Viking World

The Basics

Visitors who come to admire the Viking ship can discover more about Iceland’s fascinating Viking history through a series of exhibits covering the Viking expansion across the North Atlantic, the settlement of Iceland, and Norse mythology and myths. Sightseeing tours of the Reykanes Peninsula usually make a stop at the museum, between visits to the “bridge between continents” at nearby Sandvik and the fishing village of Grindavik.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Viking World is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

• The museum café offers spectacular views over the harbor.

• The museum and café are wheelchair-accessible.

• There is free Wi-Fi throughout the building.

• There is an admission fee, but children under 14 get in free.

How to Get There

Viking World is located in Reykjanesbaer, around 40 minutes’ drive southwest of Reykjavik. Bus No. 55 from Reykjavik’s City Hall stops in Tjarnarhverfi, a 15-minute walk from the museum. It’s just 10 minutes’ drive from Keflavik International Airport, making it a great final stop before boarding your flight home. Alternatively, skip the hassle by visiting on a sightseeing tour.

When to Get There

The museum is open seven days a week, from 7am to 6pm.

Museum Architecture

The museum’s strikingly sleek and modern building is easily spotted from the road. The exhibition hall, which is framed around theIcelander boat, was designed by the award-winning Icelandic architect Gudmundur Jonsson. The design highlights the skillfully crafted boat, which is displayed so that visitors can look at the ship from all angles and even step onto the deck.

Ways to explore

Set aside an hour to explore the Viking World museum, which includes the Smithsonian-produced Vikings of the North Atlantic exhibition, an exhibition on the settlement of Iceland and the Viking Age, and, of course, the chance to admire the Icelander up close.

The Viking World museum is often paired with a sightseeing tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula, between visits to the “bridge between continents” at nearby Sandvik, the fishing village of Grindavik, or the nearby Blue Lagoon. Located right by Keflavík airport, it also makes a popular stop for travelers on their way to or from Reykjavik.

Accessibility

The museum is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers with elevator access to the top floor and a ramp to the boat.

Age limits

None; kids will love climbing on board the ship; children under 12 can visit for free, but must be accompanied by an adult

What to pack

Camera, reusable water bottle

What to wear

Comfortable clothes and flat shoes for exploring the Viking ship

Not allowed

Large bags and suitcases, pets except for service dogs

Amenities

Café, gift shop, free Wi-Fi, cloakroom

Address

Viking World is located in Reykjanesbaer, about a 40-minute drive southwest of Reykjavik or about a 10-minute drive from Keflavik International Airport. You can reach the museum by car, taxi, or bus.

Driving

From Keflavik International Airport, take Road 41 towards Reykjavik and turn left onto Stekkur, signposted for the museum Víkingabraut and Njarðvík village. There is free parking outside the museum.

Public transportation

Bus No. 55 runs between Reykjavik and the airport; get off at the Njarðvíkurtorg stop in Keflavík city center, from where you can either walk 2 miles (3 kilometers) or take bus R2 to the Stekkjarkot stop, which is close to the museum.

Best times to visit

Viking World is generally open from 9am to 4pm, although opening times may vary throughout the year. It’s worth timing your visit to include breakfast or a light lunch at the glass-fronted café, which affords views over Faxaflói Bay.

Best days to visit

The museum is open daily and, thanks to its proximity to the airport, you can visit on the day of your arrival or departure. Weekends tend to be busiest, so plan a weekday visit for a quieter experience.

Best months to visit

The museum can be visited year-round, and the exhibitions are all indoors, so it’s a great spot to escape the cold in winter.