The Icelandic Punk Museum

The Icelandic Punk Museum, which opened its doors in 2016, celebrates Iceland’s rich musical past. It showcases memorabilia from legendary Icelandic punk bands like Fræbbblarnir, Utangarðsmenn (The Outsiders), and KUKL, one of Björk’s early bands. The exhibit also features items from Björk’s solo career and her other bands, such as Exodus and The Sugarcubes.

How to Get There

You’ll find the Icelandic Punk Museum at Bankastræti 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland. It’s a short walk from the city center, making it a convenient stop on any Reykjavik adventure.

Attractions

• Punk Memorabilia: The museum has a vast collection of punk memorabilia, including posters, photos, and other historical items.
• Interactive Displays: Visitors can try on leather jackets and other accessories to get the punk look.
• Instruments: Guests can play some of the instruments available, like guitars and drums.
• Graffiti and Art: The original bathroom stalls have graffiti that invites visitors to stick their heads in and listen to the ocean.
• Headphones: Listen to authentic Icelandic punk music through headphones hanging from the ceiling.
• Meet the Owner: Svarti Álfur, the owner and a veteran punk, welcomes visitors and shares stories about the music scene.

Ticket Information

The museum is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm. Tickets are priced at 1,500 ISK, which is about $10 USD.

Tips for Visiting

1. Plan Your Visit: Since the museum is small, it’s best to go early to avoid crowds.
2. Engage with the Owner: Svarti Álfur is full of knowledge about Icelandic punk history and loves to share stories.
3. Take Your Time: There’s a lot to see and learn, so don’t rush through the exhibits.
4. Be Prepared for a Unique Experience: The museum’s setting in an old public toilet adds to its charm, but it might not be for everyone.
5. Capture Memories: The quirky atmosphere and interactive displays make for great photos.

The Icelandic Punk Museum is a must-see for music history buffs, especially those intrigued by the punk scene. Its distinctive location and impressive collection of memorabilia offer an experience you won’t forget.