Viðey Island Ferry from Skarfabakki
A short crossing to Iceland's most storied island sanctuary
The Viðey Island Ferry from Skarfabakki is the easiest way to step off the Reykjavik waterfront and onto one of Iceland's most historically and artistically significant islands. In just five minutes by boat, visitors leave the capital behind and arrive at a place where centuries of Icelandic heritage, celebrated modern art, and undisturbed nature share the same small landmass.
Viðey sits less than a kilometre offshore, yet it feels worlds apart from city life. The island encompasses two parts, Heimaey and Vesturey, and rises to about 32 metres above sea level across a compact 1.6 square kilometres of volcanic terrain, coastal rock formations, and wildflower meadows.
Birdlife is a defining feature of the island throughout the year. Around 30 species use Viðey as a breeding ground each spring and summer, with the eider duck being the most prolific nesting bird. The island also hosts 156 types of vascular plants, representing roughly one third of all plant species found in Iceland.
Reykjavik City Museum manages the island and organises a programme of seasonal events, from guided walks and folklore sessions to chess tournaments and the illumination of the Imagine Peace Tower. Visitors are asked to stay on marked paths, respect nesting areas during the breeding season from May through July, and take their waste with them when they leave.
Highlights
A five-minute ferry crossing from Skarfabakki pier brings you to Viðey, with multiple daily departures in summer and weekend services in winter.
The Imagine Peace Tower, created by Yoko Ono in memory of John Lennon, stands on the island as a permanent beacon for world peace.
Viðey Church is one of Iceland's oldest stone buildings, constructed in 1755 and still standing as a testament to the island's long settlement history.
Around 30 bird species breed on the island each year, making it a rewarding destination for wildlife observation during spring and summer.
The island's vegetation includes 156 vascular plant species, equivalent to one third of Iceland's entire native flora, spread across its meadows and clifftops.
Viðeyjarstofa Café provides refreshments on the island, housed in one of Iceland's oldest surviving buildings dating back to the eighteenth century.
Reykjavik City Museum runs a seasonal events programme on Viðey, including guided folklore walks, sign-language tours, and the Summer Solstice Walk.
How the Experience Unfolds
Make your way to Skarfabakki, located five to ten minutes by car from central Reykjavik. Bus routes 16 and 12 both connect Hlemmur Square directly to the ferry terminal.
The ferry departs from Skarfabakki pier and completes the crossing to Viðey Island in approximately five minutes. In summer, daily departures run throughout the morning and afternoon.
On arrival, head toward Viðeyjarstofa, Viðey Church, the Old School House, and the Viðeyjarnaust Cabin. These structures form the historic heart of the island's settlement.
Walk to the Imagine Peace Tower on Vesturey and follow the coastal path to observe the distinctive trap rock formations at Virkisöfði and Eiðisbjarg.
Keep to the marked paths and watch for nesting eider ducks and other seabirds. The Þórsnes peninsula is a protected breeding area and must not be disturbed between May and July.
Board the return ferry from Viðey at your chosen departure time. In summer, return crossings operate throughout the afternoon and into the early evening.
What Is Included
Included
- Round-trip ferry crossing from Skarfabakki to Viðey Island
- Access to all outdoor areas and marked walking paths on the island
- Access to the Imagine Peace Tower site
- Entry to the island's historic buildings (exterior)
Not Included
- Food and beverages at Viðeyjarstofa Café
- Guided tour services (available separately during special events)
- Transport to Skarfabakki pier
- Personal travel insurance
Important Information
Plan Your Trip to Viðey Island
Secure your place on the Viðey Ferry from Skarfabakki and discover one of Reykjavik's most rewarding short escapes. Summer departures run daily, so there is plenty of flexibility to fit the crossing into your itinerary.
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