10 Must-See Iceland Reykjavík Attractions & Landmarks

Reykjavík is a small but exciting city full of history, nature, and creativity. As Iceland’s capital, it’s the northernmost capital in the world, with about 140,000 people living there. Despite its size, Reykjavík has a lot to see and do! 

The city was founded by Viking settlers in the 9th century and has grown into a modern and lively place with unique buildings, museums, and natural wonders. 

Whether you’re into history, art, or just love exploring new places, Reykjavík has something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip, don’t miss these top 10 must-see attractions and landmarks!

1. Hallgrímskirkja Church

Hallgrímskirkja Church is one of the most famous and tallest buildings in Reykjavík, standing at 74.5 meters (244 feet) high. It was designed by Icelandic architect Guðjón Samúelsson, who was inspired by the shapes of Iceland’s basalt lava columns. 

The church's towering presence makes it visible from almost anywhere in the city, serving as a key landmark for both locals and visitors. Inside, the church has a minimalistic design, but its grand pipe organ, built by the German organ builder Johannes Klais, is a highlight. The organ has over 5,000 pipes and produces powerful sounds that fill the church during concerts and services.

One of the main attractions of Hallgrímskirkja is its observation tower. Visitors can take an elevator to the top, where they are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Reykjavík, the ocean, and the surrounding mountains. 

2. Harpa Concert Hall

Harpa Concert Hall is one of Reykjavík’s most stunning modern buildings, located right on the waterfront. Opened in 2011, this architectural masterpiece was designed by Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson in collaboration with Henning Larsen Architects. 

The building’s striking glass facade is inspired by Iceland’s basalt landscapes and reflects different colors depending on the time of day and weather conditions, making it a breathtaking sight.

Harpa is not just beautiful on the outside—it is also the heart of Reykjavík’s cultural scene. The concert hall is home to the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and the Icelandic Opera, hosting world-class performances, musical events, and festivals throughout the year. Inside, visitors can explore its elegant halls, enjoy guided tours, and experience its excellent acoustics during live performances.

3. The Sun Voyager

The Sun Voyager is a beautiful and symbolic sculpture located along Reykjavík’s scenic waterfront. Created by Icelandic artist Jón Gunnar Árnason, this striking steel structure resembles a Viking ship, but it’s more than just a tribute to Iceland’s seafaring history. The artist designed it as a "dream boat" that represents hope, freedom, and the endless possibilities of the journey ahead.

Unveiled in 1990, the sculpture sits by the water with the mountains in the background, making it one of the most picturesque spots in the city. Many visitors come here to take in the stunning views, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light reflects off the metal, creating a magical glow.

4. Perlan (The Pearl)

Perlan is one of Reykjavík’s most unique and fascinating landmarks. Originally built as hot water storage tanks in the 1980s, it was later transformed into a cultural and educational attraction. The building features a massive glass dome sitting atop six large water tanks, creating a futuristic and eye-catching structure.

Inside, visitors can explore the Wonders of Iceland exhibition, which provides an interactive and immersive experience about Iceland’s natural wonders, including glaciers, volcanoes, earthquakes, and geothermal energy. 

One of the main highlights is the indoor ice cave, which allows guests to walk through a real man-made glacier, giving a sense of what it’s like inside Iceland’s massive ice formations.

Perlan is also home to a state-of-the-art planetarium, where visitors can enjoy a stunning Northern Lights show and learn about Iceland’s night sky. The observation deck on top of Perlan offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Reykjavík and its surrounding landscapes, including mountains, the ocean, and even distant volcanoes on clear days.

5. National Museum of Iceland

The National Museum of Iceland is the best place to explore the country’s rich history and culture. Located in Reykjavík, this museum takes visitors on a journey through Iceland’s past, from the Viking Age to the present day. 

One of the museum’s most famous exhibits is the Valþjófsstaður door, a beautifully carved medieval church door that dates back to the 13th century. The museum also features old weapons, tools, traditional clothing, and household items that give a glimpse into everyday life in Iceland’s early days.

Interactive displays and multimedia presentations make the experience engaging for visitors of all ages. There are also temporary exhibitions that highlight different aspects of Icelandic culture, from ancient settlements to modern society. For those interested in genealogy, the museum provides resources to explore Icelandic family history.

