For live music in the north: Græni hatturinn!

Græni hatturinn is one of Iceland’s best known concert venues. There are concerts every weekend with either new, upcoming bands, or more experienced bands whose music has long since found a place in every Icelander’s heart.

One of the best and worst things about the venue is that it is located in Akureyri, North Iceland. The location is in most ways brilliant. It is an important addition to the music scene in North Iceland, giving less known musicians the opportunity to perform and bringing to the north a great many bands that would not necessarily make the trip otherwise. The only problem is that those not living in or travelling to Akureyri miss out on this place.

Græni hatturinn manages perfectly to strike the balance between a bar and concert venue, as the place is not very big. The downside is that when popular bands perform there, tickets tend to sell out rather quickly. On the other hand, the concerts are more intimate, and it is easier for the band to reach the audience, creating the perfect atmosphere.

The ambitious programme and the venue’s perfect size and setting has established Græni hatturinn as one of the best concert venues in North Iceland, attracting locals from all the neighbouring counties.

If you’re in Akureyri and out for a drink and curious what the locals listen to, this is the place to pop into.

Photos: Daníel Starrason