Insider tips for Reykjavík: Life is gay!

Kristján welcomes you to Iceland! He is been a host on misterb&b for quite a while now and he's ready to give you a heads-up on Reykjavík's gay life. As a matter of fact, there are just a few specifically gay venues in the city. But that's no bad news, it just means a peculiar sense of openness and acceptance. Enjoy this reading and follow Kristjàn's tips about Reykjavík.

What makes your city a favorite gay destination?

Reykjavík is unique in many aspects which makes it attractive as a gay destination. It’s the small capital of an impressive country where nature is at its wildest expression. The country is very open towards gay rights and freedom is one of the basic pillars of Icelandic society. Moreover, the Church of Iceland accepts gay marriage in their churches!

What is the best gay event that takes place in your city?

Gay Pride has become a very big event in Reykjavík. Actually it is the second biggest event in Iceland after National Day. Gay Pride is held every August and everyone (not only gay people) takes part in it. One can see children or older people holding rainbow flags everywhere in town and the whole city is a rainbow of colors. It’s a Gay Pride different from anything one can see elsewhere…

What is your favorite gay establishment to grab a bite for lunch? a nice dinner?

There is only one gay establishment (a bar) in Reykjavík. The city is very open and gay people actually feel comfortable in any place in town, reducing the need for places specifically directed to gay people. I particularly like to have an informal lunch at an excellent gay-owned Indian restaurant (Austurlanda Hraðlestin, or Orient Express in English), or a nice dinner at the recently opened Essentia (make sure you book in advance!). 

Best gay bar for a cheap beer?

Beer has become a very popular drink after ban was lifted in 1989! A popular place for gay people might be Bravó, which is just below the gay club Kiki, and many people consider both places as just the same bar (they are located in the same house). 

Best gay bar for a refreshing cocktail?

I particularly love the original cocktails (with an Indian taste) served at the lounge of Austur-Indíafélagið, considered one of the best restaurants in Iceland. Alternatively, cocktails served at the terrace of Petersen Svítan are a great experience in a good-weather day.

Which famous LGBTQI celebrity is from your city?

Despite the fact that any gay person in Iceland can be considered “well-known” there due to a total population of around 350.000 people, some of them have achieved to become “kind of” known abroad too. You might remember Páll Óskar, who managed to make some headlines for his performance in Eurovision 1997?

Ready to go dancing--what is the best gay dance club?

The “best” and actually “only” gay dance club is Kiki. Be prepared for an unforgettable experience, but please go there without any expectations… ;) If you are there for gay pride, make sure you check the special events organized during that weekend.

Which gay bar offers the best happy hour on a Wednesday?

As there is a state monopoly on alcohol in Iceland, prices can be quite high and it is difficult to find “happy hours” there as you might find elsewhere. If you want to save on drinks, just stick to beer or make sure to pack a bottle of alcohol in your suitcase. ☺ 

Where to start a gay tour in your home city?

Reykjavík is a rather small city and everything that is worth seeing is at walking distance and can be seen in a day. If you want to experience daily life like an Icelander would do, make sure you visit one of the geothermal swimming pools in the city, which serve as social clubs for us!

Best place to be surrounded by the local gays?

I can provide a couple of phone numbers. ;)

How gay-friendly is your home city?

Reykjavík is not only gay-friendly but actually takes all gay issues for granted. All city corners will be a safe and great location for a sweet gay kiss.

A gay place for brunch on weekends?

Again not gay, but I like both Kex and Snaps.

What is gay life like in Reykjavík?

As there is only one gay place in Reykjavík, one can say that gay life is almost inexistent. However, the whole city is very open and gay people can be spotted at any location! Life is gay!