Tucked away on the east coast of Iceland, Djúpivogur is a small harbor town with a big personality. With fewer than 550 residents, it offers something rare in modern travel itineraries: time to slow down, connect with nature, and enjoy life at a gentler pace. As a proud member of the Cittaslow movement , Djúpivogur is perfect for travelers looking to trade checklists and lots of driving for meaningful experiences.
Plan a weekend in the town and this guide will help you make the most of your time.
Day 1: Arrival and Slowing Down
Arrive in Djúpivogur on Friday evening after a scenic drive through the east fjords or the south coast. The roads themselves set the tone for a calm and beautiful weekend. Winding past dramatic mountains and quiet coves until you reach the colorful houses and working harbor of town.
Where to stay:
Hótel Framtíð is the go-to option, offering cosy rooms, hearty meals with local food, and a front-row seat to harbor life in the heart of the town. Evening activity: Stretch your legs with a walk along the waterfront. The harbor at dusk is peaceful, and the views across the fjord are a perfect welcome.
Day 2: Art, Nature, and Local Culture
Morning: Coffee at Langabúð
Start your Saturday at Langabúð Café, located in the oldest building in Djúpivogur. It’s part café, part cultural center, and a great place to get a feel for the town. Pair your coffee with a slice of homemade cake like the happy marriage cake Hjónabandssæla.
Midday: Eggin í Gleðivík
Stroll to Eggin í Gleðivík (the eggs of merry bay in English), unique outdoor art installation featuring 34 oversized granite eggs, each representing a local nesting bird species. Set against the sea, it’s one of the most iconic sights in town and a must-see for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Afternoon: Hiking and Birdwatching
Head just outside town to explore the wetlands. Djúpivogur is known as a birdwatcher’s paradise, with Arctic terns, eiders, and many other species nesting in the area. Short trails make it easy to enjoy the scenery, and if you’re lucky, you might spot wild reindeer roaming in the distance.
Evening: Dinner, a Harbor Stroll & local beers
Return to town for dinner at Hótel Framtíð, where fresh fish dishes are a highlight. Afterward, take a slow stroll along the harbour to Faktor Brugghús a brewpub and cafe for a local craft beer.
Day 3: Culture and Farewell Views
Morning: Local History and Crafts
Wake up slow and visit the contemporary art gallery Ars Longa. The heart of ARS LONGA is its collection of works gifted by renowned artist and museum founder Sigurður Guðmundsson who is the artist behind Eggin í Gleðivík. Stop by the nearby craft shop Bakkabúð for locally made wool products, ceramics, hand crafts and jewelry for gifts and souvenirs that are the perfect way to share and remember Djúpivogur.
Check out our guide to shopping in Djúpivogur to find the perfect shop for you.
Midday: Lunch before a Scenic Drive Out
Before leaving, stop for lunch at Hafið Bistro and enjoy views over the harbour.
On your way out of Djúpivogur, take a short detour for a panoramic view of the fjord. The stillness of the water and the dramatic mountains around it are unforgettable.
The perfect weekend in Djúpivogur
Many travelers pass quickly through the east fjords, but Djúpivogur rewards those who linger. With its mix of art, community, and natural beauty, the town invites you to slow down and experience Iceland differently. A weekend here isn’t about ticking boxes, it’s about sinking into the rhythm of a place where time moves at the speed of the sea.
If you have any questions about Djúpivogur or the East of Iceland or would like a guided tour please contact us. Take a little read on how the passionate legacy our local family cannot wait to guide you.
