Music

Iceland Airwaves Is An Electrifying Festival Experience

The three-day event is made for music-loving travelers.

by Gabrielle Bondi
Fókus performing at Iceland Airwaves 2023. Photo by Florian Trykowski.
Iceland Airwaves/Florian Trykowski

Iceland Airwaves/Florian Trykowski

Iceland Airwaves invited me to its annual music festival in Reykjavik — thanks to Icelandair.

With a multi-genre lineup, an array of historic venues, and a flexible schedule, it was perfect for a first-time visitor and avid concert-goer.

Photo by Florian Trykowski

Bustle/Gabrielle Bondi

The performances take place in the evenings, which leaves your day open to explore Iceland’s capital city.

Bustle/Gabrielle Bondi

For instance, nothing beats taking a relaxing dip in the Blue Lagoon’s warm waters. The geothermal pool and its spa amenities will refresh you between concert days.

Bustle/Gabrielle Bondi

You can also take a day trip to see Iceland’s other natural wonders, including The Lava Tunnel. (Also, don’t forget the charming shops and restaurants along Reykjavik’s Laugavegur Street.)

Iceland Airwaves/Florian Trykowski

The sightseeing doesn’t stop once the music festival gets underway. Iceland Airwaves takes place at several cool venues in downtown Reykjavik.

Photo by Florian Trykowski

Iceland Airwaves/Cat Gundry Beck

Festival-goers got to experience local Icelandic artists, including Una Torfa, at the city’s art museum.

Photo by Cat Gundry Beck

Iceland Airwaves/Cat Gundry Beck

Indie rock bands, like Bombay Bicycle Club, also performed at the Reykjavik Art Museum Hafnarhús.

Photo by Cat Gundry Beck

Iceland Airwaves/Florian Trykowski

The Fríkirkjan church featured intimate concerts with folk artists like Nanna and Elín Hall.

Photo by Florian Trykowski

Iceland Airwaves/Flore Dikkers

The historic cinema, Gamla Bió, saw several artists of different genres, ranging from punk to electronica and indie pop.

Photo by Flore Dikkers

Iceland Airwaves/Florian Trykowski

That’s just a few of the wonders that Iceland Airwaves and Reykjavik have to offer music fans and tourists. Fortunately, the festival will be returning next year, and yes, 2024 passes are already on sale.

Photo by Florian Trykowski