Iceland: Tjörnin in Reykjavik

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Old Reykjavík

Top choice in Reykjavík


With a series of sights and interesting historic buildings, the area dubbed Old Reykjavík is the heart of the capital, and the focal point of many historic walking tours. The area is anchored by Tjörnin, the city-centre lake, and sitting between it and Austurvöllur park to the north are the Raðhús (city hall) and Alþingi (parliament).


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Reykjavík attractions

1. Ingibjörg H Bjarnason Statue

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Two things set the statue of Ingibjörg H Bjarnason apart from other monuments in the area: it depicts a historical female figure and it is not made by…

2. Alþingi

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Iceland’s first parliament, the Alþingi, was created at Þingvellir in AD 930. After losing independence in the 13th century, the country gradually won…

3. Ráðhús

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Reykjavík’s waterside Ráðhús is a beautifully positioned postmodern construction of concrete stilts, tinted windows and mossy walls rising from Tjörnin…

4. Dómkirkja

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Iceland’s main cathedral, Dómkirkja is a modest affair, but it played a vital role in the country’s conversion to Lutheranism. The current building (built…

5. Jón Sigurðsson Statue

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The statue in the centre of Austurvöllur park is of Jón Sigurðsson, who led the campaign for Icelandic independence.

6. Austurvöllur

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Grassy Austurvöllur was once part of first-settler Ingólfur Arnarson’s hay fields. Today it’s a favourite spot for cafe lounging or lunchtime picnics and…

7. Skúli Magnússon Statue

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This statue represents Skúli Magnússon, the ‘Father of Reykjavík’, who organised the city's early industry.

8. Settlement Exhibition

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This fascinating archaeological ruin-museum is based around a 10th-century Viking longhouse unearthed here from 2001 to 2002 and other Settlement-Era…