The Old Harbour

Overview

The Old Harbour (Gamla Höfnin) serves as Reykjavík's maritime heart and one of its most dynamic districts. This working harbour, dating from 1913, has transformed from a purely industrial port into a vibrant waterfront quarter that seamlessly blends commercial fishing operations with tourism, dining, and cultural attractions. Located on Reykjavík's northern shore, the harbour encompasses several piers and quays that extend into Faxaflói Bay, offering unobstructed views towards Mount Esja and the Reykjanes Peninsula.

What distinguishes the Old Harbour from other Reykjavík districts is its authentic maritime character preserved alongside modern development. Fishing vessels still dock here daily, whilst converted warehouses house restaurants, galleries, and tour operators. The area has become synonymous with whale watching in Iceland, with multiple operators launching expeditions from its piers throughout the year. The harbour's industrial buildings provide canvases for some of Reykjavík's most striking street art, creating an unexpected urban gallery against the backdrop of working boats and fishing gear.

The district represents Reykjavík's successful urban regeneration, maintaining its function as a working port whilst becoming a cultural and gastronomic destination. Its proximity to the city centre, combined with its maritime atmosphere and mountain views, makes it an essential component of any Reykjavík visit.

Quick Facts

**GPS Coordinates:** 64.1511°N, 21.9436°W

**Entry Fee:** Free access to harbour area

**Opening Hours:** Public areas accessible 24/7; individual businesses vary

**Best Time to Visit:** May to September for whale watching; year-round for dining and culture

**Access Level:** Easy; flat surfaces, wheelchair accessible

**Nearest Town:** Reykjavík city centre (1.5km)

**Walking Time from City Centre:** 15-20 minutes

How to Get There

Driving

From Reykjavík city centre, head north on Lækjargata towards the harbour. Turn right onto Geirsgata, which runs directly along the waterfront to the Old Harbour. The journey covers approximately 1.5km and takes 5-7 minutes depending on city traffic. Follow signs for "Gamla Höfnin" or "Whale Watching" which clearly direct visitors to the harbour district.

Alternative route via Hringbraut: Take Hringbraut west from the city centre, turn right onto Ránargata, then left onto Geirsgata. This route avoids central Reykjavík traffic during busy periods.

Parking

Several parking options serve the Old Harbour area. The main harbour car park on Geirsgata offers approximately 100 spaces with paid parking at 200 ISK per hour (roughly €1.40) from 08:00-18:00 Monday to Friday, free at weekends and evenings. Additional parking exists along Mýrargata and near Grandi district, typically free but with 2-3 hour time limits. Street parking fills quickly during summer months, particularly when cruise ships dock.

Access

The harbour area requires no walking from parking areas, with flat, paved surfaces throughout. All main piers and promenades are wheelchair accessible. The harborfront walkway extends for approximately 800 metres, connecting all major attractions within the district.

What to See and Do

Whale watching dominates the Old Harbour's tourism offerings, with operators including Elding and Special Tours departing from Pier 7 and adjacent docks. Tours run year-round, with summer expeditions typically lasting 3-3.5 hours and winter tours 2.5-3 hours. Minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, and harbour porpoises appear regularly, whilst humpback whales visit during summer months.

The harbour's dining scene centres on several acclaimed restaurants housed in converted warehouses. Forréttabarinn occupies a former fish processing facility, serving contemporary Icelandic cuisine with harbour views. Seafood specialists Sægreifinn (The Sea Baron) operates from a green corrugated building on Geirsgata, famous for its lobster soup and grilled fish skewers.

Street art transforms many harbour buildings into outdoor galleries. The most significant pieces include murals on Marshallhúsið (The Marshall House) and various warehouse walls along Grandagarður. The art ranges from traditional Icelandic motifs to contemporary abstract works, with new pieces appearing regularly during summer months.

The Marshall House itself serves as a contemporary art centre, featuring rotating exhibitions of Icelandic and international artists. The building also houses studios, workshops, and the Living Art Museum. Maritime heritage appears at the Reykjavík Maritime Museum on Grandagarður, displaying Iceland's fishing and seafaring history in a former fish freezing plant.

Working harbour activities provide authentic atmosphere, with fishing vessels unloading catches during morning hours (typically 06:00-10:00). The fish market operates from early morning, supplying Reykjavík's restaurants with fresh seafood.

Best Time to Visit

**May to September** represents peak season for whale watching, with longest daylight hours and calmest sea conditions. Minke whales and dolphins appear most frequently during these months. Restaurant terraces and outdoor seating operate fully, and street art tours run regularly.

**October to April** offers fewer crowds and atmospheric winter harbour scenes. Whale watching continues with shorter tours focusing on resident species. Northern lights occasionally appear over the harbour during clear winter nights. Some outdoor dining areas close, but indoor venues maintain full operations.

**June to August** brings midnight sun effects and warmest weather, but also peak tourist numbers. Advance booking essential for whale watching tours and popular restaurants. Parking becomes most challenging during these months.

**November to March** provides authentic local atmosphere with working harbour activities most visible. Harsh weather can affect whale watching schedules, but indoor attractions remain accessible.

Safety

The Old Harbour presents minimal safety risks due to its developed infrastructure and regular maintenance. Wet pier surfaces can become slippery during rain; appropriate footwear recommended. Strong winds occasionally affect the waterfront, particularly during winter storms—check weather conditions before visiting.

Whale watching tours operate in various sea conditions, but rough weather may cause motion sickness. Tour operators provide safety briefings and equipment. Tours occasionally cancel during severe weather; flexible scheduling advised.

The harbour area is well-lit and regularly patrolled, making evening visits safe. However, be aware of vehicle traffic along Geirsgata, particularly during morning fish market hours when commercial vehicles frequent the area.

Nearby Places

**Harpa Concert Hall** (800m southeast) - Reykjavík's architectural landmark featuring distinctive glass facade and hosting concerts, conferences, and cultural events.

**Reykjavík City Centre** (1.5km south) - Historic downtown area encompassing Laugavegur shopping street, Hallgrímskirkja church, and numerous restaurants and bars.

**Grandi District** (500m west) - Neighbouring creative quarter housing galleries, design studios, and the Saga Museum, connected to the Old Harbour via waterfront walkway.

**Skerjafjörður Nature Reserve** (2km southwest) - Coastal wetlands important for birdwatching, particularly during migration seasons, accessible via coastal walking path.

**Viðey Island** (ferry from Old Harbour) - Historic island featuring Yoko Ono's Imagine Peace Tower, archaeological sites, and walking trails, with regular ferry service from May to September.

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