Akureyri Shore Excursions You Can Do Independently

Akureyri, Iceland's charming northern capital, is a popular cruise port that welcomes thousands of visitors each year. While ship-organized tours are convenient, exploring Akureyri independently gives you more freedom, flexibility, and often saves you money. 

This guide will help you discover the best shore excursions you can do on your own when your cruise docks in this beautiful Icelandic town.

Getting Started: From Port to Town

When your cruise ship docks in Akureyri, you'll find yourself just a short walk from the town center. The port is conveniently located, and most attractions in downtown Akureyri are within 10-15 minutes on foot. The walk along the harbor is pleasant and gives you great views of the surrounding mountains.

If you prefer not to walk, local taxis are available at the port, and there's also a free shuttle bus service that many cruise lines provide. The town itself is compact and easy to navigate, making it perfect for independent exploration.

Exploring Downtown Akureyri

Akureyri Church

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Akureyri Church (Akureyrarkirkja), which sits on a hill overlooking the town. This beautiful Lutheran church was designed by architect Guðjón Samúelsson and completed in 1940. The walk uphill takes about 10-15 minutes from the town center, but the views from the top are absolutely worth it.

Inside, you'll find stunning stained glass windows and a peaceful atmosphere. The church is free to enter, and you can usually visit between services. Don't forget your camera – the photo opportunities both inside and from the church steps are fantastic.

Botanical Gardens

The Akureyri Botanical Garden (Lystigarður Akureyrar) is one of the northernmost botanical gardens in the world. It's a peaceful oasis featuring plants from Iceland and around the world. Entry is free, and it's about a 20-minute walk from the port or a short taxi ride.

The gardens are beautifully maintained and offer a quiet escape from the busier parts of town. It's an especially nice spot if you're visiting during the summer months when everything is in bloom.

Also read, Top Things to Do in Akureyri During a Cruise Stop

Downtown Shopping and Cafés

Akureyri's main shopping street, Hafnarstræti, is lined with charming boutiques, souvenir shops, and cozy cafés. This is where you can pick up Icelandic wool sweaters, local handicrafts, and unique gifts. The street has a friendly, small-town atmosphere that makes browsing enjoyable.

Stop at one of the local bakeries or coffee shops for a taste of Icelandic pastries and coffee. The locals are generally friendly and many speak excellent English, so don't hesitate to ask for recommendations.

Popular Independent Excursions Near Akureyri

Godafoss Waterfall

Godafoss, or "Waterfall of the Gods," is one of Iceland's most spectacular waterfalls and is easily accessible from Akureyri. Located about 45 minutes away by car, this horseshoe-shaped waterfall is 12 meters high and 30 meters wide.

If you're renting a car, simply take Route 1 (the Ring Road) east from Akureyri. The waterfall has a large parking area and viewing platforms on both sides, allowing you to appreciate it from different angles. The paths are well-maintained, making it accessible for most visitors.

For those interested in a more comprehensive experience, there are Godafoss waterfall tours that combine this stunning sight with other nearby attractions, making the most of your limited port time.

Lake Mývatn Area

Lake Mývatn is about an hour's drive from Akureyri and offers some of Iceland's most unique landscapes. The area is known for its volcanic features, geothermal activity, and incredible birdlife. While visiting independently is possible with a rental car, the area is quite spread out.

Key attractions around Lake Mývatn include:

• Mývatn Nature Baths: Iceland's northern answer to the Blue Lagoon, offering geothermal pools with stunning views
• Dimmuborgir: Dramatic lava formations that look like a dark castle
• Hverir: A geothermal area with bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles
• Grjótagjá Cave: A small lava cave with a thermal spring inside

Many visitors find that a Lake Mývatn tour helps them see more of the area efficiently, especially when cruise time is limited. These tours typically include transportation and a knowledgeable guide who can explain the geological wonders you're seeing.

Whale Watching from Akureyri

Eyjafjörður, the fjord where Akureyri sits, is one of Iceland's best locations for whale watching. Humpback whales are commonly spotted here, along with minke whales, dolphins, and even the occasional blue whale.

The whale watching tours depart right from Akureyri harbor, making them incredibly convenient for cruise passengers. Tours typically last 3 hours, giving you plenty of time to return to your ship. The tour operators provide warm overalls and expert guides who help spot and identify the marine life.

This is one activity where booking a tour makes sense even for independent travelers, as you need a boat to get out into the fjord where the whales are.

Dalvík and Beer Spa

For something completely different, consider visiting the nearby fishing village of Dalvík, about 30 minutes north of Akureyri. Here you'll find Iceland's unique beer spa, where you can soak in tubs filled with beer, hops, and yeast – ingredients said to be beneficial for your skin.

The village itself is charming and offers a glimpse into traditional Icelandic fishing culture. You can combine this with a scenic drive along the fjord, stopping at viewpoints along the way.

Renting a Car in Akureyri

Renting a car gives you maximum flexibility to explore at your own pace. Several international and local car rental companies have offices in Akureyri, and some will deliver cars to the port for an additional fee.

Important considerations:

• Book in advance, especially during summer months (June-August)
• Make sure you understand Icelandic driving rules
• Roads are generally good, but can be narrow in places
• Gas stations are available in Akureyri and along major routes
• Keep track of time to ensure you return before your ship departs
• Most companies require a credit card for deposit

A small car is usually sufficient for visiting nearby attractions like Godafoss or exploring the local area.

Best Excursions by Available Time

2-3 Hours (Short Port Stop)

• Downtown Akureyri walking tour
• Akureyri Church and town center
• Botanical Gardens
• Local cafés and shopping

4-5 Hours (Half Day)

• Godafoss waterfall (round trip with time to explore)
• Whale watching tour
• Akureyri town plus one nearby attraction
• Beer spa in Dalvík

6-8 Hours (Full Day)

• Lake Mývatn area highlights
• Diamond Circle tour
• Multiple waterfalls and viewpoints
• Combination of town exploration and one major excursion

8+ Hours (Extended Port Call)

• Complete Diamond Circle including Dettifoss
• Lake Mývatn with Nature Baths
• North Iceland scenic drive with multiple stops
• Grimsey Island day trip (requires advance planning)

Making the Most of Your Time

The key to successful independent shore excursions in Akureyri is planning ahead while remaining flexible. Research your options before your cruise, but don't overschedule yourself. Iceland's beauty often lies in unexpected moments – a rainbow over the fjord, a friendly conversation with a local, or simply sitting with a coffee and taking in the mountain views.

Akureyri and its surroundings offer something for everyone, whether you're interested in nature, culture, adventure, or relaxation. The compact size of the town combined with the dramatic natural attractions nearby makes it ideal for independent exploration.