The best bars and cafés Iceland

Sifted light, hot dance trail, Austur is a real box where the trendy population of Reykjavik is found to drink a drink along a modern bar or to wiggle all night! Proper attire is desired.

One of those places in Iceland that warms the heart after a hike to the nearby Kvernufoss or Skogafoss waterfalls! With flowers everywhere and chic details right down to the plate, this small café and tea room is well worth a detour during your visit to the museum in which it is located. The menu features savory dishes and salads, but above all delicious pastries and cupcakes. Everything is homemade, with passion and simplicity, and served with a smile. All at reasonable prices, what more could you ask for?

A café as fantastic as its incredible mountain views! Here, you can enjoy a hot drink, cake or soup. The menu is limited, and with good reason: everything is homemade by a couple who will be delighted to welcome you with a smile and a refreshing kindness. When the weather's fine, it's nice to sit out on the outdoor terrace to savor the beauty of a typically Icelandic moment. A must-see stopover if you're in the area.

If you've ever been to Reykjavík, you'll have seen its rainbow-colored facade! So, rather than just photographing it, don't hesitate to push open the door of Bravó. Openly gay-friendly, this bar is great if you fancy a beer to celebrate your arrival in Iceland, even if you're traveling alone. You'll meet tourists here, but also plenty of locals enjoying happy hour. To make sure you have room, don't come too late, as the bar is small and fills up fast!

A place as typical as its facade is atypical with its sign featuring a puffin in costume (just that!)! You are here in the oldest pub of the island, an authentic place in which it is good to have a bite to eat, or simply to have a drink to feel the soul of the place. On the menu, you can find fish and lamb specialities, refreshing drinks. They also serve puffin, as the name of the place suggests. On weekends, there are often concerts on the programme to liven up the place.

This coffee house is located in the oldest stone house in Hafnarfjörður. Here you can eat famous pastries, but also vegetarian dishes, or just have a hot drink. The place is popular with tourists, but also with locals. You can fully feel the past of the place, and a typical Icelandic atmosphere. Moreover, the service is always smiling and welcoming. Perfect to stop for a few minutes, or even a few hours, and live a moment of conviviality.

Located near the Reykjavík flea market, this bookstore-café is very popular with locals and tourists alike. Here, you can have a hot drink to relax, or read a magazine, while observing the comings and goings of passers-by. The atmosphere is warm, the service is attentive and the Wifi is available for free. For those with a sweet tooth, you will find savoury dishes to take a break, or home-made pastries to treat yourself. Ideal for a quick lunch before a sea trip.