Seltjarnarnes

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Hallgrimskirkja
No. 5 of Night Attractions in Iceland

Hallgrimskirkja

7.1
4.6/5
198 reviews
Hallgrimskirkja sits on a hill in the capital of Iceland and is named after the 17th-century Icelandic poet and clergyman Hallgrímur Pétursson. The church was designed by Icelandic architect Guðjón Samúelsson, with a design inspired by the natural forms of Iceland's basalt columns, featuring hexagonal pillars reaching upward. The tapering wings on both sides of the tower resemble a giant pipe organ standing on the city skyline when viewed from a distance. Construction began in 1945 and was completed in 1986, spanning over 40 years. The tower is approx. 73m high and is a prominent landmark on the Reykjavik skyline. Visitors can take an elevator to the observation deck at the top of the tower to overlook the city's colorful rooftops and the bay and mountains in the distance. The interior of the church is towering and minimalist, with a large pipe organ featuring over 5,000 pipes spanning above the entrance. It is one of the largest pipe organs in Iceland, making the church an important music venue in Reykjavik that regularly hosts organ concerts.Reykjavik · 4.1 km from Seltjarnarnes
Lake Tjornin
No. 9 of Best Things to Do in Reykjavik

Lake Tjornin

6
4.4/5
50 reviews
Lake Tjorninis a shallow lake in the center of Reykjavik. Its Icelandic name literally means the pond, and many people simply call it the duck pond. Whooper swans, greylag geese, eider ducks, mallards, and various types of seagulls gather on the lake year-round. The return of the Arctic terns every summer is seen by locals as a signal that summer has arrived. Feeding the birds by the lake is a long-standing tradition, and because so much bread is tossed in, the lake has even earned the nickname bread soup. In winter, the lake surface usually freezes solid, and locals still walk or skate on the ice. Only the corner of the lake near the City Hall, where geothermal warm water is injected, remains unfrozen. The overwintering waterfowl gather in this area, creating a particularly lively scene on the lake in the depths of winter.Reykjavik · 3.4 km from Seltjarnarnes
Sun Voyager
No. 11 of Best Things to Do in Reykjavik

Sun Voyager

5.6
4.6/5
53 reviews
Sun Voyagerstands along the seaside promenade north of downtown Reykjavik and is one of the capital's most recognizable city sculptures. Created by Icelandic sculptor Jón Gunnar Árnason and unveiled in 1990, it is cast in stainless steel to resemble the skeletal outline of a ship setting sail, standing on a circular granite base. While often mistaken for a Viking longship at first glance, the artist's original intention was for it to be a dream boat dedicated to the sun, embodying the promise of undiscovered shores, as well as dreams of hope, progress, and freedom. The sculpture faces the sea, with Mount Esja visible across the bay. On clear days, the metal hull reflects a cool luster, and the soft light around sunrise and sunset makes it a popular photo spot along the seaside promenade.Reykjavik · 4.1 km from Seltjarnarnes
Reykjavík City Hall
No. 14 of Best Things to Do in Reykjavik

Reykjavík City Hall

4.7
4.5/5
30 reviews
The Parliament House of Iceland is located in downtown Reykjavik. Built between 1880–1881, this dark gray basalt structure features a simple and solemn exterior and stands as one of Reykjavik's oldest buildings. This building embodies the historical legacy of the Icelandic parliament—an institution first established in 930 AD on the plains of Thingvellir, making it one of the longest-running parliamentary institutions in the world. It relocated to Reykjavik in 1845 and moved into this building in 1881. The Parliament House faces Tjörnin in downtown Reykjavik and is surrounded by cultural buildings and parkland, making it a central location for experiencing Iceland's democratic history.Reykjavik · 3.2 km from Seltjarnarnes
Founding of Parliament

Founding of Parliament

4
3.0/5
20 reviews
In 930 AD, an open-air parliament was established on the Thingvellir plain, marking the existence of Iceland as an independent country. This is the very oldest parliament in the world. Until 1799, it was the regular meeting place. The former Congress site is actually an empty flat land next to a long and wide fault, which is the junction of the Eurasian and American plates. Standing on the rocks of the Eurasian plate and overlooking the distance, there is a vast plain opposite, with the curved Parliament Lake in the middle, which is the largest natural lake in Iceland. Amid the drifting snowflakes and the faint haze, Capitol Lake appears and disappears from time to time, showing a bit of tranquility and mystery. If it is in summer, the scenery here will be clearer, the green grass, the curved water, and the flocks of birds are very beautiful.Reykjavik · 3.3 km from Seltjarnarnes
Route 1
No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Western Region

