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TripAdvisor Traveler´s Choice 2021

Ísafjörður

Ísafjörður is the “capital” of the Westfjords, but with a population of roughly 2,700, it’s really a small town! Nestling under the mountains at the head of Skutulsfjörður, Ísafjörður means “ice fjord”, and it’s easy to see how the town got its name.

Close to the Arctic Circle, the sun doesn’t rise above the steep mountaintops here from the end of November until late January! We’ll bring you here in the summer, which means almost endless daylight.

That means you can wander its peaceful streets, lined with colorful houses, restaurants, cafes and bakeries, for as long as you like!

International cruise ships often call in here, and summer festivals add a buzz to this picturesque little town.

It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day exploring the Westfjords, enjoying astonishing panoramic views and charming shoreline walks.

You’ll discover a lovely mix of beautiful old timber and iron-clad houses, which date back to the 18th century when the tall ships and whaling crews came to call.

During our Westfjords Tour we usually arrive there around 6-7 pm, crossing the unique one-way tunnel with intersection underneath the fjord. 

Westfjords Heritage Museum

Explore the maritime history of Isafjörður and the Westfjords
Westfjords Heritage Museum
Learn more about the fascinating history of the Westfjords inside the traditional timber buildings of the Westfjords Heritage Museum. Originally a warehouse, the museum is filled to the rafters with intriguing exhibits that tell the story of the town’s centuries of fishing and maritime heritage. Look out for the restored fishing boats and other unusual memorabilia, including old diving suits and dozens of accordions!

Ísafjörður Culture House

Check out Ísafjörður’s artistic history in one of its most beautiful buildings
Isafjörður Culture House
Originally built as a local hospital in 1925, the Culture House was renovated in 2003 as a historical and cultural center. Set in one of the most beautiful buildings in Ísafjörður, you can enjoy its remarkable art and photographic collections and a few alarming medical specimens too! Just outside, you’ll find the impressive Seamen’s Monument, a tribute to the fishermen who have lost their lives at sea.

Observation Deck

See the largest town in the Westfjords from another angle
Ísafjörður
Ísafjörður enjoys a superb natural setting, surrounded by towering mountains on three sides. A short walk from the town center brings you to a raised observation deck, which offers a clear view of the town and the fjord. Looking up, you’ll notice a massive bowl-shaped gap in the mountains. This is Naustahvilft or ‘the Troll’s Seat’, where folk tales say that a giant female troll sat down for a rest after hurrying home before sunrise.

Swimming Pool

Make a splash at Borgarnes swimming pool!

Ísafjörður swimming pool
If you want to relax after the day’s travels, why not pop into Ísafjörður’s swimming pool for a soothing dip? You’ll find a 16-meter indoor pool with a hot tub and sauna. Ísafjörður might be a small town, but it’s full of character and charm and the most exciting overnight stop on our Westfjords tour.

Dining options

Enjoy a fine selection of enticing restaurants and cute cafes
Isafjörður miðbær
Welcome to the largest town in the Westfjords, where you’ll find plenty of excellent options for breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between! Several splendid restaurants offer a wide range of seafood dishes in traditional settings in the town center. There are also many cafes in the harbor area, and you can enjoy some local ales made with filtered mountain water.

Tours and Packages including stay in Ísafjörður

Prices displayed in currencies other than Icelandic Krona (ISK) are estimated. Final price in your currency will be calculated based on your bank´s currency exchange rate

Grand Iceland

See all of Iceland’s greatest natural treasures, visiting spectacular sights around the “Land of Fire and Ice” on this unforgettable 10-day Grand Tour package!

kr.323.910,0

Duration
10 days
Jun-Sep
TUE
Viking House

Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the spectacular Westfjords, experience unique sights in unspoiled nature, and look for Arctic Foxes and puffins!

kr.107.910,0

Duration
3 days
Jun-Sep
SUN

Set off on a road trip like no other with this thrilling 8-day tour of Iceland’s most magnificent sights along Route 1, and explore the wild Westfjords too!

kr.256.410,0

Duration
8 days
Jun-Sep
TUE

Discover the unique delights of the Silver Circle in West Iceland and explore spectacular sights in the wild Westfjords, home of the Arctic Fox and puffins!

kr.170.910,0

Duration
5 days
Jun-Sep
FRI

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