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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!

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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• 20+ Best Things to Do in East Iceland

What to See and Do When Visiting East Iceland?

• GENERAL INFO
• BEST PLACES IN EAST ICELAND

Related Tours

Related blog posts.

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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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.

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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Top 15 Places to Visit in East Iceland

East Iceland is not a densely populated part of Iceland. But don’t let the population numbers fool you. In fact, this mostly untouched part of the island holds many magnificent natural wonders. Visitors have plenty of things to do in East Iceland .

The region is rich in history, and culture, and offers dramatic scenery that will put your best telenovela to shame. In this article, we dive into the specifics of the region and everything there is to do and see.

East Iceland

East Iceland makes up roughly 22.721 square kilometers of Iceland. It is characterized by its jagged coastline of fjords, quite unimaginatively referred to as the Eastfjords. It stretches from Bakkafjördur in the north to Alftafjördur in the south.

The eastern region of Iceland is not very densely populated, with the entire east of Iceland sporting a population of just over 13.000. To put it into perspective even further, Egilsstadir is the largest town in the east of Iceland, yet it only has a population of just over 2000!

But wherever human intervention has been kept at bay, nature rules supreme. This is clear with the majestic scenery and natural attractions that can be found in East Iceland . There are so many exciting things to do in Iceland , and Eastern Iceland is not different from the rest of the country. So, here’s a list of the top places and activities to include in your East Iceland itinerary:

1. Become a Piece of Art

Along the popular Ring Road route between Hofn and Egilsstadir, you’ll find a mysterious red chair sitting in the middle of nowhere. You can’t miss it due to the contrast of its bright color with the rest of the landscape. But this is actually an art installation that invites you to become a part of it.

The Red Chair is bolted to the rock and invites you to take a seat. Not only is the stop at Red Chair a welcome breather along the way, but it makes for incredible photographs.

2. Visit Hengifoss Waterfall

Of all the 10 000 waterfalls found on the island, Hengifoss Waterfall is one of the tallest. In fact, it claims third place in the category, clocking in at a staggering 128 meters! Except for its beautiful backdrop of basalt rock, what’s even more striking are the red rings that seem to wrap themselves around the falls. They are embedded in the basalt at intervals. These red rings are actually clay that has formed between the basaltic strata.

Getting to Hengifoss will require a short hike of 2.5 kilometers, but don’t worry, the trail is not challenging . It’s suitable for old and young alike, and will take you max an hour. During the walk, you can beguile the kids with the local folklore. Did you know that elves once inhabited the gorge around Hengifoss Waterfall ?

In fact, on a New Year’s day, many, many years ago, two men were peacefully walking through the gorge. Suddenly, they heard the Icelandic hymn “Heidur se Gudi Himnum a” aka “Honour to God in Heaven”. But instead of it sounding as if someone who was also traveling in the gorge was singing it, it seemed as though it came from the rocks themselves!

Once the song finished, a mysterious bell chimed. Realizing that it must be the legendary Hidden Folk of Iceland, they quickly went on their way, hoping that they had not disturbed them. Iceland’s elves don’t take too kindly to being messed with.

3. Spot a Puffin at Borgarfjördur Eystri

Okay, so even though the place will be there all year round, the activity is seasonal. Each year between May and August, the Puffins make Iceland their breeding grounds . These penguin-like birds with their colored beaks are quite a sight . Once the Pufflings (yes, that’s actually what they’re called) arrive, you’ll suffer from a major cuteness overload.

One of the best places to observe these birds is at Borgarfjördur Eystri where you can get as close as up to 1 meter to these “clowns of the sea”. Here you stroll among their nests on specially built stairs, watching them play and waddle all around you.

4. See the Gates of Hell at Storurd

Whether the Gates of Hell really are at Storurd, we’ll leave it up to you to decide. But the strange gap in the majestic mountain range has been there for centuries and does look like some sort of portal straight out of Lord of the Rings . But if it truly is the Gates of Hell, there’s clearly a fine line between Heaven and Hell.

The hike to Storurd is fairytale-like with beautiful meadows, gigantic boulders, and ponds with bright blue water. And the best part of Storurd? It’s a pretty well-kept secret, few know about this magical place . So, visitors usually find themselves alone and completely at peace in these magnificent surroundings.

The hike is not particularly challenging, but we do recommend taking it on during the warm summer months from mid-July to mid-September. There are various trail options to Storurd that range from a 2.5 to a 6-hour walk , and it’ll be up to you which fits your time schedule best.

5. Visit Seydisfjordur

Seydisfjordur is a charming little fishing village with brightly colored buildings. It lies just half an hour off the Ring Road and there are plenty of places one can overnight at in order to explore the town properly. Take a walk along the rainbow-colored road that will lead you to a bright blue and white-trimmed church (the perfect photo opp!).

Or pop into some of the local museums. There are also exciting activities around the town all throughout the year. From hiking and golfing during the summer months to skiing during the winter months. But whatever you do, do not miss this quaint little town on the Iceland East Coast!

6. Take a Stroll in Hallormsstadaskogur National Forest

There is a joke in Iceland that is founded on a pretty serious and sad reality: “How do you find your way out of an Icelandic forest? Just stand up.” That’s because deforestation nearly devastated the island. In fact, most of Iceland was completely devoid of forestation within just a year of the first settlers arriving in the country.

Staring an environmental crisis in the face, a Brichwood forest was granted government protection in 1905 . This area is now known as Hallormsstadaskogur National Forest and boasts over 85 species of trees across 550 hectares of land. The forest has also become a mecca for avid birdwatchers! They can look forward to seeing everything from Snipes and Ravens to Eurasian Woodcocks, Goldcrests, and Redwings.

7. Road Trip the Eastern Fjords of Iceland

Sometimes you just want to take a relaxing road trip drive and see what you can spot along the way. Driving around Vattarnes Peninsula from Reydarfjördur to Faskrudsfjördur is exactly such a ride. This path will take you around many of the east fjords in Iceland, with breathtaking views over the East Iceland landscape. If you’re lucky, you’ll even be able to spot a whale or two frolicking around in the fjords.

8. Visit Mjoifjordur

Mjoifjordur is a magical little town located on the shores of Mjoifjordur aka “the Narrow Fjord”. This little town with just a handful of permanent residents can only be accessed for a few months every year due to the Iceland weather and snow . But this truly is a magical place if you can visit.

Not only is it absolutely beautiful, but the shores of the fjord feel otherworldly due to the area’s calm weather compared to the outskirts. You’ll also find one of the best photo opps in East Iceland here; an old World War II US Navy shipwreck.

The wreck surrounded by water and mountains makes for quite the scene. From Mjoifjordur you can also take hikes to some of the more remote waterfalls (truly walking the road less traveled).

9. Take a Dip in a Natural Hot Waterfall

This is an incredible experience. Laugarvellir is a very remote geothermal valley with a waterfall and pool situated in the northeast of Iceland. Although the water generally stays between 39-41 degrees Celsius, it’s always wise to just dip in a toe before plunging in.

You’ll also be soaking at an altitude of 600 meters . Getting to Laugarvellir is quite challenging and there’s no way you’ll be able to take on the gravel roads without a 4x4 . But this is a blessing in disguise since it ensures a peaceful soak with not many people around.

Directions to Laugarvellir are as follows: travel 7 km south from Egilsstadir down the Ring Road before turning east on Road 931. Cross the bridge and then take Road 933 for a short while before turning onto Road 910. Once you’ve reached Halslon Dam, you’ll find Laugarvellir roughly 7 km further, but this 7 km can only be traveled by foot, so come prepared.

10. Sleep Over in a Church

When you pass Kirkjubaer , one can be forgiven for thinking that you’ve just passed a very cute little church. And you’ll be half right. With its steeple and white exterior and bright blue roof, door, and windows. Yet, It once served as a church to the villagers in Stodvarfjördur , but when the new and bigger church was built, this one started to fall into disrepair.

Many found this historical building crumbling into ruin heartbreaking, especially a local couple. They bought the church and renovated it. Today, it serves as local accommodation to visitors. Here they can rent the house/church with many of its original accessories and furniture still inside.

11. Hike the Studlagil Canyon

This jaw-dropping canyon is a hidden gem and well-kept secret in East Iceland. Sadly, not many get to experience the steep basalt cliff walls, and the bright blue glacial water running through the canyon . But although the hike is just over 9 km long (round trip), the hike is fairly challenging.

Not only is the trail not well-maintained, but you’ll also be walking on slippery basalt rocks. You’ll need to ensure that you’re wearing the appropriate hiking boots. But those who do decide to take on the Studlagil Canyon hike get to experience the hike of a lifetime.

