Churches in Iceland: 14 Sacred Spots for Your Nordic Adventure

Iceland’s religious buildings tell a fascinating story. Beyond their spiritual purpose, churches in Iceland stand as artistic achievements, historical landmarks, and architectural wonders spanning several centuries.

From the commanding Hallgrímskirkja towering over Reykjavík to charming turf-roofed country chapels dating back hundreds of years, these structures capture something essential about Iceland’s culture and history.

This guide walks you through 14 churches in Iceland that deserve a spot on your itinerary. You’ll find practical details including locations, accessibility information, and insider tips specifically tailored for Indian visitors.

Suggested Read: Iceland Visa for Indians: Your Complete Guide

14 Best Churches in Iceland to Visit

1. Hallgrímskirkja

Hallgrímskirkja stands as Iceland’s most recognizable church and a defining feature of Reykjavík’s skyline. This massive concrete structure rises 74.5 meters above the city, its design inspired by Iceland’s basalt lava columns.

As the largest church in Iceland, it attracts thousands of visitors daily who come to admire its unusual architecture and climb its tower for panoramic views.

• Type: Lutheran

• Location: Hallgrímstorg 1, Reykjavík

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 50 km from Keflavík International Airport (45-minute drive)

• Timings:

  • Winter (October-April): 9:00-17:00 (tower closes at 16:30)

  • Summer (May-September): 9:00-21:00 (tower closes at 20:30)

  • Note: The Tower is closed 10:30-12:15 on Sundays during mass

• Mass Timing: Sundays 11:00-12:15; English mass last Sunday of the month at 14:00

• Contact Number: +354 510 1000

• Website:https://www.hallgrimskirkja.is/

• Email: [email protected]

• Highlights:Iconic modernist architecture, panoramic city views from the 74.5-meter tower, massive pipe organ with 5,275 pipes, statue of Leif Eriksson, regular concerts

• Best Time to Visit: Early mornings to avoid crowds; summer months for extended hours

• Accessibility: Elevator access to tower; wheelchair accessible

• Visitor Tips: Purchase tower tickets at the gift shop; arrive before 10:00 to avoid tourist buses; check the concert schedule online

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2. Akureyrarkirkja (The Church of Akureyri)

Perched on a hill overlooking Akureyri, this striking white church with twin towers serves as the town’s most distinctive landmark.

Designed by the same architect who created Hallgrímskirkja, Guðjón Samúelsson, it features a similar modernist style that makes it one of the famous churches in Iceland beyond the capital.

• Type: Lutheran

• Location: Eyrarlandsvegur, Akureyri, North Iceland

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 5 km from Akureyri Airport (10-minute drive)

• Timings: Generally open daily 10:00-16:00 (hours may vary seasonally)

• Mass Timing: Sundays at 11:00

• Contact Number: +354 462 7700

• Website:http://akureyrarkirkja.is/

• Email:[email protected]

• Highlights: 112 stained glass windows, including some from England’s Coventry Cathedral, a central staircase with 112 steps, spectacular town and fjord views, a 3,200-pipe organ

• Best Time to Visit: Morning for best lighting of stained glass; summer for reliable access

• Accessibility: Limited; steps lead up to the entrance

• Visitor Tips: Take time to climb the hill for excellent photos of the church against mountain backdrops; combine with a visit to Akureyri’s botanical gardens just 10 minutes away

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3. Dómkirkjan í Reykjavík (Reykjavík Cathedral)

Source: wikimedia

While modest compared to Hallgrímskirkja, Reykjavík Cathedral holds greater historical significance as Iceland’s most important Christian church in Iceland.

Located beside Parliament, this simple neoclassical building has been the site of official ceremonies and national events since 1796.

• Type: Church of Iceland

• Location: Austurvöllur Square, downtown Reykjavík

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 50 km from Keflavík International Airport (45-minute drive)

• Timings: Generally open 10:00-16:00 daily

• Mass Timing: Sundays at 11:00

• Contact Number: +354 520 9700

• Website:http://domkirkjan.is/

• Email: [email protected]

• Highlights:Oldest church in Reykjavík (built 1787), historical baptismal font by Bertel Thorvaldsen, pipe organ from 1985, Leifur Eiríksson altar painting, close proximity to Parliament, commemorative plaque for independence leader Jón Sigurðsson

• Best Time to Visit: Year-round; check for special events

• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

• Visitor Tips: Visit during weekday mornings to avoid crowds; often hosts classical music concerts; located near cafés and shops for convenient sightseeing

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4. Víðimýrarkirkja

Source: wikimedia

This charming turf church represents traditional Icelandic architecture at its finest. Built in 1834, it stands as one of the best-preserved turf churches and among the most photographed historic churches in Iceland.

The church combines timber framing with turf walls and roof, creating a uniquely Icelandic aesthetic.

• Type: Lutheran

• Location: Near Varmahlíð, Skagafjörður, North Iceland

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 120 km from Akureyri Airport (1.5-hour drive)

• Timings:Summer: 09:00-18:00; closed in winter

• Mass Timing: Special occasions only

• Highlights:Built in 1834, original church bell from 1630, traditional altar decorations, historic cemetery, turf exterior with black-painted wood gables

• Best Time to Visit: Summer months (June-August)

• Accessibility: Limited; uneven ground and small steps

• Visitor Tips: Small entrance fee; photography allowed but no flash; combine with other heritage sites in Skagafjörður like Glaumbær farm

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5. Grafarkirkja

Believed to be Iceland’s oldest surviving turf church, Grafarkirkja dates to the late 17th century, though the current structure includes reconstruction work.

This tiny church represents the earliest form of churches in Iceland and offers visitors a glimpse into the country’s medieval religious practices.

• Type: Lutheran

• Location: Near Hofsós, Skagafjörður, North Iceland

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 140 km from Akureyri Airport (2-hour drive)

• Timings: Open by appointment or during summer months

• Mass Timing: Rare special occasions only

• Highlights:Iceland’s oldest turf church (built late 17th century), original woodcarvings and panels, turf construction techniques, and ancient cemetery

• Best Time to Visit: Summer months (June-August)

• Accessibility: Very limited; uneven ground and narrow doorways

• Visitor Tips:Contact ahead for visits; combine with a swim at the infinity pool in Hofsós which offers stunning views over the fjord; bring good walking shoes as the ground can be uneven

6. Árbæjarkirkja

Source: wikipedia

Located within Reykjavík’s open-air museum, Árbæjarkirkja provides insight into rural worship in 19th-century Iceland.

While technically a reconstruction, this church accurately represents the traditional building techniques used for many churches in Iceland before modern construction methods arrived.

• Type: Lutheran

• Location: Árbæjarsafn Museum, Reykjavík

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 50 km from Keflavík International Airport (45-minute drive)

• Timings: Open with museum hours (typically 10:00-17:00 summer, shorter in winter)

• Mass Timing: Special occasions only

• Contact Number: +354 587 2405

• Website:http://www.arbaejarkirkja.is/

• Email: [email protected]

• Highlights: Period furnishings, traditional religious artifacts, part of a larger open-air museum featuring over 20 buildings, museum context showing rural life

• Best Time to Visit: Summer when the open-air museum is fully operational

• Accessibility: Museum grounds are partially accessible; the church has limited accessibility

• Visitor Tips: Entry is via a museum ticket, which allows you to see not just the church but also experience a reconstructed Icelandic village; guided tours are available in English

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7. Hvalsneskirkja

This stone church on the Reykjanes Peninsula offers a different architectural style among churches in Iceland. Built in 1887 from local stone, it has withstood fierce Atlantic storms for over a century.

The church’s connection to poet Hallgrímur Pétursson (who served as pastor here) adds literary significance.

• Type: Lutheran

• Location: Hvalsnes, Reykjanes Peninsula

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 26 km from Keflavík International Airport (25-minute drive)

• Timings: Limited; primarily open by appointment

• Mass Timing: Occasional services; check locally

• Highlights:Built in 1887 from local stone, the grave of poet Steinunn Hallgrímsdóttir (daughter of Hallgrímur Pétursson), a hanging ship model, antique church artifacts

• Best Time to Visit: Summer months for most reliable access

• Accessibility: Limited; small steps and uneven ground

• Visitor Tips: Makes an excellent stop when exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula; easily combined with visits to the Bridge Between Continents or the Blue Lagoon; key available from nearby farm (donation expected)

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8. Búðakirkja (The Black Church of Búðir)

One of Iceland’s most photographed churches, Búðakirkja stands starkly against the Snæfellsnes Peninsula’s dramatic landscape.

Its distinctive black exterior and isolated position make it among the most visually striking famous churches in Iceland and a favorite for photographers and wedding couples.

• Type: Protestant

• Location: Búðir, Snæfellsnes Peninsula

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 180 km from Reykjavík Domestic Airport (2.5-hour drive)

• Timings: Generally open daily during daylight hours

• Mass Timing: Primarily weddings and special events

• Website:https://www.budakirkja.is/

• Email:[email protected]

• Highlights:Iconic black timber church (rebuilt 1987), gold-painted altar and pulpit from 1750, dramatic landscape setting, popular wedding venue, historic cemetery dating to 1703

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening for best photography lighting; accessible year-round

• Accessibility: Gravel path access with some uneven ground

• Visitor Tips: The church is free to visit; respect the surroundings as it’s still an active church; combine with exploration of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula; the hotel next door serves excellent food if you need refreshments; highly popular for wedding photography so be respectful of ceremonies

9. Stykkishólmskirkja

This modernist church in the fishing town of Stykkishólmur showcases contemporary Icelandic architecture.

Completed in 1990, its distinctive curved design resembles a whale skeleton or a ship’s hull, making it one of the most architecturally interesting and top churches to visit in Iceland.

• Type: Lutheran

• Location: Stykkishólmur, Snæfellsnes Peninsula

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 170 km from Reykjavík Domestic Airport (2.5-hour drive)

• Timings: Generally open 10:00-16:00 (may vary seasonally)

• Mass Timing: Sundays at 11:00

• Contact Number: +354 438 1560

• Website:https://www.stykkisholmskirkja.is/

• Highlights:Striking modern design by architect Jón Haraldsson, excellent acoustics, regular organ concerts, harbor and town views, art installations

• Best Time to Visit: Summer for reliable opening hours

• Accessibility: Good; ramp access

• Visitor Tips:Check local listings for concerts and attend a summer concert if possible; climb to the church for excellent views of the harbor and Breiðafjörður bay; combine with a boat tour from the harbor to see nearby islands

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10. Seyðisfjarðarkirkja (Blue Church)

This charming blue wooden church in eastern Iceland has become a cultural icon. Built in 1920, the pastel blue church with white trim stands at the end of the town’s famous “rainbow road” and serves as a cultural venue as well as a worship place for Christians in Iceland.

• Type: Lutheran

• Location: Seyðisfjörður, East Iceland

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 27 km from Egilsstaðir Airport (30-minute drive)

• Timings: Variable; typically open on summer days 10:00-16:00

• Mass Timing: Sunday services; check locally

• Highlights: Distinctive blue exterior, rainbow-painted street leading to the church, summer music festivals, picturesque fjord setting

• Best Time to Visit:Summer, when the town is most active

• Accessibility: Good access from street level

• Visitor Tips:Try to attend a summer concert if possible; the acoustics are excellent; the drive to Seyðisfjörður over the mountain pass offers spectacular views (check road conditions in winter)

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11. Hofskirkja

As the last turf church built in Iceland (completed in 1884), Hofskirkja offers visitors a look at a construction style no longer practiced. This historic church in Iceland continues to serve its parish and represents the end of a millennium-old building tradition.

• Type: Lutheran

• Location: Hof, Öræfi, Southeast Iceland

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 140 km from Höfn Airport (1.5-hour drive)

• Timings: Open summer months 9:00-18:00

• Mass Timing: Special occasions

• Highlights:Last turf church built in Iceland (1884), traditional turf roof, historic cemetery with unusual stone markers, working parish church

• Best Time to Visit: Summer months (June-August)

• Accessibility: Limited; uneven ground and a small entrance

• Visitor Tips: Small entrance fee (approximately Rs. 500); located on Ring Road, making it easy to access; respectful photography only; combine with the nearby Skaftafell area of Vatnajökull National Park

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12. Skálholt Cathedral

Source: wikimedia

For over 700 years, Skálholt served as Iceland’s religious and cultural center. Though the current cathedral dates to 1963, this site represents the heart of Christian churches in Iceland throughout the medieval period and offers rich historical connections.

