In a country so exposed to the elements, Akureyri's sheltered location and reliable sunshine are one of its biggest attractions. Located inland, at the head of a fjord, this is one of the greenest places in Iceland, with tree-lined streets and the most northerly botanical gardens in the world. It's also the ideal base for exploring the northern regions, being within easy reach of popular Mývatn Lake and nearby Húsavík.

The Akureyrarkirkja church, reminiscent of its sister church in Reykjavik, stands tall over the town, while the outdoor swimming pool boasts geothermal hot pools and saunas. Hafnarstraeti, the main shopping street, is a great place to take a breather as you meander among the colourful shops and restaurants, soaking up the friendly atmosphere of this cosmopolitan city.