Eyrarbakki

Ready to discover Iceland’s best-kept secret? Just 45 minutes from Reykjavik lies a charming fishing village that’ll steal your heart faster than you can say “puffin.”

Picture this: colorful wooden houses lined up like a children’s storybook, black sand beaches where the Atlantic crashes dramatically, and zero tourist crowds fighting for that perfect Instagram shot. Welcome to Eyrarbakki, where time moves slower and every sunset feels like a personal show just for you.

Why Eyrarbakki Should Be Your Next Iceland Adventure

Let’s be honest – everyone hits up the Blue Lagoon and Golden Circle (and hey, no judgment here!). But if you’re craving something more authentic, somewhere you can actually breathe and connect with Iceland’s soul, Eyrarbakki is calling your name.

This tiny village of around 570 residents was once Iceland’s most important trading center, bustling with Danish merchants and fishermen. Today, it’s like stepping into a living museum where locals still wave hello and every building has a story to tell.

Must-See Attractions That’ll Blow Your Mind

Húsið (The House) – Step Back 260 Years

Built in 1765, Húsið is one of Iceland’s oldest buildings and now serves as the Árnessýsla Heritage Museum. This isn’t your typical stuffy museum experience – it’s where Danish merchant families lived for two centuries, making it a center for art and European culture when most Icelanders were still living in turf houses.

Pro tip: The royal altarpiece in the village church was actually painted by the Queen of Denmark herself. Talk about royal treatment!

Maritime Museum – Tales from the Sea

Feeling the maritime vibes? The Maritime Museum takes you back to when brave sailors rowed out to sea every single day, facing Iceland’s notoriously unpredictable weather. It’s a humbling reminder of just how tough life was (and still is) on these dramatic coasts.

Women’s Book Lounge – Literary Love

Here’s something special – an educational museum dedicated entirely to Icelandic female writers. Whether you’re a bookworm or just appreciate badass women breaking barriers, this intimate space celebrates Iceland’s literary heroines.

Experiences You Can’t Get Anywhere Else

Watch Epic Sunsets That Last Forever

Winter visitors, you’re in for a treat. The epic 1.5-hour winter sunsets here are absolutely unbeatable. The sun starts its slow dance around 4:45 PM and doesn’t fully set until 6:00 PM. Grab a warm drink, find a spot on the black sand beach, and prepare for nature’s greatest show.

Meet the Locals at Bakkastofa

Want to experience authentic Icelandic culture? Valgeir and Ásta at Bakkastofa offer unforgettable visits with their Saga Music 101 Show, featuring music and storytelling. These aren’t just performers – they’re your window into Iceland’s rich cultural heritage, and they’re genuinely lovely people who’ll make you feel like family.

Bird Watching Paradise

Nature lovers, rejoice! The nearby Flói Bird Reserve is listed as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International. During summer, you might spot Arctic terns, puffins, and various waterfowl. Even if you’re not typically a birder, there’s something magical about watching these resilient creatures thrive in such a dramatic landscape.

Kayaking Adventures

For the adventurous souls, kayaking between Eyrarbakki and its sister village Stokkseyri offers a unique perspective of the coastline. You’ll paddle through calm inland waterways and open sea, with curious seals often joining your journey.

Where to Stay and Eat

Accommodation Options for Every Budget

• Budget-friendly: The local hostel and campsite offer basic but clean accommodations
• Mid-range: Cozy guesthouses provide that authentic Icelandic hospitality
• Unique stays: Beach cottages where you can fall asleep to the sound of Atlantic waves

Dining That’ll Surprise You

Don’t let the small size fool you – Eyrarbakki punches above its weight when it comes to food. You’ll find everything from fresh seafood (obviously!) to surprisingly good Thai cuisine. The local restaurant sources ingredients locally and creates dishes that perfectly capture the essence of coastal Iceland.

Day Trip or Extended Stay?

Perfect Day Trip from Reykjavik (45 minutes)

• Morning: Explore Húsið and the Maritime Museum
• Lunch: Local restaurant with ocean views
• Afternoon: Walk the black sand beaches and visit the church
• Sunset: Position yourself on the shore for that epic sunset show
• Bonus: Quick visit to neighboring Stokkseyri for the Ghost Center (if you dare!)

Why Stay Longer

Honestly? Because rushing through Eyrarbakki defeats the purpose. This is where you come to decompress, to remember what silence sounds like, and to appreciate life’s simpler pleasures. Many artists have chosen to stay here for the inspirational quality – the mysterious light, the energy from the Atlantic Ocean, and the stillness that envelopes it all.

Getting There and Practical Tips

Coordinates: 63°52′N 21°09′W

From Reykjavik: Take Ring Road 1 east, then follow roads 39, 38, and finally 34. The drive is straightforward and absolutely gorgeous.

Best time to visit:

• Summer (June-August): Midnight sun, active birdlife, warmest weather
• Winter (December-February): Dramatic sunsets, fewer crowds, possible Northern Lights
• Shoulder seasons: Perfect balance of daylight and tranquility

What to bring:

• Warm, waterproof layers (this is Iceland, after all!)
• Good walking shoes for the rocky shoreline
• Camera (trust us on this one)
• An appetite for fresh seafood

Why Eyrarbakki Matters

In our hyper-connected, always-on world, places like Eyrarbakki are becoming increasingly precious. This isn’t just another stop on your Iceland itinerary – it’s a reminder of what we’re all searching for: authenticity, connection, and moments of pure wonder.

Whether you’re a history buff, photographer, or just someone who enjoys exploring Iceland’s hidden treasures, Eyrarbakki truly embodies the spirit of the country’s coastal heritage.

So next time you’re planning your Iceland adventure, skip the crowded hotspots for a few hours and discover what the locals have known all along – sometimes the best experiences come in the smallest packages.

Ready to fall in love with Iceland’s most charming fishing village? Eyrarbakki is waiting for you.

Have you visited Eyrarbakki? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below – this amazing community deserves all the love it can get!