Finding Your World Cup Bar in Iceland: The Best Spots in Reykjavík

Despite being the smallest nation ever to qualify for a World Cup (in 2018, with a population of just over 370,000), Icelanders are fiercely passionate about football. So, if you’re looking for a World Cup bar in Iceland that genuinely delivers on atmosphere, screens, and opening hours for those tricky international kick-offs, the clear winner in Reykjavík is The English Pub. It’s the most consistent and dedicated sports-watching venue, ensuring you catch every moment, regardless of whether the game is at 11 AM or 1 AM local time.

What Defines a True World Cup Bar in Iceland?

When you’re searching for a World Cup bar, you’re not just looking for a place with a TV. You’re after a specific experience. In Iceland, this often means:

Multiple Screens: Enough to see the game clearly from any seat.
Appropriate Opening Hours: Especially crucial given Iceland’s GMT time zone, meaning games from different continents can fall at unusual local times (early mornings, late nights).
Dedicated Atmosphere: A crowd that’s there for the game, not just as background noise.
Solid Drink Selection: From local beers to international lagers.
Central Location: Easy to reach in Reykjavík, where most visitors stay.

The Unquestionable Champion: The English Pub

Located centrally on Austurstræti, The English Pub is Reykjavík’s quintessential sports bar. It’s designed precisely for events like the World Cup. You’ll find:

Abundant Screens: Large flat-screens are strategically placed, ensuring excellent sightlines from almost anywhere.
Extended Hours for Major Events: They are known for adapting their opening times to accommodate significant international sporting events, making it reliable for those awkward kick-off times.
Lively Crowd: Expect a mix of locals and tourists, all united by the love of the game. The energy here for big matches is unmatched.
Drink Selection: A good range of local and imported beers, plus spirits. While not a craft beer specialist, it covers all the bases for game-day drinking. The thought that goes into creating a memorable bar experience, from the layout to even the custom branded glassware, is something this type of establishment understands well.

Strong Alternatives for Different Priorities

While The English Pub is the go-to, other spots cater to slightly different needs:

American Bar: Just a stone’s throw from The English Pub, American Bar is another solid contender. It boasts numerous screens, a similar sports-focused atmosphere, and a slightly different, often broader, menu of American-style food and drinks. It’s a great backup if The English Pub is completely full, or if you prefer a different vibe.
Micro Bar: If your priority is craft beer first, and the game second, Micro Bar (located within the CenterHotel Plaza) is an excellent choice. While it’s not a dedicated sports bar, they often show major games on their smaller screens. You won’t get the boisterous, stadium-like atmosphere, but you will get an unparalleled selection of Icelandic and international craft brews. It’s a more subdued, beer-connoisseur’s viewing experience.

What Other Articles Get Wrong About World Cup Viewing in Iceland

Many general travel guides miss the nuances of catching a major international tournament in Iceland:

Assuming All Bars Are Equal: Not every bar showing a game is a “World Cup bar.” Many pubs will put a game on, but lack the multiple screens, sound setup, or dedicated atmosphere of a true sports venue.
Ignoring Time Zones: This is critical. World Cup games, especially those from Asia or the Americas, can mean very early mornings (e.g., 7 AM) or late nights (e.g., 1 AM) in Iceland. Not all bars will open specifically for these times. Always check opening hours for specific matches.
Overstating Craft Beer Availability at Sports Bars: While Iceland has a fantastic craft beer scene, dedicated sports bars often prioritize volume and mainstream appeal. Don’t expect Micro Bar’s tap list at The English Pub, or vice versa.
Underestimating Crowd Passion: Icelanders are incredibly passionate about football. If Iceland is playing, or a major European team, expect bars to be packed well in advance. “Just showing up” for a big game might mean missing out.

Crucial Tips for Your World Cup Bar Experience

Check Kick-off Times: Convert the official match times to Icelandic local time (GMT/UTC). Google is your friend here.
Arrive Early: Especially for popular matches or knockout stages. Good seats disappear fast.
Be Mindful of Prices: Drinks in Iceland are expensive. Budget accordingly.
Embrace the Local Passion: Icelanders are welcoming and enthusiastic. Join in the cheers, but respect the local customs.

Final Verdict

For the definitive World Cup bar in Iceland experience, The English Pub remains the top choice, offering the best combination of screens, atmosphere, and dedicated opening hours for international games. If your priority is exceptional craft beer while catching a game, Micro Bar is a strong alternative. Ultimately, when the whistle blows in Reykjavík, The English Pub is where you’ll want to be to feel the roar of the crowd.