Reykjavik’s bar scene is cozy and full of surprises, and this small-group pub crawl dives right in with a local guide who knows where the good pours are. You’ll hit three hand-picked spots tasting a range of Icelandic craft beers – crisp lagers, bold IPAs, maybe a smoked stout – or swap for local spirits and snaps if beer isn’t your thing. Between sips, the guide shares the wild story of Iceland’s beer history, from Viking mead days to the 1989 end of prohibition that changed everything. The intimate group means real chats, new friends, and plenty of insider tips for the rest of your stay – best hidden bars, late-night eats, or how to navigate the colorful city center without getting lost. Fun, relaxed and the perfect way to feel Reykjavik’s nightlife like a local.
The historic stone alleys of downtown Reykjavik and the cozy wood-paneled dens of the city's premier craft bars serve as the stage for this 2.5-hour high-impact beverage expedition.
Provided by Your Friend In Reykjavik, this "Badge of Excellence" journey transitions from the legendary pillars of Ingólfstorg Square to the most specialized taps in the capital.
You move through a curated selection of three distinct venues, experiencing an environment where the quirky history of Iceland's 74-year beer ban and modern craft innovations define the vertical energy of the night.
Because this is a highly social small-group activity recommended by 96% of travelers, you should secure your Beer & Booze tour early to ensure a 2026 seat at the bar.
Expect an "informative, fun, and overall very enjoyable" immersion into Icelandic drinking culture. The transition from Viking history to modern craft mastery is managed with a sense of humor by guides like Bo, who ensure the maximum group of 12 remains intimate. The environment is one of "personalized attention," where you can choose between beer or local snaps. Note that the minimum drinking age is 20 years, and the tour operates in all weather conditions, making appropriate 2026 layers a vertical requirement.
If you aren't a beer lover, opt for the local spirits at the first stop; the vertical depth of flavor in Icelandic small-batch snaps is a 2026 must-try for any adventurous palate.
Ask for a taste of "Black Death" at the final stop; our agency finds that travelers who pair this traditional caraway-flavored spirit with a local craft beer experience the most vertical and authentic Icelandic "toast." * The "Session" Rule: Pay close attention to the recommendations at Session Craft Bar; the guides are extremely knowledgeable and can point you toward the most vertical-friendly 2026 bars and restaurants for the rest of your stay.
Meet at the stone pillars by 5:55 PM; starting the vertical crawl on time ensures your group secures the best "patron choice" seating at the popular craft bars before the 2026 evening rush.
The atmosphere and crowd energy change vertically throughout the 2026 season.
Outside Hlöllabátar at Ingólfstorg Square (Look for the blue jacket).
You must be at least 20 years old to participate in this tour.
Yes, a minimum of 2 people is required for the tour to depart.
Yes, you can sample local spirits and snaps instead of beer at each stop.
No, standard tours are not accessible, but private arrangements can be made.
Book it today with Reykjavik Food Tours or simply following this link.
