Seyðisfjörður Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, and eat in Seyðisfjörður, plus practical information about transportation, accommodations, and safety.


Introduction to Seyðisfjörður

Seyðisfjörður is a picturesque town located in East Iceland, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, waterfalls, and glaciers. This charming destination is perfect for travelers who want to escape the chaotic city life and spend a few days in a calm and serene atmosphere. Seyðisfjörður has a rich cultural heritage and offers visitors various exciting outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and fishing.

List of Places to Visit in Seyðisfjörður

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Skaftfell - Center for Visual Art - This art center is a hub for contemporary art and creative exchanges, providing exhibitions, performances, and workshops throughout the year.

  • Fjarðarselsviti Lighthouse - Located on the outskirts of town, this lighthouse offers visitors an authentic viewpoint of the surrounding coastline and the mountains.

  • The Technical Museum of East Iceland - Offering hands-on exhibits, this museum provides an insight into the region’s industrial heritage and presents the hydropower plant’s history.

Natural Attractions of Seyðisfjörður: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Stafdalur Ski Resort - This ski resort offers spectacular views of the fjords and provides visitors with excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

  • Gufufoss Waterfall - This scenic waterfall is a hidden gem, surrounded by majestic cliffs, and is the perfect place to capture breathtaking photos.

  • Tvísöngur Sound Sculptures - These impressive sculptures produce beautiful melodies when the wind sings around them.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Seyðisfjörður

Seyðisfjörður has various trails suited for both hiking and biking, ranging from short and easy routes to longer and more challenging hikes. Some of the best-known hikes include:

  • Bæjarfoss - A short and easy hike that leads you to a beautiful waterfall.

  • Dybólsdalur Valley - This longer hike takes you through lush pastureland, forests, and valleys, providing views of the entire fjord.

  • Vestdalur to Hádegisbrún - This route offers spectacular views of the town and its surroundings, including glaciers and mountain ranges.

Best Things to Do in Seyðisfjörður: Activities and Tours

  • Boat tours - Experience the town from the sea, gliding through the fjords and the surrounding mountains

  • Snowshoeing and skiing - For winter enthusiasts, there are various skiing and snowshoeing options available.

  • Fishing - Seyðisfjörður offers trout and salmon fishing in the nearby rivers and lakes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Seyðisfjörður

  • Day 1: Arrival and check-in at your accommodation. Visit Gufufoss waterfall and hike to Tvísöngur sound sculptures.

  • Day 2: Explore the town’s landmarks, including Skaftfell - Center for Visual Art and Fjarðarsel Lighthouse.

  • Day 3: Ski or snowshoe at Stafdalur ski resort.

  • Day 4: Visit the Technical Museum of East Iceland and learn more about the region’s industrial heritage.

  • Day 5: Take a boat tour and discover the fjords and its surroundings from a different perspective.

  • Day 6: Go on a hiking trip through Dybólsdalur Valley or Vestdalur to Hádegisbrún.

  • Day 7: Enjoy fishing and cooking your trout or salmon in a cozy guesthouse.

Food and Drink Scene of Seyðisfjörður

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish stew - A hearty fish and vegetable soup that is a staple of Icelandic cuisine.

  • Lamb chops - Icelandic lamb is known for its tenderness and distinct flavor.

  • Plokkfiskur - A traditional Icelandic fish gratin made with potatoes, onions, and any locally caught fish.

Local Beverages

  • Brennivín - Iceland’s national spirit, this schnapps features the distinctive flavor of caraway seeds.

  • Microbreweries – Local microbreweries offer unique tastes that reflect the brewery’s surroundings and history.

Where to Stay in Seyðisfjörður: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Seyðisfjörður offers various accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Some of the most popular places to stay include:

  • Hótel Aldan - A charming boutique hotel with a restaurant that serves traditional Icelandic cuisine.

  • Blábjörg Guesthouse - A cozy guesthouse located in the center of town.

  • Kaffihornið Hostel - Offering affordable accommodation in a casual and comfortable atmosphere.

What to Buy in Seyðisfjörður: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Sweaters and woolen goods - Icelandic wool is renowned for its warmth and quality, making it a perfect souvenir.

  • Artwork and handicrafts - Local artists and craftsmen showcase their impressive works in various shops and galleries.

Local Culture and Customs of Seyðisfjörður

Seyðisfjörður’s residents are proud of their heritage and traditions. Visitors can expect to see examples of local culture when exploring the town, including:

  • Language - The town’s residents speak Icelandic or Faroese, but English is also widely used as a second language.

  • Fishing - Commercial fishing has been a significant industry in Seyðisfjörður for generations.

Best Time to Visit Seyðisfjörður

Summer (June to August) is the best time to visit Seyðisfjörður, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. Winter (December to February) offers a magical atmosphere, with snow-covered mountains and wonderfully clear skies for stargazing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Seyðisfjörður

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

  • Take advantage of outdoor activities and explore the stunning natural surroundings.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the town or the surrounding wilderness.

  • Ignore safety warnings when hiking or engaging in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Seyðisfjörður

Seyðisfjörður is a generally safe town with low crime rates. However, visitors should be aware of the risks of outdoor activities, including hiking and skiing, and take precautions such as bringing appropriate clothing and equipment.

Health in Seyðisfjörður

Visitors to Seyðisfjörður should be up-to-date on routine vaccinations and check with their healthcare provider if they need additional vaccinations or medications. It is important to also bring any necessary medications and medical supplies with you.

Getting to Seyðisfjörður: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Seyðisfjörður

Keflavík International Airport and Reykjavik Domestic Airport are the closest airports to Seyðisfjörður. Visitors can either rent a car or take a bus from Reykjavik to Seyðisfjörður.

Bus Stations Near Seyðisfjörður

There are daily buses from Reykjavik to Seyðisfjörður, with stops in other towns along the way.

Other Options

Ferries also operate from Denmark and the Faroe Islands, allowing visitors to reach Seyðisfjörður by sea.

How to Get Around in Seyðisfjörður

The town is small enough to explore on foot. Car rentals and taxis are also available.

Where to Go Next from Seyðisfjörður: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Borgarfjörður Eystri - A neighboring town that offers various hiking routes and opportunities for spotting puffins and other wildlife.

  • Egilsstaðir - The largest city in East Iceland, Egilsstaðir offers a glimpse into Icelandic urban life, including restaurants, shops, and a multicultural center.

Conclusion

Seyðisfjörður is a hidden gem in East Iceland, offering a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the town’s historic landmarks, hike through breathtaking valleys, and enjoy delicious local cuisine. Whether you visit in summer or winter, Seyðisfjörður is a fantastic destination that leaves a lasting impression.