Harpa Concert Hall: Iceland’s Beacon of Culture and Architecture

Claim to Fame

Harpa Concert Hall is Reykjavík’s award-winning cultural landmark, celebrated for its dazzling glass façade and role as Iceland’s premier venue for music and the performing arts.

📌 Navigating Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik : Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Washrooms: Washrooms are available on each floor, easily accessible to all visitors.
Hours of Operation: Harpa Concert Hall is generally open from 10 AM to 10 PM, but hours may vary based on events and performances.
Important Information: It is advisable to check the event schedule in advance and arrive early for performances to find optimal seating.
Admission Fee: Admission to the concert hall is free; however, tickets may be required for specific events and performances.
How Long to Visit: Visitors typically spend about 1 to 2 hours exploring the hall and its exhibitions, plus additional time if attending a performance.
Parking: Harpa Concert Hall has a nearby parking garage, but it can fill up quickly during events, so early arrival is recommended.
Family Friendly: Harpa is family-friendly, offering activities and events suitable for visitors of all ages.
Photography: Photography is permitted in most areas of the concert hall, but flash photography and tripods may be restricted during performances.
WIFI: Free WIFI is available throughout the Harpa Concert Hall for visitors.
Picnic Area: There is no designated picnic area within Harpa; however, nearby parks may be suitable for outdoor dining.
Handicap Accessible: The venue is fully handicap accessible, with ramps and elevators available throughout the building.
Pets: Pets are not allowed inside Harpa Concert Hall, with the exception of service animals.
Guided Tours: Guided tours are available, providing insights into the architecture and history of the building, as well as its events.
Restaurant or Cafe: There is a café and restaurant on-site, offering a variety of food and drink options with views of the harbor.
Gift Shop: A gift shop is located within the concert hall, featuring souvenirs, music, and local crafts.

📌Heads up: All times, prices and visitor policies are subject to change without notice. Please check the official website for the most recent information.

Photos of Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik

Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre is a striking symbol of modern Iceland, standing proudly on the Reykjavík waterfront. Opened in 2011, the building quickly became a national treasure—not only as the home of the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and Icelandic Opera, but as a masterpiece of contemporary architecture. Its crystalline exterior, designed by Henning Larsen Architects in collaboration with artist Ólafur Elíasson, reflects the light and colors of the surrounding sea, sky, and city, creating a living, breathing structure that changes throughout the day.

Beyond its architectural beauty, Harpa plays a central role in Iceland’s cultural life. From classical symphonies and jazz concerts to electronic festivals and international conferences, the venue showcases both local talent and world-renowned performers. Its main halls—Eldborg, Norðurljós, and Silfurberg—are acoustically engineered for exceptional clarity, making it one of the best concert experiences in Europe.

Best Time to Visit

Harpa is open year-round, with events scheduled across all seasons. Summer offers long evenings and festival energy, while winter adds the chance to see the building’s glowing façade under a snowy Reykjavík sky or even the northern lights.

How to Get There

Located at Austurbakki 2 in downtown Reykjavík, Harpa is easily accessible by foot from most central hotels. It’s also near several bus stops and taxi stands. Free public tours are sometimes available, and ticketed guided tours run regularly.

Photo Opportunities

Close-ups of the kaleidoscopic glass panels reflecting the harbor
Wide-angle shots of the building lit up at night
Interior staircases and geometric lighting details
Views through the windows overlooking Mount Esja and Faxaflói Bay

Travel Tips

Check the events calendar online and book in advance—many shows sell out.
The building is free to enter and explore, even if you’re not attending a performance.
There’s a gift shop and a stylish café inside with views of the water.
Pair your visit with a harbor walk or nearby restaurants and museums.

FAQs

Can I visit Harpa without a ticket?
Yes, the public spaces are open daily and free to explore, though ticketed performances are held in the main halls.

Is Harpa suitable for children?
Absolutely—many family-friendly events are hosted here, and children will enjoy the lights and design of the building.

Is Harpa only for classical music?
Not at all. Harpa features a wide range of genres including pop, jazz, electronic, folk, and more, as well as theater and talks.