Route 1

6.2
4.8/5
57 reviews
Route 1is Iceland's national main road, also known as the Ring Road because it circles the entire island. Completed in 1974, it has a total length of over 1,300 km and connects major towns such as the capital, Reykjavik, and the Capital of the North, Akureyri. It also connects most natural scenic spots, excluding the Westfjords and Snæfellsnes, making it a classic route for a self-drive tour around the island. Most sections of this road are two-way paved roads with good road conditions. Summer days are long, making it suitable for first-time visitors to plan an itinerary of about one week around the island. In winter, there is a chance to encounter the aurora along the way, but be aware of potential temporary road closures due to icy and snowy weather.Olfus · 26.3 km from Seltjarnarnes
Cathedral of Christ the King

Cathedral of Christ the King

2.9
3.0/5
13 reviews
Landau Taos Cathedral was designed and built in 1929 by the well-known Icelandic architect GuðjónSamúelsson. The church is adjacent to the embassy district of Reykjavik, and the consulates of France, Belgium and the United States are nearby. The church is a Catholic church, and the treasure in the church is the towering statue of Jesus on the altar, which is made of cedar and designed and made by Barcelona-based artist Campanya. There is a bust outside the church, erected in memory of Bishop Meulenberg, who led the construction of the church.Reykjavik · 2.9 km from Seltjarnarnes
Fagradalsfjall Volcano

Fagradalsfjall Volcano

5.2
5.0/5
2 reviews
Fagradalsfjall Volcanois located between the Svartsengi and Krýsuvík volcanic systems. Formed under glaciers during the last glacial period, it is a table mountain with a flat top, and its name means "mountain of the beautiful valley" in Icelandic. In March 2021, a fissure opened in the Geldingadalir valley, and magma erupted onto the surface, continuing for about half a year. This ended the peninsula's approximately 800-year dormancy and marked the beginning of a new period of volcanic activity. Subsequently, eruptions occurred at Meradalir in 2022 and Litli-Hrútur in 2023, with surging lava fountains attracting tens of thousands of people who hiked specifically to witness them.Grindavik · 32.2 km from Seltjarnarnes
Thingvellir National Park
No. 6 of Night Attractions in Iceland

Thingvellir National Park

6.4
4.9/5
124 reviews
Thingvellir National Park National Park is located approximately 45 km east of Reykjavik and is a key landmark of both historical and geological significance in Iceland. In 930 AD, Iceland's first national parliament was established here. It is one of the longest-running parliamentary institutions known in the world, and today it remains a venue for important national celebrations for Icelanders. The park is situated at the junction of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. The great rift clearly displays the boundary between the two continental plates, allowing visitors to intuitively experience the landscape formed by crustal rifting. In 2004, Thingvellir National Park was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list for its dual historical and geological value. Additionally, it is also widely known among fans as a filming location for the American TV series "Game of Thrones".Blaskogabyggd · 47.1 km from Seltjarnarnes
Diamond Beach
No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Vatnajökull National Park

Diamond Beach

7.9
4.9/5
17 reviews
Diamond Beach is located in southeastern Iceland, right next to the Glacier lagoon. The ice blocks in the Glacier lagoon originate from the Vatnajökull glacier. After breaking off, they drift into the Glacier lagoon and are then washed onto the black sand beach by the tide, forming ice blocks of various sizes and shapes. Some are as clear and transparent as glass, some are milky white, and others display a deep blue color due to long-term compression of the ice layers. Under the light, these ice blocks look like scattered diamonds, which is how Diamond Beach got its name. The strong contrast between the black volcanic sand and the colorful ice blocks creates a visually striking view, and because the ice blocks constantly washing ashore vary in shape, every visit offers a different experience. Occasionally, you can see harbor seals climbing onto the ice blocks to rest, adding vitality to this magnificent glacial landscape.Iceland · Hornafjordur

