10 Best Craft Beer Bars in Reykjavik

Discover the best craft beer bars in Reykjavik, from underground microbars to lively beer gardens pouring Icelandic brews. This guide highlights the top spots for local and international craft beer, perfect for a weekend trip or a night out in the city.

Reykjavik has become a leading destination for craft beer, with breweries, taprooms, and bars fueling its growing scene. The nightlife in the city center ranges from cozy pubs to lively brewpubs, offering hazy IPAs, crisp lagers, and seasonal small-batch brews on tap.

As you explore the best bars in Reykjavik, don’t miss out on the growing number of venues that specialize in Icelandic craft beer. Many are within walking distance in the 101 district, so you can plan your own beer crawl with ease.

Guide to Iceland customers can check the VIP Club for exclusive deals at select bars and restaurants across the country. You might also want to explore food and drink tours or find a great place to stay in Reykjavik nearby to keep your evening plans convenient.

This guide features the 10 best craft beer bars in Reykjavik, including local favorites, hidden gems, and partner venues that deserve a spot at the top of your list.

Key Takeaways

• Reykjavik has a compact and walkable craft beer scene, with many of the best bars clustered in the 101 city center, making it easy to visit several spots in one evening.

• Icelandic craft beer is widely available, with many bars focusing on local breweries, rotating taps, and seasonal small-batch releases.

• The city’s beer bars range from quiet microbars and taprooms to lively brewpubs with food, music, and social atmospheres.

• Happy hour is the best time to visit for lower prices, usually between late afternoon and early evening, especially for budget-conscious travelers.

• Guided beer and food tours provide additional context on Icelandic brewing culture and offer a relaxed way to sample local beers with expert insight.

10. Olstofa Kormaks og Skjaldar

Photo from Olstofa Kormaks og Skjaldar Facebook page. No edits made.

Olstofa Kormaks og Skjaldar is located on Vegamotastigur in central Reykjavik, just off Laekjargata and within easy walking distance of Ingolfstorg Square and most downtown hotels. Its central location makes it a convenient stop while exploring the city center on foot.

The atmosphere is warm and traditional, with a cozy neighborhood pub feel. It’s a relaxed place where people can talk comfortably and enjoy a drink. The bar attracts both locals and visitors who prefer a calm setting without loud music.

Olstofa Kormaks og Skjaldar focuses on Icelandic beer, mainly from local breweries. The selection includes lagers, ales, and seasonal beers, and the staff are happy to help you choose based on what you like.

Practical Info

• Location: Vegamotastigur 4, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland

• How to get there: Short walk from Ingolfstorg Square; walkable from most central hotels

• Hours: Monday–Sunday, typically afternoon until late evening

• Happy Hour: Varies by day

• Accessibility: Limited accessibility due to the interior layout

• Reservation: Not required

9. RVK Brewing Company

Just outside the busy city center, RVK Brewing Co. stands out as one of Reykjavik’s only fully independent craft breweries. All the beer is brewed on-site, and it’s a great stop for anyone who wants to try something local. It’s a short walk from downtown and well worth the detour.

The taproom has a relaxed feel with long tables, board games, and occasional live music. It draws both locals and visitors interested in craft beer in Reykjavik and supports a small, independent brewery. The atmosphere is friendly and unpretentious, making it a great place to hang out and try something new.

You’ll find a variety of beer styles on tap, including crisp lagers, pale ales, sours, and seasonal experiments. The staff are passionate about what they do and happy to talk about the brewing process or help you find a favorite.

Practical Info

• Location: Skipholt 33, 105 Reykjavik, Iceland

• How to get there: 15 to 20 minute walk from downtown; also accessible by bus or taxi

• Hours: Open evenings, usually Thursday through Saturday (check current schedule)

• Happy Hour: No fixed happy hour

• Accessibility: Ground-level entrance

• Reservation: Not required

8. Einstok Bar Reykjavik

Photo from Einstok Bar Reykjavik Instagram. No edits made.

Along Laugavegur, Reykjavik’s main shopping street, Einstok Bar Reykjavik offers a convenient stop for travelers staying in the city center. Many major sights are within walking distance.

