In the Eastfjords of Iceland, Seyðisfjörður is a cute little village. The little blue church and the colorful street that leads to it are what Seyðisfjörður is best known for. You must have seen pictures of it online, right? But this cute town has a lot more to offer, and you should include it in your plans if you want to see the Icelandic Eastfjords.
The Eastfjords are an Underrated Area
I believe that East Iceland, or the Eastfjords as we commonly call the area, is one of the most overlooked parts of Iceland. A lot of people who drive on the Ring Road just pass through the area. Most of the time, they stop at Stuðlagil (which is a beautiful place) and then go to the northern part of the country to see places like Lake Mývatn, Dettifoss, Ásbyrgi, and more.
I really don’t understand why so many people keep this place out of their plans. It’s not because it doesn’t have any beautiful scenery or fun places to visit. Not at all. People who don’t include the Eastfjords in their plans are missing out on a lot.
You could visit beautiful waterfalls like Hengifoss and Klifbrekkufossar, as well as the many fjords with their beautiful mountains and small towns. Check out Borgarfjörður Eystri. In the summer, you can see puffins there, and there are many beautiful climbing trails. Take a trip to interesting places like Saenautssel and relax in a volcanic bath called Vök. To name a few.
Things to do in Seyðisfjörður
Last but not least, you should go to Seyðisfjörður. But why? There doesn’t seem to be much to see or do in this small village. Even though the Ring Road and Egilsstaðir, the largest town in the area, are only 30 minutes away by car.
- The drive to Seyðisfjörður is very beautiful.
- Take a walk around the village.
- Learn about Seyðisfjörður’s history and culture.
- A short walk takes you to Tvísöngur, an art installation above the village.
- The blue church and Rainbow Street
- Gufufoss Falls of Water
Take a hike 1. The Beautiful Drive to Seyðisfjörður
You have to drive through a mountain pass between Egillsstaðir and Seyðisfjörður to get there. This drive is really beautiful, and I think it’s enough to make a trip to Seyðisfjörður worthwhile. If you’re lucky enough to be there on a clear day.
It should only take about 30 minutes to drive from Egilsstaðir to Seyðisfjörður, but I’m pretty sure it will take you longer. Without a doubt, you’ll want to get out of the car and take pictures or just enjoy the view along the way.
You can park your car in a small lot on the side of the road before going down the mountain. It’s easy to spot because of the big stone statue that stands there. A clear day will give you a stunning view of Seyðisfjörður, which is tucked between three beautiful mountain ranges and the ocean on the fourth.
On the mountain pass, it might snow, maybe even a lot if you go in the spring or even in June. Not always on the road, but sometimes on the ground and in the mountains around it.
But this road is not only scary, it’s also very dangerous in the winter. The part where you drive to the town from the mountain is my favorite. I don’t think this drive is worth it in the winter or during the summer season. Before you leave, please check the road conditions.
2. Take a walk around the village.
When you get to Seyðisfjörður, you don’t need to have a plan. Take your time and enjoy everything the town has to offer. Even though only about 800 people live in Seyðisfjörður, it’s very busy, especially in the summer.
- Explore the village’s many cute and bright homes that were built in the early 1900s.
- Check out the shops in your area that sell things made by local artists and craftspeople. You might discover the ideal memento or one-of-a-kind present for someone back home.
- Find a place to eat or drink to fuel up. Considering how small the village is, there are a lot of them.
3. Look into Seyðisfjörður’s cultural side
As you walk around the town, you can feel the bohemian vibe and see that art of some kind is very important to the people who live there.
Joystick Gallery of Art
One of my favorite things we did on our last trip to Seyðisfjörður was visit the art gallery Joystick. Everything there is made out of trash or things the artists have found in Seyðisfjörður’s nature.
I didn’t know about it before I got there; I found it by accident while walking around the town.
If the artist is there, you can pay him a small fee to show you around the gallery. Something I really think you should do. The artist was very interesting, and he had a lot of stories to share. The visit was fun and interesting.
