Iceland's small towns offer incredible landscapes. Explore Grundarfjörður, Vík, and Seyðisfjörður for breathtaking scenery. Indulge in hearty fare like fresh seafood in Húsavík. Chase the Northern Lights in Ólafsvík and Djúpivogur, known for dark skies. Discover charming culture and unforgettable experiences in Stöðvarfjörður and Borgarfjörður Eystri, escaping the crowds.
Why Choose Small Towns in Iceland?
Escaping to a smaller town in Iceland provides a unique and rewarding travel experience. Here are a few reasons why you should consider venturing beyond the capital:
- Authentic Icelandic Culture: Immerse yourself in local traditions and interact with friendly residents, gaining a deeper understanding of Icelandic heritage.
- Unparalleled Natural Beauty: Experience breathtaking landscapes away from the tourist hotspots, with fewer crowds and more opportunities for quiet contemplation.
- Prime Northern Lights Viewing: Smaller towns often have less light pollution, making them ideal locations for spotting the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis.
- Budget-Friendly Travel: Accommodation and dining in smaller towns can often be more affordable than in Reykjavik.
- Unique Activities: Discover hidden waterfalls, hike remote trails, and enjoy activities like whale watching or horseback riding, tailored to the local environment.
8 Best Small Towns in Iceland to Visit
Here are eight of the best small towns in Iceland, each offering a unique blend of stunning landscapes, hearty fare, and opportunities for Northern Lights viewing:
The Best Small Towns in Iceland
To help you plan your adventure, here's a handy table comparing these fantastic destinations:
| Town | Region | Population (approx.) | Known For | Northern Lights Potential | Must-Try Local Fare | Unique Landscape Features |
|---|
| Vik i Myrdal | South Coast | 300 | Black sand beaches, basalt columns, puffin colonies | High | Lamb soup, rye bread ice cream | Reynisfjara black sand beach, Dyrhólaey arch |
| Hofn | Southeast Iceland | 2,300 | Glaciers, langoustine, stunning coastal views | Good | Langoustine, fresh seafood | Vatnajökull glacier, Hornafjörður fjord |
| Seydisfjordur | East Fjords | 700 | Colorful houses, art scene, hiking trails | Medium | Fresh fish, homemade cakes | Picturesque fjord, Rainbow Street, Tvísöngur sound sculpture |
| Husavik | North Iceland | 2,300 | Whale watching, geothermal areas, charming harbor | High | Freshly caught fish, traditional Icelandic pastries | Skjálfandi Bay, Geothermal area (Hveravellir), Ásbyrgi canyon |
| Siglufjordur | North Iceland | 1,200 | Herring fishing history, maritime museum, scenic beauty | High | Herring dishes, traditional Icelandic cuisine | Mountainous surroundings, colorful harbor, Herring Era Museum |
| Stykkisholmur | Snaefellsnes Peninsula | 1,200 | Gateway to Breiðafjörður islands, scenic harbor, charming atmosphere | Medium | Fresh seafood, Plokkfiskur (fish stew) | Sugandisey Island, views of Breiðafjörður, volcanic landscapes |
| Ísafjörður | Westfjords | 2,600 | Gateway to the Westfjords, hiking, kayaking, historical charm | Good | Seafood, traditional Icelandic dishes | Dramatic fjords, steep mountains, diverse birdlife |
| Grundarfjörður | Snaefellsnes Peninsula | 900 | Kirkjufell mountain, fishing, scenic views | High | Fresh seafood, traditional Icelandic bread | Kirkjufell mountain, Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall |
Digging Deeper into the Destinations
Here's a bit more information about each town to help you decide which best suits your interests:
Vik i Myrdal
Vik i Myrdal, located on the South Coast, is famous for its dramatic black sand beaches and the iconic basalt columns of Reynisfjara. This small village is a photographer's dream, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Its southern location and low light pollution make it a great spot for viewing the Northern Lights when conditions are right.
Hofn
Known as the "Lobster Capital of Iceland," Hofn is a charming town in Southeast Iceland. It’s the perfect base for exploring the Vatnajökull glacier, the largest glacier in Europe. The town offers breathtaking coastal views and is relatively less affected by light pollution, increasing your chances of spotting the Aurora Borealis.
Seydisfjordur
Nestled in the East Fjords, Seydisfjordur is a picturesque town with colorful wooden houses and a vibrant art scene. The town is surrounded by stunning mountains and a deep fjord, offering fantastic hiking opportunities. While the fjord itself can sometimes create localized cloud cover, clear nights provide opportunities to witness the Northern Lights dancing above the water.
Husavik
Considered the whale watching capital of Iceland, Husavik is a charming town in North Iceland. From Husavik, you can embark on whale watching tours in Skjálfandi Bay, home to various whale species. The town's northern location makes it a prime location for viewing the Northern Lights during the winter months.
Siglufjordur
Once a bustling herring fishing port, Siglufjordur is now a charming town with a rich history. The Herring Era Museum is a must-visit, showcasing the town's fascinating past. Surrounded by majestic mountains and the ocean, Siglufjordur offers excellent opportunities for Northern Lights viewing away from city lights.
Stykkisholmur
Located on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Stykkisholmur is a picturesque town with a charming harbor and stunning views of Breiðafjörður. The town is a gateway to the islands of Breiðafjörður, offering boat tours to explore the diverse birdlife and unique landscapes. The peninsula itself is known for less light pollution, increasing the chance to catch the stunning show of the Northern Lights.
Ísafjörður
The largest town in the Westfjords, Ísafjörður, is a hub for outdoor activities. It is surrounded by dramatic fjords and steep mountains, offering excellent hiking and kayaking opportunities. The town's remote location in the Westfjords means less light pollution and better chances of seeing the Northern Lights.
Grundarfjörður
Located on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Grundarfjörður boasts stunning views of Kirkjufell mountain, one of Iceland's most iconic landmarks. The town is a popular base for photographers and nature lovers. With minimal light pollution, it's an excellent spot for capturing the magic of the Northern Lights with Kirkjufell in the foreground.
Planning Your Icelandic Small Town Adventure
When planning your trip to Iceland's smaller towns, consider the following:
- Time of Year: The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter months (September to April). Summer offers long daylight hours for exploring but less chance of seeing the aurora.
- Accommodation: Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season. Choose guesthouses, hotels, or even cozy cabins for an authentic experience.
- Transportation: Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Iceland's smaller towns at your own pace. Consider a 4x4 vehicle if you plan to venture into remote areas, especially in winter.
- Activities: Research and book tours and activities in advance, such as whale watching, glacier hiking, or horseback riding.
- Weather: Iceland's weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers of clothing and be prepared for all conditions.
Embark on an unforgettable journey and discover the magic of Iceland's best small towns. You'll be rewarded with stunning landscapes, delicious local cuisine, and unforgettable Northern Lights experiences.
