3°C
Iceland · East Iceland
East Iceland
Glacier lagoons, fjords, reindeer and untouched nature
Iceland · East Iceland
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.
Must See
Iceland's most iconic sights in East Iceland
attractionStep into the cinematic landscapes of Southeast Iceland, where the 'Godland' movie was filmed. This region, encompassing
View attraction
attractionHornafjörður is the coastal fjord and harbour landscape surrounding Höfn in southeast Iceland. Glacial rivers, shallow c
View attraction
attractionDiscover Höfn, a significant fishing town nestled in East Iceland, famously known as the nation's lobster capital. It se
View attraction
attractionThe Icelandic Wartime Museum in Reyðarfjörður documents the Allied military occupation during the Second World War and i
View attraction
attractionLagarfljót is a prominent river and lake system nestled in East Iceland, near the charming town of Egilsstaðir. Known fo
View attraction
attractionPetra's Stone Collection in Stöðvarfjörður, East Iceland, is one of Iceland's most extraordinary private collections — a
View attraction
attractionSelárlaug is a geothermal swimming pool in Selárdalur, about 12 km from Vopnafjörður. It sits directly beside the Selá r
View attraction
attractionBlábjörg á Berufjarðarströnd is a distinctive natural monument on the north side of Berufjörður, showcasing magnificent,
View attraction
attractionNestled in the dramatic landscapes of Southeast Iceland's Hornafjörður region, Djúpá river presents a captivating displa
View attraction
attractionJourney to Fjarðarselsvirkjun, the oldest continuously operating power plant in Iceland, established in 1913. This histo
View attraction
attractionNestled within the rugged beauty of East Iceland's Eastfjords, Folaldafoss is a captivating cascade fed by the Berufjarð
View attraction
attractionFransmenn á Íslandi (The French in Iceland) museum vividly brings to life the historical presence of French fishermen in
View attractionattractionStep into the cinematic landscapes of Southeast Iceland, where the 'Godland' movie was filmed. This region, encompassing
View attractionattractionHornafjörður is the coastal fjord and harbour landscape surrounding Höfn in southeast Iceland. Glacial rivers, shallow c
View attractionattractionDiscover Höfn, a significant fishing town nestled in East Iceland, famously known as the nation's lobster capital. It se
View attractionattractionThe Icelandic Wartime Museum in Reyðarfjörður documents the Allied military occupation during the Second World War and i
View attractionattractionLagarfljót is a prominent river and lake system nestled in East Iceland, near the charming town of Egilsstaðir. Known fo
View attractionattractionPetra's Stone Collection in Stöðvarfjörður, East Iceland, is one of Iceland's most extraordinary private collections — a
View attractionattractionSelárlaug is a geothermal swimming pool in Selárdalur, about 12 km from Vopnafjörður. It sits directly beside the Selá r
View attractionattractionBlábjörg á Berufjarðarströnd is a distinctive natural monument on the north side of Berufjörður, showcasing magnificent,
View attractionattractionNestled in the dramatic landscapes of Southeast Iceland's Hornafjörður region, Djúpá river presents a captivating displa
View attractionattractionJourney to Fjarðarselsvirkjun, the oldest continuously operating power plant in Iceland, established in 1913. This histo
View attractionattractionNestled within the rugged beauty of East Iceland's Eastfjords, Folaldafoss is a captivating cascade fed by the Berufjarð
View attractionattractionFransmenn á Íslandi (The French in Iceland) museum vividly brings to life the historical presence of French fishermen in
View attractionExplore
Showing the 120 best-documented of 190 mapped places — filter by category and tap a pin.
Self Drive
Plan your own drive — stop where you like, go at your own pace
ModerateFishing villages, waterfalls and dramatic Eastfjords
EasyWhere to Stay
Handpicked places to stay across the region
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.
Where to Eat
Featured places to eat and drink
€€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.
View details
€€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.
View details
€€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.
View details
€€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.
View details
€€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.
View details
€€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.
View detailsSelf-Drive Iceland
Self-drive guides with key stops, distances and tips — explore East Iceland at your own pace.
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
Self-drive gives you total flexibility. Browse vehicle categories for the roads ahead, then search real availability and prices on DiscoverCars.
Search to see available cars
Lowest-cost option for city driving and paved main roads.
Find carsSearch to see available cars
Comfortable for longer Ring Road drives with luggage.
Find carsSearch to see available cars
Higher ground clearance and a confident ride.
Find carsSearch to see available cars
For highland F-roads and tougher winter conditions.
Find carsCategory pictures before searching are illustrative images sourced from DiscoverCars, not live availability. Real cards and prices come from your own dated search. GoIceTravel may earn a commission at no extra cost.
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.
Current Weather
light drizzle
2 m/s wind
Go Deeper
In-depth guides to plan your East Iceland trip
GuideFjords, waterfalls, reindeer and the Ring Road's quiet side.
Read guide GuidePlan the full circle of Iceland, region by region.
Read guide
GuideThe rainbow street, the arts scene and the ferry town.
Read guide
GuideThe tall red-striped waterfall above Lagarfljót.
Read guideGood to Know
Everything you need to know about East Iceland
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.
Keep Exploring
Easy extensions from East Iceland
Everything you need in one place
Start Your Adventure
Plan your trip with AI, book tours, find hotels — everything in one place.
A local pool, museum or café day can save the itinerary when low cloud hides the mountains.
Icebergs, glaciers and the Diamond Beach
Archaeological Heritage
regionHub.bookExperienceBadge
Bookable experiences from verified Iceland operators
5 hours Tinna Adventure
From
42,000 ISK
6 hours Tinna Adventure
From
50,000 ISK
7 hours Tinna Adventure
From
57,000 ISK
5 hours Tanni Travel
From
39,990 ISK
10 hours Tinna Adventure
From
61,000 ISK
1 hour 30 minutesVök Baths
From
7,690 ISK
4 hours Tinna Adventure
From
36,500 ISK
7 hours Tanni Travel
From
49,900 ISK
12 hours Tinna Adventure
From
378,000 ISK
