Hang on a minute….
Did somebody say langoustine capital of the world?!
Yep, that would be Höfn, Iceland. A little fishing village in southeast Iceland that’s world-famous for its lobster dishes.
(The buttery, melt-in-your-mouth kind you’ll dream about long after your trip).
But Höfn isn’t just about good food.
It’s also one of the best bases for exploring glaciers, black sand beaches, and dramatic landscapes on the Ring Road.
And don’t let the population of just over 2000 fool you.
There is plenty to see and do in and around Höfn, with easy access to iconic spots like Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Stokksnes Beach.
It’s the perfect stop if you’re planning to explore the South Coast or Eastfjords.
This Höfn guide covers it all: where to stay, where to eat, things to do, the weather, and a festival worth timing your trip around.
Let’s get into it!
Table of Contents:
- Where is Höfn?
- Best Time of Year to Visit
- Things To Do in Höfn, Iceland + Nearby Attractions
- Höfn Tours + Activities
- Accommodation: Best Places to Stay in Höfn, Iceland
- Dining Options: Restaurants in Höfn
- Festival: Höfn, Iceland Lobster Festival
- An Iceland Itinerary Planned for You
Where is Höfn, Iceland?
Located in Southeast Iceland on the coast of Hornafjörður Fjord, Höfn sits near the edge of Vatnajökull National Park.
You can find it between the villages of Kirkjubæjarklaustur and Egilsstadir.
Pro tip: Don’t be fooled by how it’s spelled, it’s actually pronounced “HUP” (yes, really!).
Want to nail the pronunciation of Icelandic towns and landmarks? Check out this handy video for a few tips.👇
Distance from Reykjavík to Höfn
At 285 miles (458 km) from Reykjavík, you can either drive or take a quick flight. Flying takes about an hour, landing at Hornafjörður Airport just 5 km north of Höfn.
It’ll take you around six hours to drive from Reykjavík to Höfn, but if you’re planning a road trip in Iceland, it takes careful planning, like knowing exactly where the gas stations are.
That’s where my 👉 Iceland Maps + Guidebooks come in.
Every gas station is conveniently pinned on a Google map, so you’ll know when to fuel up or grab snacks.
Plus, the guides highlight all the must-see spots and hidden gems you won’t want to miss!
Best Time of Year to Visit
Höfn, Iceland is accessible year-round, and each season has its perks.
If you’re visiting in the winter, the days are shorter, but you’ll have the benefit of fewer crowds.
What’s great is that most of the major attractions are still accessible, and you’ll be able to explore the natural ice caves, which are generally only accessible from November to March.
Summer lets you explore to your heart’s content with nearly 24 hours of daylight, so you can pack in as much (or as little) as you like without ever feeling rushed.
And if you love sampling local dishes, don’t miss the lobster festival, usually held in July, it’s an experience you won’t want to skip.
Either way, it’s a great stop no matter what time of year you plan on visiting Iceland!
Höfn, Iceland Weather
July is the hottest month, with highs around 55°F (13°C) and lows around 47°F (8°C).
Of course, it wouldn’t be Iceland without a bit of rain!
You’ll find showers all year, but October usually wins for the rainiest month.
The coldest month in Höfn is January, with daytime highs around 37°F (3°C) and nights that can slip just below freezing at 30°F (-1°C).
Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable. You might wake up to sunshine, get caught in a rain shower by lunch, and see snowflakes before dinner. It makes packing… tricky, to say the least!
In my 👉 Ultimate Packing Guide, I’ve included weather averages and a layering cheat sheet so you know EXACTLY what to wear, letting you enjoy the sights without worrying about getting cold or wet.
I’ve also included suggested items I personally recommend, complete with handy checklists of what you’ll need.
Download the FREE PDF below. 👇
Things to Do in Höfn, Iceland + Nearby Attractions
Okay, let’s get to the good stuff!
There are so many cool things to see and do around Höfn, Iceland. Grab your pen, your bucket list is about to get longer!
Skaftafell National Park
This national park is the perfect place for adventure and the beautiful nature that Iceland is known for.
From waterfalls, glaciers and enjoying the wildlife, Skaftafell is a must-see and such an easy addition to your itinerary if you’re staying in Höfn.
It’s especially popular with hiking enthusiasts!
The most famous trail here leads to Svartifoss waterfall (which also happens to be in my top 10 favorite waterfalls in Iceland).
With so many stunning waterfalls around the country, it can be tough to choose which ones to see, but this might help you out. 👇
➡️ READ: Chasing Waterfalls in Iceland: Discover The Top 10 Breathtaking Waterfalls In Iceland
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
This is honestly one of my favorite spots in all of Iceland, and it’s just about an hour from Höfn!
