Set right along the harbor of Keflavik, Duus Museum invites you into a series of beautifully restored buildings that once served the town’s fishing industry.
Today, the halls hold rotating art exhibitions, handcrafted model ships, and personal stories from Keflavik’s past. As the official Art and Cultural Center of the Reykjanes Peninsula, it plays a central role in showcasing the region’s creative and historical heritage.
Whether you're on a short stopover, joining Reykjanes tours, or exploring the best things to do in Keflavik, Duus Museum offers a relaxed, meaningful look into local art and history. It’s an easy, enriching stop that adds real depth to any visit to this seaside town.
Key Takeaways
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Type: Art and cultural center housed in restored harbor buildings
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Location: Keflavik, Southwest Iceland, around 10 minutes from Keflavik International Airport
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Unique for: Local art exhibitions, maritime history, handcrafted model ships
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Ideal for: Travelers with layovers, art and history lovers, those exploring Reykjanes Peninsula
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Bonus: Easy access to coastal walks, nearby attractions like Viking World and Blue Lagoon
Exhibition Halls at Duus Museum
Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Steinninn. No edits made.
Duus Museum is not just a single gallery. It's a cultural complex made up of several unique halls, each with its own story to tell.
From art and design to geology and sea history, here’s what you can discover inside.
Reykjanes Art Museum (Art Hall)
Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Steinninn. No edits made.
This bright and modern gallery hosts five thoughtfully curated exhibitions each year, spotlighting some of Iceland’s most dynamic contemporary artists. Expect to see everything from bold paintings and striking photography to mixed-media installations that challenge and inspire.
Recent shows have featured Ívar Valgarðsson, whose abstract works often explore structure and space, and Kristinn Már Pálmason, known for his expressive compositions that tap into personal and collective memory.
Exhibitions often reflect Iceland’s landscape, social issues, and creative spirit. If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with an artist talk or guided tour. Check the latest schedule here.
The Pit
Located in one of the newer concrete buildings adjacent to the original Duus complex, The Pit offers a focused look at design and craftsmanship through rotating exhibitions. This hall once stood where the old Longuskurar (Long Sheds) were used for fish processing and storage.
Today, the space celebrates handmade artistry in materials like ceramics, textiles, and wood, often spotlighting local designers or guest curators. Though technically not part of the original Duus buildings, The Pit continues the area's working legacy, now through creativity and design.
The Movie Hall
Originally built in 1890, this historic building first served the fishing industry before briefly becoming one of Iceland’s earliest cinemas in 1927. Though it only operated as a movie house for a few years, its cinematic legacy remains part of local memory.
After returning to industrial use for decades, the hall was fully restored in 2006 and now functions as a venue for cultural events, exhibitions, and concerts. Its vintage character and layered history make it a distinctive space to experience live music, storytelling nights, or seasonal art shows.
Keflavik Maritime Center (Harbour House)
Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Steinninn. No edits made.
Housed in the historic Harbour House, the Maritime Center offers a detailed look into the region’s seafaring past. The exhibition features meticulously crafted model ships, vintage navigation equipment, and archival photographs that document life along the Reykjanes coast.
As the oldest buildings in the Duus Museum complex, Harbour House adds authenticity to the experience. The museum highlights the pivotal role of fishing and maritime trade in the development of Keflavik, with personal stories and historical artifacts that bring the town’s coastal heritage to life.
Reykjanes Geopark Visitor Center (Harbour House)
Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Steinninn. No edits made.
This hall gives you a fascinating intro to the wild, volcanic landscape of the Reykjanes Peninsula, a UNESCO Global Geopark.
Through interactive displays and visual storytelling, you'll learn how fire, ice, and time shaped this rugged corner of Iceland. It’s especially great for visitors planning to explore nearby sights like the Bridge Between Continents, Reykjanesviti Lighthouse, or the geothermal areas of Gunnuhver and Krysuvik.
The Parlour Room (Harbour House)
This cozy, adaptable space is used for temporary exhibitions, literary events, and smaller community gatherings. It’s an intimate venue where locals and travelers often cross paths, whether through a photo show, an author reading, or a pop-up installation.
The Attic (Harbour House)
Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Steinninn. No edits made.
Tucked into the upper floor of the Harbour House, The Attic offers a more atmospheric setting for exhibits and gatherings. It’s a quiet, authentic space that is occasionally used for lectures or smaller shows.
With its original woodwork and preserved details, it feels like a time capsule from Keflavik’s early fishing era. Visitors can view relics from the early years of the house itself.
Visitor Information for Duus Museum
Before you go, here’s what you need to know to make the most of your trip to Duus Museum.
Duus Museum Address
Opening Hours and Admission
Duus Museum operates year-round, with the following opening hours:
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Tuesday to Sunday: 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
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Monday: Closed
In summer (June, July, and August), the museum has extended hours during weekdays:
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Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
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Saturday to Sunday: 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
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Monday: Closed
Admission to Duus Museum is as follows:
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Adults: ISK 1500
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Seniors and students: ISK 1200
Children under 18 and individuals with disabilities enjoy free entrance, making it an accessible cultural stop for families and inclusive for all visitors.
