Top 16 Most Famous Landmarks in Iceland

Top 11 Landmarks in Iceland

Along with the natural beauty of Iceland, stop by these interesting man-made attractions outside the Capital Region! From historic churches and other buildings to interesting art pieces, here are the top Icelandic landmarks to see when exploring the countryside.

11. The Kleifakarl Stone Man

If you're embarking on tours in the Westfjords, you may come across the towering stone man just by road 62, around a 20-minute drive from Patreksfjordur village. The stone man is sometimes called "Kleifakarl" or "Kleifabúi," and he's located on the Kleifaheidi heath, from which he draws his name.

The structure is, technically speaking, the biggest cairn in Iceland, surrounded by empty nature, and contrasts with the surrounding fjords and mountains. But what is he doing here in the empty landscape?

Well, the Kleifakarl Stone Man was built in 1947 by road construction workers having fun after a hard day's work. He stands by the road, greeting passersby with an outstretched hand, and today, he marks a lovely rest stop on top of the Kleifaheidi heath, complete with a picnic bench and beautiful views. Don't forget to say hello when traveling around the Westfjords!

• Learn more about the Two Stone Men in the Westfjords
• Also, plan your trip with the Ultimate Guide to the Westfjords of Iceland!

10. The Eggs of Merry Bay

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Ira Goldstein. No edits made.

The tranquil town of Djupivogur is a lovely stop on any journey through the Eastfjords, where one of the must-stop locations is the Eggs of Merry Bay art installation. Know as "Eggin í Gleðivík" in Icelandic, this interesting artwork showcases 34 eggs of different Icelandic birds that nest in the area, all made from granite.

The artwork was created by Sigurður Guðmundsson and was formally inaugurated in 2009. They line the shore of Gledivik bay, and the walk along the whole row of eggs is around 656 feet (200 meters). You'll see the lovely surrounding mountains on the way.

To get to the Eggs of Merry Bay artwork, you have to make your way through the industrial harbor of Djupivogur, but if you're in the area, it's worth a stop! Afterward, stop by the Langabud Cultural Center to learn more about the area.

• Discover the Best Places to Visit in East Iceland
• Learn more: Djupivogur Village and the Eggs at Gleðivík Bay

9. Seydisfjardarkirkja Church

The Seydisfjardarkirkja church is located in the charming town of Seydisfjordur in East Iceland and is a notable landmark. It's a symbol of the town, and its soft blue color and traditional style set it apart from the natural landscape. The church is an example of early 20th-century Icelandic architecture, and like many of the other charming buildings in Seydisfjordur, it draws visitors who are interested in the cultural heritage of Iceland.

Seydisfjordur may be the first location you'll see in Iceland if you're arriving by ferry from mainland Europe. If, like most visitors, you're arriving at Keflavik International Airport, you'll have to drive the Ring Road to the Eastfjords. The drive takes between eight and ten hours, depending on whether you travel through South or North Iceland. It's highly recommended to spread your trip over multiple days by staying in great hotels around Iceland or traveling with a rental campervan.

 8. Bárður Snæfellsás Statue

Photo from Regína Hrönn Ragnarsdóttir

When traveling along the Snaefellsnes peninsula, you'll see some stunning landscapes and iconic natural landmarks, such as the Kirkjufell mountain and the Snaefellsjokull glacier. However, you'll also likely spot the towering statue of the mythical guardian Bárður Snæfellsás!

Bárður Snæfellsás is a fascinating figure deeply rooted in Icelandic literary history. According to the Icelandic sagas, he was a half-human and half-troll settler who became entwined with the supernatural, possessing great wisdom and mystical abilities. He's revered as the guardian spirit of the Snaefellsnes peninsula, where he protects and guides its inhabitants.

The statue of Bárður Snæfellsás is 19.6 feet (6 meters) high and was designed by Kjartan Ragnarsson. Since its unveiling in 1978, it has become a significant landmark in the tiny village of Arnarstapi. As visiting Arnarstapi is one of the top things to do on the Snaefellsnes peninsula, make sure to stop by the statue and explore the stunning surrounding nature in the area!

• Learn more about Bárður Snæfellsás - the Mythical Protector of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

7. The Arctic Henge

The Arctic Henge is a notable landmark situated in Raufarhofn, the northernmost village on mainland Iceland. It's known as "Heimskautsgerði" in Icelandic and features a contemporary design that's rooted by Norse mythology.

Work started on this structure in 1996, and it's still under construction. It's envisioned to function as an elaborate sundial designed to harness the unique Arctic light and shadow patterns, drawing inspiration from Norse Eddas and sagas.

It's just over a two-hour detour from the Ring Road, but there's some lovely nature and small villages on the way. Despite its remote location, the site attracts visitors year-round, eager to experience its distinctive architectural and cultural significance amidst the stark beauty of North Iceland. Each season presents a different facet of the Arctic Henge, and it makes for a stunning foreground for the northern lights!

• See more: Vikings and Norse Gods in Iceland
• See also: The Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

6. Vikurkirkja Church

The Vik church, known in Icelandic as "Víkurkirkja," sits atop a cliff overlooking the town of Vik. Constructed in 1934, its simple white exterior and red roof have made it a popular South Coast landmark, as it contrasts beautifully with the view of the town, its black sand beach, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks.

The town of Vik is around a 3-hour drive from Reykjavik. It's a popular end-stop on South Coast tours, especially during summer, as the hillside surrounding the Vik church is beautiful when covered in flowering lupines! The town is also a convenient resting location when traveling along the Ring Road as well because there are some great accommodation options in Vik.

Take the time to stop by the Vikurkirkja church as you travel along Iceland's South Coast to take in the lovely view and the charming church!

• Check out the Ultimate Guide to Iceland's South Coast
• Discover all the Best Restaurants in Vik

5. Bridge Between the Continents

Iceland is famous for its volcanic activity, with plenty of active volcanos, regular eruptions, and vast lava fields around every corner. This is because of Iceland's location on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet. This results in frequent volcanic eruptions as the plates diverge, allowing magma to rise to the surface. The tectonic plates separate an average of 0.7 inches (2 centimeters) per year, shaping Iceland's dynamic landscape over millions of years!

This is what makes the Bridge Between Continents such an interesting landmark. Located on the rugged Reykjanes peninsula, the bridge allows you to quite literally walk between tectonic plates! It's easy to reach with a small rental car as it's around an hour's drive from Reykjavik and 20 minutes from Keflavik Airport. You'll also find that it's a stop on many Reykjanes tours, so it's easy to visit when traveling around the peninsula.

• Discover Iceland's Volcanoes: The Complete Guide
• Also, learn about Volcanic Eruptions in Iceland

4. Budakirkja Church

Iceland is home to many beautiful wooden churches scattered all around the countryside, but one of the more famous ones is the Budakirkja church on the Snaefellsnes peninsula. It's a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Reykjavik and a popular stop on Snaefellsnes tours.

Budakirkja is a historic wooden church dating back to the 19th century, and it's known for its traditional design featuring a striking black color with white windows that contrast with the beautiful surrounding nature. This has made this small church a popular landmark in West Iceland, especially among photographers hoping to capture the beautiful sunset or the magical northern lights!

The whole peninsula is very popular for day trips from Reykjavik, and you can find plenty of great Snaefellsnes accommodations if you want to spend more days discovering the region. You can even stay in the lovely Hotel Budir, just next to Budakirkja church, which offers a relaxing retreat among the Icelandic nature.

 3. Akureyrakirkja Church

Akureyrarkirkja belongs on a list of the most iconic churches in Iceland. It's known for its modernist architecture that towers over the town of Akureyri, and it's a must-visit attraction when traveling around North Iceland.

Completed in 1940, Akureyrakirkja church was designed by renowned architect Guðjón Samúelsson, who also designed the iconic Hallgrimskirkja church in Reykjavik. Both were inspired by the Icelandic landscape, which is reflected in their unique shapes.

This Akureyri church is positioned atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains. During town festivals, locals compete in who is fastest to sprint up steps towards the church! To visit, you'll have to travel to Akureyri, which is best done by car, bus, or with a domestic flight from Reykjavik. You can then pick up a rental car in Akureyri to best explore the region or embark on Akureyri tours.

