Harpa is a concert hall and conference center, the newest public building in Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital. It opened with a concert in May 2011, marking a cultural investment to help the nation recover from the severe economic crisis that hit the island. Designed by a Danish firm in collaboration with Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson, the building reflects the strong ties between Iceland and Denmark.

The building’s structure features a steel frame covered with colorful geometric glass panels. It is situated on the spot initially intended for the World Trade Center in Reykjavik, a project that was abandoned in 2008 due to the financial crisis.

Harpa now serves as Iceland’s philharmonic hall. However, you don’t need to attend a concert to visit; it’s open daily from 10:00 AM to midnight and free to enter. Inside, there are three restaurants catering to various budgets, from high-end dining to more casual spots where you can grab a sandwich and coffee.

If interested, you can also join guided tours for about 10 euros. These tours last approximately 45 minutes and are available on public holidays.