Hallgrímskirkja
Iceland's iconic church, inspired by basalt columns, offering breathtaking city views from its towering spire.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for tower views
Hallgrímskirkja
Best Time
Best light for tower views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iceland's iconic church, inspired by basalt columns, offering breathtaking city views from its towering spire.
"Wowed by this stunning church, it was worth the special trip to see it!"
🔔 Bell Ringing Schedule
Church bells ring from 9 am to 9 pm, so no need to worry about nighttime disruptions.
🎟️ Tower Ticket Purchase
Tickets for the tower view are sold at the small gift shop.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Tower Views
Tower
Ascend the 73m tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Reykjavik and the surrounding bay.
Striking Art Deco Architecture
Exterior
Admire the unique basalt-column-inspired facade, a symbol of Iceland's natural beauty.
Serene Interior
Main Nave
Experience the minimalist, light-filled interior, a stark contrast to ornate European cathedrals.
Pipe Organ Performances
Main Nave
Listen to the powerful sounds of the church's magnificent pipe organ during recitals.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Hours
Tower Access & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Make sure to go to the top of Hallgrímskirkja for a spectacular view! Jan 2023
🔔 Bell Ringing Schedule
Church bells ring from 9 am to 9 pm, so no need to worry about nighttime disruptions.
🎟️ Tower Ticket Purchase
Tickets for the tower view are sold at the small gift shop.
Attending Hallgrímskirkja Service
Hallgrímskirkja Choir Practice
📸 Capture the Exterior
The church's unique design is best photographed from various angles around the plaza.
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
Situated on a hill, it's easily accessible on foot from central Reykjavik.
Do the bells of Hallgrímskirkja ring during the night?
Tips
from all over the internet
🔔 Bell Ringing Schedule
Church bells ring from 9 am to 9 pm, so no need to worry about nighttime disruptions.
🎟️ Tower Ticket Purchase
Tickets for the tower view are sold at the small gift shop.
📸 Capture the Exterior
The church's unique design is best photographed from various angles around the plaza.
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
Situated on a hill, it's easily accessible on foot from central Reykjavik.
✨ Check Hours Online
Verify opening hours online before visiting, as they can change for events.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently wowed by Hallgrímskirkja's unique architecture and the stunning panoramic views from its tower. While the interior is noted for its minimalist style, many appreciate the serene atmosphere and the impressive pipe organ. The church's iconic status makes it a must-visit in Reykjavik.
"I got to see 👀 this stunning church ⛪️ up close 😍 for the first time Wednesday evening. It was the grand finale to a walking 🚶♂️ tour of Reykjavik with a viking. The church ⛪️ sits on a hill which helps it stick out. I believe it's the most well known church ⛪️ in all of Reykjavik. Unfortunately, when my tour arrived, it was closed. They do post on the Internet when it'll be open and when it will be closed example: a wedding. I would strongly recommend that anyone who wants to visit this church ⛪️ check its hours before you visit it so, you won't find it closed.
The inside of the church ⛪️ is equally impressive and, thanks to very large clear windows 🪟, a lot of light lights up the inside (see picture 📸). I found only 1 stain glass window which was dedicated to the Virgin Mary (see picture 📸).
There isn't any charge to go inside the church BUT, there is one (I didn't note how much since I didn't do it) to go to the top of the tower. The church ⛪️ also has a small gift shop with postcards of the church ⛪️ and other items for sale.
Overall, I was really wowed by this stunning 😍 church ⛪️. I made a special trip to see 👀 it and felt it was worth it. I would recommend it to anyone visiting Reykjavik."
Ronald Wilkes
"We were impressed by this church. The pipe organ playing music was amazing to hear while we were checking out the church’s interior and a smaller version of a pipe organ player. Although the gift shop is small, you can purchase tickets to check out the bell tower at the top of the building, which is nice to offer. Highly recommend checking out this church!"
Nikolai Mannsfeld
"It is a beautiful church whose bell rings every 15 minutes. Inside, it is very poor compared to churches in Europe, which are full of gold and splendor. Here the walls are gray without any decoration. Everything looks very modest."
