City Guide for: Husavik, Iceland

Food & Cuisine

The culinary scene in Husavik, as you might expect, largely revolves around fresh seafood, with local catches like cod, haddock, and arctic char featuring prominently on menus. You’ll find cozy restaurants serving up traditional Icelandic fish dishes, often prepared simply to let the quality of the ingredients shine. Don't miss the chance to try a hearty fish soup, perfect after a chilly whale watching tour. While there isn't a vast array of high-end dining, places like Gamli Baukur and Naustið are popular choices, offering a warm atmosphere and delicious, honest fare. Beyond seafood, you can also find Icelandic lamb dishes and more casual options like pizza and burgers, catering to a diverse range of tastes in this popular tourist destination.

Nightlife

Husavik’s nightlife is, true to its small-town charm, quite relaxed and low-key. You won't find bustling nightclubs or extensive late-night entertainment districts here. Instead, evenings are best spent unwinding at one of the town's cozy pubs or restaurant-bars. These establishments offer a comfortable setting to enjoy a local beer, chat with fellow travelers, or simply reflect on the day's adventures. Places around the harbor area tend to be the liveliest, especially during the summer months when the town sees more visitors. It's the kind of place where you might enjoy a quiet drink and soak in the midnight sun (or chase the Northern Lights, depending on the season) rather than dance until dawn.

Best Time to Visit

For the prime whale watching experience and the most accessible outdoor activities, the best time to visit Husavik is undoubtedly during the summer months, from June to August. This period offers the highest chances of spotting various whale species, longer daylight hours (including the famous midnight sun), and milder weather conditions, making boat tours and hiking more enjoyable. If you prefer fewer crowds and are still hoping for whale sightings, the shoulder seasons of May and September can also be excellent, though services might be slightly reduced. For those chasing the elusive Northern Lights, visiting between October and April offers the best dark skies, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially more challenging weather, and whale watching tours may be limited or unavailable.

Transportation

Within Husavik itself, you'll find that most of the town's attractions, including the harbor, museums, and local eateries, are easily accessible on foot. It’s a small, walkable community. There isn't an extensive public transportation system like buses, trams, or subways within Husavik. For exploring the wider Diamond Circle area or connecting to other towns, intercity buses do operate, though services are less frequent than in more populated regions. Many visitors opt to rent a car for greater flexibility in exploring the surrounding North Iceland landscapes.

Airport

Husavik has its own small airport, Húsavík Airport (HZK), located just about 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the town center. It primarily handles domestic flights, typically connecting to Reykjavik. From HZK, a short taxi ride or pre-arranged shuttle is the most convenient way to reach Husavik. Alternatively, many travelers flying internationally arrive at Akureyri Airport (AEY), which is about 90 kilometers (56 miles) south of Husavik. AEY is a larger regional airport with more domestic connections and some international charter flights. From Akureyri, you'll need to rent a car or take a scheduled bus service (which might require a transfer) to reach Husavik, a journey that typically takes about an hour to an hour and a half by road. The main international gateway to Iceland, Keflavík International Airport (KEF), is located near Reykjavik, a significant drive (approximately 5-6 hours) from Husavik, so flying domestically from KEF to HZK or AEY is highly recommended for direct access.

Attractions

Day Trips