The bar has a modern yet cozy design with wooden and rustic elements, large windows, and a relaxed layout that suits both groups and solo visitors. The atmosphere stays social without feeling overwhelming, which makes it a comfortable place to spend time at any hour of the day.

Einstok Bar specializes in beers from the Icelandic Einstok brewery. The tap list usually includes favorites such as Arctic Pale Ale, Toasted Porter, White Ale, and seasonal releases, with around 10 taps in total. Food options are limited, with light snacks available at most.

Practical Info

• Address: Laugavegur 10, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland

• How to get there: Located on Laugavegur; walkable from Harpa and central hotels

• Hours: Open daily from noon to late evening

• Happy Hour: Yes, usually 4:00 to 7:00 pm

• Accessibility: Street-level entrance

• Reservation: Not required

7. Reykjavik Beer Garden (Bjorgardurinn)

Reykjavik Beer Garden, known locally as Bjorgardurinn, is a warm and welcoming spot connected to the Fosshotel Reykjavik. It’s a great choice if you’re staying nearby or want to pair quality beer with hearty Icelandic food in a laid-back setting.

The bar offers around 20 beers on tap, including Icelandic craft options and European imports. Staff are happy to suggest pairings with the food menu, which features sausages, schnitzels, and other comfort dishes. The cozy, wood-accented interior gives it a relaxed, Central European feel without trying too hard.

It’s popular with both hotel guests and locals, especially in the early evening. While not the trendiest venue in town, it’s a reliable place for good food, craft beer in Reykjavik, and a quiet sit-down experience.

Practical Info

• Location: Fosshotel Reykjavik, Thorunnartun 1, 105 Reykjavik

• How to get there: 10 to 15 minute walk from downtown or accessible by bus

• Hours: Open daily from the afternoon to late evening

• Happy Hour: Yes – usually in the early evening

• Accessibility: Fully accessible entrance via the hotel lobby

• Reservation: Not required, but recommended for dinner hours

6. MicroBar

MicroBar is one of Reykjavik’s original craft beer bars and remains a favorite for its wide and frequently changing tap list. Located on Laugavegur, it’s easy to include in a walk through the city center and works well as a casual stop between shops, cafes, or dinner plans.

Despite its name, the beer selection is anything but small. The bar usually offers around 10 rotating taps, with a mix of Icelandic craft beers and international options, including styles that are harder to find elsewhere. Beer flights are available, which makes it easy to sample several taps in one visit.

The atmosphere is relaxed and no-frills, with a crowd of curious travelers and local beer fans. This is not a spot for loud music or large groups. The focus stays on good beer, conversation, and exploring what’s new on tap.

Practical Info

• Location: Laugavegur 86, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland

• How to get there: Located on Laugavegur; walkable from central hotels and bus stops

• Hours: Sunday–Wednesday: 3:00 pm to 12:00 am, Thursday–Saturday: 3:00 pm to 1:00 am

• Happy Hour: None

• Accessibility: Entrance has a small step; tight space inside

• Reservation: Not required

5. Ægir 220 Taproom

Located in Hafnarfjordur, just south of Reykjavik, Ægir Taproom 220 is a destination worth the short trip. This suburban taproom is part of the Ægir brewing family and offers a relaxed, modern space to try Icelandic craft beer away from the city crowds.

The taproom serves a strong lineup of Ægir brews, including IPAs, pale ales, lagers, and seasonal releases. The space is large, bright, and ideal for groups or casual dinners, with a full food menu featuring burgers, wings, and other pub-style dishes.

Ægir 220 draws a mix of locals, families, and beer fans looking for a more laid-back vibe outside the city center. It’s easy to reach by car or bus, and a good stop if you're exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula or staying in nearby suburbs.

Practical Info

• Location: Strandgata 90, 220 Hafnarfjordur, Iceland

• How to get there: 15 to 20 minutes by car or bus from downtown Reykjavik

• Hours: Open daily, usually from late afternoon to evening

• Happy Hour: Yes – check in-bar for details

• Accessibility: Street-level entrance, step-free

• Reservation: Not required

4. Bastard Brew & Food

Bastard Brew & Food is one of the most energetic craft beer bars in Reykjavik, combining a working brewery, full restaurant, and party-friendly vibe under one roof. Located just off Laugavegur, it’s easy to find and hard to forget thanks to bold decor, upbeat music, and a steady buzz of conversation.

