Flateyri is a little fishing village in the Westfjords, and it’s a fantastic place for travelers interested in authentic Icelandic culture, dramatic scenery, and quiet charm. The area’s rugged landscape, combined with its history of trade and fishing, makes it a perfect backdrop for a variety of tours. We’ve picked out four of the best experiences, each offering something a little different—from quick half-day jaunts to full-day explorations. Whether you’re after spectacular waterfalls, cultural insights, or scenic drives, Flateyri has something to offer.
One of our favorites is the Westfjords Express Half-Day Tour from Ísafjörður, which packs a lot into just a few hours and is perfect for cruise ship visitors wanting a taste of the region. For a more relaxed, cultural experience, the Ísafjörður: Flateyri Village tour: Nature, Culture, History offers a deeper look into village life. And if you’re up for a full immersion, the Westfjords Express Tour of Fishing Villages from Ísafjörður explores multiple villages and iconic spots in a single day. Lastly, the Ísafjörður: Dynjandi Waterfall & Flateyri Village Tour combines nature’s power with cultural charm for a rich 5.5-hour experience.
1. Westfjords Express Half-Day Tour from Ísafjörður
This private half-day tour offers a quick, yet memorable escape to the highlights of the Westfjords. Designed especially for cruise ship guests, it gives you the chance to see the majestic Dynjandi waterfall, explore quaint fishing villages, and enjoy stunning fjord views—all in about 5.5 hours. The flexible departure times make it easy to fit into your cruise schedule or Iceland itinerary.
The tour begins with a pickup in Ísafjörður, then heads out along scenic roads that wind through the region’s rugged landscape. The big highlight is the Dynjandi waterfall — a cascade that’s so impressive it looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. You’ll get a photo stop and some time to admire the view. The tour also visits local fishing villages, offering a glimpse into traditional Icelandic life. The private nature of this tour means you can customize the pace and focus, making it ideal for travelers who want a personalized experience.
Bottom line: If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive introduction to the Westfjords, this private tour delivers spectacular scenery and local flavor with maximum flexibility.
2. Ísafjörður: Flateyri Village tour: Nature, Culture, History
For those interested in exploring beyond the scenery, this 2.5-hour guided tour offers an insightful look into Flateyri, a village that has been trading since 1792. Starting at the Ísafjörður cruise dock, the tour takes you through scenic drives and delivers a deeper understanding of the village’s history, culture, and natural surroundings.
The journey includes a visit through the tunnel connecting Ísafjörður to Flateyri, a feat of engineering that’s interesting on its own. Once in Flateyri, you’ll have about 1.5 hours to walk around, take photos of the table-top mountains and white sandy beaches, and learn about the village’s role in Iceland’s fishing industry. The tour provides historical context—like how Flateyri has survived local economic shifts—and cultural insights, making it much more than just a sightseeing drive.
This tour is perfect for travelers looking for a relaxed pace and a meaningful cultural connection. It’s especially appealing if you want to combine scenic views with local stories and a taste of daily life.
Bottom line: A relaxed but informative way to uncover Flateyri’s quiet charm, ideal for those interested in Iceland’s fishing villages and regional history.
3. Westfjords Express Tour of Fishing Villages from Ísafjörður
If you’re eager to see multiple highlights in a single day, this 8-hour tour offers a comprehensive look at the Westfjords’ most picturesque fishing villages. Starting with a pickup in Ísafjörður, you’ll visit Bolungarvík, Ísafjörður town itself, Flateyri, and then head to the majestic Dynjandi waterfall for a photo stop.
This tour is led by a knowledgeable local guide who shares stories and insights along the way, making it a rich cultural experience. The itinerary includes light walks, photo opportunities, and enough time in each village to appreciate their unique character. The highlight for many is the chance to see remote, authentic Icelandic communities that have preserved their traditional way of life. The combination of scenic drives, charming villages, and natural wonders makes this tour a favorite for those wanting a full day of Westfjords exploration.
Guests say the tour offers “a great balance of culture, nature, and history,” and the private group size means you get personalized attention. It’s a good pick if you want to maximize your day and see several key spots.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers with a full day to spare who want a detailed, guided look at some of Iceland’s most remote fishing villages and natural scenery.
4. Ísafjörður: Dynjandi Waterfall & Flateyri Village Tour
At 5.5 hours, this tour combines the breathtaking Dynjandi waterfall with a visit to the charming village of Flateyri. Starting from Þingeyri, the journey takes you along scenic coastal roads with frequent stops for photos and exploration.
The Dynjandi visit is the centerpiece—your guide will share stories about its formation and significance, and you’ll have plenty of free time to walk around and take photos of this impressive cascade. Afterward, the tour continues to Flateyri, a village known for its history as a trading port, and its beautiful, rugged landscape. The guide provides insights into the village’s past and present, making it a well-rounded experience.
This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a balance of natural splendor and cultural depth without committing to a full day. The scenic drive along the coastline offers additional photo opportunities, and the small-group setting ensures a more intimate experience.
Bottom line: A great choice for those who want to combine Iceland’s iconic waterfall with a taste of village life, all within a manageable half-day.
How to Choose Your Flateyri Tour
When selecting the best experience, consider your time availability, interests, and budget. If you’re short on time and want a quick overview, the Westfjords Express Half-Day Tour is perfect. For a deeper cultural dive, the Flateyri Village Tour offers a relaxed pace and local insights.
Those eager to see as much as possible in one day should choose the Westfjords Express Tour of Fishing Villages, which covers multiple villages and highlights. If your main goal is to experience both the grandeur of Dynjandi and the charm of Flateyri, the Dynjandi & Flateyri Tour balances scenic waterfalls with cultural exploration.
Book early, especially in summer, as these tours tend to fill up quickly. Think about your physical comfort – some tours involve walking and outdoor exposure, so dress accordingly.
To sum it up, Flateyri offers a remarkable mix of spectacular natural sights and authentic village life. Whether you choose a quick private half-day trip, a cultural walk, or a full-day expedition, you’ll come away with a deeper understanding of this remote corner of Iceland. For most travelers, the Westfjords Express Half-Day Tour and the Dynjandi & Flateyri Tour are particularly good choices—offering a genuine taste of Iceland’s rugged beauty. Remember, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences.