Reykjavik: Imagine Peace Tower Evening Tour & Viðey Ferry

Summary

Evening ferry to Viðey Island for Lennon’s Imagine Peace Tower

You’ll cross from Reykjavik by ferry as dusk falls, walking with a local guide across Viðey Island’s quiet paths toward the Imagine Peace Tower. Along the way you’ll hear stories about Icelandic history and Lennon’s tribute, then stand beneath that beam of light with a warm drink in hand. It’s peaceful, thought-provoking — something that lingers after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really know what to expect when we boarded the little ferry at Reykjavik Old Harbour. There was this mix of excitement and that weird calm you get when the city lights start fading behind you — just the sound of water slapping against the boat and everyone bundled up in hats and scarves. Our guide, Sigrún, handed out flashlights (which felt oddly comforting) and told us how locals see Viðey as a sort of quiet escape. I could smell salt in the air, but also something earthy once we stepped onto the island — maybe seaweed or just wet grass, I don’t know.

The walk to the Imagine Peace Tower was slower than I thought it’d be. Not because it’s far (maybe 10 minutes?), but because everyone kept pausing. Sigrún pointed out old stone ruins and told us about monks living here ages ago — she laughed about how Icelanders always end up talking about ghosts on these islands. The wind picked up as we got closer to the tower, so my cheeks stung a bit. Suddenly there it was: this column of light shooting straight into the sky. It looked almost unreal against all that darkness — like someone had poked a hole through the clouds.

We huddled around while Yoko Ono’s voice played from a speaker. She talked about hope and peace, which sounded kind of abstract until you’re actually standing there in that cold, listening with strangers who’ve all come for their own reasons. Someone handed me hot chocolate (I think my fingers were too numb to say no), and honestly, it tasted better than any fancy coffee back home. On the way back down, Sigrún joked about how Icelandic weather keeps you humble — “If you don’t like it, just wait five minutes.” She wasn’t wrong; by then tiny flakes were starting to fall.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Evening tour to Imagine Peace Tower

• Boat ride from Reykjavik Old Harbour
• Guided walk to Imagine Peace Tower
• Listen to Yoko Ono's narrated video
• Enjoy views at the art installation
• Have a hot drink
• Return boat ride to Reykjavik

Top questions

How do I get to Viðey Island from Reykjavik?

The tour includes a round-trip ferry from Reykjavik Old Harbour directly to Viðey Island.

Is this Imagine Peace Tower tour suitable for kids?

Yes, infants and small children can join using a pram or stroller; families are welcome.

What should I wear for the evening tour?

Dress warmly with sturdy shoes, jacket, thermals, hat, scarf and gloves; weather changes quickly.

Is there food or drink included?

You’ll get hot chocolate, coffee or tea during your visit on Viðey Island.

How long does the whole tour last?

The experience is about 1.5 hours including ferry rides and guided walk.

Can people with limited mobility join?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with limited mobility due to uneven paths and a steep climb.

Are crampons provided if it’s icy?

Crampons are available if needed for safety during icy conditions on paths.

What’s included

Your evening includes round-trip ferry transport from Reykjavik Old Harbour to Viðey Island, a guided walk with stories along the way, use of flashlights (and crampons if things get slippery), plus hot chocolate or tea before heading back across the bay.