Quick Answer
The best way to get from Akureyri Airport to Húsavík is by combining a short taxi/shuttle to Akureyri town and then taking the public bus. There is no direct transport. The journey takes a minimum of 2 to 2.5 hours and costs from ~6,680 ISK (€45) per person. For flexibility and speed, renting a car at the airport is the top recommendation, taking about 1 hour 20 minutes to drive.
Taxi & Private Transfer from Akureyri Airport
For direct, door-to-door service, a taxi or pre-booked private transfer is the most convenient but also the most expensive option from Akureyri Airport (AEY) to Húsavík.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Journey Time | 1 hour 15 min - 1 hour 30 min |
| Distance | ~90 km (56 miles) |
| Average Cost (Direct) | 35,000 - 45,000 ISK (€230 - €300) |
| Cost to Akureyri Centre | ~2,000 - 4,000 ISK (for bus connection) |
| Availability | On-demand at airport; pre-booking recommended for long trips. |
| Best For | Groups of 3-4, travelers with heavy luggage, late-night arrivals, those seeking maximum convenience. |
Key Considerations:
- Price is not metered for long trips: Always agree on a fixed price with the driver before departing the airport. The fare is for the vehicle, not per person.
- Pre-booking is safer: Companies like Húsavík Adventures or Blue Car Rental's transfer service offer fixed rates and guaranteed availability.
- Two-Step Taxi Strategy: To save money, take a short taxi to the Akureyri Bus Terminal (BSÍ) (~10 min, ~2,000-3,000 ISK) and then continue by bus to Húsavík. This hybrid approach balances cost and convenience.
Public Bus (Strætó) from Akureyri to Húsavík
This is the most economical and environmentally friendly public transport option. The journey requires a connection in Akureyri town.
Step-by-Step Bus Guide
- Step 1: Airport to Akureyri Bus Terminal (BSÍ).
- Option A: Flybus Akureyri. A scheduled shuttle matching flight arrivals. Costs ~2,000 ISK. Check Flybus.is for schedule.
- Option B: Taxi. ~10-minute ride, ~2,000-3,000 ISK.
- Step 2: Akureyri BSÍ to Húsavík.
- Bus: Strætó Route 57 (Akureyri - Húsavík - Ásbyrgi).
- Journey Time: ~1 hour 45 minutes.
- Frequency: 2-3 times daily. Much reduced on weekends and off-season (Oct-Apr).
- Price (2024): Approximately 4,680 ISK per adult one-way. Check current fares on Strætó's official website.
- Tickets: Purchase via the Strætó app, online, or from the driver (card only, no cash).
Detailed Bus Analysis
- Schedule Reliability: Buses in Iceland are generally punctual. Always confirm the latest timetable on the Strætó timetable page, as services are infrequent and winter schedules differ significantly.
- Luggage: Standard luggage allowance applies. Large backpacks and suitcases can be stored in the bus's luggage compartment.
- Scenic Value: The bus ride offers excellent views of the fjord and coastal landscape, similar to driving yourself.
- Major Drawback: The lack of a direct airport bus and infrequent service means poor connectivity for many flight arrivals. A long layover in Akureyri may be required.
Renting a Car & Driving from Akureyri Airport
Renting a car is the most recommended option for travelers who value flexibility, time efficiency, and the freedom to explore North Iceland.
| Factor | Details & Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Drive Time & Route | 1h 15m - 1h 30m. Take Route 83/1 (Ring Road) east, then merge onto Route 85 north to Húsavík. Well-paved roads. |
| Rental Cost (Daily) | From 8,000 - 15,000 ISK/day for a small car in summer. Premiums for 4x4, automatic transmission, and one-way fees (if not returning to AEY). |
| Fuel Cost (One Way) | ~1,500 - 2,500 ISK for ~90km, depending on car type. |
| Rental Companies at AEY | Blue Car Rental, Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Budget. Booking months in advance is crucial for summer. |
| 4x4 Necessity (Summer) | Not required for the main Route 1/85. Highly recommended for winter (Nov-Mar) or if planning to enter highland F-roads. |
| Parking in Húsavík | Easy and generally free in town and at most guesthouses/hotels. |
Comprehensive Driving Guide
- Road Conditions: Check Road.is and Safetravel.is for real-time updates, especially in winter. Route 85 can be exposed to wind and occasional fog.
- Insurance: Always get Gravel Protection (GP/CDW). Ash, sand, and gravel chips are common risks on Icelandic roads. Consider Sand and Ash Protection (SAAP) for windy areas.
- Scenic Stops En Route: The drive itself is an attraction. Consider stops at:
- Goðafoss Waterfall: A slight detour (~15km from Route 1), one of Iceland's most spectacular waterfalls.
- Lake Mývatn: About 30 minutes east of the Route 1/85 junction, a geothermal wonderland (requires a half-day or more).
- One-Way Rental Consideration: If you are continuing a ring road trip, verify if your rental company allows a one-way drop-off in Húsavík (often not possible with small local offices) or if you must return to Akureyri.
