A Fjord Shaped by Nature and Culture

Seyðisfjörður lies at the end of a winding mountain road that drops dramatically from the highlands down into the fjord. As you descend, the town gradually unfolds below you: blue lake, cascading waterfalls, and a scattering of brightly painted houses hugging the shoreline.

The settlement grew around fishing, trade, and later the arrival of Norwegian merchants. This influence can still be seen in the architecture — delicate timber houses and old merchant buildings that give Seyðisfjörður a charm unlike any other Icelandic town.

Today, it is known equally for its history and its modern creative pulse.

The Famous Blue Church & Rainbow Street

Perhaps the most photographed spot in town is the Blue Church (Bláa Kirkjan), standing at the end of Regnbogagatan, the rainbow-painted street created as part of a Pride celebration.

The combination of the baby-blue church, rainbow walkway, and mountains rising behind is nothing short of iconic — and a symbol of the town’s inclusive, artistic spirit.

A Town Powered by Creativity

Seyðisfjörður has long attracted artists, musicians, and creators from Iceland and abroad. The town hosts:

• Skaftfell – Center for Visual Art, a contemporary art hub
• Residency programs that bring international artists to the fjord
• Music and cultural festivals
• Unique local craft shops and galleries

Art is woven into daily life here, from murals on buildings to small creative spaces tucked into side streets.

Nature at Your Doorstep

Seyðisfjörður offers an impressive range of outdoor adventures:

Waterfalls Everywhere

Dozens of waterfalls cascade from the cliffs above the town — especially during spring snowmelt. Trails along Búðará and the Fjallkonustígur route offer one breathtaking lookout after another.

Hiking for All Levels

• Vestdalsvatn — a peaceful mountain lake
• Búðareyrarhringur — an easy scenic walk
• Seven Peaks — a challenge for seasoned hikers wanting panoramic fjord views

Kayaking & Fjord Exploration

With calm water and towering mountains on both sides, the fjord is perfect for kayaking or gentle boat tours to see seals, birds, and the dramatic coastal scenery.

What To See and Do Near Seyðisfjörður

Beyond the town itself, the surrounding area offers unique artistic sites, natural wonders, and cultural attractions.

Tvísöngur – A Sound Sculpture in the Mountains

One of Seyðisfjörður’s most distinctive attractions, Tvísöngur, is a cluster of concrete domes placed on a hillside just above town.

Created by artist Lukas Kühne, the installation is inspired by traditional Icelandic two-part harmony — tvísöngur. Each dome resonates at a musical tone, and when you stand inside them, even a soft voice turns into an otherworldly soundscape.

The short hike up offers:

• Beautiful views over the fjord
• An unusual mix of art and acoustics
• A peaceful place to sit and listen as the wind becomes part of the music

It’s a simple yet magical experience—and completely free.

Nearby Day Trips

Seyðisfjörður makes an excellent base for exploring:

• Egilsstaðir — the region’s central service hub
• Hengifoss — one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls
• Hallormsstaðaskógur — Iceland’s largest forest
• Lagarfljót — the home of the famous lake monster
• Borgarfjörður Eystri — puffins, elves, and dramatic rhyolite mountains

Why You Should Visit Seyðisfjörður

Whether you come for adventure, calm, photography, or inspiration, Seyðisfjörður rewards every traveler who gives it time.