Harpa is Reykjavik’s stunning concert hall and cultural centre, and it’s easily one of the city’s most recognisable buildings. 🎶 The glass facade, designed to mimic Iceland’s basalt columns, reflects the changing light and weather, so it always looks a little different depending on the time of day. At sunset? Absolute magic. ✨
It’s not just a pretty face, though. Harpa has won some seriously big awards for its architecture, including the Mies van der Rohe Award in 2013, which is basically the Oscars of architecture. 🏆 It’s also picked up the Civic Trust Award for its impact on the community and the built environment.
Inside, Harpa hosts everything from classical concerts and opera to rock shows and Icelandic theatre. Even if you’re not catching a performance, it’s worth popping in to wander around. The interior is modern and airy, with views of the harbour and Mount Esja through those dramatic glass panels.
There’s a cute gift shop, a café for coffee breaks, and a rooftop terrace with some of the best views in Reykjavik. 📸 It’s one of those places that blends Iceland’s natural beauty with modern design — very Reykjavik.