Viðey Ferry - from the Old Harbour 1
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Viðey Ferry - from the Old Harbour

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Reykjavík, Iceland
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About this activity

A 20-minute ferry ride from Reykjavík's Old Harbour to Viðey Island, a car-free sanctuary just offshore combining Icelandic history, contemporary art, and pristine nature. This peaceful escape offers art installations, hiking trails, birdwatching, and cultural landmarks within minutes of the city centre.

Ferry departure point is Reykjavík's Old Harbour, a mere 5 min. walk from the city centre.

During the sum­mer, there are daily ferry depart­ures from Skarfabakki pier and the Old Harbour. In win­ter, the ferry runs only on Saturdays and Sundays from Skarfabakki to Viðey.

Available: 1st June - 31st August 
Departure: 11:50 and 14:50
Return ferry: 11:30, 14:30 and 17:30

Viðey island is a unique place that combines history, art and nature. It is only a few minutes away from the city by boat and is well known for its tranquillity and the spirit of bygone centuries. On Viðey you can enjoy all the unspoiled nature reigns which has a unique place in Icelandic history. Birdlife abounds on the island, while out­stand­ing works of modern art also make their mark. 

The island is home to the Imagine Peace Tower, designed by Yoko Ono as a tribute to her late husband John Lennon. The pillar of light symbolises their continuing campaign for world peace. Other noteworthy attention points are Viðey Church, Viðeyjarnaust Cabin, Viðeyjarstofa Café, the Old School House and the Water Reservoir. 

The island is about 32 m above sea level, 1.6 km² inn size and consists of Heimaey (Home island) and Vesturey (West island). Along the coastline you can see beautiful rock formations look out for the trap rock at Virkisöfði and Eiðisbjarg. There are 156 types of vascular plants, which is the equivalent of one third of Iceland's flora.

Þórsnes peninsula is protected during breeding season, from 1st May - 1st July. The most common bird to lay eggs on the island is the eider duck, but about 30 species travel from all over to raise their young there each year.

See map of Viðey island here.

Viðey is a national treasure that we need to take care of together. We ask all visitors to be careful around high cliffs, always walk along the paths and leave nests alone. Please respect the wildlife and nature on the island and make sure to recycle your waste.

Highlights

  • ✓Imagine Peace Tower by Yoko Ono—a beacon of light honouring John Lennon's legacy
  • ✓Viðey Church and historic structures spanning centuries of Icelandic settlement
  • ✓Diverse birdlife and one-third of Iceland's vascular plant species in a compact 1.6 km² island
  • ✓Dramatic coastal rock formations including trap rock at Virkisöfði and Eiðisbjarg
  • ✓Viðeyjarstofa Café for refreshments; fully car-free, traffic-free environment

Insider tips

  • ★Summer departures run at 11:50 and 14:50; return ferries at 11:30, 14:30, and 17:30—plan a 3–5 hour visit to explore without rushing
  • ★Winter service (Saturdays/Sundays only, departing from Skarfabakki pier) is dramatically quieter; bring binoculars for birdwatching during migration seasons
  • ★The café and historic cabin provide shelter; wear layers and waterproof jacket—island weather can shift quickly despite proximity to city

Good to know

  • •Ferry departs from Old Harbour, a 5-minute walk from Reykjavík city centre; summer runs 1 June–31 August daily
  • •Island elevation is only 32 metres; terrain is accessible but uneven; sturdy shoes recommended for coastal trails
  • •No cars or vehicles on the island; all exploration is by foot
  • •Þórsnes peninsula is protected during breeding season (dates partially specified); respect barriers to protect nesting birds

Who it's for

Art and culture enthusiasts seeking Yoko Ono installations and Icelandic heritageNature lovers and birdwatchers (156 vascular plant species, abundant seabirds)City visitors wanting a half-day escape without leaving Reykjavík metro areaPhotographers drawn to historic architecture, coastal landscapes, and peace-themed installations

Best time to visit

June–August for daily departures, longest daylight, and active birdlife during nesting season. Visit mid-morning (11:50 departure) or early afternoon (14:50) to maximise island time before return ferries fill up; winter weekends offer solitude but require planning around limited Saturday–Sunday schedule.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€18
per person