Explore Icelandic Heritage at Árbær Open Air Museum
Uncover Iceland's rich history and culture at Árbær Open Air Museum, featuring interactive exhibits and traditional buildings in a stunning outdoor setting.
Nestled in the heart of Reykjavík, the Árbær Open Air Museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore Icelandic history through a collection of traditional turf houses, wooden structures, and various exhibits that span several centuries. The museum is designed to reflect the life and culture of Icelanders from the 19th and early 20th centuries, making it an engaging destination for families, history enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the country's heritage. The museum covers a sprawling area, allowing guests to roam freely among its various buildings, including a church, a general store, and a schoolhouse, each meticulously restored to showcase authentic artifacts and furnishings. Visitors can also enjoy interactive demonstrations, including traditional crafts and folkloric storytelling, which enrich the experience and provide insight into Icelandic culture. Árbær Open Air Museum is especially family-friendly, featuring a toy museum that delights younger visitors with a nostalgic collection of toys from different eras. The museum's beautiful landscape, combined with its educational offerings, makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely day out. Don't forget your camera, as the picturesque surroundings provide ample opportunities for stunning photographs. Open every day from 10 AM to 5 PM, this museum is a perfect addition to your Reykjavík itinerary.
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for fewer crowds and a more intimate experience.
- Check the schedule for live demonstrations to enhance your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking a lot through the outdoor exhibits.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the museum's scenic grounds.
- Don't miss the toy museum—it's a highlight for children and adults alike.
A brief summary to Árbær Open Air Museum
- Kistuhylur 110, Reykjavík, Árbær, 110, IS
- +3544116320
- Visit website
- 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
Getting There
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Car
From anywhere in the Southern Peninsula, head towards Reykjavík. If you're coming from the south, take Route 1 (the Ring Road) towards Reykjavík. As you approach the city, follow the signs for Route 49, which will lead you into the city center. Continue on Route 49 until you reach the intersection with Kistuhylur road. Turn left onto Kistuhylur, and after a short drive, you will find Árbær Open Air Museum on your right at Kistuhylur 110.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, start by taking a bus from your location in the Southern Peninsula to Reykjavík. You can check the bus schedules on the Strætó website. Once you arrive at the main bus terminal in Reykjavík, take bus number 5 towards Árbær. This bus will take you directly to the museum. The nearest bus stop is located right outside the museum. Please note that you need to purchase a bus ticket, which can be done at the bus terminal or via the Strætó app.
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Walking from Bus Stop
Once you arrive at the Árbær bus stop, the museum is just a short walk away. Exit the bus, and you will see the entrance to Árbær Open Air Museum directly ahead. The museum is located at Kistuhylur 110, Reykjavík.
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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Lögreglan á höfuðborgarsvæðinu • Kópavogsstöð
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Moskan í Reykjavík
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Friends of Vatnajökull
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Framsókn Kópavogi
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Kópavogsvöllur
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Menntavegurinn
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Velferðarsvið Kópavogs
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Bæjarskrifstofur Kópavogs
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Kópur [Grímur Marinó]