Húsavík

North Iceland

Location

Húsavík is a small, charming town located in the northeastern part of Iceland, known for its stunning natural surroundings, rich history, and reputation as one of the best places in the world for whale watching. You can see Flatey island from town and on a good day all the way to Grímsey island. More than 3,000 people live in Norðurþing municipality of which about 2,400 live in Húsavík.

 

History

Húsavík has a long history dating back to the Viking Age. The name "Húsavík" translates to "bay of houses," which may refer to the town’s settlement by early Norsemen. It has traditionally been a fishing village, and fishing continues to be a significant part of the local economy. The town also has a small, yet rich cultural history, which can be explored in its museums and heritage sites.

 

Activites

Húsavík is often referred to as the "whale watching capital of Iceland." The town is located along Skjálfandi Bay, which is an excellent area for spotting several whale species, including humpback whales, minke whales, and even the occasional blue whale. Tour operators in the area offer boat tours where visitors can get up close to these majestic creatures, and it’s a must-do activity for many travelers to Iceland.

Despite its small size, Húsavík has become a popular stop for tourists, especially those exploring the north of Iceland. While whale watching is the main draw, the town also offers unique Icelandic experiences like geothermal swimming pools, scenic hiking trails, local artisan shops and a must see is the Húsavík Whale museum.

Húsavík gained international attention in 2020 when it was featured in the Netflix comedy film Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga. The film, starring Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams, portrays the fictional band Fire Saga's journey in the Eurovision Song Contest, and many scenes are set in Húsavík, with the town’s harbor and colorful houses appearing prominently.

The film's song "Húsavík (My Hometown)" was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song, further cementing the town’s place in pop culture.

 

Scheduled flight

Norlandair has 4 scheduled flights per week between Reykjavík and Húsavík. For further information see our flight schedule.