places to visit east coast iceland

The Best Things to do in East Iceland (2024 Guide)

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Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION

Many people experience East Iceland quite quickly while driving the epic Ring Road or as passengers on multi-day tours. While East Iceland may not initially seem as compelling as the jaw-dropping waterfalls and glaciers of South Iceland or the unparalleled whale-watching opportunities of the North, its attractions can absolutely hold their own!

In fact, the list of things to do in East Iceland is extensive, featuring stunning basalt columns, majestic waterfalls (including one of the tallest in the country), picturesque towns, and some of the most magical geothermal pools in the country. While most people only spend a day or two in East Iceland, I highly recommend taking a more leisurely pace if you can.

This post begins with some general information, including driving tips and East Iceland weather considerations. However, if you are in a hurry, you can jump straight to list of East Iceland attractions .

Affiliate Disclosure: This post on attractions in the East of Iceland may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. All opinions are entirely my own.

GETTING AROUND

While East Iceland’s towns are technically linked by a bus system, it is much easier to visit the attractions by car. Most visitors embarking on a road trip in Iceland rent a car from Keflavik International Airport.

Note: I alway use the local company Lava Car Rental. Learn more in my guide to renting a car in Iceland .)

SAVE MONEY!

Get free 4G Hotspot WiFi (1500 ISK/day value) from Lava Car Rental by using TARAWIFI at checkout. Tick the box for “4G WiFi” when selecting your additional features and the fee will be removed upon checkout.

Alternatively, there is a small airport in the town of Egilsstaðir (central East Iceland) with daily flights from Reykjavik Domestic Airport. This airport has car rentals available, so if you are limited on time and exclusively want to visit the east and north of the country, this could be a convenient solution.

The scenic East fjords Iceland route is also very popular in the summer months for both cyclists and motorcyclists.

See more about getting around East Iceland at Visit Austurland .

Funny: I couldn’t help but notice that the Visit Austurland (East Iceland) website even recommends hitchhiking as a way of getting around. As Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world, it is not uncommon to accept a ride from a stranger. (Even I have done it in Iceland, which is certainly not something I would do at home!)

EAST FJORD ICELAND DRIVING TIPS

There are quite a few unique things to know about driving in Iceland, which I cover in the linked guide above. Specific to driving in the east, however, I’d like to mention a couple of key points.

• If you stick to the paved main roads (Route 1) and are driving in the summer months, you should be fine with just a regular vehicle. A 4×4 is really only necessary if you plan on traveling on Iceland’s rugged F-Roads or visiting the remote Westfjords.
• It is important to always keep your fuel topped up while driving the East Fjords as the towns are quite spread apart in this region. In the small towns and villages of East Iceland, gas stations double as community hubs, with a store and, oftentimes, a very decent cafe or restaurant.
• While driving, always keep an eye out for animals. Sheep often graze near roadsides and sometimes wander onto the road.

A FERRY TO EAST ICELAND

Perhaps the most interesting thing I discovered while touring East Iceland is that there is a passenger and car ferry that runs between Denmark, the Faroe Islands, and the town of Seyðisfjörður in East Iceland. Unfortunately, there is no car rental location in this tiny Icelandic town (population 600). To get a rental car, you would need to take a bus to Egilsstaðir. Learn more about the Iceland to Denmark ferry route.

WEATHER IN EAST ICELAND

Summers are generally mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), providing pleasant conditions for exploring the fjords and hiking trails.

Winters can be harsh, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, and snowfall is common, especially in the mountainous areas. The coastal regions tend to be windier and wetter, while the inland valleys may experience more stable weather.

I wanted to share with you the photo below from our Eastern Fjords summer drive in August. This is what the roads looked like 90% of the time, with just the odd light shower. Regardless of the season, however, it’s always wise to be prepared for sudden changes in weather, as Iceland’s climate can be unpredictable.

Note:  Personally, as a tourist, I would not plan a self-driving road trip of East Iceland or the Ring Road in the winter. The conditions are just too unpredictable. If this is really something you want to do, I recommend taking a tour with an experienced driver.

Please see my photo below from a road trip along the South Coast of Iceland in February. (And the South Coast roads receive more traffic and are quite well-maintained in comparison to those in the east, north, and west.)

ICELAND EAST ATTRACTIONS MAP

I love a visual! While I have detailed all my favorite places to visit in the East Iceland things to do section below, for your convenience, I have also plotted them on this East Iceland Attractions Map Please feel free to click on the image or the link above for the interactive version.

Note: On this map, I have included the Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, and the town of Höfn, which is just east of those attractions, even though they are all technically part of South Iceland. The reason I have done this is because very few South Iceland travel itineraries include Höfn, despite it being the closest town to those glacier attractions and potentially a good place to spend the night. (The closest town to the west is Vík, which is more than a two-hour drive away.)

BEST THINGS TO DO IN EAST ICELAND

If you are wondering what to do in East Iceland, fear not. In this section, you will find more than enough incredible places to fill up your East Iceland itinerary.

In a separate post I have on self driving the Iceland Ring Road , I recommend taking a counter-clockwise route. For this reason, I have arranged the following East Iceland attractions in that order – starting from South East Iceland and working up to North East Iceland.

Most of the attractions in the eastern region of Iceland are along Route 1 (also known as the Ring Road that circumnavigates the country). If not, they are just a short distance from it.

So, without further ado, here we go!

EXPLORE HÖFN

This charming town is situated on a narrow peninsula in Southeast Iceland, offering beautiful views of Vatnajökull National Park and showcasing a harbor filled with colorful boats. Höfn is located just one hour east by car from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, and the staging area for many Vatnajökull Glacier tours.

Höfn can make sense for an overnight stay either before or after an exciting day enjoying these glacial attractions, as it is the closest town by proximity. Explore hotels and vacation rentals in Höfn with Booking.com .

Note: There are a smattering of hotels about 30 minutes west Jokulsarlon Lagoon, such as the Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon , but these properties are quite isolated (not in towns).

EASTERN FJORDS ICELAND

I cannot write about things to see in East Iceland without mentioning the spectacular fjord views. When I think back on our time in this region, the incredible vistas around every corner or on the far side of every tunnel are what first come to mind.

Keep that camera at the ready, especially for the Southeast Iceland coastal section from Höfn to Breiðdalsvík. The drive is absolutely stunning!

STOKKSNES AND VESTRAHORN

Located on the southeastern coast of Iceland, is a stunning and dramatic headland known for its black sand beaches, rugged mountains, and striking vistas.

The area is dominated by the Vestrahorn Mountain , famous for its jagged peaks that rise sharply from the sea, creating an iconic silhouette.

Note: Part of the reason I urge you not to rush through the east coast of Iceland is because I didn’t have as much time here as I wanted. As an amateur photographer, I really wanted to capture the perfect photo of the magnificent jagged peaks of Vestrahorn. Alas, that’s not the photo I got. The top of the mountain is totally obscured by the clouds!

UNIQUE ATTRACTION ALERT: Right at the parking lot for Stokksnes, there is a very unusual Viking Village . This village was built as a movie set. You should come for the beach and the Vestrahorn views, but if this piques your interest, at 1000 ISK (tickets bought at the café), it is pretty inexpensive by Icelandic standards.

Traveling further east, you’ll reach Djúpivogur , a small fishing village known for its rich birdlife and arts community. The village is part of the Cittaslow movement, which promotes a slow-paced, high-quality life.

In town you will find the outdoor art installation Eggin í Gleðivík (Eggs at Merry Bay) by renowned Icelandic artist Sigurður Guðmundsson – consisting of 34 large granite eggs, representing the bird species that nest in the area.

In the past, you could join a boat tour from Djúpivogur to Papey Island just offshore, home to thousands of puffins and other seabirds. I do not believe such tours are available at this time, but if I learn of one, I will share it here.

STODVARFJORDUR

Continuing east, you’ll arrive in the village of Stöðvarfjörður , known for its artistic community and a stunning fjord backdrop.

Many East Coast Iceland visitors make a short stop in this town to see Petra’s Stone Collection (an absolute must for geology enthusiasts), which showcases thousands of stones and minerals collected by local legend Petra Sveinsdóttir. The collection is displayed in her former home and garden, offering a unique and personal touch.

Also interesting to see in the area is Saxa , a natural rock formation where the sea waves crash into a crevice, creating a spectacular spouting effect.

SEYDISFJORDUR

Seyðisfjörður is a vibrant town nestled in a fjord and surrounded by mountains. It is a bit out of the way (you have to navigate numerous hairpin turns), but it is well worth the visit to experience its colorful wooden houses, artistic community, and rich cultural heritage.

The town is probably most famous for its Blue Church and Rainbow Road . It also boasts a stunning mountain backdrop, charming hotels, and some delightful restaurants.

Just outside Seyðisfjörður, the Skálanes Nature Reserve offers hiking trails with breathtaking views of the fjord. The area is rich in wildlife, including reindeer, seals, and a variety of birds.

Seyðisfjörður is also home to numerous art galleries and studios. The Skaftfell Center for Visual Art is a notable venue, hosting exhibitions, artist residencies, and cultural events throughout the year.

WHERE TO STAY IN SEYDISFJORDUR

We chose to stay several nights in Seyðisfjörður when we couldn’t find a suitable place in nearby Egilsstaðir. The mountain backdrop of this town reflecting off the lake is truly stunning. Check out the view from our room! (I highly recommend Vid Lonid Guesthouse !)

Two other guesthouses in Seydisfjordur that get great reviews are Hotel Aldan – The Bank and Hotel Aldan – The Old Schoolhouse (sleeps 6). See more options on Booking.com .

Note: Earlier in this post, I mentioned that you can sometimes get great food at gas station restaurants in Iceland. The organic café called The Filling Station inside the gas station in Seyðisfjörður is absolutely one of those places!

EGLISSTADIR

Egilsstaðir is the largest town in East Iceland and makes for the perfect base for exploring the surrounding attractions. The town offers all the amenities you might need, including restaurants, shops, and accommodation options. It also has an airport with daily service from Reykjavik.

Eglisstadir is home to The East Iceland Heritage Museum , offering a comprehensive look at the history and culture of East Iceland. Exhibits include traditional crafts, historical artifacts, and stories of the region’s settlers.

Iceland’s largest forest Hallormsstaðaskógur is located near Egilsstaðir and is ideal for hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. The forest is crisscrossed with well-marked trails, offering a serene escape into nature.

Although we have visited many geothermal pools in Iceland, Vök Baths in Eglisstadir is one of our all-time favorites. It is much more natural than some of the others (no chemicals!) and the location allows you to jump back and forth between the hot pools and the lake.

Note: Peak midday times for Vök Baths do sell out in advance (especially if there is a cruise ship in port). Check availability and pricing on Viator.com .

WHERE TO STAY IN EGLISSTADIR

Despite being a central hub, Egilsstaðir has precious few hotels. These hotels are often fully booked by tour groups during the summer months. That said, if you can score a room at a good Egilsstaðir hotel or guesthouse, grab it—well done!

The two hotels I would recommend in Eglisstadir are Gistihusid Lake Hotel (3★) and Hotel Nott 1001 (4★). See more options, including some charming vacation rentals on Booking.com .

As mentioned earlier, we ended up staying in nearby Seydisfjordur, which we loved, but it did required a little more driving for our day trips in the area.

STUDLAGIL CANYON

Due to the fact that this attraction is slightly off the beaten track (a one-hour drive east of Egilsstaðir), many Iceland Ring Road tours skip it. However, seeing these basalt columns was one of our favorite experiences in East Iceland. I highly recommend the slight detour off the main route if you have the time.

Studlagil Canyon can be viewed in as little as 15 minutes via a staircase on the north side. (Pay parking, restaurant, and washrooms are available here.) However, the better view is from the south side. (This is where you always see the photos from.)

The parking is free on the south side, but you need to walk about 2 km to the lookout. There is a little waterfall along the way, and then it is just a straight, flat path (without any shade).

The photo below shows both the north side staircase (right) and the south side viewpoint (back left). I also want to point out that when you see Stuðlagil Canyon in professional photos, the water often looks turquoise and clear. When we visited, however, it was quite silty. Both the photo above and the photo below were taken in late August, so it just depends on the conditions.

HENGIFOSS AND LITLANESFOSS

Also in the area is Hengifoss . Hengifoss is Iceland’s third tallest waterfall and can be reached via a moderately hard hike that also passes by the equally stunning Litlanesfoss .

The trailhead is about a 30-minute drive from Egilsstaðir. It should be noted that despite the fact that Hengifoss and Stuðlagil Canyon appear quite close on the map, you cannot drive directly between the two; you must return almost to Egilsstaðir.

Most people complete the Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss 5.1k loop trail in 2-3 hours. Proper hiking footwear is advised as the trail can get slippery near the falls. See the route on AllTrails.com .

BORGARFJORDUR EYSTRI

Heading back towards the coast, you will reach Borgarfjörður Eystri , a remote village known for its stunning landscapes and rich folklore. The area is a hiker’s paradise, with numerous trails leading through colorful mountains, luscious valleys, and along rugged coastlines.

There are several popular hikes in the area including Storurd (The Giant Boulders) that takes you to a hidden valley filled with giant boulders, crystal-clear ponds, and lush vegetation.

According to local legend, Álfaborg (Elf Hill) is the home of the elf queen. Visit the hill and the small museum in the village to learn more about Icelandic folklore and the belief in hidden people.

The best spot for puffin watching (late May to mid-August) is Hafnarhólmi , a small island accessible by a short walk from the harbor. Here, you’ll find well-maintained viewing platforms and paths that allow for close encounters with these adorable seabirds.

Note: While we did not stop in this town, I definitely would say that it looks like a great spot for puffin viewing. (Even better than where we have made a detour to see them in South Iceland’s Westman Islands .)

Check out the Borgarfjordur Eystri viewing platform in this YouTube video !

Borgarfjordur Eystri also hosts a music festival each July. This 3-day party sees the population of this little hamlet balloon to close to 1000 people from ~300. Learn more at Braedsland Music Festival or watch this short video of the event by Icelandair .

VOPNAFJORDUR

Just a little further north up the coastline is Vopnafjörður , a town steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty. The local folk museum, Bustarfell, provides a glimpse into traditional Icelandic life with its well-preserved turf houses and artifacts.

The rivers around Vopnafjörður are renowned for their excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for salmon and trout. For those who love hiking, the trails around Krossavíkurfjall mountain provide spectacular vistas and the chance to explore less-traveled paths.

If you want to have a local pool experience, check out Selárlaug Swimming Pool . This pool, with its scenic backdrop, is a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

As you continue, your journey will take you inland and to the west in order to reach Dettifoss , Europe’s most powerful waterfall. This awe-inspiring cascade of water plunges 44 meters into the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon.

While visiting Dettifoss, be sure to also see nearby Selfoss and Hafragilsfoss waterfalls, each offering their own unique perspective of the mighty Jökulsá á Fjöllum river.

MYVATN GEOTHERMAL AREA

Continue west to Lake Mývatn , a geothermal wonderland with a diverse range of interesting features. The surrounding landscape is dotted with volcanic craters, lava fields, and hot springs, creating a unique and otherworldly environment.

Note: I cannot write about this area without making mention of the smell of sulfer. While it is not uncommon to get a waft of sulfer in Iceland, Myvatn is next level! (It may not bother you in the slightest, but I thought you should know.)

Highlights in this area include the Mývatn Nature Baths , often referred to as the Blue Lagoon of the North and the Hverir geothermal area, where you can witness bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles.

Pre-book tickets for Myvatn Nature Baths with GetYourGuide.com .

Also interesting in the area are the Dimmuborgir lava formations, which resemble a collapsed citadel and are the subject of many local legends. For a more strenuous adventure, hike up to the Víti Crater in the Krafla volcanic area, offering breathtaking views into the crater lake and surrounding landscape.

Fans of Game of Thrones , may wish to visit Grjótagjá (a steamy cave with a hot pool inside). While interesting to look at, swimming it not permitted here because the water is scalding hot!

If all your activities make you peckish, Vogafjos Farm Resort has a wonderful farm-to-table restaurant. There is a barn attached to the restaurant where you can visit some of the animals.

The hotel at Vogafos also gets very good reviews if you are looking for a place to stay in the area. Check rates and availability on Booking.com .

As you continue north, make your way to Húsavík , often referred to as the whale-watching capital of Iceland. This charming town on the northern coast is renowned for its excellent whale-watching tours , offering the chance to see humpback whales, minke whales, and even the elusive blue whale.

Another highlight is the picturesque Húsavík Church , a charming wooden structure built in 1907 that showcases Icelandic ecclesiastical architecture.

Lastly, don’t miss the chance to soak in the GeoSea Geothermal Sea Baths , where you can relax in warm, mineral-rich waters while enjoying stunning views of Skjálfandi Bay and the surrounding mountains.

GeoSea is our second favorite geothermal pool in Iceland. Its cliffside location, next to a very accidentally Wes Anderson lighthouse, feels simply out of this world!

See tickets for GeoSea on GetYourGuide.com .

WHERE TO STAY IN HÚSAVÍK

If you wondering where to stay in Husavik, both the Fosshotel Husavik and the Husavik Cape Hotel are very nice.

If you prefer a more intimate, boutique hotel experience, I would recommend Laxhús Guesthouse or Arból Guesthouse .

See more Husavik hotels on Booking.com .

East Iceland offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventurous activities that make it a must-visit destination. From the dramatic fjords and majestic waterfalls to the charming towns and vibrant art scenes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Should you have further questions about this East Iceland itinerary, please feel free to reach out to me via direct message on  Instagram , by  email , or by leaving a comment below. I love hearing from readers.

MORE ON ICELAND

• Self Driving the Iceland Ring Road
• The 10 Best South Coast Iceland Hotels
• A Guide to Iceland’s Westman Islands
• Self Driving the Golden Circle, Iceland
• 20 Things to do in Reykjavik with Kids
• 10 Best Things to do in Iceland in Winter
• 15 Tips for Self Driving Iceland in the Winter

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

14 Best Things To Do In East Iceland

July 14, 2021 //  by  Iceland Trippers

There are so many natural wonders to see and fun things to do in East Iceland . This portion of the Land of Fire and Ice is full of beautiful nature spots and hidden gems worth discovering.

Found clear on the opposite side of the country from the capital city of Reykjavik , eastern Iceland is too far for day-trippers from the city to visit. The only way to see this wild and widely untouched part of Iceland is to drive the Ring Road and take a few days to fully explore the area.

There are cascading waterfalls, deep canyons, small towns, and unique attractions to find in East Iceland. You should not pass up the opportunity to take a deep dive into this region.

You can expect to find fewer crowds here as you stop at each of the sites on this list. If you have the time to spare, make sure you fill your Iceland itinerary with these places to visit in East Iceland.

Get a FREE printable “Hidden Gems In Iceland” E-book by joining our private  Iceland Facebook Group  and share your photos and ask for tips and tricks.

Hike to Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss

We will start this list with some waterfalls since these natural wonders are some of the most loved sites in Iceland. This first hike will hit two awesome waterfalls. Round trip, this hike is three miles and some of it can be difficult, so come prepared.

You will see the first waterfall after trekking for about 1.3 miles. Litlanesfoss flows through some of the largest basalt columns in Iceland and is a beautiful sight to behold.

Keep hiking and you will find Hengifoss, the third largest waterfall in Iceland . This water feature crashes down 420 feet over a cliff streaked with red clay. Because of its location in eastern Iceland, there will be fewer crowds than the waterfalls on the southern coast. The hike might be hard, but it is so worth it to see a couple of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland.

Get Your Breath Taken Away by Gufufoss

Gufufoss is another of the waterfalls in East Iceland. This 39-foot waterfall has a similar look to Skogafoss but there will be way fewer people vying for the perfect photo. The name of this waterfall translates to “Steam Falls” which is an apt name since there tends to be a lot of vapor shrouding it.

The great thing about this waterfall is that it is much more accessible than Hengifoss. You only have to walk a few minutes from the parking lot to see Gufufoss. This is great if you do not have time for a long hike. It is easy to fit Gufufoss into your East Iceland itinerary.

Become Awed by Vestrahorn

Found on the Stokksnes Peninsula , Vestrahorn is one of the most iconic and photogenic mountains in Iceland. Rising above a gorgeous, black sand beach, you could not dream of a moodier or more enticing place for a photoshoot. In spring, the bright, purple lupine flowers Iceland is known for add an element of magic to the scene.

There is a small entrance fee to access the beach, but it is 100% worth it! Come for sunrise or sunset to add even more drama. In the winter, you might be able to glimpse the Northern Lights here as well. When the tide comes in, the water will reflect the mountains and the sky. How incredible is that?!

Find a Viking Village Replica

Included in the fee to visit the beach mentioned above is access to a Viking village replica on the Stokksnes Peninsula. Since it is included in the price, you might as well take some time to check it out. This is one of the most unique things to do in East Iceland and should not be missed.

This Viking village was built in 2010 for a movie that was never produced. Luckily for Iceland travelers, the village is now open to explore in full.

After paying the fee at the Viking Café, take the short walk to the village pass sheep and cute, Icelandic horses. The village is encircled by a fence and is full of wooden buildings covered in grass. After being left to the elements for so many years, you can easily pretend you are in a real, historic Viking village. You are sure to get some epic Instagram photos here!

Take a Photo With the Red Chair Art Installation

This next East Iceland attraction is random and certainly unique! On the Ring Road between Hofn and Egilsstadir, sitting in an otherwise empty landscape, you will come across the Red Chair. This mysterious art installation draws the eye with its bright color and obscure presence.

Pull over to take a picture of yourself sitting on this oversized chair. It is bolted onto a large rock and surrounded by moss. Maybe send a picture of it to your friends back home and see how they react.

With mountains in the distance, you can’t argue that this strange chair is a pretty place to sit. Stopping at the Red Chair on your Ring Road drive will give you the chance to stretch your legs and see a humorous Iceland attraction you will not soon forget.

Photograph Hvalnes Lighthouse

The bright orange color and funky shape of the Hvalnes Lighthouse attract travelers and photographers who visit East Iceland. With a height of 38 feet, this structure stands guard over the beaches of the Hvalnes Nature Reserve . This lighthouse was built in 1954 and is still in operation today.

Though you cannot tour the inside, it is still a great stop on your Ring Road drive since it is close to the road and does not take long to visit. Since its color stands out starkly against the dull landscape, you are sure to snap a few photos of it before moving on to your next destination.

Find Moody Beaches on the Laekjavik Coast

The Laekjavik Coast runs between Hofn and Djupivogur. These black sand beaches are not as popular as others in Iceland, so you will have fewer people blocking your view. Even though the cool beaches are visible from the Ring Road, they remain a hidden gem.

Walk along the beach and take in sights of the rock formations and powerful waves of the ocean. You will even find a cool, rectangular rock that begs to be photographed. Like any beach in Iceland , be cautious of the waves and do not swim. View the water from a distance to stay safe.

Hike the Studlagil Canyon

If you want to see one of the best canyons in Iceland, then you need to go to Studlagil Canyon. Walled on either side by black basalt cliffs and filled will bright blue glacial water, this canyon is jaw-dropping. This hidden gem in East Iceland needs to be added to your itinerary pronto!

If you like feeling like a character on a quest in a fantasy novel, then you will love hiking to Studlagil Canyon. At just under six miles round trip, this hike is not for the light of heart. Most of the trail is not maintained and can be tricky in parts. Wear appropriate shoes and be careful not to slip. Along the way, you will also see the beautiful Studlafoss waterfall.

Soak in the Djupavogskorin Hot Spring

What is a trip to Iceland without a dip in natural hot springs ? The Djupavogskorin Hot Spring in East Iceland is not far from the Ring Road. The spring is about the size of two bathtubs, making this a great spot for a romantic couple’s soak. A hill hides the spring from the road, so you have privacy.

With wonderful views of nature as well as peace and quiet away from large groups, your time at the Djupavogskorin Hot Spring is sure to be memorable. As with any hot springs in Iceland, you are responsible for cleaning up after yourself so the next visitors can enjoy it as well.

Visit the Town of Seydisfjordur

Seydisfjordur is a cute town in East Iceland full of charm and brightly colored buildings. Probably the most photographed building here is the bright blue and white trimmed church . A rainbow painted on the road will lead you to the church where you can take tours in the summer.

Along with the church Seydisfjordur also offers a nearby ski area in the winter and a golf course in the summer. There are also museums and a lighthouse to visit. Plenty of beautiful hikes will lead you to amazing waterfalls and mountain views.

While this fishing village was once a hidden gem, it is gaining more and more popularity because of social media. It is found about half an hour from the Ring Road so you do not have to drive forever to get to Seydisfjordur. There are also plenty of places to stay here if you want to spend a night or two in this adorable east coast city.

Walk Through the Hallormsstadur National Forest

Iceland is not a country known for trees, but there are still some forests to discover if you know where to look. The Hallormsstadur National Forest is the largest forest in Iceland and is found next to Lagarfljot Lake.

Hiking and camping are popular pastimes here. There are eleven marked trails that will lead you among the over eighty species of trees growing in this forest. Compared with the rest of the country, you will have a hard time believing you are still in Iceland as the trees surround you on all sides.

Visit the Hallormsstadur Arboretum where trees have been protected since 1905. There are horses you can rent if you want to ride through the forest. Boat rentals allow you to get out on the lake too.

Discover Mjoifjordur

Mjoifjordur translates to the “Narrow Fjord” and this area is known for its beauty and calm weather. This East Iceland fjord and the small town of the same name found on its shores are worth visiting if you want to travel Iceland off the beaten path.

The town of Mjoifjordur is home to only a handful of people and is accessible for only a few months each year because of snow. If you plan your trip right, you can spend time exploring along this fjord.

Scenic hikes here will bring you to remote waterfalls that you may have all to yourself. If you love lighthouses, you will want to see the Dalatangi Lighthouse which stands out against the landscape because of its bright, orange color.

Another cool and unique thing to find on Mjoifjordur is an old World War II, U.S. Navy shipwreck. Surrounded by moody mountains and water, this rusty ship skeleton is a photographer’s dream. Clearly, this is one of the best east fjords in Iceland.

Enjoy the Magic of Storurd

With vividly blue water and mossy boulders, visiting Storurd will make you feel as if you have stepped into a world of fairies and gnomes. This beautiful valley is an Iceland hidden gem nestled in the Dyrfjoll mountains. The name of this place translates to “Giant Boulders” and these rocks found their way to this valley during the last Ice Age.

If you want to see Storurd for yourself, you have to be ready for quite the hike. Bring your hiking boots and pack plenty of water and snacks because the hike is about five miles round trip over rugged terrain.

The journey is worth the destination, especially since the trek brings you through gorgeous lands. Start the hike at the Vatnskard Service Center.

Spot Puffins at Borgarfjardarhofn

Borgarfjardarhofn is one of the best places in Iceland to find puffins. In the summer, thousands of birds flock here to nest each year. If you are looking for an easy and safe place to watch these magnificent and quirky creatures, then come to this area of East Iceland from mid-April to mid-August.

There are shelters and wooden platforms where you can bird-watch without fear of damaging burrows or falling off the cliffs. These platforms allow you to get a close look at the puffins, but be sure not to disturb these protected birds. Along with puffins, you can catch a glimpse of other bird species, including fulmar, kittiwake, and common eider.

Don’t pass on East Iceland! There are just as many amazing things to do and see here as there are in more touristy areas of the country. You get beautiful waterfalls, small towns, and wonderful hiking trails all with fewer crowds. If you plan on completing the Ring Road, make sure to schedule enough time to see some of these East Iceland attractions. You will not regret it!

East Iceland | Eastfjords

The secluded beauty of east Iceland with its breathtaking fjords and charming fishing villages is only just beginning. The landscape exhibits an extraordinary palette of colors in a contrast of extremes with narrow fjords, jagged peaks, toppling waterfalls, geothermal hotspots, lush forests and endless green valleys where you can truly experience tranquility with nature.

The Eastfjords are home to the reindeer in Iceland. The biggest, and perhaps the only real forest in Iceland. And, moreover, where the Lagarfljotsormurinn the mystical loch ness monster of Iceland lives! 

East Iceland attractions

• Vestrahorn or Stokksnes
• Vatnajokull Glacier
• Egilsstadir
• Seydisfjordur
• Djupivogur 
• Hengifoss waterfall
• Hallormsstadaskogur
• Borgarfjordur Eystri

Vestrahorn mountain range, located at the shores of Stokksnes, has quickly become one of the more popular spots for photographers in Iceland. Its black sand, sparsely distributed vegetation, and stark color contrasts are simply divine when combined into a frame. Furthermore, the location is not far from the popular Ring Road Route. Making it an even easier add-on to the East Iceland bucket list.

During a road trip around the east, there will most commonly be steep mountains with roaming herds of wild reindeer but occasionally you’ll see the enormous Vatnajokull glacier pop up. Glistenings bright in between the dark mountains. This sight is always as welcomed and does not get dull!

The ‘capital’ of the Eastfjords is its biggest town Egilsstadir. The town serves as the central hub with the regional airport, the most diverse shopping options and the main service points. Egilsstaðir stands on the banks of the Lagarfljot river, one of Iceland’s most legendary rivers. Lagarfljót is said to be the home of the notorious Lagarfljótsormur (The Lagarfljót Worm), our very own Loch Ness monster. Sightings have been reported regularly ever since 1345, with the latest being a 2012 video showing the worm swimming in the lake. Stories about the Hidden Folk and trolls are also common to the area, like the story of the ogress of Prestagil whose favorite food was the local priests, and East Iceland is thought to be especially haunted by ghosts.

Seydisfjordur East Iceland

Alongside the town rests, probably the most charming village in Iceland, Seydisfjordur. Known for its adorable blue church and rainbow ‘high-street’. Seydisfjordur was once one of the largest population centers in the country. It has become a bit of an artists’ colony, with an arts festival, LungA, for young people held there every summer. Along with the arts center there’s a technical museum in town and the Dieter Roth Academy is located close by. The world-famous artist lived in Seyðisfjörður towards the end of his life.  

Djúpivogur is Iceland’s first and only Cittaslow town. Cittaslow is part of the slow movement and its goals include improving the quality of life in towns by slowing down its overall pace. Djúpivogur is certainly the perfect place to enjoy this slower pace of life. Located on a peninsula between two deep fjords, Djúpivogur has stunning nature and beautiful wildlife that will help inspire calm and contentment to even the most hectic of big-city dwellers. Just outside of Djúpivogur you’ll find the art installation Eggin í Gleðivík (The Eggs of Merry Bay) by local artist Sigurður Guðmundsson. The installation is a giant replica of the eggs of the 34 kinds of birds that nest in the area.

Nearby, Hallormsstadaskogur is an impressive forest in a country otherwise almost barren of trees. Beyond that lies the wild and wooly natural habitat of Iceland’s reindeer population which can only be found in east Iceland.

The East Fjords are one of the oldest regions in Iceland, which was shaped by glaciers during the Ice Age. Although many are uninhabited, each fjord has its own grandeur. The natural harbors in the fjords led to the development of fishing villages that have still hung on to a degree of old-world charm.

Things to do in East Iceland

• Visit Petra’s Stone Museums
• Go Horseback riding
• Catch your own meal sea angling
• Explore the hiking trails
• Visit the organic farm 
• Hike to Hengifoss waterfall

Local folklore is filled with legends of hidden elves and there are several interesting museums in the region worth visiting including the Wartime Museum and Petra’s Mineral Collection. Steinasafn Petru (Petra’s Minerals)is located in Stodvarfjordur. Its charming collection of rocks and minerals was collected by one woman, Petra, who started collecting rocks as a little girl and as it grew she found new ways to keep her rocks eventually leading to her and her husband buying this house in 1946. Then, she finally had a place to store all her stones. Enjoy a stroll through the garden lovingly looked after by her family after Petra passed away in 2012.

Visiting the Vallanes organic farm is always a treat. Trying all the wonderful produce and seeing step-by-step how it is made and even something, grown. They also have a wonderful restaurant! Find out more about Farms to visit in Iceland.

More on Activities in the Eastfjords

The Wilderness Center is yet another reason to make your way to the east coast. It is the perfect place to break away from the urban hassle and reconnect with nature and the olden days. The center offers a memorable experience. One the one hand tours, exhibitions, as well as a homey restaurant. And, on the other an amazing accommodation option in the rebuilt charming old rooms. A visit truly feels like a trip with a time-machine.

Starting from the Wilderness Center you can walk to some of the best hiking trails in the east and there is no shortage of them! Amazingly scenic ones, doable for all fitness levels. Hiking to Hengifoss waterfall is a favorite of ours for some light trekking and Dyrfjoll for the more advanced. 

The East enjoys some of the sunniest weather in the country and visitors enjoy spending time hiking, horseback riding, sea angling and taking boat rides among the many grassy islands offshore.

For more detailed information about attractions, villages and activities in eastern Iceland be sure to go through our destination guide.

Photo Gallery

The Best East Iceland Itinerary & Top Things to do [2024]

By Gemma Tedaldi | Published: 17th June 2023 | Updated: 7th January 2024

East Iceland is the place to go if you want the coastal scenic drives, beautiful nature reserves and fjords galore. With its numerous natural harbours and seaside villages, the East Fjords in Iceland are also full to the brim with birdlife and typical Icelandic lighthouses, and if you’re lucky a wild reindeer or two!

📍 East Iceland Itinerary – Day 1: Fjarðarheiði, Gufufoss & Seyðisfjörður

📍 East Iceland Itinerary – Day 2: Egilsstaðir, Reyðarfjörður, Djúpivogur & Hvalnes Peninsula

East Iceland Itinerary Map

• The Best East Iceland Itinerary
• Top Things to do in East Iceland Itinerary

East Iceland Itinerary FAQs

Conclusion: the best east iceland itinerary & top things to do, planning your trip use our favourite travel resources below:.

Accommodation: We recommend Booking.com

Rental Car: We recommend Rentalcars.com

Flights: We recommend Kiwi.com

Tours: We recommend Get Your Guide

East Iceland Itinerary – Day 1: Fjarðarheiði, Gufufoss & Seyðisfjörður

Coming from north Iceland, leave Route 1 and head up and over the Fjarðarheiði mountain pass along Route 93. Here is where we saw the main amount of snow during our trip so we can only imagine what it is like in the depths of winter to try and cross!

On the way down Route 93 be sure to stop at an unassuming layby with a path to Gufufoss . This waterfall has to be one of our favourites from the trip as it is so unknown yet so beautiful to get to.

Continuing down Route 93 you eventually reach the town of Seyðisfjörður , a colourful artist’s delight of a place with just the mountains and fjord accompanying it. Be sure to get out on foot and wander through this wonderful place to the Seyðisfjarðarkirkja along the rainbow road, as well as stopping by the only pizzeria we saw in Iceland.

Spend the night in Hafaldan Old Hospital Hostel, before retracing your steps over the mountain pass again tomorrow.

East Iceland Itinerary – Day 2: Egilsstaðir, Reyðarfjörður, Djúpivogur & Hvalnes Peninsula

From Route 93, take Route 92 south out of Egilsstaðir to join up with Route 1 again before driving through the East Fjords and out along the coast taking in Reyðarfjörður and Djúpivogur and everything in between.

Stop for fresh fish and chips at Djúpivogur enjoying the sculptures throughout the town before continuing along Route 1 to Hvalnes Peninsula and the Nature Reserve Beach . This vast black pebble beach is surrounded by towering mountains and often has a swan or two, so makes a wonderful stop to wander through pure Icelandic nature .

Continuing an hour down the road you will reach Vatnajökull National Park and your home for the night, Vagnsstaðir HI Hostel.

From here you can continue with our South Iceland Itinerary .

Top Things to do in East Iceland

Whilst in Iceland Matt and I were travelling around the Route 1 Ring Road, with an odd detour here and there, and found that the East of Iceland is truly incredible. There are many major attractions and less well-known things to see in this region, but here are our top places you must visit, see and stay at:

There are 3 main towns in the east of Iceland, Egilsstaðir, Seyðisfjörður and Fjarðabyggð. Route 1 goes directly through Egilsstaðir with Seyðisfjörður and Fjarðabyggð only short drives off the route. We visited Egilsstaðir and Seyðisfjörður amongst numerous other places along the east coast, but there are the ones you just have to see…

1. Seyðisfjörður

Seyðisfjörður has to be Iceland’s most artistic and colourful town with its pretty blue church, Seyðisfjarðarkirkja, at the end of a rainbow-painted road and beautifully decorated homes, murals and sculptures dotted throughout the town and all along the harbour front. It is a far cry from the snowy roads above!

2. Reyðarfjörður

At the end of the longest and widest of all the east fjords, Reyðarfjörður is one of the largest towns in the region yet still only has a mere 1100 people living there! It is one of the oldest areas, geologically, through the whole of Iceland and has numerous walking routes, so is a haven for hikers and the geology interested. 

From Reyðarfjörður the driving just begins to get more scenic, more coastal and more incredible! Every turn in the road leaves you wanting more, with open grassy scenery and a few wild reindeer thrown in for good measure!

3. Djúpivogur

Djúpivogur is the southernmost town in the East Fjords, with boat links to the island of Papey, famous for its puffins. It has a quaint little harbour at the centre of the town, where you can watch the local seabirds frolicking about before heading off around the coast. Further through the town is a sculpture called Eggin í Gledivík, which consists of 34 giant eggs, one for each seabird species of the area, with the largest egg created for the official bird of Djúpivogur the red-throated diver.

4. Gufafoss

One worth stopping at is Gufafoss, ‘Gufa’ meaning steam in Icelandic, which is one of 25 official waterfalls that flow along the River Fjarðará in the area. There are countless more cascading over the cliff faces higher up but if you counted them all you’d be there for years!

5. Hvalnes Nature Reserve

Just before the ring road starts heading north, is Hvalnes Peninsula, or ‘Whale Peninsula’, with its large beach, three horn mountains and of course a lighthouse. In the middle of the peninsula sits Hvalnes nature reserve, a vast (and extremely windy!), black pebble beach. It is often teeming with whooper swans, which can be seen all over the country in April. Not only can you enjoy the crashing waves on the beach with next to no one but you also get a great view over the spiky horn mountains Vestrahorn, Brunnhorn and Eystrahorn.

6. Vatnajökull

Continuing further down Route 1 you reach the famous Vatnajökull National Park. Even driving along you get a real sense of how much life is within the park, with fields full to the brim with barnacle and greylag geese and with oystercatchers and common redshanks darting across the sky left right and centre!

Where to stay for your East Iceland itinerary

With 4 HI Hostels located in East Iceland, you can have your pick of places to stay, however, we opted for Seyðisfjörður Hafaldan HI Hostel, a hostel set within an old hospital building, complete with the old windows from the blue church in the village. If you want to book any of these hostels head to Hostelworld   for the best rates.

Seyðisfjörður Old Hospital HI Hostel – The historic hostel at the artistic town of the fjörds

Open 1st April – 15th October

Situated on Route 93

Parking on site

Washing machine access

Situated in an old hospital with the new hospital next door

Massive modern kitchen and dining area

Beautiful timber clad walls

Fancy extending your trip to East Iceland and visiting some of the other regions to see what they have to offer? Check out our posts on North Iceland , South Iceland , and West Iceland .

Is it worth going to East Iceland?

If you thought the fjords in North Iceland were delightful then you are in for a treat in East Iceland! The East Fjords in East Iceland are quite possibly the most beautiful place in all of Iceland. With numerous walking routes and some of the oldest landscapes in the whole of Iceland, this is the land that the seabirds call home.

Where are the East Fjords?

The East Fjords are located on the eastern coast of Iceland. They span a vast area from the southeast corner of Iceland, near the town of Höfn, to the north of the island, close to the town of Egilsstaðir. The region is known for its rugged and picturesque landscapes, with numerous fjords, mountains, and coastal cliffs.

How to get to East Iceland / How to get around East Iceland

The best way to get around and in fact to get to East Iceland is by renting a car and driving. There is no international airport in the region of East Iceland, so you are either coming from a stopover in Keflavík Airport or Akureyri Airport or, like most people, driving.

We were of course driving, (you can check out our whole route in our 7 days exploring Iceland’s Ring Road ), and boy did it make the trip through the area even more breathtaking. We stopped so many times just to take in the view and watch a reindeer or two.

Renting a car in East Iceland

Assuming, as per the above, you are driving to East Iceland then be sure to check out Rentalcars.com for the best vehicle rental deals for your trip.

Where to eat in East Iceland

East Iceland may be full of fjords and beautiful landscapes but it also has some great places to stop by for a bite to eat. Be sure to check out these places and try what they have to offer:

📍 Skaftfell Bistro in Seyðisfjörður for a local brew and some of the best pizzas in Iceland.

📍 Sesam Braudhus in Reyðarfjörður for bagels good enough for breakfast, brunch or lunch!

📍 Vid Voginn in Djúpivogur for fish and chips overlooking the harbour.

When is the best time to visit East Iceland?

Figuring out the best time for a trip to East Iceland depends on your specific desires. If you’re looking to embark on thrilling hikes and witness the magical Midnight Sun, visit between June and August. On the other hand, if your goal is to witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights, then the best time to visit East Iceland is during the winter months, from October through to March.

For those interested in an adventurous road trip, (like we were!), it’s advisable to plan your visit during a shoulder season, which falls between the peak of summer and the onset of winter, therefore avoiding most of the tourists and the snow.

What is the most beautiful fjord in East Iceland?

Seyðisfjörður is often talked about as being the most beautiful fjord in East Iceland, and it is easy to see why with its waterfalls, colourful buildings and arty cultural scene. However there are so many fjords in East Iceland, and each one is as beautiful as the last.

What is the best town to stay at in East Iceland?

The main towns in the East Fjords include Egilsstaðir, Seyðisfjörður, Neskaupstaður, and Djúpivogur, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. We would recommend staying in Seyðisfjörður or Djúpivogur in you are visiting East Iceland as they both have plenty of accommodation options and are just breathtakingly beautiful.

East Iceland Tours

So there is our guide to the best East Iceland itinerary and top things to do in East Iceland. Hopefully, that gives you a taste of what East Iceland has to offer, so go book your own trip and make memories to last a lifetime!

Planning your own trip to East Iceland? Make sure you check out our Travelling Tedaldi Amazon Store Travel Guides for all your guidebooks and maps. (We’ve done the hard work for you and linked all the things we used to plan our trip!)

Gemma is the owner and author of The Travelling Tedaldi, a travel blog helping travellers to discover the best road trips and travel itineraries throughout the UK and Europe. When she isn’t writing about her favourite travel destinations, she can often be found out exploring local hikes or planning future trips.

The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in East Iceland

• Last Updated: May 21, 2024
• Norbert Zohó

The eastern region of Iceland has received little attention; being too far from the capital is a common observation. It’s a mistake because East Iceland has an incredibly varied landscape, featuring stunning coastlines and beautiful little fjord-side villages.

Our previous article covered all the useful information about East Iceland, including its unique weather characteristics, geology, infrastructure, recommended activities, and more. The following blog post lists the most awe-inspiring attractions we recommend you visit. Read on to learn more about both well-known and hidden gems of East Iceland!

Regions in East Iceland

Vatnajökull glacier, jökulsarlon and fjallsarlon glacier lagoons, the diamond beach, skaftafell nature reserve, eystrahorn and the vestrahorn mountains, the viking village, petra’s stone collection in stöðvarfjörður, seyðisfjörður, borgarfjörður eystri, dyrfjöll (“door mountain”) area and stórurð, egilsstadir town, stuðlagil canyon, hallormsstadaskogur forest, hengifoss and litlenasfoss waterfalls, askja crater and víti crater lake, herdubreid mountain, laugarvellir hot natural waterfall.

East Iceland is a large region that is best divided into smaller sections:

Southeast Iceland: The Vatnajokull Region

The eastfjords, the lagarfljót area, the eastern highlands.

Vatnajokull is located in the Central Highlands, stretching to the south and east, the majority in the south. However, the area from Skaftafell to Hofn and the coastline below the Vatnajokull glacier officially belongs to East Iceland.

Vatnajökull National Park covers 14% of the total land area of Iceland. In recent years, it has become a UNESCO World Heritage site. Moreover, there are plans to extend the park into the whole of the Highland region. Once that is done, it will cover 30% of Iceland, thereby becoming one of the largest national parks in the entire world.

Vatnajökull Glacier, 8100 km2 (3127.4 sq. mi.) in land area, is the largest glacier mass in Europe and one of the most significant ice caps outside the two polar regions. If you want to think of it in land terms, it is three times the size of Luxembourg. The tallest mountain in Iceland, Hvannadalshnúkur, also lies beneath the ice. It is 2110 m (6922.5 ft.) high. Other mountain peaks, active volcanoes, subterranean lakes, craggy valleys, and crevasses are common features throughout the park.

You can see many of the 30 outlet glaciers that Vatnajökull sources just driving road 1 on the southeast, making fascinating settings for a perfect road trip. Expect to see thundering rivers, glistening glacial lagoons, cascading waterfalls, and many ice caves among all the natural wonders this region offers.

When glacier tongues reach the lowland, glacial lagoons are formed. Glaciers slowly melt and when they do, the ice retreats, leaving water to fill the depressions, hence the lakes. Large pieces of ice can break from a glacier, leaving ice floating in the lakes, a great opportunity for a photograph of something you will rarely see elsewhere. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most popular destinations, together with another glacial lagoon, Fjallsárlón, is a short drive away, only 10 minutes.

Diamond Beach is close to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. The beach takes its name from the dazzling icebergs glinting in the sunshine, rather like diamonds: pieces of the icebergs that land here from the lagoon. The contrast of the glistening ice against the black sands is absolutely breathtaking.

Numerous seals bask along the shore and the beach is a prime viewing spot for graceful orcas. It’s a fabulous destination for both landscape photographers and lovers of wildlife.

Skaftafell was formerly a stand-alone national park before combining with Vatnajökul National Park. It is a very popular destination for hiking, with several hiking trails to choose from. There is something for everyone here. Trails vary in both difficulty and length. In all cases, walkers can expect stunning views over the glacier, with birch forest and barren river valleys throughout the trails.

The outlet glaciers from Vatnajokull are also great places for the adventurous. Hiking, caving, and climbing are all on offer, with guides a very important element in any of these activities. It is possible to do all these activities at any time of the year, although winter might provide a real challenge. Skaftafell is the most popular tour starting point, although Hofn is also an option.

Stokknes Peninsula

The Hvalnes peninsula is east of Höfn, no more than a 20 minutes drive from the town. You will find a lovely bay surrounded by impressive mountains. The beach comprises black volcanic pebbles and impressive sand dunes stretching for a few kilometers. On a sunny day, you will see the mountains’ image in the water so have your camera ready. If you are lucky, you may catch the reflections of the Northern Lights.

Stokksnes is often regarded as the most scenic place in the whole of Iceland. None of these mountains are above 800 meters (2600 feet), yet there is more to a setting than height.

While the number of tourists visiting the peninsula is relatively low and the infrastructure for tourism is limited, it has much to offer. It is a paradise for photographers; think midnight sun, Northern Lights, and usual daytime shots.

Stokksnes Beach is private, although you will be allowed access if you pay a small fee. The owner uses the fees to help maintain the roads to and from the beach. A small cafe offers refreshments, which is where you pay your fee.

The Viking Village was originally created as a set for a movie in 2010. The film set was supposed to be used for a movie produced by Universal Studios but the filming was never finished. This unique location is located on the Stokksnes peninsula: upon passing by the Viking Café you will be able to spot the fake settlement in the distance.

The farmer’s horses graze nearby on the fields beneath the shadow of the mountain, adding extra authenticity to the surroundings. After entering the village walls, you are permitted to roam around the site at will. This offers the unique opportunity to observe the immaculate detail that goes into the creation of a film set.

You will find the Eastfjords region along the coastline from Berufjörður in the south to Borgarfjörður Eystri in the north. The dramatic shorelines are the main feature, with narrow fjords and small fishing villages within steep valleys.

All of the fjords and villages contain the letters “fjörður,” Icelandic for fjord. Each has a rich culture with art and music as part of life. Examples of the names you will find when you research this area or pay a visit are Seyðisfjörður, Fáskrúðsfjörður, and Borgarfjörður.

In the summer, Eastfjords is the hub for art and music. Art festivals continue to spring up in the area. Jóhannes Sveinsson Kjarval is one of Iceland’s most prominent artists and he hails from Borgarfjörður Eystri. A museum that celebrates his life is now there, a place where many of his most famous creations were produced.

Such is the appeal of this region, its remoteness and setting; it regularly features in movies and TV shows as well as advertisements. Examples of film and TV include “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” and two Icelandic crime series “Trapped”, and “Stardust”.

Ljósbjörg Petra María, born in a small village called Stöðvarfjörður, amassed a collection of stones starting when she was just seven years old and hasn’t stopped collecting them until her death. They are on display for visitors, a chance to see a huge variety in one place. In many ways, the collection is unique and certainly beautiful. She was fascinated by the natural world, and this fascination has expressed itself in what you can see in just an ordinary house in the village.

Effectively, her many thousands of rocks form a museum, covering the inside of her house and its backyard. Petra died in 2012 at the age of 89, but her heritage is well worth visiting. In the summertime, her home also incorporates a small cafe selling simple refreshments to tourists and visitors in the summer months.

Seyðisfjörður sits at the head of the fjord of the same name. It is just a small town of fewer than 700 inhabitants, a lovely place with a colorful high street and an attractive blue church. The immediate vicinity includes mountains and many stunning waterfalls. The town relies on tourism, mainly in the summer months, and fishing. However, tourism has been increasing in recent years in Iceland, and the revenue it creates has been most welcome to the national economy.

The appeal of Seyðisfjörður has been enhanced because of the quirky style evident in the painted houses and because of the LUNGA festival. This annual event features the work of local artists. Indeed, you can see the best of all Icelandic artists if you pay a visit. This is one of the most popular such festivals in the country. Plenty of locals attend to enjoy the exhibitions and art workshops. In addition, there are fashion shows and concerts which tourists and locals enjoy.

It is fairly easy for overseas visitors to reach Seyðisfjörður because there are regular ferries to Scandinavia. As a result, plenty of tourists begin their holiday in Iceland in this small town.

Only 130 people live in Borgarfjörður Eystri, a little town whose primary activity is fishing. However, the hiking trails that start here have increased tourist activity, both from Icelanders from other parts of the country and overseas visitors keen on hiking.

The setting is a town surrounded by mountains, rhyolite ones to the south and basalt ones to the north. The area is one of the best places in Iceland for watching puffins: in the nesting season, some 10,000 pairs of puffins raise their chicks.

Access to the nesting area is via boardwalks at Hafnarholmi Marina. Still, you cannot get too close, thereby disturbing the birds. The nesting season starts in May and continues to August when the puffins begin to disperse, often heading out to sea to fish.

Borgarfjörður Eystri is also known for its legends. It is said that the elf queen lives here in a large rocky outcrop on the outskirts of the town. Álfaborg is its name, translated into elf rock or elf castle. Locals tell the story of the elf queen to visitors, advising them to head to the castle rock outcrop, even for a short time. If they pay their respects, the elf queen will bestow good luck and fortune on them.

Dyrfjöll is part of a large mountain range close to the Borgarfjörður Eystri. This stunning mountain range is something you must see as you travel within East Iceland. The Dyrfjöll stands out because of its unique shape, and you will understand this if you travel around the island and see the other mountains on view.

Steep vertical walls feature within the mountain ranges. The result is a shape similar to a conifer tree, tall and pointed. You may be lost for words when you see such beauty but don’t lose your camera because your photos will likely stun your friends when you return home.

The name of the mountains comes from the Icelandic word for “door.” dyr. That is because of the large gap you will see. The highest peak is 1,136 meters (3,727 feet) incidentally. These are volcanic mountains formed in two main silicic phases of activity. The result is a whole series of calderas visible throughout the volcanic field.

Stórurð, below Dyrfjöll, is certainly one of East Iceland’s special places. You will see plenty of big tuff boulders, meadows, and beautiful blue ponds. It is a challenge to hike in Dyrfjöll unless you are experienced, yet the experience is very rewarding.

The biggest lake in East Iceland is called Lagarfljót. Its location is inland, far from the coast, measuring 5 km (3.2 miles) long and 2.5 km (1.6 mi.) wide, and 112 meters (367 ft.) deep.

Local legend says that a serpent called Lagarfljótsormurinn lives in the deep. A video taken in 2012 claims to have captured the serpent on film. The video went viral on youtube, and you can judge its accuracy for yourself by going to this link:

The first sightings of the Lagarfjlót serpent were in the middle of the 14th Century. Word of mouth carried those stories, and others, down through the ages. Descriptions of these sightings vary from describing the creatures as a snake, a giant seal, a dragon, or a giant worm.

New photos and videos come out regularly. They each show a strange form on the surface of the lake. Several of these sightings claim that this is indeed the serpent, and many more have been proven to be just logs, currents, the wind, or slabs of ice. However, as if to keep the story of the serpent going, there are some sightings that even experts can’t explain.

Lagarfljót is close to Egilsstaðir, the east’s capital, so if you visit the region, you are certain to see the lake. Around 2500 people live in Egilsstaðir, the largest settlement in the area. As a result, it is also the commercial hub of the region. You can find lovely accommodation in the town, plenty of it being on the shores of the lake. You do not have to travel by road to get here; there are daily domestic flights from Reykjavík to Egilsstaðir.

Another natural attraction close to Egilsstadir is Stuðlagil Canyon. It provides stunning images regularly appearing on social media and in promotional material for East Iceland. Basalt columns stand on the edge of the blue water, an absolutely beautiful setting!

The canyon has been hidden because it is underwater. It forms part of a larger canyon, Jökla’s canyon in Jökuldalur valley Glacier’s Valley is its more popularly used name Kárahnjúkavirkjun, a large hydroelectric plant sits on the river. The result is a significant reduction in the flow of the river, and this has led to the hidden canyon being increasingly revealed as the water level drops.

If you want to see nature’s perfection, Stuðlagil is a fine example because every feature in the setting is wonderful, arguably as good as it gets. There is more to this area than its setting. There are plenty of opportunities for an adrenaline rush when you visit if you are adventurous.

After a period of significant rain, the waters that you see will likely turn brown. That is because they will have gathered a great deal of silt from the bottom. It is not advisable to go into the canyon at such times because the water level and the speed of the current can change.

East Iceland’s biggest sauna and spa are Vök Baths on the shores of Lake Urriðavatn. The Baths are very popular with locals and foreign visitors alike. An open bath is found on the shoreline together with two huge pools floating on the lake itself.

As if these pools were not enough, there is also a pool bar at one of the pools and a tea bar where you can sample tisane tea using local ingredients. You will find everything you need to enjoy the day; showers, changing rooms, rental swimsuits if needed and a receptionist answering queries.

There are not a whole load of trees in Iceland. As more and more settlements were built in Iceland, more and more trees were cut down for housing without there being a plan to plant new ones. Add to that the fishing industry requiring boats and even more timber was needed. Although it is only a guess, it is thought that significant tree cover had disappeared within a century of the island being settled.

Soil erosion followed and that merely added to the problem. The result is that visitors are likely to see vast areas of volcanic rock, largely bare. However, Hallormsstaðaskógur, a birchwood forest, got government protection in 1905. It was the first time the government had given protection to a forest., covering 740 km2 (286 sq. miles). There are 85 different species in the forest, some being native ones. The vast majority however have been introduced from elsewhere in the world.

There is something really special about waterfalls, and there are several great examples in Iceland. Hengifoss is the third-highest waterfall in Iceland, with a 128-meter (420 feet) drop. It stands out from others because of the black and red basalt rock wall behind the cascading water. The red color within the rock wall results from the clay formed between the basaltic strata. The layers of clay are called “Paleosols” by soil scientists.

If you travel by car, you will have a 2.5 kilometer (1.6 mile) hike after parking your car. You must therefore go properly equipped with warm clothing and comfortable footwear, the latter every time, the former depending on the season. It will take you around an hour to complete the uphill hike. You should plan accordingly because you will need time once you arrive to really appreciate the setting in front of your eyes. Hengifoss should definitely be on your list of things to see in Iceland.

A much smaller waterfall is near Hengifoss just 35 meters (115 feet) high. Litlanesfoss is its name, but it is often called Stuðlabergsfoss instead. The distinctive feature of this waterfall is the hexagonal basalt columns surrounding it. If you take a hike along the Hengifossá River, you will see both of them as you walk.

The Icelandic Highlands are the interior of the islands. Geographers describe such regions as tundra. This wilderness covering the majority of Iceland is entirely uninhabited and it is where you will find many of the island’s natural highlights. Impressive, yes, and certainly very inaccessible. The eastern section of the Highlands is where you will find some of the best volcanoes and mountains in Iceland: Askja, Snaefell, and Herdubreid.

Askja is a caldera measuring 50 km3 (31 cu. miles) within the Dyngufjöll mountains. Askja dates back to a huge eruption towards the end of the Ice Age. Within the caldera, there are a few craters and volcanoes. Viti, in Icelandic meaning “hell”, is the most famous, a crater filled with water whose constant temperature remains at about 30°C (86ºF). The surroundings are much like moonscapes, something that doesn’t seemingly belong in this world.

This mountain is close to Askja, amid the largest lava field in Iceland, Odadahraun. At 1682 meters (5518 feet.), Herdubreid is regularly referred to as the “queen of Icelandic mountains.” A poll in 2002 suggested it should be the national mountain of Iceland, and that title has stuck.

In years gone by, many criminals and others shunned by society used to gather at the foot of the mountain near an oasis.

If you head to the northeast within the Central Highlands, you will get to Laugarvellir, comprising a geothermal pool, waterfall, and valley. This is a remote region, but your reward is the chance for a long soak in a pool whose temperature range is between 39C and 41C. It would be best to put a finger in to test the heat before jumping in.

The geothermal pool is at a fairly high altitude within the Central Highlands. That altitude is 600 meters, with the lush vegetation surrounding the pool partly due to the altitude. Few natural settings are more beautiful than here.

You can only expect to reach here in summer, and then only with a 4×4, that can navigate the gravel roads.

Our article has covered the most beautiful sites to visit in East Iceland. In this separate article , you can read useful information, interesting facts, and exciting activities regarding East Iceland. Contact us for your tailor-made vacation package, and a local professional will personally help you to plan your perfect East Iceland holiday.

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Full Guide: 13 Phenomenal Things to Do in East Iceland

East Iceland is a hidden gem compared to the rest of Iceland. On the opposite side of the country from the capital, far fewer people visit its gorgeous fjords than the southern coast or Snaefessness Peninsula .

Yet, it’s worth the multi-day drive to see it. While the places aren’t as famous or popular, that’s what makes them charming. I mean, there are still many things to do in East Iceland that will blow your mind!

A Guide to the Best 13 Things to Do in East Iceland

East Iceland is a treasure that often goes unnoticed by travelers when exploring the stunning landscapes of this Nordic island nation. This region boasts some of Iceland’s most dramatic and breathtaking scenery, with its towering mountains, winding fjords, and endearing coastal towns.

If you’re looking for an adventure-filled trip filled with hiking trails offering spectacular views, quaint fishing villages to explore, and natural wonders to discover at every turn, then East Iceland should be on your list of must-visit destinations.

Let’s get acquainted with the things to do in East Iceland and help you explore this wonderful place!

Is East Iceland Worth Visiting?

Yes, full stop. While it might not have the classic destinations showcased on Instagram, the things to do in East Iceland are really lovely, and the scenery is stunning. Plus, the green and lush landscapes are a welcomed relief after days of driving through volcanic wastelands.

Many people don’t get this far, and it’s understandable as it’s a long way from the capital. However, if you plan to visit, I think you’ll love your time in the East Iceland Fjords.

What you should know about East Iceland

What is the largest town in eastern iceland.

Egilsstaðir is the largest town in East Iceland. With a population of around 3,000, it dwarfs the rest of the towns on the eastern half. A bartender I chatted with said they even had two grocery stores and banks – a huge deal in the area. There’s a good amount of things to do in East Iceland if you make this your home base!

Not a lot of tourists

If you’re checking out the things to do in East Iceland, odds are you’re making a drive around the Ring Road. And because of this, you won’t find large tour buses in the area. This creates a more peaceful environment when visiting the sites, and you don’t have to contend with passing them on single land roads.

We had a larger camper van, and not worrying about the tour busses was one of my favorite parts of the area.

How far of a drive is it from Reyjkavik to East Iceland’s fjords?

It will be a seven- nine-hour drive depending on where you end up. Additionally, going from Reykjavik to Egilsstadir, you go north around the island clockwise. If you wanted to see Hofn, you’d go south and counterclockwise.

What is East Iceland known for?

East Iceland was gorgeous. The fjords are spectacular, everything is green (as opposed to parts of the southern coast, which are desolate and volcanic), and you’ll have it primarily to yourself. They also do a lot of fishing and farming in the area.

Exciting things to do in East Iceland

There are a handful of tours and things to do in East Iceland. Check out this link below for some cool activities!

How long of a trip do I need to see the best things to do in East Iceland?

If you are going to make it to the East Iceland fjords, you should be doing, at a minimum, an eight-day trip. This will allow you to see enough of the southern coast, hangout out on the eastern side for a few days, and then quickly drive back to Reykjavik.

The last thing you want to do is drive all the way out but not get to experience the best things to do in East Iceland.

The 13 Top Places to See on Your Road Trip to East Iceland

1. stokksness and vestahorn.

One of the coolest places I’ve ever laid eyes on. The mountains literally rise off the black sand beach and create the most stunning photos. There are a good amount of hiking opportunities here as well, so you could spend 15 minutes or three hours.

Also in the area is the ‘Old Viking Village’ created for a movie (never released) and then used in Netflix’s The Witcher .

Lastly, there is a fee to enter Stokksness. I think it was under $10. Worth it in my mind.

2. Stuðlagil Canyon

One of the classics you have to stop at while enjoying East Iceland. However, we made a small whoopsie here, so I will help you all not do that.

There are two spots that Google Maps shows you. One is on the west side of the canyon; the other is on the eastern side.

To walk inside the canyon, you have to go to the east side and park at the Stuðlafoss Waterfall Parking lot. (The first sign you for a left turn to Studlagil will take you there.) You’ll cross a bridge and have a bumpy but doable dirt road. From the parking lot, you have a 1.5-mile hike.

If you want to go to the campground, continue along the main road and follow the second sign for Studlagil. The campground overlooks the canyon, but you CANNOT get down below.

RELATED : Kayaking in the Jorkulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Of the things to do in East Iceland, this is one you need to check off. It’s so dang cool to walk down and experience the size of the basalt canyon.

Looking for more? Check out Hafrahvammar Canyon . Just know you are WAY out there.

3. Rjúkandafoss 

This one is right before the turn-off to Studlagil Canyon . It’s a cool series of waterfalls just a short half mile from the parking area. Odds are you’ll have the place to yourself!

4. East Iceland Fjords

These were absolutely stunning to drive through. The mountains reminded me of Glacier National Park as Icelan’s East Fjords were carved by glaciers.

We stayed one night at a campground in Djupivogur and found it quite lovely – but you had to pay for showers.

5. Hvannagil – The Golden Valley

This looks like a mini-Landamannalauger and is a short drive off the Ring Road. Again, we didn’t get to stop, but if you have a drone, this will look incredible from above with braided rivers and colorful mountains!

6. Fauskasandur

This is one of the cool things to do in East Iceland, and easily accessible as it’s right off the road. We didn’t stop at the close overlook but saw it from the road above. The road view is stunning, with big mountains in the background.

7. Dettifoss

Consistently the most powerful waterfall in Europe, Dettifoss is a sight to behold. There are ways to access it – East and West. The eastern side is a normal road, while the western side is an F-Road.

Due to this discrepancy, all the crowds go to the east. On this side, it’s more developed (with bathrooms), but you can’t get as close to the waterfall as on the other side.

We had a 4×4 camper van but elected to go the easier-to-access side and save us from another dirt road.

8. Hverir and Námafjall

We called this Iceland’s Yellowstone, as the geothermal area reminded us of Yellowstone. (And yes, it did smell like it too.) You can walk around and see the bubbling mud pots, hot springs, and more. It’s one of the more unique things to do in East Iceland.

As a heads up, tourist buses stop here, so it can get wildly busy, and there are no bathrooms here.

9. Krafla Crater

A turquoise blue crater in the larger geothermal area. You can park and quickly walk right up to the edge of the crater. You can walk around it if you want to, but I don’t think that’s necessary. It’s about a 15-minute detour off the Ring Road and right next to the above Hverir.

10. Nykurhylsfoss (Sveinsstekksfoss)

A beautiful waterfall that requires a short half-mile hike (with a slight elevation) to a gorgeous waterfall. It’s right off the road, and you’ll likely see a few cars in the parking lot. For its ease, add it to your things to do in East Iceland list!

11. Búðarárfoss

One of the highlights of our Ring Road drive. In mid-June, this hike was teaming with Lupine. It created the most magical scene while hiking up. We clocked the hike at about 2.4 miles round trip with only a little bit of elevation gain.

The trail starts behind the WW2 museum and is nicely maintained. After a half mile, you’ll hike on a dirt road toward the top of the waterfall. I highly, highly recommend this hike!

12. Borgarfjarðarhöfn

We didn’t have time to get here, but this spot is known for having puffins. Considering how far away it is from most tourist travel routes, I imagine it is not crowded. Obviously, not the easiest way to see puffins in Iceland, but if you’re in the area, you might as well make a stop!

13. Beljandi Brewery

This spot had incredible reviews, and people seem to love it. Again, we didn’t sadly get a chance to make it due to its opening/closing times. But if you make it to Breiðdalsvík, stop in!

FAQ: East Iceland

How long does it take to drive from höfn to egilsstaðir.

The shortest and most direct route will take around three hours to drive there. This cuts off some of your East Iceland fjords which are beautiful. Doing more of the fjords – which I recommend – will add about an hour to your drive time.

It’s an hour that’s definitely worth it unless you are extremely short on time!

Is there something you wish you could have done if you had more time?

Yes, we didn’t have the time to visit Askja Crater in the middle of the country. It looks ridiculously beautiful but requires a full-day tour, which we couldn’t swing. If you’re looking for something you’ll remember forever, book a trip here .

Where should I stay in East Iceland?

There are tons of small towns throughout the fjords where you’ll be able to find a place. If you want more services and restaurants, Egilsstaðir is your best bet. However, staying here, you won’t be directly in the fjords and might lose the charm of the area.

What is it like buying alcohol?

Iceland doesn’t sell alcohol in their grocery stores like in the US. They have liquor stores that don’t open until the afternoon (4 pm in one spot), which means if you go grocery shopping in the morning, you won’t be able to buy beer or wine.

Furthermore, for buying alcohol in restaurants, we found glasses of wine to be between $12-$17, which is comparable to Seattle.

What to wear in the summer while visiting East Iceland?

As you know, the weather can fluctuate, but for us, in the middle of June, it was quite warm. I think highs were in the low 70’s, which, this north, feels really warm.

I would recommend the following:

• Lightweight hiking shirt (wool or moisture-wicking)
• H iking shorts /pants
• Wide-brimmed hat
• Trail Runners or Low/Mid Level Hiking shoes
• 2L of water

Wrapping Up – Things to Do in East Iceland

East Iceland is a hidden gem that offers breathtaking fjords, thrilling hiking trails, and unique travel experiences. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or someone who enjoys taking in the beauty of nature, this region has something to offer everyone. The things to do in East Iceland will fill you with so much joy you’ll want to return!

From exploring the stunning Stuðlagil Canyon to indulging in local hiking in charming towns like Fauskasandur, plenty of activities and attractions are waiting for you.

Finally, if you’re planning your next trip to Iceland, add East Iceland to your itinerary!

Until next time adventurers, take care and be safe.

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What to See and Do When Visiting East Iceland?

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Escape the touristy spots and explore the most beautiful places on the east coast of Iceland. With its tranquil fjords, charming coastal towns, and breathtaking landscapes, this region offers an unforgettable adventure. Let our guide lead you to the very best of the East Coast and discover a whole new side of Iceland!

INTRODUCTION

Escape the touristy spots and explore the most beautiful places on the east coast of Iceland. With its tranquil fjords, charming coastal towns, and breathtaking landscapes, this captivating region offers an unforgettable adventure. Let our guide lead you to the very best of the East Coast and discover a whole new side of Iceland. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity. Save this complete guide to things to do on the East Coast of Iceland for your next adventure!

GENERAL INFORMATION

East Iceland, located on the opposite side of the capital, Reykjavik, is less frequented by tourists, making it a perfect destination for those seeking solitude amidst nature. Tourist attractions on the East Coast include dramatic waterfalls, towering mountains, winding fjords, and charming coastal towns. Egilsstaðir, the largest town in East Iceland, is an ideal base for exploring East Iceland attractions.

The view of Eastfjords in Iceland.

THE EAST ICELAND FJORDS

The East Iceland Fjords stretch over a 120-kilomete r (75-mile) coastline , offering a mesmerizing blend of nature's wonders. These fjords, carved by glaciers long ago, present a captivating landscape of narrow inlets surrounded by cliffs. Only about 3.2% of Iceland's population resides in this vast area, which spans 22,721 square kilometers (8,773 square miles). The region is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including wild reindeer herds, migratory birds like the elusive puffin, and colonies of seals near river estuaries. 

Moreover, the waters here are fertile grounds for whales and dolphins, which are often visible even from the shoreline. The towering Snӕfell mountain , Iceland's highest free-standing peak, dominates the landscape, while the expansive Vatnajökull glacier , Europe's largest, extends to the borders of Eastern Iceland. The East Fjords are also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking opportunities, especially in areas like Borgarfjörður Eystri, known for its folklore tales of elves and hidden folk. 

The region's basalt rock formations, particularly in Studlagil Canyon, are a sight for nature lovers and geologists. The East Fjords' breathtaking coastlines and tranquil ambiance make for an unforgettable experience for those traveling the Ring Road .

FACTS ABOUT EAST ICELAND

• East of Iceland has the country's largest forest.
• Egilsstaðir, with a population of around 2,500, is the region's biggest town, connected daily to Reykjavik by flights.
• The landscapes of the East have inspired countless artists, including the renowned painter Jóhannes Sveinsson Kjarval.
• Unique geological formations dot the region, from Borgarfjörður Eystri's rhyolite structures to bright basalt cliffs along the coast.
• Seyðisfjörður village is the primary sea gateway from Europe, welcoming travelers aboard the Smyril Line ferry.
• A drive from Reykjavik to the East's fjords can span 7 to 9 captivating hours.

27 BEST PLACES TO VISIT & THINGS TO DO IN EAST ICELAND

1. BELJANDI BREWERY

The bar Beljandi interior with wooden stools and tables.

Located in the town of Breiðdalsvík, Beljandi Brewery is East Iceland's first microbrewery . It offers a variety of craft beers, each with a unique taste and character. The brewery is housed in a renovated cowshed, giving it a rustic charm. Visitors can take a guided brewery tour , learn about beer-making, and taste different brews. The brewery also has a cozy bar where guests can relax and enjoy their drinks. The name "Beljandi" is derived from the nearby Beljandi waterfall, a hidden gem in the Breiðdalur valley.

2. BORGARFJÖRÐUR EYSTRI FJORD

Borgarfjörður Eystri fjord in East Iceland

Borgarfjörður Eystri is a picturesque fjord situated in East Iceland. This tranquil fjord is renowned for its breathtaking scenic beauty, encompassing majestic mountains, serene waters, and lush greenery. It's a haven for hikers , offering trails that meander through its diverse landscapes. The fjord is also home to a vibrant birdlife , making it a popular spot for birdwatchers, as every summer, more than 10,000 puffin couples nest here. The quaint village within the fjord adds to its charm, offering visitors a glimpse into the authentic Icelandic way of life .

3. BORGARFJARÐARHÖFN HARBOR

Borgarfjarðarhöfn harbor during the sunny day.

Located near Borgarfjörður Eystri, Borgarfjarðarhöfn is a special harbor area dedicated to birdwatching . It's particularly famous for its puffin colony . During summer, from May to August, visitors flock to this harbor to observe puffins in their natural habitat. The area is equipped with wooden platforms and walkways, ensuring visitors can get up close to the puffin burrows without causing any disturbance to these lovable birds. In addition to puffins, Borgarfjarðarhöfn is a habitat for other seabirds like kittiwakes, fulmars, and eiders.

4. BÚÐARÁRFOSS WATERFALL

The valley with purple wildflowers leading to Búðarárfoss waterfall

Búðarárfoss is a picturesque waterfall situated near the Reyðarfjörður town in East Iceland. The waterfall is not as famous as other waterfalls in Iceland, making it a peaceful spot for visitors looking to escape the crowds. The cascading waters of Búðarárfoss are surrounded by lush greenery during the summer months. The waterfall is easily accessible through a nice walking path from the city center, and there's a parking area nearby for visitors.

5. FAUSKASANDUR BLACK SAND BEACH

Rock column sticking out of sea in Fauskasandur black sand beach.

Easily accessible right off the road, Fauskasandur is a secret gem in East Iceland. This black sand beach is characterized by a massive monolith that rises from its shore. The almost rectangular giant rock appears out of place, standing like a missing piece from the nearby mountains. With its top covered in green foliage, this natural rock formation adds a unique touch to the dark shoreline. The stark contrast between the white waves and the black sand is genuinely mesmerizing. Unlike other famous black sand beaches in Iceland, Fauskasandur is less frequented , allowing visitors to explore the area freely and intimately. 

The beach is open to the public and can be visited anytime. During the summer, visitors can enjoy long walks along the shore under the midnight sun while winter showcases the captivating contrast between the white snow and the black sand.

6. DJUPAVOGSKORIN HOT SPRING

A woman enjoying the view from the Djúpavogskörin Hot Springs.

Djúpavogskörin Hot Springs, located in East Iceland, is a secluded spot that promises a warming dip . The hot spring is just before the historic town of Djúpivogur and is hidden behind a rock, making it a serene escape from the usual tourist spots. While the large hot tub has been removed as of 2023, there's a new addition: a small tub by the electricity cabin filled with hot running water. This intimate tub, which can fit two people at most, has some algae on the bottom and might seem a bit rustic, but it offers a delightful soak. The thermal bath overlooks the mountains , providing a picturesque, captivating view on clear sunny days or during heavy snow. 

The locals set up the pool to enjoy thermal baths and bonding with friends and family. There's a small deck near the pool where visitors can relax. And while there aren't dedicated changing facilities, a wooden deck ensures you can change without stepping on muddy ground.

7. PAPEY ISLAND

Yellow lighthouse in Papey Island.

Just a short ferry ride from Djúpivogur town during the summer, Papey Island is a remote and secluded attraction. Papey spans approximately 2 square kilometers (0.77 square miles) and stands 59 meters (193 ft) above sea level. Historically, the island's name, "Papey," is derived from "The Papar," which refers to the Irish Christian hermits believed to be Iceland's initial settlers before the Norse arrived. The island's history reveals that it reached its peak population of 16 inhabitants in 1726. Despite its isolation, the islanders led self-sufficient lives, relying on farming, fishing, and hunting. By 1966, the island became uninhabited . Today, Papey is renowned for its rich birdlife, especially its large Atlantic Puffins and guillemots colonies. 

The island also boasts an old small wooden church in Iceland, alongside other historical remnants such as a lighthouse and an automated weather station. To visit the island, you must embark on a boat tour from Djúpivogur village during the summer months, which offers a unique opportunity to experience the island's natural beauty and historical significance.

8. PETRA'S STONE COLLECTION

Icelandic minerals at Petra’s Stone Mineral Collection

Located in the village of Stöðvarfjörður, Petra's Stone Collection is a fascinating display of Iceland's geological wonders. Petra Sveinsdóttir, the woman behind this collection, began gathering stones and minerals from the East Fjords in her childhood. Over the years, her passion turned into one of the most comprehensive private collections of Icelandic minerals . Visitors can marvel at the array of colors, shapes, and sizes of the stones, each telling a unique story of Iceland's volcanic and geological history. The garden outside her home, where the collection is housed, is adorned with these beautiful stones, making it a magical place to wander and reflect.

9. RED CHAIR ART INSTALLATION ON THE RING ROAD

Red chair sculpture on the rocks in East Iceland.

Between Höfn and Egilsstadir, a peculiar sight might catch your eye - a giant red chair! This art installation, set against the vast landscapes of East Iceland, is both intriguing and photogenic. It serves as a quirky pit stop for travelers and offers a fun photo opportunity . This is your reminder to take a moment, sit down (at least metaphorically), and soak in the beauty of the surroundings. The chair, with its vibrant color, contrasts beautifully with the green meadows in summer and the snowy landscapes in winter, making it a year-round attraction.

10. RJÚKANDI WATERFALL

Rjúkandi waterfall falling down the rocks and green moss.

Situated between the scenic towns of Egilsstadir and Akureyri, Rjúkandi, also known as Rjúkandafoss, is Iceland's twelfth-highest waterfall boasting an impressive height of 305 feet (93 m). This cascade is uniquely visible from the northern segment of the Ring Road yet remains a tranquil retreat, often overlooked by the typical tourist crowd. Its name, derived from the Icelandic term “rjuka,” meaning “to steam or blow away,” aptly describes the misty aura surrounding the falls, sometimes even showcasing rainbows on sunny days. A short 0.6 km out-and-back trail near Fljótsdalshérað leads visitors to this serene spot, best visited between May and September.

11. GUFU WATERFALL

Located in the scenic landscapes of East Iceland, Gufu waterfall, or Gufufoss in Icelandic, stands as a captivating natural wonder. It's situated close to the main Ring Road and is just a short 5-minute drive or a 45-minute uphill walk from the picturesque Seyðisfjörður village. While it draws comparisons to the renowned Skógafoss due to their similarities, Gufufoss offers its unique charm with a serene environment, providing a tranquil haven for visitors. The waterfall's grandeur is emphasized by its origin in the River Fjarðará, known for its cascade of 25 distinct waterfalls, with Gufufoss being a prominent highlight. For those planning a visit, there's no need for a 4-wheel drive ; any standard car can easily access the adjacent parking spot leading to a brief stroll to the mesmerizing waterfall.

12. HALLORMSSTADUR NATIONAL FOREST

Lake Lagarfljót on a sunny day at Hallormsstaður National Forest.

Even though Iceland isn't famous for its forests, the people here are passionate about trees. In fact, Icelanders plant more trees per person than anywhere else in the world! Hallormsstaður National Forest is Iceland's largest forest and a lush haven contrasting the country's icy terrains. Covering 740 hectares , this verdant expanse is home to over 85 tree species from more than 600 locations worldwide. As you wander through, you might even spot the delicate Arctic starflower, a midsummer bloom that adds a touch of white to the green canvas. For those who love to explore, there are over 40 km of trails and paths of varying lengths and difficulty levels. If you're planning to spend more time amidst nature, there are two camping sites, Atlavík and Höfðavík, both nestled close to the serene Lake Lagarfljót. 

This forest has a special place in Iceland's history. It was protected in 1905 and made it the country's first national forest. The Icelandic Forest Service takes care of this place, ensuring it's open for everyone throughout the year.

13. HENGIFOSS & LITLANESFOSS WATERFALLS

Litlanesfoss waterfalls cascading down the basalt columns.

Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss are two iconic waterfalls in East Iceland that captivate visitors with their stunning beauty. Towering at a staggering 128 meters (419 ft), Hengifoss is the third-highest waterfall in Iceland and a sight that captivates every visitor. The waterfall's unique rock layers of red clay interspersed between basalt strata tell a story of volcanic eruptions from over 5-6 million years ago. These distinctive red stripes are remnants of old soil, with the red hue resulting from the oxidation of iron in the clay. 

But Hengifoss isn't the only gem in this area. As you embark on the 5-kilometer (3-mile) round-trip hike to reach it, you'll encounter Litlanesfoss , a mesmerizing waterfall framed by some of the tallest basalt columns in Iceland, reaching heights of 15-20 meters (49-65 ft). Often referred to as Stuðlabergsfoss or the Basalt Column Falls, Litlanesfoss cascades down in two steps, forming a 30-meter(98 ft) high spectacle. Its location, about halfway to Hengifoss, makes it a perfect spot for a short break and some unforgettable photos. For those exploring East Iceland, the combined majesty of Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss is an unmissable experience.

14. SEYÐISFJÖRÐUR VILLAGE

Rainbow pathway leading up to the church in Seyðisfjörður village.

Nestled between the fjord of the same name, Seyðisfjörður is a charming fishing village in East Iceland mainly known for its iconic blue church and the rainbow road leading up to it. Seydisfjordur is also a hub for arts and crafts, with numerous workshops and galleries showcasing the work of local artists. The town's harbor is a significant point of interest, serving as a docking spot for ferries from Continental Europe, and it played an important role during World War II. The surrounding landscapes, with waterfalls, hiking trails, and panoramic viewpoints, make Seyðisfjörður a must-visit destination for travelers exploring East Iceland. Additionally, with less than 700 residents , the village offers visitors a serene and intimate experience.

15. NYKURHYLSFOSS (SVEINSSTEKKSFOSS)

Nykurhylsfoss falling down the rocks in East Iceland.

Sveinstekksfoss, also known as Fossárfoss or Nykurhylsfoss, is a captivating waterfall in East Iceland, just northwest of Djúpivogur. Plunging from a height of 15 meters (49 ft) on the Fossá River, it's the final cascade before the river meets the Atlantic Ocean . Framed by layered basalt formations , waterfall’s roaring waters contrast the dark surroundings. The waterfall's unique setting , with the ability to view it from the canyon's rim, offers visitors a distinctive and immersive experience. A short and easy 0.2-km trail leads to the waterfall, making it an easy and pleasant stroll. This is a nice leisurely walk, and due to its off-the-beaten-path location, it's rare to encounter large crowds.

16. STOKKSNESS PENINSULA

Mountain chain in Stokksnes Peninsula.

Nestled in Southeast Iceland, Stokksnes Peninsula is one of the best photography locations in Iceland. Dominated by the iconic Vestrahorn Mountain, this region offers a captivating contrast with its black sand beaches and towering peaks. Stokksnes is not just a beautiful spot; it also has a rich history dating back to the 9th Century, making it one of Iceland's oldest settlements. Its significance also extends to World War Two, serving as a strategic point for the British army. Whether you're there for 15 minutes or 3 hours, the landscape is bound to leave an impression. Visitors should note that there's a small fee to access the Stokksness area, but the panoramic views of the mountains, beach, and the Northern Lights (during winter) make it a worthwhile experience.

17. VESTAHORN & EYSTRAHORN MOUNTAINS

Eystrahorn mountain on Stokksnes Peninsula.

Vestrahorn and Eystrahorn, two of Iceland's iconic peaks, stand as majestic guardians on the Stokksnes Peninsula. Vestrahorn, often dubbed "Batman Mountain" due to its distinctive silhouette, reaches an impressive height of 454 meters (1489 ft) while its counterpart, Eystrahorn, boasts a summit of 756 meters (2480 ft). These mountains are unlike anything you've ever seen before. Their jagged peaks and steep cliffs jut out of the black sand beaches, creating a stunning contrast that will leave you speechless. And if you're a nature enthusiast or photographer, you'll be captivated by their raw and untamed beauty. But there's more to these mountains than just their looks. Their ancient basalt formations speak volumes about the volcanic activity that shaped them millions of years ago. All in all, this breathtaking panorama is a symbol of Iceland's incredible landscape that you won't want to miss.

18. VIKING VILLAGE REPLICA

Situated near Stokksness, the Viking Village Replica offers a glimpse into the life of the Norse settlers who once inhabited Iceland. The village, with its traditional turf houses, wooden structures, and artifacts, transports visitors back to the Viking Age . It is set against the backdrop of the majestic Vestahorn mountain and provides a unique blend of history and natural beauty, making it a must-visit spot for history or movie buffs and nature lovers. Although initially constructed for a film that never saw the light of day, the replica gained popularity as a filming location for Netflix's "The Witcher."

19. STUÐLAGIL CANYON

Studlagil Canyon in the East of Iceland.

Hidden within the Jökuldalur Valley, Stuðlagil Canyon is a geological phenomenon known for its massive basalt columns. The canyon's beauty was relatively unknown until recent years, primarily because it was submerged under the Jökla River. However, with the construction of the Kárahnjúkar Hydropower Plant, the water levels receded, revealing the canyon's true splendor. For the best experience, visitors are advised to approach from the eastern side, which offers a trail leading into the canyon. The hike is moderately challenging but rewards trekkers with up-close views of the basalt formations and the serene ambiance of the canyon.

20. VÖK GEOTHERMAL BATHS

Vök Geothermal Baths from above.

Located near Egilsstaðir in East Iceland, Vök Geothermal Baths offers a luxurious spa experience amidst natural surroundings. The baths are unique as they are Iceland's only floating geothermal baths . Situated on Lake Urriðavatn, visitors can soak in warm geothermal waters while enjoying views of the serene lake and surrounding landscapes. The water at Vök Baths is rich in minerals and is believed to have healing properties. Apart from the main baths, a steam bath uses geothermal steam rising from the lake's depths. The on-site café offers local delicacies and herbal teas made from hand-picked Icelandic herbs, enhancing the spa experience.

21. HVALNES LIGHTHOUSE

Hvalnes Lighthouse in Hvalnes Peninsula.

Standing tall on the Hvalnes Peninsula, the Hvalnes Lighthouse is a beacon of hope for sailors navigating the treacherous waters of the North Atlantic. Built in 1954 , this iconic orange lighthouse is a navigational aid and a popular tourist attraction. Its strategic location offers panoramic view s of the vast ocean, rugged cliffs, and, on clear days, the distant Vestrahorn mountain range. The area surrounding the lighthouse is also a birdwatcher's paradise , with numerous species, including skuas and puffins, often spotted in the vicinity.

22. HVANNAGIL – THE GOLDEN VALLEY

Hvannagil Valley with rhyolite mountains.

Hvannagil, known as "The Golden Valley," is a treasure in East Iceland. With its intertwining rivers and vivid rhyolite mountains , this valley becomes especially enchanting during sunrise and sunset as the landscape glows in a mesmerizing golden hue. Nestled near the settlement of Staffafell and close to the Lonsoraefi nature reserve, Hvannagil is both a quiet escape and a hiker's paradise. For hiking enthusiasts, Hvannagil offers two primary trails . The shorter Hvannagil round trip, approximately 2 hours in duration, takes you through a dry river bed and up a steep hill, providing breathtaking views of the canyon. For those seeking a longer hike, the Hvannagil-Raftagil round trip is an excellent choice, immersing you deeper into the valley's beauty.

Beyond the valley, the F980 road leads to the expansive Lonsoraefi hiking area . This route promises scenic drives with the river Jökulsá and the towering Hvannagil mountains as your backdrop. And for those visiting at the right time, witnessing the ethereal dance of the northern lights in Rauðaberg could be the highlight of your Icelandic adventure.

23. LAGARFLJOT LAKE

Lagarfljot glacial lake near Egilsstaðir in East Iceland.

Lagarfljot, or Lögurinn, is a long, narrow glacial lake near Egilsstaðir in East Iceland. Spanning over 53 km in length, it's one of the largest lakes in the country. But what truly sets Lagarfljot apart is the legend associated with it. For centuries, locals and travelers have whispered tales of the Lagarfljot worm , a mysterious cryptid serpent believed to inhabit the lake's murky depths. Sightings of this creature, often compared to Scotland's Loch Ness Monster, have been reported for centuries, adding a layer of mystique to the lake. Over the years, the legend has become an integral part of local folklore, drawing curious visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive creature.

24. FOLALDAFOSS WATERFALL

Folaldafoss waterfall falling down the rugged cliffs.

Folaldafoss Waterfall is a hidden jewel located in the river Berufjarðará in East Iceland. This picturesque waterfall cascades gracefully from a height of approximately 20 meters (65 ft), surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush greenery . The name 'Folaldafoss' translates to 'Foal Waterfall,' a serene spot away from the usual tourist trails. The waterfall is easily accessible by car, and a short walk will lead you to a viewing platform where you can admire its beauty. Whether you're a photographer looking for a unique shot or a traveler seeking tranquility, Folaldafoss is a must-visit.

25. EGGS OF GLEÐIVÍK SCULPTURE

Eggs of Gleðivík sculpture near the village of Djúpivogur.

The Eggs of Gleðivík is an intriguing outdoor art installation located near the village of Djúpivogur in East Iceland. Created by Icelandic artist Sigurður Guðmundsson, this sculpture consists of 34 large stone eggs , each representing a different bird species found in the area. The eggs are beautifully arranged on the coastline, offering a harmonious blend of art and nature. Visitors can stroll among the eggs, read about the bird species, and enjoy panoramic views of the fjord. Experience the vibrant birdlife of the region through this one-of-a-kind attraction, showcasing the beautiful relationship between nature and art. It's truly a celebration!

26. TVÍSÖNGUR SOUND SCULPTURE

Tvísöngur Sound Sculpture on a hill near Seyðisfjörður town.

Tvísöngur Sound Sculpture is a remarkable art installation nestled on a hill above the town of Seyðisfjörður in East Iceland. Designed by German artist Lukas Kühne, this concrete structure comprises five interconnected domes , each resonating with a different tone from the Icelandic musical tradition . As the wind blows, the sculpture produces harmonious sounds, creating a meditative and immersive experience for visitors. The installation pays tribute to Iceland's rich musical heritage and offers breathtaking views of the fjord below. It's a place where art, nature, and history converge, offering a unique sensory experience.

27. WILDERNESS CENTER & HORSE RIDING

Wilderness Centre located in a beautiful remote landscape.

Located in the beautiful remote landscapes of East Iceland, the Wilderness Centre offers a unique chance to mix history and adventure. The heart of the center is its museum , which provides a detailed look into traditional Icelandic life . With carefully curated exhibits, visitors can learn about the challenges and triumphs of the Icelandic people through the ages. When staying here, you can enjoy unique accommodation , local food, exhibitions, horse riding, marked hiking trails, mountain biking, day tours, and more! But the experience goes beyond the indoors. Step outside and join a horse ride that lasts around 2.5-3 hours and takes you through untouched landscapes, from the historic Kleif farm to the stunning Jökulsá River.

East Iceland is truly special. Beyond the usual tourist spots, it offers a genuine slice of Icelandic charm. Imagine driving through winding roads with vast landscapes stretching out, from quiet fjords reflecting the sky to peaceful waterfalls hidden amidst lush greenery. 

The region is dotted with quaint villages where local traditions are alive and well, and the scenery changes with every turn, from rugged coastlines to serene valleys. It's also home to some lesser-known attractions that are as breathtaking as the popular ones. So, when you think of Iceland, remember there's a whole world to explore in the east . Dive in and enjoy every moment. Safe journeys!

Best Things to Do in East Iceland - FAQ’s

Snow-covered mountains on sunny winter day near Djúpivogur.

IS IT WORTH GOING TO EAST ICELAND?

Absolutely! You can find a ton of things to do on East Coast, from cascading waterfalls and deep canyons to small towns and unique attractions. It's less crowded than other parts of Iceland, making it perfect for travelers seeking a more serene experience.

WHAT IS EAST ICELAND KNOWN FOR?

East Iceland is known for its natural beauty, including waterfalls like Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss, the iconic Vestrahorn mountain, and unique attractions like the Viking Village Replica. It's also home to the charming town of Seydisfjordur and the Hallormsstadur National Forest, the largest forest in Iceland. Best places in the East Coast to visit will win you over with untouched landscapes, rich history, and authentic Icelandic experiences.

WHICH SIDE OF ICELAND IS BEST?

Each region of Iceland offers its unique attractions and experiences. While the more popular south is famous for its waterfalls and the Golden Circle, the east boasts natural wonders and lesser-known gems. The best side depends on individual preferences and what kind of experiences you are seeking.

WHAT CITY IS ON THE EAST COAST OF ICELAND?

Seydisfjordur is one of the famous towns on the east coast of Iceland. It's known for its brightly colored buildings, scenic beauty, and cultural attractions. However, Egilsstaðir is the biggest town in East Iceland, connected to Reykjavík with daily flights.

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Your essential travel guide to East Iceland

Spend a few days exploring the remote fjords, mountains and volcanic interior of Iceland’s spectacular Austurland region – William Gray gives his tips on hikes, tours and hidden gems

Often squeezed into an overnight stop on a self-drive tour of Iceland ’s Ring Road, the East makes a superb short break destination in its own right. With five days to lavish on the little-visited Austurland region, you can not only dawdle through the breathtaking East Fjords, but also spend time hiking in the mountains of Borgarfjörður Eystri and exploring the waterfalls, canyons and dormant volcanoes of the island’s rugged interior.

East Iceland’s main hub, the modern town of Egilsstaðir lies in a broad valley near the northern tip of Lagarfljót. Rumours of a serpent-like monster, known as the Wyrm, have been floating around this glacial lake since 1345, but the 740-hectare birchwood of Hallormsstaðaskógur seems just as fanciful as you drive along the lake’s southern shore.

While forests are a rarity in Iceland, waterfalls appear around every corner. One of the country’s tallest, 128m Hengifoss plunges over humbug-striped cliffs of black basalt and red clay at the threshold of the Highlands. Delve deeper into the interior and you’ll discover more cascades at Laugarfell, as well as hot springs and the 1,833m trekking peak of Snæfell, King of the Mountains. A short distance from the new hydroelectric dam at Kárahnjúkar, the Jökla River has gouged out the 200m-deep, 8km-long Hafrahvammagljúfur canyon. When the dam was commissioned, river levels dropped, revealing extraordinary basalt columns in Stuðlagil canyon, further downstream.

These are just some of the natural wonders to be found on routes west of Egilsstaðir. Head north, east or south from town and you’ll reach the coast where the East Fjords boast some of Austurland’s most sublime scenery. From Neskaupstaður in the north, a head-spinning drive hugs the coast, meandering between mountain and sea and joining the dots between fishing communities all the way south to Djúpivogur. Another road snakes over a mountain pass before unravelling past waterfalls to reach Seyðisfjörður with its elegant clapboard houses and thriving arts scene.

Drive north, meanwhile, and you’ll reach Borgarfjörður Eystri – prime walking country and a top spot for puffin-watching during summer. The coast and mountains here are riddled with hiking trails – tiptoe to Álfaborg (home to the queen of the Icelandic elves), make tracks for the deserted bay at Brúnavik or climb high into the mountains of Dyrfjöll, where reindeer graze and trolls hunker down among jumbled boulders.

Pretty Seyðisfjörður town (William Gray)

East Iceland in five days

Day 1: seyðisfjörður.

From Egilsstaðir, drive east over Fjarðarheiði pass, stopping to hike the short trail to Fardagafoss waterfall before reaching Seyðisfjörður. Stroll along colourful Rainbow Street to the Blue Church and visit the Skaftfell Centre for Visual Art.

Day 2: The Highlands

After an early start from Egilsstaðir, stop for breakfast at Móðir Jörð organic farm in Vallanes before driving through Iceland’s largest forest and hiking to the base of Hengifoss waterfall. Visit the Wilderness Centre at Snæfellsstofa and relax in the geothermal pool at Laugerfell with views of snow-capped Snæfell. A surfaced road continues to Kárahnjúkar Dam, but to complete the loop back to Egilsstaðir (via Stuðlagil canyon) you will need to use the F910 mountain road – only open in summer.

Exploring the coast near Djúpivogur (William Gray)

Day 3: Borgarfjörður Eystri

It’s a 70km drive from Egilsstaðir to this northernmost village in the East Fjords. Push on for another 5km to reach the harbour at Hafnarhólmi for intimate views of nesting puffins (May to July), then head to the jagged Dyrfjöll mountains inland. Don’t miss the 4–5hr hike from Borgarfjörður Eystri to Stórurð.

Days 4–5: East Fjords tour

Follow Route 1 south from Egilsstaðir to Reyðarfjörður. A detour west along Route 92 leads to Neskaupstaður where you can go whale-watching and visit a museum dedicated to wildlife, maritime heritage and modernist art. Drive south-east from Reyðarfjörður to Fáskrúðsfjörður, from where the road follows the coast to Stöðvarfjördur (home to the impressive rock collection of Petra Sveinsdóttir) and Breiðdalsvík – a tiny fishing village which leads to spectacular Breiðdalur valley. Continue south, hugging the coast, to reach Djúpivogur, before looping back to Egilsstaðir.

60m-tall Flögufoss falls is easily accessible within the Breiðdalur valley (William Gray)

Places to visit outdoors in East Iceland

The 1,069m pyramid-shaped peak of Búlandstindur looms over this peaceful fishing village in the East Fjords. After perusing the 34 stone sculptures of giant bird’s eggs at Gleðivík (created in honour of the 34 species that nest in the area), take a puffin-watching boat trip to Papey Island and explore the black-sand beaches and wetlands near the village.

Crest the pass into Breiðdalur, a long, broad valley braided with rivers and framed by 1,000m-tall basalt ramparts. Trek (by foot or on horseback) to the 60m-tall plume of Flögufoss, try your luck at fly fishing and wander the black-sand beaches near the fishing town of Breiðdalsvík.

Mjóifjörður

For a few months over summer, a steep and narrow gravel track provides access to this remote and beautiful 18km-long inlet. Hike to the multi-tiered waterfall of Klifbrekkufossar and explore the Priest’s Ravine (which takes its name from a local folktale) before reaching the two lonely lighthouses of Dalatangi (one basalt, one bright yellow). With a year-round population of just 14, the fjord’s only settlement has a small guesthouse where you can pop in for coffee and cake.