Final Thoughts

Harpa Concert Hall is more than a venue—it’s a living symbol of Icelandic creativity and resilience. Whether you're attending a world-class performance or simply admiring its luminous design, a visit to Harpa offers an unforgettable blend of culture, art, and architectural brilliance on Reykjavík’s scenic edge.

Things To Do near Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik

Golden Circle

The Distance from Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik to Golden Circle is 1.1 Kilometer(s) / 0.7 Mile(s)

Reykjavik

The Distance from Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik to Reykjavik is 1.8 Kilometer(s) / 1.1 Mile(s)

Iceland Northern Lights

The Distance from Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik to Iceland Northern Lights is 4.3 Kilometer(s) / 2.7 Mile(s)

📘 Iceland Visitors Travel Information

Time Zone: Iceland operates on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) year-round. It does not observe Daylight Saving Time.

Weather: Iceland has a subarctic and oceanic climate, characterized by cool summers and relatively mild winters for its latitude. Summer temperatures average 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), while winters hover around -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F). Weather is highly variable, with frequent wind and sudden changes.

Population: Iceland has a population of approximately 380,000 people, making it one of the least populated countries in Europe. Nearly 60% of the population lives in or around the capital city, Reykjavík.

Size: Iceland covers about 103,000 square kilometers (40,000 square miles), making it the second-largest island in Europe. Its landscape features volcanoes, glaciers, geothermal springs, and lava fields.

Language: Icelandic is the official language, but English is widely spoken and understood throughout the country, especially in tourism and service industries.

Currency: The official currency is the Icelandic Króna (ISK). Credit and debit cards are accepted nearly everywhere, including taxis and remote guesthouses. Cash is rarely needed.

Safety: Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world. Violent crime is extremely rare, and solo travel is common. Natural hazards, such as strong winds or icy roads, pose the biggest risks for visitors.

Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Iceland, as service charges are typically included in the bill. However, rounding up or leaving a small tip for excellent service is appreciated but not expected.

Electricity and Plugs: Iceland uses 230V electricity at 50Hz. Plug types C and F are standard. Visitors from countries using different plug types should bring an adapter.

Water: Tap water in Iceland is exceptionally pure and safe to drink. It comes directly from natural springs and glaciers, often without chemical treatment. Bottled water is unnecessary.

Annual Visitors: Iceland receives over 2 million visitors annually—more than five times its population. Tourists are drawn by the Northern Lights, the Blue Lagoon, waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes.

Visa Requirements: Citizens of the EU, U.S., Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter Iceland visa-free for up to 90 days within the Schengen Area. A valid passport is required.

Health & Vaccinations: No vaccinations are required to enter Iceland. Visitors should be up to date on routine vaccines such as tetanus, flu, and MMR. Healthcare is high quality and available in most towns.

Transportation: Public transportation is limited outside Reykjavík. Most travelers rent cars to explore the countryside and the Ring Road. Tour buses also serve major natural attractions. Roads may be closed in winter due to weather.

Food: Icelandic cuisine includes lamb, seafood, skyr (a yogurt-like dairy product), and traditional dishes like fermented shark. Reykjavík offers a wide variety of restaurants, including international options.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms: Icelanders are friendly, honest, and value personal space. Punctuality is important, and visitors are expected to respect nature and follow local guidelines, especially when exploring natural areas.

Telecommunications & Connectivity: Wi-Fi is widely available in Iceland, including hotels, cafés, buses, and even remote guesthouses. Mobile coverage is good in most areas, and local SIM cards are available at the airport and convenience stores.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is strongly recommended in Iceland. Medical care for non-residents can be expensive, and insurance can also cover weather-related delays, cancellations, and rental car coverage for rural travel.

Did You Know? - Facts About Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik

The concert hall opened in 2011 and has since won numerous architectural awards, including the prestigious Mies van der Rohe Award.

Harpa is home to the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and the Icelandic Opera, offering a wide range of musical and cultural events.

The Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre, located in Reykjavik, is an architectural landmark and cultural hub.

The building's distinctive glass facade, designed by artist Olafur Eliasson, is inspired by the basalt landscape of Iceland and creates a dynamic display of light.

Harpa’s location by the waterfront provides stunning views of the surrounding harbor and mountains, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.