reykjavik · Iceland
Viðey
About Viðey
Viðey is a small island located just off the coast of Reykjavík. Easily accessible by ferry, it offers a unique combination of history, art, and natural beauty within a short distance from the city. The island is home to several historical sites, including Viðeyjarstofa, one of the oldest stone buildings in Iceland, and Viðey Church. It also features outdoor artworks, most notably the Imagine Peace Tower, which illuminates the sky as a symbol of peace. Visitors can explore walking paths across the island, enjoy views over Reykjavík and Faxaflói bay, and experience a quiet environment free from urban traffic.
History & Background
Viðey has been inhabited since the early settlement of Iceland and became an important center of farming and trade during the following centuries. In the 18th century, the construction of Viðeyjarstofa marked a significant step in Iceland’s architectural and administrative development as one of the country’s first stone buildings. Over time, the island’s population declined, and it eventually became uninhabited. Today, Viðey is preserved as a cultural and recreational site, known for its historical landmarks and modern art installations, including the Imagine Peace Tower, which reflects its continued cultural relevance.
Did You Know?
- ✔Viðey offers hikers a chance to explore Iceland's terrain
- ✔Proper footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended
- ✔Check trail conditions before setting out, especially in winter
Tours Near Viðey
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
Why Visit
Visit Viðey to enjoy a peaceful escape from Reykjavík, where walking paths, historic landmarks, and unique art installations like the Imagine Peace Tower come together in a scenic island setting.
Did You Know?
The Imagine Peace Tower, created by Yoko Ono, lights up every year between October and December in memory of John Lennon.
A historic island off Reykjavík, Viðey blends Icelandic heritage, scenic walking paths, and modern art in a peaceful setting.
Just off the coast of Reykjavík, Viðey has long been a place where history and nature come together. Once home to farms and one of Iceland’s early centres of trade and administration, the island played an important role in the country’s development. Over time, as life shifted back to the mainland, Viðey became quieter, transforming into a place of reflection and exploration. Today, visitors arrive by ferry to walk across open landscapes, visit historic buildings like Viðeyjarstofa, and experience the island’s calm atmosphere. The presence of modern artworks, especially the Imagine Peace Tower, adds a contemporary layer to the island’s story, connecting its long past with present-day cultural expression. Viðey remains a unique destination where history, art, and nature coexist just minutes from the city.
📖 Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Practical Information
Best Time
Daytime is ideal, especially in good weather for walking and views. Evening visits are also popular when the Imagine Peace Tower is illuminated (seasonal).
Duration
1.5–3 hours depending on how much of the island you explore, including walking paths and historical sites.
Access
Accessible by ferry from Reykjavík (typically from Skarfabakki or the Old Harbour). No cars are allowed on the island, so visitors explore on foot.
