When people plan a trip to Iceland, Reykjavik usually tops the list. It’s the capital, the entry point for most international flights, and packed with trendy restaurants, nightlife, and museums. But if you look further north, you’ll find Akureyri, a smaller city that locals call the “Capital of the North.” Comparing Iceland’s north vs south is like weighing two very different styles of travel—each has its strengths, but together they give you a fuller picture of Iceland.
Reykjavik: Bustling Capital in the South
Reykjavik is Iceland’s cultural and political heart. Here you’ll find:
- Urban vibe: A colourful downtown filled with shops, cafés, and live music.
- Easy access: Close to the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, and the South Coast.
- Convenience: Large choice of hotels, car rentals, and guided tours.
- Cultural highlights: Hallgrímskirkja church, Harpa Concert Hall, and museums on Icelandic history and art.
Pros of Reykjavik: Everything you need is close by, and it’s ideal for first-time visitors.
Cons of Reykjavik: Crowds, higher prices, and a more “tourist-heavy” feel than other parts of Iceland.
Akureyri: The Charm of Northern Iceland
Drive or fly north and you’ll arrive in Akureyri, a town of about 20,000 people with a laid-back atmosphere and stunning fjord views. Unlike the capital, Akureyri offers a slower pace and direct access to North Iceland’s natural wonders.
- Nature access: Lake Mývatn, Goðafoss waterfall, and whale watching in Húsavík are all nearby.
- Smaller crowds: Even in summer, the north feels calmer than Reykjavik.
- Local life: Akureyri is more of a working town than a tourist hub, giving visitors an authentic slice of Iceland.
- Winter perks: Hlíðarfjall ski resort and excellent northern lights conditions.
Pros of Akureyri: Stunning scenery, fewer tourists, and easy access to unique landscapes.
Cons of Akureyri: Smaller choice of restaurants and shops, and it takes longer to reach (a 45-minute flight or a 4–5 hour drive from Reykjavik).
Comparing Iceland’s North vs South
| Feature | Reykjavik (South) | Akureyri (North) |
|---|---|---|
| Vibe | Lively, urban, cultural | Relaxed, small-town, scenic |
| Accessibility | Direct from KEF airport | Domestic flight or long drive |
| Attractions | Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, South Coast waterfalls | Mývatn, Goðafoss, whale watching, skiing |
| Crowds | Heavier, especially in summer | Fewer, quieter year-round |
| Best for | First-time visitors, city lovers, short trips | Nature seekers, repeat visitors, winter activities |
Travel Iceland Beyond Reykjavik
If your Iceland trip is only a few days, Reykjavik and the South Coast might be enough. But if you have more time—or if you want to experience a calmer, less crowded side of the country—Akureyri and the north shouldn’t be overlooked. Combining the two gives you the best of both worlds: the lively energy of the capital and the raw beauty of northern fjords, mountains, and geothermal landscapes.
👉 Final tip: Renting a car makes it easy to connect both regions in one trip, giving you full freedom to explore Iceland beyond Reykjavik.