Akureyrakirkja church is right by the town center, which also features plenty of Akureyri accommodations and other attractions, making it easy to visit during your North Iceland trip.

• Learn about all the best things to do in Akureyri!
• See also: Akureyri, the Capital of North | Culture, History and Activities

2. Solheimasandur Plane Wreck

The DC-3 Plane Wreck in Iceland is a rather unique and haunting landmark that has a place on many visitors' must-see lists. This site is home to the remains of a US Navy DC-3 aircraft that crash-landed on the Solheimasandur black sand beach in 1973. All crew members survived, leaving the wreck behind to blend with the stark, otherworldly landscape of Iceland's South Coast.

Visiting the wreck requires a bit of effort, as it's located about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) from the Ring Road. You will have to hike to the plane following a marked path to ensure the safety of visitors and the preservation of the natural environment. The walk is relatively easy as it's over flat sands, but it takes around 45-50 minutes one way.

Visiting the DC-3 Plane Wreck is especially lovely under the midnight sun or the dancing northern lights during winter. Just make sure to dress warmly!

If you prefer to skip the walk, you can also take the shuttle to the DC-3 plane wreck for a quicker visit. You can even use the time saved to go glacier hiking on the Solheimajokull glacier or visit the nearby Dyrholaeyjarviti lighthouse on the Dyrholaey peninsula, a major attraction in the area!

• Learn about how the Wreck of the Abandoned Plane has become a Landmark in South Iceland

1. The Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon, tucked away in a lava field on the Reykjanes peninsula, is one of Iceland's most beloved spots and a dream destination for visitors from all corners of the globe. This famous geothermal spa is celebrated for its striking blue waters that contrast beautifully against the raw, natural landscape. They're rich in minerals, especially silica mud, which has beneficial effects on the skin. You can also enjoy a variety of luxurious services like massages and facials!

The Blue Lagoon is surrounded by mossy lava fields and rugged volcanic terrain stretching as far as the eye can see. It's the perfect spot for anyone looking to unwind and soak up the natural beauty of Iceland and want to experience some of the country's bathing culture!

As one of the most popular attractions in Iceland, it's important to book your Blue Lagoon entry with very good notice. The spa is around a 40-minute drive from Reykjavik and 30 minutes from Keflavik International Airport, and you can easily find Blue Lagoon tours and airport shuttles that bring you to and from the spa.

• See more: Iceland's Blue Lagoon: The Ultimate Travel Guide
• See also: The Best Hotels Near The Blue Lagoon in Iceland
• Learn about the Swimming Pool Etiquette in Iceland

Top 5 Landmarks in Reykjavik

While Iceland's capital has plenty of great attractions and fun activities, strolling along the city streets is one of the best ways to get a feel for the local atmosphere. Here are the best landmarks in Reykjavik to check out during a visit!

5. Imagine Peace Tower

Photo from the Evening 2 Hour Tour of the Imagine Peace Tower with Transfer from Reykjavik

One of the more unique landmarks in Iceland can be seen from anywhere in the Capital Region, but only during a certain time of year! The Imagine Peace Tower is located on Videy Island off the coast of Reykjavik and is only visible between October 9th and December 8th.

The art piece was conceived by Yoko Ono and is dedicated to the memory of John Lennon as a symbol of peace and hope. The tower consists of a tall, illuminated column of light, reaching upwards into the night sky, adorned with the words "Imagine Peace" in multiple languages at its base. Each year, the tower is lit on his birthday and turned off on the date of his death, a beacon of light as the winter darkness takes over.

To visit the Imagine Peace Tower, you can take a ferry from Reykjavik to Videy Island. The journey typically takes around 5 to 10 minutes each way, depending on weather conditions. While on the island, take the time to explore nature and vibrant birdlife, and stop by the historic Videy House and church, two of the oldest buildings in Iceland. It's part of the Reykjavik City Museums, and access is included in the Reykjavik City Card!

• Check out the Ultimate Guide to Downtown Reykjavik
• See also: Top 10 Museums in Reykjavik

4. Perlan

Perlan is not just an iconic Iceland landmark, but it's one of the most popular places to visit in Reykjavik, thanks to its unique architecture, panoramic views, and interesting exhibitions. Originally built as hot water tanks, it now houses the Wonders of Iceland museum and observation deck showcasing exhibitions on Icelandic natural wonders like volcanos and glaciers, complete with a real ice cave and a mesmerizing 25-minute northern lights show!

The main characteristic of Perlan is the glass dome that offers 360-degree views of Reykjavik and its surroundings. It also features a restaurant, café, and ice-cream parlor to complete any visit.

To reach Perlan, it's easiest to drive or take public transportation, but you can reach it with a 40-minute walk from the city center. If you plan to visit, we recommend that you book your Wonders of Iceland in Perlan tickets ahead of time, as it's a very popular attraction!

3. Harpa Concert Hall

One of the most famous buildings in Reykjavik is the unique Harpa concert hall and conference center. It was completed in 2011 and is the main hub for concerts, conferences, and various performances in Iceland. Designed by Ólafur Elíasson and Henning Larsen Architects, it comprises geometric glass panels, offering an interesting and modern aesthetic inspired by Iceland's natural landscapes. They beautifully reflect the sunset, and in the evening, the front is lit up with fun colors and patterns.

The interior is worth exploring, and for those interested, you can even dine at a restaurant on the ground floor of Harpan. There are also plenty of events throughout the year if you want some unique experiences during your Iceland trip! Harpan is in the main downtown area of Reykjavik, right by the old harbor, and can easily be reached on foot from many main attractions or by public bus. There's also plenty of underground parking where you can leave your Reykjavik rental car, whether you're attending an event or not!

2. The Sun Voyager Sculpture

The Sun Voyager, or "Sólfarið," is a stainless steel sculpture in Reykjavik that symbolizes the sun, exploration, and new beginnings. It was designed by Jón Gunnar Árnason (1931-1989), who drew inspiration from a Drakkar Viking ship for the project, and it's one of the most visited attractions in Iceland's capital!

The Solfarid sculpture is located along Reykjavik's waterfront, just a 10-minute walk from the Harpa Concert Hall. We recommend taking the time to walk along the shoreline as you'll find more interesting attractions, such as small lighthouses and other artwork. You can even reach the Grotta nature reserve if you're up for a long walk with beautiful views over Faxafloi bay and the Esjan mountain. It's an especially beautiful path during the sunset, and if you're lucky, you can even capture the sculpture with the northern lights in the background!

• The Sun Voyager is one of the Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Reykjavik

1. Hallgrimskirkja Church

Without a doubt, if you had to represent Iceland with one landmark, it would be Hallgrimskirkja church in Reykjavik. It's one of the most popular attractions in Iceland and a must-see for any visitor, not that it's hard to see as it towers over the whole downtown Reykjavik!

Designed by architect Guðjón Samúelsson, this Lutheran church's towering facade resembles the hexagonal basalt columns found in Iceland's nature. Construction started in 1945 and wasn't fully completed until 1986. It now stands as the tallest building in Reykjavik and the second tallest in Iceland!

Inside, visitors can admire the minimalist design and the impressive pipe organ, which boasts over 5,000 pipes. You can also go up to the church tower and get fantastic panoramic views of Reykjavik and the surrounding area.

The Hallgrimskirkja church faces the rainbow-painted Skolavordustigur street and many other shopping streets in Reykjavik, which feature interesting stores, galleries, cafés, great restaurants, and plenty of cultural attractions. This iconic Reykjavik landmark is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Iceland, so make sure to include it on your itinerary.

• Enhance your city trip by dining at the Best Restaurants in Reykjavik!
• Also, discover the Best Shops in Reykjavik

Summary of the Top Landmarks in Iceland

Iceland's many landmarks offer a diverse array of experiences for visitors. From the famous Blue Lagoon and majestic Hallgrimskirkja church to artworks and historic buildings around the country, each attraction offers insight into Iceland's cultural and artistic heritage.

As you explore Reykjavik and travel around the Icelandic countryside, let these landmarks be your travel guide. They complement the natural landscapes while celebrating Icelandic culture, and they're sure to make your journey even more memorable!

Which of these locations will you add to your wish list? Are you planning a trip to Iceland? Have you visited any of these landmarks before? Share your thoughts and experience in the comment section below!