Reykjavik · The Classics

Hallgrímskirkja

A rocket-ship church with the best view in the city. The view up top is the point.

Photo · Wikimedia Commons
At a glance
⚖
Verdict
Worth it
🕐
Best time
Early morning
💵
Cost
Church free / tower ticketed
⌛
Time needed
45 min
🚫
Skip if
Bad weather (view's gone)

Hallgrimskirkja is Reykjavik's rocket-ship of a church — a 74-metre concrete tower inspired by Iceland's basalt columns, with the best view in the city at the top.

The intelwhat we'd tell a friend
ReallyThe real deal
Go early to beat the tour groups to the tower lift, because the 360-degree view over the coloured rooftops to the sea and mountains is the whole reason to come, and the queue for the small lift builds fast. The stark interior takes five minutes; the view takes the photos.
SafelyThe risk read
About as safe as anywhere on earth. The only thing to plan for is Iceland's weather flipping fast, because the top is exposed and windy.
DeeplyThe culture
The design echoes Iceland's volcanic landscape and it's a national landmark, but Icelanders are largely secular, so it functions as much as a symbol and viewpoint as a place of worship. Tap water is glacier-pure; buying bottled marks you as a tourist.
Quick answers
Is Hallgrímskirkja worth it?

Yes — mainly for the tower view; go early and hope for clear weather.

Is Hallgrímskirkja free? What does it cost?

The grounds are free; going inside or up is ticketed — book online ahead to skip the queue.

What's the best way to visit Hallgrímskirkja?

Go early to beat the tour groups to the tower lift, because the 360-degree view over the coloured rooftops to the sea and mountains is the whole reason to come, and the queue for the small lift builds fast.

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