Harpa (Reykjavik Concert Hall and Conference Centre)

The basics

Opened in 2011, Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre is the hub of the Reykjavik cultural scene. There’s something going on here nearly every night of the week, from the city’s most prestigious music and theater events to lower-key, free concerts. Even if you are not seeing a show, it is well worth visiting to admire the interiors bathed in natural light, the public artworks, and the views over Reykjavik’s Old Harbour. The building also houses a couple of restaurants and several shops selling Nordic music, books, design items, and gifts.

Harpa tours shed light on the award-winning architecture and typically take visitors behind the scenes to areas of the building, including the main stage, usually only accessible to performers. You can also enjoy the beautiful exterior as a stop on a variety of Reykjavik walking and bike excursions. You can even view the hall from the water during a whale-watching cruise or from the sky in a helicopter.

Things to know before you go

• The concert hall is a must-see attraction for architecture and design enthusiasts.

• The building is free to enter but take a guided tour to explore behind the scenes.

• The building is accessible for wheelchair users with an elevator that connects the floors, and accessible doors and restrooms.

• There is free Wi-Fi in the building.

How to get there

Set in the heart of the city, by the Old Harbour, Harpa is located no more than a 15-minute walk from downtown hotels via the pedestrian crossing over Tryggvagata. If you are driving, you can access Harpa via Saebraut and park in the concert hall’s own (paid) covered car park. Harpa bus stop is served by public bus number 3.

When to get there

The concert hall is open every day from early morning through late night. After dark provides the best views of the exterior as the facade’s shifting color patterns light up the night sky. One of the best times to catch a concert is during the annual Iceland Airwaves music festival, one of the world’s premium musical showcases. Airwaves concerts occur around the city, but the biggest names tend to play Harpa.

Exploring Harpa, Iceland’s cultural hub

A Reykjavik landmark, this cultural hub is as famed for its striking architecture and glistening interiors as it is for its performance calendar. Book a Harpa ticket online or at the box office to experience the Icelandic musical scene, watch stand-up comedy, or enjoy a play. Otherwise, join a scenes visit with a tour guide and uncover Harpa’s secrets.

Ways to explore

Harpa is the hub of Reykjavik’s cultural scene. Even if you’re not catching a show, it’s well worth visiting to admire the interior, the public artwork, and the views over Reykjavik’s Old Harbour.

Harpa tours shed light on the award-winning architecture and typically take you behind the scenes, including on the main stage that is usually only accessible to performers. You can also see the exterior as a stop on various Reykjavik walking and biking excursions. Or, catch a view of the hall from the water during a whale-watching cruise or from the sky during a helicopter tour.

Accessibility

Harpa is accessible to wheelchair users, featuring elevators to the parking garage and wheelchair-friendly seating in the performance spaces.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, extra layer

What to wear

Smart attire appropriate for Reykjavik’s nicest entertainment venue

Not allowed

Standard concert hall etiquette applies

Amenities

Restaurants, harbor views, tours, gift shop, restrooms for paid visitors

Address

Harpa is located right on the waterfront in central Reykjavik. If you’re not already in the area, you can get there via car, bike, taxi, scooter, or tour.

Driving

Harpa has its own two-story underground parking garage. Once you’re in the city center, that’s where to go. It’s open 24-7.

Public transportation

Harpa is the first stop on the hop-on hop-off bus route, and you can get there via other city buses as well. Laekjartorg, a local transit hub, is right nearby. You’ll also find electric scooters for rent across the city.

Best times to visit

Come during daylight hours to see the glass facade’s color changes and wander around more freely—you might be able to listen to a lunchtime concert, too.

Best days to visit

There’s no bad day to visit, and events are consistently scheduled throughout the year. Check the calendar to see what’s scheduled during your visit.

Best months to visit

If traveling to Reykjavik in winter (November through March), be sure to check out Harpa, which is often illuminated with vibrant colors against the dark skies.

Special events

Harpa hosts many of Reykjavik’s exhibitions, concerts, cultural events, meetings, and festivals, including Iceland Airwaves, a city-wide music festival typically held in November.