Quick answer
For the best overall craft beer experience combining an extensive tap list and knowledgeable staff, Skúli Craft Bar is a must-visit.
- Best overall
- Skúli Craft Bar
- Best budget
- Kaldi Bar
- Best experience
- RVK Brewing Co.
- Last verified
- 2026-03
How we picked these
Our selection of Reykjavik's best craft beer bars is based on extensive research, including expert reviews, local recommendations, and patron feedback on platforms like Google Reviews and Reddit. We prioritized venues offering diverse tap lists, unique atmospheres, quality food pairings (where applicable), and exceptional service.
Skúli Craft Bar
Widely regarded as one of Reykjavik's premier craft beer destinations, Skúli Craft Bar boasts an impressive rotating tap list focusing heavily on Icelandic microbreweries. The knowledgeable staff and cozy, unpretentious atmosphere make it perfect for both seasoned beer geeks and curious newcomers. It's an ideal spot to explore the depth of the local brewing scene.
🍽️ What to order
A flight of Icelandic microbrews to sample diverse local styles.
💡 Insider tip
Don't hesitate to ask the bartenders for recommendations; they are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about their selection.
"Skúli Craft Bar always has an amazing rotating selection, and the staff really knows their stuff. Best place to start if you're serious about craft beer."— r/travel user
Micro Bar
Nestled within the Centerhotel Plaza, Micro Bar is a pioneering craft beer spot in Reykjavik, offering a warm and intimate setting. Despite its small size, it features a carefully curated selection of local and international craft beers on tap, often including rare finds. It’s a favorite among locals for its friendly vibe and commitment to quality brews.
🍽️ What to order
Anything from Gæðingur Brugghús, a renowned Icelandic microbrewery often featured here.
💡 Insider tip
This bar can get quite cozy quickly due to its size, so consider arriving earlier in the evening to secure a spot.
"Micro Bar is a classic for a reason. Small, but mighty tap list and they usually have some excellent local gems."— r/VisitingIceland user
Hverfisgata 12 (Hverfi Bar)
Known affectionately as 'Hverfi Bar,' this stylish establishment on Hverfisgata offers a chic industrial vibe with an excellent selection of craft beers alongside creative cocktails. It's also famous for its delicious sourdough pizzas, making it a perfect spot for a casual dinner and drinks. The atmosphere is often lively and trendy, attracting a diverse crowd.
🍽️ What to order
Try a local sour or something experimental from their frequently changing taps, paired with one of their gourmet pizzas.
💡 Insider tip
This place also has fantastic pizzas, perfect for pairing with your beer. It's a great option if you're looking for both food and drink.
"Hverfi Bar is super trendy and their beer list is always on point, plus the vibe is just right for a Friday night."— r/Reykjavik user
Gaukurinn
Gaukurinn stands out as Reykjavik's oldest and most iconic live music venue, also boasting a surprisingly robust craft beer selection. While it has a distinct dive bar aesthetic and frequently hosts punk, metal, and comedy acts, its taps often feature quality local and international brews. It's the place to go for a raw, authentic Reykjavik nightlife experience.
🍽️ What to order
Whatever local IPA or lager is on tap, often at a more budget-friendly price than other establishments.
💡 Insider tip
Check their schedule for live music or comedy shows, which can add a unique and memorable dimension to your visit.
"Gaukurinn might look rough around the edges, but they actually have a solid craft beer selection and the cheapest pints on a good night. Don't let the metal music scare you."— r/travel user
Bastard Brew & Food
Bastard Brew & Food offers a lively atmosphere where you can enjoy house-brewed beers alongside a menu of hearty American-inspired gastropub fare. Located centrally, it’s a popular spot for groups and features screens for live sports. Their commitment to brewing their own quality craft beers adds a unique dimension to the Reykjavik dining scene.
🍽️ What to order
Their house-brewed IPA and the Bastard Burger, a local favorite.
💡 Insider tip
Great spot for both food and beer; it can get busy, so reservations for dinner are recommended, especially on weekends.
"Loved the atmosphere at Bastard Brew & Food, their own beers are surprisingly good and the food is legit comfort food."— r/food user
Session Craft Bar
Session Craft Bar is a haven for serious beer lovers, offering a focused and well-curated selection of craft beers in a sleek, minimalist setting. The emphasis here is on the quality of the brew, with a rotating selection that frequently features Nordic and European guest taps alongside top Icelandic choices. It's a quieter spot, ideal for conversation and savoring your pint.
🍽️ What to order
Any of their rotating Nordic guest taps for a taste of regional craft brewing excellence.
💡 Insider tip
This bar focuses solely on quality beer, so expect an attentive and knowledgeable staff ready to guide your choices and discuss the nuances of each brew.
"Session Craft Bar is one of my favorites for a serious beer tasting. It's quieter than some other spots, perfect for enjoying a good brew."— r/Reykjavik user
RVK Brewing Co.
Located in the up-and-coming Grandi harbor area, RVK Brewing Co. is a vibrant taproom attached directly to the brewery itself. Guests can enjoy incredibly fresh beers, including their core range and seasonal experimental brews, in a spacious, industrial-chic environment. It’s an authentic brewery experience, offering insights into the brewing process.
🍽️ What to order
A tasting flight of their core range and seasonal brews to get a comprehensive feel for their offerings.
💡 Insider tip
Located in the Grandi harbor area, it's a bit of a walk or short taxi from downtown but absolutely worth it for the brewery experience and freshest beer.
"RVK Brewing Co. is awesome if you want to drink beer right where it's made. The Grandi area itself is cool to explore too."— r/VisitingIceland user
Sæmundur í Sparifötunum (KEX Hostel)
The bar at KEX Hostel, Sæmundur í Sparifötunum, is far more than just a hostel bar; it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, known for its lively atmosphere, great food, and selection of craft beers. With stunning views of the bay and Mount Esja, it offers a relaxed setting with regular live music and social events.
🍽️ What to order
Whatever local craft beer is on special, paired with their popular brunch items if visiting during the day.
💡 Insider tip
Enjoy stunning views of the bay and Mount Esja from their patio, especially during sunset. It's a prime photo opportunity.
"KEX Hostel's bar, Sæmundur, has such a cool vibe and often a great selection of local beers. Plus, the view from the patio is unbeatable."— r/travel user
Kaldi Bar
Kaldi Bar is a charming and cozy establishment that feels like a classic Icelandic pub, yet it's deeply rooted in the craft beer scene as it's the official bar for the renowned Kaldi microbrewery. You'll find their full range of unfiltered, unpasteurized lagers and seasonal brews on tap. It's a great place to experience a slice of traditional Icelandic hospitality with quality beer.
🍽️ What to order
A classic Kaldi Dark Lager or a seasonal Kaldi brew for an authentic Icelandic taste.
💡 Insider tip
This cozy bar is one of Reykjavik's oldest and offers a more traditional, less touristy atmosphere, making it a great spot to unwind with locals.
"Kaldi Bar is a staple. Their own beers are fantastic and reasonably priced for Reykjavik. Great for a chill evening."— r/Iceland user
Bryggjan Brugghús
Located directly on the old harbor, Bryggjan Brugghús is Reykjavik's first microbrewery and bistro. It combines a lively brewpub atmosphere with a full-service restaurant specializing in fresh Icelandic seafood. You can enjoy their diverse range of house-brewed craft beers with panoramic views of the harbor, making it perfect for a meal or just drinks.
🍽️ What to order
A flight of their house-brewed beers and some fresh seafood from their menu, like the Fish & Chips.
💡 Insider tip
Ideal for groups looking for a full dining experience alongside their craft beer, with a great view of the harbor, especially during the day.
"Bryggjan Brugghús has some really solid beers brewed right there, and the fish and chips are seriously good. Nice spot on the harbor."— r/food user
BrewDog Reykjavik
Part of the global BrewDog chain, this Reykjavik outpost brings its signature vibrant energy and extensive tap list to the city center. Featuring a wide selection of BrewDog's own popular beers, alongside guest taps from local Icelandic breweries and international craft brewers, it's a reliable choice for a diverse beer experience and classic pub food.
🍽️ What to order
A pint of their flagship Punk IPA or try a limited edition brew from their guest taps for something unique.
💡 Insider tip
Known for its vibrant atmosphere, it's a good place to meet fellow travelers and enjoy a consistent craft beer experience, similar to BrewDog locations worldwide.
"BrewDog Reykjavik is pretty standard BrewDog, but if you like their stuff, it's a reliable choice with a good vibe and plenty of taps."— r/travel user
Mikkeller & Friends Reykjavik
Housed on the second floor above a popular pizzeria, Mikkeller & Friends brings the renowned Danish gypsy brewer's ethos to Reykjavik. This spot is a must-visit for serious beer connoisseurs, offering a meticulously curated selection of Mikkeller's innovative brews, rare imports, and high-quality Icelandic craft beers. Expect a quieter, more focused tasting experience.
🍽️ What to order
One of their rare or experimental Mikkeller brews, or a specialty sour not commonly found elsewhere.
💡 Insider tip
This bar often features unique and harder-to-find international craft beers, making it a destination for serious beer enthusiasts willing to pay a premium for exclusivity.
"Mikkeller & Friends Reykjavik is pricey but if you're into really rare or experimental beers, this is the place. Always something interesting on tap."— r/beer user
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is craft beer expensive in Reykjavik?
Yes, craft beer in Reykjavik is generally more expensive than in many other European cities, largely due to high taxes and import costs. Expect to pay between ISK 1,200 to ISK 2,300 ($9-17 USD) for a pint, with specialty or imported brews often at the higher end. However, the quality and unique local options often justify the price for enthusiasts.
What local Icelandic breweries should I look out for?
Iceland's craft beer scene is booming with excellent local breweries. Look for brews from Borg Brugghús, RVK Brewing Co., Einstök Ölgerð, Gæðingur Brugghús, and the original Kaldi microbrewery. Many bars will feature a selection of their core range and seasonal offerings, providing a true taste of Icelandic brewing.
Are there any craft beer tours in Reykjavik?
While dedicated large-scale craft beer tours are less common than in some bigger cities, several companies offer guided walking tours that include stops at some of Reykjavik's best bars and pubs, often with beer tastings. Alternatively, RVK Brewing Co. in the Grandi area sometimes offers brewery tours and tastings directly at their facility.
What are the typical opening hours for craft beer bars in Reykjavik?
Most craft beer bars in Reykjavik open in the late afternoon, usually between 2 PM and 4 PM, and stay open until late evening. Weekdays typically see closing times around 11 PM to 1 AM, while weekends often extend to 3 AM or later. It's always a good idea to check specific venue hours, especially for public holidays.
Can I find non-alcoholic craft beer options in Reykjavik bars?
Yes, the availability of non-alcoholic craft beer is increasing in Reykjavik's bars, though the selection may vary. Many establishments will offer at least one or two non-alcoholic beer options, often from larger Icelandic breweries or popular international brands. Don't hesitate to ask your bartender for their current selection.
Is it easy to get around to different craft beer bars in Reykjavik?
Absolutely! Most of Reykjavik's best craft beer bars are conveniently located within the city center (Miðbær) and are easily walkable from one another. For venues slightly further afield, like those in the Grandi harbor district, a short bus ride or taxi will get you there quickly, making a self-guided pub crawl quite manageable.
Plan your Reykjavik trip
Get a free custom itinerary for Reykjavik — built from real traveler insights.
Get a Free Itinerary →
