Hallgrímskirkja is Iceland tallest and most iconic church, standing at 73 meters. Designed by state architect Guðjón Samúelsson in 1937, its distinctive expressionist architecture was inspired by basalt lava columns found in Icelandic nature. Construction took 41 years (1945-1986). The tower offers panoramic views of Reykjavík, surrounding mountains, and on clear days, Greenland. A statue of Leif Eriksson stands in front.
Church free. Tower 1400 ISK (~€10), kids 7-16: 200 ISK, students/seniors 1000 ISK. From 2026 tower 1500 ISK. Tickets at church shop
Clear days for best tower views - you can see Mount Esja, the ocean, and potentially Greenland. Avoid Sunday mornings when tower closes for services. Summer offers longer hours.
Located at the top of Skólavörðustígur shopping street in central Reykjavik. 10-minute walk from main street Laugavegur. Buses 1, 3, 6, 11, 12, 13 to city center. Tower climb offers best views of Reykjavik.
Expect Iceland most recognizable building with stunning modernist architecture inspired by volcanic basalt columns. The church interior is bright and minimalist. The tower provides the best panoramic views of Reykjavik. The massive organ has 5,275 pipes. A must-visit landmark.
Tower closed Sundays 10:30am-12:15pm (service)
faq.subtitle Hallgrímskirkja Church
The design was inspired by basalt lava columns, a distinctive volcanic rock formation found throughout Iceland, most famously at Svartifoss waterfall. Architect Guðjón Samúelsson sought to create a building that reflected Icelandic nature.
The statue depicts Leif Eriksson (Leifur Eiríksson), the Norse explorer believed to be the first European to set foot in North America around 1000 AD. It was a gift from the United States to Iceland in 1930.
Useful tips for visiting Hallgrímskirkja Church
Arrive early morning for best photos without crowds. Stop at Gakyeonru pond for Gyeonghoeru reflection. Hanbok rental gives free entry. English guides available on schedule.
Metro: Gyeongbokgung station (Line 3) - Exit 5 directly to entrance. Bus: 171, 172, 601 to palace stop. Taxi: ~₩8,000 from Myeongdong.
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