Whether you're a fan of classical, experimental, indie rock, jazz, or even Cuban-inspired grooves, Iceland’s capital offers a surprising variety of venues catering to every musical taste. Today, I’m taking you on a virtual tour of some of the most beloved — and sometimes overlooked — places to catch a live performance in and around Reykjavík.So, let’s crank up the volume and dive in!
1. Harpa Concert Hall - Iceland's Premier Music Venue
Let’s start with the crown jewel of Reykjavík’s music venues:
Harpa. This stunning glass building by the harbor is not just an architectural icon — it's a world-class concert hall. Harpa is home to the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and Icelandic Opera, so it’s your go-to for classical music, opera, and large-scale productions.But don’t be fooled — Harpa also hosts jazz nights, electronic music events, and international artists across genres. The acoustics here are unmatched, and the setting? Simply magical.
2. Gamla Bíó
A short walk from Harpa is
Gamla Bíó, or “The Old Cinema.” This historic venue has been transformed into a cozy concert hall with vintage charm. Expect indie rock, folk, pop, and the occasional orchestral ensemble. It’s an intimate setting with incredible sound, perfect for catching Icelandic artists and touring international acts in a space that feels like a hidden gem.
3. Hús Mál og Menningar
Now, let’s talk about one of my personal favorites:
Hús Mál og Menningar, right on Laugavegur, Reykjavík’s main shopping street. This bookstore-slash-bar is a cultural hub, and the upstairs stage is often alive with acoustic sets, singer-songwriter sessions, jazz, and even spoken word. The vibe here is chill, creative, and unmistakably Icelandic — it’s where you can sip a drink, browse books, and hear something totally unexpected, all in one evening.
4. Mengi
If you're into avant-garde, experimental, or contemporary classical music,
Mengi is the place. Located in a small venue on Óðinsgata, this artist-run space regularly features performances by composers, interdisciplinary artists, and improvisational musicians. It’s intimate, forward-thinking, and always pushing the boundaries of what live music can be.
5. Salurinn (Kópavogur) — Special Highlight
And just a short ride outside Reykjavík in Kópavogur is Salurinn, a beautiful, acoustically rich concert hall often hosting classical, jazz, and world music.And here’s something you won’t want to miss: On May 31st, Icelandic musician
Halli Guðmunds will be performing live at Salurinn with a six-piece band. What makes this show special? The group will be playing Cuban-inspired music and original tunes, blending Latin rhythms with Icelandic flair.It promises to be a night of danceable beats, sophisticated arrangements, and pure joy. If you're anywhere near Reykjavík at the end of May — mark your calendar. You’ll be treated to a one-of-a-kind musical journey.
Click here for tickets for Club Cubano.
6. Lemmy
On the edgier side, we have
Lemmy, Reykjavík’s go-to bar for rock, punk, and metal fans. The energy here is high-octane, the drinks are flowing, and the crowd is passionate. It’s the kind of place where you go to let loose and discover bands that might just blow your mind.
