Old Harbour & Sculpture and Shore Walk, Reykjavik - Image 1
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Old Harbour Sculpture and Shore Walk Reykjavik

4.8
·25 reviews·Reykjavík, Iceland

A scenic 3.5-mile coastal path in Reykjavik featuring diverse sculptures, most notably the iconic Sun Voyager, offering breathtaking ocean views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Golden hour (sunrise/sunset)

Magical light for photos

CrowdMedium
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Old Harbour & Sculpture and Shore Walk, Reykjavik - Image 1

Old Harbour Sculpture and Shore Walk Reykjavik

Best Time

Golden hour (sunrise/sunset)

Magical light for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A scenic 3.5-mile coastal path in Reykjavik featuring diverse sculptures, most notably the iconic Sun Voyager, offering breathtaking ocean views.

4.8
(25 reviews)

"Reykjavik’s most scenic walk, dotted with art and overlooking the vast Atlantic Ocean."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧥 Dress for the Wind

Reykjavik's coast is windy! Pack layers and a windproof jacket for comfort. :cloud:

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking along the shore. Good shoes are essential for this scenic path. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Sun Voyager

The Sun Voyager

North shore of Reykjavik

An iconic steel sculpture resembling a Viking ship, symbolizing hope and freedom, with stunning ocean views.

Sculpture and Shore Walk

Sculpture and Shore Walk

Coastal path along Reykjavik's north shore

A scenic 3.5-mile pedestrian path dotted with diverse artworks, offering panoramic sea views and fresh air.

Islandsvarden Sculpture

Islandsvarden Sculpture

North side of Reykjavik

A striking bronze sculpture by Johann Eyfells, resembling volcanic rock formations overlooking the ocean.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Elements

Reykjavik's coast can be surprisingly windy and chilly, even in summer. Dress in layers and wear windproof outerwear. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the shore walk and appreciating the sculptures.

Timing is Key for Views

While the Sculpture and Shore Walk is accessible anytime, visiting during the 'golden hour' before sunset or early morning offers the most dramatic light for photos of the Sun Voyager and surrounding landscapes. Check sunset times to maximize your experience.

Best Times

When
Golden hour (sunrise/sunset)
Why
Magical light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Clear mornings
Why
See distant glaciers
Crowd
Low
When
Anytime on a nice day
Why
Enjoy the sea breeze
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

the most precious at @The Heart of Reykjavik
@ragnhildur.johanns
19.7K likes • 169.5K views

🧥 Dress for the Wind

Reykjavik's coast is windy! Pack layers and a windproof jacket for comfort. :cloud:

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking along the shore. Good shoes are essential for this scenic path. :athletic_shoe:

Replying to @thecloseddoor How to spend the perfect 24 hours in Reykjavik, Iceland! 🇮🇸 #travel #icelandtravel #icelanditinerary #thingstodoinreykjavik #traveliceland
@saradaviestravel
14.4K likes • 338.5K views
• 𝒜 𝓈𝒾𝓃𝑔𝓁𝑒 𝓉𝑜𝓊𝒸𝒽 𝑜𝒻 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓂 𝓉𝒶𝓀𝑒𝓈 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝒶 𝓂𝒾𝓁𝓁𝒾𝑜𝓃 𝓈𝓉𝒶𝓇𝓈 𝒶𝓌𝒶𝓎, 𝓇𝑜𝑜𝓉𝑒𝒹 𝑜𝓃 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝑒𝒶𝓇𝓉𝒽, 𝒮𝓆𝓊𝑒𝑒𝓏𝑒 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝒹𝑒𝓁𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉, 𝐸𝓂𝒷𝓇𝒶𝒸𝑒, 𝓂𝒶𝒾𝓃𝓉𝒶𝒾𝓃𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓅𝑒𝓇𝒻𝑒𝒸𝓉 𝓈𝒽𝒶𝓅𝑒𝓈 #photogrammetry #speculativesealife #digitalart
miu_._._._
639 likes • 0 views

📸 Golden Hour Magic

Visit during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking light on the Sun Voyager sculpture. :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Leisurely Stroll

Take your time to enjoy the art and the vast Atlantic views. It's a peaceful escape. :walking:

🗓 Feb 2016 🇮🇸 Islandsvarden, a bronze sculpture by Reykjavík-born artist Johann Eyfells, overlooks the ocean on the north side of the city. This sculpture resembles a triangular formation of volcanic rock. It is set on a pile of rocks. It is dated 2003-2006. The name "Islandsvarden" does not evoke a translation on Google Translate 🇮🇸 • • • • • #reykjavikcity #reykjaviklife #reykjavík #reykjaviklov...
alex.g.ponomarenko
273 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🧥 Dress for the Wind

Reykjavik's coast is windy! Pack layers and a windproof jacket for comfort. :cloud:

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking along the shore. Good shoes are essential for this scenic path. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Golden Hour Magic

Visit during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking light on the Sun Voyager sculpture. :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Leisurely Stroll

Take your time to enjoy the art and the vast Atlantic views. It's a peaceful escape. :walking:

🚲 Cycle Lanes Available

The path has excellent cycle lanes, perfect for a bike ride if you prefer. :bicycle:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(25 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Sculpture and Shore Walk as Reykjavik's most scenic and enjoyable coastal path. The iconic Sun Voyager sculpture is a major draw, offering stunning views and photo opportunities. While some find it windy, most appreciate the fresh sea air and the diverse artworks scattered along the well-maintained route.

"If you love the sea, you must visit the seaside of Reykjavík and deep breath the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean along its coast."

Agnese Caramanico

"Easy pedestrian friendly-path approximately 3.5 miles long with various works of sculptures along the north shore of Reykjavik. This has to be Reykjavik’s most scenic walks in the city. If you have the time this is an enjoyable walk. The most popular and most photographic sculpture is the Sun Voyager sculpture that overlooks Kollafjörður fjord."

Maria Pellini

"Lovely walk along the sea front. Relaxing on a nice day but even when it's snowing its really nice too."

jay jay 4gb

What People Like

Iconic Sun Voyager sculpture
Scenic coastal views
Free public art

What People Dislike

Can be very windy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Sculpture and Shore Walk is easily accessible from the Old Harbour area of Reykjavik. You can walk from the city center, or take a local bus. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from downtown hotels. TikTok

Yes, there are parking areas available near the Old Harbour and along the waterfront. However, it's often easier and more enjoyable to walk or use public transport if you're staying in the city center. TikTok

Absolutely! The shore walk stretches for about 3.5 miles, and you can join it at various points along Reykjavik's north coast, particularly near the Old Harbour. Reddit

Yes, several bus routes stop near the Old Harbour, providing easy access to the start of the shore walk. It's a convenient option if you're not driving. TikTok

The entire path is approximately 3.5 miles (5.6 km) long. Walking at a leisurely pace, it can take around 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, not including time spent admiring the sculptures. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Sculpture and Shore Walk is a public area and is completely free to access. You can enjoy the art and the scenery at any time without charge. TikTok

The shore walk is open 24/7, as it's an outdoor public space. The sculptures are always on display, though visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience. Reddit

While there aren't official guided tours specifically for the shore walk sculptures, free walking tours of Reykjavik often include this area and highlight key artworks. TikTok

No, the Sun Voyager sculpture is a public art installation and is free to view and photograph. Reddit

Yes, you can visit the sculptures at night, but they may not be illuminated, making them harder to see. The experience is best enjoyed during daylight hours. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The 'golden hour' just before sunset and the early morning light offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photographing the Sun Voyager and the coastline. Instagram

The Sun Voyager is by far the most popular and photogenic sculpture, offering stunning reflections and backdrops of the ocean and mountains. Reddit

No, photography is generally encouraged. However, always be respectful of other visitors and the art itself. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and sculptures. A tripod can be useful for low-light photography during golden hour. Instagram

Drone usage in Reykjavik is subject to regulations. It's best to check local bylaws and ensure you have any necessary permits before flying a drone near public areas. TikTok

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

It's a beautiful, well-maintained coastal path with diverse sculptures, offering stunning views of the ocean, mountains, and the city skyline. It's a peaceful yet vibrant place to explore. Reddit

The walk is approximately 3.5 miles (5.6 km) long, providing a substantial route for walking, jogging, or cycling. Reddit

While there are no dedicated facilities directly on the path, you'll find restrooms and cafes near the Old Harbour at the start of the walk. TikTok

Yes, the path is generally smooth and well-paved, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Reddit

You'll find a variety of modern and abstract sculptures, with the most famous being the Sun Voyager. Other notable pieces include Islandsvarden. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Old Harbour area, which is adjacent to the walk, has numerous restaurants and cafes offering various cuisines. TikTok

For a quick bite, try Vikinga Pylsur for hot dogs or Deig Bakery for donuts. For pizza, Baka Baka is highly recommended. TikTok

