10 Things to Do in the National Museum of Iceland, Reykjavík



The National Museum of Iceland in Reykjavík is a must-visit for those who want to learn more about the history and culture of the country. Located in the heart of the city, the museum showcases a variety of artifacts and artwork from the country’s past, spanning from the Viking Age to the modern era. Here are 10 things to do when you visit the National Museum of Iceland.

1. Explore the Viking Collection: The museum’s Viking Collection is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world. It includes artifacts from the Viking Age, such as weapons, tools, jewelry, and clothing. It also features replicas of Viking ships, as well as a replica of a Viking longhouse.

2. Check Out the Medieval Collection: The museum’s Medieval Collection includes artifacts from the Middle Ages, such as manuscripts, coins, and weapons. It also features replicas of medieval buildings and artwork, such as tapestries and sculptures.

3. View the Modern Art Collection: The museum’s Modern Art Collection showcases artwork from the 19th and 20th centuries, including paintings, sculptures, and photography. It also features works by Icelandic artists, such as Einar Jónsson and Jóhannes Kjarval.

4. Learn About Icelandic History: The museum’s History Collection includes artifacts from the country’s past, such as documents, photographs, and archaeological finds. It also features interactive displays and videos about the history of Iceland.

5. View the Natural History Collection: The museum’s Natural History Collection includes specimens of birds, mammals, and fish, as well as fossils and minerals. It also features interactive displays about the natural environment of Iceland.

6. Visit the Library: The museum’s library contains a variety of books and other materials related to Icelandic history and culture. It also houses a collection of rare and out-of-print books.

7. Attend a Lecture: The museum hosts lectures and other events throughout the year. These events are open to the public and often feature guest speakers from around the world.

8. Take a Tour: The museum offers guided tours of its collections and exhibits. Tours are available in both English and Icelandic.

9. Shop at the Gift Shop: The museum’s gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs and other items related to Icelandic culture. It also sells books and other materials related to the museum’s collections.

10. Enjoy a Meal at the Café: The museum’s café offers a variety of light meals and snacks. It also serves a selection of Icelandic beers and wines.