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Reykjavik Botanical Garden

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Reykjavik Botanical Garden (Iceland)

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The Reykjavik Botanical Garden, locally referred to as Grasagarður Reykjavíkur, was founded in 1961 to mark the 175th anniversary of the city's incorporation. Situated within the Laugardalur district, the garden maintains a professionally curated scientific collection of over 5,000 plant species and subspecies. The garden fulfills a dual role as a public recreational space and a research facility focusing on subarctic flora and the acclimatization of exotic species to Iceland's unique weather conditions. A significant portion of its mission involves the conservation of native Icelandic flora alongside species from similar climatic regions across the Northern Hemisphere. The grounds are divided into thematic sections, such as the alpinum, the rose garden, and a collection of useful plants. During the summer months, Café Flóra, located inside a greenhouse, serves as a popular social and cultural hub. Admission is free to the general public year-round, and the garden is a key resource for environmental education.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C00136911118420
Rain mm169152154119938399121181147149172

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The garden is centrally located and can be easily reached by foot, bicycle, or public transportation from the main city areas. Entrances are well-marked and universally accessible, making it an effortless addition to any itinerary.
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Best season
The peak visiting season naturally aligns with summer, from June to August, when the floral displays are in full, spirited bloom. However, autumn provides beautiful foliage colors, and winter transforms the space into a peaceful, snowy retreat.
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Terrain & paths
The grounds consist of meticulously maintained, paved pathways and smooth gravel trails that gently weave through the diverse plant collections. The terrain is flat, stable, and highly suitable for wheelchairs and baby strollers.
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What to bring
No specialized gear is required; simple, comfortable everyday clothing and standard walking shoes are perfectly adequate. Bringing a camera and a light raincoat is always recommended to capture the scenery and prepare for sudden showers.
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Parking
Free public parking is usually available directly adjacent to the main entrances or on the surrounding neighborhood streets. Finding a spot is rarely an issue, though weekends might see slightly higher visitor volume and reduced availability.
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Safety
This is a remarkably safe environment designed for peaceful family enjoyment; just remain on the designated paths to protect the delicate flora. Please respect the rules regarding keeping pets on a leash to ensure a calm atmosphere for everyone.
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Time needed
A typical relaxed stroll through the various botanical sections takes approximately one to two hours. Visitors often choose to stay longer to enjoy a coffee at the on-site cafe or simply sit on a bench and appreciate the tranquil surroundings.

Geography

Coordinates
64.13960, -21.86920

Facts

  • Founded in 1961 on the city's 175th anniversary
  • Home to a collection of over 5,000 plant species
  • Located in the Laugardalur district of Reykjavik
  • Free admission for the public all year round
  • Features the popular Café Flóra in a greenhouse
  • Focuses on subarctic and native Icelandic flora

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Reykjavik Zoo and Family ParkReykjavik Zoo and Family Park<1 km · SExplore →
Höfði HouseHöfði House2 km · NWExplore →
PerlanPerlan3 km · SWExplore →
ViðeyjarkirkjaViðeyjarkirkja3 km · NExplore →
Árbær Open Air MuseumÁrbær Open Air Museum3 km · SEExplore →
Tjornin Lake BirdlifeTjornin Lake Birdlife4 km · WExplore →
KópavogurKópavogur4 km · SWExplore →
GarðabærGarðabær6 km · SWExplore →

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Sights in the town Reykjavik Botanical Garden (10)

Heimilisfuglar

A bird exhibit in Reykjavik Botanical Garden featuring local species.

Fyssa

An artwork in Reykjavik Botanical Garden that prompts reflection.

Innsigli

An attraction in Reykjavik Botanical Garden depicting a seal or symbol.

Fuglar

A bird station in Reykjavik Botanical Garden showcasing various bird species.

Botanical Garden of Reykjavik

The botanical garden in Reykjavik houses a diverse collection of plants from Iceland and abroad.

🆓

Fjölskyldu- og húsdýragarðurinn🌳 park

A zoo, botanical garden, and amusement park in the Icelandic capital.

Wash House

The ruin of a wash house in Reykjavik Botanical Garden, evidence of the site's former use.

Áskirkja

A church building in Reykjavik, Iceland, serving the local congregation.

Laugarás

A nature reserve in Reykjavik protecting local flora and fauna.

Art Gallerí

A gallery in Reykjavik Botanical Garden with rotating art exhibitions.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee to the Botanical Garden?
No, entrance to the garden is free for all visitors.
Is there a café on site?
Yes, Café Flóra is located in a greenhouse within the garden.
When do most plants bloom?
The best time to see the flowers in bloom is July and August.
Where exactly in Reykjavík is the garden located?
It is located in Laugardalur Park, next to the zoo.
Is the garden wheelchair accessible?
Yes, most paths are flat and well-maintained.
Reykjavik Botanical Garden: where is it located?
Reykjavik Botanical Garden is located in Iceland.
Reykjavik Botanical Garden: what is there to see?
Highlights include Heimilisfuglar, Fyssa, Innsigli.
Reykjavik Botanical Garden: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Reykjavik Botanical Garden: why is it worth visiting?
The Reykjavik Botanical Garden, locally referred to as Grasagarður Reykjavíkur, was founded in 1961 to mark the 175th anniversary of the city's incorporation.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Reykjavík — Reykjavik Botanical Garden (Iceland)
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Reykjavík is the capital and largest city of Iceland, serving as the nation's cultural, economic, and governmental hub.
Kópavogur — Reykjavik Botanical Garden (Iceland)
Kópavogur
Kópavogur is Iceland's second largest city, located directly south of Reykjavík.
Hafnarfjörður — Reykjavik Botanical Garden (Iceland)
Hafnarfjörður
Hafnarfjörður is a port city south of Reykjavík, built on an ancient lava field.
Hafnarfjörður — Reykjavik Botanical Garden (Iceland)
Hafnarfjörður
A charming port town just outside Reykjavík, known as the 'town in the lava' and famous for its Viking heritage and elf folklore.
Keflavík — Reykjavik Botanical Garden (Iceland)
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Mosfellsbær — Reykjavik Botanical Garden (Iceland)
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Mosfellsbær is located northeast of Reykjavík, known for its hilly landscape and thermal springs.
Garðabær — Reykjavik Botanical Garden (Iceland)
Garðabær
Garðabær is a growing town in the Greater Reykjavík area.
Selfoss — Reykjavik Botanical Garden (Iceland)
Selfoss
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Akranes — Reykjavik Botanical Garden (Iceland)
Akranes
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Seltjarnarnes — Reykjavik Botanical Garden (Iceland)
Seltjarnarnes
Seltjarnarnes is a small municipality on a peninsula just west of Reykjavík.
Vestmannaeyjar — Reykjavik Botanical Garden (Iceland)
Vestmannaeyjar
Vestmannaeyjar is a town on Heimaey island in the archipelago of the same name off Iceland's south coast.
Blue Lagoon (Grindavík) — Reykjavik Botanical Garden (Iceland)
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Grindavík — Reykjavik Botanical Garden (Iceland)
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Grindavík is a fishing town on the south coast of the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Hveragerði — Reykjavik Botanical Garden (Iceland)
Hveragerði
Known as the 'Greenhouse Town', it sits on an active geothermal field and is famous for its hot springs and banana cultivation.
Hveragerði — Reykjavik Botanical Garden (Iceland)
Hveragerði
Hveragerði is famous for its high geothermal activity, located about 45 km east of Reykjavík.

History & landmarks

Reykjavík City Hall — Reykjavik Botanical Garden (Iceland)
Reykjavík City Hall
Reykjavík City Hall is situated on the banks of Lake Tjörnin.
Hvolsvöllur — Reykjavik Botanical Garden (Iceland)
Hvolsvöllur
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Höfði House — Reykjavik Botanical Garden (Iceland)
Höfði House
Höfði House is a historic building in Reykjavík, built in 1909.

Nature

Reykjavik Zoo and Family Park — Reykjavik Botanical Garden (Iceland)
Reykjavik Zoo and Family Park
The zoo focuses on Icelandic domestic animals and native wildlife like Arctic foxes and seals.