The History of Icelandic Pop and Rock Music

The Icelandic Museum of Rock’n Roll is a vibrant cultural centre in Hljómahöll, Reykjanesbær. Visitors can explore the history of Icelandic pop and rock music in a clear, engaging museum setting. It features a timeline stretching from the earliest records around 1830 to the present day. It illustrates the evolution of Iceland’s music scene and highlights the artists who have shaped the nation’s musical heritage.

Interactive Experiences at The Icelandic Museum of Rock’n Roll

The museum includes a small cinema where documentaries about Icelandic music are screened. Visitors can also try a variety of instruments in a specially designed sound booth, including electronic drums, guitars and bass guitars. There is even a dedicated vocal booth where guests can sing. These interactive experiences are popular with both families and music enthusiasts.

Memorabilia from Icelandic Music History

The museum houses an impressive collection of artefacts from Iceland’s music history. Highlights include the drum kit of Gunnar Jökull Hákonarson, used on the album Lifun by Trúbrot. Visitors can also see a dress worn by Emilíana Torrini in the music video for Jungle Drum. Other notable exhibits include a wooden sculpture of Hjálmar and costumes from the film Með allt á hreinu. The collection also features clothing and personal items belonging to Ellý Vilhjálms, Rúnar Júlíusson, Herbert Guðmundsson and several other well-known Icelandic musicians.

Rock Shop and Refreshments

The museum shop offers a wide selection of music-related souvenirs and books. Visitors can also enjoy coffee from Kaffitár, making the visit even more enjoyable.

A Must-Visit Destination for Music Lovers

The Icelandic Museum of Rock’n Roll is an excellent destination for anyone interested in discovering Iceland’s rich musical heritage. The museum combines fascinating stories, interactive exhibitions and unique artefacts that bring the country’s cultural legacy to life.

A NEW EXHIBITION AT MUSEUM OF ROCK’N ROLL IS SCHEDULED TO OPEN LATER IN 2026.

Ten Things to Do in Reykjanes

1. Reykjanes offers numerous beautiful hiking trails through diverse volcanic landscapes.
2. Víkingaheimar is housed in a beautifully designed building in Reykjanesbær. It is home to the Viking ship Íslendingur, a replica of the Gokstad ship discovered in Norway in 1880.
3. Walk across the Bridge Between Continents, one of the easiest places in the world to cross between Europe and North America.
4. Explore other sites within the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, including Fagradalsfjall lava fields, fascinating lava caves, Gunnuhver geothermal area and Brimketill.
5. Admire the colourful geothermal area at Seltún in Krýsuvík, where steam rises from the ground amid the distinctive scent of sulphur.
6. Discover local culture and history at Duus Museum Centre in Reykjanesbær.
7. Visit the impressive Reykjanes Lighthouse, Iceland’s oldest lighthouse. Nearby stands a monument to the last great auk, with views towards Eldey island.
8. Krýsuvíkurbjarg is the largest bird cliff in Reykjanes, home to around 60,000 nesting seabirds during summer. It is a perfect destination for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
9. If travelling during the darker months, keep an eye on the northern lights forecast. In clear weather, the views from Garðskagi Lighthouse are spectacular, especially when waves crash dramatically against the shoreline.
10. Enjoy one of the area’s swimming pools or geothermal bathing spots. Vatnaveröld in Keflavík is ideal for families, while the world-famous Blue Lagoon is not to be missed.

Further information can be found at Visit Reykjanes.