Arbaer was an established farm well into the 20th century, and the museum opened there in 1957. Arbaer is now an open air museum with more than 20 buildings which form a town square, a village and a farm. Most of the buildings have been relocated from central Reykjavik.
Arbaer Museum tries to give a sense of the architecture and way of life in Reykjavik and during summer visitors can see domestic animals and lifestyles of the past. There are many exhibitions and events held at the Museum which highlight specific periods in Reykjavik's history. These include craft days, vintage car displays, Christmas exhibitions and much more. There is something for everyone at Arbaer Museum.
Click here to see a map of the museum area.
Read more about the history of the Arbaer Museum
How to get there?
The Arbaer Museum is an open-air museum, situated by the street Kistuhylur in Artunsholt, Reykjavik. From City Centre take Bus nr. 19 from Hlemmur. The bus stops at Strengur which is just a few moments walk from the Museum. (See map). Further buses that stop close to the museum are nr. 12 and nr. 22. For more information about public transport see: bus.is,
Exhibition
During the summer the museum holds various exhibitions, showing the life and work of past generations. Several houses dating from the 19th century have been furnished and various workshops can be seen, such as hay-making, working with wool and traditional handicrafts. There is also a special programme every Sunday afternoon, when the museum is open during summer.
See exhibititions
Cafe
During opening hours in the summer refreshments are available in Dillon's House which was built in 1835.Museum Shops
The museum runs two different shops where guests can buy sweets and souvenirs. The shops are open during the opening hours of the museum in the summer. Guided tours
During the summer we offer guided tours around the museum every day at 11am and 2 pm. From September to May the Museum runs guided tours at 1 pm Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The museum is also open by arrangement. For more information please call (+ 00 354) 411 6300 or send us email at: minjasafn@reykjavik.is.Admission
Adults (18+):ISK 600. Children: Free. Senior Citizens (67+) : Free. Disabled: Free. Free entrance on Fridays. Groups(+10):ISK 30.