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National Museum of Iceland

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National Museum of Iceland

National Museum of Iceland

Founded in 1863, this institution documents the history and culture of Iceland. Visitors go here to view a collection of folk artifacts and historical exhibits that trace the country's development from the settlement period to the modern era.

Getting There

The museum is located within walking distance of the Reykjavík city centre. Depending on your starting point downtown, it typically takes 10 to 15 minutes to reach on foot.

Visit Duration

Allow approximately 2 to 3 hours to walk through the permanent exhibitions and view the primary collections.

When to Visit

The museum is an indoor attraction, making it a practical option during the rainy or cold seasons. It can get crowded during peak tourist months and during the midday hours; visiting early in the morning often provides a quieter experience.

Nearby Attractions

Because of its central location, the museum can be combined with other nearby sites. Within walking distance, you can visit:

  • Tjörnin (0.4km)
  • National Gallery of Iceland (0.5km)
  • Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík (0.5km)
  • Roman Catholic Diocese of Reykjavík (0.6km)

Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near National Museum of Iceland

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Good to visit alongside

Tjörnin

Nature

Tjörnin

Tjörnin is a shallow lake in Reykjavík that attracts a variety of migratory birds and waterfowl. In winter, the surface freezes over and people can be seen skating on it.

0.4 km away
National Gallery of Iceland

Museums & galleries

National Gallery of Iceland

The National Gallery of Iceland is an art museum in Reykjavík that houses a collection of Icelandic art. You can see works by leading Icelandic painters as well as pieces that offer a glimpse into traditional culture.

0.5 km away
Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík

Temples & religious sites

Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík

A Lutheran church independent of the Icelandic National Church, standing beside Lake Tjörnin in the city center. It's a pleasant spot to take in the modest church building along with the lakeside scenery.

0.5 km away
Roman Catholic Diocese of Reykjavík

Temples & religious sites

Roman Catholic Diocese of Reykjavík

The Diocese of Reykjavík oversees the Catholic Church throughout Iceland and is under the direct jurisdiction of the Holy See. It is a small community with just over ten thousand members.

0.6 km away
Landakotskirkja

Temples & religious sites

Landakotskirkja

Landakotskirkja is a Catholic cathedral in western Reykjavík, the only Catholic cathedral in Iceland. Mass is held in Icelandic, Polish, and English, reflecting the diverse congregation that gathers here.

0.6 km away
the Settlement Exhibition

Museums & galleries

the Settlement Exhibition

The Settlement Exhibition is a museum in downtown Reykjavík where you can see the oldest known Viking-age house ruins in Iceland preserved right where they were excavated. Artifacts found nearby are also on display, offering a close look at daily life in the early settlement period.

0.7 km away