Skolavordustigur is a central pedestrian street in Reykjavik known for its rainbow-painted path that leads straight toward Hallgrimskirkja Church. It's a popular site on Reykjavik walking tours that sits between Laugavegur Street and the church. It's easy to reach from anywhere in downtown Reykjavik.
The painted stretch adds a recognizable landmark to the upper part of the street, while the rest of Skolavordustigur features cafes, small boutiques, and local design stores. Its steady foot traffic, open view of Hallgrimskirkja Church, and easy walkability make it one of the most visited streets in the city.
This part of the city connects easily with several popular areas in Reykjavik, so it fits naturally into most visits. It also pairs well with many things to do in Reykjavik, since it sits close to museums, galleries, and nearby attractions.
Its central location near several Reykjavik accommodations gives visitors a convenient place to explore on foot. Continue reading to see how to plan a smooth and enjoyable visit along this colorful street.
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Key Takeaways
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Rainbow Street is the lower part of Skolavordustigur, close to Laugavegur Street, and easy to reach on foot.
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Only the rainbow-painted section is pedestrian. The rest of Skolavordustigur is accessible by car with paid street parking and a parking garage nearby.
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Early morning offers the best light and the fewest crowds for photos of the Rainbow Street and Hallgrimskirkja.
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Shops, cafes, restaurants, and street art are located along the short uphill walk toward Hallgrimskirkja.
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Cultural stops such as Hegningarhusid, the White Ribbon Hospital, the Leif Eriksson Monument, and Hallgrimskirkja are all on the same route.
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Attractions like the Icelandic Punk Museum, the National Theatre, the House of Collections, and the Einar Jonsson Museum are within a five-minute walk.
Where Is Rainbow Street Located in Reykjavik
Rainbow Street is located on Skolavordustigur, 101 Reykjavik, on the lower end of the street near Laugavegur, the main shopping street in the city center. The rainbow-painted segment appears at this downtown end and covers a short stretch of the street before Skolavordustigur continues uphill toward Hallgrimskirkja.
How To Get to Skolavordustigur
Skolavordustigur sits in the center of Reykjavik, so you can reach it quickly on foot, by car, or by bus. The rainbow-painted segment is at the lower end of the street near Laugavegur, which makes access simple from most parts of downtown.
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Getting there on foot: You can reach the rainbow-painted area from Laugavegur in about one to two minutes, as it sits just off the main shopping street. If you start at Hallgrimskirkja, walk downhill for roughly 5 minutes until you reach the lower end of Skolavordustigur.
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Getting there by car: If you rent a car, follow the downtown road toward Laugavegur and approach from the lower end of Skolavordustigur. You cannot drive onto the rainbow-painted section, but the rest of Skolavordustigur is accessible by car. The surrounding streets have paid parking zones, and the Tradarkot Parking Garage on Hverfisgata Street is close by.
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Getting there by bus: You can reach Skolavordustigur easily using Straeto, Reykjavik’s public bus system. Several routes pass through the downtown area and stop within a short walk of the street.
Why Is Skolavordustigur Painted in Rainbow Colors
The rainbow section on Skolavordustigur began as a temporary installation for Reykjavik Pride, created to highlight the city’s support for the LGBTQ+ community in Iceland. Its popularity grew quickly, and the painted stretch became a well-known landmark for locals and visitors.
The design was later made permanent, turning this short part of the street into a symbol of inclusivity and a clear visual marker near Hallgrimskirkja. Today, the rainbow serves as both a cultural statement and one of the most recognizable attractions in Reykjavik.
Best Photo Spot on Rainbow Street
One of the best photo spots on Rainbow Street is the view of Hallgrimskirkja with the painted section in the foreground. The ideal position is at the lower end of Skolavordustigur, where you can frame the full stretch of color leading toward the church.
Early morning offers the best conditions if you want fewer people in the frame and softer light on the buildings. Late afternoon can add warm tones, but it is usually more crowded, so you may need to wait to capture the shot.
Map of Skolavordustigur (Rainbow Street)
Use this map to find the rainbow-painted section of Skolavordustigur and everything mentioned in this guide, including cafes, restaurants, shops, street art locations, cultural landmarks, and nearby attractions. The map helps you plan your route easily and works well for anyone searching for a Rainbow Street Reykjavik map or a clear Skolavordustigur map.
