Grímsey Island
Step across the Arctic Circle on Grímsey Island, a remote haven for puffins and tranquility.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Long daylight, puffins active
Grímsey Island
Best Time
Long daylight, puffins active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step across the Arctic Circle on Grímsey Island, a remote haven for puffins and tranquility.
"Grímsey Island is incredibly peaceful, best puffins I've ever seen, you get to cross the arctic circle, and there are no crowds."
🚢 Ferry Travel Tips
Book ferry tickets in advance. Consider anti-nausea meds for the ride; some find it rough. :pill:
🦙 Rent Bikes for Exploration
Rent bikes to cover more ground and see key spots like the Arctic Circle marker. :bike:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crossing the Arctic Circle
Orbis et Globus landmark
Stand on the line that divides the Arctic! A truly unique experience to mark your visit.
Puffin Paradise
Cliffside areas
Witness thousands of puffins and other seabirds nesting and fishing. A dream for birdwatchers!
Tranquil Village Life
Grímsey village
Experience the quiet charm of a remote Arctic community with friendly locals and Icelandic horses.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Arctic Circle Experience
Wildlife and Remote Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Ferry Travel Tips
Book ferry tickets in advance. Consider anti-nausea meds for the ride; some find it rough. :pill:
🦙 Rent Bikes for Exploration
Rent bikes to cover more ground and see key spots like the Arctic Circle marker. :bike:
🐦 Beware of Arctic Terns!
These birds can dive-bomb if you get too close to their nests. Keep a respectful distance. :warning:
📸 Get Your Certificate
Stop by the gift shop to get your official Grímsey Arctic Circle certificate! :certificate:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Ferry Travel Tips
Book ferry tickets in advance. Consider anti-nausea meds for the ride; some find it rough. :pill:
🦙 Rent Bikes for Exploration
Rent bikes to cover more ground and see key spots like the Arctic Circle marker. :bike:
🐦 Beware of Arctic Terns!
These birds can dive-bomb if you get too close to their nests. Keep a respectful distance. :warning:
📸 Get Your Certificate
Stop by the gift shop to get your official Grímsey Arctic Circle certificate! :certificate:
🧥 Pack for All Weather
Arctic weather is unpredictable. Bring layers, waterproofs, and sturdy walking shoes. :cloud:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Grímsey Island's unparalleled tranquility, abundant wildlife, and the unique experience of crossing the Arctic Circle. It's praised as an uncrowded, peaceful escape offering a genuine taste of Arctic life. Some note the long ferry rides and limited services as considerations.
"Love Grimsey Island! So peaceful and full of wildlife - puffins, arctic terns, whales, orcas. It's just the best and not crowded. Very relaxing. Oh, and the cod dogs! Yumm!"
Terri Sanne
"Took the Sæfari ferry from Dalvik to Grimsey Island and back which amounted to approximately 6 hours roundtrip. Some people experienced seasickness on the ferry to Grimsey but the ride back to Dalvik was very calm. For those who are easily nauseated, consider paying extra for one of the beds to lay down on to rest and/or take anti-nausea medication.
We sadly only had 2 hours to explore the island but we were able to visit some points of interest by renting bicycles from Arctic Bikes. In that time frame, we stopped at the original Arctic circle monument constructed by locals, watched puffins along the cliffside, reached the Orbis et Globus landmark, enjoyed a herd of Icelandic horses, experienced being dive-bombed by Arctic terns, & did some souvenir shopping. There were only a handful of people on the ferry departing Grimsey and we were fortunate enough to see a pod of dolphins on the way back to Dalvik. Must see if you have time to fit in this trip!"
d t
"My family has been to Iceland twice, and each time Grimsey has been our favorite place. It's incredibly peaceful, best puffins I've ever seen, you get to cross the arctic circle, and there are no crowds. It's a full day trip via round trip ferry from Dalvik, and there are limited services on the Island. If you are looking for a taste of the arctic in a peaceful village - this is it."
Mark Hill
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Grímsey Island via a ferry from Dalvík or by a small plane from Akureyri. The ferry ride is about 3 hours each way and offers scenic views, though it can be rough for those prone to seasickness. Flights are quicker but more expensive.
The island is small enough to explore on foot, especially if you rent a bicycle from Arctic Bikes. This allows you to cover more ground and reach various points of interest efficiently.
Yes, a day trip is possible, especially during summer when there are more ferry departures and longer daylight hours. However, many visitors recommend staying longer to fully appreciate the island's tranquility.
Ferry schedules vary by season. In winter, there might be fewer departures and shorter time on the island due to weather and daylight. Always check the latest schedule before planning your trip.
No, you cannot drive to Grímsey Island as it is a remote island. Access is exclusively by ferry or small aircraft.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your ferry or flight tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
There are no specific entrance fees to visit Grímsey Island itself. However, you will need to pay for transportation (ferry or flight) to get there.
Grímsey Island is accessible year-round, but visitor services and transportation schedules are seasonal. The Arctic Circle monument is always accessible.
The Orbis et Globus landmark marking the Arctic Circle is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for better visibility and safety.
Yes, you can obtain an official Grímsey Arctic Circle certificate from the local gift shop, a popular souvenir for visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key activities include crossing the Arctic Circle, birdwatching (especially puffins in summer), exploring the small village, and enjoying the peaceful Arctic landscape. +1
Puffins are most abundant on Grímsey Island during the summer months, typically from May to August, when they come ashore to nest. 
Grímsey Island is known for being uncrowded, offering a peaceful and serene experience, especially compared to more popular Icelandic attractions.
Besides puffins, you might spot Arctic terns, other seabirds, Icelandic horses, and potentially whales or orcas in the surrounding waters.
Connectivity can be limited on Grímsey Island due to its remote location. It's advisable to download offline maps and information beforehand.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Services are limited on Grímsey. There are a few places to eat, but options are scarce. It's wise to bring your own snacks and water, especially for day trips.
You might find local seafood dishes. Some visitors have raved about the 'cod dogs' available on the island.
There are limited options for purchasing food. It's best to confirm availability beforehand or pack your own provisions to ensure you have enough.
Given the limited services and remote location, prices for food might be higher than on the mainland. Packing your own snacks can be a budget-friendly option.
There are very limited services on the island, and it's unlikely to find a full-fledged grocery store. It's best to stock up on supplies before you depart for Grímsey.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the Arctic Circle monument, the dramatic cliffside bird colonies, the charming village, and the vast Arctic landscapes. The unique light conditions are also a photographer's dream.
Drone usage might be restricted due to wildlife and local regulations. Always check local rules and be mindful of the sensitive bird populations.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light, but due to the Arctic Circle location, daylight can be very long in summer, providing ample shooting time.
Focus on capturing the scale of the landscape, the intricate details of the puffins, and the unique experience of being at the Arctic Circle. Wide-angle lenses are great for landscapes.
Yes, puffins are a major attraction for photographers. Remember to maintain a respectful distance to avoid disturbing them.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider renting bicycles to explore the island at a child-friendly pace. The peaceful village and the chance to see Icelandic horses can also be engaging. Given the limited services, packing plenty of snacks and drinks is essential for keeping little ones happy. The ferry journey itself can be an adventure, but be prepared for potential seasickness with younger children.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
The opportunity to cross the Arctic Circle and witness abundant wildlife like puffins offers plenty of engaging activities. The small community might also provide opportunities for brief, friendly interactions. It's a place to disconnect and recharge, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
📸 Photographers
The puffins and seabird colonies are a major draw, offering incredible close-up and wide-angle shots. +1Experiment with different times of day to capture the ever-changing Arctic light. Be mindful of weather conditions, as they can dramatically impact your shots. While drone photography is possible, always prioritize wildlife welfare and check local regulations.
The simple, remote village also offers charming scenes of Arctic life. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Arctic Circle Experience
Visiting Grímsey offers a tangible connection to the Arctic. The experience is often described as surreal and awe-inspiring, providing a profound sense of place. While the Arctic Circle line itself shifts slightly over time, the monument serves as a constant reminder of this extraordinary location. Many visitors cherish the moment of crossing this line as a highlight of their Iceland trip.
Wildlife Encounters: Puffins and More
+2Beyond puffins, the island's cliffs teem with other species like Arctic terns, which are known for their aggressive defense of their nests – be prepared for potential dive-bombing if you venture too close! You might also spot guillemots, kittiwakes, and fulmars. The surrounding waters are sometimes visited by whales and orcas, adding another layer of wildlife excitement for lucky visitors.
It's crucial to observe wildlife from a respectful distance. While the birds are accustomed to human presence, maintaining space ensures their safety and allows for a more authentic viewing experience. Drone photography should be approached with extreme caution due to the sensitive bird populations.
Life on a Remote Arctic Island
+1 The island has very limited services, contributing to its tranquil and uncrowded atmosphere. There are no police officers on the island, relying on the community's inherent trust and cooperation. Life here is deeply connected to the natural environment and the seasons. The long hours of daylight in summer contrast sharply with the extended darkness of winter. This isolation and simplicity are what draw many to Grímsey, seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Some visitors even reflect on how the island's lifestyle could amplify happiness through its focus on fewer possessions and a more relaxed mindset.
For travelers, this means managing expectations regarding amenities. While there are places to eat and a gift shop, it's advisable to be self-sufficient with snacks and drinks. The experience of visiting Grímsey is less about tourist attractions and more about immersing yourself in a unique, peaceful Arctic environment and connecting with its hardy inhabitants.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit