Viðey Ferry - from the Old Harbour | Reykjavik Attractions

Viðey Ferry – from the Old Harbour

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.

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.