Reykjavík is a museum treasure trove offering a window into the nation's rich culture. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or simply a curious traveller, the museums in Reykjavík have something to captivate every visitor. Here's a handy guide to the best museums in Reykjavík.

The Museum of Design and Applied Art

The Museum of Design and Applied Art, located in the municipality Garðabær, just a short drive from downtown Reykjavík, is dedicated to showcasing Icelandic design from the 20th century to the present day. The museum highlights the evolution of Icelandic design, featuring everything from furniture and graphic design to textiles and ceramics. Temporary exhibitions often explore contemporary design trends, making it a dynamic and inspiring visit for anyone interested in design.

The National Museum of Iceland

Situated in the heart of Reykjavík, The National Museum of Iceland offers a fascinating overview of Icelandic history from the settlement era to the modern age. The museum's permanent exhibition, "Making of a Nation," features over 2,000 artefacts, including Viking swords, medieval manuscripts, and religious artefacts. Interactive displays and multimedia presentations bring Iceland's rich history to life, making it an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

Whales of Iceland

The Whales of Iceland exhibition, located in Reykjavík's harbor area, is the largest whale exhibition in Europe, featuring life-sized models of 23 different whale species. Through interactive displays, immersive sounds, and educational exhibits, visitors can explore the fascinating world of these majestic marine giants and learn about their habitats, behaviors, and conservation efforts.

Perlan Museum

Perlan, one of Reykjavík's most iconic buildings, is home to the Wonders of Iceland exhibition, which showcases the country's unique geology. Visitors can explore an artificial ice cave, learn about Iceland's glaciers, volcanoes, and geothermal activity, and enjoy a 360-degree view of Reykjavík from the observation deck. The museum also features a planetarium that offers immersive shows about the northern lights.

Saga Museum

The Saga Museum brings Iceland's Viking history to life through life-sized wax figures and detailed interactive exhibits. The museum recreates key moments from the Icelandic sagas, providing insights into the early settlers' lives, battles, and everyday activities. It's fascinating to step back in time and experience the rich storytelling tradition forming Icelandic culture's foundation.

The Icelandic Phallological Museum

For something truly unique, visit the Icelandic Phallological Museum. This quirky museum houses the world's largest display of penises and penile parts from various animal species found in Iceland. While it may seem unusual, the museum provides an educational and often humorous look at these specimens' biological diversity and significance.

The Natural History Museum of Kópavogur

A short distance from downtown Reykjavík, the Natural History Museum of Kópavogur offers a glimpse into Iceland's natural world. The museum's collections include Icelandic flora, fauna, minerals, and fossils. Interactive exhibits and detailed dioramas make it an excellent place for families and nature enthusiasts to learn about Iceland's unique ecosystem.

Gerðarsafn Art Museum

Gerðarsafn Art Museum, located in Kópavogur City Area, is dedicated to modern and contemporary art. The museum features a diverse collection of works by Icelandic and international artists, including paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations. It is named after the pioneering Icelandic artist Gerður Helgadóttir, whose works are prominently displayed.

Reykjavík Art Museum

Reykjavík Art Museum has three locations, and Hafnarhús is its hub for contemporary art. Located in a refurbished warehouse by the old harbour, Hafnarhús features exhibitions by Icelandic and international artists. The museum is also home to a permanent exhibition of works by Erró, one of Iceland's most influential pop artists. 

Other locations for Reykjavík Art Museum are Kjarvalsstaðir and Ásmundarsafn, which are both dedicated to the art of two of Iceland's best-known artists.

Einar Jónsson Scultpure Museum

Dedicated to one of Iceland's most known sculptors, Einar Jónsson, this museum showcases his extensive collection of sculptures. Located near Hallgrímskirkja, the museum includes a beautiful garden where visitors can enjoy Einar's works outdoors. The sculptures draw heavily on Icelandic mythology and folklore and offer a unique perspective on the nation's artistic heritage.

Reykjavík City Museum

The Reykjavík City Museum encompasses several historical sites and museums, each offering a unique glimpse into Reykjavík's past. Highlights include the Árbær Open Air Museum, where visitors can explore historic buildings and experience life in early 20th-century Reykjavík, and the Settlement Exhibition, which reveals the city's Viking origins through archaeological finds.

Gljúfrasteinn

Gljúfrasteinn, the former home of Nobel Prize-winning author and national treasure Halldór Laxness, is now a museum dedicated to his life and work. Located just outside Reykjavík, this beautifully preserved house offers a glimpse into the daily life of one of Iceland's most celebrated writers. Visitors can explore Laxness's study, which is filled with his personal belongings and books, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings that inspired much of his writing.

Museums in Reykjavík

Reykjavík's museums offer a rich tapestry of experiences that reflect Iceland's diverse history, art, and culture. From the ancient sagas and Viking relics at the National Museum of Iceland to the contemporary art at Reykjavík Art Museum - Hafnarhús, there's something for every traveller. Whether you're exploring the natural wonders at Perlan or the historic exhibits at the Reykjavík City Museum, Reykjavík's museums offer a journey through the heart of Iceland's heritage. Check out the variety of Reykjavík's museums and exhibitions here.

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