• Type: Lutheran

• Location: Skálholt, South Iceland

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 110 km from Reykjavík Domestic Airport (1.5-hour drive)

• Timings: Open daily 9:00-18:00

• Mass Timing: Sundays at 11:00; summer music festival services

• Contact Number: +354 862 4164

• Website:https://www.skalholt.is/

• Email:[email protected]

• Highlights:Historical bishopric, modern cathedral (built 1963), archaeological remains, summer music festival, sarcophagus of Bishop Páll Jónsson, modern stained glass

• Best Time to Visit: July during Skálholt Summer Concerts

• Accessibility: Good; wheelchair accessible

• Visitor Tips: Visit the tunnel display showing archaeological excavations; attend a concert during the summer festival; combine with the Golden Circle touring route

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13. Hólar Cathedral

Source: wikimedia

As the historical religious center of northern Iceland, Hólar Cathedral represents the country’s second episcopal see.

Built from distinctive red sandstone, this cathedral stands as one of the most significant historic churches in Iceland and continues as an active parish church.

• Type: Lutheran

• Location: Hólar, Hjaltadalur, North Iceland

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 110 km from Akureyri Airport (1.5-hour drive)

• Timings: Open daily 9:00-17:00 (summer)

• Mass Timing: Sundays at 11:00

• Highlights:Oldest stone church in Iceland (current structure from 1763), red sandstone construction, 16th-century altarpiece, ancient manuscripts, beautiful valley setting, historic site, bishopric since 1106

• Best Time to Visit: Summer months (June-August)

• Accessibility: Generally accessible with some uneven ground

• Visitor Tips:Visit the university museum to learn about the site’s 900-year history; accommodation is available nearby; consider attending a summer concert if available; hiking trails in the surrounding mountains; trout fishing is available locally

14. Kálfatjarnarkirkja

This impressive wooden church on the Reykjanes Peninsula stands as one of the larger parish churches in Iceland. Built in 1893 and renovated in 2003, the church combines traditional elements with practical modern features.

• Type: Lutheran

• Location: Vogar, Reykjanes Peninsula

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 20 km from Keflavík International Airport (15-minute drive)

• Timings: Limited; primarily by appointment

• Mass Timing: Special occasions

• Contact Number: +354 421 5200

• Website:kirkjukort.net/kalfatjarnarkirkja

• Email:[email protected]

• Highlights:Large wooden church built in 1893, white wooden exterior, traditional altar decorations, historic cemetery, scenic rural setting

• Best Time to Visit: Summer months for most reliable access

• Accessibility: Limited; steps at entrance

• Visitor Tips:Contact ahead for visits; makes an excellent stop when exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula; can be combined with nearby hot springs or the Bridge Between Continents

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FAQs

How many churches are in Iceland?

Iceland has approximately 350-380 churches in Iceland, ranging from grand cathedrals to tiny countryside chapels. This high number reflects Iceland’s strong Lutheran heritage and historically dispersed population, with many small communities having their own church.

Can Christians pray in public in Iceland?

Yes, Christians can freely pray in public in Iceland. The country guarantees religious freedom, and while Icelanders tend to be private about religious practice, there are no restrictions on public prayer or religious expression for locals or tourists.

Can Christians get married in Iceland?

Yes, Christians, including foreign visitors, can get married in churches in Iceland. Advance booking and paperwork (at least 3 weeks prior) are required. Popular spots include Hallgrímskirkja and Búðakirkja.

What are the 4 largest churches in Iceland?

The four largest churches in Iceland are:

1. Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavík (74.5 meters tall)

2. Akureyrarkirkja in Akureyri

3. Landakotskirkja (Catholic Cathedral) in Reykjavík

4. Skálholt Cathedral in South Iceland

Are there any Catholics in Iceland?

Yes, around 4% of Iceland’s population is Catholic. Key Catholic churches in Iceland include Landakotskirkja in Reykjavík and St. Joseph’s in Hafnarfjörður, serving a growing Catholic community.

Can tourists attend church services in Iceland?

Yes, tourists can attend services at churches in Iceland with mass timings. Dress respectfully, arrive early, and follow customs. Some Reykjavík churches occasionally offer services in English.

Do I need permission to visit a church in Iceland?

No permission is needed to visit major churches in Iceland, like Hallgrímskirkja, during open hours. Some rural or turf churches may require advance arrangements. Always respect signs, behavior guidelines, and access rules.

Is there parking available at churches in Iceland?

Most churches in Iceland have nearby free parking, especially outside cities. Hallgrímskirkja offers limited paid parking. In winter, snow may affect access to remote churches in Iceland.