Distance
5 Min Ferry
The ferry from Skarfabakki harbour in Reykjavík takes just 5 minutes to reach the island.
Viðey Island Reykjavík: Imagine Peace Tower & Visitor Guide
A tranquil island just minutes from downtown Reykjavík, where Yoko Ono's Imagine Peace Tower, outdoor art installations, and Iceland's oldest stone building create a unique cultural retreat.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Location
Reykjavík Harbour, Capital Region
Just a 5-minute ferry ride from Skarfabakki.
Viðey is a small island in Kollfjörður, the bay north of Reykjavík's harbour. Despite its proximity to the capital, it feels like another world: wide grassy meadows, rugged lava shoreline, and sweeping views of Mount Esja and the Reykjanes peninsula. The island's centrepiece is Yoko Ono's Imagine Peace Tower, a column of light that illuminates the sky each autumn and winter. Viðeyjarstofa, built in 1755, is one of Iceland's oldest stone structures and now serves as a café and cultural space.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
This guide is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Conditions in Iceland can change quickly—always check official alerts and road conditions before you drive or hike.
Sources to check
Highlight
Peace Tower
Yoko Ono's Imagine Peace Tower beams light into the sky from October 9 to December 8 each year.
Season
Year-round
The island is accessible by ferry year-round, with more frequent summer sailings.
What to Expect
Imagine Peace Tower
Yoko Ono's light installation projects a powerful beam skyward, inscribed with 'Imagine Peace' in 24 languages. Lit annually October 9 to December 8.
Viðeyjarstofa
Built in 1755 by Iceland's first treasurer, Skúli Magnússon, this is one of Iceland's oldest stone buildings. Now a café and event space.
Richard Serra Sculptures
Nine pairs of basalt columns by sculptor Richard Serra are installed across the island, creating a site-specific artwork called Áfangar (Milestones).
Walking Paths
Well-marked trails loop around the island through meadows, past ruins of a medieval monastery, and along the rocky shoreline with mountain views.
Birdlife
The island is home to dozens of bird species including eider ducks, Arctic terns, and oystercatchers, especially active during the breeding season.
Mountain Views
Clear-day views include Mount Esja to the north, the Snæfellsjökull glacier to the west, and the colourful Reykjavík skyline to the south.
Getting There
Ferries to Viðey depart from Skarfabakki harbour in Reykjavík, near the cruise ship terminal (about 10 minutes by car or bus from downtown). The crossing takes approximately 5 minutes. From May through September, ferries run several times daily. During the Imagine Peace Tower season (October to December), special evening sailings are available. Check the Reykjavík city website for current schedules.
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June to August) offers the most frequent ferry service, the best weather for walking, and the café at Viðeyjarstofa is open. For the Imagine Peace Tower, visit between October 9 and December 8 and take an evening ferry to see the light column illuminated against the dark sky. Spring is excellent for birdwatching as nesting season begins.
Planning help
Viðey FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.