Hljomskalagardur is a public park in downtown Reykjavik known for its beautiful scenery, birdlife, and sculptures.
You can explore Hljomskalagardur park on a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Reykjavik or on a private Reykjavik sightseeing tour where you can tailor the itinerary to your requirements. If you wish to travel at your own pace, you can visit Hljomskalagardur park while staying in Reykjavik during a self-drive tour of Iceland.
Hljomskalagardur park, spelled Hljómskálagarður in Icelandic, is next to the Tjornin Pond, a tranquil spot in the heart of Iceland's capital city that's home to a year-round population of freshwater birds.
What Makes Hljomskalagardur Park Special?
The park's location next to the Tjorinn Pond makes it incredibly picturesque. Several walking paths wind through the lush greenery to give visitors beautiful views of the pond and the surrounding cityscape.
Hljomskalagardur park is also home to The Spell Broken statue by Einar Jonsson and other monuments commemorating important figures in Icelandic history and culture. For example, one sculpture celebrates Jonas Hallgrimsson, a famous Icelandic poet, and another is dedicated to Bertel Thorvaldsen, an Icelandic–Danish sculptor.
You'll also find a statue of the former Icelandic prime minister, Olafur Thors, and Tomas Gudmundsson, a poet from Reykjavik. This statue depicts a man sitting on a bench looking over the lake. It's a great photo opportunity, as you can sit next to the statue and enjoy the view together.
A western section of the park is dedicated to sculptures created by female Icelandic artists, including Gunnfridur Jonsdottir, Nina Saemundsson, and Thorbjorg Palsdottir. It's an excellent destination for art lovers.
Where Is Hljomskalagardur Park?
Hljomskalagardur Park is right in the heart of Reykjavik, just a short walk from some of the city's most popular attractions. It's also close to several popular restaurants and cafes, making it easy to grab a bite while exploring.
You can reach the park on foot from your accommodation if you're staying in Reykjavik. There's limited parking near Hljomskalagardur, so it's recommended that you don't drive into the city if you're planning to visit.
Bikes are available throughout the city, and several bike rental companies are near the park. Additionally, several bus routes stop near the park, including the 1, 3, and 6 buses.
Attractions Near Hljomskalagardur Park
Given the park's central location, it's unsurprising that many famous attractions are nearby.
Harpa Concert Hall
The Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center is just a short walk from the park. This building is known for its striking architecture, which features a unique glass facade reflecting the nearby harbor's colors.
The concert hall is home to several performance spaces, including a main auditorium with space for up to 1600 people. It's the primary concert venue in Reykjavik, and famous bands from around the world play here.
National Museum of Iceland
The National Museum of Iceland is also close to the park. The museum offers visitors a glimpse into Iceland's history and culture, with exhibits that cover everything from Viking settlements to modern Icelandic art.
The museum's collection includes many artifacts and objects, including clothing, tools, and weapons.
Reykjavik Art Museum
The Reykjavik Art Museum is one of the best galleries in Reykjavik and isn't far from Hljomskalagardur Park. Inside, you'll find works by prominent Icelandic and international artists.
The museum's collection includes everything from paintings and sculptures to video installations and performance art. It's a must-see if you're an art lover visiting Reykjavik.