Cultural Landmarks Along Skolavordustigur
Walking up Skolavordustigur from Rainbow Street gives you a simple route through several cultural and historical landmarks in Iceland. These stops appear naturally as you follow the street toward Hallgrimskirkja, so you can see each one without leaving the main path.
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Hegningarhusid: Located near the lower end of the street, this former 19th-century city prison is one of the older stone buildings in Downtown Reykjavik. It is not open to visitors, but you can view the exterior from the sidewalk as you begin your walk uphill.
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Sjukrahus Hvitabandsins (White Ribbon Hospital): Farther along the street, you will see this historic building, once operated by the Icelandic Women’s Christian Temperance Union. The exterior reflects early 20th-century community history in the area.
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Skolavorduholt: As the slope increases, you are stepping onto the hill that shapes the entire street. The name refers to a cairn, a small pile of stones used as a landmark, that students once built here in the past. The hill forms a natural high point above the surrounding streets.
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Leif Eriksson Monument: Near the top of the walk, the statue stands in the open space in front of Hallgrimskirkja. It was gifted by the United States in 1930 and depicts the Norse explorer Leifur Eiríksson.
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Hallgrimskirkja Church: The walk ends at Hallgrimskirkja, one of the most recognizable examples of Icelandic architecture in Reykjavik. The tower offers panoramic city views if you choose to go inside and use the elevator. Even from the outside, the church and the surrounding square provide a strong finish to the walk.
Attractions Near Skolavordustigur Within a Five-Minute Walk
Skolavordustigur connects directly to several Reykjavik attractions, and many of them are within a short five-minute walk. These nearby spots are easy to reach without planning a separate route, which makes them convenient stops during a visit to this part of Reykjavik.
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Laugavegur Street: The closest major attraction to Rainbow Street. This is the city’s main shopping street, known for some of the top bars and best nightlife in Reykjavik, only one to two minutes away.
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Icelandic Punk Museum: Located near the Laugavegur area, this underground museum is one of the unique museums in Reykjavik and offers a quick look at Iceland’s punk music history. It is about two to three minutes from Rainbow Street.
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Safnahusid (House of Collections): A historic museum building that hosts rotating exhibitions from the National Gallery. It is a short walk from the lower end of Skolavordustigur and is easy to include while exploring the downtown area.
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National Theatre of Iceland: One of Reykjavik’s most important museums, located about five minutes from the lower portion of the street. Its distinctive exterior makes it easy to spot.
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Einar Jonsson Museum: A museum and sculpture garden that sits behind Hallgrimskirkja and gives you a quiet place to explore Icelandic sculpture. It is a well-known stop for anyone interested in art museums in Reykjavik.
Cafes Near Rainbow Street
Skolavordustigur has some of Reykjavik’s inviting coffee spots along Rainbow Street, where you can slow down, warm up, or grab something quick between shops and viewpoints. The street has a mix of cozy interiors, strong espresso options, and easy places to pick up pastries or a light brunch, which makes it a reliable stop for Rainbow Street Reykjavik coffee shops.
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Mokka Kaffi: A long-time Reykjavik favorite known for rich coffee, warm waffles, and a calm, old-school cafe atmosphere.
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Cafe Babalu: A cozy spot with homemade cakes and simple brunch plates, good for an unhurried mid-day break.
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Kaffifelagid: A straightforward espresso stop with reliable coffee and quick takeaway options while exploring the street.
Restaurants Near Rainbow Street
Dining near Rainbow Street includes everything from modern Icelandic dishes to casual comfort food. Skolavordustigur offers a convenient range of Reykjavik restaurants within a short walk, giving you easy options for lunch or dinner during your visit.
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Kol Restaurant: The standout dining choice nearby, known for polished plates, bold flavors, and a more refined atmosphere. Kol Restaurant is a strong pick if you want a memorable dinner.
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Sjavargillid: A good choice for seafood-focused dishes. It is often recommended for visitors searching for seafood restaurants in Reykjavik and wanting something local and refined.
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Salka Valka Eldhus/Kitchen: A relaxed spot serving familiar comfort food at mid-range prices. The menu includes several choices for visitors searching for vegan options in Reykjavik.
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Reykjavik Fish Restaurant: Simple and satisfying fish and chips with quick service and honest portions.
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Krua Thai: A convenient choice for flavorful Thai dishes when you want something fast. It is a reliable option for visitors looking for affordable restaurants in Reykjavik during a casual meal stop.
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101 Reykjavik Street Food: A fast and inexpensive stop for Icelandic street-style meals when you need something quick and filling.
Accommodations Along Skolavordustigur
Staying along Skolavordustigur gives you direct access to Rainbow Street, Hallgrimskirkja, cafes, restaurants, and local shops. The street is central, walkable, and easy to navigate, which makes it a convenient base for exploring Reykjavik.
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Odinn Reykjavik Skolavordustigur Apartments: Its stylish, comfortable units range from studios to multi-bedroom apartments, offering a quiet, private setup just steps from Rainbow Street.
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Skolo Reykjavik Apartments: Modern and well-equipped apartments with kitchenettes and smart layouts. A great option if you prefer contemporary interiors and the flexibility to self-cater.
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Skolavordustigur Apartments: A comfortable apartment-style stay right on the street, offering a practical setup for longer visits. Good for families or travelers who want a home-style environment in a prime walking area.
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Hotel Leifur Eiriksson: A simple, welcoming hotel directly across from Hallgrimskirkja. Rooms are modest, but the location is exceptional, giving you quick access to the church and the upper part of Skolavordustigur.
Icelandic Gift and Souvenir Stores on Skolavordustigur
Skolavordustigur is one of the easiest places to explore some of the best shops in Reykjavik in one stretch. The street has everything from quality crafts and wool items to travel-friendly souvenirs in Iceland.
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Rammagerdin: One of the most recommended gift shops on the street, offering handmade ceramics, wool items, and high-quality Icelandic crafts. Rammagerdin is a strong option if you want something traditional and well-made.
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Reykjavik Boutique (Reykjavik Treats): Small gifts, sweets, and Iceland-themed items.
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Iceland Memories Shop: A quick and simple stop for small souvenirs.
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Rainbow Street Souvenirs: Easy stop for inexpensive keepsakes like magnets and keychains.
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Icemart: A mix of gifts and simple travel items.
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The Viking: Traditional souvenir store with classic Icelandic motifs.
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Arason: Small souvenir shop with assorted Icelandic-themed products.
Icelandic Outdoor Clothing Stores on Skolavordustigur
Skolavordustigur is one of the best places in central Reykjavik to look for warm layers and outdoor clothing designed for Iceland’s weather. The street has several shops focused on comfort, durability, and modern style, which is ideal for shopping in Iceland.
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66°North: One of the standout stores for premium Icelandic clothing. With 66°North, expect high-quality jackets, warm layers, and performance pieces made for real Icelandic conditions.
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The Handknitting Association of Iceland: Authentic lopapeysa sweaters and handmade pieces created by local knitters.
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Mjuk Iceland: Soft, cozy basics and warm pieces with a simple, comfortable feel.
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Hekla Outdoor: Practical, everyday outdoor wear that works well for both city use and light adventures.
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Wool Shop: Warm Icelandic wool accessories and knitwear.
Art Galleries on Skolavordustigur
If you enjoy artwork or photography, Skolavordustigur has several small studios that are easy to browse as you walk. Many of the pieces highlight Icelandic landscapes, handmade ceramics, and locally produced art.
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Iurie Fine Art: The most notable art stop on the street, Iurie Fine Art showcases Iurie Belegurschi’s striking landscape photography of Iceland.
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Listvinahusid: Traditional craft studio offering handmade ceramics with a long history in Reykjavik.
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Kaolin Keramik Galleri: Handmade ceramics created by Icelandic ceramicists.
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Bjarni Sigurðsson Gallery: Original photographic prints centered on Icelandic nature.
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Gallery Grasteinn: Small gallery with mixed media works by local artists.
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Inga Elín Galleri: Unique ceramic pieces and handmade art.