You’ll get to see how floating icebergs that dot the lagoon float by in different shades of blue and white. And let me tell you…it is STUNNING! 😍
Once you’ve taken all the pictures you want and soaked in the scenery, don’t miss Diamond Beach.
It’s just across the street, and you’ll see how chunks of ice wash up on the black sand beach, and I kid you not, they look just like diamonds in the sun!
➡️ READ: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Explore this Breathtaking Gem in South Iceland
Hoffell Hot Tubs
Just 6 miles (10 km) north of Höfn, you’ll find these tucked-away hot tubs with front-row seats to glaciers and mountains.
Sounds dreamy, right?
There are five man-made tubs, perfect for soaking those tired legs after a day of exploring.
Pro tip: Even though it’s open to the public, these hot tubs are on privately owned land. So don’t expect fancy robes and spa music. It’s all about the rustic charm and great views!
Höfn Swimming Pool
Located just a short distance from the campsite in Höfn, this pool is great for the whole family.
Think of it more as a waterpark as opposed to your average ‘pool.’
We’re talking about an 82-foot swimming pool, hot tubs, a sauna, and even slides for the kids (or you… no judgement! 😉).
I love that it’s open year-round, making it a perfect stop if you’re exploring Iceland with kids.
And the coolest part? You don’t have to struggle to find these places.
My 👉 Iceland Guidebooks + Maps pin hot springs, pools, and all the must-see spots across the country. So you can plan your stops in advance, skip the guesswork, and make the most of your Iceland trip.
Svavar Guðnason Art Museum
For all the art lovers out there, this vibrant little museum in Höfn, Iceland showcases Icelandic art in its exhibitions.
It was founded to honor Icelandic painter Svavar Guðnason.
The museum is open throughout the year and admission is free, so it is an excellent choice for a budget-friendly outing!
Check out this post for more museums in Iceland.👇
➡️ READ: The 16 Best Museums in Iceland You Need to Experience on Your Trip!
Stokksnes Beach + Vestrahorn Mountain
You guys! 🙌
This black sand beach is one of my favorite gems in Iceland. It’s a little bit of a detour from the main road, but it’s so worth it!
As for beautiful settings?
Check, check, and check. ☺️
Vestrahorn mountain towers in the background with little grassy hills along the side, and it’s breathtaking.
The view here is everything, so make sure to go on a clear day.
The Viking Cafe Höfn: Before heading out to explore, make a stop at the Viking Café. It’s the perfect spot to grab a hot drink or light snack before or after your visit. It’s also where you’ll pay for parking, which gives you access to both Stokksnes beach and the nearby Viking Village.
The Viking Village Museum: Once you’ve soaked in the views at the beach, you can walk down to the remains of an old Viking movie set.
Want to add more beaches to your Iceland itinerary? Check out my top picks here.👇
➡️ READ: Beaches in Iceland: 11 Stunning Beaches You Need to Visit on Your Trip
Skútafoss Waterfall
Only a 20-minute drive east of Höfn, Iceland, Skútafoss is marked as one of Jeannie’s gems (ahem… that’s me! 😉)
It’s a short hike to get there, but the waterfall is tucked away enough that you could miss it if you’re not paying attention.
No wonder it’s often nicknamed the “hidden waterfall.”
Once you arrive, you’ll spot a cave to the side of it.
I’m never disappointed by a waterfall, and honestly, if there’s a chance to visit one, I’m there like a seagull on a French fry!
Hvalnes Lighthouse
Between Höfn and Djúpivogur, you’ll come across a bright orange colored lighthouse.
Perched up on a cliff, it’s a great place to take photographs, and you’ll also get beautiful views of the surroundings.
This is also a popular area for birdwatching and hiking. If you’re a sucker for a good lighthouse like I am, I definitely recommend adding this one to your itinerary!
Höfn Tours + Activities
This unassuming little town is also the gateway to some seriously unforgettable adventures. Take a look.👇
Ice Cave + Höfn Glacier Tour
If exploring an ice cave and hiking on a glacier are on your Iceland bucket list, you’re in luck because Höfn is the perfect base to do that.
From here, you can join a small-group tour that takes you onto Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, and into a dazzling ice cave where shades of blue ice surround you.
I’ve done a glacier hike and ice cave tour myself, and words don’t do justice to how incredible it is!
Get tour details here.👇
➡️ TAKE A TOUR: Into the Glacier – Glacier Hike & Ice Cave from Skaftafell
If you’re curious about what it’s like to go on an ice cave tour, I’ll take you behind the scenes.👇
Kayaking
Get the chance to paddle through the glacier lagoon and get up close to floating icebergs.
