HIGHLIGHTS OF AKUREYRI

Check out the map on pages 110-111 for the locations!

Akureyri Thermal Pool

One of Akureyri’s most popular attractions, the Akureyri Thermal Pool is a great place to take your family, group, significant other, or yourself. Whether relaxing in the warm water or splashing around with the kids, you’re bound to leave the pool feeling energised and refreshed. The hot tubs and outdoor pools and the thrilling waterslides ensure everyone can find something to their liking.

the 100+ steps should be on everyone’s

The Botanical Garden

The garden is one of the northernmost botanical gardens in the world and is equally popular with locals and visitors. The public park was opened in 1912, and the botanical section in 1957. There are about 6,600 foreign species and over 400 native species, making the Botanical Garden an excellent choice for those wishing for a break from day-to-day stress.

Literary Homes

Akureyri has been home to many a respected poet and author. Two of the more celebrated ones have earned the honour of having their homes preserved as museums. They are Jón Sveinsson, an author of autobiographical children’s books better known as Nonni; and Davíð Stefánsson, one of the most famous poets of the 20th century. Even if you’re not familiar with their work, their homes are still worth visiting for their historical value.

AKUREYRI ART MUSEUM & THE ART STREET

The street leading down from Akureyri church is colloquially known as Listagilið (Art Street) in Akureyri. It’s home to several artist workshops and studios and the impressive Akureyri Art Museum. The buildings that line the street used to house factories and industrial operations but have since been taken over by local artists and Akureyri Art Museum. Their work continues to enrich the vibrant cultural scene of Akureyri.

The Museum Church

The largest artefact in the collection of the Akureyri Museum is the black-tarred church that stands in the museum garden. Initially built in 1846, the church was moved from Svalbarð on the opposite side of Eyjafjörður fjord. Unlike the architecturally impressive Akureyri church, this simple wooden church with a lone white cross indicating that it is a house of worship is an excellent example of a rural 19th-century church.

Hof Cultural Centre

The conference centre and concert hall is a spectacular landmark. Its halls host everything from parties and exhibitions to theatrical events, concerts, meetings, and receptions. It’s located only minutes away from the town centre, easily spotted due to its unique circular architecture. Inside Hof, you can find Icelandic design and gifts at Kista and chat with a local at the town’s tourist information centre.