Absolutely! Many visitors pack snacks and drinks to enjoy while taking in the views along the shore. TikTok

While there are no designated picnic tables, the grassy areas and benches offer pleasant spots to sit and enjoy a packed meal with a view. Reddit

Reykjavik can be expensive, but budget-friendly options like hot dog stands and bakeries are available. Sit-down restaurants tend to be pricier. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Sculpture and Shore Walk is a fantastic, free activity for families. The wide, paved path is perfect for strollers and little legs that want to run. Kids often enjoy the interactive nature of the sculptures, especially the Sun Voyager, which sparks imagination about Viking ships and sea adventures. TikTok

Bring snacks and drinks, as there are plenty of spots to sit and enjoy a picnic with a view. The open space allows children to explore safely while parents can relax and take in the stunning coastal scenery. It's a great way to combine a bit of culture with outdoor fun. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

This entire experience is completely free, making it a top choice for budget-conscious travelers. You can spend hours walking, admiring art, and enjoying the ocean views without spending a dime. TikTok

Pack your own snacks and water to save on costs. The walk is easily accessible from the city center, so you can save on transportation too. It’s a perfect way to experience Reykjavik’s beauty and culture on a shoestring budget. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Sculpture and Shore Walk is a dream location. The Sun Voyager sculpture is particularly iconic, offering incredible shots during the golden hour for dramatic lighting. Instagram+1

Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive ocean views and the scale of the sculptures. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light conditions. Don't forget to explore the other artworks along the path, as they offer unique compositions and perspectives. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Sun Voyager

The Sun Voyager (Sólfar) is arguably the most recognizable sculpture along Reykjavik's shore. Created by Jón Gunnar Árnason, it's an ode to the sun, a symbol of hope, progress, and freedom. Its steel structure is designed to resemble a Viking ship, evoking Iceland's historical connection to exploration and discovery. The sculpture is strategically placed to face the setting sun, creating a breathtaking spectacle during golden hour. Many visitors find it a deeply moving and inspiring piece of art. TikTokReddit

Its placement on the waterfront offers unobstructed views of the surrounding bay, Mount Esja, and on clear days, even the distant Snæfellsjökull glacier. The interplay of light and shadow on the polished steel, especially at sunrise and sunset, makes it a photographer's dream. The sculpture's open design invites contemplation and a sense of connection to the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean. Instagram

Many social media posts highlight the Sun Voyager as a must-see landmark in Reykjavik, often featuring it as the centerpiece of their travel photos. Its enduring popularity speaks to its artistic merit and its powerful symbolism for both locals and tourists. TikTokInstagram

Exploring the Art-Filled Shore Walk

Beyond the Sun Voyager, the Sculpture and Shore Walk is a curated outdoor gallery featuring a variety of artistic expressions. The approximately 3.5-mile path is designed to be a pleasant journey, encouraging visitors to engage with art while enjoying the coastal scenery. Each sculpture offers a unique perspective, from abstract forms to pieces inspired by nature and Icelandic culture. Reddit

One such piece is Islandsvarden, a bronze sculpture by Johann Eyfells that resembles volcanic rock formations. Its placement on a pile of rocks overlooking the ocean adds to its dramatic presence. Instagram The walk itself is a testament to Reykjavik's commitment to public art, transforming the coastline into an accessible and engaging cultural experience. The well-maintained path, complete with dedicated cycle lanes, ensures a comfortable experience for all visitors, whether they are strolling, jogging, or cycling. Reddit

Travelers often share their discoveries of these hidden artistic gems along the walk, emphasizing the joy of stumbling upon new pieces. The combination of art, sea air, and panoramic views makes the Sculpture and Shore Walk a truly unique and enriching experience in Reykjavik. TikTokInstagram

Practicalities of the Coastal Path

The Sculpture and Shore Walk is celebrated for its accessibility and user-friendliness. The path is smooth, well-paved, and wide enough to accommodate pedestrians and cyclists comfortably. This makes it an ideal location for a leisurely stroll, a morning jog, or a scenic bike ride. Reddit

Reykjavik's coastal weather can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers and wearing windproof clothing is highly recommended, even during warmer months. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for enjoying the full length of the walk. While there are no direct facilities along the entire stretch, amenities like restrooms and cafes are readily available near the Old Harbour, which serves as a primary access point. TikTok

Many visitors appreciate the ease with which they can access and enjoy this beautiful part of the city. The walk offers a refreshing escape from the urban bustle, providing a chance to connect with nature and art in a serene environment. InstagramReddit