Top 12 Art Museums and Galleries in Reykjavik

Reykjavik’s Vibrant Street Art and Sculptures

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Bryan Ledgard. No edits made.

Reykjavik’s art scene isn’t confined to museums alone. As you stroll through the city, you’ll encounter vibrant murals and creative graffiti adorning the sides of buildings. Local residents often display their own artwork in windows, and sculptures dot the streets and parks, offering a living snapshot of Iceland’s artistic heritage.

How To Visit Reykjavik’s Best Art Museums

We recommend purchasing the Reykjavik City Card to simplify exploring the art scene. With free access to many museums, including the Reykjavik Art Museum and the National Gallery of Iceland, it’s an affordable and convenient option for culture enthusiasts.

With multiple duration options (24, 48, or 72 hours), it’s perfect for those planning to visit several locations during their stay.

For added convenience, renting a car in Reykjavik can help you explore the city’s art offerings at your own pace. Or if you don’t want to drive, try a hop-on, hop-off bus tour.

If you’re eager to explore the best of Reykjavik’s artistic heritage, keep reading for our top 12 art museums and galleries.

12. Immersive Modern Installations: Hofudstodin Art & Culture Center

Hofudstodin Art and Culture Center, located just outside Reykjavik on the edge of Ellidaardalur Valley, is a cutting-edge cultural venue that blends contemporary art with community engagement. The center frequently hosts rotating exhibits, performances, and immersive installations, making it a unique destination for art lovers seeking modern Icelandic creativity.

One of its most notable exhibits, Chromo Sapiens, was created by Icelandic artist Shoplifter (Hrafnhildur Arnardóttir) and presented at the Icelandic Pavilion at the Venice Biennale in 2019. This immersive exhibition uses bold colors and synthetic materials to explore themes of human evolution, artificial intelligence, and the complex relationship between technology and identity.

Inside the Chromo Sapiens installation by Shoplifter.

Visitors are taken on a visually striking journey through a narrative that challenges perceptions of humanity in the digital age, with soundscapes provided by the Icelandic band HAM.

After exploring the exhibits, visitors can relax at the on-site cafe while enjoying the stunning valley views. The design store features unique products designed by Shoplifter and her collaborations with renowned brands. Guests can also enjoy the outdoor area—a spacious patio perfect for a beverage or letting kids play when the weather permits.

Wheelchair access is available throughout the installation, cafe, gift store, and other areas for easy navigation. The center offers free parking and disabled parking, with additional parking available for large cars and buses in a nearby designated spot.

Located just 10 minutes from downtown Reykjavík, it’s a convenient and welcoming destination for all.

• Location: Rafstiodvarvegur, 110 Reykjavík, Iceland
• Focus: Contemporary art, cultural exhibitions, and performances
• Admission: Included in the Reykjavik City Card
• Hours: Weekdays, 12 PM–6 PM; Weekends, 11 AM–5 PM
• Must-See: Chromo Sapiens—an immersive, colorful exhibit exploring the intersection of human evolution and technology

 11. A Tribute to a Trailblazing Sculptor: Gerdarsa

Gerdarsafn Art Museum is located in Kopavogur, just a 15-minute drive from Reykjavik, and offers the opportunity to explore modern and contemporary art in Iceland.

The museum is named in memory of Gerdur Helgadottir (1928-1975), one of Iceland's most influential sculptors, celebrated for her work with materials like metal, clay, and concrete. Work in these industrial materials is often viewed as unconventional for women artists of her time.

Her legacy is honored here, alongside an ever-changing array of exhibitions featuring both Icelandic and international artists.

One of the key highlights of the museum is the collection of works by Gerdur Helgadottir herself, including sculptures and mosaics that display her bold use of materials. Her stained-glass windows can be seen at iconic landmarks like Kopavogur Church and Hallgrimskirkja.

In addition to Gerdur’s work, visitors can explore exhibitions featuring the works of Barbara Arnason, Magnus A. Arnason, and a selection from the collection of art instructor Valgerdur Briem.

The museum also offers an immersive experience for all ages. Visitors can enjoy a creative space dedicated to families, where young artists can make their own art. Various educational programs and workshops are also offered, encouraging curiosity and creativity among children and adults alike.

