Discover the top 5 rooftop bars in Reykjavik, Iceland. If you're looking for a drink with a view, whether it's champagne by the fire or a cold beer in the chilly summer air (hopefully still a few degrees warmer than the beer), these are the rooftops worth the climb!
Let's be honest, Reykjavik isn't exactly known for rooftop culture. With the wind, sideways rain, and winters that make even locals think twice about leaving the house, it's impressive that there are rooftop bars in Iceland at all. But that's what makes the few that do exist all the more special.
While there are plenty of great bars in Reykjavik, the rooftops are few. Still, we have visited the lot and found five favorites. Sweeping views over the bay, cozy interiors built for stormy nights, and wraparound terraces that come alive under the midnight sun seem to be the winning formula.
So, whether you're already on your way back from one of your day tours around Iceland, mid-argument with your partner about where to go tonight—or you're a type A planner, still fine-tuning your vacation plans in Iceland—this top list is for you.
But first, don't forget—as a Guide to Iceland customer, you get exclusive discounts at selected bars and restaurants through the VIP Club. If you thought beer for 1,000 ISK (approx. 8 USD) was unheard of, you might be pleasantly surprised.
- Discover the Ultimate Guide to Reykjavik's Nightlife
- See also: Top 25 Best Restaurants in Reykjavik
5. Perlan
Perlan isn't a rooftop bar in the traditional sense, but it earns a place on this list for one reason: the view. Set high above Reykjavik on Oskjuhlid Hill, the building's glass dome offers one of the best elevated panoramas in the city, indoors and in any season.
The restaurant, cafe, and bar on the fifth floor all share the same sweeping outlook. Whether you're ordering coffee, a cocktail, or a full meal, you'll sit behind floor-to-ceiling glass with direct views of Hallgrimskirkja Church, the harbor, and the surrounding mountains.
It’s a calm, wind-free alternative to traditional rooftop terraces. You won’t find loud music or nightlife here, but if your idea of a rooftop experience is a drink in a peaceful setting with a view, Perlan delivers.
There's also a homemade ice cream shop one floor down. In addition, the building houses the Wonders of Iceland Exhibition, which features an indoor ice cave. Outside, a wraparound outdoor observation deck offers 360-degree views.
Google rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Address: Oskjuhlid, 105 Reykjavik, Iceland
Opening hours: Bar: 11:30–21:00, Restaurant: 11:30–18:00, Cafe: 10:00–18:00, Ice Cream Parlour: 12:00–21:00, Exhibitions & Observation Deck: 09:00–21:00, Building: 09:00–22:00
Instagram: @perlanmuseumiceland
4. Loft HI Hostel Bar
Loft Hostel Bar is one of Reykjavik's most relaxed rooftop hangouts. Tucked just above Laugavegur Street on the fourth floor of HI Loft Hostel, it offers one of the few open-air terraces in the city center.
The rooftop view stretches over colorful buildings and the busy street below. It's small but inviting, with wooden decking, long benches, and string lights that create a cozy vibe even when it's chilly outside.
Inside, the atmosphere is welcoming and no-frills. Expect mismatched furniture, shelves of board games, and a mix of travelers and locals lounging with laptops by day and beers by night.
The bar keeps things simple: Icelandic beer on tap, decent house wines, and rotating cocktails like gin spritzes and whiskey sours. Happy hour runs daily, and Wednesdays are known for discounted wine.
Loft regularly hosts live music, language exchanges, and themed events like quiz nights and karaoke. If you're looking for a laid-back rooftop with a social vibe and good value, this is a great pick.
Google rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Address: Bankastraeti 7, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
Opening hours: Daily 08:00–23:00 (Happy Hour 15:00–19:00, Wine Wednesday all day)
Instagram: @loftreykjavik
3. Petersen Svitan
Petersen Svitan is one of Reykjavik's most atmospheric rooftop bars, set atop the Gamla Bio Concert Hall on Ingolfsstraeti Street. It takes its name from Peter Petersen, the cinema's original projectionist, and still carries the vintage charm of the early 20th century.
The space blends retro flair with modern Reykjavik cool. Inside, you'll find velvet chairs, leather couches, dim lighting, and small tables that invite conversation. The real magic, though, is outside.
The rooftop terrace wraps around the building, offering a near 360-degree view over the city center, with Hallgrimskirkja Church in the background.
In summer, this place comes alive with the midnight sun. Locals and travelers fill the rooftop, sipping cocktails and soaking in golden-hour views. But even in spring and autumn, blankets and patio heaters keep the vibe cozy.
