Private Food Walking Tour in Reykjavik

If you’re heading to Reykjavik and love tasting new foods while soaking up local culture, this private food walking tour might just be your perfect match. While we haven’t had the chance to do it ourselves, reviews suggest it’s a standout experience — especially if you’re curious about Icelandic cuisine beyond just the famous puffs and hot dogs. From the minute details in the itinerary to the glowing feedback from past guests, this tour seems well thought-out and genuinely engaging.

What we really like is how it combines food with culture, giving a real taste of what makes Reykjavik unique. Plus, the fact that it’s private means you’re not stuck in a big group, which often leads to more personalized stories and better interaction with your guide. On the flip side, it’s priced at about $208 per person, which might seem steep, but many reviewers agree that the quality and scope of the experience justify the cost. If you’re adventurous with your eating and love learning about local traditions, this tour appears to cater well to those interests.

However, since it takes around three hours, it’s worth considering your walking stamina and how much food you’re willing to taste in one go. Not everyone’s palate will love every item — fermented shark, for example, is definitely an acquired taste — but that’s part of the adventure. This tour is best suited for foodies, curious travelers, and anyone eager to see Reykjavik from a culinary perspective, all while getting some insider tips for the rest of your stay.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: As a private tour, it offers customized attention and flexibility.
• Diverse Tasting Stops: From street food to local markets, you’ll sample Icelandic delicacies that go beyond the usual tourist fare.
• Rich Cultural Insights: Your guide shares stories about Reykjavik’s history and culture, making the food meaningful.
• Flexible and Convenient: Pickup options and mobile tickets make planning easier.
• Longer Bookings: Many book this tour an average of 71 days in advance, highlighting its popularity.
• Cost vs. Value: At about $208, many reviewers find this a worthwhile splurge for a memorable experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point at Ingólfur Square

The tour kicks off right in the heart of Reykjavik, at Ingólfur Square, marked by the two stone pillars. This is a thoughtfully chosen meeting place that signifies the city’s roots — the original settlement by Iceland’s first settler. It’s a great spot to start absorbing the vibe of Reykjavik’s historic center. The fact that it’s free to meet here is a bonus, and it sets the tone for a culture-rich experience.

Reykjavik Harbor and Shellfish Soup

Next, the group heads towards Reykjavik’s harbor, where your first taste is a warm Icelandic shellfish soup. This is often described as a hearty, flavorful appetizer that warms you up for the rest of the tour. Many reviews highlight how much they enjoyed sampling this local specialty, and it’s a good way to understand Iceland’s seafood traditions. The harbor setting adds a scenic touch, making this stop both tasty and visually appealing.

Iconic Hot Dogs at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur

No Reykjavik food tour is complete without a visit to the legendary hot dog stand, Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur. The lamb hot dog here is often praised as the best you’ll find in town, and it’s a must-try for those wanting a quick, satisfying snack. The stand itself is a Reykjavik institution, and many guides recommend sticking to the original rather than copycats. Several reviews mention how delicious these hot dogs are, and some even say it’s worth the trip just for this.

Exploring Icelandic Snacks in a Supermarket

A quick stop at a local supermarket offers a glimpse into everyday Icelandic life. You’ll see an array of local snacks and candies, and get a chance to pick up some unique treats. Travelers often appreciate this stop for the authenticity it provides — no tourist traps, just the goods locals enjoy. It’s a fun way to see how Icelanders snack and possibly pick up souvenirs.

Flea Market Food Delights at Kolaportið

If you’re on the tour during the weekend, it includes a visit to Kolaportið, the Reykjavik flea market with a small food section. Here, the focus is on traditional Icelandic foods, like dried fish or fermented products. It’s a lively, bustling spot that gives you a real feel for local life. Be aware, though, that this part is only available Saturdays and Sundays, so plan accordingly. Many guests find this market the highlight, especially because of the chance to try authentic Icelandic delicacies.

