When most people picture Iceland, they tend to imagine dramatic waterfalls, glittering Northern Lights, glaciers, and sweeping landscapes. But after the sun goes down, the island comes alive in a very different way. Nightlife in Iceland blends Reykjavík’s buzzing bar scene and club culture with unique after-dark experiences you simply won’t find anywhere else. Fancy a geothermal pool party at night? Or maybe a live music festival beneath the midnight sun? Anything is possible in Iceland. 

Whether you’re eager to sample craft beers or unique cocktails, watch live performances, or just find a quiet corner for conversation, experiencing Reykjavík’s nightlife is an essential part of your trip.

Why Reykjavík is the Heart of Iceland’s Nightlife

When it comes to nightlife in Iceland, Reykjavík is the heartbeat. The capital city of Iceland may be small compared to other European cities, but the nightlife scene is famously energetic and diverse. Over the weekends, bars and clubs stay open until 4 am or 5 am, and the streets around both Laugavegur and Austurstræti are transformed into a happening hub of dancing, music, and laughter. 

The nightlife in Reykjavík offers something for everyone, from intimate pubs where you can sample local craft beers, sleek cocktail bars serving Nordic-inspired menus, and late-night clubs pumping with music from DJs from all over the globe. The city’s relaxed mood means there’s no need to pack in adherence to a strict dress code. Stylish but casual will do just fine.

So whether you’re looking to mingle with the locals, catch some live tunes, or just dance until sunrise, there’s something for you in Reykjavík. 

Best Bars and Clubs in Reykjavík

One of the best things about Reykjavík’s nightlife scene is that it’s so diverse. Reykjavík by dark can be enjoyed in any number of ways. Here, we’ve compiled some of the most popular scenes and venues. 

• Cocktail Bars: Chic spots like Jungle and Slippbarinn are known for delightful cocktails inspired by authentic Icelandic flavours. 

• Craft Beer Pubs: Iceland has a well-established and still growing microbrewery scene. If you’re looking to sample some authentic local beers in a laid-back setting, try Micro Bar or Skúli Craft Bar.

• Live Music Venues: Music is a foundation of Icelandic culture. Venues like Húrra and Kaffibarinn play host to everything from DJs to indie bands.
• Late-night Clubs: For those who want to dance the night away, spots like Pablo Discobar and Paloma are ideal. 

 

Unique Nightlife Experiences in Iceland Beyond Reykjavík

While Iceland’s capital is the hub of nightlife, venturing beyond the city of Reykjavík opens the door to some unforgettable after-dark experiences. With a rental car, you can travel further afield to experience Iceland’s wilder side of nightlife on your own schedule. 

• Geothermal pool parties: The famous Blue Lagoon sometimes hosts evening events with drinks, music, and glowing lava fields serving as a backdrop. Up North, Mývatn Nature Baths offer a more tranquil, though equally unforgettable, way to soak under the stars - free of parties and music, focusing solely on Iceland’s incredible night sky.
• Festivals under the Midnight Sun: Events like Secret Solstice combine live music with the island’s stunning landscapes, keeping the party going all night long - thanks to 24 hours of daylight in late June. 
• Northern Lights gatherings: During the winter, nightlife tends to shift indoors. Joining locals or tour groups to watch the aurora flit across the sky is an experience you’re not likely to forget. 
• Small-town charm: Towns like Akureyri and Ísafjörður might be smaller, but their cosy pubs and atmospheric festivals provide a warm welcome and enjoyable scene. 

Getting out of the city and experiencing Iceland’s nightlife beyond Reykjavík gives you a richer experience of Iceland’s culture. It also gives you the chance to experience Iceland beyond the nightlife, taking in some of the most amazing sights and experiences the country has to offer. 

Tips for Enjoying Icelandic Nightlife

A night out in Iceland is unlike anywhere else, but knowing a few insider tips will make your experience smooth and memorable. 

• Dress code: Most places are fairly casual, but with a lean towards stylish-casual. There’s no need for suits or gowns, but trainers and outdoor gear will likely feel out of place. 

• Age limits: The legal drinking age in Iceland is 20, and IDs are checked at the door.

• Costs & savings: Drinks are expensive compared to other places in Europe. Using apps like Happy Hour helps you track the city’s best happy hour deals. 
• Transport: Taxis can be expensive and sometimes difficult to find late at night, but planning ahead can help ensure you always have the transport you need. 
• Safety: Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and friendly locals almost always willing to lend a hand. Streets are lively and welcoming, though it’s still wise to keep your belongings close in crowded areas and stay with friends in places you are unfamiliar with, especially if enjoying a few drinks. 

Iceland Nightlife FAQs

Let’s take a look at a few more questions about nightlife and drinking in Iceland.

When do clubs open in Iceland?

You’ll typically see nightclubs opening at around 9 or 10 pm in Reykjavík and remaining open until the early hours, usually 1 or 2 am.

What are the drink-drive limits in Iceland?

Like speeding, drink-driving laws and regulations in Iceland are incredibly strict for your and others’ safety. It’s your best bet to never get behind the wheel if you’ve had even 1 drink. If you are tested and found to have more than 0.05% alcohol in your blood, you could lose your license and be eligible for a fine of up to 200,000 ISK.

Where can you purchase alcohol in Iceland?

You can buy alcohol in licensed bars and cafes, but also from off-licenses (Vínbúðin shops). These are shops established by the government to sell alcohol. You won’t find aisles of alcohol in supermarkets, but rather low-alcohol versions of popular beer, so don’t be caught out!

Do Reykjavík clubs have a strict dress code?

As far as dress code goes, Icelanders are not strict. Most will operate a casual but neat vibe, so you shouldn’t have to worry about being refused for your attire.

To sum it up, there’s nothing not to like about a trip to Iceland. From days filled with adventure and incredible sights to nights full of incredible means and buzzing nightlife, there is something for everyone.