Drinks lean classic: think whisky sours, espresso martinis, and gin & tonics made with Icelandic gin, alongside a curated selection of beer and wine. The food is casual and satisfying, with flatbreads, burgers, and generous bowls of fries made for sharing.
The atmosphere shifts depending on the night. Midweek can feel low-key and intimate, while Fridays and Saturdays bring more energy, often with live DJs or themed events. Whether you're there for a quiet drink or a social evening with a view, Petersen Svitan delivers a distinctly Reykjavik rooftop experience.
Google rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars
Address: Ingolfsstraeti 2a, 3rd floor, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
Opening hours: Wednesday–Thursday 16:00–01:00, Friday–Saturday 16:00–03:00, closed Sunday–Tuesday
Instagram: @petersensvitan
2. THE ROOF
THE ROOF is one of Reykjavik's most stylish rooftop bars, perched on the seventh floor of the Reykjavik EDITION Hotel. From here, you get an elevated view of the harbor, Harpa Concert Hall, Mount Esja, and the North Atlantic. On clear nights, you might even catch a glimpse of the northern lights from your seat.
Unlike some rooftop spots that rely on novelty, THE ROOF delivers atmosphere and quality in equal measure. The bar's sleek interior, with dark wood, soft lighting, and minimalist design, keeps the focus on the view. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors open to a wraparound terrace, which fills with locals and visitors during the summer.
Inside, it's warm and intimate—a great choice even in winter. There's a wood-burning fireplace, cozy seating, and ambient music that transitions to DJ sets on weekends. It's not a party bar, but there's a definite energy once the evening settles in.
The drinks list offers refined cocktails and high-end spirits, with ingredients that nod to Icelandic flavors. Local beers and wine are available too, but this is the place to try something a bit more elevated. Light food options, such as Icelandic cheeses and marinated seafood, pair well with slow sips and good conversation.
Despite its upscale look, the atmosphere is welcoming. Service is attentive without being overbearing, and the crowd is a mix of locals celebrating something special and visitors making the most of their night in the city.
Google rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
Address: Austurbakki 2 (Bryggjugata 6), 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
Opening hours: Wednesday–Thursday & Sunday 18:00–24:00, Friday–Saturday 18:00–01:00, closed Monday–Tuesday
Instagram: @editionreykjavik
1. SKY Restaurant & Bar
SKY Restaurant & Bar is one of the most dependable rooftop spots in Reykjavik. Perched on the eighth floor of Center Hotels Arnarhvoll, it offers sweeping views over Faxafloi Bay, Harpa Concert Hall, and the distant Mount Esja.
Thanks to its fully enclosed design, SKY is ideal no matter the season. In winter, you can watch snowfall drift across the harbor from the warmth of your seat. In summer, the space glows with natural light as the midnight sun hovers on the horizon.
The bar features a clean, Scandinavian interior with soft lighting and minimalist furnishings. There's also a small veranda if the weather's calm enough for a step outside.
Cocktails are a highlight here. Local favorites include the Gin Basil Smash and the Lady Marmalade, which uses Icelandic orange marmalade for a citrusy twist. There's also a decent wine list, local beers, and alcohol-free options.
If you're hungry, snack plates are available, like Icelandic cheeses, cured meats, olives, or even a bowl of spicy crackers. It's the perfect way to ease into the evening or wind down after a day of sightseeing.
Google rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
Address: Ingolfsstraeti 1, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
Opening hours: Monday–Wednesday 15:00–23:00, Thursday–Sunday 15:00–00:00
Instagram: @skyreykjavik
Beyond the Rooftops: Best Places To Grab a Drink in Reykjavik
Reykjavik's rooftop bars offer sweeping views, but the city's nightlife stretches well beyond the skyline. No matter if you’re in the mood for a low-key pint, a craft beer tasting, or dancing into the early hours, there's a spot waiting for you.
Check out our Reykjavik nightlife guide for an overview of the city's best bars, clubs, and late-night culture. If you'd rather let someone else plan the route, join a Reykjavik bar crawl and hop between venues with a local guide.
If you're timing your night around deals, the guide to Reykjavik's cheapest bars & happy hours helps you make the most of every krona. Craft beer fans can head straight to the best craft beer bars in Reykjavik for the best Icelandic brews.
Those in search of something more refined can slip into one of the bars featured in the best cocktail bars in Reykjavik, where skilled bartenders shake up inventive drinks with local ingredients.
No matter the season, Reykjavik always has a place for a drink—indoors, outdoors, or somewhere in between.
What's your favorite rooftop bar in Reykjavik? Which one are you most excited to check out? Leave a comment below and let us know where you'd go for great views and a good drink!
