Reykjavik Nightlife Guide: Complete Guide
Experience the best bars, clubs, live music venues, and entertainment after dark. Discover the best nightlife experiences in Reykjavik.
Welcome to the ultimate nightlife guide for Reykjavik! Experience the best bars, clubs, live music venues, and entertainment after dark. This comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best nightlife experiences that Reykjavik has to offer, from popular hotspots to hidden local favorites. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you'll find insider tips, detailed recommendations, and everything you need to make the most of your nightlife adventure in Reykjavik. Our carefully curated selection ensures you won't miss any of the must-see spots while also discovering unique experiences that most tourists overlook.
Key Takeaways
- Reykjavik offers over 67 exceptional nightlife experiences
- Best time to visit varies by activity - check individual listings for optimal timing
- Many experiences require advance booking, especially during peak season
- Local guides and experts provide invaluable insights and access
- Prices range from budget-friendly to premium, with options for every preference
Top Bars & Cocktail Lounges
Craft cocktail bars, rooftop lounges, and unique drinking establishments with great atmospheres.
Lebowski Bar
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 4.5 stars from 3551 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Laugavegur 20a, Laugavegur 18B, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Íslenski Barinn - The Icelandic Bar
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 4.7 stars from 4679 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 43W8+QP5, Ingólfsstræti 1a 101, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Kokteilbarinn
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 4.8 stars from 91 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Klapparstígur 28, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Jungle Cocktail Bar
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 4.8 stars from 424 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Austurstræti 9, 101, Austurstræti 9, Austurstræti 11, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Einstök Bar
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 4.7 stars from 560 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Laugavegur 10 101, Laugavegur 10, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
LEMMY
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 4.7 stars from 683 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Austurstræti 20, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Daisy Cocktail Bar
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 5 stars from 88 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Ingólfsstræti 8, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Skúli Craft bar
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 4.6 stars from 641 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Aðalstræti 9 101, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Upscale dining experience
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
22 Bar
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 4.5 stars from 783 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Laugavegur 22 101, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
The Irishman Pub
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 4.6 stars from 888 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Klapparstígur 27, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Drykk Bar
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 4.8 stars from 85 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Pósthússtræti 3-5 (Pósthús Foodhall, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Kaffibarinn Bar
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 4.5 stars from 661 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Bergstaðastræti 1, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Nightclubs & Dance Venues
Popular nightclubs, dance clubs, and venues featuring top DJs and live performances.
LÚX Nightclub
Highly rated International in Reykjavik with 2.7 stars from 38 reviews.
📍 Austurstræti 7, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🌃Welcoming atmosphere
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Pablo Discobar
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 4.1 stars from 276 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Veltusund 1, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Gaukurinn
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 4.5 stars from 418 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Tryggvagata 22, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
HAX Nightclub
Highly rated International in Reykjavik with 3.3 stars from 27 reviews.
📍 Traðarkot, Hverfisgata 20, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🌃Welcoming atmosphere
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Austur
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 3.8 stars from 81 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Hafnarstræti 8, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🌃Welcoming atmosphere
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Paloma Club
Highly rated International in Reykjavik with 3.7 stars from 70 reviews.
📍 Naustin 1-3, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🌃Welcoming atmosphere
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Lebowski Bar
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 4.5 stars from 3551 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Laugavegur 20a, Laugavegur 18B, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
AUTO Nightclub
Highly rated International in Reykjavik with 3.8 stars from 31 reviews.
📍 Lækjargata 2a, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🌃Welcoming atmosphere
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
EXIT Nightclub and Shisha
Highly rated International in Reykjavik with 3.8 stars from 33 reviews.
📍 Austurstræti 3, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🌃Welcoming atmosphere
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Kíkí Queer Bar
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 4 stars from 256 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Laugavegur 22, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Live Music Venues
Concert halls, jazz clubs, and venues showcasing local and international musical talent.
Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre
Highly rated Cafe in Reykjavik with 4.6 stars from 8957 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Cafe cuisine
Hús máls og menningar
Highly rated International in Reykjavik with 4.8 stars from 1292 reviews.
📍 Laugavegur 18, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Gaukurinn
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 4.5 stars from 418 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Tryggvagata 22, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Dillon Whiskey Bar
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 4.4 stars from 1186 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Laugavegur 30, Laugavegur 30 101, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Mengi
Highly rated International in Reykjavik with 5 stars from 26 reviews.
📍 Óðinsgata 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Welcoming atmosphere
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Prikið ehf.
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 4.5 stars from 1025 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Bankastræti 12, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Tjarnarbíó Theater
Highly rated International in Reykjavik with 4.7 stars from 66 reviews.
📍 Tjarnargata 12, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Welcoming atmosphere
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
LEMMY
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 4.7 stars from 683 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Austurstræti 20, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Late-Night Dining
Restaurants and eateries open late for post-party meals and midnight cravings.
Íslenski Barinn - The Icelandic Bar
Highly rated Bar in Reykjavik with 4.7 stars from 4679 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 43W8+QP5, Ingólfsstræti 1a 101, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Skál!
