Húsavík Area, Iceland Travel Guide

Discover Húsavík, Iceland's Whale Watching Capital, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and charming local culture.

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Húsavík Area

Nestled on the edge of Skjálfandi Bay, Húsavík is a charming town known for its rich history and stunning natural beauty. This northern gem is often referred to as the Whale Watching Capital of Iceland, thanks to its prime location for spotting these magnificent creatures. The town offers a variety of whale watching tours, giving visitors the chance to see humpback whales, minke whales, and even the elusive blue whale. Húsavík is not just about whales. The town is home to the Húsavík Whale Museum, which provides an in-depth look at the marine life of the region and the history of whaling in Iceland. For a touch of local culture, the Húsavík Church, with its unique wooden architecture, is a must-see. The town's harbor area is also a lovely spot to explore, with its colorful boats and charming cafes. Nature lovers will find plenty to do in the surrounding area. The nearby Húsavík Geothermal Sea Baths offer a relaxing soak with stunning views of the bay and mountains. The area also boasts several hiking trails, including those leading to the beautiful waterfall, Goðafoss, and the breathtaking Ásbyrgi Canyon. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Húsavík has something to offer everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Húsavík Area.

Book whale watching tours in advance, especially during the summer months.
Visit the Húsavík Whale Museum to gain insight into the marine life of the area.
Don't miss a visit to the Húsavík Geothermal Sea Baths for a relaxing experience.
Explore the nearby Goðafoss waterfall and Ásbyrgi Canyon for stunning natural scenery.
Dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable even in summer.

Explore Húsavík Area: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Húsavík Area

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Husavik Adventures

Discover the breathtaking experience of whale watching in Husavik with Husavik Adventures, where nature and adventure meet in Iceland's stunning landscapes.

4.8

Husavik Adventures

Experience the thrill of whale watching and explore Iceland's stunning landscapes with Husavik Adventures.

4.8

Húsavík Wooden Church

Explore the enchanting Húsavík Wooden Church, a stunning Lutheran gem surrounded by Iceland's breathtaking landscapes and rich maritime heritage.

4.6

Grenjaðarstaður - the Old Turfhouse

Discover the charm of Icelandic heritage at Grenjaðarstaður, the Old Turfhouse, a captivating museum in Húsavík.

4.3

Best landmarks in Húsavík Area

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North Sailing - Húsavík Whale Watching

Embark on an unforgettable whale watching tour with North Sailing in Húsavík, Iceland's stunning marine wonderland.

4.6

Gentle Giants - Husavik Whale Watching

Explore the majestic beauty of Iceland’s marine life with Gentle Giants in Husavik—an unparalleled whale watching adventure awaits you.

4.5

Geosea - Geothermal Sea Baths

Experience the rejuvenating bliss of Geosea, Húsavík's premier geothermal sea baths, surrounded by stunning ocean views and serene landscapes.

4.8

Húsavík Whale Museum

Explore the Húsavík Whale Museum, where marine history meets conservation in Iceland's picturesque whale watching capital.

4.6

Best restaurants in Húsavík Area

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Naustið

Discover Naustið in Húsavík – where fresh Icelandic seafood meets stunning coastal views for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.7

Gamli Baukur

Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Gamli Baukur in Húsavík - a culinary gem with stunning harbor views.

4.3

Salka Restaurant

Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Salka Restaurant in Húsavík - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

4.5

Fish and Chips

Discover Húsavík's best fish and chips - a culinary delight that brings you closer to Iceland's vibrant seafood heritage.

4.4

Best bars in Húsavík Area

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Naustið

Discover the finest seafood in Húsavík at Naustið, where local flavors and stunning views create an unforgettable dining experience.

4.7

Gamli Baukur

Discover the flavors of Iceland at Gamli Baukur, a cozy restaurant in Húsavík offering fresh seafood and breathtaking harbor views.

4.3

Salka Restaurant

Experience the best of Icelandic cuisine at Salka Restaurant, a must-visit culinary destination in Húsavík, offering fresh local ingredients and stunning views.

4.5

Fish and Chips

Experience authentic Icelandic fish and chips in Húsavík, where fresh seafood meets stunning coastal views.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Húsavík Area

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Naustið

Discover Naustið in Húsavík, a seafood gem offering fresh, locally-sourced dishes in a warm, nautical-inspired setting with stunning ocean views.

