The Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Christmas in Reykjavik, the Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour promises to be a tasty way to get into the holiday spirit. While we haven’t personally tried it, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-rounded, engaging experience that combines culinary delights with local stories and traditions.

What truly stands out are the passionate local guides who share fascinating tidbits about Icelandic Christmas customs, and the chance to sample authentic festive dishes like smoked lamb, laufabrauð, and reindeer pâté. Plus, who wouldn’t enjoy wandering through Reykjavik’s charming streets adorned with holiday lights?

One thing to consider is that this is a walking tour lasting around three hours, which means you’ll need to be comfortable on your feet and dressed appropriately for Iceland’s weather. It’s probably best suited for those who enjoy food, culture, and a bit of festive storytelling. This tour might be especially appealing if you appreciate a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and learn about Iceland’s holiday traditions.

Whether you’re visiting Reykjavik during the holiday season or simply want to add a unique culinary experience to your trip, this tour appears to balance delicious food, interesting stories, and a cozy holiday ambiance. It’s a great pick for travelers who enjoy seeing local customs through the lens of their taste buds.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with expert guides, food, and drinks included, so you won’t leave hungry.
• Authentic Icelandic dishes such as smoked lamb, laufabrauð, gravlax, and reindeer pâté, offering a real taste of local traditions.
• Festive drinks like Jólaöl, malt & appelsín, and Jólaglögg mulled wine, perfect for getting into the Christmas mood.
• Visit to the Little Christmas Store for seasonal decorations, artisanal crafts, and a charming shopping experience.
• Lively storytelling about Iceland’s Christmas customs, traditions, and history to deepen your appreciation.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the ability to reserve now and pay later.

Imagine strolling through Reykjavik’s beautifully lit streets, the glow of Christmas lights shimmering against the winter sky. That’s the scene you’ll encounter on this three-hour walking tour, which offers more than just a taste of food—it’s an exploration of Icelandic holiday culture. With a price tag of around $135 per person, the value is quite solid when you consider the inclusive nature of the experience, featuring food, drinks, a knowledgeable guide, and a visit to a local Christmas store.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Tour Looks Like

The tour begins in front of the Center Hotels Plaza on Aðalstræti, a central spot that makes meeting up straightforward. Your guide, who is passionate about sharing Iceland’s Christmas customs, will lead you through the streets, stopping at about four different eateries and a charming local shop. The group size tends to be intimate enough to foster engaging conversations, as some reviews highlight.

The Food and Drink Highlights

The menu is thoughtfully curated to introduce you to traditional Icelandic Christmas flavors. You’ll sample the robust smoked lamb, a beloved dish that promises hearty, satisfying bites. The crispy, intricately patterned laufabrauð—a kind of leaf-shaped fried bread—is both a visual delight and an edible one. Other highlights include glazed Hamborgarhrygg, reindeer pâté, and flavorful gravlax, each offering a glimpse into Iceland’s diverse holiday table.

The drinks are equally festive, with options like Jólaöl (a Christmas ale), malt & appelsín (a non-alcoholic drink), and the classic Jólaglögg (mulled wine). If you prefer, you can request hot cocoa instead, which is a nice touch for those wanting a non-alcoholic warm-up.

What Makes This Tour Special

One of the biggest draws is the storytelling aspect. Guides share interesting, sometimes terrifying Christmas stories, adding a layer of cultural depth that makes the experience memorable. As one reviewer pointed out, Esther E. provided “great historic knowledge” that made the three hours fly by, and Sofia raved about how the guide “told us a lot about Iceland and its traditions.”

Visiting the Little Christmas Store

The visit to the Little Christmas Store offers a cozy shopping experience filled with seasonal ornaments, artisanal crafts, and other seasonal treasures. It’s a perfect spot for picking up a locally inspired gift and helps support small Icelandic businesses. Many visitors appreciated the short walk and the chance to browse festive items in a relaxed setting.

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The Value in the Experience

At $135, the tour is priced slightly higher than some walking food tours, but considering the all-inclusive setup—food, drinks, guide, and a small gift—it offers good value. Plus, the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve without immediate payment give you peace of mind when planning your trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a foodie wanting to taste Iceland’s holiday specialties while learning about their traditions, this tour is a natural fit. It’s also a great choice for travelers who enjoy walking and exploring local neighborhoods with a knowledgeable guide. The tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, but it could be suitable for older children or teens interested in culture and food.

• Meeting Point: In front of Center Hotels Plaza, Aðalstræti 4-6, Reykjavik.
• Duration: Around 3 hours.
• Price: $135 per person, all-inclusive.
• Availability: Check availability for different starting times.
• Weather: Dress warmly—layering is key in Iceland, especially in winter.
• Dietary Needs: The tour offers accommodations for specific dietary restrictions if notified ahead of time.
• Language: Guided in English.
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.

The Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour offers a cozy, flavorful way to experience Iceland’s festive traditions. You’ll get to sample classic holiday dishes and drinks, learn about the stories that make Christmas in Iceland unique, and enjoy a walk through the city’s beautifully decorated streets. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making it a warm, inviting experience regardless of the weather outside.

While the tour does involve some walking and the price might seem a bit steep at first glance, the all-inclusive nature and intimate setting make it a worthwhile indulgence for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of Iceland’s holiday spirit. The visit to the Christmas store adds a nice touch, giving you a chance to take home a piece of Icelandic cheer.

If you’re a traveler who relishes authentic food, cultural stories, and festive cheer, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your Reykjavik trip. It’s especially ideal for those who want a relaxed, informative, and delicious holiday experience without the hassle of planning multiple restaurants or tastings.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, older children and teenagers interested in Icelandic traditions and food might enjoy it. The walking aspect and the focus on tasting might appeal to those with an adventurous palate.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in weather-appropriate clothing. Iceland in winter can be quite cold, so layering is recommended to stay comfortable while walking outdoors.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, the tour is happy to accommodate specific dietary needs. Just let the organizers know when booking so they can prepare suitable options.

How long does the tour take?
It lasts about three hours, including visits to several eateries and the Christmas store. The tour ends back at the starting point.

What kind of drinks are included?
You can enjoy festive drinks like Jólaöl (Christmas ale), malt & appelsín, and Jólaglögg (mulled wine). If you prefer, hot cocoa is also available as a substitute.

Is the tour walkable for most people?
Yes, the tour involves walking through Reykjavik’s streets, but the stops are close together, making it manageable for most guests.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility makes booking less stressful.

What makes this tour stand out from other food experiences?
Beyond just food tasting, the storytelling and cultural insights offered by guides add depth to the experience. It’s not merely a meal but an engaging cultural journey.

To sum it up, if you’re seeking a cozy, cultural, and delicious way to celebrate the Christmas season in Reykjavik, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s perfect for those who love authentic food, storytelling, and a chance to soak in the city’s holiday spirit without the fuss of planning every detail. Just remember to bundle up, come hungry, and enjoy the warmth of Icelandic hospitality.

You can check availability for your dates here: