Egilsstaðir
East Iceland's main service hub and a convenient base for Lagarfljót, waterfalls, forests, fjords and highland routes.
At a Glance
Visit time
Allow 1-2 days to explore the town and nearby attractions; 2-3 hours for a quick stopover.
Best Season
Summer for hiking and outdoor exploration; Autumn for fall colors and fewer crowds; All year for cultural experiences.
Getting There
Paved road (Route 1 - Ring Road), domestic airport (Egilsstaðir Airport) with flights from Reykjavík.
GPS
65.2609, -14.3994
About
About Egilsstaðir
East Iceland's main service hub and a convenient base for Lagarfljót, waterfalls, forests, fjords and highland routes.
Immerse yourself in Iceland's vibrant sagas and folklore amidst stunning East Icelandic scenery.
Photos
Gallery
Background
History & Background
Egilsstaðir developed during the twentieth century into East Iceland's principal centre for services, transport and regional administration. Its growth was tied to its central position in Fljótsdalshérað and its road and air connections to the rest of the country.
Egilsstaðir is the largest town in East Iceland and the region's main service and transport hub. The town has an airport with regular domestic connections, shops, accommodation and cultural services, making it a practical base for travellers exploring Austurland. Lagarfljót lies on the town's doorstep, while roads and trails lead toward Hallormsstaðaskógur, Hengifoss, neighbouring fjords and the eastern highlands. Across the bridge is Fellabær, and together the two settlements form the main urban centre of inland East Iceland.
Folklore
Story & Folklore
Egilsstaðir works best for visitors as the hub of the east: a place to arrive, resupply and choose the next direction. From here, Lagarfljót, forest walks, waterfalls, fjord roads and highland routes spread out across the region.
Did You Know?
Did you know that Egilsstaðir is located in a region renowned for its connection to Iceland's sagas, some of the Middle Ages' most significant literary works, and tales of elves and trolls?
Culture
Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Ekkjufell Saga
Ekkjufell is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Droplaugarsona saga", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Eyvindardalur
Eyvindardalur is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Droplaugarsona saga", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Finnsstaðir
Finnsstaðir is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Fljótsdæla saga", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Hnútusel (áður Knútusel)
Hnútusel (áður Knútusel) is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Droplaugarsona saga", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Explore
Hidden Gems Nearby
Hallormsstaðaskógur National Forest
Iceland's largest national forest, offering beautiful hiking trails, diverse flora, and peaceful picnic spots. It's a rare expanse of woodland in a generally treeless country.
Experience Iceland's unique forested landscape and tranquil nature walks.
Lagarfljót Lake
A long, narrow lake rumored to house the Lagarfljót Worm, a mythical creature akin to the Loch Ness Monster. The lake is also central to many local sagas and offers boat tours.
Hunt for a legendary monster and delve into ancient Icelandic folklore.
Fardagafoss Waterfall
A beautiful waterfall easily accessible from Egilsstaðir, known for a hidden cave behind its cascade which, according to local legend, holds a treasure.
Discover a picturesque waterfall with a touch of local treasure-hunt folklore.
Help
Frequently Asked Questions
Location
Location
Discover
Explore Nearby
Places from our database within 5.0 km — all data from Sanity
Loading nearby places…
0 places found within 5.0 km
Plan full itinerary →Explore More