Is There a Starbucks in Iceland? Coffee Options for Travelers 2025
September 30, 2025 at 8:42:03 PM
If you’re traveling to Iceland and craving your usual Starbucks latte, you might be surprised by the answer: No, Iceland does not currently have any Starbucks locations. As of 2025, Starbucks has not expanded into the country.
This often surprises travelers because Starbucks operates in many other European countries, but Iceland has a strong local coffee culture that makes big international chains less common.
Why Isn’t Starbucks in Iceland?
There are a few reasons Starbucks hasn’t set up shop here:
Strong Local Coffee Scene – Icelanders take pride in high-quality coffee, and local cafés are everywhere, especially in Reykjavík.
Population Size – With only around 380,000 people, Iceland is a small market for a global chain.
Local Preferences – Independent cafés focus on freshly roasted beans, cozy interiors, and a slower coffee experience, which fits Icelandic culture better than a quick takeaway chain.
Alternatives to Starbucks in Reykjavík
Even though you won’t find a Starbucks, Iceland is far from short on amazing coffee. Some top free-to-enter cafés (you only pay for what you order) include:
Reykjavík Roasters – Known as one of the best coffee roasters in Iceland, with a focus on quality beans and artisanal brews.
Kaffibrennslan – A cozy downtown café perfect for relaxing after exploring the city.
Te & Kaffi – Often called the “Icelandic Starbucks,” this local chain has multiple locations and a menu similar to Starbucks with flavored lattes and iced coffees.
Mokka Kaffi – One of the oldest cafés in Reykjavík, famous for waffles and espresso drinks.
Where to Find Coffee in Iceland Beyond Reykjavík
Akureyri: Northern Iceland’s capital has several boutique coffee shops worth visiting.
Gas Stations: On road trips, gas stations like N1 and Olís serve surprisingly decent coffee, often stronger than what you’d expect in other countries.
Local Bakeries: Almost every town has a bakery that serves coffee alongside pastries, perfect for budget travelers.
Will Starbucks Ever Open in Iceland?
It’s possible, but unlikely in the near future. Starbucks tends to expand into larger markets or tourist hubs first. Given that Iceland already has a strong café culture and plenty of chains like Te & Kaffi, Starbucks may not see the need.
That said, with the steady growth of tourism (especially U.S. visitors), Starbucks could eventually test an airport location in Keflavík International Airport (KEF). If it happens, that would likely be the first spot.
Quick FAQs
Q: Is there Starbucks in Reykjavík?
A: No, there are no Starbucks stores anywhere in Iceland, including Reykjavík.
Q: What’s the Icelandic equivalent of Starbucks?
A: The local chain Te & Kaffi offers a similar menu with flavored lattes, cappuccinos, and cold brews.
Q: Can I use my Starbucks Rewards in Iceland?
A: Not yet—since there are no Starbucks locations, the app and rewards program don’t apply here.
Final Thoughts
So, does Iceland have Starbucks? No—but that’s not a bad thing. Iceland’s coffee culture is deeply rooted in quality, community, and cozy café experiences. While you won’t find your pumpkin spice latte or a venti cold brew here, you will discover unique coffee houses that might just become your new favorites.
If you’re traveling through Europe, check nearby countries instead: Starbucks has locations in Denmark, Sweden, and the UK—all just a short flight away.
Until Starbucks arrives in Iceland, enjoy exploring the country’s local coffee scene—it’s part of the travel experience.
