CME Cruises Visiting Akureyri, Iceland

Nestled at the head of Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord, Akureyri is a surprisingly green and vibrant town that serves as the gateway to the spectacular natural wonders of the north. While often called Iceland's 'second city,' it's best understood not as a metropolis, but as a charming and highly walkable base for profound encounters with nature. The town itself is a pleasure to explore on foot. A short walk from the pier leads to the town center, where you can ascend the steps to the iconic Akureyrarkirkja, a Lutheran church whose commanding presence offers fine views over the fjord. Nearby, the Akureyri Botanical Garden is a peaceful oasis and one of the northernmost botanical gardens in the world, showcasing a remarkable collection of arctic and temperate flora. However, Akureyri’s primary value for most visitors lies in the world-class excursions it enables. The most popular is a trip to Goðafoss, the ‘Waterfall of the Gods,’ a powerful and historically significant cascade that is both beautiful and easily accessible. For those with a full day, the Lake Mývatn region is an unforgettable journey into a geothermal wonderland of bubbling mud pots, surreal lava formations at Dimmuborgir, and vast volcanic craters. The Mývatn Nature Baths offer a more tranquil, less crowded alternative to the Blue Lagoon. For a marine adventure, whale watching tours depart directly from the harbor. The calm, nutrient-rich waters of Eyjafjörður are one of the world's most reliable places to see humpback whales, often just a short boat ride from port. Akureyri provides the perfect balance: a delightful town experience combined with direct access to some of Iceland’s most essential landscapes.