Experiences you can't miss in Seltjarnarnes

Featured Cultural experiences in Seltjarnarnes

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Reykjavík City Card
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4.6/5
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Saga Museum: Entry Ticket
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3.0/5
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Reykjavik, Iceland + National Museum of Iceland + Aurora Reykjavík - The Northern Lights Center Private Chartered Tour
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National Museum of Iceland + Kerid Crater + Sun Voyager + Lake Tjornin Private Charter Day Tour
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1-day tour to Snaefellsnes, Budir Church and Kirkjufell
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Duration: 5.1 hrs
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Reykjavík Audio Tour: Echoes of Vikings, Art, and Unexpected Wonders
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Whales of Iceland: Entry Ticket
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Featured Food & drink in Seltjarnarnes

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Iceland in miniature - Snaefellsnes peninsula | Kirkjufell + Ytri Tunga beach + Arnarstapi + farm lunch
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Laugarvatn Fontana: Geothermal Bread-Baking Experience
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4.9/5
· 40 reviews
Duration: 30 mins
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Reykjavik: The Icelandic Sweet Tooth Tour
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5.0/5
· 1 review
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Reykjavik: Food Tour by locals
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5.0/5
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Reykjavik: Food Tour - Eat, Drink & Explore with Locals
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5.0/5
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Duration: 4 hrs
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Featured Spa & wellness in Seltjarnarnes

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Iceland Sky Lagoon experience | includes admission ticket + pickup and drop-off | multiple time slots optional
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4.7/5
· 3 reviews· 31 booked
Duration: 2 hrs
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Iceland Golden Circle Grand Tour + Blue Lagoon 1-day tour|Comfortable minibus city transfer|Optional admission tickets
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4.3/5
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Duration: 11 hrs
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Iceland Golden Circle + Crater Lake + Blue Lagoon 1-day tour with admission ticket/minibus transfer
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5.0/5
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Iceland Fagradalsfjall Volcano hiking + Blue Lagoon 1-day tour: Includes hot spring admission ticket + city area transfer
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5.0/5
· 2 reviews· 32 booked
Duration: 7 hrs
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Fontana Geothermal Baths - Classic Entry Ticket
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5.0/5
· 7 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
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Blue Lagoon: Premium Admission with Drink, Mud Mask, Towel & Bathrobe
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From Reykjavik: Blue Lagoon Comfort admission with transfers
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4.6/5
· 31 reviews
Duration: 5 hrs
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Featured Outdoor experiences in Seltjarnarnes

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Iceland Golden Circle one-day tour|Contains crater lake|Northern Lights Night Tour can be added
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4.5/5
· 24 reviews· 606 booked
Duration: 7.1 hrs
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1-day tour of Iceland's golden circle grand route + Kerid crater + Tiffany blue waterfall | Chinese and English optional
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Northern lights night tour in Reykjavik, Iceland | Free retry if no aurora sighting
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3.8/5
· 4 reviews· 90 booked
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Iceland Snæfellsnes Peninsula + Kirkjufell day tour|Comfortable minibus city transfer|Chinese-speaking group (Optional)
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Duration: 9.8 hrs
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Free things to do in Seltjarnarnes

What travelers say about Seltjarnarnes

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YoYo_0T9A3B0LOctober 1, 2025
5.0
Hallgrímskirkja, a landmark building with Icelandic characteristics, is named after the renowned Icelandic writer Hallgrím Pietersson. Its unique structure fully demonstrates Icelanders' unique insights and pursuit of architectural art.

Hallgrimskirkja

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徐徐霞客RrJuly 11, 2022
5.0
Although the Icelandic Thorninghu Lake is not the largest lake in the area, it is a very famous lake and a favorite place for locals to visit. Because of its geographical location, it is relatively close to the city, so it is very convenient for people to come here.

Lake Tjornin

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竞波December 18, 2020
5.0
This is a sculpture on the waterfront of Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland. It is said to represent a pirate ship and commemorate the pioneering spirit of Iceland's ancestors. The design of the ship sculpture is indeed unique and abstract, but it is not difficult to understand.