After exploring the art, unwind at the cozy cafe on the bottom floor, which overlooks a peaceful park. You can also visit the museum gift shop, which sells art-inspired products, jewelry, books, and decor.

Located within Kopavogur Culture Hill, Gerdarsafn is part of a cultural hub that includes the Natural History Museum, Salurinn Concert Hall, and the Kopavogur Library. Although the easiest way to get there is by rental car, the museum is also accessible by city bus.

• Location: Hamraborg 4, 200 Kopavogur, Iceland
• Focus: Modern and contemporary art, Icelandic sculptures, temporary exhibitions
• Hours: Daily, 12 PM–5 PM
• Must-See: Sculptural works of Gerdur Helgadottir, including mosaics, glass pieces, and architectural pieces outside Tollhusid

10. Capturing Iceland’s Beauty in Print: Iurie Fine Art

Iurie Fine Art showcases the awe-inspiring landscape photography of Iurie Belegurschi, an Iceland-based photographer known for his exceptional ability to capture nature's ever-changing beauty. The gallery features three locations in the city center, offering visitors an intimate look at the stunning natural wonders of Iceland and beyond.

Belegurschi’s work focuses primarily on Iceland’s most iconic landscapes—coastlines, glaciers, volcanic areas, ice caves, and the northern lights—using light and color to highlight the raw beauty of these natural environments.

His photographs also highlight the effects of time and human influence on nature, with many works depicting the same subject captured in different seasons or years apart.

Belegurschi has captured landscapes in Antarctica, Greenland, and Japan, and these pieces are occasionally on display at the gallery. Iurie Fine Art offers a collection of prints on canvas, glass, and aluminum in various sizes. Larger prints can be shipped worldwide for those wishing to bring home a piece of nature’s wonder.

With its central location, Iurie Fine Art is the perfect stop for anyone interested in photography or Icelandic landscapes. Don’t miss the chance to experience these breathtaking images in person at one of Iurie Fine Art’s Reykjavik locations. A curated selection is also available to browse and purchase online through the gallery’s official website.

• Location: Skolavordustigur 6, Laugavegur 25, and Tryggvagata 23, 101 Reykjavik
• Focus: Landscape photography, Icelandic nature
• Admission: Free
• Hours: Daily, 10 AM–6 PM
• Must-See: Iurie Belegurschi's breathtaking photography of Icelandic landscapes, including coastlines, glaciers, ice caves, and the northern lights

9. Local Art in a Seaside Town: Hafnarborg Center of Culture & Fine Art

The Hafnarborg Center for Culture and Fine Art, located in the charming town of Hafnarfjordur, just 8.0 miles (12.9 kilometers) from Reykjavik, is a vibrant cultural hub promoting established and emerging Icelandic artists.

Hafnarborg was founded in 1983, when Sverrir Magnusson and Ingibjörg Sigurjónsdóttir donated their home and private art collection to the town, with the condition that it turn into a cultural center. The house was later renovated and opened to the public as an art museum in 1988.

Hafnarborg hosts 8–10 temporary exhibitions each year, focusing on a diverse range of art forms, themes, and mediums. With a rotating schedule, there’s always something new and exciting to see, so be sure to check their exhibition calendar before your visit.

The exhibitions often feature Icelandic and international artists, as well as student and up-and-coming artists, ensuring the space remains fresh, inspiring, and engaging.

The center has a lovely museum shop where you can purchase art books and Icelandic art-related souvenirs. If you're feeling hungry, head to Krydd, the on-site restaurant, which serves a variety of dishes and excellent cocktails.

A visit to Hafnarborg is a chance to explore both art and the beautiful town of Hafnarfjordur. Located along the main street, it’s within walking distance of cafes, shops, and the Hafnarfjordur Museum, where you can learn more about the town’s history.

• Location: Strandgata 34, 220 Hafnarfjordur
• Focus: Contemporary and local Icelandic art
• Admission: Free
• Hours: Wednesday to Monday, 12 PM–5 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
• Must-See: Rotating exhibitions showcasing local and international artists in various media, often featuring multiple artists or art forms

8. Photography Through an Icelandic Lens: Reykjavik Museum of Photography

The Reykjavik Museum of Photography, located on the top floor of the Grofarhus building (which also houses the Reykjavik City Library), is a must-visit for photography lovers.

This museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing both Icelandic and international photography, providing a comprehensive look into the history and evolution of the medium from its early days to the present.

