Egilsstaðir
Egilsstaðir, the largest town in East Iceland, sits beside the Lagarfljót river and serves as a gateway to rugged fjords, forests and highland routes.
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About Eastern
Egilsstaðir is the largest town in East Iceland and the main service, administrative and transport hub of the Eastern Region. Built along the eastern shore of the long, glacial-fed Lagarfljót river, it sits near the Ring Road and serves as a natural gateway to the Eastfjords, highlands and inland valleys.
The town is young and planned, established in 1947, and has grown into the region's centre for healthcare, education, culture and commerce. Landmarks include the distinctive modern Egilsstaðakirkja church, Tjarnargarður park and the East Iceland Heritage Museum, which presents the area's reindeer herding, farming and settlement history.
Around Egilsstaðir, nature is the main draw. Visitors explore Lake Lagarfljót and its legendary worm, walk through Hallormsstaðarskógur, Iceland's largest forest, hike to Fardagafoss waterfall or visit the dramatic basalt canyon at Stuðlagil. The geothermal Vök Baths float on Lake Urriðavatn and offer warm pools with views of the surrounding landscape.
As a regional gateway, Egilsstaðir links the coast with inland East Iceland. Seyðisfjörður's international ferry terminal, Borgarfjörður Eystri's puffin cliffs and the reindeer-rich highlands are all reachable from town, making it a practical base for day trips and multi-day exploration.
For both leisure and business travellers, Egilsstaðir combines essential services with direct access to East Iceland's fjords, trails and wildlife. Its compact centre, regional airport and location on the Ring Road make it a convenient stopping point and a gateway to one of Iceland's least crowded regions.
Eastern Travel Guide
Best Time to Visit
Summer, from June to August, brings long daylight hours and the best access to highland roads and hiking trails around Egilsstaðir. Autumn is quieter with vivid colours, while winter offers northern lights and a peaceful atmosphere.
How to Get Around
The town centre is compact and easy to explore on foot. For the Eastfjords, Stuðlagil, Borgarfjörður Eystri and other outlying sights, a rental car is the most practical option; taxis, private drivers and limited regional bus services are also available.
Where to Stay
Central Egilsstaðir has the widest choice of hotels and guesthouses within walking distance of shops and restaurants. Nearby lakeside and countryside stays, including around Lagarfljót and Fellabær, offer quieter surroundings and easy access to Vök Baths and forest trails.
Food & Drink
Local restaurants serve Icelandic lamb, fresh seafood from the Eastfjords and wild reindeer, alongside cafés and bakeries in the town centre. Vök Baths has its own bistro, and nearby Seyðisfjörður and Reyðarfjörður add more dining options with local produce.
Ground Transportation Services in Eastern
Airport Transfers
Travel between Egilsstaðir Airport and hotels, guesthouses, the town centre and other destinations across East Iceland.
Hourly Chauffeur
Book a private chauffeur by the hour for business meetings, flexible sightseeing and day trips to Stuðlagil, Borgarfjörður Eystri and nearby attractions.
Car Rental
Rent a car in Egilsstaðir for independent travel along the Ring Road, through the Eastfjords and to remote natural sights across the region.
Bus & Group Transfers
Arrange minibuses or charter buses for groups, corporate travel, events, airport transfers and guided tours in Egilsstaðir and East Iceland.
Airports in Eastern
Frequently Asked Questions
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