Reykjavík Old Harbour

Background

History & Background

Reykjavík Harbour was constructed in major stages between 1913 and 1917, improving shipping, fishing and trading infrastructure. The Old Harbour played a central role in the city’s maritime economy. In recent decades its waterfront and neighbouring Grandi district have developed restaurants, museums and visitor experiences while retaining working harbour activities.

Reykjavík Old Harbour is a lively waterfront district where Iceland’s maritime heritage meets cafés, restaurants, museums and ocean excursions. The harbour’s development in 1913–1917 helped reshape the city’s fishing and trading infrastructure, and it remains an active port area today. Popular activities include walking along the waterfront, watching working boats and booking **whale-watching cruises** departing into Faxaflói Bay. Nearby Grandi houses the Reykjavík Maritime Museum, Whales of Iceland, FlyOver Iceland and other visitor attractions. Each ticketed venue or tour has its own schedule and prices. The **public harbour promenade is free to visit** and has no single opening time. Commercial activities, museums, restaurants and tour departures operate independently. Allow one to two hours for a general stroll, more for a museum or boat trip. The harbour has active quays and water edges: obey signage and barriers, avoid restricted workspaces, and watch your footing in rain, snow or strong wind. Harpa and central Reykjavík are nearby on foot, making the Old Harbour a convenient addition to a city walking route.