Admission
See current tickets
Compare adult, child and family options on the operator’s site
Whales of Iceland: Life-Size Whale Exhibition in Reykjavík
One of Europe's largest whale exhibitions, featuring 23 life-size models of every whale species found in Icelandic waters.
Location
Reykjavík
Fiskislóð 23–25 • Old Harbor area
Quick Answer
Whales of Iceland at Reykjavík's Old Harbor displays 23 life-size whale models, led by a 25-meter blue whale. Audio guide included; plan 1-1.5 hours.
Whales of Iceland is a large-scale marine exhibition located at Fiskislóð 23–25 near Reykjavík's Old Harbor. The museum houses 23 life-size models of every whale species found in Icelandic waters, suspended in a darkened hall meant to feel like the ocean floor. The centerpiece is a 25-meter blue whale model, the largest animal ever to have lived. With multilingual audio guides and interactive displays, the exhibition covers whale biology, migration, communication, and marine conservation in the North Atlantic.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
This guide is a travel-planning summary, not emergency guidance. Conditions in Iceland can change quickly; check official alerts, roads, and weather before driving, hiking, or booking around volatile conditions.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official sources to check
Opening Hours
10:00–17:00
Operator lists daily opening, including holidays; confirm your date
Visit Duration
1–1.5 hours
Planning estimate; add time if you want a film screening
What to Expect
Blue Whale Model
A 25-meter life-size model of a blue whale, the largest animal ever to have lived on Earth
23 Whale Species
Every species found in Icelandic waters represented as anatomically accurate life-size models
Ocean-Floor Setting
Darkened exhibition hall with ambient ocean sounds, laid out to feel like the seabed
Audio Guide
Multilingual audio guide included with admission, covering each species in detail
Interactive Displays
Touchscreens and stations where visitors can learn about whale songs, echolocation, and migration
VR Whale Encounter
Optional virtual reality experience swimming alongside whales in Icelandic waters
Time your visit around a film
The Fin Whale Theatre schedule gives the museum a useful timing anchor. On September 10, 2026, the operator listed Whale Wisdom at 10:20 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2:40 p.m.; Sonic Sea at 11:20 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:40 p.m. Screenings are included with admission; the operator notes that lectures or events can change the schedule. Choose the film you want before setting your arrival time instead of assuming that a short walk through the models covers the whole visit.
Compare the operator’s current ticket options for your group. The operator lists daily opening including holidays. If planning a holiday visit, confirm directly with the museum: some directory listings still give different holiday information.
Getting There
Whales of Iceland is located at Fiskislóð 23–25, in the Grandi harbor district of Reykjavík. It is a 15-minute walk from the city centre along the Old Harbor waterfront, or a short drive with free parking available on site. The Grandi area also hosts the Marshall House art centre, Saga Museum, and several restaurants, so visits are easy to combine.
Best Time to Visit
The museum is entirely indoors, so it is a good choice on rainy or windy days. If combining with whale watching, visit the museum first to learn about the species you might spot. The models and films offer an indoor activity even when you do not take a boat trip.
Planning help
Whales of Iceland FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
How many whale models are in the exhibition?
The museum features 23 life-size models representing all the whale species found in Icelandic waters. The largest is a blue whale model measuring over 25 meters long. Each model is anatomically accurate.
Is Whales of Iceland suitable for young children?
Yes, the museum is very family-friendly. Children are fascinated by the sheer scale of the life-size models. There is an interactive area where kids can learn about whale sounds and echolocation. The dimly lit hall is meant to feel like walking on the ocean floor.
Are audio guides available?
Yes, audio guides are included with admission and available in multiple languages including English, Icelandic, German, French, and Chinese. The guide provides detailed information about each species, their behaviors, migration patterns, and conservation status.
Can I combine this with a whale watching tour?
Yes. Several whale watching companies operate from the Old Harbor, just a short walk from the museum. Visiting the museum before a whale watching tour helps you identify the species you might see. Some operators offer combination tickets.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.