Ice turns the city into a story. In Reykjavik, Magic Ice Bar blends Viking-themed ice carvings with a proper welcome drink, so your hour or so feels like a mini adventure instead of a quick photo break. The ice gallery is built like a walkthrough exhibit, not just a single room.

I especially like the way the venue focuses on craft. You’re surrounded by carved shapes and scenes that tie back to Norwegian Viking sailors and their myths, with the ice doing the storytelling as you move through the space. I also like the human touch: the hosts are big on making the visit fun, including photo help from staff such as Roman, Kris, Juliana, and Asteris.

One possible drawback is that the experience can feel short and the setting smaller than some people expect, so if you’re chasing a huge, multi-room attraction, you may find it slightly pricey at $34 for the entry plus one drink.

Key Points at a Glance

• Only ice bar + gallery in Iceland (so it feels like a true Reykjavik oddity)
• Over 60 tons of carved ice created by international ice artists
• Poncho and gloves included, which matters once you’re inside
• Welcome drink in an ice glass, so it’s part of the theme
• Viking myths on the walls, not just decoration
• Staff help with photos, including easy selfie moments

Finding the Magic Ice Bar Below Álafoss Store

Magic Ice Bar is located below the Álafoss store in Reykjavik. Your move is simple: head toward the shop and go downstairs through it to reach the venue. It’s the kind of location that makes the first step feel like a secret, which helps the magic start immediately.

This also affects timing. Since you’re not waiting for a bus or hiking to a viewpoint, you can slot the ice bar into almost any day. If you’re touring in winter and want something that breaks up cold streets, this is a great indoor reset.

Also, if you’re traveling with limited mobility, you’ll be glad to know the venue is wheelchair accessible, which is rare enough to mention up front. The ice bar is designed for standing and wandering, but at least the entrance itself is built to be usable.

First Minutes: Poncho, Gloves, and the Arctic Switch

The welcome here is very practical. When you enter, staff greet you and hand over a poncho and gloves to keep you comfortable. Even if you’re already dressed for Iceland, those warm layers help the experience feel less like a chore and more like fun.

Right away you’ll notice the temperature shift and the crisp air feel that comes with being in a room made of ice. This isn’t a place to rush. Give yourself a minute to settle in, then start walking while your camera and fingers still work properly.

You can also expect a guided-feeling experience, even if you’re moving around freely. Some hosts are especially focused on playful photo moments and tips for how to frame shots against the ice carvings. Names like Roman, Roma, Kris, Juliana, and Asteris show up as staff who tend to make people smile and keep the mood light.

One small comfort note: some people say the poncho and gloves make a big difference, so don’t plan to wear this like a fashion accessory. Wear the gear the way it’s meant to be worn—warmth first, photos second.

Over 60 Tons of Ice: Vikings, Myths, and Gallery Wandering

The main draw is the ice gallery itself. This is the only ice bar and gallery in Iceland, and the “only” part matters. You’re not comparing it to a dozen similar spots elsewhere in the country. You’re stepping into a unique, themed room where the walls and forms are built from more than 60 tons of ice.

The carvings connect to Icelandic and Viking storytelling, especially Norwegian Viking sailors and the myths of rough Atlantic crossings. Instead of a textbook, it’s a visual map: as you move through, the ice design gives you a sense of the themes being told. Even if you’re not a Viking expert, the effect is clear. You’ll understand you’re in an adventure narrative.

What I like about this setup is how it turns “I’ll take a quick picture” into “wait, I want to see the next sculpture.” People mention finding ice features beyond the main wall displays, including fun ice elements like an ice throne and even an ice-based hockey-style table. Those details are why it feels more like an environment than a backdrop.

If you’re the type who enjoys wandering at your own pace, this suits you. There’s time to look, then time to pause for selfies in front of the carvings. If you’re more schedule-driven, plan to use the included welcome and drink time as your pace anchor so you’re not stuck waiting around.

Your Included Signature Drink in an Ice Glass

Your ticket includes a signature drink, and it’s served in an ice glass. That’s the kind of gimmick that actually works here, because it’s consistent with the theme. You’re tasting something while your entire setting stays tied to the ice.

The best part is that the drink is included, so you’re not stuck calculating costs mid-visit. Extra drinks are available to purchase, but the included one gives you the baseline experience: atmosphere first, then the cold, glass-in-hand moment.

People describe the drink as tasty and enjoyable, with staff helping pour and shake things up as part of the fun. Some hosts also guide you on how to take photos while holding the glass without looking awkward. If you care about your shots, pay attention when they show you where the lighting hits the ice best.

