Under the Basalt Spire: Climbing the View from Hallgrímskirkja

An architectural lookout over Reykjavík — where basalt-inspired design meets panoramic city views.

Reykjavik, Capital Region

•

By Eric Crews

You turn a corner on a short Reykjavik street and the city’s vertical punctuation arrives: a white tower that seems to have been carved from frozen lava, its fluted façade catching a pale northern light. Up close, Hallgrímskirkja is less a building than a piece of landscape that migrated into town — basalt pillars given a civic voice. From the sidewalk, tourists craning their necks and locals hustling past, there’s the sharp inhale of expectation that makes visiting Reykjavik feel at once intimate and epic.

Trail Wisdom

Visit at golden hour

Arrive early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds at the tower observation deck.

Bring layers and a windproof

The tower platform is exposed; a windproof shell and warm mid-layer make viewing comfortable year-round.

Combine with a walking tour

Pair your visit with an architecture or street-food walking tour to add cultural context and local flavors.

Buy small-elevator ticket

There is usually a modest fee for the observation elevator — carry small cash or card and factor this into timing.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

•Þúfa art installation on the harbour — a contemplative platform with city and sea views
•The quiet paths around Tjörnin pond, especially at sunrise for mirrored reflections of the skyline

Wildlife

Arctic tern (near coastal areas in summer), Harbor seals (occasionally seen near the shoreline)

Conservation Note

Reykjavik encourages low-impact city tourism: stay on sidewalks, respect interior spaces, avoid drone use over crowds, and support local guides who follow sustainable practices.

Designed by Guðjón Samúelsson and built between 1945 and 1986, Hallgrímskirkja references Icelandic basalt formations and stands as a modern national symbol.

Seasonal Guide

spring

Best for: milder winds, fewer tourists, early-bloom city walks

Challenges: changeable weather, occasional late snow

Spring brings thawing streets and fewer crowds; dress in layers and expect brisk, changeable weather between sunny spells and showers.

summer

Best for: long daylight views, late-night photography, pairing with food tours

Challenges: peak tourist season, busier observation deck

Summer’s long days offer extended viewing hours and warm streets for café stops, though popular times can be crowded.

fall

Best for: clear atmospheric light, fewer visitors, architectural tours

Challenges: shortening days, windy conditions

Fall sharpens the air and the views — ideal for photographers — but bring wind protection as conditions can turn quickly.

winter

Best for: Northern Lights viewing nearby, quiet interiors, festive city atmosphere

Challenges: short daylight windows, icy sidewalks

Winter offers stark, dramatic light and the possibility of auroras overhead; plan shorter outdoor stints and watch for ice.

Photographer's Notes

Shoot the façade in side light (late afternoon) to accentuate its fluted forms; use a wide-angle lens for interior nave shots and a 35–85mm for tower panoramas; for aurora attempts, bring a tripod, set manual exposure around 10–20s and ISO 800–1600, and scout a low-foreground spot for composition.

What to Bring

✓

Windproof jacketEssential

Blocks the chilling bay wind on the observation deck and during strolls around the city.

✓

Sturdy walking shoesEssential

Good traction for icy sidewalks and cobbled streets around the church.

○

Compact tripod or monopod

Aids night photography for auroras or low-light interiors of the church.

○

Portable charger

Keep your phone and camera topped up for photos and maps while exploring the city.

Common Questions

Can you go up Hallgrímskirkja’s tower?

Yes — there is an elevator to the observation deck for panoramic views; a small fee typically applies and opening hours vary by season.

Is Hallgrímskirkja accessible for visitors with limited mobility?

Most of the ground-level areas are accessible and there is elevator access to the tower, but facilities may have limitations; check specific accessibility services in advance.

How long does a typical visit take?

A basic visit with the tower ride takes 30–60 minutes; combine with nearby walking or food tours for a half- to full-day experience.

Are there guided tours that include Hallgrímskirkja?

Yes — many Reykjavik walking and architecture tours include the church as a highlight; private tuk-tuk and driving tours also offer quick stops.

Can I attend concerts inside Hallgrímskirkja?

The church regularly hosts organ recitals and concerts; check the local events calendar or inquire at the visitor desk for schedules.

Is photography allowed inside the church?

Non-flash photography is generally allowed, but be respectful during services and concerts and follow any posted guidelines.

What to Pack

Windproof jacket (for exposed viewing deck), sturdy walking shoes (city sidewalks and winter ice), compact tripod (low-light and aurora shots), reusable water bottle (Reykjavik tap water is excellent).

Did You Know

Hallgrímskirkja’s design was inspired by Iceland’s columnar basalt formations and its construction spanned from 1945 to 1986, making it a post-war national project by architect Guðjón Samúelsson.

Quick Travel Tips

1) Arrive early to avoid tour groups; 2) Bring a small card for the tower fee; 3) Combine the visit with a nearby food or architecture walking tour; 4) Use Reykjavik’s compact layout—everything is a short walk or tuk-tuk away.

Local Flavor

Pop into a nearby café for strong Icelandic coffee and a slice of kleinur, try the famed Bæjarins Beztu hot dog a short walk away, and time a Saturday visit with a local church concert to hear the organ and mingle with Reykjavikers.

Logistics Snapshot

Location: Central Reykjavík | Tower fee: small (card accepted) | Time needed: 30–60 minutes | Accessibility: largely accessible; check tower specifics | Nearby: Laugavegur, Tjörnin, Perlan.

Sustainability Note

Respect sacred spaces, avoid drone flights over crowds, walk or use electric tuk-tuks for short city hops, and hire licensed local guides to support sustainable tourism practices.

Continue Reading

land adventuresothers