12. Admire Bulandstindur

Bulandstindur is a mountain with a distinct pyramid-like shape that is over 8 million years old. It is surrounded by all sorts of myths and legends that have inspired writers and artists all throughout the years . For one, it is considered to be one of Iceland’s biggest energy sources.

And secondly, in a very similar tale to the one of Godafoss Waterfall , it is believed that the country’s chiefs throw their pagan idols from the top. This moment symbolized the island’s conversion to Christianity. That’s why Bulandstindur is also called Godabord, meaning “God’s Rock”.

Whether you believe in the stories or not, there are various trails that will bring you closer to the 1069-meter-high peak. Although it won’t give you clarity on the different folklore, it’ll definitely give you unforgettable views over East Iceland.

13. Stop at Stapavik

Stapavik is an abandoned harbor on the way to Borgarfjördur Eystri. To get there, you’ll need to take a short hike from the farm, Unaos, and pass the black beach ‘till you reach the end of the trail on the edge of a cliff.

It is here that you’ll find the ruins of the harbor that once drove fear into every sailor and his wife. The area is known for its rough seas and raging storms, and the harbor claimed many lives of sailors unloading supplies. After the last incident in the 1940s, the port was closed for good.

14. Take a Snap of the Hvalnes Lighthouse

The Hvalnes Lighthouse was built in 1954 and stands just over 11 meters tall. Many visitors flock to this lighthouse overlooking the beaches of Hvalnes Nature Reserve . In this area, one can experience interesting shapes and bright orange color .

The lighthouse is still active today, so it’s not open to the public. But you can still take a pretty impressive picture, especially on overcast days. The orange lighthouse creates a stark contrast to the dark, brooding clouds.

15. Visit Vatnajökull National Park

Vatnajökull National Park is the largest National Park in Iceland and covers approximately 14% of the country’s land surface . The park is incredibly impressive and hosts a ton of must-visit attractions, such as Vatnajökull (the largest glacier in Europe).

Here you can also find Jökulsarlon Glacier Lagoon , and Hvannadalshnukur (Iceland’s highest mountain). A trip to Iceland is not the same without stopping at this incredible national heritage site.

East Iceland: a Treasure Waiting to be Discovered

As you might’ve gathered from many of the incredible places we’ve mentioned in this article, dew people who know about or visit Iceland’s east coast. This makes it an absolute hidden gem just waiting to be discovered.

So, once you’ve arrived on the island, and you’ve rented your car in Iceland, make your way to the eastern side of the island. You won’t be sorry with everything that’s waiting there for you!

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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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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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• 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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The Traveler’s Guide to East Iceland – Weather, Landscape, and Things to do

• Last Updated: May 21, 2024
• Norbert Zohó

Most visitors to Iceland tend to concentrate on the immediate area around Reykjavik. As a result, the eastern region has received little attention to date; being too far away is a common observation. It’s a mistake because East Iceland has an incredibly varied landscape, including a stunning coastline and beautiful little fjord-side villages. However, social media is spreading the word about this region, so it will likely become more prevalent soon. Its remoteness will not change, though, so those travelers wanting to enjoy Iceland without confronting crowds and mass tourism should take note.

The eastern region is very popular with locals, and not without good reason. Discerning tourists should think about following their lead. This article aims to teach the reader more about East Iceland, its climate, its geological features, and the highlights it offers. Another article concentrates on the attractions to include in your itinerary if you visit Iceland.

How Many Days Do You Need in East Iceland?

Guided tours, self-drive itineraries to east iceland, towns, villages, and infrastructure, road conditions, east iceland weather, geology and landscape, sagas and history, kayaking and sailing, hiking the glaciers, take a soak in a geothermal pool, music festivals, how to get about.

There is a single ring road – The Ring Road or Road 1 – going right around Iceland with Austurland, the eastern region, accessible via that road. The journey between Reykjavik and Egilsstaðir – the capital of East Iceland – takes between six and seven hours, driving non-stop. With so much to see and do on that journey, however, you will certainly want to stop, if only to take photographs!

Since this region is located in the opposite corner of the country from the capital, visiting East Iceland also means crossing at least one more entire region: South Iceland or North Iceland. We recommend traveling through these wonderful areas without rushing, as both North and South Iceland have natural wonders that deserve some of your time.

Ideally, given the time, we would suggest you travel all the way around Iceland, clockwise or counterclockwise. If you hurry, you can miss so much and might return to the capital, having spent too much time in the car. Spending at least ten days traveling around Iceland sounds about right, ensuring you miss nothing.

You should remember, however, that the shortened hours of daylight in winter mean that you have less time in that season to enjoy the natural setting than in the summer. Therefore, to avoid driving in the darkness and missing out on the beautiful landscapes, add a few more days to your timeframe if you’re traveling to Iceland in winter.

If you’re in a hurry, you can skip the entire northern and southern regions of Iceland by taking a domestic flight to Egilsstaðir. Starting from here, you can explore the eastern area in just four or five days. Anything less than three days will see you constantly driving rather than enjoying the surroundings.

If you opt for a guided tour, book a multi-day guided tour that will take you around the whole of Iceland, not just the east. There are plenty of stops along the way. While the shortest Ring Road tour lasts six days, there are alternatives lasting for up to two weeks. So if you have two weeks available, you will be able to spend more time in each location and leave Iceland knowing that you have really seen the country.

Self-Drive Tours

An alternative is to rent a car, plan an itinerary and go around East Iceland independently without a local guide. Campervans, motorhomes, and cars are all available to rent. This will require some planning, but we’re here to help you!

Here are two great examples of self-drive itineraries around Iceland that include the exploration of the eastern region:

• Iceland Complete – 21 days ;
• Iceland Circle – 10 days .

Any element of these itineraries can be adjusted to suit your needs and travel preferences. If you are interested in receiving a price calculation or additional information about a personalized travel package, don’t hesitate to contact us .

There is no reason why you cannot drive from Reykjavik independently but then join a day tour or guided activity once you are there. Tours are available starting from Höfn or Egilsstaðir, with plenty of alternatives such as nature sightseeing, glacier hiking , kayaking , boat tours, and even horse riding . In addition, you can get more information locally from tourist services as well as guest houses.

Just around 13,000 people inhabit East Iceland, a small fraction of the national population. Such a sparse population in a region measuring 23,000 sq km (8,800 sq. miles) has drawbacks. There are limited alternatives for restaurants and supermarkets, with just a few little villages beyond the two main towns.

Those towns, Höfn and Egilsstaðir, have the facilities you will need, cafes and restaurants, supermarkets and other shops, and gas stations. Egilsstaðir is regarded as the capital of East Iceland, unofficially at least. It was only formed in 1947 but has grown into a modern town of 2,300 people.

Of the smaller towns, look at Djúpivogur, Seyðisfjörður, and Borgarfjörður Eystri in fantastic natural settings. They have a few cafe and restaurant alternatives and small stores selling groceries. If you need accommodation on your trip, it is wise to book in advance because there are limited alternatives.

One of the earliest settlements in Iceland is Seyðisfjörður which you will find in a fjord carrying the same name. Graves there have been dated back to the 7th Century, while later Norwegian sailors made homes there. They built distinctive houses that remain today in the town, which is now home to 700 people. The highlight is the church in an attractive blue, where summer concerts are held in the summertime.

Djúpivogur is a Cittaslow town, the only one in Iceland. What is Cittaslow, you might ask? It aims to improve the quality of life within towns, targeting a slower pace of life while removing daily pressures. You will feel this if you visit the town whose location between two fjords is compelling. Add the breathtaking natural environment and fauna, and you will not want to leave.

The Ring Road poses no problems for you to drive around, yet more minor roads are not in the same condition, often both bumpy and narrow. The Ring Road’s importance to the island means it is well-maintained all year round. Yet, even then, winter conditions are a challenge. Occasionally the road has to be closed, even briefly. In the winter, a 4-wheel drive vehicle is needed if you want to explore the fjords. Don’t try it if you are an inexperienced driver. Summer, however, is fine in any vehicle.

East Iceland’s climate is slightly colder than other parts of the country. The reason is largely because part of the cold East Greenland Current heads past Iceland’s northeastern and eastern coasts. As a result, the Current reduces the sea surface’s temperature and affects the coastline’s weather and temperatures.

Winter begins earlier than in the West and South of Iceland and lasts longer. It is important to bear this in mind if you are planning your own itinerary. Visiting the fjords in the East during the winter can be a real challenge. There is plenty of snow, with roads regularly slippery and icy. So you must be prepared for this as you head out.

There are few issues, however, in the summer. Nothing tropical, of course, but on lovely summer days, temperatures can reach 18-20C (64-68F).

