Grímsey
Grímsey island is the northernmost inhabited island off Iceland with a population of around 80 people. The island gets its name from the settler Grímur, who settled the island. The island is about 65 kilometers north of Dalvik town by Eyjafjörður fjord.
Grímsey is Iceland’s northernmost inhabited island and the classic place to step across the Arctic Circle. It is remote, small, bird-rich and very different from the mainland highlights around Akureyri.
The island works best when you plan around ferry or flight logistics, weather, seabird season and the simple pleasure of walking a small community at the edge of the Arctic.
Quick guide to Grímsey
| Coordinates | 66.5433,-17.9961 |
| Location | North of mainland Iceland, reached by ferry from Dalvík or by flight from Akureyri when available |
| Best for | Arctic Circle experience, puffins, seabirds, remote island walks and North Iceland route variety |
| Nearby places | Dalvík, Akureyri, Hrísey and Eyjafjordur |
| Typical visit time | Full day or overnight depending on ferry and flight timing |
| Best season | Summer for puffins, birds and long daylight; winter visits are more weather-dependent |
| Good to know | Do not treat Grímsey as a quick side stop. Transport timing controls the day. |
What is Grímsey?
Grímsey is a small inhabited island north of mainland Iceland, famous because the Arctic Circle crosses the island. It has a fishing community, cliffs, seabirds, puffins in season and wide ocean views.
Why visit Grímsey?
Visit Grímsey for the combination of remoteness, Arctic Circle symbolism and birdlife. It is not about many attractions in a short loop; it is about the feeling of reaching Iceland’s northern edge.
How to visit Grímsey
Most travellers use Dalvík and the ferry, or Akureyri when flights are running. Build extra time into the plan and pair the wider trip with Dalvík whale watching or Akureyri-based tours.
Tours near Grímsey
Grímsey pairs best with tours that match the real access pattern: ferry routes, local island activities, nearby sea-life tours or wider regional day tours.
The easiest sea-life activity to pair with a Grímsey ferry plan from Dalvik.
A practical Akureyri-based option for travellers using the town as a North Iceland base.
A strong North Iceland route if Grímsey is part of a wider Akureyri stay.
A flexible land-based option around Akureyri when ferry or flight timing shapes the day.
Places near Grímsey
Use these nearby ideas to build Grímsey into a stronger route instead of treating it as a disconnected stop.
Towns and villages near Grímsey
These are the most practical bases and service stops for planning Grímsey.
Suggested itinerary ideas
Arctic Circle day
Travel from Dalvík, walk to the Arctic Circle marker area, explore the village and return if ferry timing allows.
Birdwatching focus
Visit in summer, move slowly around bird areas and avoid disturbing nesting birds. Keep the day lightly planned.
North Iceland base plan
Stay in Akureyri or Dalvík and add Akureyri whale watching or Mývatn on separate days.
FAQ about Grímsey
Is Grímsey worth visiting?
Yes, if the Arctic Circle, puffins, seabirds and remote island atmosphere are important to you. It is not the best choice for a rushed schedule.
How do you get to Grímsey?
Most visitors use the ferry from Dalvík. Flights from Akureyri may also operate, but schedules and weather matter.
What tours work well with Grímsey?
Grímsey is usually a transport-and-walk island day, but these tours fit the wider plan:
- Classic Whale Watching from Dalvík before or after the ferry day.
- Akureyri Classic Whale Watching if Akureyri is your base.
- Lake Mývatn Shore Excursion from Akureyri for a separate North Iceland day.
Can you cross the Arctic Circle in Grímsey?
Yes. Grímsey is known for the Arctic Circle experience, though the exact line shifts gradually over time.
When is the best time to see puffins in Grímsey?
Summer is the main puffin and seabird season. Always keep distance from nesting areas.
How long do you need in Grímsey?
Plan a full day or overnight depending on transport. Ferry timing usually defines the visit.
Where should you stay for Grímsey?
Use Dalvík for ferry convenience or Akureyri for more services and tour choice.
Can you combine Grímsey with Hrísey?
Yes over a multi-day North Iceland stay. Both pair well with Dalvík, Akureyri and Eyjafjordur, but ferry timing makes a one-day combination difficult.