Árbær Open Air Museum
Árbær Open Air Museum is located in Reykjavik, Iceland. This unique museum offers a glimpse into the past by showcasing traditional Icelandic life. Visitors can explore over 20 buildings that have been preserved or reconstructed to reflect how people lived in earlier times. The museum features old homes, a church, and a working farm, complete with animals like sheep and horses. Each building is filled with authentic furniture and tools, giving you a real sense of history. Guides dressed in period costumes provide informative tours, explaining how Icelanders lived and worked through the ages. Árbær Open Air Museum also hosts special events throughout the year, such as traditional craft demonstrations and seasonal celebrations. These activities make the experience more interactive and engaging for visitors of all ages. The museum is set in a beautiful landscape with walking paths, making it easy to explore at your own pace. It’s an educational and enjoyable way to learn about Iceland's cultural heritage. Whether you're interested in history or just want to see how people lived in the past, Árbær Open Air Museum offers a rich and immersive experience.
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
+354 411 6320
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Árbær Open Air Museum
What other travelers are saying about
Árbær Open Air Museum
I’m a big fan of Open Air Museums and most Nordic countries have one. I took public transportation 45 minutes to get to the museum and it was totally worth it! I learned so much about Iceland and the people dressed in character are absolutely wonderful! There’s something for everyone here and I saw lots of families.
This former farm has a few original building, but mostly it is historic structures from around the Country that have gather together and restored to different time periods. It was very interesting and we particularly enjoy the working 'general store' with a lovely variety of Icelandic treats, toys, game, etc. for sale. My only regret is that we didn't have a little more time.
Very nice overall! 90% of everything is in English however, there was one exhibit all in Icelandic so I had to skip that. Otherwise, good signage and interesting. A handful of houses were under repair so I couldn’t explore those but the buildings I did go in were really interesting. I spent about 1.5 hours there and it was lovely to walk around. I got there via bus from Reykjavik and it was easy enough to navigate getting there on my own.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Árbær Open Air Museum?
Árbær Open Air Museum is an open-air historical museum located in Reykjavik, Iceland, that showcases traditional Icelandic architecture, culture, and lifestyle through a collection of over 20 preserved buildings.
What can visitors expect to see at Árbær Open Air Museum?
Visitors can explore historical buildings such as turf houses, farmhouses, and urban homes, each decorated to reflect different time periods and aspects of Icelandic society. The museum also features exhibitions on traditional crafts and daily life.
Are there guided tours available at the museum?
Yes, Árbær Open Air Museum offers guided tours that provide in-depth insights into the history and significance of the buildings and artifacts on display. These tours are typically available in multiple languages during the summer months.
Is Árbær Open Air Museum suitable for children?
Absolutely! The museum offers family-friendly activities, including interactive exhibits and demonstrations of traditional crafts that engage children and help them learn about Icelandic history in an enjoyable way.
When is the best time to visit Árbær Open Air Museum?
The best time to visit is during the summer season when all the exhibitions are open, guided tours are more frequent, and outdoor activities can be fully enjoyed. However, the museum is open year-round with reduced hours in winter.
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