Sun Voyager, or "S贸lfar" in Icelandic, is one of Reykjavik鈥檚 most iconic landmarks. This striking sculpture, created by Icelandic artist J贸n Gunnar 脕rnason, stands as a tribute to the Viking heritage of Iceland. The sculpture, resembling a Viking ship, embodies the spirit of adventure and exploration, symbolizing the search for new horizons and the connection between the past and the future. Sun Voyager has become one of the most photographed landmarks in Reykjavik, attracting visitors from around the world who come to admire its beauty and the story it tells.
Located along the Reykjavik waterfront, Sun Voyager is easily accessible by foot from Reykjavik鈥檚 city center. It lies along the scenic coastline, just a short walk from popular spots like Harpa Concert Hall and the city鈥檚 harbor area. If you're in downtown Reykjavik, you can simply walk to the sculpture, which takes around 10-15 minutes.
For those using public transport, Reykjavik鈥檚 bus system is reliable, with several routes that stop near the sculpture. If you're coming from the Reykjavik airport (Keflavik International), you can take a Flybus or a taxi to the city and then continue on foot or by bus to the sculpture. Renting a bicycle is another great option, as Reykjavik has many dedicated bike paths that connect the city鈥檚 attractions. Sun Voyager is also near the Reykjavik Marina, making it easy to combine a visit with a trip to the harbor.
Reykjavik's weather can be unpredictable, with frequent shifts in temperature, wind, and rainfall. The best time to visit Sun Voyager is during the summer months (June to August), when the temperatures are milder, ranging from 10掳C to 15掳C (50掳F to 59掳F). During this period, Reykjavik experiences the "midnight sun," and the days are long, giving you plenty of daylight to enjoy the sculpture and the surrounding views of the sea and mountains.
In winter (December to February), the temperatures in Reykjavik drop closer to 0掳C (32掳F), and snowfall is possible. The wind can be particularly strong, making the cold feel even more intense. If visiting during winter, be prepared for colder conditions and occasional rain, as the weather in Reykjavik can change rapidly. It鈥檚 recommended to dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing during colder months to ensure a comfortable visit to Sun Voyager.
Sun Voyager is a public sculpture, meaning there are no set opening or closing times for the monument. It is accessible 24/7, and you can visit it at any time of day or night. Many visitors enjoy visiting early in the morning or around sunset to capture stunning photographs, as the light during these times creates a magical atmosphere around the sculpture.
As a public art installation, there is no fee for visiting Sun Voyager, making it an ideal place to stop by during your exploration of Reykjavik. However, if you want to enjoy the surrounding area, the Reykjavik waterfront offers plenty of walking and biking paths, making it a pleasant location to spend some time. The views of the ocean and nearby mountains are also breathtaking, so it鈥檚 worth staying for a while to take it all in.
Sun Voyager is famous for its distinctive design and its representation of Iceland's Viking heritage. The sculpture was created by J贸n Gunnar 脕rnason in 1990 and has since become one of the most beloved symbols of Reykjavik. Sun Voyager is often compared to a Viking ship, its skeletal structure evoking the image of a longship, a symbol of the seafaring Vikings who once explored vast regions of Europe and beyond.
Not just an artistic installation, the sculpture also has a deeper meaning. The curved lines and the upward-arching beams of the sculpture symbolize the hope and vision of reaching new shores and the unending quest for discovery. Its name, "Sun Voyager," refers to the idea of a journey toward the sun, making it a poetic representation of human exploration, ambition, and the endless search for knowledge. Visitors to Sun Voyager often feel a deep connection to Iceland's Viking past and the adventurous spirit that has shaped the country鈥檚 history.
Sun Voyager was created by Icelandic sculptor J贸n Gunnar 脕rnason in 1990 as part of Reykjavik鈥檚 commitment to celebrate its Viking heritage. The sculpture was intended as a tribute to the Vikings and their legacy as explorers, and it was placed on the Reykjavik waterfront near the city鈥檚 harbor. The decision to situate the sculpture by the sea is symbolic of the Vikings' deep connection to the ocean and their long voyages across it.
The architecture of Sun Voyager is minimalist yet powerful. The sculpture consists of steel, and its design reflects the beauty and strength of the Viking ships. The ship is composed of a series of beams, each one pointing toward the sky as if preparing to launch into the horizon. The sun, which the sculpture is named after, is represented by the curved lines and the open shape, giving the impression that the ship is voyaging toward the light. This combination of simplicity and symbolism has made the sculpture one of Reykjavik鈥檚 most photographed and beloved pieces of public art.
While Sun Voyager itself is a relatively simple sculpture, it offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. Here are some things you can do during your visit: