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The Settlement Exhibition

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Settlement Exhibition (Landnámssýningin) in Reykjavík is a modern museum built around the archaeological remains of a 10th-century Viking longhouse. The ruins were discovered in 2001 during construction work at the corner of Aðalstræti and Suðurgata, representing some of the earliest traces of human habitation in the Icelandic capital. Experts were able to precisely date the findings using a specific layer of tephra originating from a volcanic eruption in 871 AD. The museum employs innovative multimedia technology and interactive displays to visualize and explain the lives of the first Viking settlers in this region. At the heart of the exhibition is the excavated hearth and the foundations of the longhouse, which are virtually enhanced with projections to illustrate their original appearance. The display also features artifacts such as loom weights, combs, and tools found during the excavations, documenting the daily activities of the period. As part of the Reykjavík City Museum, the facility provides a fascinating insight into the origins of Icelandic society and the technological achievements of its early inhabitants.

Location: Iceland
Top sights: Reykjavík 871±2 · Fógetagarðurinn · Garðahlynur
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

This underground museum is open to visitors and built around excavated Viking longhouse ruins. You can walk through the exhibition and see the archaeological remains up close.

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Typical hours

Opening hours vary by season; typically the museum is open daily from late morning to early evening. It is advisable to check the official website for current timings before your visit.

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Photography

Photography is generally allowed inside, but flash may be prohibited to protect artifacts. You can take pictures of the ruins and exhibits for personal use.

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Time needed

Most visitors spend about 1 to 1.5 hours exploring the exhibition. Allow extra time if you read all the informational panels.

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Combine with

The museum is located in central Reykjavík, near the Harpa Concert Hall and the old harbor. Combine your visit with a walk along the coastline or a trip to the National Museum.

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Getting there

The museum is easily reached on foot from central Reykjavík, or by bus from other parts of the city. It is also within walking distance of the main shopping street Laugavegur.

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Insider tip

Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds, as the museum is popular with tourists. Consider purchasing the Reykjavík City Card for free entry and discounts at many sites.

Geography

Coordinates

64.14720, -21.94260

Facts

The ruins were discovered in 2001 during local construction work.
A volcanic tephra layer from 871 AD was used for precise dating.
The museum is located at the address Aðalstræti 16 in Reykjavik.
The excavated Viking longhouse dates back to the 10th century.
The exhibition features advanced multimedia and 3D reconstructions.
The site is a key part of the official Reykjavík City Museum.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Reykjavík<1 km · SExplore →

Höfði House2 km · EExplore →

Perlan2 km · SEExplore →

Seltjarnarnes3 km · WExplore →

Reykjavik Botanical Garden4 km · EExplore →

Grótta Lighthouse4 km · NWExplore →

Kópavogur4 km · SEExplore →

Viðeyjarkirkja5 km · NEExplore →

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

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

Sights in the town The Settlement Exhibition (10)

Reykjavík 871±2 🏛 museum

Museum displaying archaeological finds from the 9th century, about Iceland's settlement.

🕒 Mo-Su 10:00-17:00♿💶

Fógetagarðurinn 🌳 park

Square in Reykjavík, on the site of the former prison, now a green space.

Garðahlynur

A notable maple tree in Reykjavík, known for its size.

Aðalstræti 10🏛 museum

Oldest standing building in central Reykjavík, now a museum.

🌐 borgarsogusafn.is🕒 Mo-Su 10:00-17:00💶

Kyiv Square🌳 park

Square in Reykjavík, named after the Ukrainian capital.

Reykjavik City Hall

City hall on the shore of Lake Tjörnin, a modern building.

Tjarnarbíó

Theatre by Lake Tjörnin, hosting plays and concerts.

Alþingisgarðurinn🌳 park

Park near the parliament, with monuments and old trees.

Reykjavík Cathedral

Cathedral of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Iceland, built in the 18th century.

Kogga Ceramic Studio

Ceramic studio and gallery in Reykjavík, showcasing contemporary pottery.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What does the exhibition show?

It features the ruins of a 10th-century Viking longhouse and settlement-era artifacts.

Where in Reykjavík is it located?

In the city center, at the corner of Aðalstræti and Suðurgata streets.

Is the exhibition child-friendly?

Yes, there are interactive screens and a dedicated area for children.

Is photography allowed inside?

Yes, photography without flash is permitted for personal use.

How much time should I spend there?

About 45 to 60 minutes is usually enough to see everything.

The Settlement Exhibition: where is it located?

The Settlement Exhibition is located in Iceland.

The Settlement Exhibition: what is there to see?

Highlights include Reykjavík 871±2, Fógetagarðurinn, Garðahlynur.

The Settlement Exhibition: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

The Settlement Exhibition: why is it worth visiting?

The Settlement Exhibition (Landnámssýningin) in Reykjavík is a modern museum built around the archaeological remains of a 10th-century Viking longhouse.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

The Settlement Exhibition

Best time to visit & climate