Árbær Open Air Museum
Step back in time at Arbaer Open Air Museum, exploring historic Icelandic homes, farms, and shops.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Árbær Open Air Museum
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Arbaer Open Air Museum, exploring historic Icelandic homes, farms, and shops.
"A wonderful place to observe the daily lives of locals and experience unique historic scents."
🚌 Bus Travel Tips
Bus maps can be confusing; plan your route beforehand. It's a 45-min ride from Reykjavik.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You'll want at least 1.5-3 hours to explore everything. Don't rush the experience!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Icelandic Buildings
Throughout the museum grounds
Wander through relocated homes, a farm, and other structures showcasing Iceland's past.

The Old General Store
Central area of the museum
Discover a charming 'general store' selling Icelandic treats, toys, and games.

Period Costumed Staff
Various exhibits
Engage with staff in character, offering insights into daily life in different eras.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating to Arbaer
Time for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Experience of Árbær Open Air Museum in Iceland
🚌 Bus Travel Tips
Bus maps can be confusing; plan your route beforehand. It's a 45-min ride from Reykjavik.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You'll want at least 1.5-3 hours to explore everything. Don't rush the experience!
how to get to arbaer open air museum by city bus???
Suggestions for daytime Reykjavik
🗣️ English Signage
Most exhibits have English signage, making it accessible for international visitors.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the open-air grounds.
Lesser known activities in/near Reykjavik?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚌 Bus Travel Tips
Bus maps can be confusing; plan your route beforehand. It's a 45-min ride from Reykjavik.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You'll want at least 1.5-3 hours to explore everything. Don't rush the experience!
🗣️ English Signage
Most exhibits have English signage, making it accessible for international visitors.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the open-air grounds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Arbaer Open Air Museum is highly praised for its authentic portrayal of Icelandic history and culture, with visitors appreciating the well-preserved buildings and engaging staff. Some minor drawbacks include occasional building repairs and the potential for confusing bus routes.
"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."
Rebecca Crist
"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."
Dawn Strauss
"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."
Dasha Kopulsky
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Navigating Reykjavik's bus system can be challenging. Travelers recommend planning your route in advance using bus maps. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes from the city center.
Yes, it is possible to reach the museum via public bus from Reykjavik. While bus maps can be confusing, many visitors have successfully navigated their way there.
The primary public transport option is the city bus from Reykjavik. If you have a car, it offers more flexibility, but the bus is a viable and common choice for visitors.
Taxis are available in Reykjavik and can take you directly to the Arbaer Open Air Museum. This is a more convenient but potentially more expensive option than the bus.
By bus, the journey to Arbaer Open Air Museum from downtown Reykjavik typically takes about 45 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official museum website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours before your visit.
Admission fees apply for Arbaer Open Air Museum. While specific prices can change, it's generally considered a reasonably priced attraction for the experience offered. Check their website for current ticket prices.
Booking tickets in advance is usually not required for Arbaer Open Air Museum, especially during off-peak times. However, for peak season or special events, it might be advisable to check their policy.
Discounts may be available for certain groups such as seniors, students, or children. It's recommended to inquire directly with the museum or check their website for any applicable discount programs.
Arbaer Open Air Museum has seasonal opening hours, and some parts may be closed or have limited access during winter months. Always verify their winter operating schedule before planning a visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Arbaer features relocated historic buildings from Iceland, including farmhouses, a church, and a general store. You can explore different time periods and learn about Icelandic heritage.
Most visitors find that 1.5 to 3 hours is sufficient to explore the museum thoroughly. Some have spent up to three hours captivated by the exhibits.
Yes, Arbaer is generally considered family-friendly. Children can enjoy exploring the old buildings and learning about historical life in Iceland.
Guided tours are often available, offering deeper insights into the history and culture. Self-guided exploration is also a popular option, with good signage.
The museum showcases buildings and exhibits representing various historical periods of Icelandic life, from old farm communities to early urban settlements.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum features a charming 'general store' that sells a variety of Icelandic treats, snacks, and souvenirs, offering a taste of local flavors.
While specific picnic areas might not be designated, visitors can typically enjoy their own food on the grounds, especially during warmer months. It's always good to be mindful of keeping the area clean.
The museum itself has a general store with treats. For more substantial meals, you would likely need to travel back towards Reykjavik or find local eateries in the surrounding areas.
The general store offers a delightful selection of Icelandic treats, including traditional sweets, candies, and other local delicacies, perfect for a snack.
Prices at the general store are generally in line with typical tourist attraction pricing. It offers a convenient way to sample local treats during your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Every historic building and the charming general store offer great photo opportunities. The diverse architecture and rural setting provide a picturesque backdrop.
Photography is generally allowed inside the buildings, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific 'no photography' signs within certain exhibits.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the exteriors of the historic buildings. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide lovely, soft light.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites and museums to protect the structures and ensure visitor safety. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide shots of the buildings and details. A prime lens can be useful for low-light interiors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for the general store, which often has interesting items that can capture a child's imagination. The staff in period costumes can also be a highlight, making history more engaging and interactive for younger visitors. It's a great way to introduce kids to Icelandic culture and history in a fun, hands-on way.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Opting for public transport via city bus from Reykjavik is the most economical way to reach the museum, saving on car rental or taxi costs. Packing your own snacks or a picnic lunch can also help keep costs down, though sampling treats from the general store is a worthwhile indulgence.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Icelandic History
The museum's collection is thoughtfully arranged to represent different historical periods and types of dwellings. You can wander through a recreated village, step inside an old church, visit a shoemaker's workshop, and even experience the atmosphere of a historic general store. The staff, often dressed in period costumes, add an extra layer of authenticity, sharing stories and demonstrating traditional crafts. This interactive element makes the history come alive, allowing visitors to connect with the past on a personal level.
Beyond the buildings themselves, Arbaer provides context for the social and economic conditions that shaped Icelandic society. It highlights the resourcefulness and resilience of the Icelandic people in adapting to their environment. Whether you're interested in architecture, social history, or simply want to experience a unique aspect of Icelandic culture, Arbaer Open Air Museum offers a rich and educational outing.
Getting to Arbaer: A Traveler's Guide
Many visitors have successfully navigated the bus system, finding it a feasible and economical way to reach the museum. It's recommended to have your destination clearly in mind and perhaps use a navigation app that integrates public transport. Once you arrive at the museum, you'll find it's a rewarding experience that offers a deep dive into Icelandic heritage.
For those who prefer more direct travel or have mobility concerns, taxis are also an option, though they will be more expensive than the bus. If you are renting a car, Arbaer is easily accessible by road, and there is usually ample parking available. Regardless of your chosen mode of transport, the effort to reach Arbaer is widely considered worthwhile for the unique historical insights it provides.
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