Best Art Museums in Reykjavík

Iceland’s capital pulses with creative spirit, and its thriving art scene is a major part of its appeal. Inside the art museums in Reykjavík, you’ll find everything from classical landscapes to contemporary installations. Plus, many are clustered in the center, so it’s easy to hop from one spot to the next. This guide rounds up the must-visit Reykjavík art museums where you can chase inspiration between your wild Icelandic adventures.

Top Art Museums in Reykjavík to Visit

From contemporary galleries to sculpture-focused spaces, these are the city’s top art museums to explore for a dose of culture.

Kjarvalsstaðir (Reykjavík Art Museum)

Set within the greenery of Klambratún Park, Kjarvalsstaðir is the first building in Iceland specifically designed as an art museum. It is named after Jóhannes S. Kjarval, one of the country’s most beloved painters, and features many of his works. His art is well known for capturing the mystical, almost supernatural essence of the Icelandic landscape. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the surrounding park, creating a serene setting to enjoy Kjarval’s paintings alongside rotating exhibitions.

Hafnarhús (Reykjavík Art Museum)

Located in a repurposed harbor warehouse, Hafnarhús is a top destination for contemporary art by local and international artists. Six galleries plus a soaring central courtyard create an industrial backdrop for experimental exhibitions and large-scale installations. The museum is most famous for housing the permanent collection of Erró, one of Iceland’s most internationally acclaimed artists.

The Reykjavík Art Museum is spread across three distinct locations: Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, and Ásmundarsafn. A single entry ticket is valid for all three sites within 24 hours.

Ásmundarsafn (Reykjavík Art Museum)

This museum is located in the former home and studio of Ásmundur Sveinsson, a pioneer of Icelandic sculpture. One of the most distinctive art museums in Reykjavík, the building itself is a work of art. The Mediterranean-inspired architecture was designed by the artist himself. Inside, you can explore Sveinsson’s journey from figurative folklore-inspired pieces to abstract, geometric forms. Don't miss the surrounding sculpture garden, which is free to the public.

National Gallery of Iceland

Overlooking the serene Tjörnin pond in the city center, the National Gallery of Iceland is the country's leading art institution. Housed in a historic building dating back to 1916, the gallery focuses on 19th- and 20th-century Icelandic art. Here, you’ll gain insight into the nation’s artistic development with displays on modern and contemporary art. Its permanent collection features heavyweights like Jóhannes S. Kjarval and Ásmundur Sveinsson, alongside rotating exhibitions of international and contemporary pieces.

The House of Collections (National Gallery of Iceland)

Just a short walk away on Hverfisgata, the House of Collections is a branch of the National Gallery of Iceland. Built in 1906 for the National Library and National Archives, this historic landmark presents a multidisciplinary exhibition of Icelandic culture. The House of Collections stands out in the Reykjavík art scene for bringing together fine art, historical artifacts, and natural specimens. The interior, featuring original wooden bookshelves and ornate detailing, is also an engrossing part of the experience.

Einar Jónsson Sculpture Museum

Perched on the hill right next to Hallgrímskirkja church, this sculpture museum is dedicated to Einar Jónsson, a pioneering Icelandic sculptor. The fortress-like building, which Jónsson designed himself, served as his home, studio, and gallery. While the indoor galleries require a ticket, the surrounding sculpture garden is free to enter and remains open year-round. It’s one of the best art museums in Reykjavík for a quiet stroll among bronze figures and local garden cats. 

The Marshall House

Located in trendy Grandi, The Marshall House is a former 1940s herring factory that’s been transformed into a sleek cultural hub. It’s home to three major artistic entities: the Living Art Museum, the artist-run Kling & Bang gallery, and Studio Ólafur Eliasson. While not a traditional museum, it’s one of the most dynamic art spaces in Reykjavík. It has a raw, industrial vibe that perfectly suits its avant-garde exhibitions.

Reykjavík Museum of Photography

Enjoy a change of medium at the Reykjavík Museum of Photography, located in the Grófin building in central Reykjavík. This museum is a treasure trove for visual storytellers, preserving over 5 million photographs that chronicle Iceland from the 1870s to the present day. Rotating exhibitions range from historical snapshots of Reykjavík’s early days to cutting-edge contemporary photography by local and international artists.

A Visually Immersive Experience at Perlan

While Reykjavík art museums offer a classic cultural experience, Perlan provides a different artistic immersion, merging natural history with craftsmanship. Central to this is the realistic reconstruction of the Látrabjarg Cliff, one of Europe’s largest bird cliffs. This towering, multi-story installation functions as a three-dimensional mural, meticulously detailed to transport visitors from the city to the Westfjords. It celebrates the artistry found in nature, offering a visually immersive experience beyond traditional art museums in Reykjavík.

FAQs

What is the most popular museum in Iceland?

The National Museum of Iceland is among the country’s most important cultural institutions, while Perlan is especially popular for immersive nature exhibits. Both offer valuable insights into Iceland’s heritage and landscapes.

What are the best museums in Reykjavik?

For art lovers, the Reykjavík Art Museum and the National Gallery of Iceland are the premier choices. Other standout venues include the Einar Jónsson Sculpture Museum and the Living Art Museum at the Marshall House.

What should I not miss in Reykjavik?

Don’t miss a walk through the Einar Jónsson Sculpture Garden and a visit to the harbor-side Marshall House for contemporary art. A trip to Perlan for panoramic city views and its indoor ice cave is also a must.

How long should I spend at an art museum in Reykjavík?

Many find that 1.5–2 hours is the perfect amount of time to explore a single site like the National Gallery. If you’re visiting the three branches of the Reykjavík Art Museum, dedicate a full afternoon to all three.

How to save on museum admission in Reykjavík?

The Reykjavík City Card is an excellent investment, offering free entry to all Reykjavík Art Museum locations, plus other museums. It also includes unlimited travel on city buses, making it a budget-friendly way to see art museums in Reykjavík.