Akureyri City Guide

Local dishes include lamb, fish, skyr, and pastries. Good international variety and some vegetarian/vegan options. Limited late-night food outside weekends.

Quiet nightlife with bars and pubs mostly active on weekends. Friendly atmosphere.

Good coffee scene with specialty cafes. Coffee is a popular social drink.

Tipping is not expected and usually not done. Service charge included in prices.

SIM cards from Síminn, Vodafone, and Nova are sold at airport, convenience stores, and mobile shops. eSIMs are available. ID required for registration.

City is clean with efficient waste and recycling systems.

Limited 24/7 services. Some convenience stores open late; pharmacies and clinics mostly close early.

Supermarkets like Bónus, Krónan, and Nettó offer international products. Stores open 9-10 AM to 6-9 PM, with limited Sunday hours.

Card payments work almost everywhere. Cash is rarely needed.

ATMs are common, mainly at banks and larger stores. Watch for fees from your home bank on withdrawals.

Local schools teach in Icelandic. No dedicated international school but foreign students can be accepted.

Community is small and informal, with few meetups. Cafés and public spaces offer good Wi-Fi.

Botanical garden and parks along fjord offer green space and trails suitable for running.

Safe, scenic running routes by fjord and garden, with local clubs and an annual marathon.

Several gyms including a university gym and crossfit.

Tennis courts at sports complexes with booking possible; equipment rental limited.

Padel courts are rare to non-existent.

Several studios offer various styles, drop-in classes, and English instruction.

Small martial arts presence, mainly boxing and combat fitness. English likely in some classes.

Hlíðarfjall ski resort is 5 km away, open Dec-April, with slopes for all levels and rentals.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing available in summer with rentals and guided tours.

Surfing is not common due to cold fjord waters.

Diving in nearby fjord and geothermal sites; best visibility at Silfra nearby; mix of beginner and advanced sites.

Public hospital and clinics with English-speaking staff. High-quality public healthcare. Pharmacies open during the day with limited weekends.

Tap water is safe and high quality.

Playgrounds, family-friendly cafés, and attractions like botanical garden and swimming pool make it good for families.

Very accepting city with legal protections and local Pride events. Safe and inclusive.

Generally pet-friendly but strict import rules. Some pet-friendly lodgings; vet clinics available.