Private Reykjavik Beer & Booze Tour

A Taste of Reykjavik’s Beer Scene: Honest Review of the Private Beer & Booze Tour

If you’re visiting Reykjavik and enjoy a good drink, this private Beer & Booze Tour offers a delicious way to explore the city’s alcohol culture without the hassle of research or wandering aimlessly. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that combines sampling some of Iceland’s best craft beers and schnapps with engaging storytelling from a knowledgeable local guide. The tour is just over two hours long and is designed specifically for your group, making it a personalized adventure that feels both relaxed and informative.

What I love most about this experience is how smoothly everything is organized — from the pickup (which is offered, making logistics easier) to the carefully selected bars that showcase Iceland’s hidden drink treasures. Plus, you get a private guide, which means you’ll get tailored stories and tips, not just a scripted spiel. One standout is that guides like Arnar go beyond just beers—they share hilarious anecdotes about Icelandic drinking laws, including the curious fact that beer was banned for 74 years. That kind of story makes the tour memorable.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace and good conversation. While the included drinks cover craft beers and snaps, if you’re not a fan of alcohol or prefer non-drinking companions, this may not be suitable. Also, since it’s a private tour, it’s a bit pricier than group experiences, but the personalized attention and insider knowledge justify the cost for many.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Private Experience: Tailored just for your group, offering exclusive access and personalized stories.
• Local Guide: Guides like Arnar provide entertaining commentary and insider tips, making the tour both fun and educational.
• Unique Beer Tastes: Sample Icelandic craft beers you won’t find anywhere else, including a special award-winning brew.
• Historical Anecdotes: Learn amusing and surprising facts, such as the 74-year beer ban in Iceland.
• Hassle-Free Convenience: Pickup is offered, and the tour includes all alcoholic beverages, making it a seamless experience.
• Authentic Atmosphere: The selected bars are among Reykjavik’s best for craft beer and local spirits, delivering genuine Icelandic drinking culture.

Unpacking the Experience: A Detailed Look at the Tour

Starting Point: Ingólfur Square

Your journey begins at Ingólfur Square, a central hub close to public transport, which makes meeting up straightforward. The tour kicks off with a warm welcome and an orientation, setting the tone for a relaxed and engaging few hours. It’s nice that the tour is private; I find this often means more flexibility in timing and conversation. Expect to be greeted by your guide, who’s likely to be someone passionate about Reykjavik’s alcohol scene.

Skuli Craft Bar: A Dive into Icelandic Craft Beers

The first bar, Skuli Craft Bar, offers a casual introduction with a selection of Icelandic craft beers and snaps. Here, your guide might share stories about the humorous history of alcohol in Iceland—like how beer was once banned for 74 years. It’s a fun icebreaker that sets the stage for appreciating Iceland’s unique drinking laws and brewing culture.

The 45-minute stop gives everyone a chance to sip and chat, with the guide giving insights into the different styles of Icelandic brews. I love that this stop is both educational and relaxed, with plenty of room for questions. From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Arnar excel at picking beers and engaging guests with humor and local knowledge.

Session Craft Bar: Tasting & Tales

Next, it’s on to Session Craft Bar, known for its vibrant atmosphere and excellent selection. Here you’ll sample four different Icelandic beers—or a couple of snaps if you prefer. This is the heart of the tour for many, as it’s where you get a real taste of Iceland’s craft brewing scene. The guide shares stories about the scene’s growth and tricks for identifying local beers.

At this point, most guests find themselves a little tipsy, which makes the storytelling even more entertaining. A common highlight is the guide’s humorous tips and anecdotes about Icelandic drinking culture. From the reviews, I note that guides are not only knowledgeable but also fun to hang out with, making this part especially lively.

Olstofa Kormaks og Skjaldar: Unique Brews & the Beer Ban

The final stop is at Olstofa Kormaks og Skjaldar, where you’ll sample an award-winning Icelandic beer and learn about the history behind Iceland’s beer ban. It’s fascinating to think that for over seven decades, Icelanders couldn’t legally buy beer, a fact that surprises many visitors. This bar is praised for offering one of the best opportunities to try a rare, locally brewed beer you can’t find elsewhere.

Your guide will share stories about how the ban affected Icelandic society, adding a layer of cultural insight. The 45-minute visit here feels like the perfect way to wrap up, leaving you with memorable tastes and stories.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What’s Not

All beverages are included, covering a range of Icelandic craft beers and snaps, which simplifies the experience—no need to hunt for drinks afterward. The guide’s expertise adds value beyond just tasting; they enrich your understanding of local brewing traditions and laws.

However, note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from the meeting point. The tour operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately, especially given Iceland’s unpredictable weather.

Is It Worth the Price?

At around $172.50 per person, this experience is definitely an investment, but it’s one that pays off if you value a personalized, relaxed exploration of Reykjavik’s drinks scene. The private aspect means you get tailored stories, which many reviews praise highly. Plus, the inclusion of multiple tastings and the chance to learn quirky Icelandic drinking laws makes it a richer experience than a standard bar crawl.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy craft beers, spirits, and engaging storytelling. It’s ideal if you prefer a more intimate, relaxed experience over large group tours. It’s also perfect for those interested in Iceland’s unique alcohol history—like the 74-year beer ban—or for anyone wanting to sample Icelandic brews that are hard to find elsewhere.

If you’re traveling with a group of friends or a partner and want a fun, cultural activity that includes good drinks and stories, this will hit the mark. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and a flexible, private experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

For anyone curious about Iceland’s craft beer scene and history, this private tour offers a well-rounded taste of Reykjavik’s drinking culture. It’s not just about drinking; it’s about understanding the stories behind the drinks and the places where they’re poured. The guides are enthusiastic and full of interesting anecdotes, making each stop memorable.

While it’s a bit pricier than group tours, the personal attention and insider knowledge are worth the extra cost for many. If you love exploring local flavors and stories in a relaxed setting, this tour will satisfy both your curiosity and your palate.

Whether you’re a beer lover or just eager to experience Iceland’s quirky drinking history, this private Reykjavik Beer & Booze Tour is a thoughtful way to connect with local culture and enjoy some fantastic drinks along the way.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point at Ingólfur Square.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are all drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes all alcoholic beverages, such as Icelandic craft beers and snaps, so you can relax and focus on enjoying the experience.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Since alcohol is a key part of the tour, it’s best suited for those who enjoy drinks. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, you might want to consider other experiences.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans change.

What is the minimum age for participation?
Participants must be at least 20 years old, in line with Iceland’s legal drinking age.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 17 days ahead, as the tour is popular and fills up quickly.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour operates in all conditions. Layers and waterproof clothing are advisable given Iceland’s unpredictable climate.

This private Reykjavik Beer & Booze Tour offers more than just a tasting — it provides a lively, personalized window into Iceland’s unique alcohol history and craft beer scene, guided by locals who love sharing their stories. Perfect for those wanting a memorable, authentic experience with a good drink in hand.