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Iceland · Austurland
Austurland
Glacier lagoons, fjords, reindeer and untouched nature
Iceland · Austurland
Glacier lagoons, fjords, reindeer and untouched nature
From Reykjavík
8–9 h via Ring Road
Main towns
Egilsstaðir, Seyðisfjörður
Best time
Jun–Sep
Nearest airport
Egilsstaðir (EGS)
Road conditions
Paved, mountain passes
Top activity
Fjords & reindeer
Overview
East Iceland is where the Ring Road leaves the south’s glacier plains and begins threading between long fjords, steep mountains and small fishing communities. The region feels quieter than the south or southwest, and much of its appeal comes from the journey itself: winding coastal roads, sudden viewpoints, waterfalls dropping from high plateaus and villages tucked into narrow fjords.
Egilsstaðir is the practical inland hub, with access to Lake Lagarfljót, Hallormsstaður forest, Hengifoss and the road over to Seyðisfjörður. Farther south, the Eastfjords route links towns such as Djúpivogur with dramatic coastal scenery and slower local travel. Borgarfjörður Eystri, north of Egilsstaðir, is another distinct pocket known for hiking, birdlife and a strong folklore tradition.
The east works best when you resist the urge to race through it as a Ring Road transit zone. Stay in at least one fjord town, walk to a waterfall, take time for a harbour or local museum and leave margin for weather on the mountain passes. The region’s mix of wilderness, small communities and long road views is the main attraction.
Why Visit
The Eastfjords combine mountain walls, narrow bays, coastal roads and small fishing towns into some of Iceland’s most atmospheric driving.
Hengifoss and other inland falls add strong hiking options to the coastal road-trip experience.
East Iceland is the country’s main reindeer region, with animals moving between highlands and lower valleys through the year.
Seyðisfjörður, Djúpivogur and other towns reward slower travel with harbours, culture and distinctive local settings.
From Borgarfjörður Eystri to inland valleys, the east offers excellent walking with fewer people than the busiest southern routes.
Verður að sjá
Helstu kennileiti Íslands á Austurland
attractionStígðu inn í kvikmyndaleg landslag Suðausturlands, þar sem kvikmyndin 'Guðsland' var tekin upp. Þetta svæði, sem nær yfi
Skoða kennileiti
attractionHornafjörður er fjörðurinn og strandsvæðið umhverfis Höfn þar sem jökulár, grunnsævi, sandrif og opið Atlantshaf hafa mó
Skoða kennileiti
attractionUppgötvaðu Höfn, mikilvægan sjávarútvegsbæ staðsettan á Austurlandi, frægan sem humarhöfuðborg þjóðarinnar. Hann þjónar
Skoða kennileiti
attractionThe Icelandic Wartime Museum in Reyðarfjörður documents the Allied military occupation during the Second World War and i
Skoða kennileiti
attractionLagarfljót er áberandi ár- og vatnakerfi staðsett á Austurlandi, nálægt Egilsstöðum. Það er þekkt fyrir friðsæla náttúru
Skoða kennileiti
attractionSteinasafn Petru í Stöðvarfirði á Austurlandi er eitt ótrúlegasta einkasafn Íslands — ævilangur áhugi á steinefnum, kris
Skoða kennileiti
attractionSelárlaug er jarðhitasundlaug í Selárdal, um 12 km frá Vopnafjarðarkauptúni. Laugin stendur á bakka Selár í fallegu grun
Skoða kennileiti
attractionBlábjörg á Berufjarðarströnd er sérstakt náttúruvætti á norðurhlið Berufjarðar, sem sýnir stórfenglega, lárétt lagskipta
