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Árbær Open Air Museum

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Árbær Open Air Museum (Árbæjarsafn) was established in 1957 and stands as Iceland's largest open-air museum, dedicated to preserving the history of Reykjavík. The site was originally a farm known for its hospitality, later converted into a museum to document the city's rapid modernization and the loss of older architectural styles. Today, the park features more than 20 historic buildings relocated from various parts of Reykjavík, including a church, a blacksmith's shop, and residential houses from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Museum staff often wear period costumes and demonstrate traditional crafts, creating a lively and immersive atmosphere for visitors. The layout of the village is particularly noteworthy, as it illustrates how living conditions evolved during the transition from a rural agrarian society to an urban lifestyle. During the summer months, the grounds host numerous events and workshops that focus on Icelandic customs and folk traditions. Árbæjarsafn serves not only as an educational resource but also as a recreational space where visitors can step back in time.

Location: Iceland
Top sights: Arbaer Outdoor Museum · Borholuhús · Dofri
Nearby: Kópavogur (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	0	0	1	3	6	9	11	11	8	4	2	0
Rain mm	169	152	154	119	93	83	99	121	181	147	149	172

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Árbær Open Air Museum is a living history museum with over 20 historic buildings. Visitors can explore the town square, village, and farm environments, entering most buildings to see authentic interiors.

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Typical hours

Typically open daily from June to August, with reduced hours in spring and autumn. Winter opening is limited, often only on weekends or by appointment, so check ahead.

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Photography

Photography is allowed throughout the museum, both indoors and outdoors. In some indoor exhibits flash may be prohibited to protect historic artifacts.

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Time needed

Plan at least 1.5 to 2 hours to explore all areas thoroughly. If you attend demonstrations or have coffee at the café, allow up to 3 hours.

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Combine with

Combine with a visit to Reykjavík's city center, as the museum is in the suburb of Árbær. Nearby parks and the Elliðaár River offer pleasant walking routes.

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Getting there

The museum is about a 10-minute drive from downtown Reykjavík, with free parking on site. Public bus number 5 stops near the entrance; check the timetable.

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Insider tip

Check the museum's website for special events like traditional baking or sheep shearing demonstrations. Arrive early to enjoy the quieter morning atmosphere before crowds arrive.

Geography

Coordinates

64.11890, -21.81750

Facts

The museum was officially established in the year 1957.
More than 20 historic buildings have been relocated to the site.
Dillon’s House, built in 1835, is among the oldest structures here.
The museum staff wear period-accurate historical costumes.
The summer months are the peak season for cultural workshops.
It is the largest open-air museum by area in all of Iceland.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Reykjavik Zoo and Family Park3 km · NWExplore →

Kópavogur4 km · WExplore →

Perlan5 km · WExplore →

Viðeyjarkirkja5 km · NExplore →

Höfði House5 km · NWExplore →

Garðabær6 km · SWExplore →

Heidmork Forest6 km · SEExplore →

Tjornin Lake Birdlife7 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Árbær Open Air Museum (10)

Arbaer Outdoor Museum🏛 museum

Historical open-air museum in Reykjavík, featuring traditional Icelandic houses.

🕒 Jun-Aug 10:00-17:00, Sep-May 13:00-17:00; Jan 1 off; easter 💶

Borholuhús

Building in Reykjavík, constructed over a hot spring.

Dofri

Sculpture of a troll at the Árbær open-air museum.

Leikhópurinn Lotta

Theatre group in Reykjavík, performing plays for children.

🕒 We 18:00-19:00

Árbæjarkirkja

Church in Reykjavík, built in the 19th century.

Höfuðstöðin

Gallery in Reykjavík, showcasing works by local artists.

Heimili Veitna🏛 museum

Museum in Reykjavík, documenting the history of water supply.

Grafarvogskirkja

Church building in Iceland, modern architecture.

Breiðholtskirkja

Church building in Iceland, built in the 1970s.

Háubakkar

Nature reserve in Reykjavík, with hiking trails and views.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What can you see at Árbær museum?

Over 20 historic buildings showing how Icelanders used to live.

Is the museum open year-round?

Yes, daily in summer; in winter, there is often only one daily tour at 13:00.

How do you get there from Reykjavík?

By public bus (lines 12 or 13) or about 15 minutes by car from the center.

Are there old craft demonstrations?

In the summer months, staff members often demonstrate traditional crafts.

Are pets allowed?

Dogs on a leash are allowed in the outdoor areas, but not inside the buildings.

Árbær Open Air Museum: where is it located?

Árbær Open Air Museum is located in Iceland.

Árbær Open Air Museum: what is there to see?

Highlights include Arbaer Outdoor Museum, Borholuhús, Dofri.

Árbær Open Air Museum: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Árbær Open Air Museum: why is it worth visiting?

The Árbær Open Air Museum (Árbæjarsafn) was established in 1957 and stands as Iceland's largest open-air museum, dedicated to preserving the history of Reykjavík.

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