Akureyri may be Iceland’s unofficial capital of the north, but it’s not just about big landscapes and icy fjords. This charming town offers plenty of walking opportunities that reveal local stories, flavors, and even film fame. For those who enjoy exploring on foot, Akureyri’s compact size makes it ideal for immersive tours. A few favorites stand out: the Húsavík walking tour that introduces the oldest settlement in Iceland, and the Eurovision-inspired Husavík walk that combines film nostalgia with local sights. We also love how some tours blend city strolls with whale watching or food tastings, giving you a well-rounded experience. Whether you want to wander historic streets or follow in the footsteps of movie stars, there’s something for every type of traveler.
If you’re looking to fill a short visit with a meaningful walk, the local guides are eager to show you their favorite spots—and share stories you won’t find in a guidebook. Now, let’s explore the six best walking tours in Akureyri, each offering a unique angle on this delightful Icelandic town.
1. Húsavík walking tour
At number one is the Húsavík walking tour, which, despite the name, takes you through the charming town of Húsavík in Iceland’s north. This 1 to 1.5-hour tour is perfect if you’re interested in a quick, insightful peek into Iceland’s oldest settlement. The local guide, Gunnar, will introduce you to the town’s rich history — including a visit to the house built by Swedish explorer Garðar Svavarsson around 870 AD — and its contemporary culture.
The tour hits highlights like the town’s wooden church, Husavikurkirkja, and the town gardens with small wooden bridges perfect for photos. Notably, you’ll walk past the oldest house in Iceland, giving a tangible sense of the country’s early days. The viewpoints along the way make this tour visually satisfying, especially if you’re a fan of scenic photo ops. The modest price ($23) makes it a great value for a well-rounded introduction.
Guests praise the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, with one reviewer saying, “Gunnar was a very nice and good guide. We walked ca 1h 15min in Húsavík and he told us about the history and buildings.” Because of its short duration and intimate setting, this tour is ideal for those with limited time or who prefer a relaxed, personal experience.
Bottom Line: A quick, informative stroll that uncovers the essence of Húsavík’s origins and local charm, perfect for history buffs and first-time visitors.
2. The Story of Fire Saga Eurovision: Netflix Husavík Walking Tour
Jumping into more playful territory, number two is the Eurovision: The Story of Fire Saga walking tour. This 90-minute adventure is built around the filming locations of the Netflix hit, making it a must for fans and curious travelers alike. The tour takes you through Husavík’s most iconic spots, like the town harbor, where scenes from the movie were shot, and the Húsavíkurkirkja, the town’s picturesque church.
Guided explanations along the way enrich your movie experience, revealing fun facts about how the film was made and the real-life locations that inspired the scenes. The highlight is visiting the Jaja Ding Dong bar on Husavík cape, with sweeping views over the harbor—plus the possibility of meeting elves, because why not? The tour’s $88 price reflects its combination of sightseeing, storytelling, and movie trivia, making it a memorable outing.
Reviews highlight the guide’s enthusiasm and depth of knowledge, with comments like, “A fabulous guide who was able to give a good tour around Husavík and some great insight to the making of the movie.” If you’re a fan of the film or enjoy quirky guided walks, this tour offers a lively, engaging way to explore Husavík’s film fame.
Bottom Line: A fun, film-focused walk that blends local sights with Hollywood storytelling, ideal for movie buffs and those wanting a playful experience.
3. Akureyri: Food Walk and Whale Watching Tour
Number three on our list combines two favorite Icelandic pastimes: tasting local cuisine and spotting whales. This full-day tour offers a 6-hour adventure—perfect if you want a deep dive into Akureyri’s flavors and natural wonders. The tour begins with a guided food walk through the town, where you’ll sample dishes from five top restaurants. Think fresh fish, Icelandic lamb, and local specialties that highlight the region’s culinary traditions.
After the tastings, the tour transitions to a whale watching trip in Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord. The boat ride is designed to be comfortable and sustainable, with a chance to see humpbacks, minke whales, and playful harbor porpoises. The combination of food and wildlife makes this tour stand out, especially for travelers eager to experience both culture and nature in one go.
While the price isn’t specified, the value lies in the combination of experiences and expert guidance. Expect to learn about Akureyri’s fishing heritage and local life, making the tour ideal for curious travelers who love trying regional dishes and wildlife encounters.
Bottom Line: An all-in-one day trip perfect for those who want to taste Icelandic food and see whales, with the added bonus of guided insights into Akureyri’s maritime history.
4. Akureyri: Food Walk With 5 Tastings and Local Guide
For a shorter, more intimate experience, number four offers a 3-hour food walk with a local guide. This tour focuses on 4-5 local restaurants and hidden spots, giving you a taste of traditional Icelandic cuisine. Tasting everything from Icelandic free-roaming lamb and fresh fish to Icelandic ice cream, you get a well-rounded culinary snapshot of Akureyri.
The guide provides fun facts and stories about Iceland’s food culture, making the experience both delicious and informative. This tour is especially suited for travelers who want a relaxed, food-focused outing that dives into the local dining scene without the long hours. Guests have raved about the generous portions and overall value, with one reviewer saying, “All five stops were delicious and bigger portions than we imagined.”
This tour balances local authenticity with a friendly guide, making it perfect for food lovers, first-timers, or anyone eager to discover Iceland’s culinary scene in a social setting.
Bottom Line: A tasty and engaging way to explore Akureyri’s food scene in a manageable timeframe, highly recommended for foodies.
5. Akureyri Private Walking Tour
Number five is the private walking tour of Akureyri, offered at $144 per person. This tour is tailored to your interests, with a local guide leading you through key sights like Höfnin, Ráðhústorg, the Akureyri Church, and the Lystigarður botanical garden. It lasts around 2 hours, providing a personalized overview of the city’s layout, architecture, and stories.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility; you can focus on specific interests, whether that’s local history, architecture, or hidden corners. The guide’s insights help bring Akureyri’s character to life, making it perfect for travelers who want a bespoke experience. The itinerary includes a café stop, adding a chance to relax and chat about the city’s culture.
Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the ability to customize the tour to their pace. Because it’s private, it’s suited for couples, families, or small groups seeking an in-depth, tailored introduction.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for travelers who want a flexible, personalized walk through Akureyri, and willing to pay a premium for tailored insights.
$144 per person
6. From Akureyri Port: City Walk & Local Food
Rounding out the list is the City Walk & Local Food experience, a 3-hour tour designed for cruise passengers and short-term visitors. Starting from the harbor (Hafnarstræti), your guide will lead you through the city center, sharing stories about Akureyri’s history and culture while visiting 3-4 local restaurants. Expect to sample regional dishes and learn about the town’s culinary traditions.
This tour offers a good balance of sight-seeing and tasting, making it a practical choice for travelers arriving by cruise or those with limited time. The focus on local cuisine and cultural stories helps provide a well-rounded snapshot of Akureyri in a manageable timeframe. Reviews praise the guide’s friendliness and the quality of the tastings, emphasizing the tour’s value for money.
It’s perfect for those who want to quickly familiarize themselves with the town’s food scene and cultural highlights without committing to a full day.
Bottom Line: A convenient, flavorful introduction to Akureyri’s food and culture, especially suitable for cruise passengers or short visits.
$131 per person
How to Choose the Best Walking Tour in Akureyri
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, timeframe, and what kind of experience you’re after. If you’re keen on a quick cultural overview, the Húsavík walking tour offers a compact, historical intro. For film fans, the Eurovision walk brings movie magic to life. Those who love food should consider the food walks, especially the Food Walk With 5 Tastings, which combines culinary delights with local stories.
If your schedule is tight but you want privacy and customization, the Private Walking Tour gives you flexibility. Travelers interested in wildlife should check out the Whale Watching and Food Tour for a full-day adventure. And for cruise visitors, the From Akureyri Port walk provides a quick, tasty overview.
Remember to consider your fitness level, interests, and how much time you want to spend. Booking early is advisable during peak season, especially for tours with limited availability or private options.
Final Thoughts
Akureyri offers a surprising variety of walking experiences that showcase its history, film fame, culinary scene, and natural beauty. Short options like the Húsavík tour are great for a quick taste, while longer or combined trips—such as food plus whale watching—are perfect for those wanting a fuller day. The private tour provides a personalized touch, ideal for couples or families seeking tailored insights.
No matter which tour you choose, exploring on foot allows you to see the town’s charming streets and meet the friendly locals. Make sure to book early, particularly for popular tours or during the busy summer months. With such a range of options, you’re sure to find a walk that makes your visit to Akureyri memorable.
Feel free to pick the tour that matches your interests and schedule—Akureyri’s walking options are ready to show you its heart, one step at a time.