How much alcohol can I bring to Iceland?

Gifts can be taken to or from Iceland up to a value of 10,000 Icelandic Krona (ISK), which is equivalent to about $81 U.S. Dollars (USD). The minimum age for bringing alcohol into Iceland is 20. However, it is a little complicated in terms of how much alcohol you are allowed to bring in.

Why was alcohol banned in Iceland?

Rejecting alcohol was seen as a repudiation of Iceland’s hard-drinking colonial overlords, the Danes. Icelandic prohibition applied to all alcoholic beverages for four years beginning in 1915. It was partially lifted in 1919 due to a trade dispute with Spain.

What alcoholic beverages were banned during the prohibition?

The ban had originally prohibited all alcohol, but from 1922 legalized wine and in 1935 legalized all alcoholic beverages except beer with more than 2.25% alcohol content. As in many other states with prohibition, "illegal brewing and smuggling of alcoholic beverages were widespread during the ban."

How do I get into the spirit of Icelandic liquor?

If you are interested in the fascinating world of Icelandic liquor, read on and let us guide you through the Icelandic spirit world. A great way to get into the spirit of Icelandic spirits is on a guided 2.5-hour Reykjavik beer & schnapps walking tour or several other delicious food and drink tours.