Árbær Open Air Museum
A living village of 20+ historic Icelandic buildings — step into life as it was 100 years ago.
About
About Árbær Open Air Museum
A living village of 20+ historic Icelandic buildings — step into life as it was 100 years ago.
One of the most immersive museums in Iceland: actors in period costume, live animals and beautifully preserved turf and timber houses.
Background
History & Background
Árbær Open Air Museum has been a significant site in Iceland's landscape. Throughout the years, this location has played an important role in Icelandic culture and natural history.
Árbær Open Air Museum recreates historical Icelandic life with preserved buildings, including turf houses and farm structures. Visitors can walk through history and experience how people lived in earlier centuries.
Folklore
Story & Folklore
Árbæjarsafn Open Air Museum began with a single turf farmhouse in the 1950s and has grown into a collection of over 20 relocated buildings spanning centuries of Reykjavík history. Every summer the site comes alive with guided tours, craft demonstrations and occasional folk concerts. Children adore the resident farm animals — sheep, chickens and horses — that roam freely between the historic structures. It sits in the quiet Árbær district, just 10 minutes by car from central Reykjavík.
💡 Did You Know?
Árbær includes a genuine Viking longhouse framework, a 19th-century general store and even a 1950s-era street complete with period cars.
Local Legend
Legends of Árbær Open Air Museum
Árbær Open Air Museum has been part of Icelandic folklore for generations. Local tales speak of hidden people (huldufólk) and other supernatural beings who inhabit the area. According to tradition, this place deserves respect and visitors should be mindful of the ancient spirits who call it home.
Experiences
Tours Near Árbær Open Air Museum
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
Culture
Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Gufunes
Gufunes is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Egils saga", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Reykjavík
Reykjavík is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Harðar saga og Hólmverja", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Skuggabaldur – The Shadow Creature
Skuggabaldur: A phantom dog guarding forgotten paths.
Höfði House – Reykjavík's Haunted Mansion
Höfði House: Reykjavík's historic mansion with a chilling paranormal past.
Explore
Hidden Gems Nearby
✦ Talk to the Staff
Museum staff at Árbær Open Air Museum are often incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about their subject.
They can share stories and insights not found in the exhibits, and may point you to related sites in the area.
✦ Gift Shop Treasures
Icelandic museum shops often carry unique locally-made items and books not available elsewhere.
You'll find authentic Icelandic crafts, design items, and publications that make meaningful souvenirs.
✦ Combine with Nearby Sites
Ask about related attractions in the area to create a themed day trip.
Many museums are located near the historical sites or landscapes they document, creating a richer overall experience.
Help
Frequently Asked Questions
Location
📍 Location
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