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Temples & religious sites

Reykjavík Cathedral

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Reykjavík Cathedral

What It Is

Reykjavík Cathedral is a Lutheran cathedral on Austurvöllur square that serves as the seat of the Bishop of Iceland. Located directly next to the parliament building, it is an important historical landmark in the capital. Travellers visit to see its quiet interior and its connection to Iceland's religious and political history.

Getting There

The building is located in central Reykjavík and is easy to reach on foot from anywhere in the city centre, taking about 2 to 5 minutes.

Time to Allow

Allow 15 to 30 minutes for a visit.

When to Visit

Weekday mornings and afternoons are ideal. It rarely gets overcrowded, though walking tours frequently gather in the surrounding square during summer. Avoid visiting during religious services or state ceremonies when sightseeing access is restricted.

Nearby Attractions

You can easily combine a stop here with neighbouring points of interest:

  • Austurvöllur (0.1km): The central public square located right outside.
  • The Settlement Exhibition (0.2km): An archaeological museum featuring preserved Viking ruins.
  • Tjörnin (0.2km): A central pond with surrounding footpaths.
  • Kolaportið (0.3km): An indoor flea market near the harbour area.

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Reykjavík Cathedral

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Itineraries including this place

Good to visit alongside

Austurvöllur

Parks & gardens

Austurvöllur

A central square surrounded by streets lined with cafés, where locals like to gather on fine-weather days. Its proximity to the Parliament House also makes it a frequent stage for rallies large and small.

0.1 km away

the Settlement Exhibition

Museums & galleries

the Settlement Exhibition

The Settlement Exhibition is a museum in downtown Reykjavík where you can see the oldest known Viking-age house ruins in Iceland preserved right where they were excavated. Artifacts found nearby are also on display, offering a close look at daily life in the early settlement period.

0.2 km away

Tjörnin

Nature

Tjörnin

Tjörnin is a shallow lake in Reykjavík that attracts a variety of migratory birds and waterfowl. In winter, the surface freezes over and people can be seen skating on it.

0.2 km away

Kolaportið

Shopping & districts

Kolaportið

Kolaportið is a flea market held in Reykjavík, fun to browse for all kinds of secondhand goods and vintage finds. It originally started in the central bank's underground parking garage before moving to its current location.

0.3 km away

Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík

Temples & religious sites

Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík

A Lutheran church independent of the Icelandic National Church, standing beside Lake Tjörnin in the city center. It's a pleasant spot to take in the modest church building along with the lakeside scenery.

0.3 km away

Reykjavik Art Museum

Museums & galleries

Reykjavik Art Museum

Iceland's largest visual arts institution, spread across three exhibition venues. Each space has its own character, including the one near the old harbor, making them enjoyable to explore.

0.3 km away