4.7

Salka Restaurant

Experience the rich flavors of Icelandic cuisine at Salka Restaurant in beautiful Húsavík, known for its fresh ingredients and warm hospitality.

4.5

Fosshotel Húsavík

Discover the beauty of Húsavík with a stay at Fosshotel, where comfort meets adventure in Iceland's whale watching capital.

4.4

Jaja Ding Dong Húsavík

Discover the vibrant essence of Húsavík at Jaja Ding Dong, where local culture, music, and delightful cuisine come together in one unforgettable venue.

4.7

Best shops in Húsavík Area

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Húsavík Whale Museum

Visit the Húsavík Whale Museum to explore Iceland's rich marine heritage through engaging exhibits and a unique souvenir store.

4.6

Fish and Chips

Discover the authentic taste of Icelandic seafood at Fish and Chips in Húsavík, a must-visit restaurant for tourists seeking delicious and fresh fish and chips.

4.4

Húsavík Harbor

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Húsavík Harbor, the heart of Iceland's whale-watching adventures and a hub of local culture.

4.6

Nettó

Explore Húsavík with ease by shopping at Nettó, your go-to supermarket for local products, snacks, and essential groceries.

4.1

Explore Húsavík Area on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Húsavík Area, mapped for you.

Húsavík Area Essentials

Húsavík is located in the northern part of Iceland. The nearest international airport is Keflavík International Airport, around 500 kilometers away. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Akureyri, which is about 90 kilometers from Húsavík. Alternatively, you can rent a car at Keflavík or Reykjavík and drive to Húsavík, which takes about 5-6 hours. Another option is to take a bus from Reykjavík or Akureyri to Húsavík.
Húsavík is a small town, and most of its attractions are within walking distance. For exploring the surrounding areas, renting a car is highly recommended as it provides the most flexibility. Local taxis are available but can be expensive. There are also bus services connecting Húsavík to other towns in the region, operated by Strætó and SBA-Norðurleið buses.
The official currency in Iceland is the Icelandic Króna (ISK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Húsavík, including in hotels, restaurants, and shops. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas where card payment might not be available. ATMs are available in Húsavík for cash withdrawals.
Húsavík is generally a very safe destination for tourists. Iceland has a low crime rate, and violent crime is rare. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places and avoiding leaving valuables in your car. There are no specific high-crime areas in Húsavík targeting tourists.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to emergency services, including police, fire, and medical services. The nearest hospital is in Akureyri, about 90 kilometers away, but there is a health clinic in Húsavík for minor medical issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can change rapidly. Waterproof and windproof clothing is essential. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs, although Iceland is largely secular. Public Transport: Do be respectful of other passengers and keep noise levels down. Don't eat or drink on public transport unless it's specifically allowed. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Halló' or 'Góðan daginn' (Good day). Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as fresh fish and traditional Icelandic dishes. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Húsavík like a local, visit the local geothermal baths and enjoy a dip in the naturally heated waters. Take a whale-watching tour, as Húsavík is known as the whale-watching capital of Iceland. Engage with locals at the Húsavík Whale Museum and learn about the town's rich maritime history. Don't miss the chance to try fresh seafood at local restaurants. For a unique experience, visit during the Húsavík Music Festival, which showcases local and international talent.

When is the best time to visit Húsavík Area?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Húsavík Area