The museum is conveniently located next to the Reykjavik Art Museum and is part of the Reykjavik City Museum Collective, which includes some of the city’s best cultural institutions. The museum’s collection offers a journey through Iceland’s history, as documented through the lenses of professional and amateur photographers.

A significant portion of their collection is also available in an online photography database, making it accessible to those who want to explore Iceland’s photographic history from afar.

The museum hosts a mix of exhibitions that change several times a year, with a focus on historical and contemporary photography.

One of the museum's highlights is its annual “Photograph of the Year” exhibition, which features press photography from the previous year. Typically held in May, this exhibition showcases stories captured by the country’s photographers and significant events.

The Reykjavik Museum of Photography publishes its own photography books, and its gift shop offers a variety of photography-related items, including posters, decor, and unique souvenirs—perfect for art and photography lovers looking to take home a memento of their trip.

• Location: Grofarhus, Tryggvagata 15 (Top Floor), 101 Reykjavik
• Focus: Icelandic and international photography
• Admission: Free for Reykjavik City Card holders
• Hours: Monday to Thursday, 10 AM–6 PM; Friday, 11 AM–6 PM; Weekends, 1 PM–5 PM
• Must-See: The annual “Photograph of the Year” exhibition in May, featuring press photography from the previous year

7. A Hub for Experimental Art: The Marshall House

Photo from Marshallhusid.

The Marshall House is Reykjavik’s contemporary art hub, located in the Grandi District, about a 20-minute walk from the city center. Originally built in 1948 as a fish meal factory, this historic building houses some of Iceland’s most dynamic art institutions, making it a must-visit for those interested in cutting-edge contemporary art.

The Living Art Museum (Nylistasafnid, or Nylo) is the highlight of the Marshall House. Founded in 1978 by a group of artists, it is Iceland’s oldest artist-run museum and one of the oldest in Europe.

The museum serves as a vital platform for experimental and contemporary art, showcasing installations, video art, performance pieces, and interdisciplinary works from Icelandic and international artists.

​Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Nylistasafnid. No edits made.

Another key space within the Marshall House is Kling & Bang, a gallery founded by 10 artists in 2003. Known for its bold and provocative exhibitions, Kling & Bang consistently pushes artistic boundaries and features ever-changing exhibits that challenge conventional perspectives.

On the top floor, you’ll find a showroom by Ólafur Elíasson, one of Iceland’s most internationally acclaimed artists, known for his large-scale installations and exploration of light, color, and perception. Meanwhile, the ground floor houses La Primavera, a highly regarded Italian restaurant perfect for a post-gallery meal.

Located near the Reykjavik Maritime Museum, the Saga Museum, and the Whales of Iceland Exhibition, the Marshall House is a fantastic addition to any itinerary exploring the Grandi area’s cultural and historical sites.

• Location: Grandagardur 20, 101 Reykjavik
• Focus: Contemporary and experimental art, artist-run spaces
• Admission: Free
• Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 12 PM–6 PM (Closed Mondays, Tuesdays, and between exhibitions)
• Must-See: The Living Art Museum—Iceland’s leading platform for contemporary and experimental art, featuring interdisciplinary works and artist talks

6. Modernist Forms & Folklore: Asmundarsafn - Asmundur Sculpture Museum

5. Sculptures Rooted in Myth & Identity: Einar Jonsson Museum & Sculpture Garden

Photo from the Einar Jonsson Museum.

The Einar Jonsson Museum and Sculpture Garden, located next to Hallgrimskirkja Church, is one of Reykjavik’s most important cultural landmarks. Dedicated to Iceland’s first sculptor, Einar Jónsson (1874-1954), the museum offers a deep dive into his life, artistic vision, and contributions to Icelandic art and national identity.

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by WiseWoman. No edits made.

A Museum Built by an Artist for the Nation

The museum, designed by Jónsson in 1923, was Iceland’s first art museum. A strong advocate for public access to art, Jónsson donated his life’s work to the nation in 1909 in exchange for government funding to create the institution. The building’s architecture reflects a fusion of traditional Icelandic and European influences, housing not only his works but also his former home and studio.

Inside, the museum displays an extensive collection of Jónsson’s sculptures, paintings, and drawings—each room highlights different periods of his career and artistic themes. His works are highly symbolic, inspired by Icelandic mythology, folklore, and national history, giving visitors insights into the country’s artistic heritage.

​Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Smallbones. No edits made.

The Free Sculpture Garden

Even if you don’t visit the museum itself, the sculpture garden is well worth a stop. Open year-round with free entry, it features some of Jónsson’s most iconic pieces. These sculptures depict mythological figures and legendary heroes, adding a dramatic and contemplative element to the serene green space of the garden.

Though Jónsson’s work is deeply rooted in Icelandic culture, his influence extends far beyond the country’s borders. In the early 20th century, he was commissioned to create sculptures for the American government, spreading his artistic vision internationally.

Among these works is a statue of Jón Sigurðsson, the leader of Iceland’s independence movement, which now stands in Montreal, Canada. Another of his most notable international works is a statue of Þorfinnur Karlsefni, an Icelandic explorer believed to have reached North America centuries before Columbus, which is displayed in Philadelphia, USA.

These international installations reflect Jónsson’s exceptional craftsmanship and Iceland’s enduring impact on global history and culture.

For those interested in Icelandic mythology, history, and art, visiting the Einar Jónsson Museum and Sculpture Garden offers a fascinating journey through the mind of one of the country’s most visionary artists.

• Location: Eiríksgata 3, 101 Reykjavik
• Focus: Sculpture, Icelandic mythology, and national identity
• Admission: Paid entry for the museum; the sculpture garden is free and open year-round
• Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 12 PM–5 PM (Closed Mondays)
• Must-See: The sculpture garden, accessible anytime for free, featuring mythological and symbolic works by Einar Jónsson

 4. A Creative Journey Through Nature: Safnahusid—The House of Collections

​Located in the heart of Reykjavik on Hverfisgata, Safnahusid (sometimes called the Culture House) is a treasure trove of Icelandic art, history, and science. As part of the National Gallery of Iceland, this museum brings together some of the most captivating pieces from Iceland’s national collections, presenting them through a unique and immersive lens.

​A Museum of Art & Science

Unlike traditional galleries, Safnahusid bridges the gap between art and natural history, encouraging visitors to interpret and engage with exhibits personally.

The museum's four floors are structured around themes connected to nature, each offering a different perspective on Iceland's landscapes, creatures, and culture.

• 4th Floor: Air — Explores the sky, space, and atmospheric elements in art.

• 3rd Floor: Land — Showcases animals and Iceland’s diverse ecosystems.

• 2nd Floor: Water — Highlights the significance of the ocean in Icelandic life and mythology.

• 1st Floor: Natural Principles — Examines Iceland’s geology and environmental forces.

A small but fascinating exhibit in the basement is dedicated to Icelandic folklore, featuring stories of elves, trolls, and other mythical beings that have shaped the country’s history and heritage.

​A Historic & Architectural Treasure

Beyond its exhibits, Safnahusid is an attraction in itself. The building, constructed between 1906 and 1908, was initially designed to house the National Library and National Archives. Visitors can explore the beautifully restored reading hall.

Over the years, the building has served multiple purposes, including as part of the National Museum of Iceland, before officially becoming part of the National Gallery of Iceland in 2021.

Designed for children and families, Safnahusid features interactive exhibits, games, and hands-on displays that make learning fun and engaging. Admission is free for children under 18, making it an excellent stop for families.

The museum also houses a cafe and a shop filled with art-inspired souvenirs, including posters, cards, and home decor featuring Icelandic artwork. Its central location next to the National Theater of Iceland makes it a perfect cultural stop during your city exploration.

• Location: Hverfisgata 15, 101 Reykjavik
• Focus: Icelandic art, natural history, and folklore
• Admission: Free for City Cardholders; free for children under 18
• Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10 AM–5 PM (Closed on Mondays during winter)
• Must-See: The interactive, thematic exhibitions span four floors, each exploring a different element—air, land, water, and natural principles.

3. Iceland’s Premier Fine Art Museum: The National Gallery of Iceland

The National Gallery of Iceland is the country’s leading institution for Icelandic and international visual art, housing an extensive collection that spans multiple artistic styles and time periods. With its main building situated by Tjornin Pond in Reykjavik, the gallery also oversees Safnahusid – House of Collections on Hverfisgata, offering visitors a broader view of Iceland’s artistic heritage.

