Private Reykjavik Beer & Booze Tour

Reykjavik Beer & Booze Tour: A Friendly Dive into Iceland’s Drinking Scene

If you’re looking to explore Reykjavik’s vibrant bar scene without the hassle of planning, the Private Reykjavik Beer & Booze Tour might just be your perfect fit. This experience offers a relaxed way to taste some of Iceland’s top craft beers and unique spirits, all with a knowledgeable guide by your side.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines informative commentary with a personalized experience, all wrapped up in a manageable time frame of around two and a half hours. Plus, the included drinks mean you’re not left wondering about what to order — it’s all taken care of.

On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’d want to plan your transportation. But if you’re keen to get a taste of local Icelandic alcohol in a friendly, intimate setting, this tour is likely to be a hit. It’s especially suited for adults curious about Iceland’s drinking history and craft beer fans who want to sample without the guesswork.

Key Points

• Private group experience ensures personalized attention and a relaxed vibe
• Includes multiple tastings of Icelandic craft beers and schnapps
• Informative guide shares engaging stories about Iceland’s alcohol history
• Convenient location and easy-to-follow itinerary
• No hotel pickup, so plan your own transportation
• Great for beer lovers and those interested in local drinking culture

What is the Private Reykjavik Beer & Booze Tour?

This isn’t just a random pub crawl; it’s a carefully curated experience designed for those who want to enjoy Reykjavik’s best bars with a guide who knows his stuff. The tour runs about two to two and a half hours, and it is entirely private — meaning no noisy crowds, just your group and your guide. The focus is on Icelandic craft beers and spirits, giving you a chance to taste what makes Iceland’s booze scene special.

The tour is priced at about $172.48 per person, which might seem a little steep at first glance, but when you consider the included drinks and the personalized guide, it’s often seen as a good value for the quality and depth of experience. Plus, the reviews highlight that it’s booked roughly 17 days in advance, so planning ahead is wise.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

The tour kicks off at Ingólfur Square, a central spot that’s easy to find and close to public transportation. Meeting here helps keep logistics simple. From there, it’s a short walk to the first stop, Your Friend In Reykjavik, where you’ll meet your guide and get comfortable before diving into Reykjavik’s beer scene.

Stop 1: Your Friend In Reykjavik

While this stop doesn’t involve tastings, it sets a friendly tone and gets everyone together. It’s a casual meet-and-greet, perfect for breaking the ice with your guide and fellow travelers. It’s a quick 5-minute start, so don’t expect an extensive session here. The real fun begins at the next bar.

Stop 2: Skuli Craft Bar

This is where the craft beer adventure truly begins. You’ll sample a nice selection of Icelandic craft beers, and if you’re not into beer, schnapps is also an option. The guide makes this part engaging by sharing funny stories about Iceland’s alcohol history — which, as one reviewer pointed out, is surprisingly colorful.

This stop lasts about 45 minutes, giving you enough time to taste a few different brews and chat about their flavors, styles, and what makes Icelandic beer unique. The guide also discusses Iceland’s alcohol laws, which have an interesting history, including a period when beer was banned for 74 years. That’s a fact many find intriguing and adds a layer of context to what you’re drinking.

Stop 3: Session Craft Bar

Here, you get to sample four different Icelandic beers or a couple of snaps, depending on your preference. This stop is slightly longer at 50 minutes — plenty of time to try those beers, ask questions, and hear some funny stories about Iceland’s craft scene.

The reviews emphasize how knowledgeable and personable guides make the experience. One reviewer noted that their guide, Arnar, provided not only a great tasting experience but also shared insightful tips about life in Iceland and local recommendations.

Stop 4: Olstofa Kormaks og Skjaldar

The final stop stands out because it features an award-winning Icelandic beer and delves into some of the country’s brewing history. This is where you might find something rare or unique — like a beer that was banned for decades and is now celebrated.

This bar is considered one of the best in Iceland to sample exclusive brews. The discussion about Iceland’s beer ban and its eventual lifting adds a cultural touch to your tasting. The stop lasts about 45 minutes, giving you time to savor your final drinks and reflect on what you’ve learned.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Beyond just tasting beers, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Iceland’s alcohol history and local brewing culture. The guide’s engaging storytelling makes the experience enjoyable and educational, especially for those curious about how Iceland’s laws and traditions have shaped its drinking scene.

The private setting ensures you’re not rushed or crowded, allowing for genuine conversations and personalized recommendations. The inclusion of local beers and schnapps provides a taste of Iceland’s best, some of which are hard to find elsewhere, making it a memorable part of your Reykjavik trip.

The Practical Side: Price, Duration, and Logistics

At $172.48 per person, this tour falls into a mid-range pricing bracket, especially considering the private experience and multiple tastings. For craft beer lovers or those genuinely interested in Iceland’s drinking culture, many find it worthwhile — especially as it eliminates the need to research where to go and what to try.

The tour lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours, making it a great option if you’re looking for a shorter, focused experience without sacrificing depth. Because it doesn’t include hotel pickup, you’ll need to get to the starting point on your own, but the location in Reykjavik’s city centre makes that easy.

What Do the Reviews Say?

Both reviewers rave about the guide’s knowledge and ability to make the experience fun and informative. One called it a “great chat with a local,” appreciating the stories and recommendations shared. Another highlighted it as “informative and a lot of fun,” emphasizing the lively, engaging atmosphere.

The reviews reinforce that this tour isn’t just about drinking; it’s about understanding Iceland’s alcohol culture in a relaxed, friendly setting.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re interested in craft beers and want to learn about Iceland’s unique history with alcohol. It’s great for adults who enjoy social, guided experiences and prefer a private setting over busier group tours.

It’s perfect for those who want a mix of tasting, storytelling, and local insights — but it’s best suited for those over 20, given the legal drinking age.

Final Thoughts

If you’re visiting Reykjavik and want a personalized, engaging way to sample local drinks while learning about their fascinating history, this private beer and booze tour ticks many boxes. It offers a balanced mix of tastings, stories, and local culture, all delivered by a guide who clearly knows his stuff.

While it’s not a cheap experience, the quality of the guide, the private setting, and the chance to try Icelandic beers you might not find on your own make it a worthwhile splurge. It’s especially suited for beer aficionados or anyone curious about Iceland’s alcohol laws and traditions, looking for a fun, relaxed way to spend a few hours.

If you enjoy discovering local flavors with a friendly guide who makes the history come alive, this tour could be a memorable highlight of your Reykjavik trip.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour begins at Ingólfur Square, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the starting point.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, making it a manageable and enriching experience without taking up your entire day.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, the minimum drinking age in Iceland is 20, so this experience is for adults only.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a local guide, a professional guide, and all the beverages you’ll taste, including alcoholic drinks.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, which gives you flexibility if your plans shift.

Is this tour suitable for someone interested in local Icelandic spirits?
Absolutely — the tour features schnapps and a rare, award-winning Icelandic beer, offering a good taste of local brewing innovation and tradition.

Whether you’re a seasoned beer lover or just curious about Iceland’s alcohol history, this private Reykjavik Beer & Booze Tour offers a friendly, informative, and tasty way to experience the city’s bar scene.