National Gallery of Iceland
Discover 19th & 20th-century Icelandic art across two captivating locations in Reykjavik.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art immersion
National Gallery of Iceland
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art immersion
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover 19th & 20th-century Icelandic art across two captivating locations in Reykjavik.
"Pleasantly surprised by the quality and variety of Icelandic art across both locations."
🎟️ Ticket for Two Locations
Your ticket covers both the main gallery and the Culture House, offering double the art for one price!
⏰ Quick Visit Possible
The main gallery is quite small, often viewable in under an hour.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Icelandic Modern Art
Main Gallery & Culture House
Explore captivating 19th and 20th-century artworks by talented Icelandic artists.
Arctic Themed Exhibitions
Main Gallery
Discover thoughtfully presented exhibitions focusing on Icelandic and Arctic themes.
The Culture House Collection
Culture House
Experience a more extensive collection of Icelandic art in this historic library building.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Two Locations, One Ticket
Timing is Key for Art Lovers
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Museums of Reykjavik
🎟️ Ticket for Two Locations
Your ticket covers both the main gallery and the Culture House, offering double the art for one price!
⏰ Quick Visit Possible
The main gallery is quite small, often viewable in under an hour.
Contemporary art
Museums / Shops
🏛️ Culture House is Larger
If you love art, dedicate more time to the Culture House for its bigger collection.
🎨 Kid-Friendly Corner
A small drawing area is available for children at the main gallery.
Museum recommendations in Reykjavik.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Ticket for Two Locations
Your ticket covers both the main gallery and the Culture House, offering double the art for one price!
⏰ Quick Visit Possible
The main gallery is quite small, often viewable in under an hour.
🏛️ Culture House is Larger
If you love art, dedicate more time to the Culture House for its bigger collection.
🎨 Kid-Friendly Corner
A small drawing area is available for children at the main gallery.
💳 City Card Value
Consider this if you have a Reykjavik City Card for added value.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the National Gallery of Iceland to be a worthwhile cultural experience, particularly for its focus on Icelandic art. While the main gallery is noted for being small, the combined ticket with the Culture House offers substantial value and a more comprehensive art immersion. The quality of exhibitions is often praised, making it a pleasant surprise for art lovers.
"Small museum that houses a few changing exhibitions - the permanent collection is at the other location. The three exhibitions we saw we're all Icelandic / arctic themed and were very well presented. As a couple that often travels to see art exhibitions we were pleasantly surprised at the quality and variety. Definitely worth a few hours."
Seth Osher
"The National Gallery of Iceland is an art museum which is shared across two locations. This is the main gallery located in the early 20th-century ice house building along Fríkirkjuvegur street facing Tjörnin Lake.
The second location, makes use of the Culture House (also referred to as the House of Collections), early 20th-century library on Hverfisgata street just a few minutes walk from here. Opening hours are 10am to 5pm daily while entry ticket (2400kr for adults, 1200kr students) provides access to both locations as well.
We visited both the National Gallery of Iceland and the House of Collections during a recent visit to Iceland. Both focus on 19th and 20th century artworks by Icelandic artists which are spaced out across several floors within the two museums. The House of Culture location contains a much larger collection. We found the exhibitions at both museums interesting and worth visiting for art lovers who plan to spend time sightseeing around Reykjavik."
Brad
"Whether you are an art enthusiast or not, visiting an art gallery when you find yourself in another country is part of the cultural exploration.
I visited the National Galery of Iceland a few days ago. The gallery had 3 different exhibitions of modern art, and I was able to view all exhibits and read about the artists in less than an hour. As I am not an art critic, I cannot comment on the exhibits, but on the overall experience: it was fine, but I would expect more. With this being the national gallery, I would expect to see some sections with permanent collections and some temporary ones - to be fair, both aforementioned categories existed but with limited exhibits. There is also a cafeteria and a small area for kids to draw together with the cloakroom. Nevertheless, if you buy a city card, I would suggest putting this as part of your places to visit within the 24/48-hour window available."
George Papavasileiou
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Gallery of Iceland has two locations. The main gallery is located at Fríkirkjuvegur street, facing Tjörnin Lake. The second location, the Culture House, is a short walk away on Hverfisgata street. Both are easily accessible on foot within Reykjavik's city center.
