Can I visit the tower at Hallgrimskirkja?

Yes, you can take an elevator to the observation deck at the top of the 74.5-meter tower for a small admission fee. The panoramic views over Reykjavik's colorful rooftops, Mount Esja, and the surrounding landscape are among the best in the city. The church itself is free to enter.

What are the opening hours for Hallgrimskirkja?

The church is generally open daily from 9:00 to 21:00 in summer (May–September) and 9:00 to 17:00 in winter (October–April). Tower hours may differ slightly, and the church closes to tourists during services. Check the official website for current hours before visiting.

Does Hallgrimskirkja have a pipe organ?

Yes, the church houses a massive pipe organ built by the German organ builder Johannes Klais. It stands 15 meters tall, weighs 25 tonnes, and has 5,275 pipes. Organ concerts are held regularly, especially during summer, and are a good way to hear the building's acoustics.

What is the statue in front of Hallgrimskirkja?

The statue depicts Leifur Eiriksson (Leif Erikson), the Norse explorer believed to have been the first European to reach North America around 1000 AD. It was a gift from the United States to Iceland in 1930, commemorating the 1000th anniversary of the Althingi parliament. The statue was sculpted by Alexander Stirling Calder.

Hallgrimskirkja: Reykjavik's Landmark Church

A Lutheran church and Reykjavik's most recognizable landmark, with an observation deck at the top of its 74.5-meter tower.

Last reviewed March 3, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel TeamEditorial policy

Location

Reykjavik City Center

Skólavörðustígur hill • Central Reykjavik

Hallgrimskirkja is a Lutheran parish church that dominates the Reykjavik skyline from its hilltop position on Skólavörðustígur. At 74.5 meters, it is Iceland's tallest church and one of the tallest structures in the country. Designed by state architect Guðjón Samúelsson in 1937 and inspired by the columnar basalt formations found across Iceland's landscapes, the church took 41 years to build, with construction spanning from 1945 to 1986. In front of the church stands a statue of Leifur Eiríksson, a gift from the United States in 1930.

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Last reviewed: 2026-03-03

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Official sources to check

Tower Height

74.5 m

Iceland's tallest church, with an elevator to the observation deck

Pipe Organ

5,275 pipes

Built by Johannes Klais, 15 m tall and 25 tonnes

Location

Central Reykjavik

Top of Skólavörðustígur, walkable from downtown

What to Expect

Tower Observation Deck

Elevator ride to the top for 360-degree views of Reykjavik, the harbor, Mount Esja, and on clear days, Snæfellsjökull glacier

Basalt-Inspired Architecture

The expressionist concrete facade mimics Iceland's columnar basalt formations; the silhouette is visible across much of the city

Klais Pipe Organ

A 5,275-pipe organ, played in regular concerts that suit the church's acoustics

Leifur Eiriksson Statue

Bronze statue of the Norse explorer by Alexander Stirling Calder, gifted by the United States in 1930

Skólavörðustígur Street

The street leading up to the church is lined with shops, galleries, and cafes, and is worth a wander in itself

Interior Space

A tall, plain nave with stained glass windows and a calm atmosphere suited for reflection

Getting There

Hallgrimskirkja is in the heart of Reykjavik at the top of Skólavörðustígur street, easily walkable from anywhere in the city center. From the main shopping street Laugavegur, simply walk uphill on Skólavörðustígur for about 10 minutes. Limited street parking is available nearby, or use the public parking garage at Laugavegur. City buses stop within a short walk of the church.

Best Time to Visit

Hallgrimskirkja is open year-round. For the best tower views, visit on a clear day when you can see to Snæfellsjökull glacier on the western horizon. Summer has the longest opening hours, and the midnight sun makes for good photo light. Winter mornings are quieter with fewer crowds. If you can, time your visit to an organ concert; schedules are posted on the church's website.

Planning help

Hallgrimskirkja FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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