capital-region · Iceland
Skólavörðustígur — Rainbow Street to Hallgrímskirkja
About Skólavörðustígur — Rainbow Street to Hallgrímskirkja
Skólavörðustígur is the most photographed street in Iceland — the steep hill painted in rainbow colours that rises from Laugavegur shopping street directly to Hallgrímskirkja church. Lined with galleries, boutiques, cafés and souvenir shops, this is the symbolic heart of downtown Reykjavík where tourists and locals meet on the same colourful pavement.
History & Background
The street name dates from the era when a Latin school stood on the hill where Hallgrímskirkja now rises. A stone cairn (vörður) marked the route, and the street was known as the 'School Cairn Road'. When Hallgrímskirkja was built 1945–1986, Skólavörðustígur became the ceremonial approach to Iceland's most iconic building. The rainbow paint was added in 2015 during Reykjavík Pride.
Did You Know?
- ✔500m long, 12% gradient hill
- ✔Rainbow crosswalk painted 2015, now permanent
- ✔Leads directly from Laugavegur to Hallgrímskirkja
- ✔Home to i8 Gallery and 66°North flagship store
- ✔Most photographed street in Iceland
Tours Near Skólavörðustígur — Rainbow Street to Hallgrímskirkja
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
Why Visit
Lined with galleries, boutiques, cafés and souvenir shops, this is the symbolic heart of downtown Reykjavík where tourists and locals meet on the same colourful pavement.
Did You Know?
The rainbow crosswalk was supposed to be temporary but was so beloved that the city made it permanent — and it's now repainted every spring to keep the colours bright.
The Rainbow to Heaven
Locals joke that the rainbow street is the road to heaven — and heaven is Hallgrímskirkja at the top, where you can see all of Iceland spread out before you.
📖 Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Hidden Gems Nearby
i8 Gallery
Iceland's leading contemporary art gallery is halfway up the hill on the right — free entry and always worth a look.
The View Down
Everyone photographs looking up to the church. Turn around halfway up and photograph looking down over the colourful rooftops — it's just as beautiful.
Practical Information
Best Time
Mornings before crowds arrive
Duration
15–30 min walk + stops
Access
From Laugavegur junction to Hallgrímstorg
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it very steep?▾
Yes — about 12% gradient. Take your time, stop at the galleries, and enjoy the climb.
Best time to photograph the rainbow?▾
Midday for the most intense colours. Early morning or late evening for softer light and fewer people.
