ring Road or planning a longer stay in East Iceland, these neighbouring communities offer the perfect combination of culture, nature and authentic local experiences.