For a city the size of Reykjavík, there’s definitely a lot going on (per capita, of course), and luckily for you, you’re holding (or scrolling through) an exhaustive list of hotspots worth your attention. Our cultural experts keep tabs on the town’s happenings, but not in a pretentious, professional way — they live here, so they are nothing but upfront about what’s a hit or a miss. 2025 was a great year for culture, with multiple new galleries popping up in Reykjavík, museums seriously levelling up, and some institutions going into hibernation. If you’re going to do anything cultural in Reykjavík, start with some of these.
Best Artist-Run Space
Kling & Bang
Grandagarður 20
In its 20-plus-year history, Kling & Bang has never failed to excite us, consistently showcasing provocative, non-mainstream art, and ensuring we never skip the third floor when at the Marshall House. “The best compliment an artist-run space can get is that it’s very professional,” one panellist says. That neatly sums up Kling & Bang.
Runner Up:
OPEN
Ánanaust 11
Founded by a group of friends and artists, OPEN started as a project-based initiative in the back of the artists’ studio. They needed a name and a sign, and the tackiest corner shop sign was the cheapest, hence the name. After a break, OPEN recently moved to Sóttvarnarhúsið on Ánanaust, and though the space is more closed than open, it fills a needed gap in the scene with thoughtful exhibitions. Definitely drop by when it’s open.
Runner Up:
Á milli
Ingólfsstræti 6
Tucked into a tiny space in Ingólfsstræti, collective-run project and exhibition space Á milli is the go-to spot for Reykjavík’s more experimental, underground, grassroots art. Known for offering generous terms to emerging artists, it pushes for a more diverse exhibition scene, showcasing everything from traditional media to works that defy definition. “The only downside is their exhibitions often last two days,” one panellist notes. “They’re over before I can check them out.”
Previous Winners:
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