About Laugardalsvöllur
Laugardalsvöllur (literally “Laugardalur Stadium”) is Iceland’s national football stadium and the largest in the country . It stands in the Laugardalur valley (a green sports park north of central Reykjavík) and was inaugurated in 1958, making it one of Iceland’s earliest purpose-built stadiums . The venue has two main stands opposite each other (the west/main stand and east stand) plus two curved terraced ends. As the home of the Iceland men’s and women’s national teams , it’s a focal point of national pride. The stadium’s concrete stands have been renovated over the decades (major upgrades in 1997 and 2007), and it is currently undergoing a full redevelopment. The 2004 friendly win over Italy (2–0, in front of a record crowd) and recent successes of the Icelandic team all happened here. Laugardalsvöllur also hosts major cultural events – big concerts (25–30,000 capacity on the pitch) and national cup finals – making it a key multi-purpose landmark . Despite its modest size compared to international arenas, this open-air venue carries historic significance for Icelandic sport and culture .
Events and Programming
The stadium’s regular events center on football. It hosts all home matches for Iceland’s national teams (senior and youth, men’s and women’s). These include competitive qualifiers (e.g. World Cup and European Championship qualifiers), high-profile friendlies, and annual domestic cup finals (Men’s and Women’s Mjólkurbikar). Local league games are occasionally held here (for example FRAM Reykjavík plays some home matches at Laugardalsvöllur) . In the summer months, the pitch may also be used for community sports events.
On non-game days Laugardalsvöllur turns into Reykjavík’s big outdoor concert arena. Major international artists and tours have played floodlit summer shows on the grass. Recent headline concerts have included Guns N’ Roses in 2018 (around 25,000 attendees, Iceland’s largest rock concert) , Ed Sheeran (two sold-out nights in 2019 with some 20–30,000 fans each night) , Elton John’s farewell tour in 2023, and other global acts. These concerts use additional floor seating/standing on the playing surface to reach roughly 25–28,000 capacity . Any touring event of that scale in Iceland almost always takes place here. The stadium can therefore host several events each year: a handful of national team matches, an annual cup final, and big summertime concerts or festivals when scheduled. Ticket prices vary widely – small friendlies might start at a few thousand ISK rim (sometimes IAFA sells them cheaply), whereas big qualifiers and concerts can range from mid-thousands to well over 10,000 ISK per ticket, depending on seat quality and demand.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for sports events at Laugardalsvöllur are typically sold through official channels. For national team games, tickets normally go on sale via the Football Association’s website (KSÍ) or at its office in Laugardalur, then through authorized local agents. Concert tickets are issued by promoters (often sold online). Most popular shows sell out quickly, so it’s wise to book well in advance. Presales are common (fan clubs, mailing lists), followed by general release. There is no universal box office at the stadium on game day (some events may have a ticket booth outside, but don’t count on it selling much). Ticket tiers usually include seated stands (west/east stand) and field-level standing or seated zones for concerts.
Pricing tiers depend on event size and location in the stadium. For big matches, expect the best seats (central main-stand) to cost several thousand ISK, while cheaper seats (side or angled views) are less. Children and seniors often pay reduced prices for football matches. Concert pricing varies by act but typically a general-admission floor or back-stand ticket may be 8,000–15,000 ISK (sometimes more for premium zones). On rare occasions an event might sell tickets at the gate if not sold out, but popular fixtures usually have no walk-up availability. Always use official vendors (KSÍ for football, recognized box offices or event sites for concerts) and avoid secondary sites. If in doubt, check the local press or the venue’s announcements for on-sale dates.
Seating and Layout
Laugardalsvöllur consists of two large covered stands facing each other along the length of the pitch, plus two smaller end stands. The **West Stand** (main stand) is the larger of the two and contains most of the facilities (locker rooms, media, VIP boxes), with roughly 3,500 seats . Opposite it is the **East Stand** with about 6,300 seats . Both stands are enclosed and provide all-seated viewing. At each end of the field are uncovered **curved terraces** for standing spectators: the North end holds about 2,000 (standing) and the South end about 3,200 . These terraces boost capacity for boisterous home or away fans.
For football matches, the best views are in the mid-section of either main stand, close to the halfway line and under cover. These central seats offer the flattest sightlines to both goals and easy access to amenities. In contrast, seats at the extreme ends of any stand may have a slanted angle or be farther from the action. If you are watching a concert, avoid seats *directly behind* the stage (which is usually set up at one end of the pitch). Those vantage points will have a poor view, so most concert tickets are never sold for the end where the stage is placed. Similarly, seats very high in the back row have the longest lines to facilities and are farthest from sound.
