Reykjavik isn’t just about stunning landscapes and geothermal pools — it’s also a fantastic place to explore Iceland’s emerging craft beer scene. The city’s mix of innovative microbreweries and traditional distilleries makes for some memorable brewery tours. We especially like the Reykjavik Food Tour – Supermarket Tour & Lunch at Microbrewery for its blend of local food culture and exclusive beer tastings, giving you a deeper appreciation for Icelandic flavors. If you’re keen on learning about brewing processes and sampling spirits, the Reykjavik: Microbrewery and Distillery Private Tour offers a more in-depth look, with a relaxed private setting. For those who want a comprehensive experience, the Reykjavik: Private Brewery & Beer Tasting Tour combines visits to two microbreweries with detailed insights into Icelandic brewing traditions. Whichever you choose, Reykjavik’s beer scene provides a taste of the local craft revolution in a country known for its rugged climate and fresh ingredients.
Quick Overview
This list covers three top Reykjavik brewery tours, each with a different focus:
– The Reykjavik Food Tour – Supermarket Tour & Lunch at Microbrewery emphasizes local food paired with craft beer in a small-group setting. []
– The Reykjavik: Microbrewery and Distillery Private Tour dives into Iceland’s brewing and distilling process with tastings of both beers and spirits. []
– The Reykjavik: Private Brewery & Beer Tasting Tour explores two microbreweries, focusing on the history and local ingredients behind Iceland’s craft beer. []
1. Reykjavik Food Tour – Supermarket Tour & Lunch at Microbrewery
This popular tour offers a perfect way to get to know Icelandic food and beer in a relaxed, small-group setting. It begins with a visit to a grocery store on Laugavegur, Reykjavik’s main shopping street. Here, you’ll learn about Iceland’s staple ingredients—thinkSkyr, haddock, and reindeer meat—and how they feature in local cuisine. Afterward, the tour moves to a microbrewery that’s exclusively reserved for the group. At this cozy spot, you’ll sample local craft brews alongside traditional dishes like smoked salmon or lamb, gaining a sense of how Icelanders enjoy their beer with food.
What makes this tour stand out is its immersive approach. You’re not just tasting but also learning about Iceland’s food culture and common ingredients. The tour’s reviews praise its authenticity and the opportunity to try a variety of Icelandic dishes—plus, the private microbrewery experience feels exclusive. The tasting of local craft brews complements the food perfectly, and the guide’s insights make the experience both fun and educational.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want a relaxed introduction to Icelandic cuisine paired with craft beer, with the chance to shop local and learn what makes Icelandic food unique.
2. Reykjavik: Microbrewery and Distillery Private Tour
At number two on our list, this private tour takes you behind the scenes of Reykjavik’s brewing and distilling scene. Starting with a comfortable ride in a private vehicle, you’ll visit a microbrewery where you’ll learn about Iceland’s brewing history and the craft process. The guide walks you through the steps of brewing beer, explaining how Iceland’s harsh climate influences beer styles and ingredients. The tour continues to a distillery, where you’ll see how spirits like Icelandic gin and schnapps are made, then sample these on-site.
This tour is especially appealing for those who want a more tailored experience. The private setting means personalized attention, and the guide’s knowledge about Iceland’s brewing traditions adds depth. The cost reflects its exclusivity, which makes it better suited for enthusiasts willing to spend more for an in-depth experience. The reviews mention how friendly and informative the guides are, and guests appreciate the variety of tastings at both locations.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers interested in the science and history of Icelandic brewing and distilling, seeking a private, immersive experience in a relaxed setting.
$451 per person
3. Reykjavik: Private Brewery & Beer Tasting Tour
This tour offers a comprehensive look at Reykjavik’s microbrewing scene, visiting two different microbreweries. It combines insights into the brewing process with tastings of a variety of beers produced on-site. The local driver guide shares stories about how Iceland’s harsh environment influences beer ingredients and production techniques. Guests get to sample different styles, from pale ales to darker stouts, and learn about the unique challenges of making beer in Iceland.
What sets this experience apart is its focus on craft beer diversity and the history of microbrewing in the country. The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, making it a full but manageable experience. The reviews highlight the friendly guides and the quality of the beer tastings. This tour is particularly suited for those who want a deeper understanding of Iceland’s craft beer culture without the crowds.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for beer connoisseurs and curious travelers who want to explore Reykjavik’s microbreweries in a private setting with detailed explanations and tastings.
$447 per person
How to Choose
When deciding among these tours, consider your budget, interests, and how deep you want your beer experience to be. If you’re looking for an affordable, food-focused introduction, the Reykjavik Food Tour is ideal. For a more personalized, comprehensive dive into brewing and spirits, the private options (Microbrewery and Distillery, Brewery & Beer Tasting) offer the most detailed experiences.
If your schedule is tight, the food and beer pairing tour is a shorter, relaxed way to get a taste of local flavors. For serious beer enthusiasts interested in the details of Iceland’s brewing traditions, the private brewery tour provides a rich, behind-the-scenes look. Booking early is recommended, especially in summer, when Reykjavik’s craft scene is bustling.
Reykjavik’s brewery scene offers everything from casual tastings to deep dives into brewing history. Whether you want to sample local beers with food, explore distilling, or visit two microbreweries in one go, the options are diverse enough to match your interests and budget. Whichever you pick, you’ll come away with a new appreciation for how Iceland’s rugged environment shapes its craft beverages—something worth raising a glass to.