Why Ísafjörður Should Be on Your Arctic Bucket List: Things to do in Ísafjörður

Ísafjörður, meaning ice fjord in English, is a small town located in the Westfjords of Iceland along Skutulsfjörður. This area was first settled in the 9th century and is one of the most populated areas in the Westfjords today, with a population of around 2700 people as of 2023. 

Over the centuries, Ísafjörður grew into a trading post around the 16th century and further expanded into a fishing hub around the mid-19th century. It gained municipality status in 1786. Today, it is a bustling little town that attracts visitors, particularly those who circle the country on a cruise. The town is accessible by car, plane, and boat. If you’re considering the Westfjords as part of your Iceland adventure, Ísafjörður is well worth spending a little time in. When you rent a car in Iceland, you can spend as much time exploring the area as you wish, whether you drive through or decide to spend a couple of days.

Getting to Ísafjörður

Because many visitors stick to areas close to the Ring Road, Ísafjörður isn’t a widely traveled destination in Iceland. However, this factor makes it attractive to those who wish to get away from the larger crowds and experience a more rustic environment. There are several ways you can get to Ísafjörður if it’s on your list.

By Car

If you’re renting a car for your visit, you can drive to Ísafjörður by leaving the Ring Road at Route 60, north of Reykjavik. The drive is about 420 kilometers through the scenic Icelandic landscape. It’s best to drive the Westfjords during the summer as the roads can be icy and snow-covered in the winter. Always check road conditions and weather before deciding whether it’s safe to drive.

By Plane

Another option for visiting Ísafjörður is to fly from the Reykjavik domestic airport. This short flight will give you a fantastic overhead view of the country and get you safely to the Westfjords, even during the winter months.

By Boat

During the summer months, cruises circle Iceland, giving visitors a quick overview of the country with strategic stops along the way. One of those stops is typically in Ísafjörður. If you want to see a sampling of numerous areas of the country, a cruise can be an excellent choice.

What to Do in Ísafjörður, Iceland

Once you decide to spend time in the Westfjords, particularly Ísafjörður, the next thing to do is explore the things to do in Ísafjörður to round out your itinerary. Even though this area of the country is more isolated than many others, there are still exciting things to do, some of which you can’t find in other parts of the country.

Wesfjords Heritage Museum

The Westfjords Heritage Museum, or Byggðasafn Vestfjarða in Icelandic, is located just outside Ísafjörður in Neðstikaupstaður in a building that was built in the 18th century. The museum is open daily from May 16 until September 15 and can be visited by appointment during the winter. 

The museum features exhibits highlighting the rich maritime history in the area, along with its urbanization in the 20th century. It’s an excellent way to get insight into how the town has developed and changed over the years.

Ísafjörður Culture House

The Ísafjörður Culture House is found in the old hospital and houses several exhibits and museums under one roof, giving visitors insight into the local culture. You can enjoy photography and art exhibits, the Ísafjörður library, and regional archives that all provide a look into the culture and history of the Westfjords.

The Ísafjörður Culture House is open every weekday and on Saturdays. There is even a specific section for children, making it an excellent stop for visitors of all ages.

Kayaking

If you don’t want to spend your time visiting museums, Ísafjörður offers plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Kayaking is an excellent way to see the fjords from a different perspective while adding a little adventure to your trip. You can also expect to see seals and sea birds as you paddle along in the kayak.

A Day Trip to Hornstrandir

For those who will spend more time in Ísafjörður, taking a day trip to Hornstrandir Nature Reserve can be a perfect way to spend a day. This remote area is only accessible by boat, giving visitors a glimpse into the untouched nature of the Westfjords. You’ll find many hiking trails to enjoy and the opportunity to see the Arctic fox.

For those who visit in the summer and want a little more adventure, multi-day trips to Hornstrandir are also possible. Visitors can hike and camp throughout the region, enjoying the remote nature of the area with unmatched views. Be sure to file your travel plan with SafeTravel.is to ensure your safety.

Hiking and Biking

You don’t have to venture to Hornstrandir to enjoy the outdoors during your stay in Ísafjörður. There are plenty of hiking and biking paths around the town, giving outdoor adventurers plenty to do. 

For instance, individuals looking for a scenic hike will enjoy hiking Naustahvilft, a bowl-like mountain ridge that is also called a troll seat. This hike isn’t long, but it is challenging. There are also several mountain biking paths that accommodate various difficulties.

Ísafjörður may be a small, remote town, but it is still worth the visit if you want to experience Iceland in a new way. The Westfjords offers a fantastic glimpse into the natural beauty of Iceland that many people overlook in favor of traveling the main Ring Road.

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