Free self-guided walk · Reykjavik

From Hallgrímskirkja to the Old Harbour

A free self-guided walk through central Reykjavik, from Hallgrímskirkja down the rainbow street to the pond, Harpa and the Sun Voyager.

Distance
3.7 km
Walking time
49 min
Allow
About 2.5 hours with stops
Stops
6

Open the route in Google MapsReykjavik city guide

About this walk

This walk covers the whole of central Reykjavik, from its landmark church to the harbour.

Dress for wind and rain, whatever the season.

  • Terrain: Paved, downhill from the church, then flat along the seafront.
  • Best time: Any time in summer; in winter, around midday for the best light.

Route map

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Route and stop positions © OpenStreetMap contributors. North is up.

The stops

  1. Hallgrímskirkja

    Start at the great concrete church.

  2. Skólavörðustígur

    Walk down the street painted with a rainbow.

  3. Tjörnin

    The town pond by City Hall.

  4. Old Harbour

    Whale-watching boats and fish restaurants.

  5. Harpa

    The glass concert hall on the water.

  6. Sun Voyager

    Finish at the steel ship sculpture on the shore.

Tips

  • Hallgrímskirkja's tower costs a small fee.
  • Wear waterproofs and layers.
  • Pavements can be icy in winter.

Prefer a guide?

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Sources and review date

This walk was last reviewed on 2026-10-28. Distance and walking time come from OpenStreetMap's walking router and don't include time at stops. Opening hours and access change; please check before you go.