Árbær Open Air Museum - Old houses in Wadköping
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Árbær Open Air Museum

4.6
·1k reviews·Reykjavík, Iceland

Step back in time at Arbaer Open Air Museum, exploring historic Icelandic homes, farms, and shops.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdMedium
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Árbær Open Air Museum - Old houses in Wadköping

Árbær Open Air Museum

Best Time

Summer mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time at Arbaer Open Air Museum, exploring historic Icelandic homes, farms, and shops.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"A wonderful place to observe the daily lives of locals and experience unique historic scents."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚌 Bus Travel Tips

Bus maps can be confusing; plan your route beforehand. It's a 45-min ride from Reykjavik.

⏳ Allow Ample Time

You'll want at least 1.5-3 hours to explore everything. Don't rush the experience!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Icelandic Buildings

Historic Icelandic Buildings

Throughout the museum grounds

Wander through relocated homes, a farm, and other structures showcasing Iceland's past.

The Old General Store

The Old General Store

Central area of the museum

Discover a charming 'general store' selling Icelandic treats, toys, and games.

Period Costumed Staff

Period Costumed Staff

Various exhibits

Engage with staff in character, offering insights into daily life in different eras.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating to Arbaer

Getting to Arbaer Open Air Museum by public transport from Reykjavik can be a bit tricky. Bus maps can be confusing, so plan your route in advance. It's a worthwhile journey to experience Iceland's history.

Time for Exploration

Allocate at least 1.5 to 3 hours to fully explore Arbaer. Some buildings might be under repair, but there's plenty to see, from old farmhouses to a general store.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Experience of Árbær Open Air Museum in Iceland

🚌 Bus Travel Tips

Bus maps can be confusing; plan your route beforehand. It's a 45-min ride from Reykjavik. Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

You'll want at least 1.5-3 hours to explore everything. Don't rush the experience! Reddit

reddit.com

how to get to arbaer open air museum by city bus???

reddit.com

Suggestions for daytime Reykjavik

🗣️ English Signage

Most exhibits have English signage, making it accessible for international visitors. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the open-air grounds. Reddit

reddit.com

Lesser known activities in/near Reykjavik?

Tips

from all over the internet

🚌 Bus Travel Tips

Bus maps can be confusing; plan your route beforehand. It's a 45-min ride from Reykjavik. Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

You'll want at least 1.5-3 hours to explore everything. Don't rush the experience! Reddit

🗣️ English Signage

Most exhibits have English signage, making it accessible for international visitors. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the open-air grounds. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Arbaer Open Air Museum is highly praised for its authentic portrayal of Icelandic history and culture, with visitors appreciating the well-preserved buildings and engaging staff. Some minor drawbacks include occasional building repairs and the potential for confusing bus routes.

"This former farm has a few original building, but mostly it is historic structures from around the Country that have gather together and restored to different time periods. It was very interesting and we particularly enjoy the working 'general store' with a lovely variety of Icelandic treats, toys, game, etc. for sale. My only regret is that we didn't have a little more time."

Rebecca Crist

"I’m a big fan of Open Air Museums and most Nordic countries have one. I took public transportation 45 minutes to get to the museum and it was totally worth it! I learned so much about Iceland and the people dressed in character are absolutely wonderful! There’s something for everyone here and I saw lots of families."

Dawn Strauss

"Very nice overall! 90% of everything is in English however, there was one exhibit all in Icelandic so I had to skip that. Otherwise, good signage and interesting. A handful of houses were under repair so I couldn’t explore those but the buildings I did go in were really interesting. I spent about 1.5 hours there and it was lovely to walk around. I got there via bus from Reykjavik and it was easy enough to navigate getting there on my own."

Dasha Kopulsky

What People Like

Authentic historical buildings
Engaging costumed staff
Charming general store

What People Dislike

Occasional repairs
Confusing bus maps

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Navigating Reykjavik's bus system can be challenging. Travelers recommend planning your route in advance using bus maps. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes from the city center. Reddit

Yes, it is possible to reach the museum via public bus from Reykjavik. While bus maps can be confusing, many visitors have successfully navigated their way there. Reddit

The primary public transport option is the city bus from Reykjavik. If you have a car, it offers more flexibility, but the bus is a viable and common choice for visitors. Reddit

Taxis are available in Reykjavik and can take you directly to the Arbaer Open Air Museum. This is a more convenient but potentially more expensive option than the bus. Reddit

By bus, the journey to Arbaer Open Air Museum from downtown Reykjavik typically takes about 45 minutes. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official museum website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours before your visit. Reddit

Admission fees apply for Arbaer Open Air Museum. While specific prices can change, it's generally considered a reasonably priced attraction for the experience offered. Check their website for current ticket prices. Reddit

Booking tickets in advance is usually not required for Arbaer Open Air Museum, especially during off-peak times. However, for peak season or special events, it might be advisable to check their policy. Reddit

Discounts may be available for certain groups such as seniors, students, or children. It's recommended to inquire directly with the museum or check their website for any applicable discount programs. Reddit