The bar serves its own house-brewed beers, including Bastard’s popular IPA and rotating seasonal styles. There’s also a full menu of cocktails, burgers, tacos, and loaded fries, making it a great option for dinner and drinks in one stop.

Bastard is popular with locals, tourists, and groups looking for a social night out. It can get busy on weekends, but the atmosphere stays friendly and fun. A detailed Bastard Brew & Food review is available for more information.

Practical Info

• Location: Vegamotastigur 4, 101 Reykjavik

• How to get there: Just off Laugavegur, a 5-minute walk from major downtown spots

• Hours: Monday–Friday: 11:45 am to 1:00 am, Saturday–Sunday: 12:00 pm to 1:00 am

• Happy Hour: Yes – daily deals on beer and select cocktails

• Accessibility: Street-level entrance with step-free access

• Reservation: Recommended for dinner hours or groups

3. Lemmy

Lemmy is a bold and edgy bar that blends heavy metal attitude with a strong tap list. Named after the iconic Motorhead frontman, this spot is all about big personality with loud music, dark interiors, and a rebellious spirit that sets it apart from more polished venues.

Despite the rock theme, Lemmy takes its beer seriously. You’ll find a rotating selection of craft beers on tap, including styles from local breweries like Malbygg and Lady Brewery. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and always ready to recommend something based on your taste.

It’s a popular spot with locals, musicians, and beer fans who prefer bars with personality. A detailed review of Lemmy is available for more insight into the beer selection and atmosphere.

Practical Info

• Location: Austurstraeti 20, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland

• How to get there: Central downtown location, short walk from Austurvollur Square

• Hours: Open daily from the afternoon to late night

• Happy Hour: Yes – check in-bar or social media for daily deals

• Accessibility: Entrance is street level, but may have dim lighting inside

• Reservation: Not required

2. Ægir Taproom 101

Ægir Taproom 101 brings the spirit of Nordic brewing right into the heart of Reykjavik. Inspired by the Norse god of the sea and brewed by the team behind the original Ægir in Norway, this stylish bar offers a cozy, wood-accented space with a strong focus on craft and culture.

The tap list includes both Norwegian and Icelandic beers, with styles ranging from crisp lagers to rich stouts and hop-forward IPAs. You’ll also find a well-paired food menu with burgers, fish and chips, and bar snacks, making it ideal for a casual dinner or relaxed evening out.

The crowd here is a mix of travelers and locals looking for a more refined experience at a craft beer bar in Reykjavik, without losing the warmth of a classic pub. It’s easy to find and well-located for anyone staying in the city center.

Practical Info

• Location: Laugavegur 2, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland

• How to get there: 5-minute walk from Harpa and major downtown hotels

• Hours: Open daily from early afternoon to late evening

• Happy Hour: Yes – ask staff for current deals

• Accessibility: Step-free entrance and indoor seating

• Reservation: Not required, but available for groups

1. Skuli Craft Bar

Skuli Craft Bar has earned a reputation as one of the best places for craft beer in Reykjavik. Centrally located near Austurvollur Square, it combines a cozy, pub-like atmosphere with one of the most carefully curated beer selections in the city.

The tap list features both Icelandic and international craft brews, with a strong focus on quality and variety. Expect rotating IPAs, sours, stouts, and seasonal releases, often including hard-to-find beers from local breweries like Borg and Malbygg. Staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and happy to offer samples or recommendations.

Popular with locals, beer geeks, and curious travelers, Skúli strikes the perfect balance between laid-back and refined. It’s an easy place to spend a quiet afternoon or start off a night in the city’s bar scene.

Practical Info

• Location: Adalstraeti 9, 101 Reykjavik

• How to get there: 2-minute walk from Austurvollur Square or the Reykjavik Cathedral

• Hours: Open daily from mid-afternoon to late

• Happy Hour: Yes – typically early evening

• Accessibility: Street-level entrance, limited seating indoors

• Reservation: Not required

Best Beer Tours in Reykjavik

For travelers who want to explore Icelandic beer beyond individual bars, guided beer and food tours in Iceland offer an easy way to sample local brews. Below are the top 3 beer experiences, each combining tastings with local insight and a relaxed social atmosphere.