Skoða kennileiti
attractionStaðsett í hinu stórbrotna landslagi Suðausturlands, í Hornafirði, býður Djúpá upp á hrífandi sýningu á óviðráðanlegum n
Skoða kennileiti
attractionFerðastu til Fjarðarselsvirkjunar, elstu starfandi raforkuverksmiðju Íslands, stofnað 1913. Þessi sögulegi staður, sem e
Skoða kennileiti
attractionFolaldafoss, sem er staðsettur í hrjúfri fegurð Austfjarða á Austurlandi, er heillandi foss sem fær vatn sitt úr Berufja
Skoða kennileiti
attractionSafnið "Fransmenn á Íslandi" lýsir á lifandi hátt sögulegri nærveru franskra sjómanna á Austfjörðum. Það er staðsett í h
Skoða kennileitiattractionStígðu inn í kvikmyndaleg landslag Suðausturlands, þar sem kvikmyndin 'Guðsland' var tekin upp. Þetta svæði, sem nær yfi
Skoða kennileitiattractionHornafjörður er fjörðurinn og strandsvæðið umhverfis Höfn þar sem jökulár, grunnsævi, sandrif og opið Atlantshaf hafa mó
Skoða kennileitiattractionUppgötvaðu Höfn, mikilvægan sjávarútvegsbæ staðsettan á Austurlandi, frægan sem humarhöfuðborg þjóðarinnar. Hann þjónar
Skoða kennileitiattractionThe Icelandic Wartime Museum in Reyðarfjörður documents the Allied military occupation during the Second World War and i
Skoða kennileitiattractionLagarfljót er áberandi ár- og vatnakerfi staðsett á Austurlandi, nálægt Egilsstöðum. Það er þekkt fyrir friðsæla náttúru
Skoða kennileitiattractionSteinasafn Petru í Stöðvarfirði á Austurlandi er eitt ótrúlegasta einkasafn Íslands — ævilangur áhugi á steinefnum, kris
Skoða kennileitiattractionSelárlaug er jarðhitasundlaug í Selárdal, um 12 km frá Vopnafjarðarkauptúni. Laugin stendur á bakka Selár í fallegu grun
Skoða kennileitiattractionBlábjörg á Berufjarðarströnd er sérstakt náttúruvætti á norðurhlið Berufjarðar, sem sýnir stórfenglega, lárétt lagskipta
Skoða kennileitiattractionStaðsett í hinu stórbrotna landslagi Suðausturlands, í Hornafirði, býður Djúpá upp á hrífandi sýningu á óviðráðanlegum n
Skoða kennileitiattractionFerðastu til Fjarðarselsvirkjunar, elstu starfandi raforkuverksmiðju Íslands, stofnað 1913. Þessi sögulegi staður, sem e
Skoða kennileitiattractionFolaldafoss, sem er staðsettur í hrjúfri fegurð Austfjarða á Austurlandi, er heillandi foss sem fær vatn sitt úr Berufja
Skoða kennileitiattractionSafnið "Fransmenn á Íslandi" lýsir á lifandi hátt sögulegri nærveru franskra sjómanna á Austfjörðum. Það er staðsett í h
Skoða kennileitiKanna
Sýnir 120 best skráðu af 190 stöðum á korti — síaðu eftir flokki og smelltu á pin.
Sjálfakstur
Skipulegðu þína eigin akstur — stöðvaðu þar sem þér líst best, farðu á þínum hraða
MiðlungsFishing villages, waterfalls and dramatic Eastfjords
AuðveldHvar á að gista
Handvaldar gistimöguleikar um allt svæðið
hotelAusturland
hostelAusturland
Experience tranquil East Iceland at Berunes Farfuglaheimili, a charming hostel by a fjord with mountain views.
guest houseAusturland
Experience serene East Iceland at Blábjörg Resort, featuring inviting outdoor hot tubs with mountain views.
hostelAusturland
Experience comfort and convenience at Eiðar, a modern hostel and apartment complex in East Iceland's scenic Austurland.
guest houseAusturland
Experience tranquil comfort at this charming guesthouse, featuring a distinctive blue roof amidst scenic East Iceland.
hostelAusturland
Experience stunning fjord views and cozy communal living at this East Iceland hostel.
