Hafnarfjördur

Hafnarfjördur is a warm-hearted port town located just south of Iceland’s capital Reykjavík. The name ‘Hafnarfjördur’ simply means ‘harbour fjord’ in reference to the site’s excellent natural harbor which has the longest history of continuous port trade in Iceland, dating back to the 1300’s.

Hafnarfjördur is set in a unique rocky landscape of cooled lava, resulting from a volcanic eruption from the neighbouring Mount Burfell over 7,000 years ago.

Amidst this special setting live the residents of Hafnarfjördur, who, legend has it, coexist peacefully with fairy folk such as Iceland’s elves and hidden people! Leave your luxury MSC cruise ship for the day and come ashore into a magical world of fable and fairytale.

Children, in particular will delight in the myths surrounding Hafnarfjördur; why not provide them a unique holiday experience and take them elf spotting – a favourite local pastime. Pick up the ‘Hidden Worlds’ map from the Town Hall and seek out the elf folk which, according to the local psychic “can be perceived in gardens all over Hafnarfjörður, but the lava is particularly alive with dwarfs, gnomes and all kinds of elemental beings.” Hidden Worlds walks are also on offer.

For more earthly delights, choose from our package of excursions to help you organize your day off ship. We offer the best deals on activities such as golf and swimming to horse riding and whale-watching. If your cruise vacation takes place in the summer, watch out for the hordes of Norsemen who invade the town for the annual Viking Festival.