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Tjörnin

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Tjörnin

Tjörnin

Tjörnin is a shallow lake located in the heart of Reykjavík. Travelers visit this site to observe migratory birds and waterfowl. During the winter months, the lake surface often freezes, allowing locals and visitors to skate on the ice.

Getting There

The lake is situated within the city center. It is accessible by foot from most central hotels and the main shopping streets. Depending on your starting point in the downtown area, the walk typically takes between 5 and 15 minutes.

Duration of Visit

A visit to the lake generally requires 30 to 60 minutes for a stroll around the perimeter and bird watching. If you intend to spend time skating during the winter, allow additional time.

When to Visit

The lake is accessible year-round. Winter is the specific season for those interested in ice skating, while other seasons are better for observing diverse bird species. The area is a popular public space and can get crowded during weekends and peak tourist seasons.

Nearby Attractions

Because of its central location, the lake can be combined with several other sites within walking distance:

  • Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík (0.2km)
  • National Gallery of Iceland (0.2km)
  • Reykjavík Cathedral (0.2km)
  • Austurvöllur (0.3km)

Updated September 9, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

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Stays near Tjörnin

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Tjörnin Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

2 nights, 3 days

Kópavogur 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

A 3-day route through Kópavogur grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

3 nights, 4 days

Kópavogur 4-Day Itinerary (3 Nights)

A 4-day route through Kópavogur grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

Good to visit alongside

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.

0.2 km away
National Gallery of Iceland

Museums & galleries

National Gallery of Iceland

The National Gallery of Iceland is an art museum in Reykjavík that houses a collection of Icelandic art. You can see works by leading Icelandic painters as well as pieces that offer a glimpse into traditional culture.

0.2 km away
Reykjavík Cathedral

Temples & religious sites

Reykjavík Cathedral

Reykjavík Cathedral is a Lutheran cathedral on Austurvöllur square in downtown Reykjavík and serves as the seat of the Bishop of Iceland. It stands right next to the parliament building, making it easy to explore both on a stroll.

0.2 km away
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.

0.3 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.

0.3 km away
Roman Catholic Diocese of Reykjavík

Temples & religious sites

Roman Catholic Diocese of Reykjavík

The Diocese of Reykjavík oversees the Catholic Church throughout Iceland and is under the direct jurisdiction of the Holy See. It is a small community with just over ten thousand members.

0.4 km away