Hvar á að borða
Valdir veitingastaðir til að borða og drekka
€€other
Discover Beljandi Brewery, a charming craft beer haven nestled in Breiðdalsvík, East Iceland. Housed in a distinctive grey corrugated building with a bright red roof and trim, this brewery bar welcomes visitors with a warm 'OPEN' sign. Enjoy locally brewed beers in a relaxed atmosphere, possibly with views of the nearby harbor and boats, making it a perfect stop for travelers exploring the scenic Eastfjords.
Sjá nánar
€€other
Discover Bókakaffi Hlöðum, a charming book cafe nestled in East Iceland, offering a welcoming retreat for travelers. Indulge in delicious homemade food, fresh salads from the salad bar, and excellent coffee while browsing a selection of books. With cozy indoor seating and outdoor picnic tables, it's the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere.
Sjá nánar
€€other
Step into the uniquely themed Café Sumarlina, a cozy spot in Fáskrúðsfjörður boasting a strong passion for Leeds United FC, evident in the abundant memorabilia adorning its wood-paneled walls. This charming cafe and bar offers a warm atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a freshly brewed coffee or a refreshing drink from their well-stocked bar. With its rustic decor, including a deer head mount and unique bar counter, it's a memorable stop for any traveler.
Sjá nánar
€€other
Nestled in the charming harbor town of Djúpivogur, Faktor Brewery offers a welcoming brewpub and cafe experience. Housed in a striking black wooden building with classic white-framed windows, guests can enjoy craft beers and cafe fare on the inviting outdoor wooden deck, complete with picnic tables and vibrant flowers, all while overlooking the serene waters.
Sjá nánar
€€other
Fellabakarí is a bakery in North Iceland, Iceland. Icelandic bakeries are beloved community institutions, known for their freshly baked bread, kleina (twisted doughnuts), snúðar (cinnamon rolls), and strong coffee. The smell of fresh baking is one of Iceland's most comforting experiences.
Sjá nánar
€€other
HEPPA is a restaurant in East Iceland, Iceland serving American. Icelandic cuisine has evolved dramatically in recent decades, moving from traditional fish and lamb dishes to world-class dining experiences. Many restaurants now showcase local ingredients — fresh fish, lamb, skyr, and Arctic char — with modern culinary techniques.
Sjá nánarEigin leið um Ísland
Eigin leiðarlýsingar með lykilviðkomu, vegalengdum og ráðgjöf — Kannið Austurland á eigin forsendum.
ModerateFishing villages, waterfalls and dramatic Eastfjords
EasyIcebergs, glaciers and the Diamond Beach
ChallengingA remote East Iceland highland circuit of waterfalls, forest, Kárahnjúkar dam country and true 4x4 mountain roads.
ModerateIceland's legendary Route 1 — the full circle
Sjálfsakstur gefur þér fulla sveigjanleika. Veldu bílaflokk fyrir veginn á undan og leitaðu að verðum á DiscoverCars.
Leitaðu til að sjá lausa bíla
Ódýrasti kosturinn fyrir bæjarakstur og malbikaða vegi.
Finna bílaLeitaðu til að sjá lausa bíla
Þægilegur í lengri ferðir um hringveginn með farangur.
Finna bílaLeitaðu til að sjá lausa bíla
Meiri veghæð og öruggari akstur.
Finna bílaLeitaðu til að sjá lausa bíla
Fyrir F-vegi á hálendinu og erfiðari vetraraðstæður.
Finna bílaFlokkamyndir fyrir leit eru dæmamyndir frá DiscoverCars, ekki rauntímaframboð. Raunverulegir bílar og verð koma úr þinni eigin leit með dagsetningum. GoIceTravel kann að fá þóknun án aukakostnaðar.
Geothermal
Public geothermal pools are a useful part of East Iceland travel, especially after cold fjord drives or hiking days. They are smaller and more local than the headline lagoons elsewhere in Iceland, which is part of their appeal.
Eat & Experience
East Iceland’s food scene is closely tied to its fishing towns and farming valleys. Seafood is naturally strong in the fjords, while lamb and dairy remain important inland. Egilsstaðir has the broadest everyday choice, but the smaller harbour towns often provide the most memorable local atmosphere.
Because settlements are spread out, meal planning matters on long driving days. Check dinner hours before leaving one town for another, especially outside summer, and keep basic picnic food in the car for hikes or remote roads.
Cafés, bakeries and simple harbour restaurants fit the pace of the region well. The best East Iceland food days are usually the least rushed ones.
Season by Season
After Dark
East Iceland has low light pollution and wide rural skies, making it a strong aurora region from autumn to spring. The main issue is access: mountain passes and fjord roads can be snowy or icy in winter, so the safest plan is often to choose a dark viewpoint close to your accommodation rather than chasing clear sky over long distances.
Logistics
The fjord towns and natural attractions are widely spread, and a car gives the freedom to stop at viewpoints along the way.
Eastfjord roads can be slow despite modest distances. Build time for bends, viewpoints and weather.
Routes into fjord towns can be affected by snow and ice. Check conditions before crossing in winter.
Road conditionsFuel and food are available in the main settlements, but not at every rural stop.
Buses connect some towns, but they are not a practical replacement for a sightseeing vehicle across the whole region.
Beyond
Egilsstaðir is the strongest day-trip base in East Iceland. From there you can choose an inland day around Lagarfljót and waterfalls, a full day in Seyðisfjörður, or a longer coastal run through the Eastfjords. The coast is better with an overnight than as one very long return drive.
Know Before You Go
Bends, narrow sections and viewpoints make East Iceland slower than a map can suggest.
Winter access into fjord towns can change quickly with snow and wind.
Reindeer are wild animals; watch from a distance and never pursue them off-road.
A calm harbour can become cold and windy on a waterfall trail or mountain viewpoint.
Do not assume every small settlement or remote road has services.
Museums, cafés and visitor services can have shorter hours outside summer.
Summer evenings are excellent for fjord photography after daytime traffic has eased.
Núverandi veður
light drizzle
2 m/s vindur
Fara dýpra
Ítarlegar handbækur til að skipuleggja ferð á Austurland
HandbókFjords, waterfalls, reindeer and the Ring Road's quiet side.
Lesa handbók HandbókPlan the full circle of Iceland, region by region.
Lesa handbók
HandbókThe rainbow street, the arts scene and the ferry town.
Lesa handbók
HandbókThe tall red-striped waterfall above Lagarfljót.
Lesa handbókGott að vita
Allt sem þú þarft að vita um Austurland
Yes, for travellers who want fjords, forests, reindeer and near-empty roads. It's the least-visited quarter of the Ring Road and feels genuinely remote and peaceful.
Its rainbow-painted street leading to a blue church, a thriving arts scene, waterfalls, and being the arrival port for the Norröna ferry from mainland Europe.
Yes — Iceland's only wild reindeer herds live in the east, most visible in the highlands in summer and near the coast and roads in winter.
About 650 km / 8–9 hours via the south, or you can fly Reykjavík–Egilsstaðir in around an hour.
It's the regional hub near Lake Lagarfljót (home of Iceland's 'Loch Ness monster'), Hallormsstaður forest, and the Vök geothermal baths.
Yes — Hengifoss (one of Iceland's tallest, with red clay strata), Litlanesfoss with its basalt columns, and the falls above Seyðisfjörður.
June to September for open mountain passes, hiking and the ferry season. Winter is beautiful but roads and daylight are limited.
Egilsstaðir for a central base, Seyðisfjörður for charm and arts, or one of the eastern fjord villages like Borgarfjörður Eystri for puffins and hiking.
Yes — Borgarfjörður Eystri has one of the most accessible puffin colonies in Iceland, with a viewing platform right by the harbour (May–August).
Very — low light pollution and long dark winters make the eastern fjords excellent for aurora, weather permitting.
Halda áfram að kanna
Auðveldar framlengar frá Austurland
Allt sem þú þarft á einum stað
Byrjaðu ævintýrið
Skipuleggðu ferð þína með gervigreind, bókaðu ferðir, finndu hótel — allt á einum stað.
A local pool, museum or café day can save the itinerary when low cloud hides the mountains.
Icebergs, glaciers and the Diamond Beach
regionHub.bookExperienceBadge
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