How long does it take to visit the National Museum of Iceland?

Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2.5 hours exploring the museum. The permanent exhibition 'Making of a Nation' is extensive, covering 1,200 years of history across two floors. If you're especially interested in Viking-age artifacts, allow extra time for the ground-floor galleries.

Is the National Museum suitable for children?

Yes, the museum offers a dedicated children's area with hands-on activities and interactive displays. Children under 18 enter free of charge. The Viking-age artifacts and reconstructed historical objects tend to captivate younger visitors.

What is the most important artifact in the museum?

The museum's most prized artifact is a small bronze figure of Thor, dating to around 1000 AD, found at Eyjafjörður in North Iceland. Other highlights include the Valþjófsstaður church door (c. 1200), medieval manuscripts, and a collection of traditional Icelandic costumes.

Can I visit the National Museum with a Reykjavík City Card?

Yes, the Reykjavík City Card includes free admission to the National Museum of Iceland along with many other museums, galleries, and swimming pools in the capital area. The card is available in 24-, 48-, or 72-hour options.

National Museum of Iceland: Viking History & Cultural Heritage

Iceland's foremost cultural institution, tracing the nation's story from Viking settlement to the present day through over 2,000 artifacts.

Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team

Location

Reykjavík

Suðurgata 41 • Near University of Iceland

The National Museum of Iceland (Þjóðminjasafn Íslands) is the country's principal repository of cultural heritage, located on Suðurgata in central Reykjavík near the University of Iceland campus. Founded in 1863, the museum houses a vast collection spanning from the earliest Norse settlements around 870 AD to the 21st century. The permanent exhibition, "Making of a Nation," guides visitors chronologically through Icelandic history using original artifacts, multimedia displays, and reconstructed environments.

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

Admission

2,000 ISK

Adults. Free for children under 18 and with Reykjavík City Card

Opening Hours

10:00–17:00

Daily in summer. Reduced hours and closed Mondays in winter

Visit Duration

1.5–2.5 hours

Two floors of exhibits covering 1,200 years of history

What to Expect

Viking-Age Artifacts

Swords, jewelry, tools, and household items from the Norse settlement period around 870–1000 AD

Thor Figurine

A rare bronze statuette of the Norse god Thor dating to around 1000 AD, one of the museum's most treasured objects

Valþjófsstaður Door

An intricately carved medieval church door from around 1200 AD depicting the legend of a knight and a lion

Traditional Costumes

Collection of Icelandic national dress and textiles showing the evolution of clothing over centuries

Making of a Nation

The permanent exhibition tracing Iceland's journey from Norse settlement through Danish rule to independence

Temporary Exhibitions

Rotating exhibits exploring specific themes in Icelandic culture, art, and archaeology

Getting There

The National Museum is located at Suðurgata 41, a 15-minute walk from Hallgrímskirkja or a 10-minute walk from the city centre. Reykjavík city buses stop nearby, and the museum is included in the Reykjavík City Card which also covers bus fare. Limited street parking is available on Suðurgata, with additional parking near the University of Iceland campus.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is open year-round, making it a reliable option regardless of weather. Summer sees higher visitor numbers, so mornings right at opening tend to be quieter. Rainy or windy days are an excellent time to visit, as the museum provides a full indoor experience. Check the website for any seasonal closures around public holidays.

Planning help

National Museum FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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