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Best things to do in Akureyri

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Where in the world: Europe  /  Iceland  /  Northeast Region  /  Akureyri

Top 15 things to do in Akureyri

1. Goðafoss Waterfall

Also known as "The Fall of the Gods," Goðafoss Waterfall represents a magnificent horseshoe-shaped waterfall and a favorite of many tourists. The waterfall represents the point in time where the Heathens of Iceland made the choice to convert to Christianity and allegedly threw all their idols over the falls. Spanning a width of 30 m (98 ft) and reaching 12 m (39 ft) high, this natural masterpiece is worth spending a few minutes on. Check out the gift shop where traditional Icelandic wool items are reasonably priced.
Suggested duration: 2 hours
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3. Akureyri Botanical Garden

Wander the paths of Akureyri Botanical Garden, where you can admire the flowers and plants of Iceland. At 3.7 hectares (9 acres), there is enough for you to explore without feeling overwhelmed. Note the fountains scattered throughout the gardens and duck into the well-maintained greenhouses. The garden's cafe comes highly recommended and offers gluten-free menu options, among other things.
Suggested duration: 2 hours
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5. Mt. Namafjall (Namaskard), Lake Myvatn

Gigantic mud craters surrounded by sulfur crystals of many different colors, bubbling mud pots, and steam pots make up the landscape of Mt. Namafjall (Namaskard). Follow a small hiking trail, which goes up to the mountain and then returns to the highway and the parking lot. The soil in the area is almost barren due to erosion and the sulfur fumes. If you get cold and tired, soak in thermal baths on the other side of the mountain. To avoid injuries and burns, stay on the track. Bear in mind that the fumes can be harmful.
Suggested duration: 2 hours
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Tours including Mt. Namafjall (Namaskard):

6. Mývatn Nature Baths, Lake Myvatn

Soak inside or out at Mývatn Nature Baths. A warm natural lagoon maintains a temperature of 35-40 C (95-104 F). Inside you can take an even hotter steam bath, which uses geothermal steam that rises through holes in the floor. If you get too hot, you'll find cold showers outside. Relax with a back, foot, or full-body massage, in the massage room or out by the lagoon. Often chosen as an alternative to the Blue Lagoon, these hot springs attract fewer tourists and are less expensive.
Suggested duration: 2h 30 min
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7. Dettifoss Waterfall, Lake Myvatn

Dettifoss Waterfall is thought to be the most powerful waterfall in Europe. At 100 m (328 ft) wide and 44 m (131 ft) tall, it is also one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland. Part of Vatnajökull National Park in Northeast Iceland, this natural beauty is on the popular Diamond Circle route. Walk the well-maintained footpaths to find the best viewpoints; walkways next to the waterfall allow you to get quite close. Hear the thunderous sound that this magnificent waterfall makes and feel the ground tremble under your feet. Due to the water's mist reacting with the sun, rainbows often form over the waterfall. Be respectful of any paths that are blocked off; this is most likely due to weather conditions and is for your safety.
Suggested duration: 2 hours
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Tours including Dettifoss Waterfall:

8. Speed Boats Tours, Husavik

Suggested duration: 2h 30 min
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9. Akureyri Golf Club

Akureyri Golf Club is a golf course located in Akureyri, Iceland, at Jaðarsvöllur, it was named "the most northerly 18-hole golf course" according to The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews. It features a moorland course, broad ridges, tree clusters, and rock outcroppings. Due to its proximity to the Arctic Circle, it is possible to play golf at Akureyri Golf Club at night under the midnight sun during the summer.

Akureyri Golf Club was established in 1935. It is Iceland's second-oldest golf club after Reykjavik Golf Club.

Akureyri Golf Club established its current location at the Jadar farm in 1970. For ten years, the members played a 9-hole course which is now the front nine, designed by Magnus Gudmundsson. In 1980, the second nine holes were added. The second nine holes were developed and implemented by Magnus Gudmundsson and Gunnar Thordarson.

The Arctic Open is held at Akureyri Golf Club during the summer solstice. It was first held in 1986. It is a four-day championship event, open to international professional and amateur golfers.
In 1997, four men completed the longest daytime round of golf in history by playing 306 holes at Akureyri Golf Club during the summer when it stays light through the night.
Suggested duration: 4 hours
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11. Hlíðarfjall

Suggested duration: 8 hours
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12. Dolphin & Whale Watching

Suggested duration: 3 hours
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13. Akureyri Swimming Pool

Suggested duration: 1h 30 min
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14. Hearts in Akureyri

Suggested duration: 2 hours
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