On Reykjavík’s waterfront at Austurbakki 2, Harpa is a concert hall and conference centre that is worth a stop even when you have no ticket. Its faceted glass exterior takes on different colours as the light changes, and the interior has a tall, light-filled lobby with views across the harbour from upper levels. Look for the geometric ceiling and, if a performance or guided tour fits your plans, explore the building as a working music venue. There are also a café, restaurants and shops inside.
A waterfront building shaped by light
Harpa stands beside Reykjavík’s old harbour, where the glass façade catches the colours of the water and sky. Its many geometric panels sit within a steel frame, with a pattern inspired by Iceland’s basalt formations. Walk around the exterior to see how the angles and reflections change with your viewpoint and the weather. At night, lighting brings out the shapes in a different way.
The concert hall and conference centre opened in 2011. Its design was a collaboration between Henning Larsen Architects and the Danish-Icelandic artist Ólafur Elíasson. Harpa received the Mies van der Rohe Award for European Architecture in 2013.
Inside Harpa
The glass continues into a high central lobby, where daylight filters through the walls and the ceiling forms bold geometric patterns overhead. Upper levels look out over the harbour, so take time to look through the windows as you move through the building. Harpa has several halls as well as conference and exhibition spaces; the main concert hall is known for its acoustics.
The venue is home to the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and the Icelandic Opera, and its programme includes concerts and other cultural events. A performance gives you a reason to experience the hall in use, while a guided tour can add context about the building and its design. Check the event calendar before your visit if you want to plan around a specific show.
Make a stop of it
You can enter to look around without attending a performance. Inside, you will find a café, restaurants and shops, along with places to pause by the windows. The café is a useful option for a break with harbour views; the on-site restaurants make it possible to stay for a meal before or after an event.
Harpa is also part of Reykjavík’s music calendar, including Iceland Airwaves in November. If your trip coincides with the festival, check the programme for events at the venue. Families are welcome, and the building has wheelchair-accessible entrances, seating and restrooms.
Häufige Fragen
Can you visit Harpa without a concert ticket?
Yes. You can go inside to see the building, browse the shops or visit the café without attending a performance.
What is Harpa’s architecture inspired by?
Its geometric glass façade draws on Iceland’s basalt formations. The panels reflect changing light from the sky and harbour.
Is there a café or restaurant inside Harpa?
Yes. The building has a café and restaurants, as well as shops.
Can you take a guided tour of Harpa?
Guided tours are available. Check Harpa’s website for tour details and booking information.
