The National Museum of Iceland is Iceland’s principal museum for cultural and historical artefacts. It is located at Suðurgata 41 in central Reykjavík and this guide covers practical planning information including opening hours, ticket prices, transport and parking, accessibility, visit duration, practical tips and frequently asked questions. Opening hours and ticket prices were checked and updated in January 2026.
To skip the detail, buy skip-the-line tickets for the National Museum of Iceland here.
Quick facts
| Opening hours | Daily 10am–5pm (check for special holiday closures) |
|---|---|
| Ticket prices | Adult 3,300 ISK · Students & seniors 1,600 ISK · Children under 18 free · Disabled free |
| Address | Suðurgata 41, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland |
| Transport / Parking | Bus stops nearby; free on‑site parking and paid parking in the University area |
| Typical visit time | 1.5 – 3 hours depending on interest |
National Museum of Iceland opening hours
The museum’s standard hours are:
- Every day from 10am to 5pm
Hours may vary on public holidays. Check the official site before your visit if you plan to go on or around recognised national holidays.
National Museum of Iceland ticket prices
- Adult: 3,300 ISK
- Students & Seniors (with ID): 1,600 ISK
- Children under 18: Free entry
- Visitors with disabilities: Free entry
Tickets can generally be purchased at the entrance or through the museum’s booking portal. Online booking will show available time slots when required.
Why book the Reykjavik City Card (48-hour)?
- Free entry to top Reykjavik attractions: Visit museums, galleries and cultural sites without paying separate entrance fees.
- Unlimited public transport included: Use buses across Reykjavik city for 48 hours without extra cost — great for easy sightseeing.
- Two-day convenient pass: Covering 48 hours, it offers flexibility to explore at your own pace across two days.
- Cost-effective for multiple visits: Ideal if you plan to visit several attractions — saves money compared with paying entry individually.
- Easy digital voucher format: Receive the pass as a voucher on your phone — no need to print any tickets or vouchers.
How to get to the National Museum of Iceland
- The museum is at Suðurgata 41 in central Reykjavík.
- Several city buses stop within a short walk of the museum.
- If using the Reykjavík City Card, entry is included and bus travel within the city is covered.
Parking at National Museum of Iceland
- On‑site parking: Free parking spaces are available at the museum site.
- Nearby paid parking: Additional parking can be found in the University of Iceland area.
- Parking space may be limited during peak hours; if driving, arrive earlier in the day.
How long to spend at National Museum of Iceland
- Most visitors spend about 1.5 to 3 hours on the permanent exhibitions.
- The museum includes a chronological presentation of Icelandic history from settlement to the present. Consider adding time if you plan to use audio guides or attend temporary exhibitions.
Accessibility at National Museum of Iceland
- The building is wheelchair accessible and has elevators.
- Wheelchairs and strollers are available at reception.
- Audio guides are offered in several languages.
- Designated disabled parking is provided.
Practical visitor tips
- The museum has a café and museum shop; the café typically opens 11am–4pm and the shop 10am–5pm.
- Photography is allowed for personal use in most areas, but flash is discouraged.
- If you want a guided tour, booking in advance is recommended especially for groups.
- Temporary exhibitions change periodically; check the museum’s website before you go.
FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is the National Museum of Iceland suitable for children? | Yes. Children under 18 have free entry and exhibits are generally accessible for families. |
| Do you need to book tickets in advance? | Not usually required; you can buy at the entrance. Advance booking can secure preferred entry times. |
| Is the National Museum of Iceland open on Sundays? | Yes, standard hours (10am–5pm) apply on Sundays. |
| Are bags allowed in the National Museum of Iceland? | Yes, bags are allowed. Photography for personal use is permitted without flash. |
Things to do near the National Museum of Iceland
- The Culture House – Exhibition space with cultural displays.
- Hallgrímskirkja Church – Landmark church within walking distance.
- Tjörnin Pond – Central city pond and walking area.
- Reykjavík Art Museum – Several locations showcasing Icelandic art.
- Settlement Exhibition – Interactive museum about early Icelandic settlers.
Other attractions worth considering in Reykjavik include the Reykjavik Lava Show and Perlan.
Opening hours and ticket prices were checked and updated in January 2026.
More Iceland travel
Other Iceland travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- Snorkelling between two continents in the Silfra Fissure.
- How to spend 24 hours in Reykjavik.
- Do you have to pay to enter Hallgrimskirkja, Reykjavik?
- Guides to the south coast waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss.
- How safe is it to visit the Reynisfjara black sand beach?
