Reykjavik: Private Beer and Booze Tasting Tour

If you’re looking for a way to get a taste of Iceland beyond the typical sightseeing, this Private Beer and Booze Tasting Tour in Reykjavik offers a fun, relaxed way to sample Icelandic drinks and learn about local drinking customs. While it may not be the longest or most intense activity, it’s a charming, intimate experience that combines good drinks with engaging stories.

Two things we love about this tour are the opportunity to sample 9 unique Icelandic craft beers from microbreweries across the country and the chance to hear about Iceland’s fascinating drinking history — especially the story of the 74-year beer ban. A potential drawback? Since it’s just 2.5 hours, you won’t get a full day’s worth of tastings, but that’s enough for a pleasant, manageable introduction.

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy discovering local beverages and want a relaxed, behind-the-scenes look at Reykjavik’s bar scene. It’s also a good choice for those interested in Iceland’s history of alcohol or simply want a friendly, personalized outing that doesn’t involve large groups or crowded venues.

Key Points

• Small and personalized: The private group format means more interaction and tailored attention.
• Diverse drink options: Tasting 9 Icelandic craft beers or alternative spirits like gin, vodka, or Brennivín.
• Educational aspect: Learn about the history of beer in Iceland, including the 74-year ban.
• Flexible options: If beer isn’t your thing, wine or spirits can be ordered instead.
• Practical tips: Get advice on how to save money on drinks while in Iceland.
• Authentic experience: Visit some of Reykjavik’s best bars with a knowledgeable guide.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Reykjavik Beer and Booze Tour

This private tasting tour offers a delightful mix of local flavor and cultural insight. Starting at a central meeting point near the iconic Ingolfur Square, you’ll meet your guide and set out on a journey that combines tasty drinks with stories that illuminate Iceland’s unique relationship with alcohol.

What the Tour Includes

For $169 per person, you gain access to 9 carefully curated Icelandic beverages—these are mostly craft beers from microbreweries across the country, reflecting the recent boom in Iceland’s brewing scene. The tour also offers alternative options like Icelandic gin, vodka, or Brennivín, the national spirit known for its potent flavor and cultural significance.

Your guide will provide insights into Iceland’s drinking culture, sharing stories about the 70+ year prohibition on beer and how microbreweries are reshaping the scene today. This historical context enhances the tasting experience, making it more than just sipping—it’s about understanding how alcohol fits into Icelandic life.

Visiting Reykjavik’s Best Bars

While the specific bars visited aren’t detailed, the tour’s focus on top Reykjavik spots ensures you’ll visit popular, well-regarded establishments. These venues are chosen for their quality drinks, lively atmospheres, and authenticity. You might find yourself in cozy taverns with local character, or more modern microbrewery taprooms, each offering a different vibe.

Tasting Experience

The 9 samples are a highlight—these might include beers from small Icelandic breweries emphasizing local ingredients and innovative brewing techniques. Expect to taste a range of styles, from light lagers to richer ales, each telling a story of Iceland’s brewing evolution.

If beer isn’t your thing, don’t worry—wine can be ordered at each stop, or you can opt for spirits like Brennivín or gin, making sure everyone leaves satisfied.

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Learning and Tips

A standout feature of this tour is the learning component. Your guide will share stories about the history of beer in Iceland, pinpointing how the nation’s drinkers overcame the 74-year ban—which lasted until 1989—and how microbreweries are now thriving. You’ll also get practical advice on saving money on drinks, which is especially helpful given Reykjavik’s generally high prices for alcohol.

The Group and Atmosphere

This is a small, private group experience, ensuring you get personalized attention and the chance to ask questions. The guide speaks several languages—English, Spanish, and French—making it accessible for many travelers. The focus on quality over quantity makes it a relaxed, enjoyable experience rather than a boisterous pub crawl.

Durations and Logistics

At just 2.5 hours, it’s a manageable activity that fits easily into a day of sightseeing. The tour starts in the late morning or early evening, but check availability for specific times. Since transportation isn’t included, you’ll need to find your way to the meeting point, which is convenient and central.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The tour is wheelchair accessible and encourages comfortable shoes and warm clothing, especially considering Iceland’s often chilly weather. As it’s a private, booked experience, it’s suited for those seeking a more personalized, controlled environment.

Value and Considerations

While $169 may seem steep, remember this includes 9 tastings plus insights about Icelandic drinking culture. Comparing that to buying similar drinks individually at bars, it offers not only convenience but also educational value. Plus, the tips on saving money and learning local customs add a layer of benefit.

However, keep in mind this isn’t a full bar crawl — just a focused, quality experience. If you’re eager to explore Reykjavik’s entire bar scene or do a day-long tasting, this might be just the primer you need without feeling overwhelmed.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits beer lovers, spirits enthusiasts, and curious travelers wanting a relaxed, intimate look into Iceland’s drinking traditions. It’s ideal for those who appreciate small groups and tailored conversations, not someone seeking an all-night party. It’s also great for travelers who want a cultural twist on their beverage tasting, understanding how history and local ingredients influence the drinks.

If you’re traveling as a couple or in a small group, you’ll value the personalized nature of the tour. If you’re solo, it’s a perfect way to meet like-minded travelers while learning about Iceland’s unique booze culture.

Final Thoughts

This private beer and booze tasting tour offers a well-rounded, informative, and fun way to enjoy Reykjavik’s bar scene. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of Icelandic drinking traditions, some new favorite beverages, and a handful of stories to share back home. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy craft beverages and local history without the hustle of a large tour or pub crawl.

While it might not satisfy those seeking a full-day drinking adventure, it’s a perfect, curated intro—delivering quality over quantity—and a memorable way to connect with Reykjavik’s vibrant, evolving drinking culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $169 per person, which includes nine tastings of Icelandic craft beers or alternative spirits and tips on saving money locally.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a convenient activity to fit into your Reykjavik itinerary.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is near the two big stone pillars on Ingolfur Square, centrally located in Reykjavik.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, if beer isn’t your thing, you can opt for wine or spirits like gin, vodka, or Brennivín at each stop.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point.

What languages are available?
The tour is offered in English, Spanish, and French, ensuring accessibility for a variety of travelers.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is designed to be accessible for wheelchair users.

Are meals included?
No, the tour doesn’t include meals, but you might find the bars serve snacks or tapas.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience, perfect for small groups or couples seeking personalized attention.

This tasting tour offers a genuine, enjoyable way to explore Reykjavik’s bar scene with a local guide, making it a worthwhile addition for anyone curious about Iceland’s drink traditions or simply looking for a relaxed way to enjoy the city’s nightlife.

You can check availability for your dates here: