Hotels near Harpa Concert Hall

Sitting at the edge of the Old Harbour, Harpa is a masterpiece of modern architecture and one of the most visually stunning Reykjavik attractions. Designed by Henning Larsen Architects in collaboration with artist Olafur Eliasson, the building's facade is a honeycomb of multi-coloured glass panels that shift in colour with the Arctic light - it looks completely different at sunrise, midday, and under the winter Northern Lights. Harpa won the European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture (Mies van der Rohe Award) in 2013.

Inside, Harpa serves as the home of the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and the Icelandic Opera. Even if you do not attend a performance, the building is free to enter and explore. The ground-floor lobby offers sweeping harbour views through the glass walls, a shop selling Icelandic design, and a cafe. Guided architecture tours run daily at 15:30 (ISK 2,750/~€18). Check the events calendar for everything from classical concerts to indie gigs - this is the cultural heartbeat of the city.

Pro Tip: Visit at sunset (or sunrise in summer) when the glass facade becomes a kaleidoscope. The terrace outside facing the harbour is one of the best photo spots in Reykjavik, especially with Mount Esja in the background.