The stadium is entirely open-air: no roof covers the seating (though the stands are slightly cantilevered). This means weather can be felt everywhere. Acoustically, the open design disperses sound outward, so large concerts rely on extra sound rigs and jumbo screens. The stadium’s electronic scoreboard and PA system ensure everyone can follow the action or music, but outdoor echo is unavoidable.
Getting There and Parking
Laugardalsvöllur’s address is **Engjavegur (Laugardalur), 104 Reykjavík** , about 2 km north of downtown Reykjavík. It sits within the city’s sports park (Laugardalur). By car, follow signs to Laugardalur or to nearby landmarks like the botanical gardens. Reykjavík has limited free parking zones, so if you drive expect to use an official lot. There is a city-run parking area at the adjoining Laugardalshöll arena and at the Laugardalslaug pool . During events there is usually controlled parking staff. Note that Reykjavik parking fees apply in nearby lots: many city lots charge roughly **190 ISK for the first hour** and about **130 ISK each additional hour** . (Street parking is mostly short-term or disabled only.) On big event nights, nearby streets may be closed or congested, so allow extra time.
Public transport is very effective for reaching the stadium. Reykjavík’s Strætó buses serve Laugardalur frequently. Key routes include lines **2, 14, 17 and 19**, which stop by the Laugardalslaug pool/Laugarásvegur area and at Nordica/Laugardalshöll . Routes **15, 5** and others also circle the valley . To plan, use the Strætó app or maps; buses from downtown run until around 23:00 or midnight (later on weekends). The nearest major bus hubs are Hlemmur and BSI (the central bus terminal) – from there a direct bus takes about 10–15 minutes to Laugardalur. Taxi or rideshare (e.g. Hreyfill Taxi services via app) are convenient after events, but traffic can get heavy immediately post-game. Walking is possible (roughly a 30–40-minute flat walk from downtown) on pedestrian paths through the valley if weather is good.
Inside the Venue
When you enter Laugardalsvöllur, expect typical stadium entry procedures. Gates open about 1–1½ hours before kickoff or showtime. Security staff will scan tickets and perform quick bag checks or metal-detecting for large events. For past concerts (e.g. Guns N’ Roses 2018), fans have noted very **long single-file queues** to get in . It’s wise to arrive early – ideally well before game or performance time – to avoid hour-long waits. Once inside, the atmosphere is electric: Icelandic fans are passionate, often doing the famous “Viking clap” cheer together. Attendees span all ages and languages; announcements may be made in Icelandic (with English if needed).
The venue offers basic concessions. Inside the concourse you’ll find a few vendor stands and food trucks selling local stadium snacks (hot dogs, fries, pizza, etc.), and taps for beer and other drinks. At packed events these lines can be very slow – one report described just 2–3 food trucks serving thousands of people, leading to “super long” queues . Expect volumes (lager beers, soda) to be moderately priced by Reykjavík standards, but bring cash or a credit card – cards are widely accepted. Outside food or drink is not permitted, and alcohol is served only in designated areas (age checks are enforced for beer/wine).
Amenities include restrooms under each main stand (male, female and accessible toilets). There are also baby-changing areas near the facilities wing. Cash machines (ATMs) are **not** inside the stadium, so withdraw beforehand or use card payments. A small merchandise kiosk often sells team jerseys or event T-shirts by the main stand. Note that not much Wi-Fi is provided on site – mobile data usually works, but signal can be spotty with large crowds. For serious photographers: phone and compact cameras are allowed, but large DSLRs or video gear may be restricted at the door.
Nearby Amenities
Laugardalsvöllur lies in a park-like area with useful nearby amenities. Directly adjacent are the **Laugardalslaug** geothermally heated pool complex (with hot tubs) and the **Botanical Garden/Reykjavík Zoo & Family Park** – both family attractions open daily. These make good pre-game activities. Along Suðurlandsbraut (the road parallel to the stadium) are several cafés and restaurants within a 5-minute walk. Options include the vegetarian/organic eatery *Gló* and the Mexican *Culiacan* for a quick meal, a quality coffee shop like *Klúb Akureyri* or *Múlakaffi*, and pub-style spots such as *Café Flóran* and *Vox Bar* which offer Icelandic pub fare . In summer, many fans pick up food in town beforehand or stroll from the pool area to buy snacks.
