Reykjavik isn’t just about stunning landscapes and lively streets — it’s also a city where you can get hands-on with Icelandic culture. Whether you want to carve your own Viking knife, learn traditional Icelandic recipes, or explore glaciers in style, Reykjavik offers a variety of interactive workshops and classes that deepen your understanding of local crafts and traditions. One of our favorites is the private Golden Circle tour in a premium car. It combines comfort, flexibility, and a personal touch that’s perfect for travelers who want to see Iceland’s highlights on their own terms.
For a truly unique experience, the Viking Knife–Making Workshop lets you craft your own Viking-style blade, while the Icelandic Cooking Class with musical hosts immerses you in local flavors in a friendly home setting. For those craving adventure, the Into the Glacier, Hraunfossar & Barnafoss Waterfalls offers a luxurious private tour of glaciers and waterfalls, and the Natural Icelandic Fragrance Creation Workshop gives you a sensory journey into Iceland’s native botanicals. Below, we detail each experience so you can decide which fits your trip best.
1. Private Golden Circle tour in a premium class car
This private Golden Circle tour offers a flexible, personalized way to see Iceland’s most famous sights. Traveling in a luxurious, air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi, you and your party can set your own pace—no crowded buses or large groups. Visit Kerid Crater, with its vivid red volcanic walls and striking blue-green lake, plus Gullfoss Waterfall and the Geysir Geothermal Area. The itinerary also includes Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
What makes this tour stand out is the customization — your guide can adjust stops or timing, making it ideal for travelers who want an intimate, relaxed experience. Reviewers praise the comfortable Tesla Y and the guide’s fun facts, with comments like “Sergey was an excellent guide, showed us hidden gems,” and “We loved being able to go at our own pace.”
This tour is perfect for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and privacy. It costs $457.41 per person for around 6 to 9 hours, and includes hotel pickup, a private vehicle, and admission to Kerid Crater. It’s an especially good choice if you’re traveling with family or a small group who wants a tailored experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for those who want a hassle-free, personalized Iceland experience with the comfort of a private car—and the flexibility to explore at your own speed.
2. Viking Knife–Making Workshop in Reykjavik
For something truly hands-on, the Viking Knife–Making Workshop offers a chance to craft your own Viking-style knife with an Icelandic artisan. Over approximately 6 hours, you’ll learn age-old techniques, from designing handles to shaping and polishing your blade, using natural materials gathered from the Icelandic landscape.
What makes this experience special is the use of traditional techniques and foraged materials—your knife is not just a souvenir, but a piece of Icelandic craftsmanship. The workshop includes a traditional Icelandic lunch with tea or coffee, making it a relaxed social event. Many reviewers mention how knowledgeable and patient the instructor Palli is, and how proud they feel to take home a handmade Viking knife.
Costing $404.01 per person, this workshop is best suited for anyone interested in craftsmanship, history, or unique souvenirs. It’s a bit of a longer commitment but offers an authentic, memorable experience that’s different from typical sightseeing. Plus, the knives make fantastic gifts.
Bottom Line: Perfect for craft lovers and history buffs, this workshop combines hands-on skill-building with a taste of Icelandic tradition and a memorable keepsake.
3. Icelandic Cooking Class in Downtown Reykjavik with Musical Hosts
If you want to dive into Icelandic cuisine, this cooking class is a cozy, local experience. Hosted by a friendly Icelandic couple in their home kitchen, you’ll learn to prepare two traditional dishes using Iceland’s top-quality ingredients, like wild Atlantic salmon and organic lamb.
What makes this class stand out is the personal touch—you help cook, then sit down to enjoy the meal with local drinks. You can even upgrade to include a market tour, gaining insight into Icelandic food sources. Visitors rave about the relaxed atmosphere and the delicious, authentic dishes. One reviewer shared how Iris “purchased fermented shark for us to try,” making the experience both fun and educational.
Costing $314 for about 4 hours, it’s ideal for food lovers wanting an immersive cultural experience. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available with advance notice, making it accessible for dietary needs.
Bottom Line: An intimate, authentic Icelandic culinary experience where you learn, cook, and dine with locals—perfect for travelers who want to connect through food.
4. Into the Glacier, Hraunfossar & Barnafoss Waterfalls in a new Mercedes V-class
For a luxurious glacier adventure, this private tour in a brand-new Mercedes V-class promises maximum comfort and exclusivity. Traveling from Reykjavik, you’ll visit Hraunfossar, a stunning waterfall that appears to flow from lava fields, and then explore the Langjokull Glacier, including a guided walk through ice cave tunnels.
The tour includes all entrance fees, ensuring a smooth experience, and the vehicle’s spacious interior makes it ideal for relaxing sightseeing. The highlight is the visit to Langjokull Glacier, where you’ll follow your guide through intricate tunnels inside Europe’s second-largest glacier—an unforgettable photo opportunity. The itinerary also includes a stop at Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring.
Rated highly for its personalized attention and comfort, this tour is priced at $2,166.94 per group (up to 5), making it a good value for a family or small group seeking an immersive, hassle-free glacier experience. Reviewers mention the comfortable ride and the expert guide explaining the glacier’s features.
Bottom Line: An upscale, private tour ideal for travelers who want to combine glacier exploration with ultimate comfort and personalized service.
5. Reykjavik: Natural Icelandic Fragrance Creation Workshop
Scent lovers will enjoy the Natural Icelandic Fragrance Creation Workshop, where you learn to craft your own perfume using native Icelandic ingredients. In a relaxed setting, you’ll experiment with wild botanicals, volcanic soils, and herbs to blend a fragrance that captures the essence of Iceland.
What makes this workshop unique is its focus on native ingredients and perfumery techniques. You’ll discover the secrets behind Icelandic scents, from mosses to herbs, and take home a personalized bottle of perfume. It’s a sensory experience that appeals to travelers interested in fragrance, nature, or DIY crafts.
Costing $207 for about 3 hours, the class offers an intimate, creative outlet for a different kind of Icelandic souvenir. It’s perfect for those seeking a relaxing, artistic activity with a fragrant reward.
Bottom Line: An inspiring activity for fragrance enthusiasts and nature lovers, giving you a bespoke perfume that’s uniquely Icelandic.
How to Choose
When deciding between these workshops and classes, consider your goals: want a luxury sightseeing experience? The private Golden Circle offers comfort and flexibility. Interested in authentic craftsmanship? The Viking knife-making provides a hands-on, memorable keepsake. For culinary adventures, the cooking class immerses you in local flavors, while the glacier tour is perfect for those seeking comfort and adventure combined in a private, upscale setting. Lastly, if you love fragrances, the perfume workshop offers a creative, sensory experience.
Think about your budget, time constraints, and interests. For example, if you have a full day and want a luxurious, personalized experience, the glacier tour might be the best fit. If you’re short on time but want a memorable souvenir, making a Viking knife or crafting perfume could be perfect. Book early, especially for popular or private options, to ensure your spot.
Final thoughts
Reykjavik’s workshops and classes open a window into Icelandic culture beyond the usual sightseeing. Whether you prefer private tours, craftsmanship, or culinary experiences, there’s something to deepen your trip and create lasting memories. The private Golden Circle provides a flexible, comfortable way to see iconic sights, while the Viking knife-making offers a tangible craft to take home. For a sensory adventure, the fragrance workshop is a hidden treasure.
Consider what fits your style and interests, and don’t forget to reserve your spot early—these experiences are popular. Whether you want to learn a traditional skill, sample Icelandic cuisine, or explore glaciers in style, Reykjavik’s workshops offer meaningful ways to connect with this fascinating country.