capital region
Listasafn Íslands — National Gallery of Iceland
About Listasafn Íslands — National Gallery of Iceland
The National Gallery of Iceland is the country's primary institution for the visual arts, with a mandate to collect, preserve and exhibit Icelandic and international fine art for the benefit of the public. Founded in 1884, the gallery initially operated in various temporary spaces before its current purpose-built home on Fríkirkjuvegur opened in 1988. The building's clean white architecture and glass facades provide an elegant setting for the 10,000-plus works in the permanent collection. Highlights include the complete holdings of founding father of Icelandic painting Ásgrímur Jónsson, the beloved landscape paintings of Jóhannes Kjarval, and a growing international collection that places Icelandic art in global context. Temporary exhibitions bring world-class contemporary art to Reykjavík.
🐉 Where Iceland's Soul Is Painted
The gallery preserves the visual soul of Iceland — centuries of artists trying to capture the country's unearthly light, volcanic drama and human resilience on canvas.
📖 History of Listasafn Íslands — National Gallery of Iceland
The National Gallery was established by the Icelandic parliament in 1884, though a permanent home eluded the institution for over a century. The collection was housed in Þjóðminjasafnið and various borrowed spaces before the current Fríkirkjuvegur building was completed in 1988. The architect Rögnvaldur Ólafsson designed the striking modernist structure that has become one of the most recognisable cultural buildings in Iceland.
💡 Did You Know?
Jóhannes Kjarval, Iceland's most beloved painter, is said to have painted over 1,000 works — a large portion of which are in this collection.
Key Facts
Founded 1884, current building opened 1988
Over 10,000 works in permanent collection
Located on Fríkirkjuvegur next to Tjörnin lake
Features Iceland's most important painters incl. Kjarval and Ásgrímur
Free on certain days / reduced admission for students
💎 Hidden Gems
The Kjarval Room
The permanent Kjarval collection is one of the most moving in the building — his textured, almost abstract landscapes capture the Icelandic highlands like no photograph can.
Lakeside Terrace
The café terrace overlooking Tjörnin is one of the most peaceful spots in central Reykjavík, especially on a summer evening.
🕐 Best Time
Weekday mornings for fewer crowds
🚗 Access
Fríkirkjuvegur 7, central Reykjavík
⏱ Duration
1–2 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entry fee?▾
Yes, around 1,600 ISK for adults. Under 18 free. Check listasafn.is for current prices.
How long should I plan for a visit?▾
1–2 hours for the permanent collection, longer if there are temporary exhibitions.
📍 GPS Location
Book a Tour to Listasafn Íslands — National Gallery of Iceland
Find guided tours, day trips and activities. Compare prices and book instantly with free cancellation.
🌌 See the Northern Lights
Track real-time aurora activity and plan your Northern Lights trip with AuroraVision.