Museums in Reykjavík

Reykjavik is the cultural hub of Iceland, full of world-class museums and historical marvels. Though there are many small museums that cater to specialty interests, here’s a round-up of those with the broadest appeal.

The National Museum
This is exactly the sort of place you think of when you hear the word “museum.” Lots to see, and lots to read. The National Museum’s expansive collections document the entire history of Iceland, from Viking settlement to the modern day. The permanent exhibition includes artwork, textiles, weapons, jewelry, and archaeological artifacts of all kinds. History buffs can easily spend an afternoon here. Be sure to visit the gift shop to peruse trinkets and curios that are harder to find in tourist shops downtown.

Reykjavik Art Museum
If you’re looking for some local culture, the Reykjavik Art Museum should do the trick. This is the largest visual art installation in Iceland, focusing on contemporary pieces. Though some international artists are included, there’s a strong focus on Icelandic artists, both established and emerging. The museum is divided into three locations: Kjarvalsstadir, Hafnarhus, and Ásmundarsafn. Each location has a slightly different flavor, so you may want to do a little research to see which one suits your palate best.

The Settlement Exhibition: Reykjavík 871±2
Back in 2001, a construction project unexpectedly unearthed the remains of a Viking longhouse, dating back to roughly 871 AD. It’s the oldest human-made site discovered in Iceland, and a great place to get a crash course in Reykjavik’s early history. The longhouse has been preserved as-is, and serves as the museum’s focal point. The Settlement Exhibition is on the smaller side -- you’ll probably get through it in an hour -- but its engaging interactive maps and displays make this place well worth a visit. If you’re interested in Viking history, or just want to put Reykjavik in a clearer global context, the Settlement Exhibition is a must-see.

The Culture House
Literature is a key part of Iceland’s heritage, and few places represent that better than the Culture House. This collection of national treasures includes original manuscripts of the Icelandic Sagas and Poetic Eddas, as well as a varied selection of medieval writings. The Culture House is open year round, with guided tours available on weekdays (the days vary by season).

The Maritime Museum
Ahoy, seafarers! Reykjavik wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for sailing and fishing, two inextricable parts of Icelandic life. Everything from rowboats to cargo ships is covered here, with two retired vessels docked right outside. The human side of Iceland’s maritime history is woven throughout the exhibition, detailing the cultural and economic changes that have shaped our country through the centuries.