The Old Harbour, including the Grandi area, is Reykjavik's revitalised waterfront, home to departure points for whale-watching and other boat tours. Converted warehouses now hold casual eateries, ice cream spots and small museums, giving it an airy, open feel while staying an easy walk from the centre.
You're right on the water with boats, working docks and views across to the mountains, and the redeveloped Grandi warehouses offer food halls and galleries. It's more spacious and daytime-oriented than the downtown strip, calmer in the evening, and a pleasant flat stroll along the shore into the core.
Getting around
The city centre and Austurvöllur are roughly a 10–15 minute walk, with Hallgrímskirkja a bit further uphill beyond that. Airport coaches to Keflavík (KEF) leave from the central terminal a short distance away, about 45–50 minutes to the airport.
Before you book this area
- Vibe
- Open, breezy waterfront with tour boats, museums and casual dining.
- Tours
- Whale-watching and puffin boats depart directly from the harbour here.
- Watch out for
- It can feel exposed and windy by the water, and the evening is quieter than the main streets.
Frequently asked
Is Grandi good if I want to do a whale-watching trip?
Yes — the tour boats depart from this harbour, so staying nearby means a very short walk to your morning departure.
How far is it into downtown?
About 10–15 minutes on foot along the waterfront, so you get a calmer base while staying close to the action.
Comparing areas? See the full Reykjavik area guide →
An independent guide to Old Harbour (Grandi), Reykjavik — honest orientation, no invented data.