End at Dass Restaurant with Fermented Shark

The final stop at Dass Reykjavik, near Hallgrimskirkja church, offers a tasting of several Icelandic delicacies, including the infamous fermented shark (hakarl). This is what many travelers look forward to — or fear — as it’s known for its strong smell and acquired taste. The guide offers helpful tips on how to eat it, often incorporating Icelandic drinks like a local beer or the notorious Black Death snaps to celebrate the journey.

Guests have reported that tasting hakarl is a memorable highlight, with some saying it’s worth trying just for the experience. The setting at Dass is cozy but modern, and the opportunity to enjoy a drink together caps off a well-rounded cultural and culinary exploration.

Walking Through the Experience

The tour’s structure means you get to see multiple parts of Reykjavik’s core, each with its own flavor. The entire walk is designed to be manageable — roughly three hours — but packed with enough food, stories, and sights to make it feel longer and more fulfilling. The guide’s knowledge adds a lot of value; reviews repeatedly praise how friendly, humorous, and informative they are.

By the end, many guests comment on how the tour provided a comprehensive look at Reykjavik’s food scene — from street eats to market finds and fine dining. Not only do you sample a variety of Icelandic foods, but you also leave with suggestions for what to try during your stay, making this a practical experience as well.

On Price and Value

At approximately $208 per person, this tour is an investment. However, considering the multiple tastings, the personalized experience, and the insider knowledge, many reviewers find it to be worth the cost. One guest mentioned that the guide’s recommendations extended beyond the tour, helping them enjoy Reykjavik even more.

That said, some reviews voice concern about the price, comparing the total food costs to their own tab and suggesting it might seem high. But they also acknowledge that the experience’s cultural and educational value is something you can’t easily get on your own in such a short time.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food lovers, adventurous eaters, and travelers who enjoy learning about local culture through cuisine. It’s perfect if you want an insider’s glimpse of Reykjavik’s food scene without the hassle of planning each stop yourself. It’s also well-suited for those eager to discover Icelandic delicacies like fermented shark, smoked puffin, or lamb hot dogs.

Since it’s a private tour, it allows for some flexibility, making it suitable for couples, friends, or small groups who want a more tailored experience. While families with older children might enjoy the tasting, very young children might find it a bit long or intense, given the variety of foods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
This tour primarily features Icelandic meats, seafood, and traditional delicacies, so it might not be ideal for vegetarians or vegans.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about three hours, which is enough time to explore several food stops without feeling rushed.

Are there options for drinks?
Yes, the final stop includes the opportunity to enjoy either a non-alcoholic or alcoholic Icelandic drink of your choosing, including local beers or snaps.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers all tastings and the guided experience. Transportation isn’t mentioned, but pickup is offered, and tickets are mobile.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, making it flexible if your plans shift.

Is this experience good for those with dietary restrictions?
The tour focuses on traditional Icelandic foods, so it’s best to mention any dietary restrictions when booking to see if accommodations can be made.

Do reviews mention the guides?
Absolutely. Guides are repeatedly praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and humor, making the tour more engaging and educational.

Wrapping It Up

For anyone curious about Icelandic food, this private walking tour in Reykjavik offers a thoughtful, well-curated way to taste and learn. It combines flavorful bites with stories about Iceland’s culture and history, all delivered by a friendly guide. The tour’s flexibility, intimate setting, and comprehensive scope make it a fantastic choice for foodies and culturally-minded travelers.

While the price may seem high for some, many guests find it justifies the experience — especially if they’re eager to try local specialties like fermented shark or puffin. If you’re seeking a personalized, immersive look at Reykjavik’s culinary scene, this tour is a solid pick, providing memories and insights you’ll carry long after your trip.

If you love food adventures, enjoy learning about local traditions, and don’t mind trying some unusual Icelandic delicacies, this tour is likely to deliver exactly what you’re after. Just be prepared for the walking and the potential for some bold flavors!