Historic Houses and a Living Heritage Site

Árbæjarsafn is an open‑air museum in Reykjavík where around twenty historic buildings and the turf farm Árbær create a charming setting reminiscent of a town square, a village and rural Iceland. Visitors can walk through the houses and explore architecture, daily life and the living conditions of people in old Reykjavík.

Exhibitions That Illuminate the Past

Inside the buildings, visitors find diverse exhibitions on Icelandic culture and society in earlier times. Highlights include Consumption – Reykjavík in the 20th Century, Growing Pains, Ancient Roots of Árbær and the family‑friendly exhibition Come and Play. These exhibitions reflect the development of the city, traditional livelihoods and everyday life through the centuries.

A Living Museum in Summer

In summer, the museum becomes a lively historical setting where costumed staff demonstrate crafts, daily tasks and work from past centuries. Visitors can also see an open archaeological excavation, farm animals in the fields and enjoy coffee and refreshments in Dillonshús. This experience appeals to both children and adults.

Events and Education All Year Round

Árbær Open Air Museum offers a varied programme throughout the year, including events for children and families, lectures and guided tours on history, folklore, conservation and architecture. The museum also provides tailored educational visits for school groups at all levels.

Family Facilities and Activities

The museum grounds include a playground, football field and various play equipment that make the visit especially enjoyable for younger guests. Families can spend time together in a historical environment where learning and play go hand in hand.

Information and Bookings

Visitors do not need to book tickets in advance, but groups are required to book ahead. Information on opening hours, prices and group bookings is available on the website of the museum.

Ten ideas for activities in Reykjavík and nearby

1. Take a boat tour from Reykjavíkurhöfn; see whales, puffins or northern lights, try sea angling or sail to Viðey.
2. Visit our sister museums in the city centre: The Settlement Exhibition in Aðalstræti, Reykjavík Museum of Photography and Reykjavík Maritime Museum.
3. Explore the lively harbour district at Grandi with galleries, shops and restaurants.
4. Visit Saga Museum, the Whales of Iceland exhibition, and then FlyOver Iceland for a spectacular virtual flight over Iceland’s natural wonders.
5. Take a walking tour of Reykjavík and see historic buildings and landmarks such as Hallgrímskirkja, Harpa and Ráðhús Reykjavíkur.
6. Walk through the wooded area of Öskjuhlíð and visit exhibitions in Perlan, including the ice cave and northern lights show.
7. Go cycling and discover nature around the capital area, including the coastline and Gróttuviti, Fossvogsdalur and Elliðaárdalur.
8. Go for a swim at Nauthólsvík. For extra luxury, visit Sky Lagoon in Kópavogur.
9. Hike nearby mountains such as Úlfarsfell, Mosfell, Helgafell, Esja or Vífilsfell.
10. If visiting in winter, explore the ski areas in Bláfjöll and Skálafell, about 30 minutes from Reykjavík.