The 5 most charming cities in Iceland

Iceland is known for its impressive nature: breathtaking waterfalls, steaming geysers and magical ice caves. But also the cities of the island have a lot to offer and should not be missed during a trip. If you want to learn more about Iceland's most beautiful cities, this article is for you. Find out in which city you have the best chance to see whales up close and how it came to be that a settlement was established on the distant island.

Reykjavik - the young and cosmopolitan capital city

The capital impresses with its special architecture and Nordic flair. With about 120,000 inhabitants, Reykjavik is the largest city in the country and the northernmost capital in the world. Located directly on the coast, Reykjavik is considered the first permanent settlement in the country. Numerous modern buildings line the city center and there are many interesting museums to discover. Trendy boutiques, cute cafes and iconic bars can be found on every street corner.

The lively city comes to life especially during the long summer nights, when numerous music festivals and cultural events are on the agenda. Reykjavik is the perfect starting point for trips to the famous Thingvellir National Park and in the surrounding area there are other impressive natural phenomena such as the Blue Lagoon or bubbling geysers. Thus, the Icelandic capital offers a perfect mix of urban life and unspoiled nature.

Akureyri - center of Icelandic culture

With its brightly painted wooden houses, cosy bars and steep streets, Akureyri inspires with its special charm and versatile exploration possibilities. The town centre is home to a number of interesting cultural and historical museums that tell the story of the fishing town. The highlight, however, is the botanical garden, where almost all plants growing in Iceland can be admired. Especially during the long summer months there are a lot of concerts, festivals and exhibitions. Akureyri is also the best starting point for the spectacular beauties of the north, such as the Myvatn region, the Dettifoss and Godafoss waterfalls and the Asbyrgi Gorge.

Vík í Mýrdal - the town above the volcano

Vik i Myrdal is the southernmost village in Iceland and home to just under 200 people. Situated on shores and black sand beaches, the small town rises on a grassy hill. The beach sand consists of black Basalt*The village is located directly under a huge volcano. Especially the cliffs and the rock formations, which look like ghosts, should not be missed when you are in Vik i Myrdal.

Siglufjördur - the small town by the fjord

Surrounded by spectacular landscapes at the foot of a mountain lies the town of Siglufjördur with its 1,300 inhabitants. The townscape is characterized by quaint houses and a picturesque harbor. Despite its small size, the town impresses with its lively art scene and creativity. Icelandic hospitality is evident here and the people of Seyðisfjörður are happy to welcome any visitor and are extremely friendly. The town is the center of herring fishing in Iceland and its unusual location at the innermost tip of a fjord offers the opportunity to hike on the hills rising from the water.

Husavik - the whale capital of Iceland

According to legend, Húsavík, not Reykjavk, was the first settled place in Iceland: a Viking who wintered in the town left behind a man and two slaves when he left, and they established a farm there. The town in the northeast of the country is often referred to as the whale capital of Iceland, as Husavik is the perfect place to observe the giants of the seas up close. Up to 23 species of whales cavort in the bays. Before the big whale waking* tour, you can get in the mood for this experience at the whale museum in Húsavík. Here you will find, among other things, a 22m long skeleton of a blue whale.

You want to experience the most beautiful cities of Iceland live?

Curious to learn more about the beauty of Iceland and discover the country? Then our Round trip through Iceland with the breathtaking natural scenery, most worth seeing cities and authentic encounters with the local culture will definitely be something for you.

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