Reykjavík Harbor
Reykjavík Harbor is the marine heart of Iceland's capital that welcomes tourists and locals alike for historical walks, restaurant dining, and whale-watching tours. The harbor area is divided into three main piers: the Old Harbor (Miðbakki), Skarfabakki Terminal, and the New Harbor (Sundabakki). From the passengers of cruise ships to simple city walkers, Reykjavík Harbor represents a blend of history, culture, and marine adventure.
Old Harbor Miðbakki
Old Harbor, also known as Miðbakki, is the historic heart of Reykjavík Harbor and the most sight-worthy of the three piers. Formed in the early 20th century, it is no longer the heart of fishing and trade business in the city but has become today one of the prominent points of the city’s tourism, culture, and leisure. Today, boutiques, cafes, galleries, and restaurants fill the Old Harbor, making this area vibrant for locals and tourists alike. The area also includes several historic buildings and warehouses that have been repurposed, cleverly blending Reykjavík's maritime history with modern facilities and services.
It's from the Old Harbor in Reykjavík, Iceland, where you find beautiful views of Mount Esja and Faxaflói Bay. Whale-watching boats and puffin tours also run frequently from the Old Harbor.
Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal
Skarfabakki Harbor is one of the main cruise terminals in Reykjavík and is situated about 4 km (2.5 miles) from the town center. Being modern, the pier is very well-equipped to handle bigger cruise liners, given the state-of-the-art facilities that it boasts. The Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal is very convenient for those arriving by sea and planning shore excursions to nearby natural attractions, such as Þingvellir National Park, the Golden Circle or the Blue Lagoon. Finally, from this harbor, there are ferry departures to Viðey Island, which offers the opportunity to take peaceful walks and enjoy panoramic views over the capital.
New Harbor Sundabakki
Although less frequented by tourists, New Harbor is a key component in Reykjavík's total maritime infrastructure and forms an alternative point of docking for visiting cruise ships. New Harbor, or Sundabakki in Icelandic, is the third and newest pier in the harbor of Reykjavík. Intended for cruise ships and industrial ships, Sundabakki is situated a little west from the town center. An importance-functional area such as this is an integral part of Reykjavík's economy: cargo usage, fishing, and ship maintenance are carried out here.
Things to Do at Reykjavík Harbor
Old Harbor Miðbakki is definitely the most interesting pier of the three with plenty to see and do. You can enjoy a stroll along the water while stopping at local boutiques, cafes, galleries, and restaurants. There's whale watching from Reykjavík Harbor - one of the most popular adventures done regularly from the Old Harbor. On these tours, you will see minke whales, humpback whales, and even dolphins and porpoises.
This is usually followed by the question: is it possible to see whales from Reykjavík Harbor?
Long answer short, yes you might be able to see whales in the distance from Reykjavík Harbor. If you want to increase your chances of spotting a whale and maybe even see one up close, we recommend joining one of the many guided whale watching tours.
Besides its historic importance, the area around the harbor also includes the Whales of Iceland Museum, the Reykjavík Maritime Museum and the must-see Flyover Iceland Experience.
If you are arriving at Skarfabakki we offer a convenient pick up for cruise passengers for all our tours.
Tours from Reykjavík Harbor
Reykjavík Harbor is a base for some of the most exciting tours available in Iceland. Everything from whale-watching and puffin tours in summer to the ferry to Viðey Island.
If you’re one for adventure, then the Old Harbor is where all the Northern Lights boat adventures begin, especially in the winter months. You’ll sail into Faxaflói Bay, where you can see a dance of the aurora borealis above the sea.
Map of Reykjavík Harbor
Reykjavik Harbor is centrally located and it is easy to walk to the harbor from anywhere in the city. The Old Harbor (Miðbakki) is situated next to the city center while Skarfabakki is about 4 km from the northern side of the city.
- Old Harbor (Miðbakki) coordinates: 64°09'00.4"N 21°56'21.0"W
- Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal coordinates: 64°09'22.3"N 21°51'53.2"W
- New Harbor (Sundabakki): 64°08'57.5"N 21°51'10.8"W
Is it possible to see the Northern Lights from Reykjavík Harbor?
Yes, when the conditions are right during September to April you can see the northern lights from Reykjavík Harbor. However, light pollution from the city will always play a role in dampening the brightness of these magical lights. Your best bet is to drive out of town away from city lights. You can join a Northern Lights evening tour or even opt for a Private Northern Lights Tour that conveniently picks you up, taking you away from the city lights and out into prime no-light viewpoints, and drops you off at your desired location.