Den Danske Kro
A Danish-themed pub on Ingolfsstræti that has become a beloved Reykjavik institution, offering live music every night, happy hour deals, and a warm, convivial atmosphere.
Iceland spent centuries under Danish rule, and while the political relationship ended in 1944, the cultural connection endures -- nowhere more cheerfully than at Den Danske Kro, the Danish Pub, on Ingolfsstræti. This is Reykjavik's living room bar: a place where everyone is welcome, the music plays every night, and the beer flows until the small hours.
The Atmosphere
Walking into Den Danske Kro feels like walking into a party that has been going on for years and never quite stops. The interior is dark, woody, and decorated with enough Danish and Icelandic memorabilia to keep your eyes busy between drinks. It is perpetually lively without being overwhelming, and the crowd is a healthy mix of locals, expats, and visitors who have been pointed here by someone who knows.
The live music, which starts at 22:00 every night, is a genuine draw. The quality varies -- as it does at any venue that hosts musicians seven nights a week -- but on a good evening, with a talented guitarist or a tight blues band filling the room, the atmosphere is electric. It is one of the most consistent live music offerings in the city.
The Drinks
The beer selection nods to the Danish theme, with several Danish lagers and ales alongside Icelandic craft options. The happy hour, running from 16:00 to 19:00, offers some of the most competitive prices in central Reykjavik. Outside happy hour, prices are standard for downtown -- which is to say expensive, but you are paying for location and atmosphere as much as liquid.
The Food
The kitchen serves straightforward pub food -- burgers, fish and chips, and a few Danish-inspired dishes. Nothing is going to win awards, but everything is filling and satisfying, which is what you want from pub food. The servings are generous.
When to Go
Den Danske Kro works at different times for different reasons. Happy hour for value drinking. After 22:00 for live music. Friday and Saturday nights for the full runtur experience. Whatever your reason, you will find a warm welcome and a cold beer waiting.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Den Danske Kro?
- Den Danske Kro (The Danish Pub) is a popular bar in downtown Reykjavik that pays homage to Iceland's historical ties with Denmark. It serves Danish and Icelandic beers alongside pub food and hosts live music every night.
- Does Den Danske Kro have live music?
- Yes. Live music plays every night from 22:00, featuring a mix of local musicians playing rock, blues, folk, and popular music. It is one of the most reliable live music venues in Reykjavik.
- What is the happy hour at Den Danske Kro?
- Happy hour runs daily from 16:00 to 19:00, with discounted prices on draft beer and selected drinks. It is one of the better happy hour deals in downtown Reykjavik.
- Does Den Danske Kro serve food?
- Yes, the kitchen serves pub food including burgers, fish and chips, and Danish-inspired dishes. The food is solid and hearty rather than refined.
- Where is Den Danske Kro?
- The pub is at Ingolfsstræti 3 in central Reykjavik, a short walk from Laugavegur and Austurstræti. It is right in the heart of the city's nightlife district.
- Is Den Danske Kro suitable for tourists?
- Absolutely. The friendly atmosphere, live music, and central location make it one of the best bars for visitors to experience authentic Reykjavik nightlife. Expect a mixed crowd of locals and tourists.
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