Reykjavik: Eimverk Distillery Guided Tour with Tasting

Imagine stepping into a small, family-run distillery right in Reykjavik, where you get to see the entire process of making Iceland’s only whiskey, sample premium gin, and taste the iconic Víti Brennivín. For just $34, this 75-minute tour offers an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at a burgeoning Icelandic spirits scene. Led by knowledgeable guides who combine storytelling with expertise, this experience packs a punch—literally and figuratively.

What we love most about this tour is the personal touch. You’re not just another face in a crowd; you get to ask questions, take photos of the production process, and truly appreciate how much craftsmanship goes into these spirits. Plus, the tasting session is generous, offering more than just a sip or two. On top of that, the tour’s affordability makes it a fantastic value for anyone curious about Icelandic alcohol or just looking for a fun, educational outing.

That said, it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include transportation — so you’ll need to plan your arrival via public transit or walk. Also, if you’re traveling with children under 18, this tour isn’t suitable. Otherwise, if you’re a fan of spirits, craft drinks, or story-rich experiences, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Who is this tour perfect for?

It’s ideal for curious travelers eager to learn about Iceland’s unique distilling tradition, fans of spirit tastings, or those looking to add a distinctive local experience to their Reykjavik itinerary. It’s also a good fit for anyone who appreciates good stories paired with high-quality drinks, as the guides share plenty of fascinating facts and entertaining tales.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic insight into Iceland’s small but proud spirits industry
• Generous tastings of whiskey, gin, and Brennivín with personalized attention
• Educational experience covering the entire production process, from barley to bottle
• Accessible location easily reachable via public transit or walking
• Family-run charm and friendly guides make the experience welcoming
• Great value at $34 for 75 minutes of hands-on learning and tasting

A Close Look at the Reykjavik Eimverk Distillery Tour

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

The tour begins with an introduction in the tasting room, where your guide—often a friendly local with a wealth of knowledge—welcomes you with a complimentary drink that sets the tone. You’ll quickly learn about Iceland’s surprising history with spirits, especially considering the country’s anti-alcohol laws of the past. The guide might share how spirits like Brennivín became Iceland’s signature drink during prohibition, giving you a bit of local flavor before tasting begins.

After the intro, it’s time for the fun part: the tasting. As you sip on Iceland’s first and only whiskey, Flóki, along with Vor Premium Gin and Víti Brennivín, your guide will explain what makes these spirits special. You might find the whiskey particularly intriguing because of how the distillery uses all Icelandic ingredients—something that sets Eimverk apart. The range of spirits means there’s plenty to sample, and reviews confirm that many guests enjoy getting more than just a small taste—some mention trying up to a dozen different drinks.

The second part of the tour takes you behind the scenes into the production area. Here, you’ll see the barley harvesting process, the fermentation tanks, and the distillation equipment. It’s quite fascinating to witness the craftsmanship firsthand, especially since the guide will walk you through each step, highlighting how Icelandic climate and ingredients influence the flavors. Expect to take some photos—many visitors find this part especially photogenic and interesting.

After exploring the production area, everyone returns to the tasting room for the final round of sampling. This is where the stories and explanations deepen; your guide will share tidbits about how each spirit is crafted, aged, and best enjoyed. The experience is interactive—feel free to ask questions, discuss flavor notes, or even get tips on how to serve your favorite spirit back home.

Why the Experience Stands Out

One of the most praised aspects is the personalized attention. With small group sizes, guides can really engage with each guest, sharing stories and answering questions. As one reviewer mentions, “Paul was absolutely incredible! Great tour with in-depth technical knowledge and a great storyteller.” This level of detail makes the experience far more memorable than a typical, large-scale tour.

Another standout is the quality of the tastings. Guests often note that they were surprised by the variety and the amount of spirits offered—some mention trying nine or more different drinks during their session. The guides also share useful tips on how to appreciate different notes and flavors, making this more than just a drinking session; it’s a mini masterclass.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details: Transportation, Timing, and Cost

Getting to the distillery is straightforward. You can take bus number 1 from downtown Reykjavik to Ásgarður, then walk about 8 minutes. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics simple. No hotel pickup or food is included, so plan accordingly—consider grabbing a meal before or after if you’re hungry.

At $34 per person, the tour is remarkably good value considering the length, guided expertise, and variety of spirits you taste. Compared to similar experiences worldwide, this price provides a lot of insight and enjoyment without breaking the bank. Plus, the tour is wheelchair accessible and available in English and Icelandic, making it accessible for many.

Guest Reviews: Authentic Feedback

Visitors consistently praise the friendly guides and the depth of knowledge. Comments like “our guide Eva told us the whole history from the distillery and how it’s connected with Iceland’s history” show how educational and engaging these guides are. Many mention the generous tastings and how the experience adds a flavorful, fun dimension to their trip.

Some appreciate the “small-group” feeling, saying things like, “only 4 of us made it feel very personal.” Others note that the tasting variety exceeds expectations—one reviewer even mentions trying twelve different spirits. The overall consensus is that this tour hits the sweet spot of being informative, fun, and delicious.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an activity that combines local craftsmanship, a taste of Icelandic culture, and the chance to try unique spirits, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially suited for those with a curiosity about alcohol, a love of storytelling, or even just a desire to support small, family-run businesses. The experience’s affordability makes it a worthwhile addition to any Reykjavik itinerary, especially if you want to venture beyond the usual sightseeing routine.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for spirits enthusiasts eager to learn about Iceland’s homegrown whiskey, gin, and Brennivín. It’s also a hit with anyone who enjoys small-group, personal tours that feel both educational and relaxed. If you’re a history buff or someone interested in traditional Icelandic ingredients and culture, you’ll find plenty of stories and insights to savor.

While not suitable for children under 18, adults of all ages will find this a fun, delicious way to spend an hour and a quarter in Reykjavik. Whether you’re visiting for a short time or looking for a memorable way to deepen your understanding of Iceland’s local produce, this tour offers a truly authentic taste.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 75 minutes, making it a convenient and engaging activity without taking up your entire day.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the distillery, which is accessible via bus number 1 from downtown Reykjavik to Ásgarður, followed by an 8-minute walk. The tour ends back at the starting point.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way there, but public transit and walking are easy options.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided tour, a welcome drink, and tastings of three premium spirits: Flóki whiskey, Vor Premium Gin, and Víti Brennivín.

Are children allowed?
No, the tour is not suitable for guests under 18 years old.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible.

Can I buy bottles to take home?
Yes, guests can purchase bottles at the distillery shop, which is perfect if you want to bring a piece of Icelandic craftsmanship home.

What is the typical group size?
While larger groups are possible, many reviews mention small, intimate groups that enhance interaction and personalization.

Final Summary

For travelers looking to add an authentic, locally crafted experience to their Reykjavik trip, the Eimverk Distillery tour hits all the right notes. You’ll gain a genuine understanding of Iceland’s emerging spirits industry, enjoy generous tastings, and pick up a few stories along the way. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge make all the difference, turning what might seem like a simple tasting into a memorable journey through Icelandic tradition.

If you love discovering new flavors, learning about local manufacturing, or simply want a fun, relaxed activity that offers real insight, this tour deserves a place on your Iceland itinerary. It’s great value, personable, and offers a taste of Iceland that you’ll likely remember long after the drinks are gone.

You can check availability for your dates here: