Ísafjörður, Iceland - Cruise Port
Ísafjörður, located in northwest Iceland’s rugged Westfjords, is a small, quiet town often used as a jumping-off point for popular excursions. With its isolated location and fjords surrounding it, the town offers fewer tourists than other parts of Iceland, making it a serene destination for those who enjoy the great outdoors. While many visitors opt for tours to places like Dynjandi Waterfall or Vigur Island, we decided to explore the town itself—and it was definitely worth it!
Updates:
Port and Transport Basics:
Ísafjörður's dock is located in an industrial area, just a short walk from the town center. Two ships can line up here, but in busier times, ships tender passengers to shore. Currently, the dock is a work in progress, and we’re looking forward to a future terminal with added amenities.
Just before the dock exit, there’s a must-visit tourist info hut. It’s packed with local tour flyers—some of them quite enticing—plus plenty of seating to meet fellow travelers or escape Iceland’s famously brisk weather.
Getting Around
If you’re not on a tour, here’s how to navigate Ísafjörður:
No rideshare services – There are none in Iceland.
Taxis – Mostly pre-booked for private tours.
Hop-On Hop-Off (HOHO) Bus – A great option to reach nearby hiking trails and sights beyond the immediate town.
Scooter Rentals – Available through the Hopp app.
Bike Rentals – Available in town at Fjordhub (more on that later).
Car Rentals – Limited and inconvenient. Hertz is at the distant airport (requires a cab), and Europcar has an office in a local hotel with mixed reviews.
Tip:
Bundle up for the cold winds and possible rain. This is Iceland, after all!
Exploring the Town
Walking into town, we took an industrial route, passing a small marina (a launch point for whale-watching tours) and getting glimpses of the local fishing industry in action. Ísafjörður isn’t polished for tourists—no Diamonds International here! Instead, you’ll find colorful corrugated tin-roofed buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Also, cats. Lots of cats.
Ísafjörður’s town center is compact and walkable, and there’s no shortage of local charm. The Fjordhub bike rental shop, just a block from the center, offers a variety of bikes, from city bikes to mountain bikes, and is a great option if you want to explore the area on two wheels.
In the heart of the town, you’ll find the rainbow path, which leads to several stores, cafes, and the Hornstrandir Visitor Center. This free center features exhibits about the northernmost peninsula of Iceland and even offers a VR experience that lets you virtually explore Iceland’s rugged landscapes.
The Perfect Isafjordur Hike
After exploring town, we set our sights on Urðarvegur Lookout, an accessible but rewarding hike. Here’s what to expect:
Start at the town park, home to:
A modern church with a striking bird sculpture.
A fishermen’s memorial sculpture.
A fun outdoor play area with a trampoline and hammock.
The old hospital-turned-library and cultural center, a hidden gem with exhibits and elegant seating rooms (and bathrooms!).
Follow the road uphill for 5–10 minutes to reach the trail entrance.
Pass through fields of lupins, with plenty of photo ops along the way.
Climb the stairs to the observation deck – the views are stunning, but don’t stop here!
Continue up the rock trail – the higher you go, the better the panorama.
Take it slow – loose rocks make the trail tricky in parts. One hiker took a tumble, so watch your step.
At the top, soak in the view of the entire town and surrounding fjords. If you’re feeling adventurous, keep climbing!
This hike is perfect for an independent, time-flexible excursion, with options to continue exploring further. Expect to spend at least an hour enjoying the scenery.
Final Thoughts:
Ísafjörður may be small, but it’s packed with charm and offers plenty to see and do. From hiking and exploring the town's colorful buildings and history to relaxing in a local pub with a drink, it’s a place worth visiting. If you want a quieter experience in Iceland, staying in town and exploring at your own pace might just be the perfect option. The town’s combination of nature, history, and friendly atmosphere made for a fulfilling visit. We would definitely return!