Tjörnin

Tjörnin, a.k.a “the Pond,” is one of the most charming spots in downtown Reykjavík. Set right beside Reykjavík City Hall and only a short walk from the Parliament, Austurvöllur square, and the old city centre, it is an easy place to stumble upon while exploring the capital on foot.

Despite being small and shallow, Tjörnin is full of life. Ducks, geese, swans, gulls, and other birds gather around the water throughout the year, making it one of the best places in Reykjavík to enjoy birdlife without leaving the city centre. Locals have long fed the birds here, which is why Tjörnin has sometimes jokingly been called “the world’s largest bread soup.” In all seriousness, you shouldn’t feed the ducks bread, it’s not good for them.

The pond is also a lovely place for a short walk. Around it you’ll find Reykjavík City Hall, the Free Church, the National Gallery of Iceland, Hljómskálagarðurinn park, and rows of colourful old houses. In summer, the area is peaceful and green; in winter, the frozen pond and snow-covered surroundings give it a classic Reykjavík atmosphere.

Historically, Tjörnin was part of the old natural landscape of central Reykjavík, fed by water from the Vatnsmýri marshland to the south. Today it remains both a scenic landmark and a small wildlife haven in the middle of the city — a quiet pause between Reykjavík’s museums, cafés, shops, and government buildings.