Top Attractions
Design Dreams
Garðabær is an important hub for Icelandic design and craft, home to creative studios, artisan businesses, and one of the country’s most significant cultural institutions: the Museum of Design and Applied Art (Hönnunarsafn Íslands). This museum houses an extensive collection of Icelandic furniture, fashion, textiles and everyday objects, offering insight into how design has shaped daily life in Iceland. Exhibitions focus on both historical and contemporary work, with rotating shows that highlight innovation, sustainability, and craftsmanship.
Lava Landscapes
Garðabær offers accessible ways to explore Iceland’s dramatic lava formations, thanks to natural attractions like Gálgahraun and Búrfellsgjá. Gálgahraun on Álftanes is a protected lava field shaped by ancient volcanic activity, with winding trails that weave through mossy rocks, rugged lava formations and twisted birch trees. Despite its dramatic name (which means ‘Gallows Lava’ in English), the area is peaceful and inviting, especially for nature walks and photography. Further inland lies Búrfellsgjá, a lava channel carved out by an eruption over 7,000 years ago. A marked hiking path allows visitors to trace the route of ancient lava flows and enjoy wide views of the capital area.
Presidential Realm
Perched on the Álftanes peninsula, Bessastaðir is the official residence of the President of Iceland and one of the country’s most historically significant sites. Originally a medieval farm and church estate, Bessastaðir has hosted scholars, Danish governors, and Iceland’s independence leaders over the centuries. The current buildings were constructed in the 18th century and have been beautifully preserved. While the residence itself is not open for regular tours, visitors can explore the surrounding area, Álftanes, with its scenic views, walking paths, and rich birdlife.
Fresh perspectives
Garðabær offers a refreshing mix of recreation and natural beauty, whether you’re into walking trails that circumnavigate small lakes such as Urriðavatn and Vífilstaðavatn, or walks that take in 9 or 18 scenic holes on a golf course. For local swimming with a twist, Garðabær offers Iceland’s only wave pool at Álftaneslaug, a modern geothermal complex where you can enjoy a wave machine, hot tubs, water slides, a gym, and facilities for all ages. From the pool it’s not far to the area’s white sandy beaches, somewhat rare in Iceland, where you can enjoy a seaside stroll or dip your toes in the North Atlantic.
Meet the Locals
How to get to Seltjarnarnes
By Bus
Several bus routes serve Garðabær and Álftanes, with the main routes being 1, 22, 23, and 24.
By Electric Scooter
Electric scooters are available in Garðabær and Álftanes.
By Car
It is easy to find parking at the main locations.
