See & do · Landmarks & architecture
Hallgrímskirkja
Opening hours
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Images provided by Google Places
Inspired by Icelandic traditions, this modern cathedral, consecrated in 1986, has a 73m-high tower.via Google
The city's most iconic landmark, designed by Guðjón Samúelsson to mimic the shape of basalt lava columns.
- Good to know
- The church interior is free to enter, but a small fee is required to take the elevator up the tower for panoramic views.
Reviews from Google
For sure this. Cathedral stands out for unique construction and design that one can only appreciate when having a closer look. Solid reinforced concrete walls, simple and effective long columns, and very neat contemporary approach are real attributes.
It's a beautiful church that looks like an airplane on the outside. It has a very minimalistic architecture and on my view gets it's inspirations from the Reynisfjara Beach's basalt columns. The insides of the church are also very minimalistic. It looks really good both during the day and night. While we were there there was a parade going on on the rainbow road. The overall view was breathtaking. I would definitely recommend visiting. We did not visit the towers and did not but the tickets.
Iconic location in Reykjavik. Quite simple in aesthetic but stunning in scale and setting. Please go inside at get the views from the tower. Amazing views and well worth the visit. Use this place as an anchor site to explore “old” town. Highly recommend.
Quick Summary: An iconic architectural landmark inspired by Iceland's basalt columns. Go for the best 360° views in Reykjavik and the impressive 5,000-pipe organ. Be aware that the interior is very minimalist and plain compared to European cathedrals—come for the design and the view, not for ornate decor. The Highlights: Architecture & History Basalt Inspiration: Designed by Guðjón Samúelsson in 1937, the exterior mimics the natural columnar basalt found at sites like Svartifoss. It took 41 years to complete (1945–1986). The Great Organ: A massive mechanical instrument standing 15 meters tall with 5,275 pipes. It is often being played during the day, which adds a powerful atmosphere to the space. Leif Erikson Statue: The monument in the courtyard was a gift from the United States in 1930, predating the church itself, honoring the first European to reach North America. The Honest Perspective: What to Expect Minimalist Vibe: The interior is Lutheran, meaning it is white, clean, and largely unadorned. If you are looking for gold altars or intricate paintings, you won't find them here. The Tower Experience: There is an entry fee for the elevator. It is the highest point in the city, offering a perfect view of the famous multicolored Reykjavik rooftops and the ocean. Crowds: Because it’s the #1 tourist stop, the plaza and tower can feel "touristy." If you just want the architecture, a 10-minute walk around the outside is free and just as rewarding.
Visiting Hallgrímskirkja was an absolutely unforgettable experience, a true architectural masterpiece. The design of the church is simply extraordinary. Inspired by Iceland’s natural basalt lava formations, the structure rises dramatically into the sky, creating a bold and unique silhouette that dominates the entire city. It feels modern, powerful, and completely different from traditional churches. The highlight was going up to the top of the tower. From there, you get breathtaking panoramic views of Reykjavík colorful houses, the ocean, and surrounding mountains all in one frame. It’s easily one of the best viewpoints in the city and absolutely worth it. Overall, an iconic landmark impressive, unique, and visually stunning. A must-visit in Iceland for both architecture lovers and anyone looking for unforgettable views.