Parking in Reykjavik city center can be challenging and often paid. It's generally recommended to walk or use public transport if you're not staying nearby.
Yes, the main gallery and the Culture House are within a few minutes' walking distance of each other, making it easy to visit both.
From Keflavík International Airport (KEF), you can take a bus service (like Flybus or Airport Direct) to Reykjavik's central bus terminal (BSÍ) and then walk or take a short taxi ride to the gallery.
Yes, both locations are well-served by Reykjavik's public bus system, with several routes stopping nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
As of recent information, adult tickets are around 2400 ISK, and student tickets are 1200 ISK. This ticket grants access to both the main gallery and the Culture House.
While not always strictly necessary, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season, can save you time and guarantee entry. Check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
Both locations typically open from 10 am to 5 pm daily. It's always a good idea to verify the current hours on their official website before your visit.
Student tickets are available at a reduced price. While specific senior or child discounts aren't always highlighted, it's worth inquiring at the ticket counter or checking their website.
Information on free admission days is not widely publicized. It's best to check the gallery's official website or contact them directly for any special offers or free entry periods.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
The gallery focuses on 19th and 20th-century artworks by Icelandic artists. You'll find a mix of modern art, with temporary exhibitions often exploring Icelandic and Arctic themes.
The main gallery is quite small and can be seen in under an hour. However, to fully appreciate both locations, including the larger collection at the Culture House, plan for 2-3 hours.
Information on regular guided tours is not always readily available. It's recommended to check the gallery's official website or inquire upon arrival for any available tour options or audio guides.
Yes, there is a cafeteria at the main gallery location, offering a place to relax and refresh.
Yes, there is a small area for children to draw at the main gallery. The art itself might be more appreciated by older children and adults.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted, but it's crucial to check for specific signage or ask gallery staff for guidance.
The main gallery's location facing Tjörnin Lake offers pleasant views. Inside, focus on capturing the unique Icelandic art and the architecture of the buildings.
The main gallery, an early 20th-century ice house building, is picturesque. Early morning or late afternoon light can offer beautiful photographic conditions, especially with Tjörnin Lake in the foreground.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and near cultural institutions. It's highly unlikely to be permitted and could violate local regulations.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Given the indoor setting and potential restrictions on flash, a lens with good low-light performance can be beneficial.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting the Culture House if your children have a particular interest in art or if you plan a longer cultural outing. The sheer volume of art there might be overwhelming for very young children, but for families looking to introduce their kids to Icelandic culture and art in a manageable way, the National Gallery provides a good starting point. Remember to check for any specific family-friendly programming or exhibitions that might be running during your visit.
🏛️ Culture Enthusiasts
Art lovers will appreciate the quality and variety of works, with many reviewers highlighting the pleasant surprise at the exhibitions' presentation. Dedicate ample time to the Culture House for its larger collection, and don't miss the chance to see how artists have interpreted Iceland's unique landscapes and heritage. This is an opportunity to connect with the soul of Iceland through its visual arts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Icelandic Art History
The Culture House significantly expands this narrative, offering a more comprehensive view of the artistic output from these formative centuries. Here, visitors can encounter a broader range of styles and mediums, from traditional landscape paintings to more experimental modern pieces. The sheer volume of works available at the Culture House allows for a deeper appreciation of the nuances and developments within Icelandic art history, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in the country's cultural heritage.
When visiting, pay attention to how artists interpreted their surroundings and their cultural context. Many pieces will resonate with the stark beauty of Iceland's nature, while others might explore social or political themes relevant to the nation's journey. This dual-location approach ensures a well-rounded experience, providing both a focused glimpse and a broader panorama of Icelandic artistic achievements.
Navigating the Two Locations
The Culture House, a short walk away, serves as the larger repository for the gallery's extensive collection. If you're an art enthusiast looking for a more in-depth experience, this is where you'll want to spend more time. The combined ticket is a significant advantage, allowing you to experience the full breadth of the National Gallery's offerings without additional cost.
To make the most of your visit, consider starting at one location and then walking to the other. Many visitors find it convenient to explore the main gallery first, then head to the Culture House for a more extended viewing. This strategy allows for a logical flow and ensures you don't miss out on either part of the collection. Remember to check the opening hours for both sites to plan your itinerary effectively.
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