Icelandic Jewelry and Local Design Shops on Skolavordustigur
Skolavordustigur has several design-forward studios and jewelry shops that focus on clean, modern Icelandic style. These shops work well for thoughtful gifts or distinctive pieces you won’t find elsewhere.
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Anna María Design: Elegant jewelry known for clean lines and understated Icelandic design.
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Guðlaugur A. Magnússon: Classic silverwork with a long-standing reputation in Iceland.
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Orrifinn: Sculptural, design-focused jewelry with a creative approach.
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Ofeigur: Artistic, bold, sculptural pieces.
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Magnolia House: A mix of jewelry, home decor, and curated design items.
Street Art Along Skolavordustigur
Skolavordustigur features a series of Reykjavik street art that are easy to spot as you walk between Rainbow Street and Hallgrimskirkja. Each artwork sits on the exterior wall of a specific building, and the numbers below refer to the street addresses where the murals are located. This helps you find each piece naturally as you move uphill along the street.
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Skolavordustigur 9: Two murals placed side by side, created by Karl Kristján Youze and Julia Mai Linnea Maria, bringing bright detail to the lower part of the street.
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Skolavordustigur 12: A mural by Kristín Morthens, visible directly from the sidewalk.
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Skolavordustigur 13: A distinctive work by Sara Riel on the street-facing wall.
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Skolavordustigur 23: Two artworks on the same building, one by Hafdís Helgadóttir and another by Stefán Óli (Mottan).
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Skolavordustigur 22: A piece byÖrn Tönsberg (Selur) on the front wall near the upper section of the street.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rainbow Street
Rainbow Street is one of the most visited spots in central Reykjavik, and travelers often ask about its location, accessibility, and parking options. These quick answers help you plan your visit with practical details that cover the most common Rainbow Street Iceland questions.
Is Rainbow Street free to visit?
Yes, Rainbow Street is completely free to visit. It is a public pedestrian area with open access at all hours, and you can walk the painted section, take photos, and browse nearby shops without any charge. You do not need a ticket or booking to enter the area.
Can you drive on Skolavordustigur?
You cannot drive on the rainbow-painted section, but the rest of Skolavordustigur is accessible by car. The painted part is pedestrian-only, so you must park nearby and walk a short distance. Paid street parking and the Tradarkot Parking Garage are the closest options.
How long is Rainbow Street in Reykjavik?
The rainbow-painted section of Skolavordustigur is short and easy to walk in a few minutes. It covers only the lower part of the street near Laugavegur, although the full length of Skolavordustigur continues uphill to Hallgrimskirkja.
Is there free parking near Rainbow Street?
There is no free parking directly beside Rainbow Street. The surrounding streets follow paid parking zones, and the Tradarkot Parking Garage is the closest structured option. Visitors must pay for street parking or use the garage before walking to the painted section.
Is Rainbow Street toddler-friendly?
Yes, Rainbow Street is toddler-friendly. The painted section is fully pedestrian and flat, making it safe for families visiting Iceland with kids. Strollers move easily along the smooth path, and the area is small enough to explore without long walks or heavy traffic nearby.
Is Rainbow Street wheelchair accessible?
The rainbow-painted area is flat, paved, and simple to navigate with a wheelchair. The slope increases only when continuing uphill toward Hallgrimskirkja. Visitors exploring Iceland in a wheelchair can move through the painted section comfortably.
Add Skolavordustigur to Your Reykjavik Itinerary
Skolavordustigur fits easily into a broader day of sightseeing in Reykjavik, since the street sits between Laugavegur Street and Hallgrimskirkja Church. Its short, walkable layout lets you see colorful artwork, cafes, shops, and cultural stops without leaving the city center.
This area also feels like one of the hidden gems in Reykjavik, especially once you explore the murals, the smaller galleries, and the quiet views that appear along the uphill walk. The painted section adds a bright highlight, and the route stays simple to enjoy for visitors of any pace.
Once you finish the walk, it is easy to continue with other things to do near Reykjavik, including nearby museums, viewpoints, and food stops around downtown. Skolavordustigur works well as a starting point or as a relaxing break between activities, giving you a colorful and accessible way to experience the heart of the city.
