All ethnology museums to visit in Iceland

Explore the cultural diversity and heritage at 8 ethnology museums in Iceland. These museums offer insights into the traditions, customs, and ways of life of various communities.

Are you interested in learning about different cultures and their histories? Here are the ethnology museums to visit in Iceland:

  1. National Museum of Iceland1

    National Museum of Iceland

     Reykjavik
    The main building of the National Museum of Iceland is structured into three floors. The first floor is dedicated to temporary exhibitions, the museum shop, and a café. The two upper floors house the permanent exhibition. The administrative offices of the museum are located in a separate building, just a few meters east of the main building.
  2. Herring Era Museum2

    Herring Era Museum

     Siglufjörður
    The Herring Era Museum, known as Síldarminjasafn Íslands in Icelandic, is one of the largest museums in the country. It offers visitors a glimpse into the significant role herring played in transforming Iceland from a nation of long-standing poverty to modern prosperity. The museum stands as a testament to this remarkable period in Iceland's history.
  3. 3

    Shark Museum

     Setberg
    This farm produces hákarl, which is fermented shark meat, a traditional local dish.
  4. 4

    Settlement Centre

     Borgarnes
    This place presents the history of Iceland and heroes of the Icelandic Sagas.
  5. The Settlement Exhibition5

    The Settlement Exhibition

     Reykjavik
    Reykjavík 871±2 is an exhibition located in the heart of Reykjavik, Iceland. This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to delve into the history and culture of the country, particularly during the Viking era. It is an integral part of the city's cultural landscape and a significant point of interest for visitors.
  6. The Culture House6

    The Culture House

     Reykjavik
    The Culture House, locally known as Safnahúsið, is a significant exhibition space located in Reykjavík, Iceland. It is home to the exhibition 'Points of View', which is a collection of pieces from various national museums and other cultural institutions. This exhibition provides a comprehensive insight into the country's rich cultural and historical heritage.
  7. The Árnesinga Folk Museum7

    The Árnesinga Folk Museum

     Eyrarbakki
    One of Iceland's oldest buildings has been turned into a museum with displays on folk crafts. A great chance to acquaint yourself with the culture.
  8. Húsavík Culture House8

    Húsavík Culture House

     Húsavík
    Safnahúsið, also known as the Culture House, is an exhibition space located in Reykjavík, Iceland. It is a significant cultural institution that houses various exhibitions drawn from national museums and other cultural institutions. It has been part of the National Museum of Iceland since 2013.