Old Harbor is a neighborhood on the waterfront of Reykjavik, Iceland, and a pleasant place to spend an unhurried hour or two. It is a stroll rather than a sight to tick off: the appeal lies in walking along the water and taking in the setting.
What to expect
- Colorful boats moored along the harbor, which give the area much of its character
- Mountains rising behind the water, forming a striking backdrop
- Local fishing boats coming and going, so there is often something happening on the water
The harbor is a good spot for photographs, whether you are after the boats in the foreground, the mountains beyond, or simply the light on the water. Many visitors find that watching the fishing vessels arrive and leave is as engaging as any planned activity.
Making the most of a visit
Old Harbor works well as part of a walk through the city, since it sits on the waterfront and is easy to combine with time spent exploring Reykjavik on foot. Allow a relaxed pace, bring a camera, and take a moment simply to look out over the water. It suits anyone who enjoys harbor scenes and the everyday rhythm of a working waterfront.