Viðey Island Ferry from the Old Harbour
A short crossing to one of Iceland's most historically rich and naturally serene islands
The Viðey Island ferry departs from Reykjavík's Old Harbour, just a five-minute walk from the city centre, and connects visitors to a place where Icelandic history, living art and untouched nature coexist on a single small island.
Viðey covers 1.6 square kilometres and rises about 32 metres above sea level, divided into two parts known as Heimaey and Vesturey. Its coastline reveals striking rock formations, including the trap rock at Virkisöfði and Eiðisbjarg, shaped over millennia by volcanic forces.
The island hosts 156 species of vascular plants, representing roughly one third of all flora found in Iceland. Each spring, around 30 bird species travel to Viðey to breed, with the eider duck being the most prevalent, while the Þórsnes peninsula remains protected from May through July during nesting season.
Visitors are asked to stay on marked paths, keep a safe distance from cliff edges and leave wildlife undisturbed. Waste recycling facilities are available on the island, and all guests share responsibility for preserving this national treasure.
Why Visit Viðey Island
Step onto an island with a unique place in Icelandic history, reachable in minutes from central Reykjavík.
The Imagine Peace Tower, conceived by Yoko Ono as a memorial to John Lennon, stands as one of Iceland's most recognised contemporary artworks.
Viðey Church, the Old School House and Viðeyjarstofa Café represent centuries of continuous habitation and cultural life on the island.
Around 30 bird species nest on Viðey annually, making it an outstanding location for birdwatching during the summer months.
One third of Iceland's entire vascular plant flora can be found here, offering a rare botanical landscape within reach of the capital.
The island's coastline features dramatic volcanic rock formations that tell the geological story of this part of the North Atlantic.
Seasonal guided events — including a Summer Solstice Walk, Icelandic sign language tours and folklore walks — offer a deeper experience of island life.
What to Expect on the Island
Board the ferry at Reykjavík's Old Harbour, a short walk from the city centre. The crossing takes approximately 20 minutes and offers views of the capital's skyline and surrounding bay.
On landing, collect a map of Viðey at the pier. The island is divided into Heimaey and Vesturey, and clearly marked walking paths connect all key points of interest.
Explore Viðey Church, the Old School House, Viðeyjarnaust Cabin and the Water Reservoir. The Viðeyjarstofa Café provides a place to rest and enjoy refreshments during your visit.
Visit the Imagine Peace Tower, Yoko Ono's permanent tribute to John Lennon. The installation represents an ongoing commitment to international peace and is one of Iceland's most photographed landmarks.
Follow the coastal paths to observe the island's rock formations, birdlife and plant species. Respect nesting areas, particularly on Þórsnes peninsula during the protected breeding period from May to July.
Board the return ferry from Viðey back to the Old Harbour. Multiple return sailings are available throughout the afternoon, giving flexibility to spend as much time on the island as desired.
Included and Excluded
What Is Included
- Round-trip ferry crossing between the Old Harbour and Viðey Island
- Access to all public walking paths and outdoor areas on the island
- Island map available at the pier
- Seasonal guided events (where scheduled, see itinerary for details)
What Is Not Included
- Food and beverages (available at Viðeyjarstofa Café on the island)
- Private guided tours
- Transport to the Old Harbour departure point
- Winter ferry service (limited to Saturdays and Sundays from Skarfabakki only)
Important Information
Plan Your Visit to Viðey Island
Secure your ferry tickets in advance to make the most of the summer schedule, including special guided events and seasonal walks offered throughout June and August.
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