Selfosskirkja - Image 1
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Selfosskirkja

4.3
·47 reviews·Selfoss, Iceland

A beautiful, classically Nordic church in southern Iceland, known for its serene atmosphere and a uniquely illuminated graveyard during Christmas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daylight hours

Best for appreciating architecture

CrowdLow
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Selfosskirkja - Image 1

Selfosskirkja

Best Time

Daylight hours

Best for appreciating architecture

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A beautiful, classically Nordic church in southern Iceland, known for its serene atmosphere and a uniquely illuminated graveyard during Christmas.

4.3
(47 reviews)

"The graveyard, illuminated by colorful lights during Christmas, creates a uniquely beautiful memorial."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 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.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Selfosskirkja Architecture

Selfosskirkja Architecture

Selfoss

A striking, classically Nordic church with a capacity for around 200 people, offering a peaceful spiritual space.

Illuminated Graveyard

Illuminated Graveyard

Behind Selfosskirkja

During Christmas, the graveyard is uniquely beautiful with graves lit by colorful, cross-shaped lights.

Riverbend Views

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

Selfosskirkja is a beautiful church, but consider visiting during daylight hours for the best views. While the graveyard is illuminated during Christmas, general visiting hours are key for appreciating the architecture and surrounding landscape. Check local listings for any special events or services.

Exploring Selfoss Beyond the Church

Selfoss is a charming town on Iceland's South Coast, perfect for a stopover on the Ring Road or Golden Circle. Beyond Selfosskirkja, explore the 'Selfoss New Old Town' with its historic buildings, modern eateries, and shops. Don't miss trying the famous Icelandic hot dogs!

Best Times

When
Daylight hours
Why
Best for appreciating architecture
Crowd
Low
When
Christmas holidays
Why
Unique illuminated graveyard
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Is Selfoss in your travel plans for Iceland? 🚗✨🏘️ If you’re road-tripping along the South Coast, Golden Circle, or Ring Road, don’t just pass through—stop and explore! 👀 📍 Selfoss New Old Town is a must-visit! This unique renewal project is recreating 50 historic Icelandic buildings, now home to modern restaurants, cafés, and shops. 🛍️ Stroll the colorful main street, browse local boutiques, and p...
@guidetoiceland
22.9K likes • 1.5M views

📸 Admire the Graveyard Lights

Visit during Christmas for a uniquely beautiful experience with illuminated graves. Reddit

🚗 Stop on the Ring Road

Selfoss is a convenient stop on the South Coast, Golden Circle, or Ring Road trips. TikTok

Þetta Reddast, I miss you everyday Iceland #iceland #rekjavik #gulfoss #selfoss #blacksandbeach #reynisfjara #dyrhólaeyjarviti #travel #traveltiktok #waterfalls
@changedisname
6.8K likes • 25.6K views
Selfosskirkja er sú kirkja sem við heimsækjum í dag. Hún var reist á árunum 1952 til 1956 og var vígð á pálmasunnudag það ár. Selfosskirkja tekur rétt um 200 manns í sæti en ef við vinnum með hinn góða málshátt :,, þröngt mega sáttir sitja" er hæglega hægt að koma hátt í 230 manns í sæti. Kirkjustæðið er einstaklega fallegt og þegar inn er komið er sjónarspilið ekki síðra. Segja má að innvols kirk...
kirkjan.is
0 likes • 2.5K views

🌭 Try the Famous Hot Dogs

Don't miss the highly-rated Icelandic hot dogs in Selfoss! TikTok

🐴 Icelandic Horse Riding

Consider a visit to Sólvangur Icelandic Horse Center for rides. TikTok

#fermingar #fermingmyndir #hrafntinnavilla #studiostofanmin #selfoss #selfosskirkja #canon5dmarkiv @athenacooper400 @maja_marons
inga.heida.h
9 likes • 370 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Admire the Graveyard Lights

Visit during Christmas for a uniquely beautiful experience with illuminated graves. Reddit

🚗 Stop on the Ring Road

Selfoss is a convenient stop on the South Coast, Golden Circle, or Ring Road trips. TikTok

🌭 Try the Famous Hot Dogs

Don't miss the highly-rated Icelandic hot dogs in Selfoss! TikTok

🐴 Icelandic Horse Riding

Consider a visit to Sólvangur Icelandic Horse Center for rides. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.3
(47 reviews)

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

Beautiful architecture
Peaceful atmosphere
Unique Christmas graveyard

What People Dislike

Limited opening hours sometimes

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. TikTok

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. TikTok+1

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. TikTok+1

There is typically ample parking available near Selfosskirkja, especially in the town center. You should have no trouble finding a spot when visiting. TikTok

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Selfosskirkja is a functioning church and generally open to visitors. There is no admission fee to enter and admire the architecture. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

🎫 🧭 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. Instagram

The graveyard is a place of remembrance, particularly noted for its unique illumination during the Christmas holidays, creating a beautiful memorial. Reddit

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. TikTok

Visit during daylight to appreciate the architecture and surrounding river views. If visiting during Christmas, the illuminated graveyard is a must-see. Reddit

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. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. TikTokReddit+1

Yes, Selfoss has options for vegans, including at some hot dog stands that offer vegan sausages. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

Hotel Selfoss has a restaurant, which is noted as being a more expensive option in town, but there are also cheaper alternatives available. Reddit

📸 📸 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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted inside for personal use, but always be mindful of services and other visitors. Avoid flash photography. Instagram

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. TikTok+1

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Selfoss offers a family-friendly stop on your Icelandic journey. The town's 'Selfoss New Old Town' provides a visually engaging area for kids to explore with its colorful buildings. TikTok Trying the famous Icelandic hot dogs is a universally loved treat for all ages. TikTok For a unique experience, consider a visit to the Sólvangur Icelandic Horse Center for a chance to see or even ride these special animals. TikTok The church itself, while a place of worship, can also be a quiet moment of reflection for families, and the surrounding river views offer a pleasant backdrop.

🚗 Road Trippers & Ring Road Explorers

Selfoss is an ideal stop for anyone traveling Iceland's South Coast or the Ring Road. It's conveniently located and offers a break from driving with amenities like restaurants, cafes, and shops. TikTok+1 Use Selfoss as a base to explore nearby attractions or simply to refuel and rest. The town's unique 'New Old Town' provides a charming detour, and its famous hot dogs are a must-try road trip snack. TikTok

⛪️ Those Seeking Spiritual or Quiet Reflection

Selfosskirkja offers a peaceful sanctuary for those seeking quiet reflection. The church's serene interior and its location near the river provide a tranquil atmosphere. Instagram Visitors have noted the kindness of the pastor and the welcoming nature of the services, even for those who don't speak Icelandic. Reddit The graveyard, especially during the Christmas season with its unique illuminations, offers a deeply moving experience of remembrance. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of Selfoss Town

Selfoss is more than just its church; it's a vibrant hub in southern Iceland. The town has undergone a fascinating renewal project, recreating historic Icelandic buildings to house modern businesses. This 'Selfoss New Old Town' offers a unique blend of the past and present, with colorful facades housing trendy restaurants, cozy cafes, and boutique shops. TikTok+1 It's a perfect place to stroll, grab a bite, and soak in the local atmosphere. Many travelers find the town itself to be a delightful surprise, offering a charming and less crowded experience compared to some of Iceland's more famous tourist spots. TikTok

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. TikTok The town also serves as a gateway to various activities, including horseback riding with the unique Icelandic horses. TikTok

Selfosskirkja: A Place of Peace and Remembrance

Selfosskirkja, built between 1952 and 1956, stands as a testament to classic Nordic church architecture. Its design is simple yet elegant, with a capacity to seat around 200 people, offering a serene space for worship and reflection. Instagram The church's location near the riverbend provides beautiful views of the wide river and the historic iron bridge, adding to its picturesque setting. Reddit

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. Reddit This tradition offers a different perspective on the church and its surroundings, blending solemnity with a touch of festive magic.

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