Edge of the Arctic Circle in Akureyri, Northern Iceland Upgrade
Your front-row seat to the Aurora
Now accessible via direct flights from the UK, the remote beauty of Akureyri is now within easy reach. Be among the first to explore this stunning, lesser-known part of Iceland, ideally smaller and less crowded than Reykjavik, and perfect for spotting the Northern Lights. This magical getaway includes a stay at a handpicked hotel with return transfers, plus a classic small group Northern Lights tour.
This upgrade includes entry to the Forest Lagoon, and a Whale Watching Tour!
What's Included
- Return flights to Akureyri (AEY)
- Return Shuttle Airport Transfers
- 4 nights in Akureyri at Hotel Akureyri
- Northern Lights Classic Small Group Tour
PLUS!
- Entrance to the Forest Lagoon (with towel rental)
- Whale Watching Tour
Great Ways to Explore
Enjoy an unforgettable Northern Lights experience.
Walk along Eyjafjörður fjord and enjoy panoramic views.
Visit the Forest Lagoon with included entry.
Indulge in local, authentic Icelandic cuisine.
Discover the charm of Akureyri, Iceland’s vibrant northern capital — smaller, less touristy, and filled with authentic Icelandic experiences. Nestled along the stunning Eyjafjörður fjord, this picturesque town offers a slower pace and a front-row seat to Iceland’s natural wonders. With fewer city lights and clearer skies than Reykjavik, Akureyri is one of the best places in the country to witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights.
This unforgettable getaway includes a Northern Lights Classic Small Group Tour, giving you the chance to chase the aurora borealis in comfort with an expert local guide. You'll also enjoy entrance to the iconic Forest Lagoon and whale watching tour.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Return flights to Akureyri (AEY)
- Return Shuttle Airport Transfers
- 4 nights in Akureyri at Hotel Akureyri
- Northern Lights Classic Small Group Tour
PLUS!
- Entrance to the Forest Lagoon (with towel rental)
- Whale Watching Tour
Enjoy an unforgettable Northern Lights experience.
Walk along Eyjafjörður fjord and enjoy panoramic views.
Visit the Forest Lagoon with included entry.
Indulge in local, authentic Icelandic cuisine.
Discover the charm of Akureyri, Iceland’s vibrant northern capital — smaller, less touristy, and filled with authentic Icelandic experiences. Nestled along the stunning Eyjafjörður fjord, this picturesque town offers a slower pace and a front-row seat to Iceland’s natural wonders. With fewer city lights and clearer skies than Reykjavik, Akureyri is one of the best places in the country to witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights.
This unforgettable getaway includes a Northern Lights Classic Small Group Tour, giving you the chance to chase the aurora borealis in comfort with an expert local guide. You'll also enjoy entrance to the iconic Forest Lagoon and whale watching tour.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Prices From:
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to Iceland!
Upon arrival in Iceland, take your comfortable transfer to your hotel and check in. Get settled, relax for a bit, and then enjoy your exclusive Northern Lights tour.
Shuttle transfer from airport to hotel
Check-in - Hotel Akureyri
Nestled in the heart of North Iceland's charming capital, Hotel Akureyri offers a stylish and convenient base for exploring the region’s natural wonders. The hotel is perfectly located within walking distance of the town’s shops, cafés, and the picturesque waterfront.
Guests can enjoy panoramic views of Eyjafjörður fjord from many rooms, adding a serenity to their stay. Warm Nordic décor and modern comforts create a welcoming atmosphere throughout the property. Each morning, guests are treated to a fresh, locally sourced breakfast in the cozy lounge area. Complimentary parking and easy access to popular sites like Goðafoss and Lake Mývatn make it an ideal choice for self-driving passengers. Whether you're chasing the Northern Lights or soaking in nearby geothermal baths, Hotel Akureyri blends comfort, convenience, and Icelandic charm.
Join a magical winter night adventure in search of the Northern Lights, led by a top-rated local guide. This unforgettable tour takes you away from the city lights and into the peaceful countryside, where the aurora has the best chance of shining in all its natural beauty and vibrant color.
As you journey under the stars, your expert guide will share fascinating Icelandic folklore and stories, adding to the enchantment of the experience. While the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and sightings depend on weather conditions, if no lights are spotted and the guide confirms it, you’ll be offered a free retry on the next available night tour.
Day 2. Akureyri
The day is yours to explore the area!
Day 3. Akureyri
Indulge in a day of rest and relaxation with included entry to the Forest Lagoon.
Forest Lagoon is designed to deliver a truly unique spa experience, where every detail contributes to a sense of tranquility and renewal. Set against the stunning backdrop of Eyjafjörður—one of Iceland’s longest fjords—and surrounded by birch and pine forest, this geothermal retreat offers a serene and scenic escape.
The facilities include a 530 m² geothermal pool heated to 98–102°F (37–39°C), a warmer soaking pool at 102–106°F (39–41°C), a refreshing cold plunge at around 54°F (12°C), and a dry Finnish sauna. All guests have access to these areas. Bathrobes and swimwear are available for rent if needed.
Forest Bistro, located within the spa, offers an exceptional dining experience in a wood-paneled setting with panoramic fjord views and a cozy indoor fireplace—an ideal complement to a day of relaxation at the lagoon.
Day 4. Akureyri
Enjoy your classic whale watching tour this morning! Afterwards, explore more of Akureyri at your leisure. This evening, savour a delicious local dinner and unwind with a peaceful night in town.
Embark on a premier marine adventure through Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord, on a whale watching expedition. Led by highly qualified guides, these tours offer deep insights into local wildlife, environmental conservation, and the rich history of the fjord. Passengers can focus entirely on the horizon while the crew captures professional photographs, which are shared with all guests following the excursion.
The fleet consists of three substantial, purpose-built vessels designed specifically for safe and sustainable encounters. The flagship vessel stands as Iceland’s only high-speed, modified whale watching ship, featuring "cinema-style" viewing platforms for up to 200 passengers. This superior speed ensures consistent sightings throughout the fjord, while extensive indoor seating, a full-service bar, and a cafeteria provide a warm, comfortable environment regardless of the weather.
Departures are conveniently located at the Whale Watching Akureyri ticket office at Oddeyrarbót pier, situated directly beside the distinctive circular HOF building in downtown Akureyri.
Day 5. Depart Iceland
Your incredible trip to Iceland has unfortunately come to an end. Have one last breakfast at the hotel before taking your transfer to the airport and boarding your flight home.
Shuttle transfer from hotel to airport
Fly home
Advertised Great Value Holiday prices are per person based on two people travelling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised Great Value Holidays are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, where available via the Great Value Holidays website and may not represent current prices.
Great Value Holidays are subject to availability, are capacity controlled, may not be available on every date, and may be restricted to certain hotel room categories. Higher rates may also be available throughout travel period. Full payment is required to fully confirm reservation. Rates cannot be combined with any other discount/promotion, and are valid for new bookings only. Offers may be changed or withdrawn at any time without notice. Website contains special pricing that is exclusively for Internet sale only.
Promo Code Offer Details (where applicable): All promotions are subject to availability, valid for new bookings only, cannot be combined with any other promotion, discount, voucher or any other offers, and are not redeemable for cash. Promotional codes may be input online on the payment screen. Discounts will apply only once per passenger and are not valid for any other products or services.
Go to our Booking Terms and Conditions for full details on change/cancellation policy.