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Sun Voyager
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monument
The Sun Voyager, known locally as Sólfar, is a striking stainless steel sculpture located on the waterfront promenade of Reykjavík. It was created by Icelandic artist Jón Gunnar Árnason and unveiled at its current location in August 1990 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the city. While often misinterpreted as a Viking ship, the artist intended it to be a 'dream boat' symbolizing hope, progress, and the promise of undiscovered territory. The sculpture is oriented toward the north across Faxaflói Bay, providing a well-suited frame for the setting sun and the distant Mount Esja. Tragically, the artist passed away from leukemia shortly before the sculpture was fully completed and installed. Today, it stands as one of the most photographed public artworks in Iceland, embodying the seafaring spirit of the nation.
- Location: Iceland
- Top sights: Gallery Underpass · Rauðarárvík · Art Gallery 101
- 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
Visiting
The Sun Voyager sculpture is freely accessible on the Reykjavík waterfront. It can be viewed from the outside at any time, with no interior.
Typical hours
As an outdoor artwork, it has no opening hours. It is accessible 24/7, with best visibility during daylight.
Photography
Photography is unrestricted; the sculpture is a popular photo subject. At sunset it creates a spectacular backdrop with the sea.
Time needed
A visit takes 10 to 20 minutes for photos and enjoying the view. The sculpture is part of a coastal walk.
Combine with
Sun Voyager is on the coastal walk that leads directly to Harpa concert hall and the city center. The National Museum is also within walking distance.
Getting there
The sculpture is easily reachable on foot, by bike, or by public bus. Parking is available nearby at the harbor.
Insider tip
Visit the artwork at sunset for the best light and great photos. Combine the visit with a stroll along the promenade.
Geography
Facts
- The sculpture is made entirely of stainless steel.
- It was unveiled on August 18, 1990, for the city's bicentennial.
- The artist Jón Gunnar Árnason died before it was installed.
- It is a dream boat, not a representation of a Viking vessel.
- The site offers a direct view of Mount Esja across the bay.
- The Sun Voyager is a popular spot for viewing the midnight sun.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Sun Voyager (10)
Art 67
Art gallery in Reykjavík.
National Theatre of Iceland
Theatre in Iceland, located in Reykjavík.
The Culture House🏛 museum
Safnahúsið, part of the national museum of Iceland, originally a national library.
Rainbow street
Street painted in rainbow colours in Reykjavík.
Arnarhóll🌳 park
A hill in Iceland, located in Reykjavík.
Harpa
Harpa is a concert hall and conference centre in Reykjavík, Iceland.
Volcano Express
Cinematic volcano simulator with dynamic motion seating inside Harpa.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What does the Sun Voyager sculpture represent?
It is a dream boat and an ode to the sun, often mistakenly interpreted as a Viking ship.
Where is the sculpture located in Reykjavík?
It is located on the Sæbraut promenade, right by the ocean with a view of Mount Esja.
When is the best time for a photo?
At sunset or during the midnight sun in summer, the stainless steel glows beautifully.
Is there an entry fee?
No, the artwork is in a public space and can be visited for free at any time.
Who created the sculpture?
The work was created by the Icelandic sculptor Jón Gunnar Árnason.
Sun Voyager: where is it located?
Sun Voyager is located in Iceland.
Sun Voyager: what is there to see?
Highlights include Gallery Underpass, Rauðarárvík, Art Gallery 101.
Sun Voyager: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Sun Voyager: why is it worth visiting?
The Sun Voyager, known locally as Sólfar, is a striking stainless steel sculpture located on the waterfront promenade of Reykjavík.
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