Selfosskirkja
A beautiful, classically Nordic church in southern Iceland, known for its serene atmosphere and a uniquely illuminated graveyard during Christmas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best for appreciating architecture
Selfosskirkja
Best Time
Best for appreciating architecture
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautiful, classically Nordic church in southern Iceland, known for its serene atmosphere and a uniquely illuminated graveyard during Christmas.
"The graveyard, illuminated by colorful lights during Christmas, creates a uniquely beautiful memorial."
📸 Admire the Graveyard Lights
Visit during Christmas for a uniquely beautiful experience with illuminated graves.
🚗 Stop on the Ring Road
Selfoss is a convenient stop on the South Coast, Golden Circle, or Ring Road trips.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Selfosskirkja Architecture
Selfoss
A striking, classically Nordic church with a capacity for around 200 people, offering a peaceful spiritual space.
Illuminated Graveyard
Behind Selfosskirkja
During Christmas, the graveyard is uniquely beautiful with graves lit by colorful, cross-shaped lights.
Riverbend Views
Near Selfosskirkja
Enjoy great views of the wide river and the iconic iron bridge from the church's vicinity.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Selfosskirkja
Exploring Selfoss Beyond the Church
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Admire the Graveyard Lights
Visit during Christmas for a uniquely beautiful experience with illuminated graves.
🚗 Stop on the Ring Road
Selfoss is a convenient stop on the South Coast, Golden Circle, or Ring Road trips.
🌭 Try the Famous Hot Dogs
Don't miss the highly-rated Icelandic hot dogs in Selfoss!
🐴 Icelandic Horse Riding
Consider a visit to Sólvangur Icelandic Horse Center for rides.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Admire the Graveyard Lights
Visit during Christmas for a uniquely beautiful experience with illuminated graves.
🚗 Stop on the Ring Road
Selfoss is a convenient stop on the South Coast, Golden Circle, or Ring Road trips.
🌭 Try the Famous Hot Dogs
Don't miss the highly-rated Icelandic hot dogs in Selfoss!
🐴 Icelandic Horse Riding
Consider a visit to Sólvangur Icelandic Horse Center for rides.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Selfosskirkja is appreciated for its beautiful, classically Nordic architecture and its serene atmosphere. Visitors particularly enjoy the unique and moving experience of the illuminated graveyard during the Christmas holidays. The church's location offers lovely views of the river and bridge, and the town of Selfoss itself provides convenient amenities and local charm.
"Beautiful church with a well-tended graveyard behind it. We visited over the Christmas holidays. At this time, the graves were illuminated by a variety of colourful lights, mostly in the shape of crosses. This was not at all garish and created a uniquely beautiful memorial."
Barry Hurford
"Lovely wonderful looking church."
Mr C
"Beautiful Church built just around the riverbend. It has great view of wide river and the iron bridge that crosses it. If you stop by Selfoss you must pay a visit. Expensive restaurante in Hotel Selfoss nearby but cheap places to eat too like Subway or a Hotdog hut."
Carlos y Blanca Rodríguez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Selfosskirkja is located in the town of Selfoss, which is easily accessible from Reykjavik. You can drive via Route 1 (the Ring Road) for approximately 45-60 minutes. Public buses also run regularly between Reykjavik and Selfoss, making it a convenient stop on your Icelandic adventure.
While not directly on the main Golden Circle attractions (Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss), Selfoss is a very common and convenient stop for those exploring the South Coast or extending their Golden Circle journey. Many travelers include it in their itineraries.
Absolutely! Selfoss is a key town along the South Coast section of the Ring Road, making Selfosskirkja an easy and worthwhile stop for anyone circumnavigating Iceland.
There is typically ample parking available near Selfosskirkja, especially in the town center. You should have no trouble finding a spot when visiting.
Yes, Selfoss is well-connected by public buses from Reykjavik and other towns in the south. You can easily reach the town and then walk to the church.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Selfosskirkja is a functioning church and generally open to visitors. There is no admission fee to enter and admire the architecture.
Opening hours can vary, especially outside of peak tourist season or due to services. It's best to check local listings or the church's official website if available. Many visitors find it open during daylight hours.
The graveyard behind Selfosskirkja is freely accessible. There is no charge to visit and pay respects, though special events like the Christmas illuminations are a unique seasonal offering.
Yes, services are held at Selfosskirkja, typically in Icelandic. Visitors are welcome to attend, and some have found the pastor accommodating, even offering sermon summaries.
Generally, photography is allowed inside churches for personal use, but it's always respectful to be discreet and avoid flash photography during services or if others are praying.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a classically Nordic design with seating for around 200 people. The interior is noted for its beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
The graveyard is a place of remembrance, particularly noted for its unique illumination during the Christmas holidays, creating a beautiful memorial.
Official guided tours specifically for the church are not widely advertised. However, the town of Selfoss offers a charming experience, and you can explore the church at your own pace.
Visit during daylight to appreciate the architecture and surrounding river views. If visiting during Christmas, the illuminated graveyard is a must-see.
Churches typically have some level of accessibility, but it's advisable to check directly if you have specific concerns. The main sanctuary is usually on the ground floor.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Selfoss town offers various dining options. You can find fast food like Subway, famous Icelandic hot dog stands, and restaurants in nearby hotels like Hotel Selfoss.
Yes, Selfoss has options for vegans, including at some hot dog stands that offer vegan sausages.
This is a unique renewal project recreating historic Icelandic buildings, now housing modern restaurants, cafes, and shops. It's a great place to explore for food and souvenirs.
Yes, the 'Selfoss New Old Town' area and the general town center have several cafes where you can relax and grab a coffee or snack.
Hotel Selfoss has a restaurant, which is noted as being a more expensive option in town, but there are also cheaper alternatives available.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the striking exterior of the church, the peaceful graveyard (especially with its Christmas lights), and the scenic views of the river and iron bridge nearby.
Daylight hours offer the best light for the church's architecture and the surrounding landscape. For unique shots, consider visiting during the Christmas season for the illuminated graveyard.
Photography is generally permitted inside for personal use, but always be mindful of services and other visitors. Avoid flash photography.
Yes, the 'Selfoss New Old Town' with its colorful historic buildings offers great photo opportunities. The Icelandic horses in the surrounding countryside are also a popular subject.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the church and its surroundings, while a telephoto lens might be good for distant landscape shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & Ring Road Explorers
⛪️ Those Seeking Spiritual or Quiet Reflection
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Selfoss Town
Beyond the historic buildings, Selfoss is known for its culinary scene, particularly its hot dogs. Don't miss the chance to try an Icelandic hot dog, often cited as some of the best in the country, with vegan options available. The town also serves as a gateway to various activities, including horseback riding with the unique Icelandic horses.
Selfosskirkja: A Place of Peace and Remembrance
A particularly poignant aspect of Selfosskirkja is its graveyard. While a place of quiet remembrance year-round, it transforms into a uniquely beautiful spectacle during the Christmas holidays. Graves are illuminated by a variety of colorful lights, often in the shape of crosses, creating a moving and unforgettable memorial. This tradition offers a different perspective on the church and its surroundings, blending solemnity with a touch of festive magic.



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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit