Canonical URL: https://www.iceland.org/museums/national-museum Content updated: 2026-09-10 This is the Markdown representation of the page. Interactive tools and forms are available on the [HTML page](). Source-check and review dates retain the meanings stated in the article. --- # National Museum of Iceland Iceland's main history museum, covering the nation's story from Viking settlement to the present through over 2,000 artifacts. Updated September 10, 2026 · [Published by Iceland.org]() · [Writing & review]() Location Reykjavík Suðurgata 41 • Near University of Iceland ## Quick Answer The National Museum in Reykjavík traces 1,200 years of Icelandic history from Viking settlement to today. Highlights include a Thor figurine from around 1000 AD. The National Museum of Iceland (Þjóðminjasafn Íslands) is the country's principal repository of cultural heritage, located on Suðurgata in central Reykjavík near the University of Iceland campus. Founded in 1863, the museum houses a collection spanning from the earliest Norse settlements around 870 AD to the 21st century. The permanent exhibition, "Making of a Nation," guides visitors chronologically through Icelandic history using original artifacts, multimedia displays, and reconstructed environments. Sources and page update Updated: 2026-09-10 This guide is a travel-planning summary, not emergency guidance. Conditions in Iceland can change quickly; check official alerts, roads, and weather before driving, hiking, or booking around volatile conditions. For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy. Official sources to check - [National Museum official site]() - [Visit Reykjavík]() - [Visit Iceland]() Admission 3,300 ISK Adult admission checked September 10, 2026. Under 18s enter free Opening Hours 10:00–17:00 Daily in summer. Reduced hours and closed Mondays in winter Visit Duration 1.5–2.5 hours Planning estimate for the permanent exhibition ## What to Expect ### Viking-Age Artifacts Swords, jewelry, tools, and household items from the Norse settlement period around 870–1000 AD ### Thor Figurine A rare bronze statuette of the Norse god Thor dating to around 1000 AD, one of the museum's most treasured objects ### Valþjófsstaður Door An intricately carved medieval church door from around 1200 AD depicting the legend of a knight and a lion ### Traditional Costumes Collection of Icelandic national dress and textiles showing the evolution of clothing over centuries ### Making of a Nation The permanent exhibition tracing Iceland's history from Norse settlement through Danish rule to independence ### Temporary Exhibitions Rotating exhibits on specific themes in Icelandic culture, art, and archaeology ## Plan your route and leave bags in the cloakroom The [National Museum]() lists elevators in the lobby and exhibition, wheelchairs at reception, and a basement cloakroom with lockers reachable by elevator or stairs. These details help if you are carrying luggage or need to manage stairs and standing time. Children’s audio guides are available in English and Icelandic. The operator’s admission information, checked September 10, 2026, lists adults at 3,300 ISK, students and seniors at 1,600 ISK, and free admission for visitors under 18 and people with disabilities. Those categories can change a family’s budget more than a single headline adult price. Check the applicable ticket category when booking. ## Getting There The National Museum is located at Suðurgata 41, a 15-minute walk from Hallgrímskirkja or a 10-minute walk from the city centre. Reykjavík city buses stop nearby, and the museum is included in the Reykjavík City Card which also covers bus fare. Limited street parking is available on Suðurgata, with additional parking near the University of Iceland campus. ## Best Time to Visit The museum is open year-round and is a reliable option in any weather. Rainy or windy days are a good time to visit, since everything is indoors. Check the website for any seasonal closures around public holidays. Planning help ## National Museum FAQs Quick answers with safety notes where it matters. **How long does it take to visit the National Museum of Iceland?** Allow 1.5–2.5 hours as a planning estimate, with longer for close reading. The museum lists elevators in the lobby and exhibition, plus a basement cloakroom accessible by elevator or stairs. Use those facilities to plan breaks and where to leave bags. **Is the National Museum suitable for children?** Yes, the museum offers a dedicated children's area with hands-on activities and interactive displays. Children under 18 enter free of charge. The Viking-age artifacts and reconstructed historical objects tend to hold younger visitors' attention. **What is the most important artifact in the museum?** The museum's most prized artifact is a small bronze figure of Thor, dating to around 1000 AD, found at Eyjafjörður in North Iceland. Other highlights include the Valþjófsstaður church door (c. 1200), medieval manuscripts, and a collection of traditional Icelandic costumes. **Can I visit the National Museum with a Reykjavík City Card?** Yes, the Reykjavík City Card includes free admission to the National Museum of Iceland along with many other museums, galleries, and swimming pools in the capital area. The card is available in 24-, 48-, or 72-hour options. [Back to Museums]() Country reference: [Iceland statistics]().