Reykjavik: Beer and Booze Tour

If you’re heading to Reykjavík and enjoy a good drink, this Beer and Booze Tour offers a lively, authentic way to explore the city’s vibrant drinking culture while sampling some of Iceland’s best craft beers and spirits. With a top-rated score of 4.9 out of 5 based on 57 reviews, this tour combines education, local flavor, and fun, all packed into just 2.5 hours.

What truly makes this experience stand out is the chance to taste 10 unique Icelandic craft beers, many of which are exclusive to the country, alongside some delicious local schnaps and spirits. Plus, the tour takes you to three carefully chosen bars, each with its own distinct vibe. The small group sizes and expert guides make it feel personal and engaging.

One thing to consider is that this tour is strictly for those aged 20 and over, with no children or infants allowed. Also, it doesn’t include hotel pickup or food, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry or staying outside the city center.

This tour is ideal for beer enthusiasts, curious travelers eager to learn about Iceland’s drinking history, or anyone looking to kick off an evening in Reykjavík with a fun and authentic local experience.

• Authentic Icelandic Beers and Spirits: Taste 10 craft beers or 5 different schnaps, most of which are exclusive to Iceland.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Kristjan and Asthor are praised for their friendliness, humor, and deep knowledge of Icelandic beer and culture.
• Small Groups: Personalized experience with fewer people, allowing for better conversation and insights.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Iceland’s unusual beer history, including the 74-year ban and the rise of microbreweries.
• Multiple Bar Visits: Experience three distinct venues, each offering a different atmosphere and selection.
• Great Value: For around $117, you get a well-rounded, informative, and fun evening of drinks, stories, and local flavor.

First Impressions and Meeting Point

Starting outside Hlöllabátar, a popular sandwich shop facing Ingólfstorg Square, the meeting spot is comfortably located in the heart of Reykjavik. With benches, tables, and a covered area, it’s a practical and welcoming spot, especially considering Iceland’s unpredictable weather. Guides wear light blue jackets emblazoned with Your Friend in Reykjavik, making them easy to spot.

From the reviews, it’s clear this tour usually attracts friendly, energetic guides like Kristjan and Asthor, who are lauded for their entertaining, knowledgeable, and approachable styles. Expect to start with a quick guided walk through the city center, setting the scene for an evening full of stories and sips.

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

1. Ingólfur Square & Guided Walk (10 minutes)

The tour kicks off with a short stroll—an ideal way to get your bearings in Reykjavik. This initial walk is more than just a warm-up; it sets a friendly tone for the evening. Guides like Asthor share snippets about the city’s history and culture, making the walk both educational and fun.

2. Skúli Craft Bar (1 hour)

Your first bar visit is to Skúli Craft Bar, an iconic Reykjavik spot known for its impressive selection of Icelandic beers and whiskey. Here, you might find yourself sampling a beer you won’t find anywhere else, as well as tasting some whiskey. The reviews mention how guides like Kristjan excel at sharing interesting stories about each brew, making each sip more meaningful.

This stop is often praised for its distinctive atmosphere and fantastic beer selection, which immediately immerses you in Iceland’s microbrew scene. The small group size allows you to chat comfortably, and the guide’s insights make it a highlight of the tour.

3. Session Craft Bar (45 minutes)

Next, the group heads to Session Craft Bar, a cozy venue with a relaxed vibe that’s perfect for sampling more beers. Here, you’ll likely get a chance to try several Icelandic craft beers, perhaps a flight of IPAs or lighter options. Reviewers have appreciated how guides cater to different tastes, including lighter or sweeter beers for those less keen on hoppy or bitter brews.

4. Ölstofa (45 minutes)

The final stop is at Ölstofa, another well-loved Reykjavik bar with a lively atmosphere. This is often considered the most memorable part, with some reviewers mentioning it had a great vibe and selection. It’s an excellent place to relax, chat more, and soak in the local drinking culture.

5. Drop-off Locations

After the bar visits, the tour concludes with drop-offs at Ölstofa and Bastarður Brew Pub, making it easy to continue exploring or head back to your accommodation.

Tasting and Cultural Insights

The tastings are a core part of this experience. You’ll sample 10 craft beers or 5 schnaps and spirits, giving you a taste of Iceland’s brewing diversity. Many reviewers mention how the beers are delicious and unique, with some guides even presenting new craft beers not yet available on the market.

The tour also covers Iceland’s history with alcohol, including the fact that beer was banned for 74 years—an amusing and intriguing story that adds context to Iceland’s modern drinking culture. Guides are often praised for their entertaining storytelling, making the history accessible and engaging.

Value for Money

Considering the price of $117 per person, the tour offers excellent value. You get around 10 samples of craft beer or spirits, plus the experience of visiting three different venues, each with its own atmosphere. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the knowledge shared by guides elevates the experience from a simple pub crawl to an educational outing.

Many reviewers highlight how this tour is a great way to learn about Icelandic culture, enjoy quality drinks, and meet fellow travelers. It’s an ideal starter activity to set the tone for your Reykjavik visit or as a fun prelude to an evening out.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Remember, all drinks are included, but food isn’t. If you’re hungry, it’s best to eat beforehand or plan for a meal afterward.
• Wear layers—weather in Iceland can change quickly, especially if you’re walking outdoors between stops.
• The tour is strictly for those aged 20 and over, with no children allowed. Pregnant travelers and those under 20 should look for alternative experiences.
• It’s helpful to bring your passport or ID as proof of age.

Authenticity and Real Experiences

Based on reviews, guides like Kristjan and Asthor make a difference, blending knowledge with entertainment. Guests often mention how guides share stories about Reykjavik’s history and local drinking customs, making the experience more meaningful.

Participants also praise the variety of beers—from classic Icelandic microbrews to innovative new options—and the opportunity to try specialty spirits like schnaps, which adds a layer of depth for spirit enthusiasts.

This experience is perfect if you’re seeking a fun, relaxed way to get a feel for Reykjavik’s local nightlife and culture. It’s particularly suited for beer lovers, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a lively introduction to Iceland’s brewing scene. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides make it ideal for travelers who like engaging conversations and insider tips.

It’s less suitable for those who don’t consume alcohol or prefer a more structured or food-included tour. Also, if you’re after a quick overview of Icelandic history or nature-centric activities, this tour might not be the best fit.

The Reykjavik Beer and Booze Tour offers an engaging, authentic taste of Iceland’s craft beer scene, paired with stories that illuminate the country’s quirky drinking history. It’s a well-balanced experience that combines education, fun, and excellent value for money, especially given the quality of the guides and the carefully curated bars.

Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or just someone looking to enjoy Reykjavik’s lively social scene, this tour provides a memorable way to start your evening or break the ice with fellow travelers. The small group size means you’ll get plenty of personalized attention, and the variety of beers ensures there’s something for all.

If you’re after a lively, informative, and delicious introduction to Icelandic drinking culture, this tour is a fantastic choice and likely to be a highlight of your trip.

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll meet directly at the designated starting point outside Hlöllabátar in Reykjavik.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a great short activity that fits easily into your itinerary.

Can I join if I’m not a big drinker?
Yes, guides are known for accommodating different tastes and might suggest lighter or sweeter options if you’re not a big beer drinker. It’s a social experience more than just about drinking.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, the tour is only for those aged 20 and over, per Icelandic law. No infants or children can participate.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card to prove your age, and wear layers to stay comfortable in Iceland’s variable weather.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a flexible option if your plans change.

This Reykjavik Beer and Booze Tour combines the best of local culture, craft beverages, and lively storytelling—perfect for anyone eager to enjoy Iceland’s spirited side while exploring the city’s vibrant bar scene.