Northernmost botanical garden in the world, featuring over 7,000 plant species including native Icelandic flora and exotic plants from around the globe. Beautiful peaceful gardens with excellent collection of Arctic and sub-Arctic plants thriving despite the location just 50km from the Arctic Circle.
Lystigarðurinn, Akureyri's botanical garden, sits within walking distance of the town center and holds the distinction of being the northernmost botanical garden in the world, located only about 50 kilometers south of the Arctic Circle. Founded in 1912, it now grows more than 7,000 plant species, ranging from native Icelandic flora adapted to subarctic conditions to a surprising range of exotic species that thrive thanks to the sheltered microclimate of Eyjafjörður fjord and Akureyri's relatively mild summers for its latitude. Gravel paths wind through themed beds separating native alpine plants, perennial borders, and a rock garden, with benches scattered throughout for a slow walk. A small on-site cafe serves coffee and light food with views over the plantings, a popular stop for locals as much as visitors. Because admission is free year-round, the garden functions as a quiet public park for Akureyri residents as well as a horticultural attraction, and it is at its fullest bloom from June through August. A relaxed walk through the full garden takes about an hour to 90 minutes, longer for those interested in reading the plant labels or lingering at the cafe.
| Admission | $0 (free) |
|---|---|
| Hours | June-September: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM, October-May: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
| Typical visit | 1-2 hours |
| Address | Eyrarlandsvegur, 600 Akureyri |
Good to know
- Best for
- families, nature lovers, solo travelers
Weather through the year in Iceland
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Iceland.
Location
Eyrarlandsvegur, 600 Akureyri
65.6877, -18.1053 View on map
Highlights
- World's northernmost botanical garden
- Over 7,000 plant species from native to exotic
- Free admission year-round
- On-site cafe with garden views
- Peaceful public park in central Akureyri
Tips for visiting
- Best visited during summer blooming season
- Free admission year-round
- Cafe with garden views on site
- Peaceful escape in Iceland's second city
When to visit
Visit June through August for peak blooming; the garden is quietest in the early morning.
Accessibility
The main gravel paths are wide and mostly flat, making the garden accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, though some side paths have uneven surfaces.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to the botanical garden take?
About an hour to 90 minutes for a relaxed walk through the full garden.
Is the garden worth it for kids?
Yes, the flat paths and open lawns make it an easy, low-key stop for families, especially combined with the cafe.
Is photography allowed in the garden?
Photography is allowed throughout the garden with no restrictions.
Is there an admission fee?
No, the garden is free to enter year-round, though hours are shorter outside the summer season.