A visit to the main building provides insight into the artists who shaped Iceland’s art scene alongside a carefully curated selection of international works.

The exhibitions change regularly, often focusing on individual artists, thematic explorations, or entire private collections donated to the museum. The National Gallery of Iceland's worth a repeat visit. No matter how many times you’ve been before, you will see something new every time!

​A Blend of History & Modern Art

Originally designed by Guðjón Samúelsson, Iceland’s most renowned state architect, the main building was once an icehouse before being transformed into a fine art museum. Its large windows and high ceilings create a distinct atmosphere, allowing light to interact beautifully with the artwork.

One of the gallery’s most iconic pieces is Glassrain (1984) by Icelandic artist Rúrí, a mesmerizing multimedia installation that plays with transparency, movement, and reflection. Rúrí’s work is well known throughout Iceland and the capital region, including her Rainbow installation outside Keflavik International Airport.

​A Hub for Art Education & Cultural Engagement

Beyond its exhibitions, the National Gallery of Iceland offers educational programs, guided tours, and lectures catering to visitors of all backgrounds. The gift shop features a selection of Icelandic art books, prints, and design items—a great stop if you’re looking for a unique souvenir.

As the epicenter of Icelandic fine art, this museum is a must-visit for those looking to experience the nation’s artistic evolution in a historically rich and beautifully designed setting.

• Location: Fríkirkjuvegur 7, 101 Reykjavik
• Focus: Icelandic and international fine art
• Admission: Free for City Cardholders
• Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10 AM–5 PM (Closed Mondays during winter)
• Must-See: Glassrain (1984) by Rúrí—a striking multimedia installation known for its interplay of light and movement

2. Surreal Landscapes & Icelandic Legends: Kjarvalsstadir – Kjarval Museum

Part of the Reykjavik Art Museum, Kjarvalsstadir is dedicated to Jóhannes S. Kjarval (1885-1972), one of Iceland’s most celebrated painters.

Kjarval is known for his dreamlike, intricate landscapes depicting Icelandic nature as a living, mystical force. His work was immensely influential, shaping both Icelandic visual art and cultural identity—so much so that he is featured on Iceland’s 2000 krona bill, and Björk dedicated a song to him on her debut album.

​Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Willem van de Poll. No edits made.

A Modernist Space Surrounded by Nature

The museum is an example of Nordic modernist architecture, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Klambratun Park, a popular green space in Reykjavik. This serene setting enhances the experience of viewing Kjarval’s nature-inspired works.

Inside, the museum is divided into two exhibition spaces:

• One gallery is dedicated to rotating exhibitions of influential Icelandic 20th-century artists, such as Hildur Hákonardóttir and Birgir Andrésson.

• The other gallery focuses on the works of Kjarval, showcasing his evolution as an artist—from his early sketches as a fisherman to the eclectic, multi-styled paintings influenced by his time at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts.

A Cultural and Family-Friendly Experience

Kjarvalsstadir is more than just a gallery—it’s a creative hub. Families can explore the Idea’s Lab, an interactive space where visitors create their own artwork. There’s also a gift shop offering Icelandic art-related souvenirs and books. The museum cafe, Klombar, serves lunch, coffee, and light refreshments, making it a perfect spot to unwind after exploring the exhibitions.

• Location: Flokagata 24, 105 Reykjavik
• Focus: Icelandic 20th-century art featuring Jóhannes S. Kjarval
• Admission: Free for City Cardholders
• Hours: Daily, 10 AM–5 PM; Last Thursday of every month, 10 AM–10 PM
• Must-See: The landscape paintings of Jóhannes S. Kjarval, which capture the surreal and mystical qualities of Icelandic nature

1. Contemporary Art in the Harbor District: Reykjavik Art Museum in Hafnarhus

At the top of our list is Hafnarhus, or “Harbour House,” the largest of the three Reykjavik Art Museum buildings, located near Reykjavik’s Old Harbour. The museum focuses on contemporary art, featuring established Icelandic artists, emerging talent, and international exhibits.

Originally built in the 1930s as a fishing warehouse, Hafnarhus underwent a careful renovation before reopening as a museum in 2000, preserving much of its industrial architectural character. It’s one of the city’s most dynamic art spaces, with six exhibition halls and an architecturally unique courtyard.