6 Best Things to do in Isafjordur, Iceland

Looking for the best things to do in Isafjordur? We’ve got you covered!

Tucked away in Iceland’s remote Westfjords, Isafjordur is one of the country’s most underrated destinations. Surrounded by dramatic mountains and deep fjords, it’s the perfect base for discovering some of Iceland’s most spectacular scenery, from towering waterfalls and whale-filled waters to charming fishing villages and scenic hiking trails.

Whether you’re stopping here on a cruise or spending a few days exploring the Westfjords, there’s plenty to see and do. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve rounded up the very best things to do in Isafjordur. Let’s get into it!

Isafjordur at a Glance

Isafjordur is small and easy to explore, but a few local tips will help you make the most of your time in Iceland’s spectacular Westfjords!

Important Tip: Book tours ahead and dress for the weather!

Book tours in advance: If you’re visiting on a cruise, we highly recommend reserving your tours before you arrive. Whale watching and Dynjandi excursions are among the most popular experiences in Isafjordur, and places can fill up quickly during the short summer season. Booking ahead also helps ensure your schedule lines up with your time in port.

Dress for changing weather: Even in summer, the weather in the Westfjords can change in a matter of minutes. Bring a waterproof jacket, wear sturdy walking shoes, and pack an extra warm layer, especially if you’re heading out on the water or hiking. You’ll be much more comfortable no matter what the Icelandic weather decides to do!

Rent a car if you’re staying longer: If you’re spending more than a day in Isafjordur, renting a car is the best way to explore the surrounding Westfjords. You’ll have the freedom to visit remote waterfalls, tiny fishing villages, and scenic viewpoints at your own pace. If you’re only visiting on a cruise, organized tours are the easiest way to see the highlights without worrying about the winding mountain roads.

How We’d Spend 2 Days in Isafjordur

If you’ve got two days to spend in Isafjordur, you’ll have enough time to experience the very best of the Westfjords without feeling rushed. Here’s how we’d plan the perfect itinerary, combining breathtaking scenery, wildlife, and a little local history.

Day 1: If you’ve only got one full day in Isafjordur, prioritize this Dynjandi Waterfall tour, as it’s the region’s most famous natural attraction. After returning to town, spend the rest of the afternoon following the Old Town walking route before finishing the day with dinner overlooking the harbor.

Day 2: Start the morning by heading out on this whale watching tour, where you’ll have the chance to spot humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins, and other marine wildlife in the beautiful Westfjords. Afterward, tackle the short hike up to Naustahvilft, better known as the Troll Seat, for incredible views back across Isafjordur.

Things to do in Isafjordur 

1. Go whale watching in the Westfjords

If there’s one wildlife experience we’d recommend in Isafjordur, it’s whale watching. The Westfjords are one of Iceland’s most remote regions, and heading out onto the water on this cruise gives you a completely different perspective of the dramatic mountains and deep fjords that make this part of the country so special.

As you cruise through Isafjardardjup fjord, you’ll have the chance to spot humpback whales, minke whales, harbor porpoises, white-beaked dolphins, and a variety of seabirds, depending on the season. Of course, wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but the experienced local captain and crew know these waters incredibly well and use their knowledge to maximize your chances of finding marine life.

One thing we really like about this tour is its responsible approach to whale watching. Rather than chasing the animals, the captain positions the boat carefully and allows the whales to approach naturally whenever possible. It’s a much more respectful way to observe these incredible creatures, while also creating some amazing opportunities for photography.

You’ll also learn plenty about the whales, their behavior, and the unique marine ecosystem of the Westfjords from the knowledgeable crew as you cruise. And even if the whales decide to stay hidden, the scenery alone makes the trip worthwhile. Towering mountains rise straight from the water, tiny settlements dot the shoreline, and the sense of isolation is unlike almost anywhere else in Iceland.

We really think that this is one of the best ways to experience the wild beauty of the Westfjords!

2. See the mighty Dynjandi Waterfall on a day trip

If whale watching is the best wildlife experience in Isafjordur, then Dynjandi is the natural landmark you really can’t miss. Often described as the jewel of the Westfjords, this enormous waterfall is one of the most spectacular sights in Iceland, and it absolutely deserves a place on your itinerary.

One of the best things about this tour is that it takes the stress out of reaching Dynjandi yourself. The drive from Isafjordur is incredibly scenic, but it also involves mountain tunnels, narrow roads, and remote landscapes, so joining a guided tour means you can sit back and enjoy the views without worrying about navigation. Along the way, you’ll travel through dramatic fjord scenery before arriving at one of the Westfjords’ most famous natural wonders.

Dynjandi itself is breathtaking. It’s made up of several cascading waterfalls that fan out down the mountainside, becoming wider as they tumble towards the bottom. You’ll have time to get close to the falls and soak up just how powerful and beautiful this place really is.

The farm visit adds a lovely local touch to the trip, too. You’ll stop at a working Icelandic farm near Þingeyri, enjoy coffee, tea, and traditional Icelandic cake, and get a glimpse of life in one of the country’s most remote regions. We think this is one of the best day trips from Isafjordur, especially if you’re visiting on a cruise stop and want to see the Westfjords’ most iconic waterfall without the hassle of renting a car.

3. Follow the Old Town walking route

Not every great experience in Isafjordur needs to be a big excursion. If you want to get a feel for the town itself, we’d really recommend following the Old Town walking route. It’s free, and very easy to do independently, so it works perfectly if you’re visiting on a cruise stop or only have a short time in town.

The route leads through the historic heart of Isafjordur and covers around 1.8 kilometers, or 1.1 miles, so it’s very manageable. Along the way, you’ll pass colorful houses and some of the town’s most interesting little sights, including the Nonsense Museum and the old botanical garden.

What makes this walk so worthwhile is that it gives you a chance to actually experience Isafjordur in its own right, rather than using the town purely as a gateway for whales and waterfalls. The harbor views and surrounding mountains all help you get a better sense of what life feels like in this remote corner of the Westfjords.

We think this is especially good to do before or after a tour, as it doesn’t require much planning or energy. Just wrap up warm and enjoy wandering through one of Iceland’s most atmospheric little towns.

4. Visit one of the Westfjords’ most charming islands

If you’re looking to escape the mainland for a few hours, this trip to Vigur Island is one of the most unique experiences in the Westfjords. Home to just a handful of permanent residents, Vigur offers a fascinating glimpse into life in one of Iceland’s smallest inhabited communities, surrounded by spectacular fjord scenery and abundant birdlife.

The adventure begins with a scenic boat ride across Isafjardardjup fjord, where you’ll enjoy beautiful views back towards the mountains that surround Isafjordur. Once you arrive on the island, you’ll be taken on a guided walk to learn about Vigur’s history, wildlife, and the families who have made their home here for generations.

One of the biggest highlights is the chance to see the island’s thriving birdlife. During the summer months, Vigur is home to thousands of nesting seabirds, including puffins, Arctic terns, eider ducks, and black guillemots, making it a fantastic destination for wildlife lovers and photographers alike. You’ll also visit Iceland’s only surviving wooden windmill and one of the country’s oldest preserved eight-oared rowing boats, both of which offer a fascinating insight into the island’s past.

To round off your visit, you’ll be welcomed into the family home for coffee and homemade refreshments before making the return journey to Isafjordur. We love that this adds such a personal touch to the experience and gives you the chance to meet the people who keep this remarkable little island alive.

5. Hike up to Naustahvilft, the Troll Seat

If you want to stretch your legs and enjoy one of the best views near Isafjordur, we’d recommend hiking up to Naustahvilft, also known as the Troll Seat. It’s a short hike close to town, so it’s a great option if you want an outdoor adventure without committing to a full-day trail.

Naustahvilft is the huge bowl-shaped hollow in the mountain above the fjord, and you can spot it pretty easily as you approach Isafjordur. Its nickname comes from a local legend, which says that a troll sat down here to rest after rushing home before sunrise. 

The hike is around 2.3 kilometers, or 1.4 miles, round trip, so it doesn’t take too long. However, it is still a climb, so don’t be fooled into thinking it’s just a gentle stroll. Wear proper shoes, bring a layer, and avoid hiking in poor weather, especially if the trail is slippery or visibility is bad.

Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous views back over Isafjordur, the airport, the fjord, and the surrounding mountains. It’s a true reminder of just how dramatic this part of Iceland really is.

We think this is a fantastic option if you want to experience the Westfjords’ wild scenery independently. It’s an easy, budget-friendly adventure, but at the same time it’s super scenic and gives you a real sense of the landscape that makes Isafjordur such a memorable place to visit. Long story short, it’s a must-do! 

6. Wander through the Westfjords Heritage Museum 

If you’d like to learn more about the history of Isafjordur, the Westfjords Heritage Museum is well worth a visit. Located right by the harbor, it’s one of the town’s best cultural attractions and offers a fascinating insight into the industry that shaped life in this remote corner of Iceland.

Often referred to as the Maritime Museum, it tells the story of the Westfjords’ long relationship with the sea. Fishing has been the region’s most important economic activity for centuries, and the museum does a great job of explaining how generations of local people built their lives around the surrounding fjords. We found it so interesting to see exhibitions like traditional fishing boats and tools, as it gave us a much deeper appreciation for the resourcefulness and resilience of the communities that call this rugged coastline home.

We also love that the museum is housed in one of Isafjordur’s oldest buildings, adding even more character to the experience. It’s not a huge attraction, but it’s packed with interesting stories and local history, making it an easy stop if you want to balance out all the outdoor adventures with a little culture.

Adult admission is currently ISK 1,600 (around $13 USD), while seniors pay ISK 1,200 (around $10 USD), making it a very affordable attraction. Seasonal opening hours are typically 10 am to 5 pm from May 15 to August 31, and 11 am to 3 pm from September 1 to September 15, although it’s always worth checking before you visit.

All in all, we think visiting the museum is a great way to add a little local context to your visit, especially before or after exploring the Old Town.

Where to Stay in Isafjordur

Accommodation in Isafjordur is a little different from some of Iceland’s bigger destinations. You won’t find huge luxury resorts here, but that’s all part of the appeal. Instead, it’s all about cozy hotels and guesthouses that make the perfect base for exploring the spectacular Westfjords.

To help you choose, we’ve rounded up three excellent places to stay for different budgets.

Hotel Isafjördur – $$$

Hotel Isafjördur is one of the best places to stay in town if you’re looking for a little extra comfort. Conveniently located close to the harbor, restaurants, and museums, it’s an excellent base for both sightseeing and day trips into the surrounding Westfjords. The rooms are modern and spacious, while the on-site restaurant serves fresh Icelandic dishes, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.

Rooms usually start from around $300 USD per night. Check prices for your dates and book this stay on Booking.com!

The Ísafjörður Inn – $$

The Ísafjörður Inn is a fantastic mid-range option if you want somewhere comfortable, modern, and good value. The hotel has bright, contemporary rooms and a convenient location within easy walking distance of the town center, making it easy to reach the harbor and many of Isafjordur’s main attractions. We think it’s an excellent choice if you want a comfortable stay without stretching the budget too far.

Prices typically start from around $170 USD per night. Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com!

Mánagisting Guesthouse – $

Mánagisting Guesthouse is an excellent budget-friendly choice for travelers who’d rather spend their money on exploring the Westfjords. The guesthouse offers clean, comfortable rooms in a quiet location, while still being just a short walk from the center of town. It’s simple but welcoming, making it a great base if you’re planning to spend most of your time hiking, whale watching, or discovering the incredible scenery nearby.

Rooms generally start from around $120 USD per night, depending on the season. Check availability and book your stay on Booking.com!

For even more options, check out all the hotels in Isafjordur here!

Thanks for reading!

Isafjordur may be small, but it delivers some of Iceland’s biggest adventures. From watching whales surface in the fjords and standing beneath the mighty Dynjandi waterfall to wandering colorful streets and discovering local history, this remote Westfjords town is packed with unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re visiting on a cruise or planning a longer stay, it’s the perfect place to experience Iceland’s wild beauty away from the crowds.

Before you continue your adventure, be sure to check out our other Europe travel guides for more itineraries, destination tips, and practical travel advice. We’ve also linked some of our most popular blogs below to help you plan the rest of your trip. Cheers!

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