A Taste of Akureyri
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Port
Akureyri, Iceland
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
Information Not Currently Available
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$200
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
From Akureyri, you'll drive to one of Iceland's most famous turf houses at Laufás. The 19th-century turf farmhouse here was built in the traditional Icelandic style of stone and turf. It is an interesting regional museum and has the original implements and equipment so essential to life in past centuries, and a beautiful country church (1865). The Icelandic turf house was the product of a difficult climate, offering superior insulation compared to buildings solely made of wood or stone. The relative difficulty of obtaining other construction materials in sufficient quantities also played a significant role in the adoption of turf as a building material. This is a genuine glimpse into the Icelanders' way of life from the 9th century to the 19th century.
Return to Akureyri, the capital of the north. The influences of its Danish trading past prevail in this town. You will notice the many contrasts in its interesting and varied architecture as you enjoy a panoramic drive.
Stop at the Nonni Museum, where an exhibit commemorates the children's books written by Pastor John Sveinsson in the 1913-1940s. 'Nonni' left Iceland at a young age, lived all over Europe and wrote his books in German. He died during World War II in Cologne in 1944.
Next, head to the central church for a great view over the fjord and your ship. Walk down Art Alley, where local artisans keep their workshops and galleries.
Your final stop is at a local café -- the Bláa Kannan Café, situated in the center of town. The café is renowned for its homemade terta. The name comes from Latin word torta, but it is a cake that is commonly made in Icelandic homes for special occasions. Among the choices are Devil's Terta, Marens Terta, Chocolate Terta, Orange Terta, and Vienna Terta -- you absolutely cannot go wrong! Enjoy coffee or tea, or the café's popular hot chocolate with fresh cream.
Walk off your snack with some free time for browsing or shopping in the core of Akureyri. Guests who wish to stay in town to shop or explore independently are welcome to do so, but must return to the ship on their own.
Please note: Dress warmly in layers with a wind- and waterproof outer layer; bring gloves, a scarf and a warm hat. Wear sturdy, closed-toe, non-skid shoes. All walking is optional; however, the main sights are not easily accessible to guests using mobility aids. The Laufás Museum has low ceilings and high thresholds; it is not wheelchair accessible. Guests using a wheelchair can opt to stay on/near the coach, visit the church next to the museum, and enjoy the lovely view of the Eyjafjordur Fjord. The terrain around Akureyri Church is a somewhat steep incline; alternatively, 115 steps lead from the church down to the town center. Parents traveling with children under the age of 3 must rent a child's car seat from the tour operator; please see the Destination staff on board. You cannot use your child's car seat from home in Iceland.