3. Authentic Icelandic Food & Beer Tasting Tour – A guided walking tour that pairs traditional Icelandic dishes with locally brewed beer. The route covers central Reykjavik, with tastings at selected restaurants and specialty spots, plus insights into local food culture and craft brewing.

2. Appetizing 3-Hour Food and Beer Walk Tour – A small-group walking tour that combines Icelandic food traditions with local craft beer tastings. The three-hour route includes multiple food stops, classic dishes, and beer samples, along with insights into Reykjavik’s history and culture.

1. Reykjavik Beer & Schnapps Guided Walking Tour – This evening walking tour visits three bars in central Reykjavik and includes tastings of Icelandic craft beer or schnapps. Along the way, the guide shares stories about local drinking culture and beer history.

FAQs for Craft Beer Bars in Reykjavik

If you're planning a night out in Reykjavik or exploring the local beer scene, these quick answers cover common traveler questions to help you enjoy the city’s bars with confidence.

What are the typical opening hours for bars in Reykjavik?

Most bars in downtown Reykjavik open in the late morning or afternoon and close around 1:00 AM on weeknights. If you’re out mid-week, expect a quieter scene with fewer crowds and earlier closing times.

On Fridays and Saturdays, many bars stay open until 3:00 AM, and some nightclubs even push closing time to 4:00 or 5:00 AM. Weekend nights are much livelier and run much later.

Is tipping expected at bars in Iceland?

Tipping isn’t required or expected in Icelandic bars, as service charges are included in the price. Locals usually don’t tip for drinks, and you can round up or leave a small amount for exceptional service. Bartenders won’t expect it.

What is the legal drinking age in Reykjavik (and will I need ID)?

The legal drinking age in Iceland is 20. Bars and liquor stores will not serve anyone younger. If you appear under 25, expect to show ID. A passport or driver’s license is required. Age 18 is not enough, even if it is in other countries.

How much does a beer cost in Reykjavik?

Alcohol in Iceland is expensive due to high taxes. In Reykjavik, a 0.5 L craft beer usually costs 1,200–1,500 ISK ($9–12) and more for specialty brews. During happy hour, prices often drop to around 800–900 ISK.

When is the best time to visit craft beer bars in Reykjavik?

For budget-conscious travelers, happy hour is the best time, usually between 4 PM and 7 PM, when beer prices are lower and crowds are thinner. Weeknights are quieter, and many bars close by 1 AM, making them ideal for relaxed drinks.

If you want a livelier atmosphere, weekends are best. Locals usually head out late, with bars busiest from around midnight onward on Fridays and Saturdays. Many venues stay open until 3 AM or later, offering a more energetic nightlife scene.

Can I use credit cards at Reykjavik bars, or do I need cash?

You rarely need cash for a night out in Reykjavik. Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, even for small purchases like a single beer. Contactless payment is common, and most bars and restaurants accept cards.

Is there a dress code or entrance fee for bars in Reykjavik?

Most bars and pubs do not charge a cover fee, so you can move between places freely unless a special event or live band is on. Entry is usually straightforward, making it easy to explore Reykjavik’s nightlife without extra costs.

Dress codes are relaxed and casual but stylish. Locals often wear jeans, boots, and jackets, especially in colder months. Only a few upscale clubs expect a smarter look, but neat and comfortable clothing is usually enough.

Your Guide to Craft Beer Bars in Reykjavik

Reykjavik’s craft beer scene offers something for every taste, from relaxed microbars to lively taprooms near the harbor. With many top beer bars clustered in the city center, it’s easy to explore local brews on foot and shape your own evening plans.

If you want to enjoy quality beer without overspending, timing your visit around happy hour helps you where to find the best-value deals. Learning about Beer Day in Iceland also adds cultural context to the country’s modern brewing scene.

For a deeper experience, guided brewery visits offer local insight through hands-on experiences and fresh pours. These experiences combine storytelling and craftsmanship, giving travelers a clearer understanding of Icelandic beer culture beyond casual bar hopping.

Have you visited any of Reykjavik’s craft beer bars or discovered a favorite spot of your own? Share your recommendations in the comments and help fellow travelers find the best places to enjoy Icelandic craft beer in the city.