Opened in 2011, Harpa concert hall 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 shimmering interiors, filled with 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.
Guided tours of Harpa concert hall 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 Harpa’s beautiful exterior as a stop on a variety of Reykjavik walking tours and Segway excursions. You can even view the hall from the water during a whale-watching cruise or from the sky in a helicopter.