Guide de Voyage : La Gallerie Nationale d'Islande

The National Gallery of Iceland is a renowned art museum located in the heart of Reykjavik, showcasing the best of Icelandic art and culture.

Photo above from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Akigka. No edits made.

The National Gallery of Iceland is one of the top cultural attractions in Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland. Visitors to the National Gallery of Iceland can explore the extensive collection of Icelandic art, spanning from the 19th century to contemporary works. 

While there are no specific tours or packages for the National Gallery of Iceland, visitors can explore the museum as part of a Reykjavik city tour, self-drive tour, or private tour. You can also rent a car, take one of those Reykjavik walking tours, and visit the other museums in Reykjavik.

The museum's location in the historic harbor district of Reykjavik provides a unique backdrop to the gallery's impressive collection. The National Gallery of Iceland is a cultural gem where visitors can view paintings, sculptures, and installations that reflect the country's rich history and contemporary art scene. 

Where the National Gallery of Iceland is Located

The National Gallery of Iceland is located in the city center of Reykjavik, on Frikirkjuvegur Street. The museum is in the same neighborhood as other cultural attractions, such as the National Museum of Iceland and the Reykjavik Art Museum. 

What Makes the National Gallery of Iceland a Must-Visit Destination

The National Gallery of Iceland is a key destination for anyone visiting Reykjavik. The museum is notable for many reasons, but perhaps most notably for its vast collection of Icelandic art. The collection is comprehensive, ranging from the earliest examples of Icelandic art to contemporary works by modern artists. 

The museum is located in the heart of Reykjavik, providing visitors with a stunning backdrop of the city's historic architecture. The buildings housing the museum have been restored and adapted for the exhibition space, blending historic and modern architecture seamlessly. 

The gallery's primary building was once the seat of the Icelandic Parliament, adding to its historical significance. The National Gallery of Iceland hosts various exhibitions, events, and educational programs throughout the year. 

The galleries cover a total area of 10,000 square meters and contain over 10,000 works of art. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, drawings, and prints by Icelandic artists such as Johannes Sveinsson Kjarval, Asgrimur Jonsson, and Nína Tryggvadottir, as well as international artists such as Pablo Picasso and Edvard Munch.

Additionally, the museum hosts several temporary exhibitions throughout the year, offering visitors the chance to view exciting new works from Icelandic and international artists.

How To Go to the National Gallery of Iceland

The National Gallery of Iceland is located in Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland. The closest airport is Keflavik International Airport, which is approximately 31 miles (50 kilometers) away from the city center. 

By Car:

It is a breeze to rent a car in Iceland. To get to the National Gallery of Iceland, you can use a GPS device or smartphone app to navigate the museum's location at Frikirkjuvegur 7 in Reykjavik. The museum is located in the downtown area of the city and can be accessed via several major roads, including Route 41, Route 49, and Route 1.

By Public Transportation:

To get to the National Gallery of Iceland by public transportation, visitors can take any of the buses that stop at Hlemmur, which is the closest bus stop to the museum. Hlemmur is a major bus station in central Reykjavik, and several bus routes pass through it.

Once visitors arrive at Hlemmur, they can walk to the National Gallery of Iceland, which is located about 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) away.

By Taxi:

Taxis are widely available in Reykjavik and can be hailed on the street or ordered through a taxi app.

By Walking or Biking:

If you're staying in the city center, the National Gallery of Iceland is easily accessible by walking or biking. The museum is located in a pedestrian-friendly area, with bike racks available for those who prefer to cycle.

Photo above from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by McKay Savage. No edits made.

Must-See Attractions Near the National Gallery of Iceland

• Hallgrimskirkja Church

One of the most iconic landmarks in Reykjavik, this stunning church features a unique design inspired by Iceland's volcanic landscape. Visitors can take the elevator to the top for panoramic views of the city.

• Harpa Concert Hall

A modern masterpiece of glass and steel, Harpa concert hall and conference center is home to Iceland's premier music venue and also hosts art exhibitions and conferences. Check out the striking architecture and enjoy a drink or meal at the on-site restaurant.

• The National Museum of Iceland

The National Museum of Iceland is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Iceland. Its exhibits range from Viking-age artifacts to modern-day artworks, providing a comprehensive overview of Iceland's rich heritage.

• Kjarvalsstadir Art Museum

Reykjavik Art Museum Kjarvalsstadir is a museum dedicated to the works of Icelandic artist Jóhannes S. Kjarval, as well as temporary exhibitions of modern and contemporary art. The museum is housed in a striking building designed by architect Hannes Kr. Davídsson, located just a short distance from the city center.

• Sun Voyager

Located on the waterfront near Harpa, this sculpture by Icelandic artist Jon Gunnar Arnason is a symbol of hope and freedom. Take a stroll along the waterfront and snap some photos with this iconic landmark.

• Settlement Exhibition

The Settlement Exhibition is a fascinating museum in downtown Reykjavik that explores the Viking age settlement of Iceland. Through interactive displays and archaeological artifacts, visitors can learn about the early settlers' daily lives and their challenges in this harsh environment.

• Tjornin

This picturesque lake is just a few minutes walk from the National Gallery and is a popular spot for feeding ducks and geese. Take a stroll around the lake and enjoy the beautiful views of surrounding buildings and greenery.

• Perlan

This futuristic building, located on a hill overlooking Reykjavik, houses a museum, planetarium, restaurant, and observation deck with 360-degree views of the city. Explore the interactive exhibitions and learn about Iceland's natural wonders.

• Laugardalslaug

Iceland is known for its geothermal pools, and Laugardalslaug is one of the largest and most popular in Reykjavik. Relax in the hot tubs, swim laps in the Olympic-sized pool, or try the waterslide. There's also a sauna and steam room for extra relaxation.

Reykjavik is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous theaters, music venues, and art galleries located throughout the city. Visitors may also want to explore the city's many restaurants, cafes, and bars, which offer a wide range of cuisine and atmosphere.

Where To Stay Near the National Gallery of Iceland

Reykjavik offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Some of the most popular areas to stay in Reykjavik are the city center, the harbor area, and the Laugardalur district.

In the city center, visitors will find many hotels and guesthouses within walking distance of the National Gallery of Iceland. Some popular options include the Radisson Blu 1919 Hotel, the Berjaya Reykjavik Marina Hotel, and the CenterHotel Arnarhvoll.

The harbor area is also a great option for visitors who want to be close to the National Gallery of Iceland. Some popular hotels in the area include the Canopy by Hilton and the Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel, Curio Collection By Hilton.

For visitors who want to stay in a quieter area of the city, the Laugardalur district is a good choice. This area is home to the Laugardalslaug swimming pool, the largest geothermal pool in Reykjavik, as well as the Laugardalsvöllur stadium. Some popular hotels in the area include the Berjaya Reykjavik Natura Hotel and the Grand Hotel Reykjavik.