Plizio Visual Lab

Viðey Island

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

Viðey is the largest island in the Kollafjörður Bay near Reykjavík, boasting a history of human settlement that dates back over a thousand years. Archaeological evidence indicates the island was inhabited in the 10th century and later became a prominent religious center with the establishment of an Augustinian monastery in 1225. Following the Reformation in 1550, the island transitioned into a residence for royal officials, and in 1755, Skúli Magnússon, the first Icelandic Treasurer, built the historic Viðeyjarstofa house. This structure is renowned as the first house in Iceland constructed from stone and mortar, representing a significant shift in national architecture alongside the neighboring church completed in 1774. Today, Viðey is a popular destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers, while also hosting the Imagine Peace Tower, a light monument created by Yoko Ono in memory of John Lennon. The island provides a unique blend of medieval history, 18th-century Danish-influenced architecture, and modern conceptual art within sight of the capital city.

Location: Iceland
Top sights: Viðeyjarkirkja · Hulduvör · Virkisfjara
Nearby: Reykjavík (5 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

Viðey Island is accessible by ferry from Reykjavik and is open to visitors throughout the year. The main historical buildings can be viewed from the outside, and some interiors are opened during guided tours.

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Typical hours

Ferry schedules vary by season, typically running more frequently in summer. The island itself is open during daylight hours, with no fixed closing time.

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Photography

Photography is permitted across the island, including inside the historic houses where signs allow. Tripods are fine for landscape shots, but flash may be restricted indoors.

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Time needed

Plan for at least three to four hours to walk the island, explore the monastery ruins, and see the Viðeyjarstofa house. Many visitors combine it with lunch at the café if open.

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Combine with

Combine with a visit to the Sun Voyager sculpture or Harpa Concert Hall back in Reykjavik. A Reykjavik city tour can easily include the ferry trip to Viðey Island.

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Getting there

Take a ferry from Reykjavik's old harbor; the ride takes about 15 minutes. Walk or cycle around the island once there - cars are not allowed on Viðey.

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Insider tip

Check the ferry website in advance for seasonal schedules and book tickets online to avoid queues. Bring a windproof jacket and snacks, as the island has limited services.

Geography

Coordinates

64.16420, -21.85420

Facts

An Augustinian monastery was established on the island in 1225.
Viðeyjarstofa was built in 1755 as the first stone building in Iceland.
The island's church was consecrated in 1774 and is remarkably well-preserved.
Skúli Magnússon, the founder of modern Reykjavík, is buried beneath the church.
The Imagine Peace Tower was unveiled by Yoko Ono in 2007.
The island was a thriving community with its own school until the mid-20th century.