Private Reykjavik Cat Walking Tour

Exploring Reykjavik with a feline twist: Our deep dive into the Private Reykjavik Cat Walking Tour

If you’re looking for something a little different in Reykjavik, this private cat walking tour might just be the quirky experience to add to your trip. While Reykjavik is famous for its stunning landscapes, vibrant art scene, and rich history, this tour offers a playful alternative—focusing entirely on the city’s feline friends and their place in Icelandic lore. It’s perfect for animal lovers, and especially for those who enjoy a more personalized, intimate outing.

What we really like about this experience is its personalized nature—since it’s a private tour, you get to enjoy a cozy, tailored adventure, without having to share it with strangers. Plus, the stop at the cat cafe for hot drinks and cuddles sounds like a delightful break from sightseeing. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour has a niche appeal; if you’re not a cat person or allergic, it might not resonate as strongly. Still, it’s a charming way to see parts of Reykjavik you might otherwise overlook.

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate whimsy, enjoy learning about local folklore, and want a relaxed, fun way to explore the city’s sights. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group of friends, it offers a memorable, light-hearted experience that’s quite different from standard city tours.

Key Points

• Unique Focus: This is a feline-themed tour—perfect for cat lovers and those curious about Icelandic folklore involving cats.
• Private Experience: Only your group participates, making it highly personalized and flexible.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about the historical and cultural significance of cats in Iceland through folklore and local stories.
• Relaxed Pace: The tour balances sightseeing with cozy stops, like petting cats at a cafe and enjoying hot drinks.
• Ideal for Animal Enthusiasts: Especially those who enjoy petting cats and exploring Reykjavik’s hidden city gems.
• Booking & Cost: It costs around $162.46 per person, booked on average 45 days in advance, offering good value for a private experience.

A closer look at the Reykjavik Cat Walking Tour

An unconventional way to explore Reykjavik

This tour is a bit of a departure from the usual city sightseeing. It offers a window into Reykjavik’s personality—quirky, warm, and full of stories. The main draw is the chance to learn about cats’ role in Icelandic folklore, which dates back to settlement times. You’ll hear tales about where Icelandic cats come from and their significance through history, making it not just cute but also culturally interesting.

The itinerary explained

Stop 1: Ingólfstorg
Our journey begins at the monument marking the start of Iceland’s settlement. From here, we get a quick intro to the history and a fun discussion: where did Iceland’s cats originate? This spot sets a fitting tone—connecting the city’s roots with its furry inhabitants.

Stop 2: Penninn Eymundsson
A brief walk takes us to a bookstore where Icelandic cat stories, like the Christmas Cat, are featured. It’s a tiny but charming peek into how deeply cats are woven into local tales.

Stop 3: Parliament House (Althingishus)
Next, we pass by Reykjavik’s political heart, with some fun stories about cats’ tails and their symbolic meanings. It’s a light, amusing stop, perfect for those interested in local culture.

Stop 4: Lake Tjornin
A peaceful pond that’s home to various bird species. We stop here to imagine what it would be like if a cat were exploring this serene scene—adding a bit of whimsical thought to your day.

Stop 5: Lögberg and the Oldest College
While passing the historic college—some say it dates back to 1056—your guide shares more folklore, blending history with feline tales naturally.

Stop 6: Kattakaffihúsið (The Cat Café)
This is the highlight for many—spending around 40 minutes petting cats while sipping coffee or hot cocoa, and enjoying an Icelandic pastry. It’s a cozy, relaxed break that combines sightseeing with some adorable feline moments. From reviews, folks particularly loved this part, describing it as “delicious hot chocolate” and a chance to meet “Bashtet, the King of Cats.”

Stop 7: The Heart of Reykjavik & Laugavegur
A walk along the lively shopping street gives you a glance at Reykjavik’s modern vibe, with some cute cat-inspired designs sprinkled in.

Stops at Hallgrimskirkja & the Einar Jonsson Sculpture Garden
On the way to the final stop, you pass iconic landmarks like Hallgrimskirkja and enjoy the art at the sculpture garden. These quick stops are more about soaking up the city’s ambiance than extensive sightseeing.

What we loved

We enjoyed the personalized feel of the tour—it’s just your group exploring Reykjavik’s feline side. The highlight for many is definitely the cat café, where you get to pet and relax with cats in a cozy environment. The stories about cats in folklore add a layer of cultural richness that makes the experience more meaningful than just playing with cats.

Practical aspects

• Duration & Distance: Around 2 hours, covering several key city spots but at a relaxed pace.
• Transport & Accessibility: The tour starts near public transit and is easy to access.
• Cost & Booking: At $162.46, it’s a bit on the pricier side, but considering it’s private and includes a stop at the café, the price makes sense for many travelers. Booking about 45 days in advance is common, so plan early if you’re interested.

Real-world review insights

One traveler found it somewhat underwhelming, saying, “the highlight was meeting a bookstore cat and the hot chocolate,” suggesting that part really shines, but other parts might feel slow or less engaging. Still, most reviews (19 in total, with a stellar 4.9/5 rating) praise the tour’s charm and the unique experience it provides.

Final thoughts: Is this the tour for you?

This Reykjavik cat tour is a good pick if you’re an animal lover, enjoy quirky cultural stories, and want a relaxed, intimate way to see the city. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with someone who loves cats or wants an unconventional story-based sightseeing experience. The inclusion of time at the cozy café makes it feel less like a hurried tour and more like a leisurely visit.

However, if your trip involves tight schedules or you’re after grand sights and outdoor adventures, this might feel a bit slow or niche. Also, keep in mind that if you’re allergic to cats, this is probably best avoided.

For those who enjoy blending cultural tales with a bit of cuteness and comfort, this tour offers a memorable glimpse into Reykjavik’s lighter, feline-friendly side.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally a relaxed, family-friendly experience, especially if your kids love cats. Just be aware that it involves some walking and a cozy cafe stop.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect short activity to break up your day.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 45 days ahead. The tour is private, so early booking helps secure your spot.

What’s included in the price?
You get a private guide, a hot drink (coffee or hot cocoa), and an Icelandic pastry at the cat cafe. The sightseeing stops are free.

Is this a walking tour or does it involve transportation?
It’s primarily a walking tour, covering several city spots on foot.

Can I see cats during the tour other than at the cafe?
Yes, there’s a good chance to spot some of Reykjavik’s furry celebrities, especially around the city.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.

Is it suitable if I have a cat allergy?
No, it’s not recommended for anyone with a cat allergy.

What is the price point like?
At around $162.46 per person, it’s a bit on the higher side but reflects its private nature and inclusions.

How do reviews describe the experience?
Most are very positive, highlighting the fun stories and the cozy cafe stop, though a few found parts less engaging.

If you’re open to a playful, culturally enriching, and cozy glimpse into Reykjavik through the eyes of its feline residents, this tour might just be a charming highlight of your trip. It offers a unique, relaxed way to explore the city’s streets, stories, and cats—all wrapped into one memorable adventure.