One consideration: if your main goal is cocktails and a long bar session, this is not that kind of place. Think of it as a themed stop where the drink is the finishing touch to the ice-world tour.

Price and Time: Is $34 Worth It?

At $34 per person for entry plus one welcome drink and the poncho and gloves, the value comes from what you’re buying, not just the dollar amount. You’re paying for a fully built ice environment, the carving work, the staff experience, and the included drink that’s part of the setup.

That said, you should know what kind of value you’re expecting. Some people feel it’s worth it because it’s different, cold in the right way, and easy to fit into a day. Others call it slightly expensive or say they expected something bigger. Both reactions make sense.

Here’s the simple way to decide: if you want a one-time Reykjavik oddity that’s highly visual and photo-friendly, this is a strong pick. If you’re chasing a large multi-room attraction and you dislike paying for short experiences, you might feel the cost more than you expect.

So I’d treat it as a “do it once” type of attraction unless you’re a big fan of ice art or themed venues. It can also be a great mid-day or winter break activity when you’re tired of cold streets but still want something Iceland-flavored.

What the Visit Feels Like: Staff, Music, and Photo Stops

The atmosphere is a big part of the experience. Several people highlight the vibe as fun and welcoming, with attentive staff and music that helps keep the mood playful. You’re not silently observing glass cases. You’re in a bar-like environment inside a frozen set.

Photo support is a standout theme. Hosts are described as taking photos for people, helping set up shots, and making the experience feel memorable beyond just the ice itself. Names like Roman, Kris, Juliana, and Asteris show up repeatedly as staff who are interactive and good at keeping things light.

A practical tip: bring your camera and use layers of approach. Start with wide shots of the carvings, then step in for close-ups where ice details are crisp. If the glass is in your hand, use a stance that keeps it visible without blocking your face.

Also, remember the environment is cold. Your fingers and phone camera settings can slow you down. Work efficiently: take your main shots early, then relax into enjoying the drink while the ice details sink in.

Practical Tips: How to Dress and Plan Your Timing

This is Iceland in ice form, so plan like you’re going to be cold. The basic advice is straightforward:

• Wear warm clothing and layers you can move in.
• Bring your camera for the ice carvings and selfie moments.
• Use the provided poncho and gloves so you’re not fighting the cold.

Timing is flexible because the activity is tied to opening times and lasts for a set visit window. It’s labeled as valid for one day, with starting times you can check based on availability.

If you want the smoothest experience, try to go when you’re not rushing to another reservation right after. You’ll likely want a little buffer for photos and for settling in once you’re downstairs and bundled up.

One more note: the venue is wheelchair accessible, but you’ll still be navigating within the ice environment. Wear supportive shoes with grip, and if you’re unsure, ask staff about the best paths inside.

Who Should Book Magic Ice Bar?

I’d recommend Magic Ice Bar if you want one of Reykjavik’s most literal “wow” experiences, where the entire setting is part of the attraction. It’s ideal for:

• Couples looking for something different than a standard museum visit
• Solo travelers who want a warm greeting and easy photo moments
• Families or group trips that can handle a short, chilly indoor activity
• Anyone who loves ice art, craftsmanship, or theme-based spaces

It may be less ideal if you want a long, multi-stop evening or if you dislike paying for an experience that centers on atmosphere rather than a full food-and-drink program.

And if you’re visiting in winter, it’s especially convenient. People often say it can be warmer inside than outside, which makes it a smart break when the weather is pushing you toward indoor comfort.

Should You Book This Ice Bar Stop?

Book it if you like the idea of walking into a room built from ice, surrounded by carved Viking-themed scenes, with an included drink served in an ice glass. For the price, the value is strongest when you treat it as a short, memorable Reykjavik moment.

Don’t book it if you’re expecting a huge venue with lots of time built in. This is more concentrated than that, and some visitors feel slightly underwhelmed if they expected more rooms or a longer stay.

My honest take: if you want a “different from normal” experience that you can do without complicated planning, Magic Ice Bar is one of the easiest yeses in Reykjavik.

FAQ

How long does the Magic Ice Bar visit last?

The experience is listed as lasting 1 day, with entry tied to starting times. Plan for a short, focused visit rather than a full half-day activity.

What’s included with admission?

Your ticket includes Magic Ice Bar entry, 1 welcome drink, and poncho and gloves.

Do I need to pay extra for drinks?

Additional drinks are available to purchase, but your welcome drink is included in the ticket price.

Where exactly is the meeting point?

The ice bar is located below the Álafoss store. Go downstairs through the store to reach it.

What should I bring?

Bring warm clothing and a camera for photos among the ice carvings.

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible.