Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour

If you’re considering experiencing Reykjavik during the holiday season, a walking tour through the city’s festive streets might just be what you need. This Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour promises a cozy, story-filled exploration of Iceland’s unique Christmas traditions, decorated streets, and charming markets. It’s a way to get into the spirit without the stress of large crowds or hurried sightseeing.

What immediately appeals is the combination of cultural storytelling and scenic views, all wrapped up in a manageable two-hour stroll. Plus, the tour’s focus on Icelandic folklore — think elves, trolls, and Christmas cats — adds a layer of local charm that feels authentic. Another plus? The value for money at $64 per person seems fair for what you get: a guided experience with some discounts at local stores.

That said, a small consideration is that this is a walking-only experience. If you’re not keen on walking or if the weather turns nasty, it could be less enjoyable. Also, as it’s only available in December, this is a seasonal experience that’s not suited for any other time of year. This tour works best for those who love stories, festive atmospheres, and immersive holiday traditions.

Who might love this? If you’re traveling in December and want to get a taste of Icelandic Christmas culture in a relaxed setting, this tour is worth considering. Families, couples, or solo travelers wanting to soak in local Christmas cheer will find it a charming addition to their Reykjavik itinerary.

Key Points

• Seasonal Focus: Only runs in December, capturing Reykjavik’s festive spirit.
• Cultural Insights: Learn Icelandic Christmas traditions, including folklore and local stories.
• Scenic Stops: Enjoy sights like the Christmas markets, Oslo Christmas Tree, and Hallgrímskirkja.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for children and families interested in holiday stories.
• Value & Extras: Includes discounts at stores and stalls, adding to the overall experience.
• Duration & Flexibility: A compact 2-hour tour with flexible start times and private options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Festive Walk through Reykjavik

We’re not talking about a typical sightseeing tour that rushes past the key landmarks. Instead, this experience is all about getting into the Christmas spirit in a relaxed, story-rich way. At just $64 per person, the tour offers a decent balance of value—especially considering the storytelling, local insights, and discounts included.

What to Expect and How It Feels

When we picture Reykjavik decorated for Christmas, we think of cozy streets illuminated by twinkling lights, the aroma of baked goods, and local markets buzzing with holiday cheer. That’s exactly what you’ll encounter on this tour. Starting at the Center Hotels Plaza, the walk kicks off with a look at the ice skating rink, holiday decorations, and stalls at Ingólfur Square. Here, you’ll see the Christmas market stalls and get a sense of the festive vibe. The guide shares stories about local traditions, which makes the visual elements more meaningful.

From there, the tour takes you to Austurvöllur Square and the Oslo Christmas Tree. Standing beneath the towering tree, you’ll learn about Iceland’s way of celebrating Christmas and why the Oslo tree holds significance for Reykjavik. It’s a spot that’s both picturesque and steeped in local customs, making for a good photo opportunity too.

Exploring Icelandic Christmas Folklore and Traditions

One of the most enjoyable parts of this tour is the stories. Iceland’s Christmas traditions are quite different from those in other countries. Instead of a single Santa, Iceland hosts 13 Yule Lads, mischievous Santa Clauses who visit during December. Plus, there’s Grýla, the troll mother who eats naughty children, and the Christmas Cat, a ferocious feline that roams around during the season. These tales add a playful, sometimes spooky touch to the festivities.

The guide does a good job of bringing these stories to life, making the folklore feel vivid and real. It makes the experience more than just a sightseeing walk—it’s an immersion into Icelandic holiday culture. We loved the way the stories turn familiar Christmas symbols into Icelandic legends, giving you a different perspective on Christmas traditions.

Shopping & Scenic Stops

The tour takes a leisurely stroll down Laugavegur, Reykjavik’s main shopping street. Here, you’ll visit a small Christmas store—the “Litla Jólabúðin”—which is perfect for picking up unique souvenirs or Christmas decorations. The store’s cozy ambiance makes it a highlight, and you might find some special Icelandic gifts to bring home.

A short visit to a bookstore adds a literary touch, emphasizing Icelanders’ love for books, especially during the holidays. It’s a reminder that Christmas in Iceland isn’t just about decorations, but also about traditions like reading and storytelling.

The walk proceeds towards Hallgrímskirkja, one of Reykjavik’s most iconic landmarks. The majestic church provides a stunning backdrop for photos and a peaceful moment to reflect on the holiday season.

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Food and Drink

While the tour itself doesn’t include a full meal, the guide mentions Icelandic Christmas foods and drinks that you might sample along the way. From traditional treats to festive beverages, these small tastings add flavor to the experience. Plus, the tour offers discounts at some restaurants and stalls, encouraging you to explore more on your own after the walk.

Practical Details and Group Dynamics

The tour is conducted in English, and the group size can be private if you prefer. Meeting at the Center Hotels Plaza ensures a central and easy-to-find starting point, with a prompt start 5 minutes early. It’s a walk, not a strenuous hike, but dressing in layers and weather-appropriate clothing is a must, considering Iceland’s winter chill.

The two-hour duration is perfect for those who want a festive experience without spending an entire day. The availability varies, so it’s best to check ahead. Cancellation policies are flexible—full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance—and you can also reserve now and pay later, which is convenient.

How Valuable Is It?

At $64, the tour offers good value for those interested in a cultural and festive experience. When you consider the storytelling, sightseeing, photo stops, and discounts, it’s a well-rounded offering. It’s not a long or exhaustive tour, but it’s designed to give a festive overview without overwhelming you. If you’re on a tight schedule or looking for a relaxed way to enjoy Reykjavik’s Christmas atmosphere, this hits the mark.

From the reviews, we note that travelers found it enjoyable and appreciated the stunning views and good value for money. People seem to love the warm storytelling and the chance to soak in local traditions without feeling rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This walk suits anyone wanting an authentic glimpse of Icelandic Christmas traditions in a cozy, engaging setting. It’s particularly appealing to those who enjoy stories, folklore, and scenic city views. Families with children might find it fun and educational, thanks to the folklore aspect, but adults interested in cultural insights will also appreciate it.

It’s ideal for travelers in December who want a light, manageable activity that enriches their understanding of local customs while enjoying Reykjavik’s holiday decorations.

FAQs About the Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour

• Is the tour suitable for children?
  Yes, it’s family-friendly and involves storytelling, which children often enjoy, especially if they like fairy tales and folklore.

• How long is the tour?
  The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect short activity during your day.

• What should I wear?
  Dress in weather-appropriate layers. Expect cold temperatures, so warm clothing, hats, and gloves are advisable.

• Does the tour include transportation?
  No, it’s a walking tour starting and ending at the same location, so be prepared for some walking.

• Are there any discounts included?
  Yes, you’ll get discounts at certain Christmas stores, stalls, and restaurants, which adds extra value.

• Can I cancel or reschedule?
  Full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance. You can also reserve now and pay later.

• Is this tour available on specific days?
  Yes, it runs only in December, aligning with the Christmas season.

• Is the tour private?
  Yes, private group options are available for a more personalized experience.

• What if it rains or snows?
  The tour proceeds in winter weather, so come prepared for rain, snow, or wind. Weather may affect comfort, but the experience is still festive.

• Are there food tastings included?
  While not a full meal, there might be opportunities to sample Icelandic Christmas treats along the way, thanks to the included discounts.

Final Thoughts

This Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour is a cozy, story-rich way to celebrate the season while exploring the city’s holiday sights. It offers an authentic taste of Icelandic Christmas traditions, brought to life through folklore and festive scenery. The combination of cultural insights, scenic stops, and small surprises makes it a worthwhile addition to your Reykjavik trip, especially if you’re visiting in December.

It’s best suited for those who appreciate storytelling, culture, and a relaxed pace. The price point is reasonable, considering the value of the stories, sightseeing, and discounts. If you’re seeking a warm, memorable, and uniquely Icelandic holiday experience, this tour could be just right.

In the end, it’s a delightful way to embrace the magic of Reykjavik’s Christmas season—without the rush or crowds. Just dress warmly, bring your curiosity, and enjoy the festive tales and sights that make Iceland’s holiday traditions so special.

You can check availability for your dates here: