Imagine Peace Tower travel guide

The Imagine Peace Tower, a striking and symbolic monument, was unveiled on October 9, 2007, on Viðey Island near Reykjavík. Conceived by artist Yoko Ono, the tower serves as a tribute to her late husband, John Lennon, and their shared vision of world peace. The unveiling date, which coincides with Lennon's birthday, adds a poignant layer to the monument's significance.

The tower is essentially a beam of light that emanates from a white stone monument, inscribed with the words "Imagine Peace" in 24 languages. The powerful light beam shoots up into the night sky, visible from various points around Reykjavík, and is lit annually from October 9 to December 8, symbolizing the period between Lennon's birth and death.

This art installation is more than just a visual wonder; it is a beacon of hope and a call for global peace. The project was a collaborative effort, supported by the city of Reykjavík, the Icelandic nation, and fans of Lennon and Ono worldwide. Over the years, the Imagine Peace Tower has become an iconic landmark, drawing visitors who wish to pay homage to John Lennon and share in the collective dream of a peaceful world.

Imagine Peace Tower stands out due to its striking visual design and the profound message it embodies. The tower is a beacon of light, created by multiple high-powered searchlights that form a column of light extending up to 4000 meters into the sky. This ethereal beam is visible from great distances, creating a mesmerizing and otherworldly spectacle against the Icelandic night sky.

The tower's location on Viðey Island, just off the coast of Reykjavík, adds to its allure, making it accessible yet secluded enough to provide a tranquil viewing experience. The base of the tower is inscribed with the phrase 'Imagine Peace' in 24 languages, emphasizing its global call for harmony and unity. The lights are powered by sustainable energy sources, reflecting a commitment to environmental consciousness, which aligns with the tower’s message of peace and harmony with nature.

Moreover, the tower is lit during specific periods of the year, including from October 9 (John Lennon's birthday) to December 8 (the anniversary of his death), as well as other key dates such as New Year’s Eve and the spring equinox, creating a cyclical rhythm that resonates with the passage of time and universal cycles.

The Imagine Peace Tower, a beacon of light dedicated to peace, is illuminated annually from October 9th to December 8th, as well as on select other dates such as New Year's Eve and Yoko Ono's birthday. This striking installation, powered by geothermal energy, symbolizes Iceland's commitment to sustainable energy. Despite appearing as a single beam, the tower is actually composed of 15 searchlights with prisms that reflect and amplify the light. Visitors can send their wishes for peace to be stored in the 'Wishing Well' at the base, which contains over a million wishes collected by Yoko Ono during her global art projects. On clear nights, the tower's light can be seen up to 4,000 meters into the sky, creating a mesmerizing spectacle visible from various parts of Reykjavík.

Located in the dynamic Viðey, the popular Imagine Peace Tower is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Reykjavík or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Iceland.

Reykjavík is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Reykjavík offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Reykjavík and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Hallgrimskirkja, Perlan, Sun Voyager, The Icelandic Phallological Museum (Hið Íslenzka Reðasafn), and FlyOver Iceland.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Reykjavík has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Reykjavík, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Iceland!

The best time to explore Imagine Peace Tower is during its annual illumination period, from October 9th to December 8th, when the tower shines brightly in honor of John Lennon’s birthday and the anniversary of his death. This period also coincides with the darker months in Iceland, allowing the tower's radiant beams to stand out more vividly against the night sky. For an even more magical experience, consider visiting during the Winter Solstice in December, when the long, dark nights create an enchanting atmosphere. The weather during these months can be chilly and occasionally windy, so dressing warmly is advised.

Crowd levels are generally moderate, offering an intimate experience without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist seasons. Additionally, special events such as lighting ceremonies and peaceful gatherings often coincide with the tower's illumination dates, providing unique opportunities to engage with the local community and fellow visitors. For those seeking to capture the perfect photograph, the twilight hours just after sunset offer a stunning backdrop. By planning your visit around these times, you can fully appreciate the serene beauty and profound message of the Imagine Peace Tower.

Imagine Peace Tower is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Reykjavík, Iceland. If you're flying in, Keflavík International Airport is approximately 25.7 miles (41.3 km) away from Reykjavík. From there, you can easily reach Imagine Peace Tower by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Reykjavík, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Imagine Peace Tower, which is located 2.8 miles (4.5 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Imagine Peace Tower, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Videy, 104, Iceland.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Imagine Peace Tower!

To truly enjoy your visit to Imagine Peace Tower, joining a tour that features this popular memorial in Reykjavík is highly recommended. As one of Iceland's most iconic attractions, Imagine Peace Tower draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Imagine Peace Tower starting at just 109.76 EUR below.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Imagine Peace Tower and Iceland's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Keflavík International Airport and the city of Reykjavík, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Iceland cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Reykjavík and beyond.

Conveniently explore Imagine Peace Tower and plenty more captivating attractions in Reykjavík by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Imagine Peace Tower and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Reykjavík has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Imagine Peace Tower below.

Aside from Imagine Peace Tower, Reykjavík is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Reykjavík, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Hallgrimskirkja, Perlan, and Sun Voyager.

Hallgrimskirkja is a bucket-list church and top attraction in Reykjavík, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 22,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Hallgrimskirkja is Hallgrímstorg 1, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.

Another appreciated attraction in Reykjavík is Perlan. Like Hallgrimskirkja, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars among 8,900 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this cafe is 105 Reykjavík, Iceland.

Sun Voyager is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Reykjavík. This establishment and top attraction in Reykjavík has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,500 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Sæbraut, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Reykjavík below.