Step Back in Time at Árbær Open Air Museum

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Explore Iceland's vibrant past at Árbær Open Air Museum - a living history experience in the heart of Reykjavik, showcasing authentic architecture and culture.

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Árbær Open Air Museum

Experience Icelandic history and culture at the Árbær Open Air Museum, where you can explore historical buildings, interactive exhibits, and scenic landscapes that capture the essence of Iceland's past.

A brief summary to Árbær Open Air Museum

Kistuhylur 110, Reykjavík, Árbær, 110, IS
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Monday 10 am-5 pm
Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
Thursday 10 am-5 pm
Friday 10 am-5 pm
Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 10 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Árbær Open Air Museum.

Plan your visit on a weekday to avoid larger weekend crowds and have a more immersive experience.
Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly in Iceland, and you'll want to be comfortable while exploring.
Take advantage of the guided tours available, as they offer valuable insights and stories that enhance your visit.
Check the museum's website for special events or workshops that may be happening during your visit.
Don’t forget your camera; the picturesque settings provide numerous photo opportunities!

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Getting There

Car

If you are driving from the town of Selfoss, take Route 1 (the Ring Road) heading north toward Reykjavík. After approximately 50km, take the exit toward Route 41 (Reykjavik). Follow Route 41 for about 15km until you reach the intersection with Kistuhylur Street. Turn left onto Kistuhylur Street and continue straight for about 1km. The Árbær Open Air Museum will be on your right.
Public Transportation

To get to Árbær Open Air Museum using public transportation from Reykjavík, head to the main bus terminal, Hlemmur. Take bus number 14 towards Árbæjarsafn. The journey will take approximately 30 minutes. Disembark at the stop named 'Árbær'. From the bus stop, walk down Kistuhylur Street for about 5 minutes and you will arrive at the museum.
Car

If you're coming from Vik, take Route 1 (the Ring Road) heading north. After about 140km, follow the signs to Reykjavík. Once you reach Reykjavík, take Route 41 toward Keflavik. After about 5km, turn onto Kistuhylur Street and continue straight for about 1km until you see the museum on your right.
Car

If you are traveling from the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, take Route 54 to Route 1 (the Ring Road). Continue on Route 1 heading to Reykjavík for approximately 150km. Once you reach Reykjavík, take the exit for Route 41 and follow it for about 15km. Turn left onto Kistuhylur Street and drive straight for 1km to find the museum on your right.

Discover more about Árbær Open Air Museum

Nestled in the heart of Reykjavik, the Árbær Open Air Museum offers a unique glimpse into Iceland's rich history through a captivating outdoor experience. Spanning over 28 acres, this living museum showcases an impressive collection of historical buildings, including farmhouses, churches, and a variety of structures that have been meticulously relocated from different regions across Iceland. As you stroll through the museum grounds, you'll not only admire the architecture but also encounter costumed guides who bring the past to life, sharing stories and insights into life in Iceland from the 19th century to the mid-20th century. The museum features interactive exhibits that invite visitors of all ages to engage with Icelandic traditions, crafts, and daily life. Kids will particularly enjoy the toy museum section, where they can discover vintage toys and games that have entertained generations. Each building and exhibit is thoughtfully curated to provide a comprehensive understanding of Iceland's cultural heritage, making it a must-visit for history buffs and families alike. The setting itself is picturesque, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visiting the Árbær Open Air Museum not only enriches your appreciation for Icelandic culture but also offers an enjoyable day out in a beautiful environment.