Akureyri is an exciting destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to Akureyri?
A typical traveler spends $191 (kr23,201) per day on a trip to Akureyri. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Akureyri based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $71 (kr8,632) on meals
- $23 (kr2,829) on local transportation
- $207 (kr25,187) on hotels
A one-week trip to Akureyri for two people costs, on average, $2,668 (kr324,814). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,334
kr162,407
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$2,668
kr324,814
-
One Month
Per person
$5,717
kr696,030
-
One Week
For a couple
$2,668
kr324,814
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$5,336
kr649,628
-
One Month
For a couple
$11,434
kr1,392,060
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Akureyri cost?
A one week trip to Akureyri usually costs around $1,334 (kr162,407) for one person and $2,668 (kr324,814) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Akureyri on average costs around $2,668 (kr324,814) for one person and $5,336 (kr649,628) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Akureyri will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Akureyri on average costs around $5,717 (kr696,030) for one person and $11,434 (kr1,392,060) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Akureyri expensive to visit?
In Akureyri, budget travelers spend $84 (kr10,235) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $191 (kr23,201) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $354 (kr43,096) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Akureyri.
Akureyri is a smaller destination that invites a diverse group of visitors, each with unique travel styles, spending behaviors, and budget levels. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
Akureyri has the potential to be expensive, but you can manage your budget by looking for discounts and coupons.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Akureyri is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Aix-en-Provence or Lastres.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Akureyri Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Akureyri?
The average Akureyri trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Akureyri travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Akureyri cost?
Akureyri on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$46
(kr5,595)
|
$103
(kr12,594)
|
$187
(kr22,826)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$10
(kr1,238)
|
$23
(kr2,829)
|
$44
(kr5,405)
|
|
Food2
|
$31
(kr3,776)
|
$71
(kr8,632)
|
$135
(kr16,494)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$8
(kr983)
|
$18
(kr2,246)
|
$35
(kr4,293)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$3-10
(kr391-1,172)
|
$7-22
(kr893-2,679)
|
$14-42
(kr1,706-5,119)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having realistic expectations for your budget when visiting Akureyri is important. While it's tempting to aim for a shoestring budget, most travelers don't find that style of travel to be enjoyable. Think about your priorities and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer staying in budget accommodations or enjoying more luxurious options? Do you like to explore attractions and dine out at local restaurants? These choices will influence your travel costs and itinerary.
Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?
Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $84 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.
For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.
Thankfully, Akureyri is filled with plenty of hostels, such as Hafnarstraeti Hostel and Akureyri Hostel. Staying in these hostels means you can enjoy low-cost dorm accommodation and a fun social atmosphere, although amenities may be basic.
Is Your Travel Style Average?
If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll likely opt for a mid-range hotel, dine at trendy restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. Most tourists in Akureyri are inclined to explore its main attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Remember, most activities come at a cost. Hence, it's realistic to anticipate your daily budget will be about $191 per person, per day.
There are a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals in Akureyri. If you're traveling with others, you'll share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, so costs will be split accordingly, saving money. When traveling as a family, you'll want to find hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Apt Hotel Hjalteyri is a good kid-friendly option, and Centrum Guesthouse is also terrific. You'll find more hotels that cater to families and couples in our hotel guide for Akureyri here.
What Luxury Travel Looks Like
If you're used to premier amenities and elevated service, prepare to spend about $354 per day. Choosing comfortable hotels, dining at award-winning establishments, indulging in extravagant excursions, and relying on taxis or private drivers to explore the destination will demand a higher price range. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Day Trip to Lake Mývatn And The Nature Baths from Akureyri - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Akureyri
The cost of hotels in Akureyri can be quite surprising. Luxury accommodations come with higher prices and more amenities, especially during peak season. Off-season rates average $187, but peak season () average prices jump to $349. Overall, prices range from $107 to $549. Hostels are often the cheaper option, especially in dorms. You can save by booking early, traveling in the off-season, or taking advantage of promotions.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Akureyri for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $207 (kr25,187). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $103 (kr12,594) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Akureyri? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Akureyri include:
- Centrum Guesthouse starting at $153
- Apt Hotel Hjalteyri starting at $185
If you travel during the low or shoulder season (and avoid ), you'll find lower accommodation prices and less tourist crowds.
Transportation Budget in Akureyri
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $23 (kr2,829) per person, per day, on local transportation in Akureyri. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Akureyri is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$23
kr2,829
Akureyri is connected via the ring road, which is the single highway that runs around the country. Using a rented car or taking a bus from Reykjavik or Egilsstaoir are some of the easiest ways to get into the city. There is also a domestic airport nearby which takes flights from Air Iceland, as well as occasional flights from Copenhagen.
You can easily navigate Akureyri on foot or use their free bus system, SVA. Keep in mind, the buses often have limited hours, especially on weekends, so walking is usually the most efficient option. There are just a few taxis in town which you can find at the taxi post in the center of town.
If you're driving, check for convenient parking at your hotel.
A few of the typical transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Akureyri Airport (AEY): Transfer to/from Akureyri City for $29 details
- Whale Watching Tour with Transfer from Port for $141 details
- From Godafoss Waterfall Guided Trip with Transfers for $126 details
How much does it cost to go to Akureyri? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Akureyri will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Akureyri
Cuisine is one of the main reasons people travel, so don't miss out on the local fare.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Akureyri can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Akureyri is $71 (kr8,632) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$71
kr8,632
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Akureyri is around $71 (kr8632) per person, with previous travelers spending from $31 to $135. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Akureyri are as follows:
- Breakfast: $7 to $21
- Lunch: $11 to $28
- Dinner: $21 to $50
- Coffee: $6
- Fast Food or Street Food: $11
Being a major fishing port, you'll find incredibly fresh seafood wherever you go in town. There is also a strong emphasis on using natural, organic, Icelandic ingredients at many of the restaurants throughout the area. Restaurants in Akureyri vary from pub food, to fish and chip shops, to more international fare like Spanish tapas. The city also has a lively nightlife scene, with almost as many bars and clubs as there are restaurants! Bars range from discos to low-key pubs to swanky lounges.
Many hotels provide breakfast at no additional cost, while others charge extra. The quality and price can vary widely from hotel to hotel. Knowing this ahead of time can help you decide if you should budget more. You might find the hotel's buffet is a worthwhile investment, or perhaps a nearby bakery or cafe could be a cheaper alternative.
Take a water bottle with you to save on drinks. It's also an environmentally friendly option.
Thinking about a tour? Check which meals are included beforehand. You might need to budget for some meals on your own, which can add to your expenses.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Akureyri
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Akureyri typically cost an average of $18 (kr2,246) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$18
kr2,246
Akureryi offers a fantastic art scene, especially in the Listagilio which translates to art canyon, is an area full of art galleries and shops. After wandering through Listagilio, you can follow the winding lanes of the town and enjoy the eclectic buildings. One such building is the Akureyrakirkja Church whose 1940's architecture juxtaposes that of the more traditional surrounding buildings.
Explore the city's history at Gasir, a medieval trading post which comes to life in July when locals recreate what it would have been like hundreds of years ago. From here, you can head to the Laufus, an old rectory from the 1840's that are often considered to be the inspiration for Icelandic architecture.
Some of the best activities in Akureyri involve taking advantage of the incredible natural surroundings, especially at Glerardalur Valley. The Valley is surrounded by some of the highest mountains in Iceland with the Glera River running through it. You can get a map of the area from The Touring Company in Akureyri, who will also be able to tell you the best viewing points and difficulty level of each trail!
During winter, you can ski at the nearby Eyjafjordur Fjord, which is great for both cross-country and downhill skiing. In the summer, head over to Sulur Mountain where you can spend the day hiking and exploring the area while also getting breathtaking views of Akureyri. At the end of summer, in early September, there's the annual Arctic Run on Grimsey Island which is the only run in the world where you cross the Arctic Circle! Then, end running day with a viewing of the Northern Lights which can be viewed in Akureyri from September through April.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Akureyri. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- The Viking Horse Riding Experience in North Iceland for $114 details
- Horse Riding Tour to the Glacier River Delta with Waterfall for $159 details
- Guided Sit on Top Kayak Tour for $79 details
Nightlife Budget in Akureyri
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $15 (kr1,786) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Akureyri per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$15
kr1,786
Enjoying the nightlife is exciting, but if you want to save money, drinking less is an easy way to do it.
Travel cost data last updated: Aug 14, 2025
Traveling in Akureyri
Godafoss Waterfall
Akureyri is the largest town in the northern region of Iceland, and is often considered the unofficial capital of the north. The town is a popular fishing port and is often used as a basecamp for visiting the more rural surrounding area. Akureyri is known for their great art scene, beautiful architecture, and stunning natural scenery.
The climate in Akureyri tends to be cold and wet year round, with temperatures rarely going above 60° Fahrenheit. Temperatures tend stay between 20-30° F from October-April, with the most snowfall and rainfall happening during this time. May-August tend to be drier and slightly warmer, with temperatures in the 40's and 50's.
Neighborhoods & Around
Akureyri is a fairly small city, despite it being the largest town in the northern region of Iceland. It does have a downtown, or town center, where you'll find beautiful architecture, art galleries, tourist offices, and restaurants. Outside of the town center, on the outskirts of the city, is the conference center and a few of the natural attractions.
Located far north of Akureyri is Grimsey Island, which is home to fisherman and about one million seabirds! Aside from it's stunning natural landscape, Grimsey is a great place to experience crossing the Arctic Circle.
About 20 miles north of Akureyri is Hrisey Island, a beautiful little island with a small village. There are three walking trails, amazing viewpoints for bird watching, and even tractor tours during the summer.
Related:
Traveling independently and looking for a hostel in Iceland?
Are you organizing group travel and need a place to stay in Reykjavik?
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.