Facilities and Accessibility at Duus Museum
Located next to Hotel Duus and just steps from the harbor, the museum complex includes several amenities to enhance your experience.
Kaffi Duus, the onsite cafe, offers a cozy setting with harbor views, perfect for enjoying coffee, lunch, or dinner before or after exploring the exhibits. There is also ample free parking outside, ideal for visitors arriving by car or on self-drive tours in Iceland.
For visitors with mobility needs, the entire ground floor—including the Harbour House and main exhibition areas—is wheelchair accessible.
How To Get to Duus Museum
Getting to Duus Museum is simple, whether you're staying in Keflavik, arriving from Reykjavik, or just on a long layover at Keflavik International Airport.
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From the airport: If you’re coming from the airport, Duus Museum is just 10 minutes away by taxi or Keflavik rental cars. For those driving, follow Route 41 (Reykjanesbraut) toward Keflavik town center. Turn right onto Hafnargata, then left onto Duusgata.
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By car: If you’re renting a car in Reykjavik, drive for about an hour along Route 41 to reach Keflavik town.
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By public transport: Use the Straeto bus service to travel from Reykjavik to Keflavik. Stops are at the main bus terminal in Keflavik, which is within walking distance of Duus Museum. The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
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On foot: If you're staying in downtown Keflavik, the museum is just a pleasant 5–10 minute walk along the harbor.
Tips for Visiting Duus Museum
To make the most of your visit to Duus Museum in Keflavík, a bit of planning goes a long way. Here are some practical tips to help you enjoy your experience:
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Start early to enjoy a quieter experience and fully explore the galleries.
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Check the museum’s website or social media for ongoing exhibitions, events, or special programs during your visit.
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Dress in layers, as the weather in Keflavik can change quickly, especially if you’re planning to walk along the harbor afterward.
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Relax at Kaffi Duus, the onsite cafe with sea views — perfect for a coffee or meal before heading out.
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Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Giantess in the Mountain, local coastal walks, or Reykjanes tours for a fuller experience of the area.
Attractions Near Duus Museum and Beyond Keflavik
There’s more to see just steps from the museum, making it easy to turn your visit into a half- or full-day itinerary in Keflavik.
Giantess in the Mountain (Skessuhellir)
Just a short stroll from Duus Museum, Giantess in the Mountain is a quirky cave installation based on a children’s book character—a gentle giantess who lives by the sea. Inside the cave, you’ll find a life-sized sculpture in a whimsical, dimly lit setting that’s especially popular with kids (and Instagrammers).
Viking World Museum
A 10-minute drive from Duus Museum, Viking World is home to the “Islendingur,” a full-scale Viking ship replica that actually sailed to North America. The museum explores Norse mythology, the Viking Age, and early exploration, with its modern glass building offering sweeping views of Faxafloi Bay.
Reykjanesbaer Coastal Path
This scenic walking path hugs the shoreline near Duus Museum. It’s perfect for a relaxing stroll before or after your museum visit. Along the route, you’ll find sculptures, benches, and panoramic views of the bay.
Reykjanes Peninsula
If you’re ready to explore beyond Keflavík, the top things to do on the Reykjanes Peninsula include striking natural sights, many just a short drive from Duus Museum.
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Bridge Between Continents (around 14 miles / 22 km): Stand between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates at this symbolic footbridge.
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Gunnuhver Hot Springs (around 18 miles / 29 km): This bubbling geothermal area features steaming vents and mud pools in a wild, otherworldly landscape. Wooden walkways offer safe access to the site.
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Reykjanesviti Lighthouse (around 18 miles / 29 km): Iceland’s oldest lighthouse stands near dramatic sea cliffs, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and seabird spotting.
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Blue Lagoon (13 miles / 21 km): Just a 25-minute drive from Duus Museum, this world-famous geothermal spa is ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring. Consider booking Blue Lagoon tours in advance for a convenient, stress-free experience.
Where To Stay Near Duus Museum
Whether you’re on a short layover or planning to explore the wider Reykjanes Peninsula, the top hotels and accommodations in Keflavik offer convenient access to both the airport and Duus Museum. You’ll find cozy guesthouses, budget hostels, and modern hotels with airport shuttles.
Duus Hotel stands out for its harbor-front location just steps from Duus Museum, offering comfortable rooms, sea views, and an easy walk to local restaurants and attractions.
Staying in hotels near Keflavik Airport is especially convenient if you have an early departure or late arrival.
Add Duus Museum to Your Iceland Itinerary Today
Duus Museum is one of the best places to visit in Keflavik for anyone interested in Iceland’s art, history, and maritime culture. With its mix of exhibitions, restored harbor buildings, and scenic waterfront setting, it offers a meaningful stop whether you’re on a short layover or spending more time in the region.
The museum’s close location to the airport makes it a perfect cultural detour, while its connection to the wider Reykjanes Peninsula makes it a natural starting point for deeper exploration.