6. Laugavegur Street

Laugavegur is Reykjavík's most famous shopping and entertainment street. The name means "Wash Road," as it was once the route to the hot springs where locals did their laundry. Today, it is a bustling area filled with shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars.

During the day, visitors can explore a variety of unique boutiques selling Icelandic fashion, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. There are also cozy cafes where you can enjoy a cup of Icelandic coffee and local pastries. Restaurants along the street offer everything from traditional Icelandic dishes to international cuisine, making it a great place to grab a meal.

As the sun sets, Laugavegur transforms into the heart of Reykjavík's nightlife. The street is lined with lively bars, clubs, and music venues, making it the perfect place for those who want to experience the city's energetic atmosphere. 

7. Tjörnin Lake

Tjörnin Lake, often called "The Pond" by locals, is a beautiful and peaceful spot in the heart of Reykjavík. This shallow lake is surrounded by colorful historic buildings, making it one of the most picturesque places in the city. It’s a great place for a relaxing stroll, with walking paths and benches along the water where visitors can sit and enjoy the view.

One of the highlights of Tjörnin is the abundance of birdlife. The lake is home to many species, including swans, ducks, and geese. In the winter, when most of the lake freezes over, a small section remains unfrozen due to geothermal heating, allowing birds to stay in the area year-round. This makes it a popular spot for birdwatching and photography.

Tjörnin is also surrounded by important landmarks. Reykjavík City Hall sits on its edge and features a large 3D map of Iceland inside. Near the lake, you’ll also find the National Gallery of Iceland, which showcases incredible Icelandic art. 

8. The Settlement Exhibition

The Settlement Exhibition is a fascinating museum in Reykjavík that takes visitors back to the earliest days of Icelandic history. Located in the heart of the city, this underground exhibition was built around the ruins of a Viking longhouse that dates back to around 871 AD. Discovered during construction work in 2001, these ancient remains provide a rare glimpse into how Iceland’s first settlers lived.

Inside the museum, visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins and see artifacts from the Viking Age, such as tools, household items, and animal bones. 

The exhibition also uses interactive displays, touchscreens, and multimedia presentations to bring history to life. You can learn about the daily lives of the first Icelanders, their farming techniques, and how they adapted to the harsh environment.

9. Imagine Peace Tower

The Imagine Peace Tower is a powerful and symbolic monument dedicated to world peace. Created by artist Yoko Ono in memory of her late husband, John Lennon, it serves as a tribute to his vision of a world without war and violence. The tower is located on Viðey Island, a peaceful and uninhabited island just off the coast of Reykjavík, which can be reached by a short ferry ride.

The monument itself consists of a white stone structure with the words "Imagine Peace" inscribed in 24 languages. What makes it truly special is the strong beam of light that shoots up into the sky from the tower. 

The light is made up of several high-powered spotlights that merge into a single bright column, visible from miles away. The tower is lit on specific dates each year, including John Lennon's birthday (October 9) and the anniversary of his death (December 8), as well as from winter to early spring when the nights are longer and darker.

10. Reykjavík City Hall and Austurvöllur Square

Reykjavík City Hall is a striking modern building located on the edge of Tjörnin Lake. It was designed to blend seamlessly with nature, with large windows offering beautiful views of the lake and its birdlife. 

Inside, one of the highlights is the massive 3D relief map of Iceland, which provides a unique perspective on the country’s geography. The building also hosts art exhibitions, cultural events, and public offices.

Just outside City Hall is Austurvöllur Square, a lively gathering spot in the heart of the city. This historic square is surrounded by important buildings, including the Alþingi (Iceland’s Parliament), the Domkirkjan (Reykjavík Cathedral), and charming cafés and restaurants. 

Locals often come here to relax on the grassy lawns, especially during summer when the sun shines late into the evening.

Reykjavík’s Must-See Attractions at a Glance

Reykjavík is a city where history and modern life come together in a unique way. From ancient Viking ruins to futuristic glass buildings, the city offers something for every traveler. 

Whether you enjoy exploring cultural landmarks, relaxing by the waterfront, or diving into the vibrant city life, these top attractions will give you a well-rounded experience of Iceland’s capital.