The East is the oldest part of Iceland, geologically. This is because the island is located on the boundary of tectonic plates continuing to drift with the East and West spreading, making the East and west the oldest parts of Iceland.

Some of the remains of central volcanoes, 14 in all, are magnificent. They are scattered throughout the region. Their origin is back in the Ice Age when glaciers fashioned the surface. As the ice melted, volcanic features, including magma chambers, were revealed.

The story of the Earth’s formation is told in the local landscape. Green and soft valleys, steep fjords with layers set down over the centuries, and basaltic lava layering are features you will see, the latter from the beautiful Hengifoss waterfall especially (described in this article ). In addition, this region is famous for rhyolite formations and a number of great minerals, notably amethyst, opal, jasper, onyx, zeolites, and fossils.

The East is where you will find what the people called “solar stone” in medieval times, but today it is known as a spar. In the 17th Century, the transparent form gathered fame because of its double refraction properties. The early development of wave optics was mainly down to this form of calcite. There is a fine collection on display in Petra’s Stone Collection at Stodvarfjordur.

Not surprisingly, given the East is the most sparsely populated part of the island, it is a great place to see the wildlife of Iceland. It includes hundreds of species of birds and several locations from which to observe them. Borgarfjörður Eysti is the place to go for puffin-watching, for example. You can also expect to see seals and arctic foxes, Iceland’s only native land mammal.

However, the highlight is undoubtedly the reindeer. The reindeer was introduced from Norway for farming, but the exercise was unsuccessful. As a result, they live wild in the region’s mountains. You are likely to see herds without leaving the road, particularly in the colder weather when they come down to lower land searching for food.

East Iceland’s history predates that of the Nordic settlement in Iceland. Yet, even in the remote Highlands, there are signs of history from centuries ago. Ruins and sites are everywhere: fjords, farms, and villages.

The Romans were probably the first people to reach Iceland. Their coins were discovered near Djúpivogur, proving they were there in the 1st Century. Likewise, there is evidence that Irish monks came to Iceland searching for solitude in medieval times.

Icelandic sagas tell of hermits on the island in the 8th Century when Vikings first reached Iceland. Ingólfur, Arnason, and Hjörleifur were the first Vikings to arrive in East Iceland, where they spent a whole winter.

You can take one of several hiking trails, including historical locations and saga landmarks. This is a mystical land, a description earned because of legends concerning supernatural creatures. Add that to the burial sites and the ruins of ancient monasteries, and you have compelling reasons to explore.

In the 19th Century, East Iceland thrived because of the whaling and fishing industry. A whaling station run by Norwegians existed in the East. It was the largest in the world at that time. With prosperity came the growth of several villages in the fjords. Seyðisfjörður became a communication hub after receiving the first telegraph cable from Europe in 1906.

Fishing is still the primary industry here, while agriculture and livestock is an important activity in the valleys. A large aluminium smelter is found in Reyðarfjörður, Egilsstaðir has an international airport, and the Norröna ferry runs to and fro from Seyðisfjörður, connecting Iceland with Denmark and the Faroes. Tourism has become increasingly important, helped by the transport infrastructure.

Things to Do in East Iceland

Whether you hire a car or take a guided tour , traveling the roads around East Iceland is something you must do to see its highlights. In addition, you can take detours off the main road to visit the remote villages of the east. It’s well worth it, so stop in every village, sit with a coffee and a snack and ask the locals about their home district and the history and sagas associated with the locality.

These detours may not be possible in the winter because of the conditions of the minor roads. You should check things in advance before attempting particular roads and journeys. Indeed, the Highlands can be rugged even in the summer, especially in a small car. A guide is probably your best bet for visiting the Highlands; find tours here .

You can get a different perspective of a region from the water, hence the popularity of kayaking and sailing. Perhaps kayaking is not for the novice, but experienced kayakers will love paddling around the fjords. The waters are usually calm and safe, ideal conditions for kayaking. Guided kayaking is available for beginners, while boat tours are offered in many villages.

There are more than 30 outlet glaciers in Vatnajokull, with several suitable for hiking. The area of Skaftafell is arguably the best, while tours to Hofsjokull, which is further East, are another excellent option. However, remember that you should have a local guide, suitable footwear, and equipment before contemplating hiking on a glacier. Find guided glacier hike tours here .

Iceland is well known for its stunning geothermal pools, and nowhere are they more impressive than in East Iceland. Vök Baths on the beautiful Lake Urriðavatn is a great option, just a short drive northwest of Egilsstaðir.

Head to the lake, and you will find several geothermal pools. The pools of warm water literally float on the lake, an experience you will never forget. A 360-degree view over the immediate area will fill your eyes as you relax in the warm waters. If you travel to East Iceland, you really must experience this.

If hiking is your thing, East Iceland is your paradise. Lots of the locals spend their holidays hiking in East Iceland. No one will ever tire of this beautiful natural environment! Add to this that fewer people roam this region than take the trails in the west and south, and you can see yet another advantage of selecting this part of Iceland.

Vatnajokull National Park is the best place in Iceland for anyone interested in nature and hiking. Imagine seeing the verdant birch forests and blue glacier tongues, truly rugged, and you can get the picture Skatafell paints. The Highlands are volcanic and barren, while the Dyrfjoll mountains near Borgarfjörður Eystri will remind you of the Alps. There are lovely views from the top of the mountains at Seyðisfjörður, and great trails through the island’s most extensive forest will capture your heart.

Art and Culture

East Iceland is famed for attracting and encouraging both creativity and entrepreneurship. The locals are a real mix and a mix that lives in true harmony. Expect to encounter broad-mindedness alongside offbeat understanding. The whole environment encourages creativity while giving you a healthy boost. Lovely art galleries and outdoor sculptures await culture lovers.

Seyðisfjörður is often called the art capital of Austurland, and this is where the LungA Art Festival is held. It is a unique festival that attracts the young and their talents. In the middle of July, people gather for a week in this small town of only 700 inhabitants to enjoy the space created by electric vibes from various art forms melting together when young people from all over the world unite in one place through their creativity. The week ends with a celebration, exhibitions, and concerts. Lunga has been a real boost to the village, adding to its existing attractions.

The Fish Factory Creative Centre in Stodvarfjordur is a community project in which many people collaborated and still do. The result is a center where you can see true creativity and beautiful crafts. It is a recent addition to the town and has followed sustainable principles and defined methods.

The Slaughterhouse Culture Centre in Egilsstaðir gets its name because of its use in former times. If you are interested in art, this is a place that you should include on your itinerary. You can expect an art exhibition with exhibits recognizing East Iceland’s history.

July is the month of the famous Einstnaflug in Neskaupstaður. It has been described as “The World’s Friendliest Heavy Metal Festival” and has been held annually since 2005. In its early days, performers were paid mainly in kind; beer and gas, occasionally money. Today, it has developed into an occasion where international acts perform.

Also in July, the last weekend in the month, the “Braedslan in Borgarfjörður Eystri” takes place in the above-mentioned Fish Factory. The small population of the village multiplies several times over. This is the largest music festival in Austurland. Demand far outstrips the number of tickets available to attend. However, that does not deter people who come anyway, camp, and enjoy the atmosphere that the occasion creates.

We’ve covered the most interesting facts and most exciting activities regarding East Iceland in our article. In this separate article , you can read about what to see in the region. 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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Top 10 Locations in East Iceland

While south , west , and south-west Iceland is the hub of commerce with its busy streets, beautiful little markets, monuments, and modern buildings, impressive nightlife, and some of the most frequented tourist attractions like the Golden Circle and the Blue Lagoon , East Iceland brings in the peace and spiritual factor that we all must have heard about. The entirety of east Iceland has been limited to the ones who seek to spend their vacation time in the company of peace more than anything else. The towns are equally beautiful and filled to the brim with historical significance but they are far from the explicit nightlife that towns like Reykjavik and Akureyri flaunt. In short, East Iceland is the less hectic version of the place that you wish to go to on vacation. The secluded glory of East Iceland has been deprived of human touch for the most part which is why it can be enjoyed in its rawest form.

Most travelers who come to Iceland for vacation or otherwise generally limit their travels to the south or the west and occasionally turn towards the north . The reasons for this particular behavior are not very hard to catch. Since most people travel to Iceland by air, they land on Keflavík International Airport which is located close to the capital city of Reykjavik . Attractions that are the nearest to the capital lie either towards the south or the west since Reykjavik is located in the south-western part of the country. When push comes to shove, many of the tourists choose to travel the north because of the Diamond circle destinations , and this leaves next to no time for the east, mostly. The lesser-known attractions of the place also add to this factor. Although when everything is said and done, East Iceland remains to be one of the best places to get some one-on-one time with mother nature and the blinding natural beauty of Iceland – it is isolation at its best.

