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Museums & galleries

National Gallery of Iceland

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National Gallery of Iceland

National Gallery of Iceland

The National Gallery of Iceland is an art museum in Reykjavík that houses a collection of works by the country's leading artists. The exhibits span from traditional to contemporary pieces, providing a visual record of Iceland's culture and artistic evolution. Travelers visit this institution to understand the intersection of Icelandic identity and visual art.

Getting There

The museum is located within the downtown area of Reykjavík. From the city center, it is accessible via a short walk of approximately 5 to 10 minutes, depending on your starting point.

Duration of Visit

Depending on the number of temporary exhibitions and the depth of the permanent collection on display, visitors should allow between 2 and 3 hours to view the galleries.

When to Visit

The museum can get crowded during the peak summer tourist season. Visiting during weekday mornings typically offers a quieter experience. There are no specific seasonal closures, but checking for current exhibition rotations is recommended for those interested in specific art periods.

Nearby Attractions

The gallery is centrally located, making it easy to combine with other nearby sites on foot:

  • Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík: 0km
  • Tjörnin: 0.2km
  • Reykjavík Cathedral: 0.3km
  • Austurvöllur: 0.3km

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 Gallery of Iceland

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National Gallery of Iceland Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

2 nights, 3 days

Reykjavík 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

A 3-day route through Reykjavík grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

3 nights, 4 days

Reykjavík 4-Day Itinerary (3 Nights)

A 4-day route through Reykjavík grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

Good to visit alongside

Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík

Temples & religious sites

Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík

Fríkirkjan is a Lutheran church operating independently of the Icelandic National Church, standing on the shore of Lake Tjörnin in central Reykjavík. It's a nice stop to combine with a walk around the lake.

0.0 km away
Tjörnin

Nature

Tjörnin

Tjörnin is a shallow lake in downtown Reykjavík that serves as a haven for many kinds of birds. In winter its surface freezes over and fills with people out skating.

0.2 km away
Reykjavík Cathedral

Temples & religious sites

Reykjavík Cathedral

Reykjavík Cathedral is the principal church of Iceland's Lutheran denomination, standing on Austurvöllur Square in Reykjavík's old town. Next to the parliament building, it is well known for the tradition of holding a mass here each time parliament opens.

0.3 km away
Austurvöllur

Parks & gardens

Austurvöllur

Austurvöllur is a square popular with Reykjavík locals, surrounded by cafés that make it a pleasant spot to relax on a sunny day. Located next to the Parliament House, it also frequently hosts rallies large and small.

0.3 km away
the Settlement Exhibition

Museums & galleries

the Settlement Exhibition

Run by the Reykjavík City Museum, this exhibition displays Iceland's oldest known Viking longhouse ruins right where they were excavated. Other artifacts unearthed around the city are also on display.

0.4 km away
National Theatre of Iceland

Culture & venues

National Theatre of Iceland

Iceland's national theatre in Reykjavik, which opened in 1950. It's the place to experience the country's foremost performing arts.

0.5 km away