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Húsavík Area. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHalló
  [HAH-loh]
- GoodbyeBless
  [bless]
- YesJá
  [YA]
- NoNei
  [nay]
- Please/You're welcomeTakk fyrir
  [tahk FEE-rir]
- Thank youTakk
  [tahk]
- Excuse me/SorryAfsakið
  [AHF-sah-kith]
- How are you?Hvað segir þú?
  [kvath SEY-ir tho]
- Fine. And you?Í góðu. Og þú?
  [ee GOH-thoo. ogh tho?]
- Do you speak English?Talar þú ensku?
  [TAH-lahr tho ENS-koo?]
- I don't understandÉg skil ekki
  [yeh shkil EK-ki]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseÉg ætla að skoða matseðilinn, takk
  [yeh EHT-lah ath SKOH-tha MATH-se-thil-inn, tahk]
- I don't eat meatÉg borða ekki kjöt
  [yeh BOR-tha EK-ki chyut]
- Cheers!Skál!
  [skowl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseÉg vildi greiða, takk
  [yeh VIL-thi gray-tha, tahk]
- Help!Hjálp!
  [HYOWLP]
- Go away!Farðu í burtu!
  [FAR-thoo ee BUR-too]
- Call the Police!Hringdu í lögregluna!
  [HRING-thoo ee LOH-greh-kloo-nah]
- Call a doctor!Hringdu í lækninn!
  [HRING-thoo ee LIK-nin]
- I'm lostÉg er týndur
  [yeh air TEEN-thur]
- I'm illÉg er veikur
  [yeh air VAY-kur]
- I'd like to buy...Ég ætla að kaupa...
  [yeh EHT-lah ath KOW-pa...]
- I'm just lookingÉg er bara að skoða
  [yeh air BA-ra ath SKOH-tha]
- How much is it?Hvað kostar það?
  [kvath KOS-tar thah]
- That's too expensiveÞað er of dýrt
  [thath air ohf DEERT]
- Can you lower the price?Getur þú lækkat verðið?
  [GETH-thur tho LAI-kat VER-thith]
- What time is it?Hvað er klukkan?
  [kvath air KLUTH-kahn]
- It's one o'clockKlukkan er eitt
  [KLUTH-kahn air ayth]
- Half past (10)Hálf tíu
  [howlf tee-oo]
- MorningMorgunn
  [MOR-gunn]
- AfternoonEftir hádegi
  [EF-thir HOW-deh-ye]
- EveningKvöld
  [kwuhlt]
- YesterdayÍ gær
  [ee gire]
- TodayÍ dag
  [ee dahg]
- TomorrowÁ morgun
  [ow MOR-gun]
- 1Eitt
  [ayth]
- 2Tvö
  [tvo]
- 3Þrjú
  [thryoo]
- 4Fjórir
  [fyoh-reer]
- 5Fimm
  [fim]
- 6Sex
  [sehx]
- 7Sjö
  [syoh]
- 8Átta
  [ow-thah]
- 9Níu
  [nee-uh]
- 10Tíu
  [tee-oo]
- Where's a/the...?Hvar er...
  [kvar air]
- What's the address?Hvað er heimilisfangið?
  [kvath air HAY-me-lis-fan-yeeth]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Getur þú sýnt mér (á kortinu)?
  [GETH-thur tho seent mair (ow KOR-tinoo)]
- When's the next (bus)?Hvenær kemur næsta (strætisvagn)?
  [KVEN-aihr KEH-mur NIGH-stah (stra-tee-svahn)]
- A ticket (to ....)Miða (til ....)
  [MEE-tha (teel ....)]

History of Húsavík Area

Húsavík is believed to be one of the earliest settlements in Iceland. According to the Landnámabók (Book of Settlements), a Swedish Viking named Garðar Svavarsson was the first to winter in Iceland around 870 AD. He named the place Húsavík, which translates to 'Bay of Houses'. This early settlement marks the beginning of Húsavík's rich history.
During the medieval period, the Church had a significant influence on Húsavík. The town's first church was built in the 11th century, and it became an important ecclesiastical center. Húsavík Church, which stands today, was built in 1907 and is a prime example of Icelandic wooden church architecture, reflecting the town's historical connection to Christianity.
Húsavík has a long history connected to whaling. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, whaling was a crucial industry for the town, providing jobs and economic stability. The Húsavík Whale Museum, established in 1997, showcases this heritage and educates visitors about the marine life in Skjálfandi Bay. The museum is a testament to the town's ongoing relationship with the sea and its natural inhabitants.
In the early 20th century, Húsavík transitioned from a whaling hub to a fishing town. The establishment of fish processing plants helped the local economy thrive. Fishing remains an essential part of Húsavík's identity, with the harbor bustling with activity and local fisheries contributing significantly to the town's prosperity.
World War II had a notable impact on Húsavík. The British and later the American military established a presence in Iceland, including in the Húsavík area. The construction of an airfield and other infrastructure during this time brought modernization and employment opportunities to the town, leaving a lasting legacy on its development.
In recent decades, Húsavík has emerged as a prominent tourist destination, particularly known for whale watching. The town's strategic location on Skjálfandi Bay provides an ideal spot for observing various whale species. Húsavík's blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural offerings has made it a must-visit location in Iceland, attracting visitors from around the world.