Places to visit indoors in East Iceland

Randulff’s seahouse, eskifjörður.

Dating from the boom years of the herring fishery in the late 19th century, this beautifully preserved building is part museum, part restaurant. Built by Norwegian Peter Randulff in 1890, the timber time-capsule is crammed with maritime memorabilia. Local delicacies include pickled shark and pan-fried puffin, washed down by throat-stripping Brennivín. randulffssjohus.is

French Museum, Fáskrúðsfjörður

Iceland’s ‘French Town’ was home to around 4,000 French fishermen from the mid-19th century until the First World War. A fascinating museum in the former French Hospital and Doctor’s House recounts their challenging lives as they plied Icelandic waters in search of cod. visitfjardabyggd.is

Bustarfell Museum

Hofsárdalur Located in the north of Austurland, Bustarfell is one of the oldest and best-preserved turf-roof houses in Iceland. Dating from at least 1532, when it was bought by Árni Brandsson and his wife Úlfheiður, the red-gabled buildings chart the history of farming in East Iceland. visitvopnafjordur.com

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Pretty Seyðisfjörður town sits at the edge of the same-named fjord (William Gray)

Top things to do in East Iceland

Hike from Borgarfjörður Eystri to Stórurð. This moderately strenuous 4–5hr trek leads to a hidden valley in the Dyrfjöll mountains. Here jade-coloured lakes are littered with boulders – the aftermath of a troll’s tantrum or a colossal Ice Age rockslide? – and is the stomping ground for East Iceland’s (introduced) reindeer.

Drive by superjeep to the north-east edge of the vast Vatnajökull icecap, where geothermal activity in the Kverkfjöll mountains has created deep ice caves. A day-long 4WD safari from Egilsstaðir crosses an austere landscape of ash fields, canyons and rivers. jeeptours.is

Climb Snæfell, Iceland’s tallest freestanding mountain, which stands on the edge of the Highlands, an hour’s drive from Egilsstaðir. It’s a tough but non-technical climb to reach its 1,833m summit. Set off from Snæfellsskáli Hut for the 7hr expedition; reward yourself afterwards with a soak in the Laugarfell hot springs.

Trek by horseback in Norðfjörður, setting out from a family farm in the East Fjords. Follow trails to waterfalls, splash through rivers and try the special fifth gait (known as tolt) of the stocky Icelandic horse. Suitable for novice to experienced riders, tours last from an hour to a day and saddle bag and helmet. skorrahestar.is

Discover more magical hiking in East Iceland

Superjeep safari into the interior (William Gray)

Author and expert William Gray

Bring your binoculars – the East Fjords are a top spot for birdwatching. Puffins steal the show at Borgarfjörður Eystri, but focus on Djúpivogur and you can not only see everyone’s favourite seabird (with around 30,000 pairs of puffins on Papey Island), but a whole lot more besides. Eider, scoter and other sea ducks shelter on Berufjörður to the north of the village, while the ponds and marshes of the nearby Bulandsnes peninsula attract waders, geese and swans.

– William Gray

Places to stay in east iceland, breiðdalsvík.

Hotel Bláfell Log cabin-style hotel with 39 rooms, cosy lounge with fireplace and library, and a restaurant specialising in local seafood and lamb. breiddalsvik.is

Neskaupstaður

Hotel Hildibrand Modern hotel offering spacious self-catering apartments with spectacular views of the fjord. hildibrandhotel.com

Egilsstaðir

Gistihúsið – Lake Hotel Egilsstaðir Family-run property on the banks of the Lagarfljót with a spa and restaurant serving fresh, local produce. Choose from rooms in the older part of the hotel, with antique furnishings, or contemporary accommodation in the new wing. lakehotel.is

Hotel Framtíð Village hotel dating from 1905, with a restaurant overlooking the harbour. Accommodation includes wood-panelled rooms, apartments and cottages. hotelframtid.com

Seyðisfjörður

Hotel Aldan Three historic houses with elegant rooms and a restaurant renowned for some of Iceland’s best sushi. hotelaldan.is

Its remote location means that few visitors experience 200m deep Hafrahvammagljúfur canyon (Shutterstock)

Essential travel information for East Iceland

International dialling code: +354

Currency : Króna (kr), currently around 180kr to the UK£.

Getting there: There are regular flights from the UK to Keflavík International Airport, a 45-minute transfer from Reykjavík. Icelandair ( icelandair.com ) operates daily 1hr flights from Reykjavík’s City Airport to Egilsstaðir. Seyðisfjörður is a port of call on the MS Norröna’s Denmark–Faroes–East Iceland route operated ( smyrilline.com ).

Getting around: Self-drive is the most popular way to explore the region – major car rental firms are based at Egilsstaðir airport. You will need a 4WD vehicle to tackle Highland tracks – or book a superjeep safari ( jeeptours.is ). SV-Aust buses ( austurfrett.is ) connect the main towns and villages.

Weather: Come prepared for all extremes, with plenty of layers, waterproofs and good hiking shoes. Hiking tours: Discover the World ( discover-the-world.com ) offers a six-night In the Footsteps of the Elves small-group guided walking holiday, based in Borgarfjörður Eystri.

Further information: east.is

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• Sep 18, 2023

A Bucket List of 15 Things To Do in East Iceland

East Iceland, a hidden gem tucked away from the bustling tourist trails, has pristine landscapes and untouched beauty. With its expansive fjords, quaint fishing hamlets, and breathtaking natural spectacles, it remains one of the country's best-kept secrets.

For those seeking an authentic Icelandic experience, look no further. Dive into our curated list of the best things to do in East Iceland and embark on an unforgettable journey.

1. Witness Vesturöræfi's Wild Wonders

One of the most exhilarating things to do in East Iceland is to witness the wild wonders of Vesturöræfi. This vast and untamed region is a testament to Iceland's raw beauty, where nature thrives in its purest form.

From rolling hills to serene lakes, Vesturöræfi offers a dramatic and serene landscape. But what truly sets it apart is its rich biodiversity. For those eager to see wildlife in Iceland , Vesturöræfi is a sanctuary.

Here, you might glimpse reindeer grazing, arctic foxes darting between rocks, or even the majestic sea eagles soaring above . Every visit promises a unique encounter, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a genuine connection with Iceland's wilderness.

2. Uncover Secrets at the East Iceland Heritage Museum

Unearth hidden treasures at the East Iceland Heritage Museum , a gem among the top East Iceland attractions. Delve into the unique culture shaped by the majestic reindeer of East Iceland.

Learn about their captivating lifestyle, the challenges they face, and their profound influence on local history. The museum also transports you back in time to the self-sufficient rural households of old , showcasing artifacts that tell tales of survival, craftsmanship, and beauty.

This one undoubtedly deserves a spot for those compiling a list of the most interesting museums in Iceland . Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking an enriching experience, embark on a journey of discovery and immerse yourself in the tales of East Iceland.

3. Delve Into the Crystal Ice Caves

Among the mesmerizing things to see in eastern Iceland, delving into the Crystal Ice Caves is a surreal experience. These ethereal chambers, adorned with thick, translucent blue glacial ice ceilings, play with natural light to create a dreamscape that leaves visitors in awe.

Formed naturally, these caves have become a magnet for global photographers eager to capture their otherworldly beauty. The most renowned of these is nestled within the Vatnajökull glacier, Europe's largest.

Its vast expanse can comfortably welcome up to 100 awestruck explorers. For those yearning to witness the magic of Ice caves in Iceland firsthand, the Crystal Ice Caves offer an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature's artistry.

4. Gallop Across Egilsstaðir's Landscapes

Among the myriad things to do in East Iceland, galloping across the pristine landscapes of Egilsstaðir is an experience that stands out. Travel East Iceland offers a remarkable tour that takes riders to the abandoned farm, Kleif.

Here, participants can revel in the tranquility of the surroundings and even challenge themselves with a traditional cableway crossing over the Jökulsá River . The iconic Icelandic horse's unique gait and sturdy build makes Iceland horseback riding an adventure like no other.

Each horse, handpicked for both safety and rider enjoyment, ensures an unforgettable experience. And as a fitting conclusion to this adventure, riders are treated to a delightful buffet at the Wilderness Center's kitchen. This tour is a harmonious blend of nature, thrill, and culinary delight.

5. Trek Vatnajökull's Majestic Terrain

One of the most iconic places to visit in East Iceland is the vast and awe-inspiring terrain of Vatnajökull National Park . This iconic gem within the national parks of Iceland , established in 2008, covers a staggering 13% of the country, ranking it among Europe's most expansive parks.

But it's not just its size that captivates visitors. Vatnajökull is a marvel of nature's interplay. It's a trekker's dream, from the icy stretches of Europe's largest glacier to the dynamic dance of volcanic and glacial landscapes . The park's diverse terrains, sculpted by rivers, glacial ice, and volcanic forces, offer a trek filled with wonder.

Intriguingly, Vatnajökull holds so much water that the Icelandic river with the greatest flow, Ölfusá, would require over 200 years to transport it all to the sea. For those searching for adventure and awe, Vatnajökull's majestic terrain beckons.

6. Marvel at Jökulsárlón's Icy Lagoon

Jökulsárlón's Icy Lagoon is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking things to see in East Iceland. This glacial wonder, often dubbed the crown jewel of Icelandic landscapes, offers a mesmerizing display of massive icebergs breaking off from the Vatnajökull glacier and drifting serenely on the lagoon's chilly waters.

The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is the deepest in Iceland , plunging over 248 meters (814 feet), and is surrounded by some of the country's most iconic scenery, including Hvannadalshnjúkur, its tallest mountain.

For an immersive experience, we highly recommend taking the Jökulsárlón Glacial boat tour , where you can sail amidst these ancient ice giants, some of which are 1000-1500 years old. This tour also offers stops at the renowned Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls.

7. Discover the Basalt Columns of Svartifoss

One of the standout eastern Iceland attractions is the mesmerizing Basalt Columns of Svartifoss . Nestled within the Skaftafell area of Vatnajökull National Park, Svartifoss, or ' Black Falls ,' is famed for its dramatic backdrop of geometrically perfect basalt columns resembling an organ's pipes.

These columns result from lava cooling slowly, causing crystallization and unique hexagonal patterns. The contrast of the dark basalt columns against the cascading white waters of the waterfall creates a visual spectacle that has inspired many Icelandic architects , most notably in the design of Reykjavík's Hallgrímskirkja church.

Venturing to Svartifoss offers a visual treat and a lesson in geology, making it a must-visit for those keen to delve deeper into Iceland's natural wonders.

8. Navigate East Iceland Via The Iconic Ring Road

One of the quintessential things to do in East Iceland is to drive along the iconic Ring Road . Officially known as Route 1, the Ring Road encircles the entire country, serving as a gateway to its most captivating sights.

In East Iceland, this route offers a tapestry of landscapes and attractions. Seyðisfjörður, a charming town adorned with colorful houses, beckons with its artistic allure. The Stokksnes peninsula's commanding views of Vestrahorn Mountain is a photographer's dream.

The geometric basalt columns of Svartifoss and the tranquil waters of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon are also easily accessible from this main artery. Navigating the Ring Road in East Iceland provides a sense of the region's vastness and its diverse and unparalleled beauty.

9. Go Beer Tasting at Ölverk's Icelandic Beer Haven

Embark on a unique gastronomic journey at Ölverk Pizza & Brewery , one of the best things to do in east Iceland. Nestled in the heart of Hveragerði, Ölverk offers an unparalleled experience for beer and food lovers.

Dive deep into the world of Icelandic craft beer, brewed using geothermal energy , a testament to Iceland's innovative spirit. Pair your beer tasting with their signature wood-fired pizzas, capturing the essence of Icelandic flavors.

Whether you're a seasoned beer enthusiast or a curious traveler, Ölverk promises an unforgettable experience. For those keen on exploring the broader beer landscape of the country, don't miss our comprehensive guide to beer in Iceland.

10. Wander Hallormsstaðaskógar's Forested Trails

Embarking on a journey through Hallormsstaðaskógar's forested trails is undeniably one of the most magical things to do in eastern Iceland. Unlike the typical icy landscapes, Iceland is known for, Hallormsstaðaskógar, the country's largest forest, unveils a world of verdant wonder.

Here, ancient birch trees whisper tales of old, while hidden glades open up to reveal shimmering lakes and secret waterfalls. As you tread along some of the best Iceland hiking trails , every step invites you to discover a new mystery.

The air, filled with the scent of wildflowers and the distant call of native birds, adds to the forest's enchantment. Venturing into Hallormsstaðaskógar isn't just a hike; it's a voyage into a fairy-tale realm, waiting to captivate the heart and soul of every explorer.

11. Capturing the Beauty of Vestrahorn

Vestrahorn, perched on the Stokksnes Peninsula, is a visual masterpiece and an east Iceland must-see for every traveler. The jagged peaks and pristine tidal lagoons create a mesmerizing canvas for photographers.

Whether it's the mountain's saw-tooth ridge silhouetted against a fiery sunset or its reflection shimmering in the calm waters of Kirkjusandur, Vestrahorn offers endless opportunities to capture nature's grandeur.

Adjacent Brunnhorn, famously dubbed the ' Batman Mountai n,' adds another layer of intrigue to this scenic locale. Our comprehensive guide to photography can be invaluable for those keen on immortalizing Iceland's raw beauty through their lenses.

12. Island-Hop to Mystical Papey

The Mystical Papey Island is a hidden gem among the things to do in east Iceland. Nestled off the coast near Djúpivogur village, Papey is a testament to Iceland's rich history and natural splendor.

Once a refuge for Irish monks escaping Norse settlers , this island whispers tales of bygone eras. Spanning just 2 square kilometers, Papey is a mosaic of tiny islands, skerries, and ocean rocks, each with its own story. As you wander its landscapes, you'll be greeted by diverse birdlife, including the iconic puffin.

And while you're there, don't miss the island's smallest church, a quaint structure built in 1904, and the remnants of homes that once thrived here. With its blend of history, nature, and serenity, visiting Papey is a journey back in time and a must-experience for every traveler in east Iceland.

13. Roam Seyðisfjörður's Quaint Streets

Stroll through the quaint streets of Seyðisfjörður, a jewel among the things to see in east Iceland. Tucked between towering mountains, this town sparkles like a gem in a crown, radiating history, culture, and nature's allure.

The vibrant timber houses, echoing Norway's architectural legacy from the 20th century, paint a vivid canvas of colors . Dive deep into the Icelandic culture as you embrace Seyðisfjörður's bohemian spirit, where every alley whispers tales of yesteryears. Unique dining spots beckon with the promise of local flavors, while boutique shops offer treasures waiting to be unearthed.

Beyond its charming streets, Seyðisfjörður unfolds a world of outdoor adventures and cultural delights. Here, every moment feels like a page from a captivating storybook, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the magic of East Iceland.

14. Soak in Vök Baths' Thermal Bliss

Dive into the thermal bliss of Vök Baths, a standout among the places to visit in east Iceland. Nestled by the serene Urriðavatn, this haven offers a unique blend of relaxation and Icelandic authenticity.

The 'vakir' – two floating pools in the lake – promise a soak like no other, with waters so pure they've been certified drinkable. As you immerse yourself, the nourishing algae, known for its skin-softening properties, adds a touch of luxury.

Beyond the baths, the Vök Bistro tempts with local delicacies, ensuring a holistic experience. For those seeking the best Iceland hot springs , Vök Baths is a must-visit, merging nature's wonders with modern comforts and offering a rejuvenating escape from the everyday.

15. Climb to Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss' Cascades

Set off on an adventure to Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss, two of the most captivating eastern Iceland attractions. Situated in the scenic landscapes of East Iceland, this trail offers hikers an immersive experience of the country's geological tapestry.

Hengifoss, with its impressive 128-meter (420 feet) drop , is a visual spectacle and a geological marvel. Its distinct red clay layers, interspersed between dark basaltic formations, tell tales of Iceland's ancient volcanic episodes. Halfway through the hike, Litlanesfoss awaits, framed by hexagonal basalt columns due to rapidly cooling lava flows from eons ago .

The trail, though just 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) one way, is a journey through time, revealing nature's artistry at every turn. With cascading waterfalls, unique rock formations, and panoramic vistas, this hike is a testament to the unparalleled beauty and history of eastern Iceland.

Embracing The Best Things To Do In East Iceland

Discovering the myriad things to do in East Iceland becomes an unparalleled adventure when you choose to rent a campervan in Iceland . This mode of travel not only grants you the freedom to explore at your own rhythm and offers the unique advantage of waking up to ever-changing, breathtaking vistas.

Think of the savings on accommodation and the luxury of having a cozy space wherever you go. Imagine sipping your morning coffee with Vestrahorn in the backdrop, or parking beside a serene lagoon for the night.

With a campervan, every moment in East Iceland becomes an intimate part of your journey, merging comfort with the wild beauty of the land.

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13 Things to Do in East Iceland: A Quick Guide to the Eastfjords

• 13 December 2022 15 April 2023

Iceland’s Eastern Region is one of the most remote and least visited areas of the entire country. Filled with natural wonders, narrow fjords, and tiny fishing villages, East Iceland is an unspoiled treasure that deserves more visitors than it currently gets. Here is a quick guide to all of the best things to do in East Iceland!

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. When you purchase through links on my site, I may make a small commission (at no extra cost to you!).

Stuðlagil Canyon

About east iceland.

East Iceland (also known as Austurland ) is characterized by its patchwork of lava caves, black sand beaches, waterfalls, traditional fishing villages, and jagged coastline. Herds of wild reindeer and flocks of chatty puffins are a common sight, depending on when you visit. You can also spot Iceland’s largest forest and a blue lagoon that’s rumored to be the home of the Loch Ness monster’s close cousin!

With a permanent population of just over 13,000 people, the East Coast of Iceland is the perfect place to escape into nature and get off the beaten path. Reykjavik , the Golden Circle , and South Iceland can seem like super crowded places in comparison!

How to get to East Iceland

You can reach East Iceland’s largest town, Egilsstaðir, by plane. Icelandair operates daily flights between Reykjavik’s Keflavik International Airport (KEF) and Egilsstaðir Airport (EGS).

Like most other things in Iceland , the journey won’t be cheap — roundtrip tickets for the 1-hour flight can cost upwards of $600 USD! If you’re short on time, though, flying could be a good option.

Getting to the east of Iceland by car is the more popular option for international visitors because it can be added as a stop on a longer Iceland road trip!

Most of the natural attractions in eastern Iceland are along the Ring Road, the main road that circles the country. I’d highly recommend renting a car (or a campervan) and road tripping the country — it’s the easiest way to see what you want and it gives you the ultimate sense of freedom!

Driving times to Egilsstaðir from:

• Reykjavik : 7 hours 50 minutes
• Vik : 6 hours 30 minutes
• Akureyri : 3 hours 15 minutes

⇉ Everything you need to know about driving in Iceland: A road trip guide

Things to do in East Iceland

Vestrahorn is a dramatic and remote mountain on the Stokksnes Peninsula near Iceland’s south coast. Located near the small fishing town of Höfn, the road leading toward Vestrahorn is popular with photographers and people wanting to take in the beautiful landscape.

The road is privately owned, so there is a small entrance fee of 900 ISK (about $6.50 USD) to drive it. Once there, you can also stop by an abandoned village built as a filming location (called Viking Village Prop For Movie on Google Maps).

Lækjavik is a nature reserve along Iceland’s southeastern coast. You’ll find steep cliffs, jagged fjords, and rugged beaches, as well as funky rock formations jutting out from the sea. The relaxing nature reserve is one of the best stops to make along the scenic drive up the coast — stretch your legs, dip your toes in the water, or have a picnic lunch with a view.

Petra’s Stone Collection

One of the more offbeat and quirky attractions in the surrounding area, Petra’s Stone Collection is a popular destination for visitors to East Iceland.

The attraction is exactly what it sounds like — a collection of rocks and stones that has been carefully curated by Petra, a local woman, over the years. The stones come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and colors and come from various areas around Iceland. You can learn all about their history and geological feature in the rock garden.

Petra’s Stone Collection has an entrance fee of 1,500 ISK ($10.54 USD).

Folaldafoss

Folaldafoss is a powerful and beautiful waterfall located just off the Ring Road on Route 939. It is one of the most stunning waterfalls in the country and has a drop of around 30 m (100 ft) over its two tiers. The cascade is framed by steep cliffs on either side that give it an impressive natural beauty, especially when the area is shrouded in fog.

From the parking lot, it’s a short walk through a grassy meadow to reach the base of the waterfall. The road to reach Folaldafoss is a bumpy gravel road best suited for 4WD vehicles.

Seyðisfjörður

Seyðisfjörður is a small fishing village in East Iceland with a population of around 700 people. Located on the country’s easternmost fjord, it is surrounded by spectacular mountains and overlooks an idyllic bay.

The town is known for its unique architecture, as many of the old wooden buildings have been carefully restored to their original condition. Seyðisfjörður has become popular among tourists who come to enjoy its natural beauty and vibrant town centre. Look out for Seyðisfjarðarkirkja, the baby blue church, and Rainbow Walk, the colorful trail leading to it.

There are plenty of outdoor activities around the town, including kayaking, cycling, and taking a boat ride through the fjord’s stunning landscape. Seyðisfjörður also offers some great dining options, including locally-caught seafood from restaurants such as Nordic Restaurant .

Borgarfjörður Eystri

Borgarfjörður Eystri is another tiny village in the depths of Iceland’s Eastfjords. The village has a population of only about 200 people, making it one of Iceland’s smallest communities.

The area around Borgarfjordur Eystri is known for its remarkable natural beauty and abundance of wildlife. The nearby mountain range offers beautiful views and a few backcountry hiking trails, while whales can often be spotted off the coast during the summer months. Birdwatchers will find plenty to see here as well — puffins, arctic terns, kittiwakes, and guillemots flock by the thousands.

Make sure to stroll over the flag bridge to check out Lindarbakki , a quaint turf house built partially into the ground.

See puffins at Borgarfjarðarhöfn

Borgarfjarðarhöfn is hands-down one of the best places to see puffins up close and personal.

Located just past the small town of Borgarfjörður Eystri, Borgarfjarðarhöfn offers a safe and convenient place to watch nesting puffins in their natural habitat. Wooden platforms and a shelter with viewing windows give you unobstructed views of the puffins as pop in and out of their holes.

Visitors can take boat tours out into the bay or explore the surrounding coastline by foot. With some of the best views of the East Fjords Iceland, Borgarfjarðarhöfn has become a popular tourist destination for nature lovers looking to experience some of Iceland’s incredible wildlife up close.

The Vök Baths are a set of four geothermal hot pools that float over Lake Urriðavatn. The pools range in temperature between 37-41 ° C (98.6-106 ° F). If you overheat, a quick dip in the lake or a trip through the cold mist tunnel will cool you off instantly.

In addition to the relaxing geothermal pools, the Vök Baths also offer a steam room and a swim-up pool bar. The hot springs are a great place to spend a chilly East Iceland afternoon!

Tickets start at 5,990 ISK ($42 USD) and can be bought online from the Vök Baths website in advance.

Lagarfljót is a long, narrow lake located in East Iceland. It is one of the country’s most famous bodies of water, and has been the subject of many myths and stories throughout its history. Legend has it that Lagarfljót Wyrm, a serpentine cousin of the Loch Ness monster, has been living in the water for hundreds of years!

The lake’s maximum depth reaches over 110 m (360 ft), making it one of Iceland’s deepest lakes. Lagarfljót is home to numerous species of fish including brown trout, Arctic char, and Atlantic salmon. In addition to its natural beauty and abundant wildlife, the area around Lagarfljót also offers plenty in the way of outdoor activities — Hallormsstaður Forest and Hengifoss waterfall are both just a short drive away.

Hallormsstaður Forest

Hallormsstaður Forest is the largest forest in Iceland, covering an area of around 740 hectares (7.4 sq km / 2.8 sq mi). It is filled with a wide variety of flora and fauna, including over 80 tree species.

The forest offers many recreational activities, such as hiking through its diverse landscapes. There are also two campsites within the woods for those wanting to stay and enjoy the area a bit longer.

Hengifoss Waterfall is one of the most impressive natural wonders in East Iceland. It stands at a towering 128 meters (420 ft) high, making it one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls!