Accommodation near the stadium is limited, but not far away. The closest hotel is *Hotel Cabin* (Borgartún 32), about 700m from Laugardalslaug . Several other hotels and guesthouses cluster around downtown Reykjavík (2–3 km south) within a 5–10 minute drive or short bus ride. If you’re staying in the city, any central Reykjavik lodging (Fosshotel, CenterHotels, etc.) will be accessible by a quick cab or bus service. After events, the pool parking lot and streets may fill up, so plan to leave promptly or have a taxi pre-booked.
What Makes This Venue Special
Laugardalsvöllur is unique in Iceland for blending history, community and modern sport. It was one of Iceland’s first big stadium projects, opened in the early post-war era , and it has remained central to every major football story in Iceland. Iceland’s improbable rise on the world stage (Euro 2016, Nations League successes, etc.) is rooted here. For example, the record 20,204-fan turnout in 2004 (when tiny Iceland beat Italy) happened in this concrete bowl . The stands may look modest by international standards, but locals cherish them: this is “vessel holding the dreams and hopes of an entire island nation” .
Architecturally, the two facing stands give Laugardalsvöllur a classic look – the new west grandstand (built 2006) juts forward on concrete pillars, while the old east stand was raised in 1997 to match. It sits in the lush Laugardalur valley, so spectators often see the rugged range of Esjan mountain on the horizon, adding natural beauty. Culturally, the stadium is Icelandic in spirit – fans dress in team colors, sit or stand together, and celebrate with the famous “Viking clap” (a slow, synchronized hand-clap chant). International artists love playing here because the crowd is insanely enthusiastic; even owning a piece of Icelandic history like the Ed Sheeran shows or GNR concert is special.
Currently, Laugardalsvöllur is being transformed into a state-of-the-art soccer-only stadium : future phases will add high-end facilities (hospitality suites, expanded concourses) and ensure year-round use (the pitch is getting hybrid grass and under-pitch heating ). This renovation underscores how deeply the community values the venue. Today, both players and fans describe it in reverent terms – it may not be “the loudest” stadium in the world, but in Iceland it’s *the* cathedral of football and big events.
Visitor Tips and Information
**Arrival:** Plan to arrive well before the event. Large concerts and big matches typically open doors 60–90 minutes early. Reykjavik weather can change quickly; even summer evenings get chilly and windy in Laugardalur, so dress in layers and bring a rain jacket just in case. The stands are uncovered, so you’ll feel the elements. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must (there are stairs in the stands and at steep ramps to terraces).
**Security:** Expect standard security screening at entry. Avoid bringing large backpacks; most attendees carry just a small bag or none at all. Follow staff instructions and have your ticket ready. Cameras: Photography for personal use is usually fine (e.g. smartphone or compact camera), but professional video/cameras and large tripods are typically disallowed.
**WakeTimes:** If arriving late, note that doors may close promptly at start time and may not re-open after kickoff. On exiting, the traffic surge can be intense – conveniently, the stadium’s location lets you step out into wide paths, but buses may be crowded. Taxi lines form quickly. There’s no official coat check, so keep belongings minimal.
**Accessibility:** The main stands have accessible seating (wheelchair and companion spots) near ground level and ramps or lifts to each tier. Only the West stand has an elevator for upper levels (used by staff) – if mobility is a concern, request a seat on the lower rows in either stand near an entry gate. Accessible parking spots exist near the stadium entrance. There are disabled toilets in each main concourse. If in doubt, contact the Football Association or event organizer ahead of time for assistance.
**Conduct:** Icelandic stadium etiquette is friendly. Families and children are common at daytime matches; alcohol is only sold in controlled areas so games remain family-friendly. Behavior is enthusiastic but polite – for instance, the team anthem *“Vísur Vatnsenda Rósu”* (Water Lily Song) is often sung in both Icelandic and English by crowds. Feel free to join in the Viking Clap (hands and stomps to “*huh!*” chant) or engage with fans, but respect others’ space.
**Essentials:** Pack any needed medication and a fully charged phone. There are water fountains near restrooms in the concourse (public in Iceland). Credit cards are widely accepted at on-site vendors, but it’s not a bad idea to carry 1–2,000 ISK in cash for snacks or souvenirs. Vodafone and Síminn (major carriers) have good coverage in the stadium; you may see people sharing game pics with #Laugardalsvöllur.
