Whales of Iceland Museum Entry Tickets with Audio Guide Reykjavik

Whales of Iceland in Reykjavik's Old Harbour

Whales of Iceland is a whale museum in the Grandi area of Reykjavik's Old Harbour, described as the largest whale museum in Europe. More than 25 life-sized models represent every species of whale recorded in Icelandic waters, hanging and standing at their true size so that you feel how big these animals really are.

If you are asking whether Whales of Iceland is worth visiting, it is one of the most popular family attractions in Reykjavik because it gives you a safe, close view of animals that are hard to see well from a boat. A Whales of Iceland ticket is also a good choice when the weather is poor and you want to stay indoors.

The life-size whale models

The models include the great blue whale, the largest animal on Earth, as well as sperm whales, fin whales, humpbacks, orcas and the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale. Walking between them, you notice details such as fins, teeth and skin that are difficult to see at sea.

Underwater sounds play through the exhibition, and information boards explain the size, diet and habits of each species. The models are arranged so that you can compare a small dolphin with a giant baleen whale, which makes the differences between whale families easy for children to understand.

Interactive exhibits, documentaries and the audio guide

Interactive displays let visitors explore whale anatomy and behaviour, and the audio guide, included with your ticket, gives more detail in many languages, including English. Bring your own headphones if you prefer to listen through them.

Documentaries are shown throughout the day in the Fin Whale Theatre, and they are included in the price of admission. The films cover whale conservation, research and other fascinating subjects, so you can add real depth to your visit by choosing one to watch between your walks through the models and the interactive displays.

Planning your visit: getting there and combining with whale watching

The museum is in the Grandi area of the Old Harbour, a short walk from the boat-tour piers and easy to reach from the city centre on foot or by bus. Wi-Fi and parking are available on site, and a cafe serves refreshments; food and drinks are not part of the ticket. Plan around one to two hours.

Many visitors combine the museum with a whale-watching tour, which is booked separately, or with a stroll along the harbour. Adults aged 16 and over use the adult ticket, children aged 7 to 15 have their own category and children of 6 and under are listed as infants in the booking panel. Opening hours change by season, so check the panel.