Reykjavik Beer & Booze Tour

Trying to get a taste of Reykjavik’s lively nightlife and unique drinking culture? The Reykjavik Beer & Booze Tour offers an engaging way to discover Iceland’s rich brewing heritage, sample local beverages, and meet fellow travelers. With a stellar 5.0-star rating from 149 reviews, this small-group tour combines history, humor, and a decent amount of drinking — all in just about two and a half hours.

What really makes this experience stand out is the guide’s deep knowledge paired with a friendly, conversational style. Plus, visiting some of Reykjavik’s top bars—especially ones you might not stumble across on your own—adds an element of discovery. The only thing to keep in mind is that it’s a lively, social tour designed for those over 20 who enjoy a good drink and engaging stories. If you’re into local craft beers or spirits and want an authentic, fun night out, this tour is likely to be a hit.

However, a possible consideration is the tour’s reliance on alcohol, which might not suit everyone. Also, since it’s a small-group experience, you’ll want to book well in advance—most travelers plan around 59 days ahead. Overall, it’s an excellent mix of education and entertainment, perfect for beer lovers, history buffs, or anyone wanting a memorable Reykjavik night.

Key Points

• Authentic Icelandic Experience: Dive into the local beer and spirit scene, learning about Iceland’s unique alcohol history.
• Small Group Setting: Ensures personalized attention and plenty of interaction with the guide.
• Diverse Tasting Opportunities: Sample a range of Icelandic craft beers and snaps, some exclusive or award-winning.
• Fun, Informative Guides: Guides like Bo, Oli, and Kris are praised for their knowledge, humor, and friendliness.
• Perfect for Night Owls: The evening timing leaves your day free for other adventures.
• Great Value: Includes multiple tastings, a local guide, and an intimate atmosphere for $115.

A Deep Dive into the Reykjavik Beer & Booze Tour

Introduction to the Experience

We’re reviewing a tour that promises a spirited evening exploring Reykjavik’s beer and spirits scene, and the reviews suggest it lives up to the hype. For just over $115, you get around two and a half hours of tastings, stories, and socializing, making it an accessible way to spend an evening. What stands out most is the high praise from previous travelers—most give a perfect 5-star rating, often highlighting their guides’ charisma and depth of knowledge.

This tour is especially suited for those who enjoy trying new drinks, learning about local culture, and making new friends in a relaxed environment. The small group size (capped at 12) means plenty of interaction, and the choice of venues emphasizes authenticity and quality. The tour’s structure—visiting three different bars with specific focuses—means you’ll get a well-rounded taste of Reykjavik’s beverage scene.

One thing to consider is that it’s an evening activity. If you prefer daytime adventures or are not a big drinker, this might not be your first pick. But for those keen on nightlife, craft beers, and learning quirky facts about Iceland’s alcohol bans and brewing history, this tour hits many sweet spots.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

Authentic Icelandic Beverages: You’ll sample a variety of Icelandic craft beers and snaps, including some award-winning options and products you might not find elsewhere. The inclusion of unique brews like a beer that ended a 74-year ban adds to the experience.

Expert, Entertaining Guides: Reviews consistently mention guides like Bo, Oli, and Kris for their knowledge, humor, and friendliness. They’re not just pouring drinks—they’re sharing stories and trivia that make the night memorable.

Small Group Vibe: With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour fosters a relaxed, conversational atmosphere. Past guests note that this setup encourages questions, interaction, and even new friendships.

Learning the Icelandic Drinking Culture: From how to toast in Iceland to stories about the country’s alcohol bans, the tour offers more than just tasting. It also provides context on why Iceland’s drinking habits are unique.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Stop 1: Your Friend In Reykjavik

The tour kicks off at Ingólfur Square, a central and accessible spot in Reykjavik. Here, you meet your guide and the small group, setting the tone for an intimate experience. The first bar doesn’t require an admission fee, which is typical for most stops but allows you to settle in and get comfortable.

Stop 2: Skuli Craft Bar

The first tasting session features Icelandic craft beers (or snaps if you prefer). This bar is a cozy, lively spot with a reputation for good conversation and a great beer selection. Your guide shares amusing stories about Iceland’s alcohol history, including the long-standing ban on beer, which lasted for 74 years. Many reviewers mention how informative and humorous the guide is here, making learning about Iceland’s drinking past engaging rather than dry.

Stop 3: Session Craft Bar

Next, you visit a top-notch bar known for its diverse selection of Icelandic beers. You sample four different brews or some snaps, with the guide giving tips on tasting and even fun tricks like how to toast in Icelandic. Past guests appreciated the relaxed vibe, with some noting they were tipsy and laughing by this point. The guide’s stories about the craft beer scene—like how certain beers are made or the quirky names they have—add flavor to the tasting experience.

Stop 4: Olstofa Kormaks og Skjaldar

The final stop is a highly regarded bar where you get to taste an award-winning Icelandic beer and learn about its unique history. This stop is particularly special because it offers a chance to try something exclusive—like a beer that was part of the post-banning revival. Many reviews praise this bar as a highlight for its quality and interesting stories, notably about Iceland’s beer history.

What’s Included and What Not

Included:
– Beverages (craft beers and snaps) at each stop
– A knowledgeable local guide
– The chance to try exclusive, locally brewed drinks
– An intimate, fun atmosphere

Not Included:
– Hotel pickup or drop-off (this is a walking tour starting at Ingólfur Square)

It’s worth noting that the tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is key. Most travelers find it manageable for Reykjavik’s mild evenings—just bring an umbrella or warm layers if needed.

Group Size and Timing

The tour runs at 6:00 pm, giving you your evenings free for dinner or other activities. With a maximum of 12 people, it’s small enough to be personal but lively enough for good conversations. Most travelers plan their booking around 59 days in advance, indicating steady interest and the need for early reservations.

What Reviewers Say

Feedback underscores the tour’s standout features—knowledgeable guides like Bo, Oli, and Kris, who go beyond just pouring drinks to sharing engaging stories about Iceland’s alcohol bans, local brewing quirks, and toasting customs. One guest even mentioned how their guide brought snacks to pair with beers, enhancing the tasting experience.

Many reviewers mention that they learned interesting facts about Iceland’s history, like the 74-year beer ban, which adds depth to their understanding of Icelandic culture. The convivial atmosphere, humor, and stories about the local drinking scene are frequently praised, with some guests saying it was a perfect way to start their Reykjavik evenings.

While most reviews glow with enthusiasm, a couple mention less favorable experiences—like visiting backstreet bars that seemed less lively or the tour feeling a bit tipsy at times. These highlight the importance of choosing a guide and venue that match your expectations, but overall, the positive feedback overwhelmingly supports the value and fun of the tour.

The Sum Up

The Reykjavik Beer & Booze Tour offers a lively, engaging way to explore Iceland’s unique drinking culture while enjoying some of the best local brews. It’s ideal for those who appreciate craft beers, are curious about Iceland’s alcohol history, or simply want a fun evening with new friends in a relaxed atmosphere.

The experienced guides, diverse venues, and authentic beverages ensure that this tour provides both entertainment and insight. It’s particularly valuable for travelers who want an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at Iceland’s brewing scene, all while having a good time. If you’re keen to combine learning with drinking in Reykjavik, this tour is a top-notch choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people under 20?
No, the minimum drinking age is 20 years old, so only guests over that age can participate.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, it starts at Ingólfur Square, which is centrally located and easy to reach by public transportation.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the tastings and stories without feeling rushed.

What should I wear?
Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, dress appropriately for the weather—layers, waterproofs, and comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s designed for adults over 20 due to the alcohol consumption involved, so it’s not suitable for children or teens.

Are the drinks included in the price?
Yes, all tastings and beverages are included, making it good value for the amount of drinks you get.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of knowledgeable guides, the variety of Icelandic beverages, and the intimate small-group setting all contribute to a memorable experience.

This Reykjavik Beer & Booze Tour offers a perfect mix of fun, learning, and local flavor—tailored for those who love a good drink and a good story. Whether you’re a craft beer novice or a seasoned enthusiast, this tour promises a lively evening in Iceland’s capital.