Finally, enjoy the atmosphere. Starting a cold, windy match or a warm summer concert here feels uniquely Icelandic – whatever the outcome, you’re part of a historic event in a venue that locals hold dear.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the seating capacity of Laugardalsvöllur?
Laugardalsvöllur holds about **9,500 spectators for football matches** (all seats in the stands) . For concerts or events using the pitch area, it can accommodate up to **25,000–28,000 people** (with standing room on the field) . The two main stands seat roughly 10,000 (3,500 west + 6,300 east) and the north/south terraces add about 5,000 more .
How can I get tickets and what do they cost?
Tickets are sold through official channels. For football games, buy via the Football Association of Iceland (KSÍ) website or authorized outlets; concerts use the event promoter’s box office. Summer concerts often sell out quickly. Prices vary: small friendlies can be a couple thousand ISK, while big qualifiers or pop concerts can go up to 8–15k ISK (or more) for prime seats. There may be youth or senior discounts for matches. Door sales are rarely available for big events, so book in advance.
What is the address of Laugardalsvöllur?
Laugardalsvöllur is located in the Laugardalur valley of Reykjavík. The official address is **Engjavegur (Laugardalur), 104 Reykjavík** (sometimes listed as Knattspyrnusamband Íslands, Laugardal). It’s about 2 km north of the city center.
How do I reach Laugardalsvöllur by public transport?
You can take one of several Strætó buses into Laugardalur. Common routes include **#2, 14, 17, 19** which stop near the Laugardalslaug pool and Laugardalshöll arena . Routes **#15, 5** also pass nearby . Check the current bus schedules (Reykjavik Bus app or website) as times change seasonally. From downtown (Hlemmur or BSI bus station) it’s roughly a 10–15 minute ride. Buses run into the evening; note that service winds down after midnight. Taxis and ride-hailing (Hreyfill) are easy alternatives from anywhere in the city.
Is there parking at Laugardalsvöllur, and is it free?
Yes, there are parking lots at the stadium and nearby venues (like the Laugardalslaug pool ). These lots are managed by the city: short-term parking typically costs **~190 ISK for the first hour** and **130 ISK each additional hour** ; evening or event rates apply as posted. On event days officials often direct cars to open lots. Street parking in Laugardalur is very limited. On busy event days these lots fill up early, so carpooling or public transit is recommended if possible.
Does Laugardalsvöllur have both seated stands and standing areas?
Yes. The stadium has two major all-seater stands (West and East) and two smaller open terrace ends. The **West Stand** (main stand) holds about 3,500 seats and the **East Stand** about 6,300 . The **North and South ends** are uncovered terracing for standing spectators (about 2,000 north and 3,200 south) . For concerts, the field between the stands is used for additional general admission standing or seating.
Where are the best seats for viewing at Laugardalsvöllur?
For football matches, the optimal seats are central in either main stand, near halfway. Rows a few dozen back give a wide view of the whole pitch and goals. Avoid extreme end-row seats (long walks) or far off to the sides (sharper angle). For concerts, the best AV experience is on the side stands (not directly behind the stage). Front rows in lower stands are great for atmosphere, but in the back it gets far from performers. In general, mid-field seating on either side yields the most balanced view.
Are seats directly behind the stage at concerts problematic?
Yes. When the stage is set up at one end of the pitch, seats immediately *behind* it will have a very limited view of the performance (often only seeing the back of the stage or giant screens). Concert promoters typically block off these seats from sale. If you accidentally end up in a seat labeled “behind stage”, you may not see much, so it’s best to stick to side or front-of-stage zones. Check your ticket’s section before buying.
Can I bring outside food and drinks into Laugardalsvöllur?
No. Outside food and beverages (including alcohol) are generally **not allowed** inside the stadium. Event organizers typically post a bag/food policy. Concessions with snacks and drinks are available inside; you’ll need to purchase there. Small personal water bottles may be ok, but nothing large or shared. Also note that alcohol (beer/wine) is only sold on-site in licensed stalls – you cannot bring your own. Follow staff guidance on what can be carried in.
Are professional cameras or recording devices permitted?
Standard point-and-shoot cameras and smartphones for personal use are usually fine. However, large professional cameras (with detachable lenses) or video-recording equipment are typically **not permitted** without special media accreditation. If you intend to photograph or record large parts of the event, check the ticket or event rules. At most football games and concerts, the policy is no professional gear unless you have press access. Always ask on-site staff if unsure.
