Things to Do in Viðey Island

Viðey Island sits just a short ferry ride from Reykjavík's Old Harbor, yet it feels like stepping into another world entirely. This small island, roughly 1.7 square kilometers, carries an outsized significance in Icelandic history and culture - it's home to the country's first stone house, dating back to 1755, and now serves as a peaceful retreat where art installations blend seamlessly with dramatic Nordic landscapes. The island's most famous resident might be Yoko Ono's Imagine Peace Tower, but honestly, the real draw is the sense of quiet contemplation you'll find here, especially when the Reykjavík skyline shimmers across the water and you realize you're standing on what was once the most powerful estate in medieval Iceland.

Your dining options on Viðey Island itself are limited to the seasonal restaurant at Viðey House, which operates from May through September and serves traditional Icelandic fare with modern touches - think lamb, fresh fish, and foraged ingredients. The restaurant is actually quite good, though pricey as you'd expect for its unique location. Most visitors pack a lunch or snacks since you're only a 7-minute ferry ride from Reykjavík's extensive dining scene. If you do eat at Viðey House, reservations are essential, especially for dinner. The cafe serves lighter fare during the day, including decent coffee and pastries that hit the spot after walking the island's trails.

Summer months from May through September offer the most comfortable weather and longest daylight hours, with the added bonus of active birdlife and the seasonal restaurant being open. That said, Viðey Island has a stark beauty in winter that many visitors actually prefer - fewer crowds, dramatic skies, and if you're lucky, northern lights dancing overhead. The Imagine Peace Tower only illuminates from October 9th through December 8th, so winter visits during this period offer something summer visitors miss entirely. Weather can be unpredictable year-round, so dress in layers regardless of season. Spring and fall tend to be windier, but they also offer some of the most dramatic lighting for photography.