From the car park, it’s a 1-hour hike on a well-marked trail to reach the falls. There is also a food truck directly opposite the parking area to help you fuel up before your walk.

The view from the base of the falls is incredible, with layers of striated basalt columns that form a unique backdrop to the cascading water. It’s also possible to get down close to the falls if you’re careful — just remember to take extra care when navigating around slippery rocks!

Laugarfell & Waterfall Circle hike

Hiking Waterfall Circle is definitely one of the best things to do in Eastern Iceland!

The Waterfall Circle is an 8 km (5 mi) hiking trail that starts and ends at Laugarfell , a mountain hut hotel in the Eastern highlands. The hike is absolutely unreal and relatively unknown — somehow, I didn’t come across a single other person!

Along the way, the trail passes five waterfalls and one stunning canyon. The landscapes are otherworldly and the views don’t stop the entire way. Once you’ve finished your hike, you can even soak in Laugarfell’s natural hot springs (the entrance fee costs 1,500 ISK/$10.50 USD).

To get there, you’ll need to drive 74 km (46 mi) southwest from Egilsstaðir. All but the last 2 km (1.2 mi) of the road are paved, but it shouldn’t be a problem for most cars in the summer months .

Stuðlagil Canyon in East Iceland is a breathtaking natural phenomenon that’s been thousands of years in the making! Formed by volcanic activity, its incredibly steep walls of basalt rock can reach up to 100 meters (328 ft) high. The canyon spans over 2 km (1.2 mi) along the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river and is also home to some of the country’s most stunning waterfalls.

Visiting Stuðlagil Canyon can make for an unforgettable experience, especially if you go down towards the water! There are several paths leading down into the canyon, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes with good grip as they can get slippery. In the spring, you’ll also need to be aware of nesting pink-footed geese.

East Iceland FAQ

How long should i spend in east iceland.

The answer to this question depends on your interests and the amount of time you have available. If you’re looking for a short break, anywhere from 3-5 days should be enough to explore some of East Iceland’s key attractions such as Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Vatnajökull National Park, and Stuðlagil Canyon. For those with more time available, I’d recommend spending at least one week in East Iceland so that you can really get off the beaten path and experience all that the region has to offer.

Is East Iceland worth visiting?

Yes, East Iceland is definitely worth visiting. The region has some of the most stunning scenery in all of Iceland, from the majestic glaciers and serene fjords to rugged mountains and pristine waterfalls. You’ll also find plenty of East Iceland attractions and outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, kayaking, and bird watching. Plus, there are numerous charming villages full of culture and history to explore as well!

What months can you see puffins in Iceland?

You can see puffins in Iceland in the summer months (May through early September). This is when over 8 million of the birds return to their yearly breeding grounds — that’s nearly 60% of the world’s entire Atlantic puffin population!

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East Iceland

As far as you can get (some 650km) from Reykjavík, Iceland’s impressively varied and sparsely populated east (called Austurland) doesn’t announce itself as loudly as other parts of the country, preferring subtle charms over big-ticket attractions. The Eastfjords is the area’s most wondrous destination – the scenery is particularly spectacular around the northern fjord villages, backed by sheer-sided mountains etched with waterfalls. If the weather’s fine, several days spent hiking here may be some of your most memorable in Iceland.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Hafnarhólmi

Five kilometres past the wee church is the photogenic small-boat harbour and islet of Hafnarhólmi, home to a large puffin colony. A staircase and viewing…

Steinasafn Petru

The wondrous assemblage at Petra's Stone Collection was a lifelong labour of love for Petra Sveinsdóttir (1922–2012). Inside her house, stones and…

Fólkvangur Neskaupstaðar

At the eastern end of town, where the road runs out, is this lovely nature reserve perfect for short strolls. Various paths run over boardwalks and past…

Rainbow Street

Seyðisfjörður

This street is supremely photogenic: a rainbow is painted on the pavement, and the Blue Church serves as a sweet backdrop. It features in many advertising…

Öxi Pass (Route 939)

At the head of Berufjörður, the 19km Öxi mountain pass (Rte 939) offers a summer short cut to drivers en route to or from Egilsstaðir. The pass cuts about…

Three collections are clustered together in one bright-red harbour front warehouse, known as ‘Museum House’. Tryggvasafn showcases a collection of…

Rockhounds will love the display of zeolites at this farm, now a natural monument and nature reserve 5km northwest of Djúpivogur. It's renowned for its…

Eggin í Gleðivík

Walk or drive down to the waterfront behind Langabúð and follow the road west to reach this intriguing public artwork: 34 oversized eggs along the jetty,…

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The Ultimate Guide To The East Fjords Iceland 2024

by Kev Shepherd

The East Fjords in Iceland are home to some of the most magical and remote locations in Iceland. Read our guide to help plan your secluded adventure.

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland then you may not have even considered venturing above and beyond the South East coast.

Why would you? Some of the best tourist hot spots, glaciers, geysers, lagoons, northern lights, mountains, waterfalls and hiking trails are easily accessible a short drive from the capital in Reykjavik.

Why would you travel 4+ hours away from all that to a remote, sparsely populated, intimidating area of land that, on face value, offers a lot less than the south?

I’ll tell you why.

You didn’t come to Iceland to wade through the crowds, queue up to see a waterfall and pay through your teeth for short tours and food.

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland in the summer then that is what you can expect on the south coast.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s well worth the visit but if that’s not what you’re looking for then the East Fjords in Iceland are your answer.

The East Fjords Iceland are a place where you can disappear into the nature this country has to offer. Considering only 3.2% of the entire population live in this region, you can understand the level of privacy and peace that you can expect on your visit.

If you’re into hiking, camping, seclusion and exploring eerie locations swamped in myth and mystery then read on and find out everything you can see, do and experience in the East Fjords.

Where Are The East Fjords Iceland?

Well, firstly they are on the east coast of Iceland. It may sound obvious but the Westman Islands are off the south coast so who knows anymore! The East Fjords are nestled in between Borgarfjörður Eystri in the north and Berufjörður in the south.

This covers a stretch of coastline around 100 – 140km long, depending on if you go by road or how the crow flies.

So, the East Fjords are not all that big. The distance between attractions and towns are usually short but beautiful.

In my opinion, this makes the East Fjords the perfect place for a road trip because you spend less time in the car and more time exploring but still get to do some absolutely incredible drives. See our complete guide to renting a 4×4 in Iceland here.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit the East Fjords Iceland is in June onwards. June is the start of the high season in Iceland so the prices do creep up significantly after this point, however, any time before June then you risk many of the trails and sights still being covered with heavy snow.

Any of the summer months are highly recommended. The East Fjords don’t tend to get too crazy busy at any time of the year so the crowds should never be an issue. The crazy long summer days and midnight sun will allow you to get the most out of your visit.

Winter is definitely not the time to visit this secret wonderland. Many of the paths and roads will be completely cut off and a lot of the East Fjords may even be completely inaccessible.

To put it into context, there is a village that is entirely cut off for 6-7 months of the year due to the snowfall.

Also, the main activities the East Fjords have to offer are hiking and exploring. Neither of these things will be possible in the winter months so it is not recommended to visit at this time.

East Fjords Iceland | Everything To See, Do & Explore!

Borgarfjörður eystri.

The East Fjords Iceland has a lot to offer but this may be the creme of the crop. I may actually struggle to put into words how ideal this small town is if you’re looking for that incredible perfect remote Icelandic experience.

It starts with a 70km drive from the town of Egilsstaðir. This drive weaves through the mountains and even has parts where you drive on a gravel road next to a cliff with no barriers. Sounds terrifying but it will only add to the incredible adventure that this small town has to offer.

Eventually, you come to a tiny seaside town with a population of only 100. But in this tiny remote town, you get over 150km of incredible hiking trails, beautiful accommodation, peace and serenity people only dream of and one of the largest puffin populations in Iceland.

I highly recommend getting down there for at least a couple of days to soak up one of the most genuine and authentic Iceland experiences you can get anywhere in the country.

I was extremely impressed with the website that this tiny town has dedicated entirely to itself. Definitely have a look as it will help you pick the best activities in and around this town to maximise the enjoyment of your stay.

Best Time To Go To Borgarfjörður Eystri

Any time from June onwards is a good time to visit . I recommend going in July as this means the roads have the highest chance of being ice and snow free which obviously makes it a lot safer.

The puffins are there from the middle of April so if you are going for them then this could be a good time to go as it will also be the least busy. In the last year, the town only got around 2000 visitors for the whole of summer so I doubt it will ever be too busy. Check out the complete guide to seeing the puffins of Iceland here!

Where To Stay At Borgarfjörður Eystri

There are a few hotels and guesthouses in the surrounding area and many of them have extremely high reviews.

However, the one place that really stands out from the others is Blabjorg Guesthouse . Close to all of the hiking trails and the puffin colony, it also features hot wooden hot tubs sitting with a beautiful view of the Fjord. I highly recommend staying here for your Borgarfjörður Eystri stay.

Check Out The Reviews Of Blabjorg Guesthouse Here

Seyðisfjörður

If Borgarfjörður Eystri above is famous for its natural attributes and incredible scenery then Seyðisfjörður is known for its incredible man-made beauty.

The town of Skaftfell, in Seyðisfjörður, is widely considered one of the most beautiful fishing villages in the whole of Iceland and it’s understandable why. The town is covered in beautiful brightly coloured wooden houses and is home to an incredible summertime art scene.

This location may be famous for its quirky artistic town but it doesn’t take away from its also incredible natural beauty. This is perhaps what makes Seyðisfjörður so unique.

It has everything a tourist would want. A vibrant family-friendly community that is immensely welcoming of tourists amidst a breathtaking backdrop of quintessential Icelandic scenery.

I recommend spending a night here to give yourself time to wander the streets and local hikes. If you’re looking for a place to stay then I highly recommend Hafaldan HI Hostel . It’s a decent price, in a decent location and has very good facilities.

Check Out The Reviews Of Hafaldan HI Hostel Here

The drive to Seyðisfjörður is another absolute beauty of a trip so if you’re in Iceland looking to have an epic road adventure then I recommend having Seyðisfjörður on your list.

Camping In The East Fjords

During summer, camping is one of the most common activities amongst the Icelandic people. Who can blame them?! Well, the East Fjords in Iceland have some of the most spectacular campsites where you can relax, have a bbq and a drink until the sun sets…. If it ever does!

If you do decide to go camping then remember this is still Iceland and it never really gets that warm. Bring a warm sleeping bag and warm clothing in case the temperature hits one of its summer lows.

I couldn’t possibly list all of the available campsites in the East Fjords as this would be tedious as well as not very informative. Visit Austurland has a very good page dedicated to some of the best camping spots in the East Fjords so I recommend taking a look there for some ideas.

Don’t plan your trip around ‘wild camping’. It is discouraged by Icelanders and is also very difficult to do, mainly because of the lack of shelter that trees would provide. It is also difficult to find a place that you are 100% sure is legal. There are so many well priced legal campsites in the East Fjords that I don’t think it is worth the risk.

Hallormsstaðaskógur Forest

If you’ve seen any pictures of Iceland then I guarantee you didn’t see any trees. As trees go, Iceland is a veritable desert! However, Hallormsstaðaskógur forest in the East Fjords Iceland makes up for it 10 fold.

If you are heading to the forest in June then you have to take part in the Skógardagurinn Mikli festival which takes place in amongst the trees of the forest.

Have a look at which weekend it is going to be on and get involved in the music, stalls, competitions and festive spirit. This would be absolutely ideal if you were travelling with kids.

If you are planning on camping the East Fjords in Iceland then book Hallormsstaðaskógur forest before you book anywhere else.

In my opinion, this is the best place to go camping in all of the East Fjords. The two locations available are Atlavík and Höfðavík . Both are very different so take a look at which one would better suit your needs.

There are 11 stunning hiking trails throughout the forest and you can pick up a map from Hotel Hallormsstadur .

Lagarfljót Lake & The Serpent

Adjacent to Hallormsstaðaskógur forest there is the huge lake Lagarfljót. If you are visiting the forest a really good place to stay is the Atlavík camping ground that is adjacent to the lake.

The lake itself is 25km long and has bridges at both ends. This makes for quite a nice little road trip around the lake if you have a nice summer afternoon free.

However, this is hardly why the lake is famous. It’s most well known for its very own mythical serpent, the Lagarfljótsormurinn. Very similar to the Loch Ness Monster, the Lagarfljótsormurinn is said to be a huge serpent that has occupied the lake for hundreds of years.

Whether you believe in the legends or not, this is a great place to take kids and capture their imaginations whilst having a nice peaceful hike around the gorgeous lake and its adjacent scenery.

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Hengifoss & Litlanesfoss Waterfalls

As with a lot of the activities in the East Fjords Iceland, Hengifoss waterfall is a hike from the car park. This could be one of the reasons why the East Fjords is less visited than the south.

Personally, I think it adds to the experience but if you are short on time then this could be an issue.

Hengifoss waterfall is the second highest waterfall in Iceland, standing at about 128m and is about a 2.5km hike from the car park to the falls. Halfway to Hengifoss, there is another beautiful waterfall called Litlanesfoss. Both waterfalls are definitely worth the hike so I recommend taking a camera to capture some epic shots.

Camera Tips For Waterfalls

If you are wanting to capture the quintessential moving water look people love when picturing waterfalls then you’ll need to change the setting on your camera manually because the automatic settings will not allow for this.

Set your camera to the shutter speed function (this should be marked simply as an S on the top or in the settings) and then set your shutter speed to 1 second (on the camera that will be shown as 1″ ).

Take a picture and have a look, this is your test shot. More often than not, this will produce the right amount of blur for a good picture, however, if you want more blur then increase the length of the shutter speed and for less blur decrease it.

You will NEED a tripod or place to put the camera for the shot. Even a surgeon can’t hand hold a 1-second shutter speed!

The perfect travel companion! The Panasonic Lumix LX10 fits easily into your pocket, captures beautiful 20.1MP images, records gorgeous 4K footage, and does this all through the brilliant 24-72mm Leica lens. Level up your travel photography today!

Mjóifjörður | Complete Isolation In The East Fjords

You thought some of the other fjords were isolated and peaceful?

Well, Mjóifjörður takes the grand prize by a long way. In the whole fjord, which is about 18km long, there are only 25 residents.

Even more incredibly, from October to May you can’t even drive to it as the road in is too treacherous. This means that the residents rely on a twice-weekly ferry coming in from Neskaupstaður.

Lastly, as if the first two things weren’t enough, tour buses do not run to this town as the gravel road is too steep for them to traverse. Don’t let me put you off though. A good 4×4 vehicle in the middle of summer and you will have absolutely no problems as long as you take it slow and steady.

It’s well worth the effort too as the fjord has waterfalls, myths, secluded lighthouse, small town, shipwreck and even small inlet that used to be used as a prison.

There is quite a nice guesthouse in the fjord called Sólbrekka Holiday Homes . If you are thinking of really losing yourself and getting off the grid then Mjóifjörður is the place for you.

Check Out The Reviews Of Solbrekka Holiday Homes Here

Hólmanes Peninsula

There is a fantastic little nature reserve situated on the Hólmanes Peninsula that you can easily stop by when travelling up Route 1 to the other attractions in the Eastfjords Iceland.

Jump off of Route 1 onto Route 92 and around 12km down route 92 you will come to the Hólmanes Peninsula and the entrance is by the side of the road.

The walk takes roughly 2 hours if you take it leisurely. The variety of birdlife, vegetation and spectacular views makes Hólmanes Peninsula an extremely worthwhile stop off whilst road tripping the East Fjords Iceland. If you’re really lucky, you might even stumble across a herd of wild reindeer!

Vattarnes Peninsula – A 50Km Road Trip Detour From Heaven

If you were road tripping the East Fjords in Iceland and you missed the Vattarnes Peninsula detour then this would be the biggest mistake you’d make in your trip.

Imagine this, a 50km gravel road circumnavigating the entire peninsula and its coastline, every second having incredible panoramic views of the ocean, back dropped by rolling hills and steep cliffs.

There are some nice places to park up along the 50km route and some of the more scenic areas are a great place to stop and have a picnic whilst soaking in the views. When you get to the Route 1 – Route 995 turning, don’t take the bypass up Route 1, you’ll miss some of the most spectacular scenery that the whole of the East Fjords has to offer.

Papey Island

Papey Island is a tiny island off of the east coast and is definitely worth a visit. Apart from the oldest wooden church in Iceland, Papey island does not have anything unique that you can’t do quite easily on the mainland. However, who the hell doesn’t want to zoom across on a little boat to a small green blob in the sea!

I’m not joking either. There is something a little more gratifying seeing the puffins and other birdlife knowing that you’re really in the middle of nowhere on a completely uninhabited island.

Boats leave from the small town of Djúpivogur on the mainland during the summer. If you are in the area then I recommend going across as it really makes for a special little summer afternoon.

How To See The Reindeer In The East Fjords Iceland

So you’ve done your research and you know Iceland is famous for its puffins, whales and seals.

But what about its wild herds of reindeer?! If you’re on a trip to see all of the best animals in Iceland then the reindeer of the East Fjords Iceland are a must-see.

I can’t tell you that there is one best place to see them as they are wild and they get around. However, it is only possible to see them in the East Fjords. I recommend just keeping your eyes open throughout your entire journey through the East Fjords as they may simply be on the side of the road or walking around near a hiking trail.

If you are looking to get some pictures then be very patient and slow. They are not like the puffins of Iceland at all and will run away if you get too close.

Stórurð is nestled in the far North East and is definitely one of the best hikes you can do in all of the East Fjords. There are actually a number of different trails you can take form the car park but be prepared for a good 8-hour hike.

A lot of people are rating the hike quite low because they did not realise that this is not a short walk for an afternoon.

You also do not need to be an experienced hiker as the trails have no technical difficulties. Just be prepared for quite a distance. There are a number of different trails to choose from but you can expect something around 14km give or take.

When you get there, I recommend researching the trail that you are thinking of taking so you do not get any surprises.

Best Time To Go To Stórurð

I recommend going to Stórurð from the middle of July – September. I highly recommend trying your best to visit Stórurð on a sunny clear day. The views you can get from this beautiful hike can be quite easily ruined by low clouds and fog.

If this is impossible then never fear! Even with less than perfect visibility, the hike is still very much recommended for any keen hikers.

Locations In The East Fjords Iceland

Recommended Packing List For Iceland

Regardless of the time of year you go, it’s going to be pretty cold. This list is specific to Iceland and we highly recommend having a look through it to see if you have everything we suggest. There is nothing worse than letting the cold ruin your trip.

If you are thinking of going into colder climates then you have to make sure you have a suitable jacket to go along for the ride. This ski jacket is waterproof and windproof which helps keep out the cold and a fleece lining which helps to keep in the warmth. The jacket is also extremely affordable compared to other brands meaning your comfort is no longer going to cost you an arm and a leg!

People often buy really good gloves, hats, boots, and jackets when they are going into colder climates but neglect the need for a good pair of waterproof/windproof trousers to go along with it. These brilliant fleece-lined trousers will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable for those long days in the freezing cold.

You can spend an insane amount of money on hiking boots if you want (trust me, I have) but, unless you're planning on travelling to the Arctic Circle, you simply don't have to break the bank. These amazingly diverse and adaptable boots by Columbia will handle everything you throw at them, whilst keeping your feet dry, warm, and pain-free!

If you really feel the cold but already have a decent jacket and insulated trousers , then you have to check out these fleece-lined thermal long johns and top base layer. These will fit under your outer clothes and give a massive increase to your warmth whilst paired with other quality winter wear. A must-have for someone who struggles with the cold.

If you need a pair of no-nonsense, warm, waterproof, and windproof gloves that will work with your touch devices then we highly recommend checking out these gloves. I recommend getting slightly larger than you think as the sizing is on the small size.

If you're going to be wearing boots, especially in colder climates, then you need to grab yourself a decent set of cold-weather socks. These thermal socks from HOT FEET don't break the bank and will keep your feet warm in some of the coldest weather. You also get 8 pairs!

A gorgeous 100% Icelandic wool hand-knitted hat to keep your head warm in the coldest situations. It would make a perfect gift/souvenir for anyone who is travelling to Iceland or has travelled to Iceland and forgotten to pick one up when they were there!

Cotton is the way to go to keep you warm on cold nights staring up at the beautiful starry sky, surrounded by ice and snow. This is from Amazon Basics so you're not paying a premium for a famous brand but you're still getting that thick cotton quality.

Jade prefers wearing ear muffs because it gives her more options to style her hair whilst also keeping her little ears warm. If that sounds like something you might struggle with then check out these fantastic ear warmers that come in a variety of colours!

The Best Accommodation In The East Fjords Iceland

There is an amazing amount of gorgeous accommodation options in the East Fjords Iceland. However, I have narrowed it down to 5 top picks.

These 5 are spread out from the south to the north so if you are making your way slowly up the East Fjords then these would be perfect to make it a perfect relaxing trip.

If you’re on a budget then look no further than Braz in the south of the East Fjords. You’ll be treated to some very nice food and some great views. Use this as a one night stay after travelling the long distance from Reykjavik in your hire car.

Check Out The Reviews Of Braz here

Mjoeyri Travel Holiday Homes

Just past the Hólmanes Peninsula nature walk there lies a small town called Eskifjörður. The Mjoeyri Travel Holiday Homes are an absolute peach to stay at and offer some fantastic views whilst you bathe in a hot tub inside of an old boat!

Check Out The Reviews Of Mjoeyri Travel Holiday Homes

Langahlid Cottages & Hafaldan HI Hostel

Langahlid Cottages is in the small town of Seyðisfjörður that is one of the top places to visit on this list. The cottage comes in a small secluded location along the coastline and a hot tub overlooking the views.

Check Out The Reviews Of Langahlid Cottages Here

It’s going to cost a little more so if you’re still looking to save money then I recommend staying in the Hafaldan HI Hostel instead, a small hostel in the same village.

Blabjorg Guesthouse

This has got to be the perfect end to your trip through the East Fjords. The hotel has a bar, restaurant and wooden hot tubs overlooking the fjord. What more can I say really?

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should i visit the east fjords iceland.

The East Fjords are seldom visited by tourists as they tend to stick to the south coast near Reykjavik. However, the East Fjords have some absolutely spectacular scenery on offer so if you have a bit more time and are looking for something a little different then the East Fjords should be near the top of your list.

Are The East Fjords Iceland Easily Accessible?

After May and before October, the East Fjords are easily accessible. However, during the winter months, some of the towns and fjords are cut off from the main road. I don’t recommend visiting in these colder, more treacherous months.

How Long Should I Spend In The East Fjords Iceland?

You can quite easily see a lot of the best sights in a couple of days, however, I recommend spending at least 5 days in the East Fjords to really explore the hiking trails and discover the tiny towns that the region has to offer.

How Far Are The East Fjords Iceland From Reykjavik?

The East Fjords start in the southern town of Berufjörður and it takes over 7 hours to drive non stop from Reykjavik.

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The Westfjords

Reykjavík - The Capital

Reykjanes Peninsula

Discover the wonders of East Iceland, home to the country's largest forest, lush farmlands and an assortment of streams and mountains. Thanks to the East's fjords and their natural harbours, a variety of picturesque fishing villages border the coast.

Visit East Iceland - Austurland - is the official destination marketing and management organization for the eastern part of Iceland. Find out more about the area on their website.

Fantastic scenery

There is so much to explore in East Iceland. Iceland's biggest rhyolite formations directly accessible from an inhabited area are those around Borgarfjörður Eystri, while impressive magma chambers filled with colourful mineral deposits can be seen and visited along the eastern coast. In the summer months, the east of Iceland becomes a creative hub for artists and young people from around Iceland and abroad, as a variety of music and art festivals have been popping up and expanding steadily in recent years.

The hiking and riding possibilities are also numerous, including across extensive but well-mapped uninhabited areas. Winter tourism, for instance skiing or driving on snow, is also important.

ENJOYING EAST ICELAND

Seyðisfjörður is the landing place for the Smyril Line ferry from Europe, and home to a vibrant art scene emerging to the backdrop of a 19th century village. Indeed, the East has a rich artistic history, as the landscape in the region is truly a rich palette. One of Iceland's most beloved artists, the painter Jóhannes Sveinsson Kjarval, grew up in the town of Borgarfjörður eystri, where he created some of his most memorable work and where a museum now commemorates his life.

The East is also home to several interesting arts and music festival throughout the year. In the southeast, the Vatnajökull Glacier—Europe's largest—is an imposing, spectacular sight.

