Designed by Iceland's first state architect Guðjón Samúelsson and constructed between 1944 and 1982, this Lutheran church dominates the city skyline. Its tower references the basalt columns found at Reynisfjara Black Beach and the form of an erupting geyser. In front of the church stands a statue of Leifur Eriksson, a gift from the United States commemorating his voyage to North America around the year 1000.

Located on the harbour front, Harpa is the home of the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra and the Icelandic Opera. The building was designed by Ólafur Elíasson, and its glass dome references Icelandic natural phenomena including the Northern Lights and volcanic activity. Each panel of the facade incorporates colour-lit glass plates capable of producing dynamic light displays on the exterior.

Built atop the city's former hot water storage tanks, Perlan resembles a futuristic dome rising above the surrounding tree line. An observation deck offers views across Reykjavík and beyond, while the Wonders of Iceland exhibition inside provides an accessible overview of the country's natural environment. A restaurant with a revolving floor rounds out the experience for visitors who choose to dine.

This steel sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason stands on the northern coastline of Reykjavík and is one of the city's most photographed landmarks. Its skeletal, ship-like form draws on Viking imagery and runic lines, though the artist described it as a dreamboat and an ode to the sun. The work symbolises the promise of undiscovered territory, hope, progress, and freedom.