Top Karaoke Bars In Reykjavik

In the spirit of Iceland launching what some are calling ‘the hardest karaoke song in the world’, intended to acquaint people with the notoriously difficult Icelandic language, we take a look at the best places in Reykjavik where you can freely experience the trials and tribulations of karaoke.

1. KEX Hostel

Building

KEX Hostel is a popular place for tourists and locals alike. The warm, well-placed vintage decor and interesting past (it was a biscuit factory) makes this one of the city’s best bars. They have an excellent menu and great craft beers on tap. The weekly rotation of live music and gigs features karaoke, jazz, and a variety of festivals and concerts.

2. Oddsson Bazaar

Bar, Restaurant, Icelandic

This cool bar has its own private karaoke room, making it one of the most convenient places to bring a private group or hold an event. Located in a historic building outside downtown Reykjavik with a beautiful view of the North Atlantic Ocean, this place is expertly designed and has a Miami mid-90s vibe with plenty of plants and gold touches. They also have weekly scheduled yoga and meditation, as well as an excellent restaurant.

3. Gaukurinn

Bar, Nightclub, Icelandic

This downtown bar and venue has a hard-rock vibe and plays host to a weekly rotation of events including karaoke, stand-up comedy, open-mic nights, drag-shows, cabaret, and a variety of concerts and festivals. You can find a little bit of everything at this grungy dive.

4. Sæta Svínið Gastropub

This downtown gastropub hosts karaoke nights on Wednesdays starting at 9:00 pm. Icelandic singer and disco style diva, Þórunn Antonía, hosts this evening of party karaoke in the basement of the pub with the country’s up-and-coming DJ act, DJ Dóra Júlía. This live entertainment is open to everyone.

Sæta Svínið Gastropub, Hafnarstræti, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland, +354 555 2900

5. Glaumbar

When speaking of the top bars in Reykjavik, Glaumbar is often forgotten because of its slightly run-down character. However, sometimes these off-the-map places can make the most memorable karaoke experiences as there is absolutely no standard to uphold. The weekly line-up changes so check in when you visit to see exactly when they will be hosting their next lively karaoke night.

Glaumbar, Tryggvagata 20/101, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland, +354 552 6868

Loft Hostel | © ActiveSteve/Flickr

6. Loft Hostel

Bar, American, Northern European

This eco-friendly downtown hostelboasts a cafe, bar, and simple stage setup. Throughout the week you can find all kinds of activities ranging from workshops and clothing swaps to poetry readings and karaoke. Check their website for exact dates and times.

7. Ölver Sportbarinn

This bar is the classic sports bar and has been around since 1984, back when beer was still illegal. It hosts many sporting event viewings that are a delight to watch on the 20 screens surrounding the place. See the list of karaoke songs on their website before you visit for their weekly karaoke night.
Ölver Sportbarinn, Álfheimar 74, Reykjavík, Iceland

Kiki Queer Bar | © TravelingOtter/Flickr

8. Kíkí Bar

Nightclub, Gay Bar, Icelandic

Kiki Queer Bar is the place to let loose on the dance floor

This is the official queer bar of Reykjavik, which, of course, means that everyone is welcome. This vibrant dance club holds a weekly rotation of events including karaoke, live DJs, and themed nights. It is an especially popular place to go dancing after the Eurovision song contest or during the Gay Pride Festival.

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