What food and drinks are available inside Laugardalsvöllur?
Inside the stadium you will find a handful of concession stands and trucks. These sell typical stadium fare: hot dogs (pylsur), fries, pizza slices, and sometimes sandwiches or burgers. There are beer and soft drink vendors (local draft beer is common in summer events). Vegetarian/gluten-free options may be limited, so plan accordingly. Expect queues; past events have noted only a few trucks for thousands of fans . Bring cash or card – vendors accept both.
Are there ATMs or credit card machines at the stadium?
As of recent reports, there are **no ATMs inside** Laugardalsvöllur. It’s best to withdraw cash beforehand if you prefer cash. That said, nearly all food/drink and merchandise kiosks accept credit/debit cards. Visa and Mastercard are widely used. Having a payment card or phone payment app will suffice for most purchases. Still, carrying a small amount of cash (2,000–3,000 ISK) can be handy for minor items or vending machines.
Does Laugardalsvöllur have a roof?
No. Laugardalsvöllur is an **open-air** stadium. None of the stands has an overhead roof (they have cantilevered fronts but are not fully covered). This means rain or sun will reach the seats. The venue is used mostly in spring, summer and early autumn; it has under-soil heating for the pitch (added during recent renovations) to prevent ice, but spectators should be prepared for Iceland’s weather. Rain jackets and warm clothing are strongly recommended for any event here.
Which teams and events use Laugardalsvöllur?
Primarily, it’s home to Iceland’s national football teams (men’s, women’s, and youth squads) . They play 3–5 home matches here most years (World Cup or Euro qualifiers, friendlies, etc.). The stadium also hosts the annual Icelandic Cup finals and other big domestic fixtures. Occasionally the local Reykjavík club *Fram* plays home matches at Laugardalsvöllur . Outside football, it’s used for large concerts, community sports gatherings, and historically it even hosted athletics meets (it had a running track under the stands until 2007 ). Going forward it will be solely a football venue once renovated .
When was Laugardalsvöllur first opened and has it been renovated?
Construction began in the late 1940s, and the first Iceland international match there was in 1957. The official opening ceremony took place on 17 June 1959 . Since then it has been upgraded several times: a new east stand was added in 1997, and both stands were expanded/modernized in the mid-2000s (completed 2007). In 2024–25 the stadium is undergoing a major rebuild (improving seating, adding VIP areas, windshield heating) to meet the latest international standards .
What is the record attendance at Laugardalsvöllur?
For football, the record is **20,204** spectators (set in a 2004 friendly when Iceland beat Italy) . The venue has seen even larger crowds for concerts: for example Guns N’ Roses drew about 25,000 in 2018 . Generally, the maximum possible capacity with pitch standing is on the order of 25–28 thousand .
What amenities are within walking distance of the stadium?
Right next to Laugardalsvöllur are Reykjavik’s sports pool (Laugardalslaug), botanical gardens, and Reykjavik Zoo/Family Park – all worth visiting. For food and drink, Suðurlandsbraut road (just outside) has several cafés and restaurants, such as vegetarian-friendly *Gló* and bistros like *Vox Bar*, *Flóran Café* or *Múlakaffi* . Hotel options are mainly in downtown Reykjavík (2–3 km away), with the nearest lodging being Hotel Cabin (about 700m to the south ). If you arrive early, downtown guesthouses and eateries are an easy 30-minute walking distance or a short bus ride.
Is Laugardalsvöllur wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Each main stand has wheelchair-accessible seating areas at the front or back of a section (with companion seats). Ramps and handrails lead to the lower rows. The West Stand has an elevator to upper levels (primarily a staff lift, but it can be used for accessibility). Accessible restrooms are provided on the concourse near the main stands. There are also disabled parking spaces outside. If you need help, contact the stadium staff beforehand or on arrival – they’re used to accommodating wheelchair users at big games.
Can children attend events at Laugardalsvöllur?
Absolutely. Football matches at Laugardalsvöllur are family-friendly and children of all ages are welcome. Kids’ tickets (often defined as under-16 or under-12) usually cost significantly less. For evening concerts, if it’s a loud rock show, parents often bring ear protection for little ones. There is no strict minimum age for entry at most events, but check the specific event info (some late-night concerts might advise parental discretion). The stadium has baby-changing facilities in the restrooms for infants.
