Saga Museum
Grandagarður 2, Reykjavík, Iceland, 101
Reykjavik’s Saga Museum brings to life the history of Iceland as it was told in the medieval sagas. Moodily lifelike silicone figures depict famous scenes from the epics, such as Leif Erikson’s voyage to Vinland, complete with screams. Spend an hour or so at the museum for a compelling view of Iceland’s social history, with a dash of geology amidst the gore.
The Basics
Explore the Saga Museum using a multilingual audio guide, which recounts legends from the Icelandic sagas and tales of historical figures such as Snorri Sturluson and Ingolfur Arnarson. You’ll also learn about the natural disasters that made life difficult for Icelanders during the period of settlement, as well as the Black Death that led to the loss of more than a third of the population. At the end of the tour, take the opportunity to dress up as a Viking and try out Viking weapons and armor.
To save time at the entrance, buy your admission ticket online in advance.
Things to Know Before You Go
The Saga Museum is a must-do for travelers interested in Icelandic history.
The building is wheelchair-accessible.
Seniors, students, children, and people with disabilities get discounted admission.
Check the museum’s social media feeds for information on upcoming special events.
There’s an on-site gift shop.
How to Get There
Located in Reykjavik’s Old Harbour area (Grandi), the Saga Museum is around a 30-minute walk from the center of town. Alternatively, bus 14 stops right outside the building.
When to Get There
The museum is open every day from 10am to 6pm, and often hosts musical performances and other festive events around International Viking Day (May 8).
True-to-Life Displays
The lifelike replicas of historical Icelandic figures displayed in the museum were based on descriptions found in the Icelandic sagas. For added authenticity, artists used traditional methods to construct the clothing, weapons, and everyday objects. The wool and linen articles, for example, were hand-dyed.
Ways to explore
Explore the Saga Museum using a multilingual audio guide, which is included in your ticket, then finish up with the opportunity to dress up as a Viking and try out Viking weapons and armor. Learn about natural disasters that made life difficult for Icelanders during the period of settlement, as well as the Black Death that led to the loss of more than a third of the population. To save time at the entrance, buy your admission ticket online in advance.
Accessibility
The museum is wheelchair accessible.
Age limits
Some exhibits may be a little gory for sensitive younger children.
What to pack
Rain gear is a must for Iceland.
What to wear
Flat shoes and pants let you change in and out of the costumes easily.
Not allowed
Touching the exhibition figures
Amenities
Restrooms, gift shop
Address
The Saga Museum is in Reykjavik’s old harbor area, Grandi, about a 30-minute walk northwest of Hallgrímskirkja, or a 15-minute walk from Harpa.
Driving
From the center of town, bear north to the Sæbraut coastal highway (Route 41), then head west to the inner far corner of the old harbor. There’s no dedicated parking, but you can often find paid spots on the street.
Public transportation
If you’re taking the bus, the museum is a 2-minute walk from the Grandagarður stop (on routes 3 and 14).
Best times to visit
The museum is open 10am–5pm daily, with shorter hours on December 24, December 25, and January 1. It’s rarely crowded, so visit at a time that works for you.
Best days to visit
The Saga Museum is a good option for one of Reykjavik’s many rainy days.
Best months to visit
The museum is climate-controlled, so there’s no bad month to visit.
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