Reykjavik Open

One of chess history's great open tournaments, held annually in Iceland

The Reykjavik Open is one of the most storied open chess tournaments in the world, held annually in Reykjavik, Iceland. The tournament takes place at the Harpa Concert Hall, a stunning waterfront venue that has become synonymous with the event. In 2026, over 430 players descended on Iceland for the competition.

Iceland has a special place in chess history thanks to the 1972 Fischer-Spassky match, and the Reykjavik Open carries that tradition forward. The tournament regularly attracts a mix of grandmasters, international masters, and ambitious amateurs from dozens of countries, making it one of the most internationally diverse open events on the calendar.

Beyond the main tournament, the event typically includes blitz side events, social gatherings, and opportunities to explore Reykjavik itself, turning the trip into a chess vacation. The combination of strong competition, a world-class venue, and Iceland's unique landscape makes it a bucket-list event for many chess players.

The Reykjavik Open has been running since 1964, making it one of the oldest continuously held open tournaments in Europe. Its longevity and prestige continue to draw strong fields year after year.