Imagine Peace Tower

The basics

The Imagine Peace Tower’s light shines brightly enough that you’ll be able to see the beams from Reykjavik, but for a closer view it’s better to make the journey to the island. The most convenient way to visit is by taking an island walking tour that includes a boat ride directly from Reykjavik, though you also can get a decent view of the spectacle by hopping on a cruise that gets near the island.

Things to know before you go

• The Imagine Peace Tower is a must-see for fans of The Beatles and John Lennon, as well as people interested in public art or lighting design.

• Make sure to bundle up for your visit, as the island can get chilly and windy.

• A wheelchair-accessible path leads to the monument, and there are accessible toilets on the island, near Videy House.

How to get there

The Imagine Peace Tower is located on Videy Island, about a 20-minute ferry ride from Skarfabakki Harbor near Reykjavik. The ferry runs year-round, with increased service from the middle of May through the end of September. The easiest way to get to the ferry terminal from Reykjavik is by taking a 15-minute taxi journey, but there are a few city buses, including line 12, that will drop you within walking distance of the harbor.

When to get there

The Imagine Peace Tower is lit up on October 9, John Lennon’s birthday, and stays illuminated until December 8th, which marks the anniversary of his death. Its beams also light up the sky on other days of the year, including Ono’s birthday (February 8), solstices, and New Year’s Eve. The Videy House Restaurant on the island sometimes also stages special events, such as Lennon tribute concerts.

Other things to do on Videy Island

There’s plenty to see on the island beyond the Imagine Peace Tower, particularly if you come earlier in the day. Explore the network of hiking and biking trails, which provide ample opportunities for birdwatching, before grabbing a meal at the Videy House Restaurant. The restaurant is housed in an 18th-century building that’s believed to be the first stone-and-cement structure in the country.

Ways to explore

The Imagine Peace Tower only emits light for some parts of the year and, since you can see the beams from most of Reykjavik, not that many travelers make the trip out to Videy Island—though art lovers will be pleased to know it also houses Áfangar, a basalt installation by Richard Serra. You can visit Videy Island on a northern lights tour, a Jet Ski adventure, or a dedicated Imagine Peace Tower boat trip: These run after dark during periods when the light beams are switched on.

Accessibility

There is a well-made path to the monument and adapted bathrooms on Videy Island, but most boats that make the trip, including the ferry, are not wheelchair-friendly.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Photographers should bring a tripod for night shots.

What to wear

The Imagine Peace Tower operates at cold times of year, after dark, and Videy Island can be windy. Warm winter clothing—including gloves, a hat, and ear protection—is essential.

Not allowed

If you’re visiting by Jet Ski, keep your dry suit zipped: Wet base layers are a disaster.

Amenities

Videy Island has food options daily in the summer, but only on weekends in the winter—and only during daylight hours. Restrooms are available year-round.

Address

The Imagine Peace Tower is on Videy Island, an islet just off the coast of Reykjavik by Skarfabakki Harbour.

Driving

There are no roads on Videy Island, and the ferry does not take cars.

Public transportation

Regular ferry services cover the 5-minute trip between Skarfabakki Harbour and Videy Island seven days a week during the summer season (mid-May through August); in the winter, the ferries only run on the weekends. The tower is a short walk from the ferry pier, but, unfortunately, you can only take the ferry during daylight hours, so consider visiting on a tour.

Best times to visit

Starting about an hour after sunset, the Imagine Peace Tower lights up till midnight most nights when the beam is activated. On October 9, it lights up at 8pm and remains lit until sunrise; on March 20–27, it lights up at 9pm; on New Year’s Eve, it gleams until sunrise; and on February 18, it remains lit until sunrise.

Best days to visit

With the exception of October 9, Videy Island is not busy at night. Book your tour on an evening that works for you.

Best months to visit

The Imagine Peace Tower is lit October 9–December 8 (from Lennon’s birthday to the anniversary of his death), December 21–31 (the Christmas and New Year season), February 18 (Ono’s birthday), and March 20–27 (John and Yoko’s honeymoon, which is also the week of the spring equinox).

Special events

On October 9 each year, a ceremony is held that culminates in the lighting of the tower, with music, speeches, and other activities. Special free ferries run on that day, but prebooking is essential.