Akranes, Iceland 🇮🇸
#1546
64.31708, -22.083351
Nomad Score:
58%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Akranes is a charming coastal town located in the western part of Iceland, known for its scenic views and rich maritime history. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 7,500 residents. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average fixed broadband speeds are around 50 Mbps. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | Currency used is Icelandic Krona (ISK). 1 EUR ≈ 146 ISK, 1 USD ≈ 135 ISK. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Drinkable and of high quality, sourced from natural springs. |
| 🔌 Power | 230V, 50Hz, 🔌 Type F sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Available from providers such as Siminn, Vodafone, and Nova with prepaid options. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Banks like Íslandsbanki and Landsbankinn are widely available, offering international services. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options include Airbnb, guesthouses, and local housing agencies. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Yes, cards are widely accepted; cash use is minimal. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Short-term options like Airbnb and local guesthouses are available. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostels and guesthouses such as Akranes Hostel offer affordable lodging. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | Borgarbyggð Community Center offers a quiet and inspiring work environment. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Kaffi Munch is a popular choice with Wi-Fi and a cozy atmosphere. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Community events are often organized in the Akranes Cultural Center. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Local Facebook groups and community boards often list meetups and gatherings. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Sjö Taxi is a reliable local taxi service. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Bike rentals are available at various stores in town, like K-Rauta. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Akranes beach, a short walk from the town center, is ideal for relaxation. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Eagle Air offers regional flights connecting to small towns. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Icelandair operates flights to and from major global destinations. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | The town is accessible via Route 1, connecting to Reykjavik. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | There are no train stations; buses are the main form of public transportation with services to and from Reykjavik. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Reykjavik's bus service ensures transportation; day passes are available. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Bus services operated by Strætó connect Akranes to nearby areas like Borgarnes. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Akranes Hospital offers basic healthcare services; for emergencies, Reykjavik is only a short drive away. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Lukka Yoga and various studios in Reykjavik offer yoga classes. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fitness centers include Sit Tight Gym, offering memberships for short stays. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Laundromats are available in town; services like Laundromat are popular. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Fæðis is a local food delivery service that connects with various restaurants. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try dishes like Plokkfiskur (fish stew) at local diners. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Vegan Café in Akranes offers many plant-based meals. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Sælgætisverslunin is a charming candy shop offering local treats. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | The local Kolaportið market offers affordable Icelandic foods and crafts. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Online stores like Elko and Icelandic supermarkets provide wide shopping options. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Bónus and Krónan offer delivery services in Akranes. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Akranes has limited nightlife; pubs like Smiðjan are popular choices. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Akranes also has a small local brewery, Borg Brugghús, producing craft beers. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Vinbuthin is the go-to for wine enthusiasts. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Look for local vendors during summertime around Akranes. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Pizzería Akranes offers a diverse menu with international options. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Akranes Lighthouse and the Akranes Folk Museum are top attractions. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | Akranes Museum Center showcases local history and culture. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Visit the remnants of the old Akranes Church for historical insights. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | Akranes Church, known for its stunning architecture, is worth a visit. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Akranes hosts an annual maritime festival celebrating its seafaring heritage. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | The harbor area is vibrant with art installations and local culture. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Community plays and performances are held at the Akranes Cultural Center. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | The local market on weekends features arts, crafts, and fresh produce. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Various events are hosted at local pubs featuring live music. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Look out for murals around the harbor area showcasing local artists. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Cooking classes featuring traditional Icelandic foods are offered locally. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Gallerí Akranes showcases works from local artists and artisans. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | The Old Akranes Lighthouse is a local treasure. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | The town celebrates its maritime heritage through various cultural events. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Mt. Akrafjall offers stunning hiking opportunities with breathtaking views. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Snæfellsjökull National Park is a 2-hour drive for hiking and exploring natural beauty. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | The coastal path provides scenic routes for walking and cycling. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | The viewpoint by the Akrafjall mountain is perfect for panoramic photos. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | The coastal cliffs are ideal for observing seabird colonies. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated areas at the beach allow bonfires during summer. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Iceland Post offers reliable parcel delivery services. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Local stores like 3X offer tech repair and services. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Akranes sports hall has table tennis facilities. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Icelandic language classes are available for expats at the cultural center. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | The Akranes Library is a quiet place for study and reading. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | The Akranes Cultural Center hosts various community activities. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Look for board game cafes like Gyllti Siggi for fun gatherings. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | There are no casinos in Akranes; Reykjavik is the closest option. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. €2,500 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = €100,000). |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. €2,000 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = €80,000). |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. €2,800 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = €168,000). |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. €2,300 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = €138,000). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. €2,600 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = €208,000). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. €2,100 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = €168,000). |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 20%. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 20%. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Iceland has a progressive tax system based on worldwide income. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 46.24%. |
| 🧾 VAT | 24% standard rate. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, there are regulations regarding foreign subsidiaries. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Yes, based on assessed value. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | 1.5%. |