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Temples & religious sites

Reykjavík Cathedral

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Reykjavík Cathedral

What It Is

Reykjavík Cathedral is the principal church of Iceland's Lutheran denomination, situated on Austurvöllur Square in the old town. Standing directly next to the parliament building, it is recognized for the tradition of holding a mass here whenever parliament opens. Visitors go to see its historic architecture and its connection to Icelandic civic life.

Getting There

Located in the city centre, the building is a 2- to 5-minute walk from major streets like Lækjargata. Local buses stop nearby within short walking distance.

Time to Allow

Allow 15 to 30 minutes. The interior is modest in scale, giving visitors ample time to view the nave and altar.

When to Go

Go between religious services to ensure open access. The site rarely gets crowded, but entry may be limited during church services, private events, or parliamentary opening ceremonies. Weekday daytime visits offer the fewest disruptions.

Nearby Attractions

Combine your stop with these nearby sights:

  • Austurvöllur (0.1km): The historic square located directly in front.
  • The Settlement Exhibition (0.2km): An underground museum with excavated Viking ruins.
  • Tjörnin (0.2km): A downtown lake bordered by walking paths.
  • Kolaportið (0.3km): A weekend indoor market close to the harbour.

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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Reykjavík Cathedral Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

2 nights, 3 days

Reykjavík 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

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

3 nights, 4 days

Reykjavík 4-Day Itinerary (3 Nights)

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

Good to visit alongside

Austurvöllur

Parks & gardens

Austurvöllur

Austurvöllur is a square popular with Reykjavík locals, surrounded by cafés that make it a pleasant spot to relax on a sunny day. Located next to the Parliament House, it also frequently hosts rallies large and small.

0.1 km away
the Settlement Exhibition

Museums & galleries

the Settlement Exhibition

Run by the Reykjavík City Museum, this exhibition displays Iceland's oldest known Viking longhouse ruins right where they were excavated. Other artifacts unearthed around the city are also on display.

0.2 km away
Tjörnin

Nature

Tjörnin

Tjörnin is a shallow lake in downtown Reykjavík that serves as a haven for many kinds of birds. In winter its surface freezes over and fills with people out skating.

0.2 km away
Kolaportið

Shopping & districts

Kolaportið

Kolaportið is a long-running flea market in Reykjavík, Iceland, where vendors sell all kinds of secondhand goods and small items. It's a fun place to browse and hunt for a special souvenir.

0.3 km away
Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík

Temples & religious sites

Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík

Fríkirkjan is a Lutheran church operating independently of the Icelandic National Church, standing on the shore of Lake Tjörnin in central Reykjavík. It's a nice stop to combine with a walk around the lake.

0.3 km away
Reykjavik Art Museum

Museums & galleries

Reykjavik Art Museum

The Reykjavik Art Museum is Iceland's largest art museum, spread across three locations in the city. Each space showcases a different range of artworks.

0.3 km away