You might even spot local wildlife and birds along the way.
➡️ TAKE A TOUR: Kayaking at The Glacier Lagoon
Snowmobiling on Vatnajökull Glacier
Riding a snowmobile on a glacier has to be one of the most exciting experiences out there!
Don’t worry if you’ve never ridden one before, your tour guides will walk you through everything you need to know and share fun stories about the area and glacier.
You’ll also have the opportunity to stop and take some photos along the way.
➡️ TAKE A TOUR: Snowmobile tour on Vatnajökull Glacier
Accommodation: Best Places to Stay in Höfn, Iceland
This is a common place to spend the night after exploring the second half of the South Coast.
The best options are to stay in towns along the main route. Höfn is the easiest place to stay after Jökulsárlon, with the next populated village being Djúpivogur.
Milk Factory Höfn: This cozy B&B is set in a converted milk factory with glacier views and simple, comfy rooms just 4km from the center of Höfn. They even offer free bikes to pedal around the area!
Make a booking 👉 Milk Factory
Dilksnes Guesthouse: With its convenient location just off the Ring Road, and under 3 miles from the local airport, this is particularly popular with solo travelers. If you’re staying in the main building, you’ll have access to a communal kitchen. It’s perfect if you want to whip up your own meals.
Make a booking 👉 Dilksnes Guesthouse
Hotel Höfn: If you want to stay right in Höfn, this hotel is a great pick. The rooms are modern, and some even come with glacier or sea views. The restaurant is known for serving up the town’s famous lobster. On a sunny day, you can grab a table out on the terrace or just wander down to the harbor and golf club.
Make a booking 👉 Hotel Höfn
Höfn Camping: If you want to experience Icelandic nature at its best, a good way to do that is through camping.
However, if you want the benefits of camping but can’t quite give up all the creature comforts, why not try renting a camper van during your stay at Höfn campground?
You’ll get your vehicle, accommodation, built-in kitchen, and internet access when you book with Happy Campers.
Plus, as a family-run company, they go above and beyond with their service. I’ve loved every trip I’ve taken with them.
💥Get a 10% discount with Happy Campers when you use my special code 👉 IWV10.
Dining Options: Restaurants in Höfn
With Höfn, Iceland being such a popular stop on the Ring Road, you will find a number of dining options to satisfy your cravings!
Pakkhús Restaurant: In the early years, Pakkhús was only open in the summer months, but with the rise in tourism, it’s now open all year round. You’ll get harbour views while you enjoy yummy langoustine dishes. They focus on gourmet food made with fresh, local ingredients.
Íshúsið Pizzeria (Ishusid): If thin-based, stone-baked pizzas with a variety of delicious toppings is exactly what you need after exploring, don’t skip Íshúsið Pizzeria!
Otto Matur & Drykkur: With its homey vibe and excellent cuisine, what’s not to love? A word of warning, though: they only serve dinner and don’t accept reservations, so it’s common to wait a bit for a table. But believe you me, the wait will be worth it! Try the Lobster Soup with Cream and Cognac, it’s so good!
Festival: Höfn, Iceland Lobster Festival
As the proud langoustine capital of the world, you can be sure that Höfn hosts a festival to celebrate it!
The festival is called Humarhátíð, and there’s live music, insanely fresh seafood, and a fun, lively vibe.
Attending local festivals is also a great way to mingle with the locals.
An Iceland Itinerary Planned for You
Höfn, Iceland, is the perfect place to stay because of how close it is to some of Iceland’s major sites.
Its charming harbor, incredible local cuisine, and easy access to glaciers and black sand beaches make it an ideal base for exploring the area.
But can we talk about Iceland planning paralysis for a second?
The Ring Road, the Golden Circle, the Highlands… there are literally hundreds of “must-see” spots, and everyone has different opinions about which ones to prioritize.
Don’t you just wish that someone could plan it all out for you, tell you where to go, how long you should spend at each site, and even estimate driving times?
Well, I’ve spent years optimizing my 👉 Iceland Itineraries so that you hit all the most important spots, including the hidden gems, without feeling burnt out.
Get detailed daily schedules, tour suggestions, and recommendations on where to stay and dine.
All locations are pinned on a digital map to make planning as easy as possible!
I’ve also created winter itineraries, so you know the places you’re visiting are actually accessible that time of year. Like these 👉 Winter Itineraries.
With the right itinerary, you can enjoy every moment without feeling rushed.
Happy Planning!