Highly rated Restaurant in Reykjavik with 4.7 stars from 1069 reviews.
📍 Njálsgata 1, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Le KocK
Highly rated Restaurant in Reykjavik with 4.7 stars from 1225 reviews.
📍 Tryggvagata 12, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
ROK
Highly rated Restaurant in Reykjavik with 4.5 stars from 1575 reviews.
📍 Frakkastígur 26a, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Upscale dining experience
Lóa Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Reykjavik with 4.7 stars from 798 reviews.
📍 Laugavegur 95-99 Main entrance from Snorrabraut, Laugavegur, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Forréttabarinn
Highly rated Restaurant in Reykjavik with 4.7 stars from 996 reviews.
📍 Nýlendugata 14, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Fjallkonan
Highly rated Restaurant in Reykjavik with 4.6 stars from 845 reviews.
📍 Hafnarstræti 1-3, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Fish Company
Highly rated Seafood in Reykjavik with 4.7 stars from 1713 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.
📍 Vesturgata 2a, Grófartorg, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Upscale dining experience
- 🌃Authentic Seafood cuisine
Entertainment & Shows
Comedy clubs, theaters, and entertainment venues offering nighttime performances.
Tjarnarbíó Theater
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Reykjavik venue, featuring talented actors and captivating productions.
- •Book tickets in advance for popular shows
- •Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
- •Dress code varies - check venue requirements
- •Turn off mobile phones during performance
- •Check for student or group discounts
Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre
Experience unforgettable entertainment at this Reykjavik venue, offering shows and performances for all tastes.
- •Book tickets online in advance
- •Check show duration and intermissions
- •Arrive early to find parking
- •Review venue policies before attending
- •Check for package deals
The Reykjavik City Theatre
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Reykjavik venue, featuring talented actors and captivating productions.
- •Book tickets in advance for popular shows
- •Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
- •Dress code varies - check venue requirements
- •Turn off mobile phones during performance
- •Check for student or group discounts
Comedy in Iceland
Laugh the night away at this popular Reykjavik comedy venue, showcasing both local and touring comedians.
- •Arrive early for best seating
- •Two-drink minimum often required
- •Be prepared to interact with performers
- •Check age restrictions (often 18+ or 21+)
- •Avoid sitting in front row if you don't want attention
The National Theatre of Iceland
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Reykjavik venue, featuring talented actors and captivating productions.
- •Book tickets in advance for popular shows
- •Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
- •Dress code varies - check venue requirements
- •Turn off mobile phones during performance
- •Check for student or group discounts
The Dubliner
Experience unforgettable entertainment at this Reykjavik venue, offering shows and performances for all tastes.
- •Book tickets online in advance
- •Check show duration and intermissions
- •Arrive early to find parking
- •Review venue policies before attending
- •Check for package deals
Nightlife Districts
Popular neighborhoods and areas known for vibrant nightlife and bar-hopping.
Gaukurinn
Explore Reykjavik's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Lebowski Bar
Explore Reykjavik's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
LEMMY
Explore Reykjavik's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
AUTO Nightclub
Explore Reykjavik's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Kaffibarinn Bar
Explore Reykjavik's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Austur
Explore Reykjavik's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Essential Tips
- 🌃Check dress codes before heading out
- 🌃Arrive early to avoid long lines at popular venues
- 🌃Use ride-sharing apps for safe transportation
- 🌃Keep valuables secure and stay aware of surroundings
- 🌃Pace yourself and stay hydrated
- 🌃Research cover charges and drink prices
- 🌃Make reservations for popular venues
- 🌃Bring valid ID - many places are strict about checking
- 🌃Start early - some venues close earlier than expected
- 🌃Ask locals for current hotspots and hidden gems
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
The best time for nightlife experiences in Reykjavik varies by activity and season. Generally, spring and fall offer ideal conditions with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is peak season with the most options but also the highest prices and largest crowds. Winter can offer unique experiences and better deals, though some activities may be limited.
Average Price
Prices for nightlife experiences in Reykjavik range widely depending on the activity and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium and exclusive options can range from $200-500+. Many activities offer group discounts and package deals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Reykjavik offers many excellent nightlife experiences, each with its own unique character. The best choice depends on your preferences, budget, and schedule, but our guide highlights the top-rated options that consistently deliver exceptional experiences.
Timing varies by activity, but generally spring and fall offer ideal conditions. Summer is peak season with the most options but larger crowds. Check individual listings for specific timing recommendations and seasonal considerations.
For popular experiences, especially during peak season, advance booking is highly recommended. Some activities have limited capacity and sell out quickly. Booking ahead also often provides better rates and ensures availability.
Requirements vary by activity, but generally bring comfortable clothing, appropriate footwear, sun protection, water, and any specific gear mentioned in activity descriptions. Check individual listings for detailed requirements.
Many nightlife experiences in Reykjavik cater to all skill levels, from beginners to experts. Check individual listings for difficulty levels and requirements. Many operators offer instruction and guidance for newcomers.
Costs vary widely depending on the type of experience and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium options can range from $200-500+. Group discounts and packages are often available.
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