In this article we will tell you about all the best spots to visit when traveling to East Iceland . Add them to your bucket list and plan a drive around the full Ring Road of Iceland. 

• Towns to visit in East Iceland
• Driving the Ring Road in Iceland
• Discover more locations in East Iceland
• Discover  hidden gems in Iceland.
• Self Driving in Iceland.

Stuðlagil Canyon

This exceptionally beautiful canyon has been hidden for a very long time underwater recently. Stuðlagil is a part of the bigger, Jökla’s canyon located in Jökuldalur valley also known as Glacier’s Valley. A hydroelectric plant – Kárahnjúkavirkjun – was built on the river Jökulsá á Dal also known as, Jökulsá á Brú, and Jökla, which significantly reduced the water flow of the river, revealing the gorgeous hidden canyon. Stuðlagil is definitely one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Iceland given the fact that almost every single element in this valley is nothing but perfection carved into physical form. Not to mention, the valley and the canyon share quite an adventurous spirit which makes it furthermore interesting for the lovers of thrill.

Mind that when we say this, it is not exaggerated at all, when you will finally feast your eyes upon Stuðlagil canyon, you would literally go speechless. The canyon has, hands-down, the most beautiful basalt column formations in the country which is a huge deal considering basalt columns are a very common occurrence in the country and almost all of them are quite beautiful. River Jökla used to be one of the largest and biggest glacial rivers in Iceland and nothing held comparison to its power. Then the hydroelectric plant was built which redirected most of the water that used to get to the Jökuldalur valley to go to the Hálslón reservoir instead in order to power the plant.

The sheer power of the river stopped most people from traveling to the valley since it was impossible to cross it. While the construction of the hydroelectric plant brought in a lot of controversies since it wasn’t doing justice to the environment, it certainly made a way for tourists to travel and experience the gorgeous little valley and the fabulous Stuðlagil canyon. Not only that when Jökla was a glacial river, but it also used to carry a lot of sand, mud, pebbles which made it dusty off-white in color. Now it has become a clear stream of water that features a vibrant aqua color since it is fed by several small sources of water most of which are clear water springs. Out of the two ways that can get you to the canyon, one includes a little bit of hiking which is about 4 kilometers long after you park your car near the farm Klaustursel. The hike will start from the narrow bridge that cannot be crossed in a car. After that, you continue the journey to the canyon on foot which will end with a great prize in the end.

You can read more about Stuðlagil Canyon and the hiking routes to the canyon here. 

The third highest waterfall in Iceland, Hengifoss is a waterfall that is better-known for the rocks around it rather than the falls itself. The gorgeous red and black pattern patterned rocks that colors the background of Hengifoss are loaded with years of history that relates to the making and breaking of planet earth. Hengifoss waterfall is quite thin which has earned its name – the ribbon waterfall. There is a beautiful little cave behind the waterfall which you can get to after a small hike. All in all, the experience is going to be quite magical if you are someone who loves nature.

Hengifoss is about 128 meters high and is one of the top landmarks of Eastfjords. It has lava strata surrounding it from all directions. You will find that the cliff in the background has a layered quality with red clay layers and black basalt layers. These layers are a result of 5 or even 6 million years old volcanic eruptions that led to the formation of the basalt and clay layers behind the Hengifoss waterfall. Not to mention, the strips make your pictures several times more beautiful than most other pictures you will take.

Not far from Hengifoss is Litlanesfoss waterfall – another gorgeous beauty with a little bit of basalt magic going on the side. Litlanesfoss is about 30 meters tall and has two separate drops, the first one being smaller than the second one. Litlanesfoss is surrounded by hexagonal basalt columns which can be found at many other places in the country but scarcely anywhere else in the world. However, basalt columns near Litlanesfoss are some of the tallest ones you will see even in Iceland as they go over 20 meters in height. The trail that leads to Hengifoss is the same one that goes to Litlanesfoss. You will pass the smaller waterfall – Litlanesfoss first and then reach Hengifoss after that. Although, if you can find the right angle, you will be able to click a few pictures of Litlanesfoss with Hengifoss peeping from behind. All in all, getting to visit two marvelous waterfalls on a single hike is a sweet deal for every nature lover out there.

• Hengifoss waterfall
• Litlanesfoss waterfall
• Hike to Litlanesfoss & Hengifoss waterfalls

Seyðisfjörður

With its rainbow high street and the unique blue-colored church, Seyðisfjörður is a gorgeous little town located in the lap of a fjord that goes by the same name. There are about 668 people in this beautiful town of the fjords along with several beautiful waterfalls and mountains. Seyðisfjörður mainly functions on its fish and tourism industry which has been flourishing for the past few years after Iceland established itself as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Now, Seyðisfjörður has become a town that is all about the art and artists. The houses are painted in a very quirky manner and the town hosts one of the most popular art festivals of Iceland – LungA – an art festival that celebrates and represents the work of all young artists of Iceland. From concerts to exhibitions, art workshops, and fashion shows, there is basically everything that you would desire from a festival. Not only the tourists, but locals also attend this festival and several others that take place here in this city.

Seyðisfjörður also operates the ferry that travels to Scandinavia, so if you are traveling to Iceland by a ferry, you will most probably start your Iceland journey in Seyðisfjörður. Seyðisfjörður used to be the biggest center for whaling in Iceland before it was banned in the country due to the declining population of the whales. However, whalers, along with Norwegians, are the ones who are responsible for building the town the way it is today along with making it a hub. It also served as a base in world war 2 for the allied forces. There are a telecommunication museum and an art center in the town where you can learn a lot about the history of the town.

You can read more about Seyðisfjörður here. 

Egilsstaðir

Primarily a fishing town, Borgarfjörður Eystri is another small town in Iceland which has only 130 residents. A great place for hikers to visit, Borgarfjörður Eystri has many popular trails that are often frequented by tourists and locals with a knack for hiking. The town is surrounded by mountains with the rhyolite ones in the south and the basalt ones in the north. Stórurð , also known as ‘the giant boulder’ is the top hiking site near this town. Along with that, the town and its surroundings are also popular for being one of the best spots in the country for puffin watching.

Many popular Icelandic artists and painters like Johannes Kjarval calls the town of Borgarfjörður Eystri their home. The town several exhibitions and shows that feature the works of the said painter. If you miss the exhibitions or have other plans during that time then you can catch these and many other works in the Kjarvalssafn museum which features several other great pieces of art. A haven for the admirers of good music and public concerts, the town of Borgarfjörður Eystri hosts the Braedslan music festival which represents and features artists like Monsters, Men, Mugison, Belle & Sebastian, Damien Rice, and Emiliana Torrini. The festival was first celebrated in the year 2005 and has even won the Eyrarros award for outstanding cultural achievement in the countryside in 2010.

Something for the lovers of the modern and something for the lovers of the myths, the town of Borgarfjörður Eystri is also known for being the home of the elf queen. There is a huge rock outcrop just outside of the town known as Álfaborg meaning elf rock or elf castle. Tourists are often advised by the locals to go to the castle rock outcrop and pay their respects to the elf queen for good fortune and luck.

You can read more about Borgarfjörður Eystri here. 

Folaldafoss Waterfall

Folaldafoss Waterfall is one of the most attractive waterfalls in East Iceland, located close to Djúpavík village . There is a small monument of some sort near the waterfall as well which makes it a place worth visiting to have a time of your life. Folaldafoss Waterfall is 54 feet tall and has an additional 5-feet drop before finally plunging into the gorge. There over a dozen cliffs near the waterfall and the stream manages to squeeze through them and form this waterfall. You will find a little bit of moss on the cliff near the gorge which gives the whole landscape a very fresh and picturesque look. The mountains in the surrounding area of Folaldafoss are very unique and give the waterfall that special look that you have probably not seen before. 

You can read more about Folaldafoss here. 

Rjúkandi Waterfall

If detours are not something that you like to do then this beauty is the perfect place for you to visit. Rjúkandi waterfall is one of the very few waterfalls that one can see from the Ring Road itself. This waterfall is located in the Jökuldalur valley and can be experienced to the fullest once you walk a small path that leads to the waterfall from the main Ring Road. When you are about to reach the Rjúkandi waterfall, you will find that there are a lot of big and small waterfalls that are visible from the ring road. The overbearing number of these waterfalls is probably why Rjúkandi goes unnoticed by most travelers. Rjúkandi is about 305 feet high, 35 feet wide, and has 2 drops. It has a tiered horsetail form which makes it quite pleasing to the eye. The surrounding is filled with beautiful dark-colored rocks and lush green vegetation making it the perfect spot for relaxing and photography .

You can read more about Rjúkandi waterfall here. 

Fauskasandur Black Sand Beach

A hidden gem even for a part of the country which is known for its lesser-known and traveled destinations, Fauskasandur black sand beach is a true marvel that does not get much recognition as it deserves. Fauskasandur is best known for the giant rock that stands in the middle of the beach, a little inside the water. The rock or the cliff has a little bit of vegetation growing out of it which creates a great contrast with the rest of the dark demeanor of the rock. With white foamy waves crashing on the gorgeous black sand of the beach and the enormous monolith, Fauskasandur proves to be a very scenic place for general visits or photoshoots.

You can read more about Fauskasandur Black Sand Beach here. 

Stokksnes Peninsula

Last but not least, this peninsula of east Iceland houses some of the most wonderful and picturesque tourist destinations of the country which is why it is generally frequented by a lot of photographers. From the most breath-taking mountains of the country to the gorgeous black sand beaches, lagoons, and sky-high cliffs, there is very little that you won’t find here. Vestrahorn from the horny mountain range is the most popular attraction on the Stokksnes peninsula . The whole landscape looks something straight out of a painting and unreal. You will have to visit it first hand in order to finally believe your eyes. The black sand beach on the peninsula is located on a private property which is why there is a small maintenance fee for entrance but it will be worth your while. The dunes of sand with a bunch of dried grass peeping from here and there and the gorgeous Vestrahorn mountain in the background will help you understand why solitude is such a popular thing. 

You can read more about Stokksnes here. 

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

Posted on Published: July 5, 2021  - Last updated: July 30, 2024

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.

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.

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

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, immersive 8-day ring road, highlands and snaefellsnes peninsula tour from reykjavik, attractions nearby.

Sveinstekksfoss Waterfall

Berufjordur

Teigarhorn Nature Preserve and Natural Monument

Djupivogur Lighthouse

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The Ultimate 5-Day Iceland Itinerary: Must-See Sights and Hidden Gems

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 01/09/2024

Many people dream of seeing the natural wonders that are dispersed around the nordic nation, Iceland. From bursts of green, orange and red twinkling in the sky, volcanic marvels and green fjords, Iceland captures the imaginations of adventurers from all scenes of the world.

Did you know that it would only take you 12-13 hours to drive around the entire country of Iceland? This essentially means travellers can see all parts of the country in a short number of days – as you will see in this 5 day itinerary Iceland.

This Iceland vacation itinerary will lead you around the awe-inspiring coastal cliffs and mythical mountains to discover the most iconic and cherished parts of Iceland.

Let’s explore what a 5-day itinerary for Iceland entails, and the wonders that you’ll unearth along the way. And be sure to check out my post on everything you need to know before visiting Iceland , to be well prepared.

5 Day Itinerary Iceland: How to Get to there and How to Get Around

If you are flying into Iceland from abroad, you’ll arrive at the Keflavík International Airport (KEF), located 50-minutes from Reykjavik. The capital city also has an airport, but it only services domestic flights or flights to Greenland.

⇒ Flights to Reykjavik

Keflavik Airport is also only about half an hour from the Blue Lagoon . This is why most visitors tend to visit the Blue Lagoon on the first or last day of their trips. In this 5 day itinerary Iceland, I have suggested visiting the Blue Lagoon on the last day of your vacation.

⇒ Don’t miss reading My Guide to the Blue Lagoon and is the Premium Package Worth it?

Getting from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik

The airport shuttle service provides fly buses that will take you to Reykjavik. You can choose your hotel as a drop-off point or the central bus terminal (BSI terminal) in the city centre. 

There are 2 companies that run airport buses . You can buy tickets for the Flybus onboard Icelandair flights. Grayline is the other company.

⇒ Save Money & Time – Book Your Transfer from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik

Getting around Iceland

Without question, the best way to see Iceland is to Hire a Car.  Not only will it save you a fortune it is the best way to see most of the sites in 3 days in Iceland. Most of the key sites are free eg the Golden Circle so if you have a car costs drop dramatically – especially if you are with a group. And do make sure to check the weather in Iceland for a road trip for the time of year that you will be visiting.

And if you are going to hire a car for your Iceland trip then the best option is to pick it up at Keflavik airport. This will save you the transfer cost between the airport and Reykjavik. This is one of my top travel tips for Iceland .

5 Day Iceland Travel Itinerary: Day 1: The Golden Circle Tour

The Golden Circle tour is Iceland’s most popular day trip. This is generally a full day tour which departs from Reykjavik around 8am and returns at 5pm. If your flight is arriving a bit later you can opt for an afternoon tour  around the Golden Circle.

The core of the Golden Circle tour is the following 3 activities

Pingvellir National Park

Pronounced Thingvellir in English, the park is a UNESCO world heritage site and holds historical significance – it’s the location where Iceland’s first parliament was held.

Thingvellir National Park is located 40-minutes from Reykjavik and has several attractions. It’s geologically unique, where you can see a continental divide between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

In the southern part of the park lies the largest natural lake in Iceland, the Thingvallavtn (Pingvallavatn). You can dive or go snorkelling here, or simply enjoy the scenery.

Geysir Thermal Area

After exploring the park, it’ll be a 40-minute drive to the Geysir thermal area. “Geysir” is a geyser in the geothermal area along the Golden Circle. Get your cameras ready to snap pictures of bubbling mud pots, springs shooting up boiling water and steaming air from the earth.

Along the way, before you arrive at the Geysir, you’ll pass by a lovely farm restaurant, the Efstidalur II, that provides some delicious foods.

Gullfoss Waterfalls

Just a quick 10-minute drive from Geysir is one of Iceland’s most iconic falls found in the Hvítá glacial river. It’s a wide, two-tiered waterfall that cascades down a 32-meter drop. For me this was the most stunning waterfall in Iceland.

There are several viewpoints where you can take pictures from. Be mindful that you should wear waterproof clothing and shoes when exploring these spectacular natural wonders.

Boutique Hotels in Reykjavik

Reykjavik has a fantastic boutique hotel scene with some great high end design options as well as some interesting concept hotels.

The classic Reykjavik boutique hotel is Hotel Borg . This was essentially Iceland’s first boutique hotel and is still modern in style and delivering on luxury. It also has a fantastic location on Austurvöllur Square, home to Reykjavik’s unique cathedral.

⇒ Read more Reviews on TripAdvisor ⇒ Book Now

101 Reykjavik is a member of the Design Hotels group and is all about sleek and minimalist black and white design. It features the work of local artists and a very stylish bar.

Normally I would never recommend staying at a hostel. However, Reykjavik has two unique hostel concepts and staying at these may give you more cash to enjoy Icelandic lobster.

Kex is the Icelandic word for biscuit. This really has nothing to do with anything but this is the perfect place to stay for solo travelers who like a bit of luxury. They have a fantastic bar and restaurant with live music and wine prices that are dirt cheap for Reykjavik.

They offer singles and doubles (as well as dorms – shudder) which are simple in design but still clean and stylish as this is Iceland.

The second hostel option is the Galaxy Luxury Pod Hotel . This is luxurious budget accommodation (I think that is an oxymoron but will continue). The only option here is a dorm room but instead of a bunk bed you will have your own enclosed pod. And there is a virtual reality gaming room.

If you’re looking to keep all of your cash for full on day trips and Icelandic lamb Air bnb have loads of properties in Reykjavik so this could be a great way to experience real Iceland.

Iceland Trip Itinerary Day 2: Bláfjöll Country Park and Reykjavik South Coast

Upon arriving in Bláfjöll Country Park, you’ll have a couple of hours to spend discovering one of Iceland’s secret natural gems, the Þríhnúkagígur volcano.

After the awe-inspiring venture, drive to the south coast of Reykjavik, where you’ll spot incredible natural attractions and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Bláfjöll Country Park

Begin your second day in Iceland by driving 20km to the east of Reykjavik, where you’ll arrive in Bláfjöll Country Park in the late morning. One of Iceland’s greatest natural phenomenons, an empty volcanic magma chamber of Þríhnúkagígur volcano, is found here.

The tour to the chambers or Inside the Volcano begins with a 3km hike, followed by a cable cart ride that descends 120m into the heart of the dormant volcano.

After the thrilling experience in the scarlet, orange volcano, drive to the small town of Hveragerði, nicknamed the earthquake town. There are supermarkets and a cafe here – the perfect place to grab some food for fueling your adventures.

Reykjavik South Coast

The scenic drive from Bláfjöll Country Park to the south coast will take you around 5 hours, depending on the weather. You’ll most likely arrive in the late evening.

Locals and international travellers are continuously blown away by the beauty that’s found along the south coast of Reykjavik.

Many travellers choose to explore the area in different ways. Embark on a group driving tour or drive around the area and find the beauty yourself. You’ll spot dried lava fields, breathtaking cliff sides and quaint fishing villages.

Check out my article on things to do on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

If you’re travelling during winter, as the night starts to fall, take a drive to the edge of Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon . You might get lucky and see the celebrated Northern Lights.

If you’re interested in seeing the Northern Lights I highly recommend staying at Hotel Ranga in Hella. This is one of the two best Iceland Northern Lights hotel options to stay in – in my opinion.

⇒ Read Reviews of Hotel Ranga Iceland on TripAdvisor ⇒ Book Now

Iceland Travel Itinerary: Day 3: Egilsstadir & the East Fjords

On the third day of your itinerary for Iceland, you’ll be venturing out to the quintessential town of Egilsstadir. The 4-hour drive to the town will reward you an array of waterfall sightings, mountainous landscapes and jagged fjords.

Egilsstadir

The town of Egilsstadir is split by Iceland’s largest river, Lagarfljót. It’s in these waters that it’s believed the Loch Ness monster lived. Use this visit as an opportunity to discover the culture, food and folklore found in the east of Iceland.

These parts of Iceland are also the only regions where you’ll spot wild reindeer roaming around. The tree-covered grounds are also particularly rare on the island and a great place to go for a light stroll is at the Hallormsstaðaskógur National Forest .

The East Fjords

The east fjords are known globally for their wild beauty, and often the scene of Viking inspired movies and series. Charming fishing villages and glaciers surround the steep cliffs that are nestled along the coast.  And they’re often complemented with thundering waterfalls and crystal clear bodies of water.

Boutique Hotels in Egilsstadir

Hotel 1001 Nott is a luxury family-owned hotel on a quiet lake about 4km from Egilsstadir. Every room has floor to ceiling windows and contemporary and modern design.

The restaurant at Hotel 1001 Nott also has floor to ceiling windows to take advantage of the beautiful vistas – and it is well known for its reindeer burgers.

Or why not stay at an Icelandic farmhouse? Hotel Eyvindara is another family-run hotel just 2 km from Egilsstadir. Many of their simple and modern rooms also have private balconies. Their restaurant serves a mix of Icelandic and international dishes.

Iceland Travel Itinerary: Day 4: Husavik & Akureyri

A leisurely drive of around 3 hours will take you from Egilsstadir to the coastal town Husavik, which is famous for whale-watching and for its role in the fantastic Eurovision Song Contest Film: The Story of Fire Saga .

Given that the main spectacle is the chance to watch whales breaching over the water, try to leave Eglisstadir as early as possible to reach Husavik, and then Akureyri.

Thousands of travellers are drawn to Husavik to catch the chance of spotting whales. On the traditional whale tour , you’ll also often encounter the harbour porpoise, the titanic blue whale and plenty of white-beaked dolphins.

Once you’ve gotten your thrill of seeing the sea life, visit the Exploration Museum and Whale Museum , to discover even more weird and wonderful facts about these sea creatures.

An hours drive from Husavik is Akureyri, the second largest town of Iceland which holds a vibrant, bustling population. And with a city this big, an exciting array of activities await you.

Consider doing something you’ve probably never done before, visit an arctic botanical garden. The garden encompasses every flower species native to Iceland, and fairy-like paths will lead you through the wonderful scenery. Entrance is free, a nice bonus.

End of the day by dining at Strikið , one of the best restaurants in the country. The classy establishment shows off views of the surrounding fjords. Those brave enough for the cold can choose to enjoy their meal of the terrain with even better views.

Spend the night in Akureyri before making your way back to Reykjavik.

Hotel Akureyri is a super cute and quirky boutique hotel with micro suites in downtown Akureyri. They have a mix of rooms that feature ocean views or sloping ceilings or private balconies.

Hotel Kea is located in the heart of Akureyri next to its famous church. Their 104 rooms have contemporary wooden floorboards and modern interior design. They also have an excellent in house restaurant Mulaberg Bistro & bar.

Reykjavik Itinerary: Day 5: Back to Reykjavik to Explore the City and/or visit the Blue Lagoon

After a good night’s rest in Akureyri, start your morning bright and early, and journey back to Reykjavik. The drive will take you approximately 5 hours. This will be your last day to experience the capital of Iceland.

Depending on the time of your flight, you may well be able to explore Reykjavik and visit the world-famous Blue Lagoon on your way to Keflavik airport.

If you are short on time I would recommend prioritizing a visit to the Blue Lagoon. Reykjavik is a very cute town with lots of atmosphere but the Blue Lagoon is a genuinely unique experience that you won’t encounter elsewhere.

City Life in Reykjavik

Start your day wandering along the streets and through the charming neighbourhood. Or venture to Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, which shows off the icy sea waters and views of Mount Esja in the background. Don’t miss the stunning Sun Voyager sculpture on the harbor.

There are plenty of museums that can be visited in the Icelandic capital. Choose between visiting the Saga Museum, the Maritime Museum or the National Museum of Iceland. A visit will most likely take you 1-2 hours, which leaves you with time to wander the lively streets.

Visit the tallest church in Iceland – the Hallgrimskirkja which has fantastic views over Reykjavik and if you’re a coffee-lover, pop into Reykjavik Roasters for a fantastic cup of coffee.

Blue Lagoon

After exploring Reykjavik, venture to the Blue Lagoon , which is one of the most popular things to do in Iceland. The man-made lagoon, which features milky blue waters, is supplied by warm waters from Svartsengi, the nearby geothermal power plant. Travellers enjoy taking dips in the water or venturing the spa and resort.

It’s recommended you book a ticket in advance to skip the queues to get into the Blue lagoon. This is a must-do during your 5 day Itinerary Iceland and a perfect way to finish your vacation.

Blue Lagoon is a 50-minute drive from the city centre. You can take Reykjanesbraut, Highway 42, through to Grindavíkurvegur, Highway 43, and then simply follow the signs to Blue Lagoon and then drive on to Keflavik airport once you’ve finished.

The Blue Lagoon is open from 8 am – 8 pm, and ticket prices will vary depending on the time.

Best Time to Visit Iceland

While it’s not a problem to visit Iceland all-year-round, different seasons provide different opportunities for travellers.

5 days in Iceland during summer is always going to be great for outdoor adventure tours and hikes through the wildlife. Summer will last from June to August, and it’s one of the most popular times for visiting the country.

However, the shorter days in the winter months will create a better opportunity to see the glorious Northern Lights. You can also spend more time visiting museums, cosying up by the fire and galavanting in the snowy forests. September to mid-April are the coldest months in Iceland.

Things to Know before you go to Iceland

⇒ If you have not hired a 4 WD car check in with your hotel on where you are going to make sure that your car will be ok. Quite a few roads are 4WD only and they show up quickly.

⇒ There is no need to buy a SIM card for Iceland. Indeed my UK provider Vodafone covered me under my normal UK plan.

⇒ Also, there is wifi virtually everywhere in Iceland and it is almost always free. This is from the hotels to the major tourist attractions.

⇒ You can save a lot of money by  grabbing your lunch at a supermarket.  The supermarkets in Iceland are great – loads of good quality produce.

⇒ Icelandic chocolate is also delicious. We also bought crisps, dips etc at the supermarket for pre-dinner snacks. A key item you must try whilst in Iceland is the national yoghurt Skyr .

⇒ Wine is very expensive in Iceland. However, there are several ways around this. Firstly when you arrive in Iceland and go to baggage claim there is a giant duty and tax-free store . Iceland is I believe the only place in the world to have shopping that is both tax and duty-free.

⇒ Virtually everywhere in Iceland accepts cards – even the toilets. This is much easier than dealing with cash. It is also quite easy to pay individually when you are in a group.

Get Ready to Embark on a 5 Day Trip to Iceland

The strikingly beautiful landscapes in Iceland will leave you breathless, no matter how many times you’ve explored the nordic country. Fortunately, the country is so small; it allows travellers the opportunity to discover all the magical destinations and natural wonders.

Perhaps 5 days may be too long for you. If so, be sure to check out my best Iceland Itinerary for 3 days , which includes many fantastic ventures.

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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Where can I see the total solar eclipse on Aug. 12, 2026?

The total solar eclipse on Aug. 12, 2026, will pass over parts of Russia, Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and Spain.

Entire path of totality

• Spain and Portugal
• Mediterranean Sea

Additional resources

Bibliography.

Check out our solar eclipse live blog to keep up with the latest eclipse news and features.

On Aug. 12, 2026, Europe will experience its first total solar eclipse in 27 years. 

At the point of greatest eclipse, totality will last 2 minutes, 18 seconds — a relatively short time compared with the total solar eclipses in 2024 and 2027. For this solar eclipse , totality will be visible from remote parts of Russia, eastern Greenland, western Iceland and the Iberian Peninsula. Here's where to witness the August 2026 total solar eclipse from Russia, Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Portugal and the Mediterranean Sea.

Remember that it's unsafe to look directly at the sun during the partial phases of an eclipse. At all times except when the sun is completely blocked by the moon , you must wear solar eclipse glasses . Read our guide on how to observe the sun safely . 

This total solar eclipse will have a long and broad path, rising in remote Siberia and setting just east of the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea. That journey is 5,133 miles (8,260 kilometers), during which the moon's central umbral shadow will be 182 miles (293 km) wide and take 96 minutes to flash across the planet. 

Only a small portion of that path crosses land, with 15.2 million people — the vast majority in northern Spain — destined to witness totality that day, according to Time and Date . 

Related: 16 best places to see the 2026 total solar eclipse

Path of totality in Russia

The rise of this eclipse from a very remote part of the northern Siberian coast will be lonely. A totally eclipsed sun will be visible just above the northern horizon at 3:37 a.m. ANAT, as seen from Siberia's Taymyr Peninsula. Here, beside the Laptev Sea, the sun never sets during August, making the maximum 85 seconds of totality the darkest of the entire 24 hours. Few, if any, humans will witness it. As the path of totality heads across the Vilkitsky Strait into the Arctic Ocean, it will pass Severnaya Zemlya, an archipelago of usually ice-packed Arctic islands. 

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Related: Eclipse 2026: The next total solar eclipse will be Europe's 1st in 27 years  

Path of totality in Greenland

After rising in an uninhabited place, the path of totality will cross one of the least-populated nations on Earth . Just 56,000 people live in Greenland, and few, if any, live under the path of this eclipse, which curves through the east of this vast island, passing only the remote settlements of Mestersvig and Nyhavn in East Greenland. 

Just before the moon's shadow exits in southeastern Greenland, it will pass across almost all of Scoresby Sound, which will experience 1 minute, 45 seconds of totality, and depart at the Blosseville Coast. Expect multiple cruise ships to be in this region, where eclipse chasers on a once-in-a-lifetime Arctic trip will vie for views of totality among icebergs. From Scoresby and the Blosseville Coast, the totally eclipsed sun will hang about 26 degrees above the western horizon. 

Cruise itineraries that stay for a few nights will have a decent chance of seeing the northern lights after midnight, though the hours of darkness in August will be minimal.

Path of totality in Iceland

The "Land of Fire and Ice" will be an irresistible destination for eclipse chasers who want to pair totality with a range of other spectacles, including  volcanoes, waterfalls, long days and the chance to see the northern lights . Iceland's unpredictable weather could prove challenging for eclipse watching, but there are reasons to be hopeful. Beautiful days are possible in August, and the eclipse will happen late in the day there at about 25 degrees above the west-southwest horizon. That means you will have all day to choose a location along Iceland's western coast using Iceland's very detailed weather forecasts. 

Expect crowds at scenic spots along the west coast and cruise ships to depart the capital, Reykjavik, for the point of greatest eclipse, which will be 18 miles (30 km) off the coast. Reykjavik will get 59 seconds of totality; Garður Old Lighthouse on Reykjanes Peninsula will get 1 minute, 42 seconds; Snæfellsjökull on Snæfellsnes Peninsula will get 2 minutes, 5 seconds; and Látrabjarg in Iceland's Westfjords will get 2 minutes, 14 seconds, (the longest in the nation). 

Path of totality in Spain and Portugal

After crossing a few thousand miles of ocean, the eclipsed sun will arrive over Galicia on Spain's northwestern coast at 7:30 p.m. CEST . Maximum totality will occur between Canero and Luarca at 1 minute, 50 seconds. Over the next 7 minutes, 20 seconds, the moon's shadow will thread a needle through the country's north as it narrowly misses Madrid and Barcelona, both of which will see a 99% partial solar eclipse. 

The most important factor to consider when you're researching where to go in Spain is the altitude of the eclipse. Annoyingly, clouds are more likely in the places where the eclipse will be higher in the sky (northwestern Spain), and clear skies are expected where the sun will be low in the sky (eastern Spain). 

Just before sunset across the region, the eclipse will be a maximum of 10 degrees above the western horizon (from Galicia), and will sink to just a couple of degrees above the horizon by the time it reaches Spain's east coast at Valencia and Tarragona. That makes the latter a poor choice because mountains to the west will generally block the view of the eclipse. However, there are exceptions with expansive beaches, such as Parc Natural del Delta de l'Ebre in Tarragona.

A sweet spot may be around Palencia and Burgos in Castile and León, close to the centerline of the path in a region with both flat horizons and a high chance of clear skies. This central region also has dark rural skies, which may allow views of the Milky Way and the peak of the annual Perseid meteor shower on the night of Aug. 12.  

Although this is primarily an eclipse for northern Spain, a tiny area of Portugal will fall within the moon's shadow. Route N308, which runs from Rio de Onor to Guadramil, marks the southern edge of the path. Anywhere beyond that, in Portugal's extreme northeast, will experience totality for up to 27 seconds. 

Path of totality in the Mediterranean Sea

The best climate in the entire path of totality is found in the Mediterranean Sea, where the moon's shadow will depart the planet east of the Balearic Islands, an archipelago off eastern Spain. Tour groups and tourists will flock to Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands, where the sight of an eclipsed sun — complete with a golden corona — will be the prize just a degree or so above the ocean. Anywhere on the west coast will do, but Sant Elm will have the longest totality (1 minute, 36 seconds). Ibiza and Menorca are also good choices, although totality will be about 20 seconds shorter there. 

Want to look further ahead? You can find a concise summary of solar eclipses out to 2030 on NASA's eclipse website . Read more about solar and lunar eclipses on EclipseWise.com , a website dedicated to predictions of eclipses. See beautiful maps on eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler's GreatAmericanEclipse.com and interactive Google Maps on Xavier Jubier's eclipse website. You can find climate and weather predictions by meteorologist Jay Anderson on eclipsophile.com . 

Anderson, J. (May 2024). Eclipsophile: Total Solar Eclipse Aug. 12, 2026. Retrieved Jun. 4, 2024, from https://eclipsophile.com/tse2026/

Bakich, M. and Zeiler, M. (2022). Atlas Of Solar Eclipses 2020-2045. https://www.greatamericaneclipse.com/books/atlas-of-solar-eclipses-2020-to-2045

Espenak, F. Solar Eclipse Prime Page: Total Solar Eclipse of 2026 Aug. 12. Retrieved Jun. 4, 2024, from: https://eclipsewise.com/solar/SEprime/2001-2100/SE2026Aug12Tprime.html

Jubier, X. (n.d.). Solar eclipses: Interactive Google Maps. Retrieved Jun. 4, 2024, from http://xjubier.free.fr/en/site_pages/SolarEclipsesGoogleMaps.html

Time and Date. (n.d.). Aug. 12, 2026 Total Solar Eclipse. Retrieved Jun. 4, 2024 from https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/solar/2026-august-12

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: [email protected].

Jamie is an experienced science, technology and travel journalist and stargazer who writes about exploring the night sky, solar and lunar eclipses, moon-gazing, astro-travel, astronomy and space exploration. He is the editor of  WhenIsTheNextEclipse.com  and author of  A Stargazing Program For Beginners , and is a senior contributor at Forbes. His special skill is turning tech-babble into plain English.

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7 Cheapest East Coast Cities To Travel To In September 2024

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• The East Coast offers endless budget-friendly trip options in September, including national parks, hidden beaches, and bustling cities.
• Traveling to East Coast cities in the off-peak season like September allows for scoring great deals.
• Some of the cheapest East Coast cities in September 2024 include, Augusta, Boston, Myrtle Beach, Charleston, and many more.

America’s East Coast is vast, and it would take a lifetime to cover all the beautiful places worth visiting. From mountain hikes in East Coast National Parks to hidden gem beaches on Florida’s islands , the region has endless options for fun, unforgettable adventures. However, when it comes to bustling experiences, the East Coast’s world-class cities, which are adorned with iconic attractions, make it stand out.

Whether interested in exploring the rich history of Boston, swimming in some of the nicest beaches in Miami , or taking a trip to NYC’s Statue of Liberty and Staten Island, you will be spoiled for choice. September is a great time to explore the East Coast, as it’s the off-season in many of the cities, and therefore, you can easily score great deals on flights, accommodations, and excursions. Here are some of the cheapest East Coast cities to travel to in September 2024.

The average travel costs have been sourced from BudgetYourTrip .

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7 Augusta, Maine

The average cost of a one-week budget trip: $863.

One of the popular US vacation destinations where you can also retire , Augusta, the capital of Maine, was incorporated as a city in 1849 , but its history started in the 1600s when traders first came to the area.

Its rich history is evident in the many landmarks and museums that come with amazing exhibits. The city also boasts scenic hiking trails , vibrant markets, and a breathtaking art scene worth exploring.

It’s one of the cheapest East Coast cities to visit in September, which falls in the off-peak season, and hotels, which go on average for $193 per night per person, normally haven’t hiked their prices at this time of the year. This month is also one of the cheapest to fly to Augusta.

6 Orlando, Florida

The average cost of a one-week budget trip: $830.

With more than 18 theme parks, each guaranteeing thrilling experiences for every age, it’s easy to see why the City Beautiful is the Theme Park Capital of the World. Walt Disney World is the most popular destination, but beyond Disney, there are better things to do in Orlando , including the Wheel, Harry P. Leu Gardens, and Pirate’s Cove.

A vacation in Orlando, especially with kids, can be pretty pricey. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to keep your costs down, including choosing the right time to visit Orlando, which is also known for being America’s least walkable city (something to bear in mind if you're not coming in a car). In September, the hotel rates and flight costs are at their lowest, which makes it the most affordable time to tour this amazing city.

Learn expert-approved tips for saving money when visiting Orlando .

5 Boston, Massachusetts

The average cost of a one-week budget trip: $705.

Famous for its pioneering US history, Boston has a lot to offer, including a vibrant culture and culinary scene and access to multiple opportunities for outdoor recreation. It’s one of the most popular US cities, and you can discover more than a dozen historical landmarks along the Freedom Trail, one of Boston’s attractions that are very much worth the hype .

Normally, a one-week vacation in Boston costs $1,793 , which is lower than in other major cities like NYC and San Francisco. Besides, a budget traveler only needs around $705. You can reduce your travel costs to Boston by visiting in September, which is when it’s cheapest to fly and score an affordable room with great amenities.

4 Washington D.C.

The average cost of a one-week budget trip: $635.

Washington D.C.’s central role in American history makes it a melting pot of incredible museums, historical landmarks, and unforgettable cultural experiences. However, the U.S. capital is not all about history; the city guarantees diverse travel experiences, and whether a food lover or a nature enthusiast, it offers something for everyone.

You can visit the beautiful beaches near Washington D.C. or explore the gorgeous national parks in and around D.C . The U.S. capital does have a reputation for being a pricey place to live, but it’s definitely affordable as a travel destination. The Smithsonian museums, which are some of the most iconic attractions in the city, are all free to explore, and you will find plenty of other free things to do in DC .

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3 Miami, Florida

The average cost of a one-week budget trip: $602.

Miami is world-renowned for its beach scene, and you can never go wrong with the nicest beaches the locals prefer in the city . Extreme sports like jet skiing and flyboarding, as well as delicious food, are other incredible things Miami is known and famous for .

When it comes to travel costs, Miami can be quite expensive, but it can also be affordable. The city’s peak seasons are spring and fall when the weather is mild. With its off-season stretching from the beginning to the end of summer, September is a great time to enjoy some of the most affordable deals.

2 Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

The average cost of a one-week budget trip: $534.

Myrtle Beach is known for its breathtaking white-sand beaches, family-friendly atmosphere, and an incredible selection of golf courses. It’s considered one of the perfect family beach destinations in the U.S. with a fun-filled boardwalk, impressive amusement parks, and top-rated restaurants serving delicious seafood.

Summer is the high season in this city, making September a cheaper time to enjoy its scenic adventures. With flight tickets averaging $136 in September , it’s the cheapest time to fly to Myrtle Beach. Hotel prices, which usually average $180 per night and $1,257 for a one-week trip , go down at the end of August.

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1 Charleston, South Carolina

The average cost of a one-week budget trip: $483.

Charleston, South Carolina’s oldest and largest city, is famous for many things, including its charming architecture, cobblestone streets, and delicious Southern food. Travelers keep voting this Southern city best in the U.S. , thanks to its historic charm, vibrant cultural scene, and miles of pristine beaches.

Although it’s a year-round vacation spot, spring and fall are when the temperature is most comfortable, and unfortunately, these are the peak seasons. However, if you visit in September, before peak autumn visitors arrive, you can enjoy the cheapest yet beautiful travel experiences.

Charleston is beautiful but can get crowded in the high season. Try a tranquil and authentic experience in one of the scenic small towns in South Carolina that are great Charleston alternatives .

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Earthquake rattles buildings and nerves along the East Coast

An earthquake struck the East Coast of the United States on Friday morning, according to the U.S. Geological Survey, causing buildings to shake and rattling nerves from Maryland to Maine.

The USGS  measured the quake as a 4.8 temblor  with its epicenter near Lebanon, New Jersey. It struck a little before 10:30 a.m. ET.

The earthquake was the strongest recorded in the Northeast in more than a decade,  according to USGS records .

There were no immediate reports of major destruction or any fatalities. Local and regional officials from cities in the earthquake zone said inspections had been launched to ensure that buildings, bridges and other infrastructure were not damaged.

Follow here for live updates on the earthquake.

James Pittinger, mayor of Lebanon, New Jersey, called the earthquake “the craziest thing I’ve ever experienced.”  In an interview with MSNBC , he said he had not received reports of any significant damage so far, but added that the shaking caused his dog to run for cover and objects to fall off his shelves.

While a 4.8-magnitude temblor is not considered a major earthquake, even minor shaking can cause damage on the East Coast, which does not take similar precautions as other earthquake hot spots around the world.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said the quake was felt across the state.

“My team is assessing impacts and any damage that may have occurred, and we will update the public throughout the day,” she  wrote on X .

New York City Mayor Eric Adams said in an afternoon news briefing that no major injuries or impacts to infrastructure were reported, and that people in the city should “go about their normal day.”

Ground stops were temporarily issued at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey and John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City, according to the Federal Aviation Administration’s website.

The Port Authority Transit Corp., which operates a rapid transit route between Pennsylvania and New Jersey, suspended service in the aftermath of the quake.

“Crews will inspect the integrity of the line out of an abundance of caution,” PATCO  said in an update on X . “Once inspection is complete, service will resume. No timeframe. Updates to follow.”New York’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority said that there had been no impact to its service but that teams will be inspecting train lines. New Jersey Transit alerted riders of  20-minute delays  due to bridge inspections following the earthquake.

While earthquakes in the northeast U.S. are rare, Buffalo, New York, was  struck by a 3.8-magnitude quake in February 2023  — the strongest recorded in the area in 40 years.

A 4.1-magnitude earthquake struck the tristate area in 2017, centered near Little Creek, Delaware,  according to the U.S. Geological Survey . And before that, a 5.8-magnitude quake  shook central Virginia in 2011,  and was felt across much of the East Coast, forcing hundreds of thousands people to evacuate buildings in New York, Washington and other cities.

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy  said in a post on X  that the state has activated its emergency operations center and asked the public not to call 911 unless they are experiencing an emergency.

Frederik J. Simons, a professor of geosciences at Princeton University, told NBC News that the earthquake occurred on a shallow fault system in New Jersey and shook for about 35 seconds.

“The shallower or the closer it is, the more we feel it as humans,” he said.

The quake originated at a depth of less than 3 miles,  according to the USGS . 

Earthquakes on the East Coast can be felt at a great distance and can cause more pronounced shaking in comparison to those on the West Coast because rocks in the region are often older, harder and more dense.  “These are competent rocks that transmit energy well,” Simons said.

The earthquake ruptured on the Ramapo fault system, Simons said. The system is relatively old and considered mostly tectonically inactive. It’s at a boundary where the continental and oceanic tectonic plates meet and are stuck together. The plates grind against one another slowly and accumulate stress until something slips.

“There are cracks in it and now and then a little motion accumulates, the stress keeps growing, at very slow rates,” he said. “It’s like an old house creaking and groaning.”

Simons said this was one of the largest earthquakes in New Jersey in recent history. The last notable one was a magnitude-3.1 temblor in Freehold Township in September 2020. 

“I’m on campus at Princeton University for the biggest one I’ve felt in a lifetime,” he said. “This shaking was violent, strong and long.”

Some video captured the moment of the earthquake, including one coffee shop in New Jersey.

This story first appeared on NBCNews.com.

Evan Bush is a science reporter for NBC News.

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