Best museums in Reykjavík for nature lovers

Reykjavík, Iceland’s vibrant capital, is a haven for nature lovers offering a range of museums that showcase the country’s extraordinary natural beauty, geological wonders and deep-rooted connection to the sea.

While Iceland’s landscapes are impressive, these museums provide a deeper look into what makes Iceland’s environment so unique, from glaciers and volcanoes to marine life and historical connections with the ocean.

Below, I highlight six must-visit museums in Reykjavík for nature lovers, each with its own unique focus on Iceland’s wild terrain, history, and biodiversity.

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Perlan – Wonders of Iceland

Perlan is a unique glass-domed museum set on Öskjuhlíð Hill. Inside, you can explore Iceland’s dynamic natural world with highlights including a real ice cave and interactive exhibitions on glaciers, volcanoes, and geothermal energy.

A 360-degree observation deck offers stunning views over Reykjavík, making it perfect if you want a deeper understanding of Iceland’s landscapes. The Áróra Planetarium also simulates the northern lights providing an immersive, indoor aurora experience.

It is the perfect place to visit when the weather is a little wild and you need to escape the elements. It has a nice restaurant and ice cream! The ticket prices below are if you book in advance. On the door is a little more expensive.

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Address: Varmahlíð 1, 105 Reykjavík
Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Tickets: Adults 5390 ISK; Children (6-17) 3390 ISK; Free for children under 6
Website: https://perlan.is/

Lava Show

Until recently, the Lava Show could only be seen in Vík, but now you can experience this fantastic show in Reykjavík. The shows take place throughout the day and are the only live display of lava in the world that isn’t an active volcano.

The Lava Show recreates a volcanic eruption by superheating real lava up to 1100°C (2000°F) and then pouring it into a viewing area. The guides during the show can explain the volcanic activity around Iceland and put the geological processes into context in an understandable format.

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Address: Fiskislóð 73, 101 Reykjavík
Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Tickets: Adults 5900 ISK; Children under 12 3500 ISK; Not recommended for under 4’s
Website: https://www.lavashow.com/

National Museum of Iceland (Þjóðminjasafn Íslands)

The National Museum provides a rich look at Iceland’s history, emphasising the country’s relationship with its natural surroundings. Exhibits feature artefacts from the Viking Age to the modern day and demonstrate how Icelanders have adapted to their environment over centuries.

From fishing gear to traditional clothing, the museum highlights the creativity and resilience of Icelandic culture in its often-harsh landscape.

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Address: Suðurgata 41, 101 Reykjavík
Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tickets: Adults 2500 ISK; Seniors and students 1200 ISK; Free for children under 18
Website: https://www.thjodminjasafn.is/english/

Reykjavík Maritime Museum

This museum celebrates Iceland’s maritime heritage, located on the edge of the historic Reykjavík harbour. The museum’s exhibits cover Iceland’s fishing history, its essential role in the economy, and local marine life over the last 150 years.

In the museum, you will learn about Icelandic fishing techniques, marine conservation efforts, and the historic vessels that once braved the North Atlantic.

At the Museum Pier, the Coast Guard ship Óðinn and the tugboat Magni are docked as part of the museum’s exhibits.

Óðinn is a former Coast Guard vessel and is celebrated for its role in the “Cod Wars”. Óðinn also participated in vital rescue operations in the North Atlantic and provided support during volcanic eruptions.

The tugboat Magni served Reykjavik’s harbour and was a reliable part of Iceland’s marine infrastructure, assisting larger ships in navigating the port.

Address: Grandagarður 8, 101 Reykjavík
Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tickets: Adults 2350 ISK; Free for children under 18
Website: https://borgarsogusafn.is/en/reykjavik-maritime-museum

Árbær Open Air Museum

This small open-air museum recreates rural Icelandic life, with historic turf houses and farm structures that showcase traditional architecture.

Some of the buildings were moved from the city centre Its on the edge of the city with the houses dotted around a number of fields and in the summer you may even have a chicken wander by.

Árbær gives a glimpse into Iceland’s past and a closer look at the connection Icelanders have had with the land for centuries.

Address: Kistuhylur 4, 110 Reykjavík
Opening Hours: Daily, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Summer: Daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Tickets: Adults 2350 ISK; Free for children under 18
Website: https://borgarsogusafn.is/en/arbaer-open-air-museum

Whales of Iceland Museum

Whales of Iceland is one of the world’s largest whale exhibitions, featuring life-size models of 23 whale species, from minke whales to majestic blue whales.

Interactive displays cover marine biology, whale conservation, and Iceland’s rich marine ecosystem. It’s a great way to spend a bit of time when the whale-watching boats can’t get out because of the weather.

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Address: Fiskislóð 23-25, 101 Reykjavík
Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tickets: Adults 4300 ISK; Children (7-15) 2150 ISK; Free for children under 7
Website: https://www.whalesoficeland.is/

Icelandic Phallological Museum

This is probably one of the most unusual things to do in Reykjavík, but the Icelandic Phallological Museum displays specimens from Icelandic mammals, including whales, seals, and other land animals, and is worth a visit.

While humorous, it offers valuable insights into Iceland’s biodiversity and promotes marine life conservation through a unique lens.

There are displays of preserved penis’, some that are more unusual than others – troll penis anyone? This museum is fairly family-friendly, although be prepared for lots of questions. The cafe here is lovely, and the gift shop is unique.

Address: Reykjastræti 4, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Tickets: Adults ISK3300; Seniors ISK2640; Under 14’s free
Website: https://www.phallus.is/

Reykjavík City Card

If you’re planning to explore Reykjavík and want to really experience the best Reykjavík museums, pools and even some nearby natural spots without worrying about individual tickets, the Reykjavík City Card is a brilliant option. You can choose from 24, 48, or 72-hour passes, and once you have one, you’re set with free access to some of the best cultural and natural sites in the city.

The pass gets you into places like the Reykjavík Maritime Museum, Árbær Open Air Museum, and the National Museum of Iceland. It also covers bus travel within Reykjavík, so it’s easy to get around, as well as the ferry to Viðey Island, a perfect spot for a scenic day trip where you can walk trails, see art, and enjoy views of the city from across the bay.

On top of all that, it includes entry to the city’s geothermal swimming pools, an essential Icelandic experience. You can grab a City Card at visitor centres or buy it online HERE and at most of the participating museums. It’s a fantastic deal, especially if you’re hoping to fully explore Reykjavík’s unique blend of nature and history without missing any highlights.