Egilsstaðir is the largest town in East Iceland. There are daily flights from the domestic airport in Reykjavík to Egilsstaðir. It is also possible to drive from Reykjavík to Egilsstaðir and also the general Eastern region of the country. In fact, driving to East Iceland provides an exciting opportunity as one can drive through either South Iceland or North Iceland to get to this unique part of the country.

Find out more on VISIT EAST ICELAND

Get travel ideas.

Experience some of Iceland's amazing routes and destinations in the East.

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Eastfjords Travel Guide

Out of the country's total population of 335,000 people, only an estimated 3.2% live in East Iceland. Locally referred to as "Austurland" or "Austfirðir", the whole area covers 22,721 square kilometers (8,773 square miles). Explore the region on a tour of the East Fjords . If you want to take the time to travel around this region, it's a good idea to book a hotel in the Eastfjords to use as your base to explore.

Nature in East Iceland

East Iceland has many narrow fjords, surrounded by steep cliffs. Fishing villages sit in most of them.

Often overlooked by visitors, the East Fjords represent the very best of what Iceland has to offer. Including fantastic scenery, remote fishing villages, sparkling lakes, dense forests and traditional farms.

The region boasts the sunniest weather in the country, as well as some of Iceland’s most well-known and loved wildlife.

This region is especially famous for its herds of wild reindeer. It is the only place in the country that reindeer live. Initially brought over for farming, the industry was never lucrative, and they have roamed free ever since.

Migratory birds live both inland and in the cliffs in summer, including the elusive puffin.

Many rivers run through the district and by their estuaries, colonies of seals reside. The fertile waters also provide food to whales and dolphins, making them visible even from the side of the shore.

The impressive mountain Snӕfell (not to be confused with Snæfellsnes Peninsula in the West of Iceland) is Iceland's highest free-standing peak and sits in the East. Near here is the highland oasis of Eyjabakkar , one of the world's most significant nesting places for the pink-footed goose.  

Vatnajökull , Europe's largest glacier, stretches to the borders of Eastern Iceland and is so large it is visible from many places throughout the region.

Breathtaking coastlines and the promise of tranquil solitude also bring visitors to East Iceland. It would make an ideal stop on your ring road adventure.

​​ There are plenty of things to do in Iceland’s East Fjords. If you enjoy pleasant walks through nature, Borgarfjörður Eystri is a hiker’s paradise. Local folklore tells that this area is home to elves and Iceland’s ‘hidden folk’.

There are also incredible basalt rock formations in Studlagil Canyon . Though the canyon requires a hike to reach it, it’s a genuinely astonishing place for geologists and nature lovers alike.

The East of Iceland is also home to some beautiful waterfalls, such as Litlanesfoss and Hengifoss . 

Egilsstaðir

East Iceland has only a few towns with vital services. The main one of these, considered to be the capital of the region, is Egilsstaðir .

Egilsstaðir has restaurants, museums, shops, petrol stations and an array of accommodation options to suit all budgets. It is also home to an airport, meaning those with limited time or without a driving licence can easily reach it from Reykjavík .

​​ This small, idyllic town in the East of Iceland is famous for many reasons. The most popular things to do near Egilsstadir include hiking, visiting a swimming pool or Spa (Vok Baths is particularly special), visiting waterfalls, and exploring the quaint town. It also boasts a famous Heritage Museum. This gives visitors an insight into the lives of East Icelanders in days gone by.

​​The area is packed with fantastic cultural landmarks, such as Hallormsstaðarskógur , the country’s largest forest. This can be found just on the eastern shore of Lake Lagarfljót . Look closely enough at the lake, and you may spot a worm monster in the water.

Hallormsstaðaskógur covers 740 hectares. It is made up of over eighty different species of trees from all over the world. The rate it has grown at is astonishing, considering that in 1910 it was merely a small group of trees within a protected paddock.

Egilsstaðir also has an annual electronic music festival, Hringrás; the Orsteiti Town Festival; and a jazz festival.

For something a touch more relaxing, one could also take a soothing dip in the swimming pool at Selárlaug, near Bakkafjörður . The pool is surrounded by mountains and beautiful views over the fjord and is considered one of the most authentic experiences available in the region.

In the East Fjords in winter, you’ll have an excellent chance to see the Northern Lights from such remote areas as Egilsstaðir, weather permitting of course.

Seyðisfjörður

Those visiting Iceland by ferry from mainland Europe or the Faroe Islands will make port at Seyðisfjörður . The town has a small population of 700 people. It is famous for its ornate wooden architecture, Scandinavian influence and historical herring-fishing industry. Much of the timber used to develop Seyðisfjörður was shipped over by Norway ready-made in the 18th century.

In the town centre lies a rainbow-painted street, which leads to a famous blue church.

Seyðisfjörður is surrounded by pounding waterfalls, flat-top mountains and serene hiking trails, complemented by gorgeous panoramas over the adjacent fjord. 

Other activities available from or near Seyðisfjörður include scuba diving, skiing, sea angling, paragliding and horseback riding. There are also several cultural exhibits to visit. These include the Fjarðarsel Power Plant Museum and Skaftfell Centre for Visual Arts.

Fáskrúðsfjörður

Fáskrúðsfjörður is a village with a population of just 700. It is nestled in the heart of the East Fjords and has a very distinct culture all of its own. 

Its first settlers were French fisherman, and their legacy lives on in this small town. They first arrived in the mid-1800s. The Frenchmen built houses, a hospital and a harbour, which they considered to be all they would need for their time in Iceland.

They were quite settled here in this small coastal village. However, in the First World War, many Frenchmen were called into duty in defence of France. The town soon emptied of men. However, their heritage lives on.

It’s possible to visit the french hospital, where the full story of these French settlers can be learned. It has recently been renovated and stands as a hotel and a museum. 

​​ As a nod to the village’s founding fathers, the town continues to display signs in both Icelandic and French. It is also linked to a town in France called Gravelines. 

Here they hold two parties every year to celebrate their connection to Iceland. The first is in spring when fisherman would set off to fish in Iceland. The second in autumn, as these men were returning to French shores.

In Fáskrúðsfjörður, the town celebrates its Frenchified connection in the height of summer. July is peaking fishing season, and so the celebrations tended to coincide with this.

For anglers visiting the area, fishing is readily accessible in the nearby Dalsá river.

Visitors are also advised to hike the path along Gilsá river towards the waterfall Gilsárfoss, where they can walk behind the cascading water.  ​

Breiðdalsvík

Breiddalsvik is located south of Fáskrúðsfjörður. It is a small village with a population of just 140 people. This is an excellent location for people who enjoy hiking, and it’s a great spot to look out for wild reindeer, who are often spotted roaming the nearby area.

Visitors can also enjoy the black sand beach of the charming fishing village of Breiddalsvik . It’s possible to take a road trip to the longest and widest valley in Iceland, Breiðdalur. ​​

Papey Island

Papey (“Friar’s Island”) is an uninhabited island located off the east coast of Iceland. The island is approximately 2 square kilometres (0.8 square miles). Its highest point measures 58 metres (190 feet) above sea level. Boat trips to Papey depart every summer from Djúpivogur .

The island is named after Gaelic monks (“The Papar”). These monks are thought to have inhabited the island long before the Norse settlement. Papey was lived on from the 10th century until the year 1966 when the island’s residents finally moved to the mainland.

For centuries, Papey’s residents had supported themselves on fishing for shark, hunting seals and puffins, and tending to their farmsteads. In later years, the residents would also harvest down from Eider Ducks living on the island.

Today, visitors to Papey can enjoy the large puffin colonies that still live on the island. It’s also interesting to see the remnants of the former settlement including a lighthouse, church and weather station. These all still exist much as they did in 1966. ​​

Culture of East Iceland

One of the central points of culture in the East is the cultural and historical centre, Skriðuklaustur , in the Fljótsdalshérað district. In the Middle Ages, a monastery stood on this site. From then on it became the region’s religious centre. In the 20th century, the Icelandic author Gunnar Gunnarsson made it his home.

Gunnar wrote many masterpieces, such as Aðventa (The Good Shepherd), Svartfugl (The Black Cliffs) and Saga Borgaraettarinnar (The Saga of the One-Eyed Guest). He also wrote the autobiographical novel, Fjallkirkjan, which has been given a variety of different titles once translated, including The Church on the Mountain, Ships in the Sky and The Night and the Dream.

Festivals play a significant role in the culture of the East today. Seyðisfjörður hosts the annual music festival LungA. The settlement of Neskaupsstaður also hosts two highly popular annual festivals, Neistaflug and Eistnaflug.

East Iceland is also home to the Kárahnjúkar hydroelectric power station , which provides many of the towns with energy. The construction of this has led to a hot debate on Iceland’s ecological footprint. The debate continues today.

Popular Tours to Eastfjords

Amazing 10 day game of thrones self drive tour of iceland with filming locations, scenic 3 hour glacier jeep sightseeing tour on vatnajokull, off-road 2 hour super jeep sightseeing tour of the streiti coast with transfer from breiddalsvik, attractions nearby.

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East Fjords Iceland: The Best Things to Do in East Iceland

Posted on July 5, 2021

Categories Blog , Europe , Iceland , Travel Guides

There’s nothing like the dramatic, rugged coastline of the East Fjords Iceland. We spent two weeks in Iceland driving around the entire Ring Road, the main road that encircles the island. Depending on the amount of time you have, you can easily spend a few days exploring East Iceland.

Justin and I started our day on a zodiac boat tour exploring the glacial lagoons of Jokulsarlon . Then, we drove towards the main town of Egilsstaðir. Compared to the south of Iceland , you’ll notice way less tourists as you visit the East Fjords. However, the scenery isn’t any less stunning. It’s quite spectacular.

This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Renting a Car in Iceland

You’ll definitely want to  rent a car in Iceland  to drive around the country at your own pace. You’ll have the most freedom and can go anywhere you like. Iceland doesn’t have any trains, and the typical tourist bus routes don’t extend out to the East Fjords Iceland. Renting a car gives you the freedom to go wherever you like, whenever you like.

As it never really got dark outside when we visited in June, we could extend our road trip until late at night and keep enjoying the daylight! That really made driving for longer hours much easier. You can  compare car rental rates  for an Iceland road trip to get the best deal.

When you’re visiting Iceland, the journey truly is the destination. Some of these photographs were taken from the car as we drove through East Iceland. Justin and I stopped anywhere we wished along the way.

Driving Around the East Fjords Iceland

For lengthy amounts of time, we didn’t see another soul on the road. It was just the two of us and the open highway. We were greeted by gorgeous views as we zipped around rugged mountains, weaving in and out of deep fjords. There are also lots of black sand beaches in East Iceland. They are far less visited than the ones on the south coast of Iceland.

In many instances, the ocean was to the right, and steep cliffs were to the left. The mountains truly left us in awe. They towered above the road, causing massive shadows even on this bright and sunny day. Iceland is such a magnificent, yet lonely place.

Even though we didn’t encounter many people, there certainly wasn’t a lack of sheep. In early June, sheep were roaming all over the countryside. Every adult sheep had at least one or two babies by their side. It’s always a good idea to pay attention to the road, even though it’s easy to be distracted by the fascinating scenery.

The sheep tend to wander where they like, including across the highway. We had to slow down for the sheep on quite a few occasions, waiting for them to cross the road. I swear, I spent half my time squealing in delight at the adorable lambs. Too cute.

Views From the Ring Road in East Iceland

If you follow Route 1 in the East Fjords, you’ll encounter many of the spectacular views from our photos. I can’t tell you exactly where some of the pictures were taken, but they’re mostly all from the Ring Road.

East Fjords Road Trip: Stay on Route 1 or Take Route 939?

Here’s a collection of photographs from our travels around the East Fjords Iceland. We stuck to Route 1 for our entire ride, until we reached Egilsstaði r. There was a route that looked like a shortcut on the map (Route 939), once we passed Djúpivogur .

We were warned that it wasn’t exactly a shortcut as the terrain was much bumpier. Even though there were some gravel sections of the Ring Road in the East Fjords, we were happy with our decision to take the scenic route (which may have been faster, in the end).

The East Fjords of Iceland were home to some of our favorite views, although we truly enjoyed navigating and discovering the whole country. One of the best aspects of visiting Iceland was the complete lack of planning we did from day to day. It isn’t necessary to plan each and every moment in East Iceland.

What we did plan: our general route and accommodations. You’ll want to plan where to stay each night ahead of time because places do book up, especially during the busier summer months. With that said, we had lots of free time to stop wherever we pleased on our journey. You aren’t quite sure what you’ll see around every bend. Visiting Iceland is all about exploring nature and the great outdoors.

Best Things to Do in East Iceland

While some of the most wonderful things to do in the East Fjords of Iceland are best left unplanned, here are some great stops to make along the way. There are lots of little towns and tiny villages featuring unique attractions.

Djupivogur and Papey Island

The town of Djupivogur is the southernmost town in East Iceland, and it’s the place to visit if you’re looking to get to Papey Island. It has a cute harbor with lots of little boats, and you’ll be able to see the mountain called Búlandstindur in the distance.

If you love public art, you can check out the work called Eggin í Gleðvík by Icelandic artist, Sigurður Guðmundsson. There are 34 eggs lining the coastline. Djupivogur is a top birdwatching destination, and the 34 eggs represent the 34 kinds of birds in this region.

Most people come through Djúpivogur to reach Papey Island. Papey Island is the largest island in the East Fjords and it’s home to the oldest wooden church in Iceland. You also might spot some puffins and other birds living on this uninhabited island.

Breidalsvik: A Quaint Fishing Village

Breiðdalsvík is a tiny coastal village (population: 139!) with brilliant ocean views. It’s also surrounded by towering mountains that are over 1000 meters high. While this is a very small town, there are a couple of things to check out while you’re there.

First, Breiðdalsvík has its own craft brewery, Beljandi Brewery. Sample a pint or two on a cozy couch, or you might play some darts or pool. For coffee lovers, visit the Kaupfjelagið Art and Craft Cafe that’s right next door. There’s also an old harbor, black sand beaches, and you might spot some wild reindeer if you’re lucky.

Faskrudsfjordur and Vattarnes Peninsula

Fáskrúðsfjörður is the easternmost village in Iceland, and it’s a historic trading post. In the past, the town formed a close relationship with France, and even many of the street signs are in French. The town once had a French hospital, a French chapel, a French consul, and nowadays, there is a French museum.

Driving around the Vattarnes peninsula is a treat. The scenery is dramatic and brilliant, like most places in the East Fjords of Iceland. To navigate the Vattarnes peninsula, you’ll need to take a detour off Route 1 and drive on Route 955 until you link back up with the Ring Road.

Stefánsbúd: A Scenic Lookout

Prior to November 2017, Route 1 (the Ring Road) traveled over the Breiðdalsheiði plateau between Breiðdalsvík and Egilsstaðir. Route 1 now follows the coast entirely, and this road was renamed to Route 95.

This road is fine for most seasons, but it can be treacherous in the winter as it ventures up a mountain with steep turns. We passed Stefansbud, a scenic lookout point, on our trip as it was part of Route 1. If you’re interested in seeing the views from up top, you’ll need to take Route 95 nowadays.

There’s also some signage showing the history of the region as there’s evidence of an ancient roadway here. There’s a little red house and some amazing scenery from the top of the mountain.

Egilsstadir: The Main Town of the East Fjords

Egilsstaðir isn’t exactly a tourist destination, but it’s a main hub for bus transportation. If you’re driving, you’ll likely venture through here more than once on your way to reach other places.

For instance, we drove through Egilsstadir to reach our accommodations, we drove here to get to Seydisfjordur, and we also drove through the town when heading north. You might consider basing yourself in Egilsstadir as it’s a convenient spot. There are also grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, and lots of accommodations.

Seydisfjordur: An Artsy Seaside Town

Seydisfjordur Iceland is one of the sweetest little towns. There are little houses lining the idyllic waterfront and mountainous landscape. We wandered around here, snapped photos, went into shops and cafes, and checked out the iconic blue church.

The town even has its own waterfall, Gufufoss, and it’s right on the edge of town. You can also use the town as a base for hiking trips, kayaking trips, and more. For those looking to visit this adorable Icelandic town, I have a fantastic guide to visiting Seydisfjordur to help you plan your trip.

Lagarfljót and Iceland’s “Loch Ness Monster”

Did you know that Iceland has its own version of the Loch Ness Monster? The Lagarfljótsormurinn is a mythical serpent who has lived in the lake, Lagarfljót, for many years. Whether you believe in the monster or not, this lake is stunning. It’s 25km long and it often has perfect reflections of the mountains and pretty scenery.

Hallormsstadhaskogur: The Biggest Forest in Iceland

You won’t find many trees or forests in Iceland. It’s more famous for its desolate landscapes. But, in the East Fjords Iceland, you can visit the Hallormsstaðaskógur National Forest. There are several hiking trails if you’re looking for a unique experience in Iceland that you won’t find anywhere else in the country.

Only 2% of Iceland is covered with forest, and Hallormsstaðaskógur has been preserved since 1905. There are also two campsites at the national forest. If you happen to be visiting in June, check out the festival, Skógardagurinn (Forest Day). It takes places in the woods and there’s live music, art exhibitions, and cultural activities.

Hengifoss: One of Iceland’s Highest Waterfalls

Hengifoss is the second highest waterfall in Iceland (128 meters high) and one of the best waterfalls to visit in the East Fjords. It will take you about an hour to reach it from the car park (2.5km walk), but it’s worth the trek. There is gorgeous scenery throughout the hike, including a second smaller waterfall, Litlanesfoss.

Borgarfjordur Eystri: See Puffins in East Iceland

If you’re visiting Iceland between mid-May and mid-August, you might be able to spot some puffins. Puffins are the most adorable little birds, and there are millions of them living in Iceland. Borgarfjörður Eystri is one of the best places to spot puffins, other than the Latrabjarg Cliffs in the Westfjords. Borgarfjordur also has lots of trails for hikers, and it’s such a picturesque place no matter where you turn in all seasons.

Map of Places to Visit in the East Fjords

Want to see all of these places in the East Fjords of Iceland on a map? Here are all of the towns and places to visit in East Iceland displayed visually on a map.

Want to see more photos of East Iceland?

View all of our travel photography in one place! You can browse and buy any of our pictures in the form of canvas prints, things for the home, and more!

Where to Stay in the East Fjords Iceland

Justin and I spent one night at the  Hengifoss Guesthouse  (formerly known as Fljótsdalsgrund Guesthouse). We loved staying here. It’s truly a hidden gem of a hotel that’s perfect for the East Iceland portion of your road trip.

Our room had everything we needed: a private bathroom, a full kitchenette, a large bed, a couch, and free parking. We cooked our dinner here and relaxed for the rest of the evening very comfortably. The kitchenette had a fridge, a stove top, a coffee maker, a microwave, dishes, cutlery, pots and pans.

There was also one gigantic main room with couches and a dining space. When we stayed at Hengifoss Guesthouse, we were actually the only guests (even though there are so many rooms here!). We felt so lucky to have the entire place to ourselves. It was so nice, quiet, and peaceful.

BOOK YOUR STAY  |  READ MORE REVIEWS

More Places to Stay in East Iceland

It’s possible that you’ll choose to stay in a different town or village in the East Fjords of Iceland. There are lots of fantastic accommodations to fit every budget. Browse the map below to check out hotels and vacation rentals that are available with your travel dates.

Need Travel Insurance? You should never leave home without travel insurance! Check out the best rates to make sure you’re covered in case of an emergency or accident.

As you can see, you’re not going to want to leave the East Fjords off your Iceland travel bucket list. It’s often overlooked, but it’s not to be missed.

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

Board in the World

Monday 26th of July 2021

Iceland is one of those places we've wanted to visit for a long time and just haven't had the chance to. Thank you for this post, it's put Iceland back on our radar again. Might be time to actually pull the trigger and book something for the near future. Great post! Thank you!

Friday 30th of July 2021

That's wonderful! I hope you have a really great time whenever you end up planning your trip :)

Tuesday 9th of February 2021

Stunning landscape, so unique. Great pictures brought back memories of traveling through this amazing island!

Thanks, Steve! I'm glad it brought back great memories for you! We loved it there, too.

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in august 2024.

Late summer is generally marked by hot days and the desire to squeeze in one more vacation. That's why U.S. News evaluated attractions, events and weather (among other factors) to bring you this list of the best places to visit in August. From mountain reprieves to lake getaways , there's a destination on this ranking for every traveler to enjoy. Vote below to help determine next year's list.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Vancouver, canada, masai mara national reserve, kluane national park and reserve, outer banks, white mountains, coeur d'alene.

Fiji is an excellent place to visit in August. Although this month falls within Fiji's cooler, drier season, daytime temperatures commonly sit in the low 80s, so you can spend the bulk of your vacation sunbathing on its white sand beaches and swimming in its vibrant blue water. Plus, several of the country's 333 islands – including Taveuni, the Mamanucas and the Yasawas – offer ample opportunities for water sports like surfing and scuba diving. The rich Fiji culture also features all kinds of unique traditions, such as kava and firewalking ceremonies.

When it comes to summer vacations, why settle for one lake when you can visit two? Interlaken – a scenic Swiss town whose name means between lakes – is set in an idyllic spot between the dazzling lakes Thun and Brienz and surrounded by mountains. August temperatures in the mid-70s will allow you to take in the area's natural beauty while hiking, boating or paragliding, though you'll want to pack some rain gear for occasional wet weather. What's more, if you plan your visit around Aug. 1, you'll be able to participate in the area's Swiss National Day celebration, which includes bonfires, a folk festival and a parade.

While a case can be made for a quieter shoulder-season trip, Lake Como is in its prime at the height of summer. Visiting during the high season may mean more tourists and higher room rates, but you'll be able to take in the lakeside towns, villas and beaches at their most lustrous. Take a boat cruise across the lake to stroll through the blooming gardens of iconic villas like Villa Balbianello. Sample peak produce at open-air markets or freshly caught fish in the many dining venues with a view. Or simply see and be seen on one of the area's beaches or lakeside pools.

A trip to Rocky Mountain National Park in August will ensure almost all trails will be accessible and the weather will be pleasant, so you'll have every opportunity to take in the park's mountainous beauty. Wildflowers dot the meadows and bighorn sheep are commonly seen this time of year, too. Popular hikes and vistas become busy this time of year, and you'll need to reserve a timed entry permit available on July 1, but you can easily find quieter options among the park's 355 miles of trails. Combat the crowds by arriving early in the day and taking the park's shuttles instead of driving.

Vancouver, the most populous city in British Columbia, is a vibrant destination that offers something for all visitors. As one of the driest, warmest months (think: temperatures in the low 70s), August is a superb time to take it all in. Thrill-seekers can cross the Capilano Suspension Bridge or hike the grueling Grouse Grind (both just north of the city), while those who prefer a more leisurely outdoor experience can take a Vancouver Harbour cruise or relax on some of the city's beaches. Vancouver Pride Festival also takes place early in the month and features a parade and performances to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community.

The Mediterranean island of Cyprus has a lot to offer beyond its beaches, including a myth-laden history, but a visit during one of the hottest months of the year will make its sandy stretches look pretty enticing. Sun seekers can bask under cloudless skies, and when the temperatures get too warm (think: 90 degree averages), visitors can cool off by Jet Skiing, swimming and paddleboarding. Later, beach bums and water lovers alike will want to treat themselves to some fresh Cypriot cuisine paired with local wine (including some of the oldest named wine in the world).

August brings some of the warmest temperatures of the year to Montenegro, as well as throngs of travelers looking to bask on this Balkan country's beaches. Montengro's coastline on the Adriatic Sea and its inlets boasts scenic towns like Budva and Kotor, where you'll find charming old towns and blissful stretches of sand. To cool off and escape the crowds, retreat to the country's mountainous interior to hike in destinations like Durmitor National Park and Biogradska Gora National Park.

Kenya's Masai Mara National Reserve is one of Africa's most frequented safari destinations , especially in August when wildlife viewing opportunities are superb. August is usually a great time to catch the Great Migration, an annual journey by more than 2 million wildebeest, zebras and other animals from Tanzania's Serengeti National Park into Masai Mara. What's more, the reserve is a year-round haven for additional animal species, including the big five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffaloes), earning it a reputation as one of Africa's most diverse areas.

Head to Kluane National Park and Reserve in Canada's Yukon region if you want to enjoy an unconventional summer vacation. At this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll discover the world's largest nonpolar icefield and Canada's highest mountain, Mount Logan. Sign up for a flightseeing tour to view Kluane's glaciers from the air or take advantage of the mild, incredibly long summer days by exploring the park on foot. A boat ride around Kathleen Lake or a rafting excursion down the Alsek River are also fun ways to admire your surroundings.

