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 meticulously crafted to be 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, immersive atmosphere creates a sense of 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?

Absolutely. Several whale watching companies operate from the Old Harbour, 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.

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.

Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team

Location

Reykjavík

Fiskislóð 23–25 • Old Harbour area

Whales of Iceland is a large-scale marine exhibition located at Fiskislóð 23–25 near Reykjavík's Old Harbour. The museum houses 23 life-size models of every whale species found in Icelandic waters, suspended in a vast darkened hall designed to evoke the feeling of walking along 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 educates visitors on whale biology, migration, communication, and the ongoing challenges of marine conservation in the North Atlantic.

Safety + sourcing

Last updated: 2026-02-01

This guide is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Conditions in Iceland can change quickly—always check official alerts and road conditions before you drive or hike.

Sources to check

Admission

2,990 ISK

Adults. Discounts for children 7–15. Free for children under 7

Opening Hours

10:00–17:00

Daily year-round. Check website for holiday hours

Visit Duration

1–1.5 hours

Audio guide included. Interactive VR experience available

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

Immersive Atmosphere

Darkened exhibition hall with ambient ocean sounds creating the feeling of walking along 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

Getting There

Whales of Iceland is located at Fiskislóð 23–25, in the Grandi harbour district of Reykjavík. It is a 15-minute walk from the city centre along the Old Harbour 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, making it easy to combine visits.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is entirely indoors, making it an excellent choice on rainy or windy days. If combining with whale watching, visit the museum first to learn about the species you might spot. Summer offers the highest chance of whale sightings in Faxaflói Bay, but the museum is equally worthwhile year-round. Mornings tend to be quieter, especially outside peak summer season.

Planning help

Whales of Iceland FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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