National Museum of Iceland

The Basics

Among the museum’s extensive collection are various weapons, drinking horns, and a bronzed figure of Thor. Its most prized possession, however, is a 13th-century door that features intricate medieval carvings depicting scenes from the legendary 12th-century knight’s taleLe Chevalier au Lion. The museum goes into some depth covering the period from the 1600s to today, detailing how Iceland long struggled under foreign rule before finally gaining independence in the 20th century. Some of the most impactful displays are simple household items conveying everyday life during the country’s toughest times.

A private sightseeing tour that can be customized to your interests can include a visit to the National Museum of Iceland.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The National Museum of Iceland is a must-visit for those with an interest in history.

• The museum’s free smartphone audio guide provides a wealth of illuminating insights.

• Children under 18 and people with disabilities get free entrance.

• Your entrance ticket also gets you into the Culture House, home of the National Library and Archives.

• The on-site Cafe Kaffitar serves light refreshments, coffee, and Icelandic delicacies.

• The Museum Shop sells books on Icelandic culture and handcrafted souvenirs.

How to Get There

The museum is located at the top of a gentle hill, around a 10-minute walk from downtown Reykjavik. Public bus numbers 1, 3, 6, 11, 12, and 14 stop in front of or near the museum, and it is also a stop on the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour.

When to Get There

The National Museum is open every day from 10am to 5pm. From September through April it is closed on Mondays. The museum is also closed on Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. If you visit on a Saturday morning, you can join a free 45-minute guided tour of the “Making of a Nation” exhibition.

The Yule Lads

Each December, the Yule Lads come to the National Museum of Iceland to visit and entertain children. The Yule Lads are a strong tradition in Icelandic folklore: They are 13 boys believed to enter homes over the 13 days leading up to Christmas to leave gifts in well-behaved children’s shoes. The lads were originally believed to be mischievous, hence their nicknames such as “sausage swiper” and “door slammer.”

Ways to explore

The National Museum of Iceland is included in the Reykjavík City Card, along with nearby cultural institutions such as the Settlement Exhibition and Reykjavík Maritime Museum. Get the card to skip the lines at the city’s top museums—and gain free entry to Reykjavik’s geothermal pools after a day of sightseeing.

For easy transportation to the museum and other attractions, book a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Upon arrival at the museum, get the free audio guide for help navigating the comprehensive Making of a Nation exhibition; alternatively, reserve a guided tour with a staff member.

Accessibility

The National Museum of Iceland is wheelchair accessible, with designated parking and elevators to the upper floors. Wheelchairs are available at reception, and admission is free for disabled visitors.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Headphones for the audio guide, water bottle

What to wear

The museum is indoors, but it’s always best to wear closed-toe walking shoes and warm clothing in Reykjavík, where it’s cold year-round.

Not allowed

Flash photography, bulky bags and objects

Amenities

Audio guides, café, gift shop, parking

Address

Located on the southwest side of Tjörnin, the National Museum of Iceland is within a 15-minute walk of the city harbor and most attractions in central Reykjavík. You can also get there by public or hop-on hop-off tour bus.

Driving

The museum is an approximately 5-minute drive from Reykjavík Airport. Take Suðurgata toward the city center, then park for free at the museum. You can also book a taxi using the Hopp or Hreyfill apps.

Public transportation

There are multiple ways to reach the museum via the Strætó public bus system. Routes 1, 2, 3, 6, 11, and 12 run through central Reykjavík and stop at Háskóli Íslands, a short walk from the museum.

Best times to visit

Aim to visit the museum between 11am–4pm, when the café is open for a coffee break.

Best days to visit

The museum is busiest on weekends, so head there on a weekday for a quieter experience.

Best months to visit

The National Museum of Iceland has year-round appeal, but Reykjavík is best visited from June–August, when more natural and cultural attractions are open amid longer days and warmer temperatures.