Kaffibarinn

Kaffibarinn is one of the best-known bars in Reykjavik and a fixture of the city's nightlife since it opened in 1993. It sits on Bergstaðastræti, just off Laugavegur, and works as a café by day and a bar by night. It gained wider fame when it featured prominently in the 2000 film 101 Reykjavík, directed by Baltasar Kormákur, and it remains a fixture of the city centre.

The music is central to the experience. DJs play every night, starting at 21:30, or at 23:00 on Saturdays, and every Saturday there is also a Straumur concert at 21:30. Weeknights may bring karaoke, vinyl nights or live sets. Upstairs, the second floor shows football, with the rule that whoever holds the remote chooses the game. There is no cover charge, which makes it easy to drop in and see what is on.

Happy hour starts at 15:00 every day, with lower prices on beer and cocktails, and the bar serves coffee and snacks rather than a full food menu, so eat beforehand. The age limit is 20, and valid ID is required at the door. Photography is not allowed inside, which is part of the reason the bar keeps its relaxed, unpretentious feel even on busy nights.

Kaffibarinn opens at 15:00 from Monday to Thursday and at 12:00 at the weekend, closing at 01:00 from Sunday to Thursday and at 04:30 on Friday and Saturday nights. On weekend nights it can be very crowded and you may have to wait to get in, so arrive earlier in the evening if you want space. Hours can change on public holidays; the bar posts special hours on its website.

Reykjavik nights start late: bars are often quiet until around 22:00 and busiest after midnight at weekends, so there is no need to rush out early. Dress warmly for queues outside on winter nights, and keep your ID with you, as door staff check ages.

It suits music lovers, night owls and anyone who wants to experience a long-established Reykjavik bar. If you prefer quieter conversation, visit in the afternoon or early evening. Kaffibarinn is a few steps from Laugavegur and Skólavörðustígur, close to many of the city's other bars, and within an easy walk of most central hotels.