Reykjavik: Magic Ice Bar Entrance and Welcome Drink

Magic Ice Bar in Reykjavik is interesting because you walk into an entire room made of ice, then let Viking stories play out on the walls as you sip something cold. I love the sheer scale, 60+ tons of ice carved by international artists, and I love that your included signature drink comes in an ice glass you can actually hold.

Here is the one consideration. At $34 per person, it is not a long multi-course night. The venue can also feel smaller than first-time expectations, so go in wanting a high-impact, short stop with great photos, not a half-day production.

Key highlights worth your time

• Iceland’s only ice bar and gallery: a true themed stop, not a quick gimmick.
• 60+ tons of ice sculptures: carved by international ice artists with Viking-inspired storytelling.
• Poncho and gloves on arrival: warm comfort for your first steps into the cold.
• Signature drink in an ice glass: included, and it is part of the experience.
• Photo-friendly ice details: staff help you get shots while you explore.
• Viking sailor myths in ice: the carvings are meant to tell a story, not just look pretty.

Ice Bar Reykjavik Below Álafoss, with Viking Carvings in Every Direction

You do not come to Magic Ice Bar for a normal drink and a normal night out. You come because the whole setting is made to change your senses fast: cold air, ice textures, and carvings tied to Viking life and Norse seafaring myths.

The concept is simple, and it works. You step into the arctic-like room, you look closely at the ice gallery, and your included drink gives you a clear reason to slow down instead of rushing through.

This is also a good choice when Reykjavik weather has you tired. Iceland outdoors can be dramatic, but inside you get a different kind of drama, controlled by temperature and design.

Finding the entrance, heading downstairs through Álafoss

The meeting point is practical and easy to spot once you know the landmark. The ice bar is located below the Álafoss store, and you head downstairs through the store to reach the entry.

If you are starting your day or evening downtown, this location is handy because it is close to other city plans. It also makes it easy to fit in as a break between sightseeing stops.

Aim to arrive a little ready to go. Cold hits fast once you are inside, and having your layers on before you descend makes the whole experience feel smoother.

Poncho and gloves: what to wear for comfort in the ice bar

The first thing you will notice is how the staff set you up for the cold. You are given complimentary poncho and gloves, which helps a lot when you are standing still to look at carvings or posing for photos.

Still, bring warm clothing even with the poncho. Think layers you can move in, not just a heavy coat you can’t breathe in. Also, bring your camera, because the carvings are detailed and designed for close viewing.

One of the best parts is that the cold is not random. It is part of the experience design, and the staff help you manage it so you can enjoy the art instead of just surviving it.

Walking through the Viking ice gallery, and why the story matters

Once you pass the entry threshold, you move into an ice room where walls are covered in carved scenes and Viking-inspired storytelling. The carvings connect to Norwegian Viking sailors who crossed the rough Atlantic seas, seeking a new life in the land of fire and ice.

That story detail is the difference between this and generic winter theming. The ice is not only decorative. It is arranged so you can read it like a gallery, moving your eyes across scenes instead of only looking at the bar counter.

Expect more than one style of ice work. The gallery includes carved ice sculptures and additional intricate pieces that make the space feel like a small museum. If you like taking your time, you can settle into a slow walk and keep spotting new shapes.

60+ tons of ice art, with photo spots that staff actively help

Magic Ice Bar’s big draw is scale. The venue features over 60 tons of ice carved by international artists, so you are not just looking at a couple of statues. You are surrounded.

It also helps that the staff focus on making the visit feel fun right away. Many hosts are friendly and attentive, and some are especially good at photo help. In real visits, I have heard names like Roman, Kris, Juliana, and Asteris come up for great support with photos and playful energy.

You should plan to take photos as you explore, because the ice surfaces and carved scenes make natural backgrounds. You will also find spots that invite selfies, and you may even spot a seating-style ice feature people love for pictures, depending on how the layout looks at your time slot.

Do not rush. If you spend 10 minutes looking closely at the carvings before you check your phone camera settings, you will get better shots and you will enjoy the art more.

Your included signature drink in an ice glass, plus what to expect

Your entry includes a welcome drink and it is served in a glass made of ice. This is one of those small details that changes the whole visit, because you get a souvenir feel without needing to buy anything extra.

The drink is described as locally-sourced, and it is typically served as your first reason to linger inside. Extra drinks are available for purchase if you want to turn it into a longer hang.

The practical tip is to take a moment before you drink. With poncho and gloves on, it can take a second to feel steady enough to hold the icy glass. Once you do, it becomes a fun ritual, and you can sip while you watch the lighting and shadows move across the ice.

Not everyone feels the same about the value of the drink, so the smartest approach is to treat it as part of the ice bar experience, not as a standalone cocktail deal.

Price and value, is $34 actually fair for a short ice bar visit?

Let’s talk money in plain terms. At $34 per person, you are paying for: entry to a themed ice bar and gallery, one included signature drink, and warm gear in the form of a poncho and gloves.

That can feel pricey if you only want a quick drink and you are expecting something like a full evening out. Some people even call the experience underwhelming in size, which matters because you are not getting a huge multi-room complex.

On the other hand, the ice itself is the product. Over 60 tons of sculpted ice is not cheap to create or maintain, and the venue has staff attention that turns it into a guided, photo-friendly stop.

If you like one-of-a-kind settings, good photo moments, and the novelty of drinking from an actual ice glass, this price starts to make sense. If you want a long, filling night, you might be happier pairing the ice bar with a real Reykjavik dinner after.

Best time to go: fit it into your Reykjavik rhythm

Because you book an admission with a valid day and starting times, you can usually pick a slot that matches your schedule. Some people enjoy going earlier for a calmer, less crowded feel, especially if they are traveling with someone who prefers fewer crowds.

If you are doing a tight itinerary, this stop works as a mid-day break. It also works as an evening activity when you want a warm, controlled indoor diversion after time in colder weather.

I like using it as a checkpoint. You can see the city, then come in for something visually different, and finish your day with dinner and a stroll through downtown.

Who should book this ice bar experience, and who might skip it

You should book if you want an unusual Reykjavik activity that is built around atmosphere. It is great for couples, friends, and solo travelers, and it is also workable for families since the concept is straightforward and staff are helpful with photos.

It is also a strong choice when you are trying to balance Iceland’s cold weather with an indoor attraction that still feels Icelandic. You get ice, Viking stories, and a drink that fits the theme without needing special skills.

Skip it if your idea of value is a long time commitment. This is a focused visit, not a day-long tour. Also, if ice-themed rooms make you feel too cold for too long, plan your time inside and wear your warm layers confidently.

Good to know: the host or greeter is English-speaking, and the venue is wheelchair accessible. That makes it easier for a wider range of travelers to enjoy the setting.

Should you book Magic Ice Bar in Reykjavik?

If you want a quick, memorable, photo-friendly Iceland stop, I think it is an easy yes. The included poncho and gloves help you enjoy the cold instead of fighting it, and the Viking ice gallery plus an ice-glass signature drink is a neat combo you cannot replicate anywhere else.

If you are price-sensitive or you expect a huge complex, consider setting lower expectations and pairing it with a longer plan outside. I would book it as a highlight, then let Reykjavik do the rest of the day with food, views, and walking.

FAQ

What is included with Magic Ice Bar entrance?

Your ticket includes Magic Ice Bar entry, one welcome drink, and complimentary poncho and gloves.

Is the welcome drink included in the price?

Yes. Your admission includes one signature welcome drink served in an ice glass.

Where is the ice bar located?

It is located below the Álafoss store. You go downstairs through the store to reach the venue.

How long is the experience?

The ticket is valid for 1 day. You should check availability to see starting times.

Is there an option to buy extra drinks?

Yes. Additional drinks are available to purchase.

What should I bring?

Bring warm clothing and a camera, since you will want to capture the ice sculptures and carvings.

What languages are offered by the host or greeter?

The host or greeter is English-speaking.

Is Magic Ice Bar wheelchair accessible?

Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I reserve and pay later?

Yes. You can reserve now and pay later, so you can book your spot without paying today.