Arbaer Open Air Museum has seasonal opening hours, and some parts may be closed or have limited access during winter months. Always verify their winter operating schedule before planning a visit. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Arbaer features relocated historic buildings from Iceland, including farmhouses, a church, and a general store. You can explore different time periods and learn about Icelandic heritage. Reddit

Most visitors find that 1.5 to 3 hours is sufficient to explore the museum thoroughly. Some have spent up to three hours captivated by the exhibits. Reddit

Yes, Arbaer is generally considered family-friendly. Children can enjoy exploring the old buildings and learning about historical life in Iceland. Reddit

Guided tours are often available, offering deeper insights into the history and culture. Self-guided exploration is also a popular option, with good signage. Reddit

The museum showcases buildings and exhibits representing various historical periods of Icelandic life, from old farm communities to early urban settlements. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum features a charming 'general store' that sells a variety of Icelandic treats, snacks, and souvenirs, offering a taste of local flavors. Reddit

While specific picnic areas might not be designated, visitors can typically enjoy their own food on the grounds, especially during warmer months. It's always good to be mindful of keeping the area clean. Reddit

The museum itself has a general store with treats. For more substantial meals, you would likely need to travel back towards Reykjavik or find local eateries in the surrounding areas. Reddit

The general store offers a delightful selection of Icelandic treats, including traditional sweets, candies, and other local delicacies, perfect for a snack. Reddit

Prices at the general store are generally in line with typical tourist attraction pricing. It offers a convenient way to sample local treats during your visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Every historic building and the charming general store offer great photo opportunities. The diverse architecture and rural setting provide a picturesque backdrop. TikTok

Photography is generally allowed inside the buildings, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific 'no photography' signs within certain exhibits. TikTok

Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the exteriors of the historic buildings. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide lovely, soft light. TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites and museums to protect the structures and ensure visitor safety. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise. TikTok

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide shots of the buildings and details. A prime lens can be useful for low-light interiors. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Arbaer Open Air Museum is a fantastic destination for families. Children can enjoy exploring the various historic houses and imagining life in past centuries. The open-air setting allows them to run around and discover new things in a safe environment. Reddit

Look out for the general store, which often has interesting items that can capture a child's imagination. The staff in period costumes can also be a highlight, making history more engaging and interactive for younger visitors. It's a great way to introduce kids to Icelandic culture and history in a fun, hands-on way. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Arbaer Open Air Museum offers excellent value. The admission fee is reasonable, and the experience provides a deep cultural immersion. Reddit

Opting for public transport via city bus from Reykjavik is the most economical way to reach the museum, saving on car rental or taxi costs. Packing your own snacks or a picnic lunch can also help keep costs down, though sampling treats from the general store is a worthwhile indulgence. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Icelandic History

Arbaer Open Air Museum is a fascinating living history museum that preserves and showcases the architectural heritage of Reykjavik and its surrounding areas. Originally a farm, the site now hosts a collection of over 20 relocated buildings, offering a tangible glimpse into the lives of Icelanders from the 18th century to the mid-20th century. Each structure has been meticulously restored to reflect its original period, providing an immersive experience of Iceland's past. Visitors can explore everything from traditional turf houses and farmsteads to townhouses and workshops, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the country's cultural evolution. Reddit

The museum's collection is thoughtfully arranged to represent different historical periods and types of dwellings. You can wander through a recreated village, step inside an old church, visit a shoemaker's workshop, and even experience the atmosphere of a historic general store. The staff, often dressed in period costumes, add an extra layer of authenticity, sharing stories and demonstrating traditional crafts. This interactive element makes the history come alive, allowing visitors to connect with the past on a personal level. Reddit

Beyond the buildings themselves, Arbaer provides context for the social and economic conditions that shaped Icelandic society. It highlights the resourcefulness and resilience of the Icelandic people in adapting to their environment. Whether you're interested in architecture, social history, or simply want to experience a unique aspect of Icelandic culture, Arbaer Open Air Museum offers a rich and educational outing. Reddit

Getting to Arbaer: A Traveler's Guide

Reaching Arbaer Open Air Museum from Reykjavik by public transport requires a bit of planning, as bus maps can be somewhat confusing for newcomers. The most common method is to take a city bus. While specific bus numbers and routes can change, travelers generally advise checking local bus schedules and route planners before your trip. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes from the city center. Reddit

Many visitors have successfully navigated the bus system, finding it a feasible and economical way to reach the museum. It's recommended to have your destination clearly in mind and perhaps use a navigation app that integrates public transport. Once you arrive at the museum, you'll find it's a rewarding experience that offers a deep dive into Icelandic heritage. Reddit

For those who prefer more direct travel or have mobility concerns, taxis are also an option, though they will be more expensive than the bus. If you are renting a car, Arbaer is easily accessible by road, and there is usually ample parking available. Regardless of your chosen mode of transport, the effort to reach Arbaer is widely considered worthwhile for the unique historical insights it provides. Reddit

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