Flying from Akureyri to Húsavík? (Spoiler: Not Practical)
While both towns have airports, a commercial flight connection is not a viable option for this journey. Here’s a detailed breakdown of why:
- No Direct Commercial Flights: There are no scheduled passenger flights between Akureyri Airport (AEY) and Húsavík Airport (HZK). HZK primarily services charter flights for whale watching tours and general aviation.
- Theoretical & Impractical Routing: The only conceivable air route involves:
- Flying from Akureyri (AEY) back to Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV) (approx. 45 min flight).
- Transferring in Reykjavik (requiring a taxi/bus between RKV and Keflavik KEF if international).
- Finding a connecting flight or tour to Húsavík, which is extremely rare.
- Conclusion: Do not consider flying. All flight search results for this route are either error codes or suggest the illogical back-to-Reykjavik option. Ground transport is the only sensible choice.
Ticket & Cost Comparison: Akureyri Airport to Húsavík
This table summarizes all key data to help you decide the best transport mode for your budget and needs.
| Transport Method | Total Travel Time* | Estimated Cost (One Way) | Convenience / Flexibility | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rental Car (Recommended) | ~1h 20m drive | 8,000 - 20,000 ISK + fuel (€55 - €140+) |
Very High (Door-to-door, explore at will) | Families, groups, explorers, photographers, time-efficient travelers. |
| Taxi + Strætó Bus (Cheapest Public) | ~2h - 3.5h (incl. wait) | ~6,680 ISK (€45) | Low (Fixed schedule, requires transfer) | Solo travelers, backpackers, those on a strict budget without a car. |
| Direct Taxi / Private Transfer | ~1h 20m | 35,000 - 45,000+ ISK (€230 - €300+) | Very High (Direct, no hassle) | Small groups splitting cost, late arrivals, luxury/convenience seekers. |
| Pre-booked Private Minibus | ~1h 20m | 40,000 - 60,000 ISK for group (€265 - €400) |
High (Door-to-door, fixed price) | Groups of 6+, organized tours. |
*Time from exiting Akureyri Airport to reaching Húsavík town centre. Bus time includes estimated transfer/wait time in Akureyri.
Verdict: For most travelers, renting a car provides the best value when considering time, cost-per-person (if 2+), and the unparalleled freedom it grants in North Iceland.
Traveler Experience & Insider Tips
Practical Advice for a Smooth Journey
- Book Everything in Advance: This is non-negotiable for summer (June-Aug). Rental cars, popular transfers, and accommodation sell out months ahead.
- Bus Schedule is King: If using the bus, plan your entire day around the Strætó 57 timetable. A missed bus could mean a 5+ hour wait or being stranded overnight in Akureyri.
- Weather is a Factor: North Iceland weather can change rapidly. Strong winds can affect driving (especially for campervans) and occasionally cause road closures on Route 85. Always have a buffer day in your itinerary.
- Connectivity for Navigation: Mobile data coverage is generally good on this route. However, download offline Google Maps or use the official Road.is app as a backup.
- Whale Watching Integration: Húsavík is the "Whale Watching Capital of Iceland." If you have a tight schedule, consider booking your whale watching tour for the day after your arrival, as the journey from Akureyri can be tiring.
- Groceries & Supplies: Stock up on groceries or snacks in Akureyri (Bónus, Krónan supermarkets) before heading to Húsavík, as options are more limited and slightly more expensive in the smaller town.
FAQs: Getting from Akureyri Airport to Húsavík
Is there a direct bus from Akureyri Airport to Húsavík?
No, there is no direct bus. You must first transfer to the Akureyri bus terminal (BSÍ) via taxi or airport shuttle, then take the Strætó bus 57 to Húsavík.
What is the cheapest way to get from Akureyri Airport to Húsavík?
The cheapest way is the combined taxi/shuttle + Strætó bus 57, costing around 6,680 ISK total per person. For two or more people, sharing a rental car often becomes cheaper per person and offers far greater value.
How long is the drive from Akureyri Airport to Húsavík?
The drive is approximately 90 km and takes about 1 hour and 15 to 30 minutes under normal summer conditions via Routes 1 and 85.
Are taxis available at Akureyri Airport for a trip to Húsavík?
Yes, but a direct taxi is extremely expensive (35,000-45,000 ISK). It's only cost-effective for groups or those with special needs. Pre-booking a transfer is recommended.
Can I fly from Akureyri to Húsavík?
No, there are no practical scheduled flights. The only air option is inefficient and costly, requiring a flight back to Reykjavik first. Ground transport is the only realistic choice.
Is it easy to rent a car at Akureyri Airport?
Yes, several major companies have desks at AEY. However, you must book months in advance, especially for summer travel, to secure availability and reasonable prices.
What should I do if my flight arrives late at night?
Your only reliable options are a pre-booked (and expensive) private transfer or renting a car if the rental desk is still open. Otherwise, plan to stay overnight in Akureyri and travel to Húsavík the next morning.
Is the journey from Akureyri to Húsavík scenic?
Absolutely. Whether by car or bus, the route offers stunning views of Eyjafjörður fjord, the Skjálfandi Bay coastline, and mountainous landscapes, making the journey part of the adventure.