Reykjavík Maritime Museum

Reykjavík


The crucial role fishing plays in Iceland's economy is celebrated through the imaginative displays in this former fish-freezing plant. The new exhibition Fish & folk evokes 150 years of the industry, using artefacts, sepia photos and interactive games to chart a course from the row boats of the late 1800s to the trawlers of the 21st century. Make time for one of the daily guided tours of the former coastguard ship Óðínn (1300kr).

The vessel is a veteran of the 1970s Cod Wars, when British and Icelandic fishers came to blows over fishing rights in the North Atlantic.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Reykjavík attractions

1. Aurora Reykjavík

0.07 MILES

Learn about the classical tales explaining the Northern Lights, and the scientific explanation, then watch a 35-minute surround-sound panoramic high…

2. Saga Museum

0.09 MILES

The endearingly bloodthirsty Saga Museum is where Icelandic history is brought to life by eerie silicon models and a multi-language soundtrack featuring…

3. Whales of Iceland

0.14 MILES

Ever strolled beneath a blue whale? This museum houses full-sized models of the 23 species of whale found off Iceland's coast. The largest museum of this…

4. Old Harbour

0.24 MILES

Largely a service harbour until recently, the Old Harbour and the neighbouring Grandi area have blossomed into tourist hot spots, with key art galleries,…

5. i8

0.29 MILES

Displays works by some of the country’s top modern artists, many of whom show overseas as well.

6. Volcano House

0.3 MILES

This modern theatre with a hands-on lava exhibit in the foyer screens a 55-minute pair of films in English (hourly) about the Vestmannaeyjar volcanoes and…

7. Reykjavík Museum of Photography

0.34 MILES

This gallery room, high above Reykjavík City Library, is well worth a visit for its top-notch exhibitions of regional photographers. If you take the lift…

8. Nýló

0.35 MILES

This dynamic centre for emerging and established contemporary artists, live music and other performances has a new space in the renovated Marshall House…