Step Back in Time at Árbæjarsafn Open Air Museum
Explore Icelandic history and culture at the Árbæjarsafn Open Air Museum, featuring historic buildings and engaging exhibitions in a stunning natural setting.
Nestled in the vibrant city of Reykjavík, the Árbæjarsafn Open Air Museum offers visitors a unique glimpse into Iceland's past. This charming open-air museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and culture of Iceland through a collection of historic buildings, artifacts, and exhibitions. As you stroll through the meticulously restored structures, ranging from traditional turf houses to a fully equipped toy museum, you’ll find yourself transported back in time to experience the daily life of Icelanders from centuries past. The museum's picturesque setting, surrounded by lush greenery, provides a serene backdrop for exploration and discovery, making it a perfect spot for families and history enthusiasts alike. In addition to the historical buildings, the museum hosts various exhibitions that delve into Icelandic culture, including folk tales, traditional crafts, and local customs. Engaging displays and knowledgeable staff make learning about Iceland's heritage both enjoyable and informative. The museum is designed to be interactive, allowing visitors to engage with the past through demonstrations and activities, particularly in the summer months when the museum comes alive with special events. Árbæjarsafn is not just a museum; it's a community hub where locals and tourists come together to celebrate Icelandic culture. Whether you’re wandering through the quaint gardens, exploring the toy museum, or participating in seasonal activities, the Árbæjarsafn Open Air Museum is an enriching experience that highlights the importance of preserving history for future generations. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of this enchanting location.
Local tips
- Visit during summer for live demonstrations and special events.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the outdoor exhibits.
- Check museum hours before visiting, as they may vary seasonally.
- Don't miss the toy museum; it's a hit with children and adults alike!
A brief summary to Árbær Open Air Museum
- 459J+77, 4, 110, Kistuhylur, Reykjavík, Árbær, IS
- +3544116320
- Visit website
- Monday 1 pm-5 pm
- Tuesday 1 pm-5 pm
- Wednesday 1 pm-5 pm
- Thursday 1 pm-5 pm
- Friday 1 pm-5 pm
- Saturday 1 pm-5 pm
- Sunday 1 pm-5 pm
Getting There
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Public Bus
From Vesturbær, head to the nearest bus stop. If you are near the Sundhöllin swimming pool, catch Bus 15 towards Árbæjarsafn. The bus will take you directly to the Árbær Open Air Museum. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes. The bus fare is around 490 ISK for a single ticket, which you can purchase from the driver or via the Strætó app.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk, you can take a scenic route. Start from the center of Vesturbær and head east towards Kistuhylur street. Walk along Kistuhylur until you reach the entrance of the Árbær Open Air Museum. This walk is about 1.5 km and should take approximately 20-25 minutes. Make sure to enjoy the views along the way!
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Bicycle Rental
For a more active approach, consider renting a bicycle. There are several bike rental shops in Vesturbær. Once you have your bike, head east on the main roads towards Árbær. The museum is accessible via bike paths, and it should take around 15 minutes to reach. Remember to check if the rental shop requires a deposit or ID as a security.
Attractions Nearby to Árbær Open Air Museum
Landmarks nearby to Árbær Open Air Museum
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WWII Artillery Bunker in Breiðholt
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Icelandic Apartments
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Skotíþróttafélag Kópavogs
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Lögreglan á höfuðborgarsvæðinu • Kópavogsstöð
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Moskan í Reykjavík
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Kópavogslækur
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Íslenska Flatbakan
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Friends of Vatnajökull
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Framsókn Kópavogi
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Þjónustumiðstöð Kópavogsbæjar
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Reykjavík Art Museum Ásmundarsafn
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Kópavogsvöllur
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Menntavegurinn
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Velferðarsvið Kópavogs
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Rauðhólar