Outside the building, there is a lot of art to look at, but please don’t go into the yard by yourself. Please follow the signs that say not to do that without the artist’s permission.
I feel bad saying this, but I can’t remember the artist’s name and he’s not on social media. Or anywhere else on the web for that matter. But you can’t miss this gallery, which is near the lake. It’s hard to miss because the house and the area around it are both full of bright art.
Art fairs in Seyðisfjörður
Seyðisfjörður has a lively arts scene that shows in lots of different ways. It is called Skaftfell and it is a center for the visual arts in East Iceland. It has a flower shop, a studio, a bistro, and a place for artists to work.
There is also an art residency in the town called “Heima.” A lot of artists have lived here, for short or long periods of time.
The town of Seyðisfjörður has a lot of art-related events every year that bring in guests and tourists.
Festival of Lunga art
It takes place every year in July and is an art event for young artists that lasts for a week. Since the very first one in 2000, it has become a well-known part of the art scene in Seyðisfjörður.
Here’s what the festival’s website says about it to give you a better idea of what it’s all about:
“Workshops, lectures, and events at this small art festival honor creativity, the arts, and culture.”(…) LungA has a great name both in and outside of Hong Kong for its great atmosphere, high-quality workshops, and the amazing energy of its participants year after year.
A series of summer concerts at Blue Church
As you might guess from the name, the Blue Church summer music series takes place in the town’s well-known blue church. There should be a variety of music types on the show, with classical, jazz, blues, folk, and lighter pieces getting extra attention.
If you’re in Seyðisfjörður on a Wednesday night in July or early August, you should see if the show that night sounds good to you.
List í ljósi, or Art in the Light
The mountains in Seyðisfjörður and other narrow bays are so high that the sun never shines above them in the winter. Like you might guess, people in the area enjoy every time they finally see the sun after a long winter.
This is exactly what the Art in the Light event is all about. The sun going back down over the narrow bay in the east. The village turns off all of its lights for the last two days of darkness, and instead, amazing modern works by artists from around the world light up the village.
I have never been to Seyðisfjörður in February, but this sounds like a great time. To get to the town in the middle of winter, I would have to be very brave to drive down the mountain. We’ll see if I ever make it. That sounds really scary to me!
4 A short walk to Tvísöngur
Check out Tvísöngur, the song sculpture that looks funny that is built into the side of a mountain above the town. You have to walk up a dirt road that starts across from Brimberg Fish Factory to get there. Google Maps will show you where to park in Tvisongur.
It takes about 15 to 20 minutes to walk, and then you need time to look around this one-of-a-kind piece of art.
A sound sculpture called Tvísöngur was made by the German artist Lukas Kühne. The sculpture can be seen as a representation of the custom of five-tone harmony, and it gives off an aural sensation that you can try out while you’re there. So why don’t you let out your inner singer and sing a song or two inside Tvísöngur? You might sound great, who knows? Remember to record on your phone!
The Blue Church and 5 Rainbow Street landmarks in Seyðisfjörður.
The famous rainbow street and the cute blue church in the background are two things that you have to do when you visit Seyðisfjörður. It’s an important job!
It is said that the rainbow street was painted by people who lived in Seyðisfjörður and some workers of the town during a Pride Parade in 2016.
In the town two years ago, the first Pride Parade took place. There is a big Pride Parade in Reykjavík every year, but in 2014, someone from Seyðisfjörður wasn’t able to make it to Reykjavík in time to join the parade there. His friends and he chose to hold their own parade in Seyðisfjörður.
Since then, the Pride Parade, or the Queer Parade as some like to call it, has been held every year in Seyðisfjörður. More than 200 people take part.
6. Gufufoss WaterFalls
It’s about 4 km (2.5 mi) from Seyðisfjörður to the beautiful Gufufoss Waterfall. It’s easy to miss on your way down the mountain, even though it’s right next to the main road. This parking spot is very small and not signed, so be sure to look for it on your way back. Once more.
You can park right next to the waterfall, so all you have to do is walk about 100 meters (330 feet) to get close to it. A stream that is easy to get to. No need for a walk.
