Nestled along Iceland’s scenic east coast, Djúpivogur is a charming village with a population of around 500 inhabitants and a history that dates back to the 16th century.
This quaint port town provides an authentic Icelandic experience, away from the hustle and bustle of larger, more touristy locations such as Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital.
Djupivogur is one of the oldest trading ports in Iceland and is known for its picturesque landscapes, featuring stunning fjords, mountains, and coastal views. This port is an ideal starting point for exploring the natural wonders of the Eastfjords region.
In this Djupivogur Iceland cruise port guide, I give you an overview of the Djupivogur cruise terminal and the 9 best things to do in Djupivogur.
Visit also our cruise port guides to Reykjavik, Akureyri, Isafjordur, Seydisfjordur, Amsterdam, Lerwick (Shetland Islands), Edinburgh, Invergordon (Inverness)
Djupivogur Iceland Cruise Port
Small cruise ships may dock at Gleðivík pier, located a 10-minute walk from the town center. Large cruise vessels anchor in the fjord and use tender boats to transfer passengers ashore to a tender dock located 200-300 m away from the town center.
Tourist information and parking for buses and taxis are available on the pier. Langabúð cafe, the oldest building in Djupivogur dating back to 1790, is located next to the tender dock. It is a restaurant and a cultural center housing museums and exhibitions, including the heritage museum.
Nearby, you’ll also find a few cafes and souvenir shops where you can purchase local handicrafts and unique gifts. These include Bakkabúð and JFS Handcraft and Design.
9 Best Things To Do In Djupivogur Cruise Port
Djupivogur may be a small village, but it boasts several attractions and landmarks that highlight its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Here are some must-see spots for cruisers visiting Djupivogur:
1. Eggin í Gleðivík (The Eggs of Merry Bay)
Eggin í Gleðivík (The Eggs of Merry Bay) is an outdoor art installation located at Gleðivík harbour within a 10-minute walk from the tender dock.
Created by the famous Icelandic artist Sigurður Guðmundsson, this unique exhibit features 34 large granite eggs, each meticulously crafted to represent a different bird species found in the area.
The eggs are different in shape, nuance, and color, which represent the region’s diverse bird life population. And if you’re visiting during the summer months, from June to August, you might even catch a glimpse of some of these migratory birds in action.
2. Langabúð Heritage Museum
Housed in Djupivogur’s oldest building dating back to 1790, Langabúð Heritage Museum serves as a cultural center where you can learn about the village’s rich past and cultural heritage.
The museum features a collection of artifacts, historical exhibits, and art displays that tell the story of Djupivogur and its inhabitants through the centuries. Visitors can explore exhibits on traditional fishing, local craftsmanship, and the daily lives of the town’s early residents.
Langabúð also hosts various art exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year, such as the exhibition about the life and work of the Icelandic sculptor and artist Rikardur Jonsson, a must-see when visiting the museum.
Inside the building, you can also savor local dishes and try local beers and spirits in the family-owned Langabúð cafe.
3. JFS Handicrafts
Located only 500 m from the tender dock, JFS Handcraft is a delightful local workshop and store that showcases the rich traditions of Icelandic craftsmanship.
This charming shop specializes in handmade items crafted from local materials such as wool, reindeer horn, and driftwood. You can find an array of unique products, including beautifully knitted garments, intricate jewelry, and distinctive home décor pieces.
But what truly sets JFS Handcraft apart is the passion and dedication of its owner, Jon, a retired fisherman with a lifelong love for rocks and gems.
With a collection spanning 46 years, Jon’s enthusiasm for his craft is infectious, and he’ll gladly tell you stories of his adventures and discoveries as you browse his carefully curated selection of treasures.
4. Auðunn’s Stone & Mineral collection
Another place where you can learn about the geological diversity of Iceland is the Auðunn’s Stone & Mineral Collection, located within less than a 5-minute walk from the pier.
Curated by local collector Auðunn Kristinsson, this impressive stone museum features a wide variety of stones and minerals, each with unique shapes, colors, and textures.
You can marvel at stunning specimens of quartz, jasper, and agate, and learn about the formation and significance of these natural treasures.
5. Nykurhylsfoss (Sveinsstekksfoss)
Nykurhylsfoss, also known as Sveinsstekksfoss, is a breathtaking waterfall nestled 16 km (a 15-minute drive) northwest of the port of Djupivogur.
Surrounded by lush greenery and rugged terrain, this hidden gem cascades over a series of rock formations into a serene pool below and is perfect for those seeking unspoiled Icelandic nature!
6. Vök Baths
Located near Egilsstaðir, about a 1 hour 30 minutes’ drive from Djupivogur cruise port, Vök Baths are geothermal pools designed to float in the serene waters of Lake Urriðavatn, providing a relaxing and scenic environment for visitors.
The naturally warm waters, heated by Iceland’s geothermal energy, offer a soothing retreat surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Vök Baths also features an on-site café serving delicious local fare, and a cold water tunnel for those seeking a refreshing contrast to the warm baths.
Explore Vök Baths tours and activities
7. Vatnajökull National Park
Home to Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull, Vatnajökull National Park offers a dramatic landscape of ice-capped peaks, vast glaciers, glacial lagoons, and powerful waterfalls.
If you are into adrenaline and adventure, you can embark on thrilling glacier hikes, explore ice caves, or take boat tours on the stunning Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs drift in the blue waters.
The park’s diverse terrain also includes volcanic landscapes, lush valleys, and geothermal areas, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Vatnajökull National Park is best visited on a guided tour, as it involves a bit of a drive from Djupivogur.
Explore Vatnajökull National Park tours and activities
8. Papey Island
Papey Island, situated just off the coast of Djupivogur, is the perfect place to explore Iceland’s pristine natural environment and rich wildlife.
This small island is renowned for its vibrant birdlife, including puffins, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The island is also home to Iceland’s oldest wooden church.
You can easily explore Papey Island on foot, and to get there, you can book a boat trip departing from the port.
On your way to the island, keep an eye on seals lounging on the rocky shores – a perfect photo op to capture these wonderful creatures in their natural habitat!
9. Hike Búlandstindur
Búlandstindur is a majestic pyramid-shaped mountain near Djupivogur, rising to an impressive height of 1,069 meters (3,507 feet). Renowned for its striking symmetry and imposing presence, Búlandstindur is steeped in local folklore and is believed to possess mystical powers.
The mountain is a popular destination for hikers, offering challenging yet rewarding trails that lead to its summit, where climbers are greeted with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding fjords and landscapes.
The ascent to Búlandstindur showcases Iceland’s rugged beauty, with lush valleys, cascading streams, and diverse flora and fauna along the way.
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