Franck Riberry
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hallgrímskirkja is conveniently located on a hill in central Reykjavik, making it easily accessible by foot from most downtown hotels. If you prefer not to walk, local buses also serve the area.
Yes, there is parking available near the church, though it can be busy during peak tourist seasons. Street parking is also an option in the surrounding areas.
Absolutely. Taxis are readily available in Reykjavik and can drop you off directly at the church. It's a straightforward ride from most parts of the city.
Many walking tours and bus tours of Reykjavik include a stop at Hallgrímskirkja due to its iconic status and central location.
Approaching from the main plaza in front of the church offers the most dramatic view of its facade and tower. Consider walking around the sides for different perspectives.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main church interior is free of charge. However, there is a fee to ascend the tower for panoramic city views.
The exact price for tower access can vary, but it's typically a modest fee. Tickets are usually purchased at the church's gift shop.
Opening hours can vary, especially for the tower. It's highly recommended to check the official Hallgrímskirkja website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Currently, tower tickets are typically purchased in person at the gift shop. It's best to confirm this on their official website if online booking is a priority.
Information on discounts for tower tickets is not widely publicized. It's advisable to inquire at the gift shop or check their official website for any available concessions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a minimalist design with a large pipe organ and a single stained-glass window dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The architecture is simple yet striking.
The tower offers stunning 360-degree views of Reykjavik, the surrounding mountains, and the bay. It's a fantastic spot for photography.
Yes, there is a small gift shop located within the church where you can purchase postcards, souvenirs, and tickets for the tower.
The church bells ring from 9 am to 9 pm, so they should not disturb your sleep if you are staying in a nearby hotel.
The main floor of the church is generally accessible. However, access to the tower may be limited due to stairs. It's best to inquire directly about specific accessibility needs.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful light for exterior shots. Daytime is great for capturing the tower's details and city views.
Generally, photography is allowed inside the church, but it's always respectful to be mindful of ongoing services or events. Avoid flash photography during services.
From the front plaza for the iconic facade, from the sides to capture its height, and from the tower itself for panoramic cityscapes.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around significant landmarks. Check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the entire facade, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details on the tower or distant city shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the church is a place of worship, so encourage children to be respectful. The gift shop offers small souvenirs, and the surrounding plaza is a good spot for a brief break. The bell ringing from 9 am to 9 pm is audible but generally not disruptive.
📸 Photographers
The tower views are a must-capture, especially during golden hour for stunning cityscapes. Consider visiting on a clear day for the best visibility. Inside, the minimalist design and the large pipe organ offer opportunities for atmospheric shots, though be mindful of lighting conditions and avoid flash during services.
❤️ Couples
Consider attending an organ recital for a truly enchanting experience. The powerful music echoing through the serene interior can be incredibly moving. Afterwards, enjoy a stroll around the church grounds or a nearby cafe, reflecting on the unique beauty of this Icelandic landmark.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Inspiration and Design
The interior, in contrast to its imposing exterior, is remarkably minimalist. This deliberate choice emphasizes light and space, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. Unlike many European churches adorned with gold and elaborate frescoes, Hallgrímskirkja features stark grey walls and a single, prominent stained-glass window dedicated to the Virgin Mary. This simplicity allows the grandeur of the pipe organ and the architectural lines to take center stage, providing a unique spiritual experience for visitors.
Visitors often note the stark difference between the exterior and interior, with some finding the interior 'modest' compared to European standards, while others appreciate its clean, modern aesthetic. The pipe organ itself is a significant feature, with its impressive size and the beautiful music it produces during recitals, which many visitors find to be a highlight of their visit.
Experiencing the Tower Views
The views are particularly stunning during daylight hours, allowing for clear visibility and excellent photographic opportunities. Many visitors recommend timing your visit to coincide with golden hour – the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset – when the light casts a warm, magical glow over the city. This creates a truly unforgettable visual experience and provides photographers with exceptional conditions.
While the tower offers a unique perspective, it's worth noting that the experience is primarily about the view. There are no additional exhibits or attractions at the top, but the unobstructed vistas are considered by many to be the main draw. Remember to check the tower's opening hours, as they can differ from the church's main hours and may be weather-dependent.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit