Best Bars in Reykjavík

Bar 22 is a vibrant cocktail and nightlife bar located on Laugavegur, Reykjavík’s main shopping and entertainment street. Situated in the heart of downtown, the bar is surrounded by restaurants, shops, and other nightlife spots, making it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the city after dark. Known for its energetic atmosphere and stylish interior, Bar 22 attracts a mix of locals and international travelers looking for a fun night out in Reykjavík. The bar offers an extensive selection of cocktails, spirits, and beers, with skilled bartenders creating both classic drinks and modern cocktail favorites. As the evening progresses, the atmosphere often becomes more lively, especially on weekends when DJs and music help create a dynamic nightlife experience. The bar’s central location makes it a popular meeting point before heading to other clubs and bars in the area, or simply a place to spend the entire evening enjoying music and drinks. Bar 22 is particularly popular with visitors who want to experience Reykjavík’s nightlife scene in a stylish yet relaxed setting. Whether you're starting your evening with cocktails, meeting friends for drinks, or continuing your night out in the city center, Bar 22 offers a fun and welcoming environment right in the middle of Reykjavík’s bustling nightlife district.

Hús Máls og Menningar is a unique cultural venue located on Laugavegur, Reykjavík’s main shopping and nightlife street. Originally established as a historic bookstore and publishing house, the building has been transformed into one of the city’s most distinctive cultural bars and live music venues. Inside, visitors will find shelves filled with Icelandic books alongside a lively bar and stage area where live music, poetry readings, and cultural events are regularly held. The venue beautifully blends literature, music, and nightlife, creating an atmosphere that feels both artistic and welcoming. The bar serves a selection of beers, wines, and cocktails, and guests can enjoy drinks while listening to live performances or browsing through books by Icelandic authors. Because of its relaxed and creative atmosphere, Hús Máls og Menningar attracts a diverse crowd of locals, artists, students, and travelers. Located in the heart of downtown Reykjavík, it is a perfect stop for visitors who want to experience Icelandic culture, live music, and nightlife all in one place. Whether you come for a quiet drink among books or a lively concert in the evening, Hús Máls og Menningar offers a memorable and uniquely Icelandic experience.

Kaffibarinn is one of the most famous bars in Reykjavik located on Laugavegur. Known for its lively atmosphere and long history in the city’s nightlife scene, it attracts both locals and visitors.

Kaldi Bar is a popular craft beer bar located on Laugavegur in the heart of downtown Reykjavik. The bar specializes in beers from Kaldi Brewery in North Iceland and is well known for serving high-quality Icelandic craft beer in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Inside, the bar has a cozy and welcoming feel with wooden interiors, warm lighting, and a lively crowd of both locals and travelers. Kaldi Bar is especially known for its fresh draft beer served directly from the brewery’s tanks, giving visitors a unique chance to taste Icelandic craft beer at its best. Because of its central location on Laugavegur, Kaldi Bar is a perfect stop while exploring Reykjavik’s nightlife scene. Visitors often stop by for a casual drink during the evening before continuing to other bars and clubs nearby. Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxed bar in downtown Reykjavik, Kaldi Bar offers an authentic Icelandic beer experience right in the middle of the city.

Lebowski Bar is one of Reykjavík’s most popular themed bars, located on Laugavegur in the heart of downtown. Inspired by the cult classic film The Big Lebowski, the bar is famous for its laid-back atmosphere, American diner-style interior, and an impressive menu of White Russian cocktails — the iconic drink made famous by the movie. The bar is spread over several floors, each offering a slightly different vibe. Downstairs, guests can enjoy the lively bar scene with music and cocktails, while upstairs often provides a more relaxed space where visitors can sit comfortably, socialize, and enjoy the unique décor inspired by bowling culture and the film’s characters. Lebowski Bar is particularly well known for its creative cocktail menu, featuring dozens of variations of the White Russian alongside a wide selection of beers, burgers, and classic American bar food. The casual atmosphere makes it an easy place for travelers to stop in for a drink, whether it’s early in the evening or late at night. Because of its fun theme, central location, and welcoming vibe, Lebowski Bar has become a favorite stop for tourists exploring Reykjavík’s nightlife. It’s an ideal place to start a night out on Laugavegur, meet fellow travelers, or simply enjoy a drink in one of the city’s most recognizable bars. 🍹 “The Dude abides” spirit is very much alive here — making Lebowski Bar a must-visit spot for fans of the movie and anyone looking for a relaxed but lively Reykjavík bar experience.

SKY Restaurant & Bar is a stylish rooftop restaurant in Reykjavik offering panoramic views of the harbor and city skyline along with modern Nordic cuisine.

The English Pub is a lively British-style pub in downtown Reykjavik known for live music, draft beers, sports broadcasts, and a fun nightlife atmosphere.

The Irishman Pub is a lively Irish-style pub in downtown Reykjavik known for its friendly atmosphere, draft beers, live sports, and traditional pub vibe.

Ölstofa Kormáks og Skjaldar is a charming craft beer bar tucked away in the heart of downtown Reykjavík. Just a short walk from the city’s main shopping street, Laugavegur, this small and welcoming bar has become a favorite meeting place for both locals and visitors looking to experience Iceland’s growing craft beer culture. The bar is known for its cozy and intimate atmosphere, featuring warm lighting, wooden interiors, and a relaxed old-world pub feeling. Unlike larger and louder venues, Ölstofa Kormáks og Skjaldar offers a more authentic Reykjavík nightlife experience where conversations flow easily and guests can truly unwind. Beer lovers will appreciate the carefully selected range of Icelandic craft beers alongside a variety of international brews. The staff are passionate about beer and are always happy to recommend something new to try, whether you're interested in local microbreweries or classic European styles. Because of its small size, the bar often feels lively and social, making it a great place to meet locals, chat with fellow travelers, and experience the friendly Icelandic bar culture. Occasionally the bar also hosts live music or small events, adding to its warm and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you're finishing a day of sightseeing, warming up after chasing the Northern Lights, or simply looking for a relaxed place to enjoy great beer in Reykjavík, Ölstofa Kormáks og Skjaldar is a hidden gem worth discovering. 🍺