All tours in Reykjavik

Reykjavik

Echoes of the North: Reykjavik's Sonic Revolution

2.9 km105 min7 stops

What awaits you on this Red Thread tour

Step into the beating heart of Iceland's musical miracle. How did a tiny, isolated capital on the edge of the Arctic Circle produce global icons like Björk, Sigur Rós, and a thriving, genre-defying underground scene? On this immersive redthread tour, you will trace the evolution of Reykjavik's sound—from sweaty, punk-rock basements and cozy, espresso-scented record shops to the crystalline acoustics of a world-class concert hall. Discover the DIY ethos, the fierce independence, and the tight-knit community that makes Icelandic music entirely unique.

Itinerary

1

TOUR START

Harpa Concert Hall

The spectacular architectural crown jewel of Iceland's music scene, representing the global success of Icelandic music.

Harpa Concert Hall

Pic by Manuelarosi on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

0.81 km • 12 min
2

STOP 2

Iðnó

A historic theatre by the city pond that hosted countless intimate indie gigs, representing the deep historical roots of Reykjavik's performing arts.

0.42 km • 6 min
3

STOP 3

Prikið

One of Reykjavik's oldest coffee houses that transforms into a legendary hip-hop and party venue at night.

Prikið

Pic by RG72 on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

0.24 km • 4 min
4

STOP 4

Smekkleysa (Bad Taste) Record Store

Founded by members of The Sugarcubes, this label and store is the beating heart of Iceland's punk and post-punk DIY ethos.

0.24 km • 4 min
5

STOP 5

12 Tónar

An iconic, cozy independent record store famous for offering guests free espresso while they listen to CDs on couches.

12 Tónar

Pic by Michal Gorski on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

0.06 km • 1 min
6

STOP 6

Mengi

An artist-run space dedicated to avant-garde, experimental music, and contemporary art, showcasing the boundary-pushing nature of the scene.

1.08 km • 17 min
7

END

Lucky Records

The largest record store in Iceland, serving as a physical archive of the country's musical history and ongoing DJ culture.

Lucky Records

Pic by RG72 on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Where the tour takes place

Starting point and rough tour area – the exact route unfolds in the app.

Good to know

  • Ideal for Music lovers, vinyl collectors, pop-culture enthusiasts, and urban explorers fascinated by creative subcultures.
  • Best time Late afternoon to early evening, when the record stores are buzzing and the venues begin to wake up for the night.
  • Bring headphones You will definitely want to queue up some Björk and Sigur Rós as you walk between stops.
  • Dress in layers Reykjavik weather is notoriously fickle; be prepared for wind, rain, and sudden sunshine.
  • Take your time Don't rush the record stores. Flipping through vinyl is a crucial part of this experience.
  • Coffee breaks Embrace the local cafe culture. A warm drink is essential for the true Icelandic vibe.
  • Your voucher You can redeem your voucher for two years from purchase. Once redeemed, you have 14 days of access and can enjoy the tour as often as you like during that time.

Your guide

Hannah Clarke
Audio sample
0:000:00

Hannah Clarke

  • Pop Culture & Media Landscapes
  • Southern England

Pop culture scout. Leads to filming locations, music hotspots, and fan cultures – where fiction and reality touch.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to the tour after buying?

You see your voucher code right after payment – and you also receive it at the email address you entered at checkout. Redeem that code in the Red Thread app; that's where the tour starts.

When does my access start?

Only when you redeem the code in the app, not at purchase. From redemption you have 14 days of access to the tour.

Do I need the Red Thread app?

Yes. The free Red Thread app turns your tour into a vivid experience: with audio, a map, and thoughtful prompts, it guides you from place to place in an engaging and entertaining way. It's available free for iOS and Android.

Discover more tours in Reykjavik

Experience Reykjavik from more surprising perspectives.

See more tours in Reykjavik
Now only €3.99 incl. VAT