Old Harbour

Overview

The Old Harbour (Gamla höfnin) is Reykjavík's rejuvenated waterfront district, where working fishing boats moor alongside whale-watching vessels, trendy restaurants, and cultural attractions. It offers a genuine slice of Iceland's maritime life steps from downtown.

Highlights

• Whale Watching Departures: Multiple operators run daily tours into Faxaflói Bay from the harbour piers.
• Harbourside Walk: Stroll past colourful fishing boats, the Harpa concert hall, and the Grandi district.
• Fresh Seafood: Several harbourside restaurants serve the day's catch directly from the boats.

History

Built in the early 20th century as Reykjavík's primary commercial fishing port, the harbour gradually lost its industrial role as larger trawlers moved to Sundahöfn. Since the 2000s it has been reinvented as a mixed cultural and culinary quarter.

Visitor Tips

• Duration: 1–2 hours for a walkabout.
• Puffins: In summer (May–August), puffin-viewing boat trips depart from the harbour to Akurey and Lundey islands.
• Combine With: Harpa, the Maritime Museum, and the Grandi area.