America's Finest City is warm and dry in August, giving you ample opportunities to soak up some sun. If you're eager to spend time at the beach, you'll find 70 miles of coastline  ideal for everything from surfing to swimming to paddleboarding. Away from the shore, there's Balboa Park, where you can admire beautiful architecture, check out various museums and explore the world-renowned San Diego Zoo . Plus, San Diego is home to an exceptional dining scene and a plethora of live music venues to round out your trip.

Summer is peak season in this Croatian town, so you'll likely rub elbows with other travelers during an August visit. However, Rovinj's beauty will more than make up for the influx of tourists. In August, you can comfortably walk along the car-free cobblestone streets of Rovinj's Old Town thanks to daytime temperatures in the 70s and 80s. This month is also a great time to explore Grisia Street, which hosts an open-air art exhibition in August. If you need a break from the town's throngs of people, take a day trip to one of 14 nearby islands.

Plan an Outer Banks vacation in August to enjoy toasty beach weather (think: average highs in the mid-80s) and fun festivals like the Outer Banks Watermelon Festival and the Outer Banks Pirate Festival. These North Carolina barrier islands are ideal for all kinds of beach activities, including sailing, surfing and sunbathing. Plus, some of them are rich in history. Head to Kill Devil Hills to visit Wright Brothers National Memorial (where the famous pilots took their first flight), or venture to Roanoke Island to check out Roanoke Island Festival Park's exhibits about what life was like in the 16th century.

Trade your ski poles for a hiking stick and visit New Hampshire's White Mountains in summertime, when the area's gorges, bike trails and more than 100 waterfalls are at their most lush. Action-seekers can climb Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast, where they'll be rewarded with views of five states. Meanwhile, those looking for a more easygoing summer afternoon can go for a scenic drive or take in the views with a cocktail in hand on the terrace of Omni Mount Washington Resort . With August averages in the 60s and 70s, the weather will be ripe for any outdoor adventure.

Curacao is the perfect destination for those seeking a late summer Caribbean getaway thanks to its location outside the hurricane belt. Sustained daytime temperatures in the high 80s and low 90s mean you'll likely spend most of your vacation lounging on the beach or swimming past marine life, coral reefs and shipwrecks while scuba diving. But the charming, colorful Dutch colonial architecture found in the UNESCO-certified capital – Willemstad – is worth exploring, too. Plus, with fewer mega resorts and more boutique resorts and bed-and-breakfast establishments, Curacao has a more relaxed feel than other Caribbean destinations and is a great place to reset.

With festivals, prime weather and outdoor activities galore, Coeur d'Alene is the perfect destination for a summer send-off. This northern Idaho city boasts easily accessible golf courses (including one with a unique floating green), bike paths and parks, while its eponymous 26-mile lake is ideal for boating and fishing come August. The city ushers in the month with popular events like the Coeur d'Alene Street Fair and Taste of Coeur d'Alene, which showcase local shops, breweries and crafts. Coeur d'Alene also caters to a variety of budgets, with accommodation options ranging from campsites to cabins to amenity-filled resorts.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Portland, ME

Hot Springs, AR

Petrified Forest National Park

Okanagan Valley

Golden Isles

Faroe Islands

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Enjoy A Breezy And Beautiful Summer Weekend At These Affordable East Coast Getaway Destinations

It’s no secret that the East Coast is one of the best places to vacation over the summer.

Unlike some other parts of the U.S. that can be scorching hot, the East Coast offers a more comfortable summer experience with its bearable temperatures.

I may sound biased, as I am an East Coast girl born and raised, but the East Coast, with its stunning beaches and picturesque landscapes, has beautiful locations that get nice and breezy over the summer, making for a perfect, not-too-hot summer day.

However, there are certain locations on the East Coast that can be very expensive. Therefore, you need to do a little research on the ones that will be better for your budget.

If you’re located on the West Coast or Midwest or in the South looking for a vacation spot, here are some budget-friendly ones for you!

The Catskills

Instead of planning an expensive trip to New York City this summer, consider the budget-friendly option of upstate New York.

Towns near the Catskill Mountains offer not only natural beauty but also affordable prices. You can swim in natural settings, go on hikes, and explore cute downtown areas.

Niagara Falls

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These Are The 10 Most Unique Places To Visit On The East Coast

• Discover hidden gems and escape the crowds at Ocala National Forest, where you can explore crystal-clear springs and encounter incredible wildlife.
• Experience the stunning beauty of Franconia Notch State Park in New Hampshire, with its breathtaking waterfalls and mountain vistas.
• Visit Assateague Island for a unique beach getaway, where wild horses roam freely, and you can enjoy activities like swimming, fishing, and birdwatching.

With its stunning natural landscapes, historic small towns, and an abundance of cultural attractions, the East Coast of the United States offers no shortage of unique and memorable destinations for travelers to explore . From the rocky cliffs of Maine to the white sand beaches of Florida , there are endless opportunities for adventure and discovery. The East Coast is also home to some of the nation's earliest history and colonial landmarks, allowing visitors to step back in time. Whether you're a beach lover, outdoor adventurer, history buff, or just looking for a new experience, the eastern seaboard has something for everyone.

Narrowing down the must-see places on the East Coast can be a daunting task, given the diversity of options. To help travelers plan their ideal East Coast itinerary , here are 10 of the unique spots that should top any list.

Ocala National Forest, Florida

Deep in the heart of central Florida, Ocala National Forest is a hidden gem and the ideal destination for nature lovers looking to escape the crowds. Spanning over 430,000 acres, it is one of the largest National Forests in the eastern United States. Visiting travelers have the chance to traverse over 200 crystal clear springs and discover incredible wildlife, such as the Florida black bear, bald eagle, and endangered Florida panther. The forest contains over 600 lakes, rivers, and ponds to explore by canoe, kayak, or boat. With hundreds of miles of hiking and horseback riding trails, travelers can traverse various ecosystems, from pine flatwoods to palm hammocks. For an unforgettable experience, visitors can camp under a canopy of moss-draped live oaks and majestic pines.

• Location: Central Florida, north of Orlando
• Address: 40819 S. US Hwy 19, Paisley, FL 32767
• Hours: Open daily, 24 hours
• Entrance Fee : Free

Related: 16 Places In Florida That Feel Like The Caribbean

Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire

In the heart of the White Mountains lies Franconia Notch State Park, an ideal fall foliage destination and home to some of New Hampshire’s most spectacular natural landmarks. Visitors are greeted by the iconic Flume Gorge, a natural chasm with 70-foot-tall granite walls and a tumbling waterfall. Nearby is the Basin, a gorgeous glacial pool surrounded by smooth rock walls. Travelers can experience the best of the White Mountains along the park's extensive network of hiking trails, culminating in impressive mountain vistas. A unique highlight is the aerial tramway that carries visitors to the 4,080-foot summit of Cannon Mountain. From the observation deck, unparalleled panoramic views stretch across the valley and surrounding peaks. With so many ways to experience the stunning beauty of Franconia Notch, it's easy to see why this is one of New England's most beloved parks.

• Location: White Mountains, New Hampshire
• Address: I-93, Franconia, NH 03580
• Top Attractions: Flume Gorge, Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, Echo Lake Beach
• Best Time to Visit: September to mid-October for fall foliage
• Entrance Fee: $4 per adult, children under 11 free

Trap Pond State Park, Delaware

Off the beaten path in southern Delaware lies Trap Pond State Park , a nature lover's paradise. The focal point is the picturesque Trap Pond, a 398-acre freshwater lake ideal for boating, birdwatching, and fishing. Surrounding the lake is a lush forest with some of the northernmost bald cypress trees draped in wispy Spanish moss. Travelers can glide through these swamps on a canoe or kayak, keeping an eye out for wood ducks, herons, owls, and even migrating ospreys. With over 20 miles of hiking trails, visitors can also traverse wooded wetlands on foot. Come nightfall, Trap Pond becomes one of the best places on the East Coast to observe the Milky Way, thanks to its minimal light pollution. Whether boating, hiking, stargazing or relaxing lakeside, Trap Pond offers a serene natural escape.

• Location: Laurel, Delaware
• Address: 33570 Baldcypress Lane, Laurel, DE 19956
• Top Attractions: Bald Cypress Nature Trail, Trap Pond
• Best Time to Visit : Spring through fall
• Entrance Fee : $4 for Delaware registered vehicles, $8 out-of-state

Assateague Island, Maryland, and Virginia

For a beach getaway unlike any other, travelers will want to visit Assateague Island, a pristine barrier island stretching across Maryland and Virginia. Wandering Assateague's quiet sandy beaches, visitors may spot its most famous inhabitants, the wild horses. These ponies roam freely across the Island, interacting with visitors yet retaining their untamed spirit. Travelers can camp or stay in cozy cabins and soak in Assateague’s remote atmosphere, far from the crowds of Virginia Beach or Ocean City. During the day, activities include swimming, fishing, clamming, kayaking, and hiking marshy trails in search of birds. At night, campfires under the stars make for magical evenings on this untamed isle. With a landscape unchanged over centuries, Assateague offers an escape to simplicity.

• Location: Eastern shore of Maryland and Virginia
• Top Attractions: Assateague Lighthouse, Assateague Island National Seashore
• Entrance Fee : $25 per vehicle for 7 days
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring and early fall to avoid crowds

Related: 10 Reasons Why It's Worth Visiting Assateague State Park

Ocracoke Island, North Carolina

Nestled within North Carolina's Outer Banks is Ocracoke Island, a destination that moves at its own quaint pace. Accessed only by ferry, plane, or private boat, the Island remains blissfully undeveloped and the state's best-kept vacation secret . Miles of pristine beaches wait to be explored, where visitors may spot the wild Banker ponies or search for unique seashells and pirate treasure. In the village of Ocracoke, locally owned restaurants, shops, and inns encapsulate the Island's village charm. For history lovers, Ocracoke offers a trip back in 18th-century maritime life, with iconic lighthouses and artifacts from Blackbeard’s shipwrecks. Out on the water, visitors can try sailing, surfing, kayaking, or just relaxing on a fishing boat tour. With its laid-back vibe and wealth of coastal activities, Ocracoke provides the perfect Outer Banks escape.

• Location : Outer Banks, North Carolina
• Top Attractions : Ocracoke Lighthouse, Ocracoke Pony Pen
• Ferry Fee : $1-15 per person

Sullivan's Island, South Carolina

One of Charleston's best beaches , Sullivan's Island, offers a unique blend of history, charm, and natural beauty. Along its sweeping beaches, travelers can walk in the footsteps of Edgar Allan Poe, who was once stationed at Fort Moultrie. The Island's picturesque lighthouse set against swaying palms is an iconic scene. Visitors can dine at island restaurants, dishing up delicious Lowcountry cuisine with fresh local seafood. Nearby is the Isle of Palms, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or lounging on even more gorgeous beaches. At night, Sullivan's Island comes alive with amazing sunsets and party-like bars and restaurants on the main drag. Whether seeking history, nature, food, or nightlife, this Island encapsulates the best of charming coastal living.

• Location: Charleston area, South Carolina
• Top Attractions: Fort Moultrie, Sullivan's Island Lighthouse
• Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November

Guilford, Connecticut

On Connecticut’s tranquil coast, the town of Guilford provides an idyllic New England getaway. Travelers are drawn to the historic Guilford Green, bordered by charming shops and restaurants in Victorian buildings. At the Henry Whitfield State Museum, tours reveal the oldest stone house in New England, built-in 1639. Outdoors, the town harbors hideaway beaches and nature preserve like the 70-acre West Woodforest, crisscrossed with walking trails. Nearby is the Stony Creek Brewery, where visitors can sample craft beer while overlooking the waterfront. For even more history, travelers can visit Branford’s Thimble Islands by boat tour to see the cluster of small rock islets dotting Long Island Sound. With its classic architecture, scenic trails, and laid-back coastal charm, Guilford encapsulates the beauty of historic Connecticut.

• Location: Southern Connecticut coast
• Top Attractions: Henry Whitfield State Museum, Guilford Green
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall

Related: These Are The 12 Most Beautiful Towns In Connecticut You Should Visit

Camden, Maine

All along the rugged Maine coast are charming harbor villages, but few capture the coastal spirit like Camden, a hidden gem that offers many things to do . Cradled by forested slopes and rocky shores, this quintessential Maine town boasts pristine vistas around every corner. Travelers can sail out to the sandy shores of Curtis Island or Isleboro, try a windjammer cruise, or simply relax beside the harbor as historic schooners drift past. The lively downtown is filled with chic boutiques, galleries, bakeries, and restaurants serving lobster straight from the dockside boats. Hikers can ascend Mount Battie for panoramic ocean views or traverse miles of shoreline trails just steps from downtown. Whether you visit for the fall foliage, summer festivals, or the town’s captivating scenery, Camden perfectly encapsulates the natural wonders of the Maine coast.

• Location: Mid-coast Maine
• Top Attractions: Camden Hills State Park, Windjammer Cruises
• Best Time to Visit: June through October

Cooperstown, New York

Baseball fan or not, the charming village of Cooperstown is an American classic. Situated on the shores of pristine Otsego Lake, this upstate New York town is best known as the home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Wandering through, visitors experience the game’s history from early 20th-century stars like Babe Ruth to modern heroes like Hank Aaron. Away from the exhibits, the downtown historic district charms with unique shops, restaurants, and bed & breakfast inns. Hikers and boaters come to explore nearby Glimmerglass State Park while families visit the Farmers Museum interactive exhibit. Nearby breweries like the Ommegang and Cooperstown Brewing offer tastings in magical outdoor settings. For any traveler interested in Americana, Cooperstown hits it out of the park.

• Location: Central New York
• Address: 25 Main Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326
• Top Attractions: National Baseball Hall of Fame, Glimmerglass State Park
• Hall of Fame Admission : $24 adults/$17 kids

Bound Brook Island Beach, Massachusetts

Located on the elbow of Cape Cod, just after the Cape Cod Canal , lies Bound Brook Island Beach, a secluded oceanside paradise. Part of the Sandy Neck barrier beach, this 4.5-mile sandy stretch faces Cape Cod Bay rather than the more crowded Atlantic side. Calm waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. At low tide, visitors can walk out along sand flats scattered with seashells. Dunes cloaked in beach grass border the shoreline, anchored by the historic Sandy Neck Lighthouse. The beach has no facilities, adding to its remote feel. Travelers willing to 4-wheel drive or hike in are rewarded with a beach nearly to themselves. For those seeking Cape Cod’s natural allure away from crowds, Bound Brook Island Beach is a hidden gem.

• Location: Cape Cod, Massachusetts
• Top Attractions: Sandy Neck Lighthouse, off-road driving on the beach
• Parking Permit : $15/day

Watch CBS News

Hurricane Beryl maps show path and landfall forecast

By Cara Tabachnick , Emily Mae Czachor

Updated on: July 4, 2024 / 6:15 AM EDT / CBS News

  Hurricane Beryl  was nearing the Cayman Islands early Thursday after it roared past Jamaica Wednesday as a  powerful Category 4  storm. It made landfall Monday on the island of Carriacou in Grenada while tearing through the Caribbean, strengthening at times to a Category 5 storm — the  strongest rating .

What is the projected path of Hurricane Beryl?

The U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami said the center of Beryl would pass just south of the Cayman Islands early Thursday before approaching Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula early Friday. Beryl is expected to be at or near major hurricane intensity as it passes the Caymans. "Additional weakening is expected thereafter, though Beryl is forecast to remain a hurricane until it makes landfall on the Yucatan Peninsula," the center said.

A hurricane is considered major when it's a  Category 3 or higher , with winds of at least 111 mph. As of 5 a.m. Thursday, Beryl was a Category 3 with maximum sustained winds of 120 mph, the hurricane center said.

Beryl was some 55 miles south-southeast of Grand Cayman and 440 miles east-southeast of Tulum, Mexico. It was moving west-northwest at 20 mph, according to the center.

Will Hurricane Beryl hit Texas?

CBS affiliate KHOU-TV reported  that whether Beryl  crashes into Texas depends on how much strength it loses as it goes over land as well as conditions in the Gulf of Mexico in the coming days. One key factor will be how wind shear affects Beryl.

"The flow of the wind pattern as it enters the Gulf is going to be more hostile," KHOU-TV meteorologist Kim Castro said. "The atmospheric conditions are going to start ripping it apart."

Another factor will be an area of high pressure in Texas that has been acting as a barrier but is forecast to move east later this week.

"Depending on where Beryl is situated, it could track towards Tampico (Mexico), the area where these tropical storms have tracked so far this season," Castro said. "…However, if this tracks a little further to the north, there would be nothing to kind of nudge it south, so there is a little exposure to the Texas coastline."

The hurricane center urged people in southern Texas to monitor Beryl's progress.

A hurricane warning was discontinued for Jamaica but one was posted early Thursday for the Cayman Islands, as well as the Mexican Yucatan coast from Puerto Costa Maya to Cancun, including Cozumel.

Where is Hurricane Beryl bringing rain and flooding?

Jamaica experienced torrential rainfall and life-threatening flash flooding Wednesday. 

Early Thursday, the hurricane center said the Caymans were forecast to get 4 to 6 inches of rain from Beryl. "Over the Yucatan Peninsula, Beryl is expected to produce rainfall totals of 4 to 6 inches, with localized amounts of 10 inches, later today into Friday. Scattered instances of flash flooding are anticipated," the center continued.

Beryl became the  first hurricane  of the 2024  Atlantic hurricane season  on Saturday and rapidly strengthened. It first reached Category 4 on Sunday, wavering back to Category 3 before returning to Category 4 on Monday and then becoming a Category 5 later Monday night. It is the first major hurricane east of the Lesser Antilles on record for June, according to Philip Klotzbach, Colorado State University hurricane researcher.

Brian McNoldy, a tropical meteorology researcher for the University of Miami, told The Associated Press warm waters are fueling Beryl, with ocean heat content in the deep Atlantic the highest on record for this time of year.

Beryl has also set records  as the first June hurricane ever to hit Category 4, the farthest east a storm has ever hit Category 4, and the first storm before September to go from tropical depression to major hurricane in under 48 hours, CBS News weather producer David Parkinson reported.

Beryl was also the earliest Category 5 hurricane ever recorded in the Atlantic basin and was only the second Category 5 storm recorded in July since 2005, according to the hurricane center.

Brian Dakss, Alex Sundby and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Cara Tabachnick is a news editor at CBSNews.com. Cara began her career on the crime beat at Newsday. She has written for Marie Claire, The Washington Post and The Wall Street Journal. She reports on justice and human rights issues. Contact her at [email protected]

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

‘Friendly’ and ‘walkable’ city named one of the best UK destinations

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Looking for your next day trip destination? A ‘friendly’ and ‘walkable’ city has been named one of the UK’s best destinations .

Leicester – the final resting place of Richard III – has been shortlisted for best UK destination at the Group Leisure & Travel Awards.

Home to historic buildings, famous Indian restaurants and Leicester City football club, this East Midlands city is often overlooked in favour of its larger sibling Nottingham .

Locals and tourists alike, however, are raving about Leicester’s wow factor.

‘Walkable and the people are pretty friendly. Only an hour and half train ride from London, but there’s already a good amount of stuff to do. Amazing food and restaurants as well,’ Reddit user @tillybilly89, who moved to the city to study, wrote.

‘Leicester is the most affordable place I have lived in England yet only 2 hours or less from big cities,’ added @Travelin2017, whilst @summa-awilum, who used to live in Los Angeles, praised the East Midlands gem for being ‘multicultural.’

‘It’s multicultural, it’s a good size, it has a nice central location, it’s affordable, and it has a good arts scene. There’s a lot of history in Leicester, too, and it’s a fun place to show off to family and friends when they visit.’

Things to do in Leicester

Into history? Leicester is one of the UK’s oldest cities, and, perhaps most famously, the Battle of Bosworth – the last battle in the War of the Roses – took place in the county.

Visitors should take a trip to the King Richard III Visitor Centre to learn the story of how the famous King of England, who was slain in 1485, was found underneath a city centre carpark in September 2012.

Now, after a state funeral, his body lies in the Leicester Cathedral – making Leicester one of the few places in the UK where a British monarch is laid to rest.

And, if you want even more War of the Roses info, head over to Market Bosworth, a picturesque town with a market square, lined with cute tea rooms and independent shops. Afternoon tea at Softley’s is delicious, try the Turkish fayre at Istanbul BBQ Kitchen, or have slap up pub meal at The Black Horse.

The nearby Battlefield is thought to be where Henry Tudor and King Richard fought for the crown – recent research found the battle actually happened about a mile away, but the place is still worth a visit to learn more about the battle – and for the stunning countryside views.

Back in the city, The Guildhall Museum is the oldest building still in use in Leicester, with the earliest part dating back to 1390.

It acted as the town hall, and was famously the centre of celebrations after Elizabeth I’s navy defeated the Spanish Armada in 1588.

There’s also the National Space Centre, the only museum in the world that houses upright space rockets indoors, and anyone who went to school in Leicester will be familiar with New Walk museum (New Walk, the street that leads to the museum, is an original Georgian Promenade, and has only ever been for pedestrians). Its Egyptian and Dinosaur galleries are always popular with little ones, making it a family friendly day out.

The best bars in Leicester

• Audrey Bar is an instagrammable bar that serves up bottomless brunch, great cocktails – on the weekends it comes with the soundtrack of RnB, garage and hip hop bops.
• For great music and cocktails – with a dance floor space – head to Fat Cat .
• 33CankStreet bills themselves as Leicester’s first and best table service cocktail bar. Book a table here for creative drinks you don’t get anywhere else.
• Lane 7 has 12 bowling venues around the UK, and the Leicester spot is definitely worth a visit. There’s bowling, karaoke, darts, pool, crazy golf and, of course, booze.
• For fancy wines, Veeno has a huge range, plus you can get wine flights. They start at £10 per person for three.

If museums aren’t your thing, Leicester has a vibrant arts scene – famous musical exports include Kasabian and Mahalia.

The Shed , in the cultural quarter, is the place to go to discover new talent, with live music and DJs every weekend.

If film and theatre takes your fancy, the Curve plays host to touring West End shows – and you can even catch performances here before they make it to London. The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13¾ premiered here (based on the book written by Leicester legend, Sue Townsend), before going to the capital.

For independent cinema the Phoenix Theatre shows everything from major Hollywood releases to tiny independent films. There’s also a cafe and rooftop bar, The Nest, making it perfect for a date or special night out.

And if sport is more your idea of theatre, the city has a number of teams for you to support – Leicester City Football Club and the Leicester Tigers rugby team both have huge followings.

You can also watch the Leicester Riders play basketball, or head to Grace Road to watch some cricket.

@taliathefoodie Leicester’s hidden gem – the University of Leicester botanical garden🌸 #PlacesToVisit #taliathefoodie #leicester ad ♬ Wildest Dreams – Duomo

Leicester has its fair share of green spaces and waterways too, with the Grand Union Canal running from London to Birmingham and, subsequently, straight through the city centre.

There’s also the University of Leicester’s beautiful Botanic Gardens, where you can see and learn about a wide range of plants.

Abbey Park, Fosse Meadows and Beacon Hill also offer up a quiet spot for an afternoon stroll.

@roxxxi_19 Am I in Disney movie 🤔 #leicester #bradgatepark #fyp #foryou #england #nature #views ♬ Disney-style fanfare-style BGM – harryfaoki

And there’s also Bradgate Park – another spot for the historians as it’s where Lady Jane Grey – who was Queen for just nine days – lived. But it’s also stunning, be sure to keep an eye out for the deer.

And when it comes to food, Leicester is famous for its Indian restaurants. The city is proud of its diversity, and it’s often said Leicester has the largest Diwali celebrations outside of India.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C4dFNcMOF9x

Along the Golden Mile, you can find authentic food, spices and clothing. Popular restaurants include Bobby’s, which serves up vegetarian Indian food, and Paddy’s Marten Inn.

How to get to Leicester

The best way to get to Leicester is by train. It’s just over an hour away from London, and trains go direct from St Pancras International.

Alternatively, you can get a train to Nuneaton from London Euston, which tend to be cheaper, and slightly quicker. You can either grab a cab into Leicester, or get another train. Altogether, this route takes between 1 hour 35 minutes and 2 hours 19 minutes.

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Book wisely, and you can get a return train to Nuneaton for around £40 – the service to Leicester can be more expensive though, with a return fare costing around £70.

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