About Hallgrímskirkja

Hallgrímskirkja is a Lutheran church in the city. It is one of Iceland's tallest structures and the largest church. The famous architect Guojon Samuelsson took over 34 years to build the 74-meter-high structure. The columns are made up of the aesthetic volcano basalt. One can also see the grand statue of first European to come to America, Leifur Eriksson, from the top of the church.

 

Hallgrímskirkja stands guard over Reykjavík with a view of every inch of the city. The church is both a national sanctuary and parish church. Its stepped concrete facade is built in the fashion of modernism, a foreshadowing of the Icelandic landscape. The church is named after the 17th-century author of Hymns of the Passion, clergyman Hallgrímur Pétursson. Hallgrímskirkja is a part of the Evangelical-Lutheran Church of Iceland. Hallgrímskirkja is one of the most loved and cherished places by tourists in Iceland. Every day thousands of people visit the church. On every last Sunday in the month, English service with holy communion is held at 2 pm. From 12 – 12:30 pm, Meditation with organ music is accessible on Thursdays.

Must See

Hallgrimskirkja hosts local concerts in the evening on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays from June-August. Attend one of these to experience local Icelandic life.

How to reach

Take the no. 17 bus to the Landspitalinn stop. The fare should be 100 ISK.

Tips

  • Make sure to spend your time observing the intricacies in the architecture and decor of this church. Each detail speaks Icelandic history and culture.
  • The elevator ride costs about $10 (US) and takes you up 8 floors.
  • If you're lucky, the organist will be in the office. His music will guide you on your tour.
  • If you're visiting in the cold months, limit time spent outside. Don't stay on the top floor too long.
  • Get the full view of Reykjavik from the church's bell tower.
  • Don't forget to carry your own water. There aren't many drinking fountains around.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes.
  • Always carry winter wear. Even in the summer.

Visit Time

May to September:

Sunday:      09:00 a.m. to 09:00 p.m. 

Monday:      09:00 a.m. to 09:00 p.m. 

Tuesday:      09:00 a.m. to 09:00 p.m.

Wednesday: 09:00 a.m. to 09:00 p.m. 

Thursday:    09:00 a.m. to 09:00 p.m  

Friday:         09:00 a.m. to 09:00 p.m.

Saturday:     09:00 a.m. to 09:00 p.m. 

October to April

Sunday:       09:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. 

Monday:       09:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. 

Tuesday:      09:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.

Wednesday: 09:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. 

Thursday:     09:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m  

Friday:          09:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.

Saturday:     09:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. 

Time Icon

Waiting Time

Parking wait time estimate is 5-10 mins.

 

Entrance Fee Icon

Entrance Fee

Yes

Church entrance fee: Free

Tower entrance fee: 

Adults - 900 ISK

Children (age 7 -14) - 100 ISK per head

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Time you can spend Icon

Time you can spend

2 hours

 

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Weather

Clear Sky -4.1°C

 

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