Húsavík
Húsavík
Húsavík is a charming coastal town located in northern Iceland, often referred to as the whale watching capital of the country. With a population of just around 2,300 people, this small harbor town packs a surprising punch when it comes to natural beauty and cultural significance.
The town's main draw is its incredible whale watching opportunities in Skjálfandi Bay, where visitors regularly spot humpbacks, minke whales, and sometimes even the massive blue whale. In recent years, Húsavík gained international attention after being featured in the Netflix film "Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga" – there's even a quirky museum dedicated to the movie.
Beyond whales, Húsavík offers fascinating glimpses into Icelandic history at the Húsavík Whale Museum and the Exploration Museum, which chronicles the history of human exploration. The town's picturesque wooden church, built in 1907, stands as one of Iceland's most beautiful religious buildings with its distinctive architecture. For those interested in local cuisine, the restaurants around the harbor serve incredibly fresh seafood caught right from the surrounding waters.
During summer, the midnight sun bathes this fishing town in golden light almost 24 hours a day, making it an ideal spot for late-night walks along the harbor. In winter, the dramatic northern skies frequently light up with the aurora borealis, creating a magical atmosphere that feels distinctly Icelandic.
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Things to do in Húsavík
Top things to do in Húsavík by www.visithusavik.com
Where to stay in Húsavík
Best hotels in Húsavík:
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Skjálfandi (homestay)
Skjálfandi is a welcoming spot in the center of Húsavík, Iceland's whale-watching hub. Its prime location puts you just a few minutes' walk from the harbor, shops, restaurants, and major attractions around town.
The rooms are stylish and comfortable, featuring modern amenities like heated floors and Netflix on the TV. There's plenty of space, and some units come with private terraces, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. If you prefer cooking your own meals, the fully-equipped kitchens are a great perk. With a simple check-in process via keycode and responsive hosts, plus the added convenience of on-site laundry, Skjálfandi makes for a perfect base to explore Húsavík and the surrounding northern Iceland region.
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Fosshotel Husavik (medium range hotel)
Fosshotel Húsavík is a great spot for anyone looking to explore this charming northern Iceland town. It's just a short walk to the harbor, where you can hop on a whale watching tour, and the rooms are modern and comfortable, featuring satellite TV and private bathrooms. Some rooms even offer scenic views of the area.
The hotel boasts an on-site restaurant perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring, plus free WiFi throughout. You’ll also have access to a 24-hour front desk for added convenience. The location is fantastic – close to everything in town and just a 45-minute drive to Lake Mývatn and around an hour to Dettifoss waterfall, making it an ideal base for exploring the region. With friendly staff and great amenities, Fosshotel Húsavík is a solid choice for your stay.
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Best hostels in Húsavík:
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Húsavík Green Hostel (hostel)
Húsavík Green Hostel is a cozy place right in the center of Húsavík, offering easy access to all the main attractions, particularly for those planning on whale watching. The hostel has a friendly, relaxed atmosphere with a shared lounge and kitchen where you can prepare meals and meet fellow travelers.
The rooms are basic but tidy and comfortable, with options ranging from twin and double rooms to a quadruple room with bunk beds for group stays. The staff here are especially helpful, always ready to provide tips on local sights and activities. With free WiFi and a peaceful garden for unwinding after a busy day, this is a great budget-friendly choice in a pricier area of Iceland. Just note that you'll be using shared bathrooms, which is typical for hostels.