Sun Voyager

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DEAR张小球March 1, 2020
5.0
The City Hall is also a landmark building in the area. It is only two or three stories high and has a very unique shape. There are not many tourists, but we stayed there for one night before going to the Golden Circle, so we had the opportunity to walk around.

Reykjavík City Hall

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小小呆60September 24, 2019
3.0
The former site of the Parliament Building was built in the 1880s by Denmark. It is a two-story building with a dark brown brick structure and a small garden in front and back. It is still very beautiful.

Founding of Parliament

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东张西望望东西March 28, 2020
5.0
Highway 1 is a must-go road to Iceland. The road is mostly covered with grasslands. The scenery is not special, but it is very interesting to see such a vibrant scene at the northern end of the earth.

Route 1

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zhulei831230September 23, 2019
3.0
This is one of the two cathedrals in Iceland. The church is composed of two parts and looks quite tall. It is located in an open space in the embassy district. There are not many tourists and it is quite quiet.

Cathedral of Christ the King

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Marianna86June 13, 2023
5.0
Fagradalsfjall volcano erupted in 2021, creating this incredibile lava field in the Reykjanes peninsula, in the South western side of Iceland. There is a short hike to this incredibile site, however, it is wiser to go there with a guide, as accidents related to gases and heat might occur. The landscape is absolutely breathtaking, overwordly.

Fagradalsfjall Volcano

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Afroza RAugust 21, 2026
5.0
Thingvellir National Park is a spectacular destination where Iceland’s dramatic nature and fascinating history come together. The park features rugged landscapes, clear waters, lava fields, and impressive geological formations created by the movement of tectonic plates. I loved walking through the peaceful surroundings and enjoying the breathtaking views of mountains and valleys. The atmosphere feels incredibly fresh and open, making it a wonderful place to slow down and appreciate Iceland’s natural beauty. Thingvellir is also historically significant, adding another layer of interest to the visit. With its unique geology, scenic trails, and peaceful atmosphere, this national park is an unforgettable experience and definitely deserves a place on any Iceland itinerary.

Thingvellir National Park

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M39***74September 23, 2025
5.0
A Natural Wonder and a Visual Feast Diamond Beach, located on the shores of Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon on Iceland's south coast, is a masterpiece sculpted by glaciers and waves. The dark volcanic sands are strewn with millennia-old glacial fragments. When sunlight filters through the ice crystals, the beach resembles velvet strewn with diamonds. The clash of blue and white ice crystals against the black sand creates a striking visual impact. 1 The ice's form changes rapidly—glowing pink and purple in the morning, dripping with meltwater at noon, and stained orange by dusk, each moment a dynamic work of art created by nature. 12 Photography and Adventure Paradise This area is hailed as an unparalleled photography destination. Bring a polarizing filter to capture the dazzling light reflected from the ice, as the softer light at dusk creates more vivid images. 34 Visitors can observe the internal patterns of the ice up close, and occasionally encounter seals or puffins, adding to the wildness. 35 However, be wary of the danger of sudden waves sweeping away ice. Maintain a safe distance and avoid climbing. 6 Season and Safety Tips Summer (June-August) is prime season for visiting, with abundant ice and vibrant wildlife. ‌35 In winter, you might witness the spectacular dance of the aurora borealis and ice diamonds. ‌7 While the scenery is breathtaking, please wear non-slip shoes and gloves and monitor the tides. ‌6 Summary‌ Diamond Beach epitomizes Iceland's natural beauty, where the millennia-old story of glaciers is frozen into shimmering diamonds. It reminds us that the ultimate romance is born from the eternal dialogue between ice and fire. ‌7

Diamond Beach

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Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Seltjarnarnes?

Don't miss these attractions in Seltjarnarnes: Hallgrimskirkja, Lake Tjornin, and Sun Voyager. If you like Cultural experiences, try Reykjavík City Card. If you enjoy Food & drink, try Iceland in miniature - Snaefellsnes peninsula | Kirkjufell + Ytri Tunga beach + Arnarstapi + farm lunch.

You can give Iceland in miniature - Snaefellsnes peninsula | Kirkjufell + Ytri Tunga beach + Arnarstapi + farm lunch and Dill Restaurant in Reykjavik, Iceland - Restaurant Reservation Service a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

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