A history of cultural excellence
While the idea for an Icelandic national concert hall was first suggested back in 1881, it wasn’t until Harpa opened in 2011 that it became a reality.
Today, Harpa is Reykjavík’s most magnificent stage and the centre of Icelandic cultural life. The Iceland Symphony Orchestra, the Icelandic Opera, and the Reykjavík Big Band all call it their home. Plus, the Múlinn Jazz Club and the Classical Sunday Series both host regular events here.
Whenever you visit, you’ll find a busy calendar of events from local and major international acts too. See bands, soloists, dance groups, theatre companies, and much, much more.
Award-winning design
Harpa is the jewel in the crown of Reykjavík’s scenic waterfront. From the outside, the facade’s kaleidoscopic patchwork of glass plays with the city’s changing light. But head inside and you’ll discover a concert hall, the Eldborg, with one of the best acoustics in the world.
The design of the cultural centre was the result of a collaboration between artist Ólafur Elíasson, Danish architect Henning Larsen, and the Icelandic Batteríið Architects, alongside the acoustic consultants, Artec. It’s fair to say they’ve done a pretty impressive job.
Among many other awards, Harpa has won the 2010 World Architecture Award, Travel+Leisure’s Best Performance Space Design Award 2011, and the USITT Architecture Award 2018. It’s also been recognised by Gramophone as one of the 10 best concert halls built this millennium.
The home of the Volcano Express
Alongside the many other institutions that are resident at Harpa, we at the Volcano Express have also chosen this remarkable venue as our home. We’re proud to stand alongside the many leading lights of Icelandic culture here on the Austurbakki.
Come in and find us here. The Volcano Express is located on floor K2.
Visiting Harpa
You’ll discover Harpa north of Reykjavík’s downtown, just a short walk from the bustling Laugavegur and Ingólfur Square.
If you’re planning a trip here, why not make a day of it? Alongside the cultural events and exhibitions, Harpa hosts two restaurants—the Hnoss and La Primavera—and the Rammagerðin store, where you can buy souvenirs and gifts made by local craftspeople.
The Concert Hall is easy to reach by all modes of transport, including on foot, by bus, by e-scooter and bike, or by car. You can find all the details you need about reaching us on our location page.
Harpa is an accessible venue with seating for people with disabilities in all of its auditoriums.