10 Must Visit Churches in Iceland

Exploring Iceland’s unique and picturesque churches offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich history, culture, and architectural heritage. During our 18-day journey around Iceland, we visited several churches, each with its own story and charm. Below are 10 of our favourite churches that have made it onto our must-visit stunning churches in Iceland list. They are presented in the order we visited them during our clockwise road trip around the island.

If you are considering a road trip around Iceland, read my 11 Tips for Driving in Iceland.

1 – Reykholt Church

Reykholt, located in West Iceland, is a site of great historical significance. The older of the two churches on this site dates back to 1896 and is nestled behind its newer counterpart, surrounded by an old cemetery. This church is open to the public, allowing visitors to step back in time and appreciate its historical context. Reykholt was once the home of Snorri Sturluson, a 13th-century historian, poet, and politician, making it a cultural landmark worth exploring.

2 – Búðakirkja (Budir Black Church)

Situated on the southern side of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Búðakirkja, commonly known as the Black Church, is one of Iceland’s most photographed landmarks. Its black wooden exterior starkly contrasts the rugged Icelandic landscape, providing a striking backdrop for photography. The church was originally built in 1703 and has been rebuilt several times since, maintaining its historic charm. Its isolation and simplicity make it a must-visit destination for those seeking both natural beauty and cultural significance.

3 – Raudasandur Church

Rauðasandur Church is located near the stunning Rauðasandur Beach in the Westfjords. Visitors must navigate an unsealed road with several switchbacks to reach this remote black church, but the journey is well worth it. The vast beach, with its unique reddish sand, and the tranquil setting of the church offer a serene experience.

4 – Hólar Cathedral (Hólakirkja)

Hólar, in northern Iceland, has been a significant ecclesiastical site since the 11th century. The current cathedral, constructed in 1763 from red stones sourced from the nearby mountain, is notable for its unique architecture. It is the only church in Iceland with a free-standing bell tower. Hólar was once a bishop’s seat and a centre for education, making it historically significant. Visitors can explore the cathedral and learn about its rich past, including its role in Iceland’s religious and educational history.

5 – Akureyrarkirkja

Perched atop a hill overlooking Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city, Akureyrarkirkja is a Lutheran church consecrated in 1940. Designed by the renowned architect Guðjón Samúelsson, who also designed Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavík, the church features a distinctive design with twin towers and a central stairway leading up the hill from the town centre. The church’s interior boasts beautiful stained glass windows and a notable altarpiece, providing visitors with both spiritual and aesthetic experiences.

6 – Vik i Myrdal Church

This charming church sits atop a hill overlooking the town of Vík and its famous black basalt beach. The church is often depicted in photographs with the dramatic Reynisdrangar sea stacks in the background. While the church itself is simple in design, its location offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. A historical cemetery behind the church adds to its quaint charm. Visitors should note that the church is surrounded by a bitumen car park, which detracts from its otherwise picturesque setting.

7 – Reyniskirkja Church

Blink and you may just miss this beautiful church. Located just outside of Vík, Reyniskirkja is a small, weather-worn church that can easily be missed if you’re not looking for it. As you turn off the main Ring Road towards the Black Beach, the church appears on the left side of the road. A nearby car park allows visitors to stop and explore the church and its surrounding cemetery. The church’s rustic appearance and serene location make it a worthwhile stop for those interested in Iceland’s rural ecclesiastical architecture.

8 – Keldur Church (and turf houses)

Keldur is more renowned for its historic and UNESCO-listed turf houses than for its church, making it an excellent opportunity to visit both. The church and turf houses are within the same vicinity, offering a glimpse into traditional Icelandic architecture and rural life. While the church and houses are not open year-round, visitors can still wander the cemetery grounds and appreciate the site’s historical significance. Keldur is considered one of Iceland’s oldest surviving turf house complexes, providing insight into the country’s architectural heritage.

9 – Skalholt Church

Standing tall in an open field, Skálholt Cathedral is a site of immense historical importance. Skálholt was one of Iceland’s two episcopal sees (the area of the bishop’s ecclesiastical jurisdiction) and served as a cultural and educational centre for over 700 years. The current cathedral, completed in the 20th century, is built on the site of several previous churches. Visitors can explore a 13th-century tunnel leading to a crypt and admire the stunning stained-glass windows that adorn the church. A turf house outside adds to the site’s history.

10 – Hallgrimskirkja Church

This stunning church, designed in 1937 by the late Guðjón Samúelsson, began construction in 1945. When visiting Reykjavík, you will see that the church is visible from many parts of the city, and you can take a lift above the clock in the tower for stunning views of the city. The church is also famous for its stunning pipe organ, which stands 15 meters tall.

You can find out more details about Hallgrimskirkja Church from the church Hallgrinmskirkja website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Iceland’s churches open to the public?

Most churches are open during the day, especially in the summer months. Smaller rural churches may be locked, but you can still enjoy the outside architecture and views. Some churches (like Hallgrímskirkja and Skálholt) are almost always open to visitors.

Do you need to dress a certain way to visit churches?

You don’t need to dress formally, but it’s respectful to dress modestly when entering a church. If you’re just visiting the outside, everyday clothes are fine.

Is there an entrance fee to visit any of the churches?

Most churches are free to visit. A few, like Hallgrímskirkja, may charge a small fee to go up the tower.

Can you take photos inside the churches?

Yes, usually. Just ensure you’re respectful, especially if a service or ceremony occurs. Avoid using flash inside.

Are the roads to all churches easy to drive?

Most are along the Ring Road or nearby, but a few (like Rauðasandur Church) require driving on gravel roads with switchbacks. Always check road conditions, especially in the Westfjords or during winter months.

Final Thoughts

Our trip around Iceland was filled with awe-inspiring natural wonders, but the churches we visited gave our journey something extra – moments of quiet, beauty, and connection to the people who live in this incredible country. Each church, big or small, famous or hidden, added a special memory to our trip.

Don’t rush past these buildings if you’re thinking about an Iceland road trip. Pull over. Take a look. Walk around the grounds. Peek inside if the door’s open. These churches might just surprise you.

And who knows — they might end up being some of your favourite places in Iceland, too.

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About: Lisa Bundesen

Hi, I’m Lisa, a 50+ retired chartered accountant. My husband, Darren, and I explore the world every opportunity we get. Staying fit is key to our adventures, from hiking the Inca Trail to scuba diving. We call Australia home but travel overseas often, always eager to discover new cultures, bustling cities, cuisines, nature and wildlife.

We would love you to join us on our journeys and hope that our adventures give you encouragement to explore this amazing world.

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