There are more waterfalls further up the river, though, if you walk that way. I can’t really tell you more about it though because I didn’t do it myself.
7. Take a hike
In the area around Seyðisfjörður, there are a lot of named hiking trails. You can buy a brochure about these tracks at the information center. Even though I haven’t done any of them yet, I wanted to bring this up because I would love to do some of them myself someday .
Find out how to get to Seyðisfjörður.
You have to drive through a mountain pass between Egilsstaðir and Seyðisfjörður to get there. One way, it’s about 26 km away from the Ring Road.
Either our own car or a rental is the best way to get there.
Take a bus from Egilsstaðir, which is the second choice.
Here is the list of events.
You can also take the boat, which is the third choice. The ferry Norröna brings about 20,000 people to Seyðisfjörður every year. It goes from Denmark to Iceland with a stop on the Faroe Islands.
German tourists really like this choice, and they are by far the largest group of nationalities that comes to Iceland with Norröna.
That’s all for now. If you liked this post and think your friends might too, please help me get the word out. If you could share it on social media or send it to a friend, that would be great..
Last thoughts on Seyðisfjörður…
As we finish our tour of Seyðisfjörður, it’s clear that this charming town in East Iceland is a hidden gem just waiting to be found. From its lively arts scene and cultural attractions to its beautiful natural surroundings, Seyðisfjörður gives tourists looking for a peaceful getaway a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable experience.
Prepare your things, take the path not many people take, and let Seyðisfjörður’s beauty and peace charm you. Enjoy the magic of this cute town and make memories that will last a lifetime in this oasis in Iceland.
We hope this guide has made you want to see Seyðisfjörður and all it has to offer. Have a safe trip until next time, and may your adventures in Seyðisfjörður be full of wonder and happiness.
Faqs on tour of Seyðisfjörður..
1. What are the best times of year to visit Seyðisfjörður?
Seyðisfjörður is beautiful year-round, but the summer months (June to August) offer longer days and milder weather, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the village.
2. Are there any unique cultural events or festivals in Seyðisfjörður?
Seyðisfjörður is known for its vibrant arts scene and hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including the Seyðisfjörður Blue Church Concert Series and the LungA Art Festival. Check local event calendars for upcoming festivals.
3. What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Seyðisfjörður?
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Seyðisfjörður, including hiking, biking, kayaking, and birdwatching. The surrounding mountains and fjords offer stunning vistas and opportunities for exploration.
4. Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known attractions in Seyðisfjörður?
While Seyðisfjörður’s main attractions are well-known, don’t miss the opportunity to explore lesser-known spots like the Tvisongur Sound Sculpture or take a stroll along the picturesque harbor for a unique perspective of the village.
5. Is Seyðisfjörður easily accessible by public transportation?
Seyðisfjörður is accessible by bus from Egilsstaðir, and the village’s port welcomes international cruise ships during the summer months. Renting a car is also a convenient way to explore the region at your own pace.
6. What dining options are available in Seyðisfjörður?
Seyðisfjörður boasts a variety of dining options, from cozy cafes and bakeries to seafood restaurants serving freshly caught local fare. Don’t miss the chance to sample Icelandic specialties like langoustine and skyr.
7. Are there accommodations in Seyðisfjörður for overnight stays?
Seyðisfjörður offers a range of accommodations, including guesthouses, hotels, and hostels. Whether you prefer a cozy room with a view of the fjord or a charming guesthouse in the village center, there are options to suit every traveler’s preference.
8. What are some tips for making the most of a visit to Seyðisfjörður?
To make the most of your visit to Seyðisfjörður, be sure to pack layers for changing weather, plan ahead for any outdoor activities, and take the time to immerse yourself in the local culture and natural beauty of this charming East Icelandic village. Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon
Hi, I’m Linda Milone, a travel enthusiast and safety advocate. I created Safe Travel Quest to share my passion for exploring new destinations while staying safe and informed. When I’m not planning my next adventure, you can find me researching the latest travel trends and tips. Follow safetravelquest along for practical advice and inspiring stories to help you travel with confidence.