Reykjavik Nightlife
Reykjavik is well known for its modern, urbane and uninhibited nightlife. There are a huge number of bars and clubs to choose from and the general feeling is that anything goes. Prices however are high, indeed the country is one of the most expensive in Europe, so Brits looking for a cheap stag weekend may have to consider elsewhere.
Kaffibarinn on Bergstaoastræti is widely regarded as one of the hippest bars in town and the place where local celebrities go to unwind and be spotted. Notoriously difficult to get in on the weekdays.
The nearby Hverfisbarinn is another location for those looking for a touch of class. Popular with well-heeled students, this place is easier to get in on the weekends although the queue is often off putting. Live music can often be enjoyed on a Thursday evening.
Sirkus on Klapparstigur is a good spot to try if alternative bars are your kind of thing. Bus seats, fairy lights and a garden that is open in the summer combine to make a wonderfully different experience.
If all these bars sound a little too arty farty for your taste, try the recently renovated Dillon beer hall on Laugavegur. Plenty of beer and live rock music to enjoy here.
Or if it's dancing you're after, the biggest nightclub in town is Nasa on Thorvaldsenstræti, which again is a popular hangout with those able to splash the cash. Do your drinking before you arrive as the prices are high even by Icelandic standards.
One of the city's more unusual clubs is Pravda, based in an old police station on Austurstræti. Four bars and a large dance floor make for a great evening in this unique venue.
The National Theatre of Iceland is the place to go if you fancy a theatrical production one evening. Widely regarded as the city's premier theatrical establishment, some 300 productions are put on each year although, like many others, it is closed in the summer months.
Eating out in Iceland can also be an expensive business although if your pockets can stand it, the local seafood and lamb are superb. Your best bet for a decently priced meal may be to head to a local café for some good tucker or search out one of the many lunchtime options and fill up.
Café Cultura on Hverfisgata is a hip joint, with a decently priced menu. Dishes are of the Arabic and Mediterranean type, with plenty of falafel and couscous. Turns in to a bar late on weekends.
Veggies will enjoy the A Næstu Grosum establishment on Laugavegur. Customers will be offered only seasonal, organic produce here and Friday and Saturday nights have an Indian bent.
Grænn Kostur on Skolavoroustigur is another decently priced vegetarian option, with a special two-for-one offer available on Sundays.
Lastly, for the best in seafood, head to Vio Tjornina on Templarasund in the old town where swanky 1930s-style interior is coupled with great cooking and ingredients.
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Nightlife and Eating & Drinking
