Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre, Reykjavik (must see)

Located on the waterfront of Reykjavík, Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre stands as one of the city’s most distinctive modern landmarks and a symbol of Iceland’s cultural renewal in the early 21st century. The project was shaped by the 2008 financial crisis, which delayed construction, before being completed as a public initiative and officially opening in 2011.

As the first purpose-built concert hall in Reykjavík, Harpa became a central home for the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and houses the offices of the Icelandic Opera, while also hosting performances by groups such as the Reykjavík Big Band.

Beyond classical concerts and opera, Harpa hosts a wide range of events, from international conferences to themed shows such as How to Become Icelandic in 60 Minutes and Reykjavík Classics. The venue has also appeared in productions like Black Mirror and Sense8.

Architecturally, Harpa is defined by its impressive façade of geometric, honeycomb-like glass panels set over a steel framework. The central architectural highlight is the "Quasi-Brick" façade, located primarily on the south side of the building facing the sea. To find the best perspective, stand in the main atrium and look upward; you can see the twelve-sided glass modules. Inspired by Iceland’s basalt formations, the panels shift in colour and reflect changing light conditions, giving the building a dynamic appearance—especially after dark, when it becomes one of the city’s most visually impressive sights. This innovative design earned Harpa the European Union’s Mies van der Rohe Award in 2013, along with recognition as one of Northern Europe’s leading conference venues.

Inside, the building opens into a spacious atrium where light and structure interact throughout the day. The main concert hall, Eldborg, is located within the central core of the building. To find it, follow the main floor corridor from the lobby and ascend the grand staircases toward the "heart" of the structure. Eldborg is known for its warm red interior, designed to evoke a glowing volcanic crater, and its carefully engineered acoustics. Once you find yourself inside, look for the massive adjustable acoustic panels and the deep red walls that give the hall its distinctive "Fire Castle" atmosphere.

A final notable highlight is the Harbor View Walkways located on the upper levels of the sea-facing atrium. To reach this area, take the elevator or stairs to the fourth floor and walk toward the glass perimeter. From here, visitors are offered wide views over the city’s colorful rooftops and the North Atlantic.

Outside, in the water beside the building, stands The Musician, a 1970 sculpture depicting a cellist, relocated here from the orchestra’s former home. Visitors should note that as a functioning venue, certain halls may be closed for rehearsals, so checking the daily schedule at the information desk is advisable.