World War Two Walking Tour in Reykjavik

Exploring Reykjavik’s WWII Past: A Practical Review of the Walking Tour

If you’re into history or simply want a different perspective on Reykjavik, this World War Two Walking Tour is worth considering. Promoted as a two-hour journey through the city’s involvement during the war, the experience offers a mix of storytelling, historical visuals, and cultural insights. While it might not be a comprehensive deep dive into all aspects of WWII, it’s a well-structured snapshot that adds a unique layer to your Iceland trip.

Two things really stand out about this tour. First, the use of period photos and videos helps bring the history to life, making you feel like you’re stepping back in time. Second, the guide’s in-character storytelling style makes the experience engaging without feeling overly academic. A potential drawback? Since it’s about a specific slice of history and quite compact, if you’re after an in-depth WWII experience, this might feel a bit light. But if you want a memorable, approachable look into how the war affected Reykjavik culturally and socially, this tour hits the mark.

This tour suits travelers with an interest in history, culture, or those who enjoy walking city explorations. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with someone who appreciates storytelling and visual aids, or if you’re a first-time visitor wanting a quick cultural overview. Families with older kids interested in history might also find it a worthwhile addition to their itinerary.

Key Points

• Concise and engaging two-hour walk through Reykjavik’s WWII history.
• Visual storytelling with period photos and videos makes history tangible.
• Lighthearted tone balances serious topics with cultural anecdotes.
• Includes cultural shifts like changes in diet and music, making history relevant.
• Accessible for most travelers with a small group of up to 30 people.
• Free admission makes it a good value for the experience offered.

A Closer Look at the Reykjavik WWII Walking Tour

If you’re considering this tour, what exactly will your two hours look like? It’s not just a walk around the city, but a carefully curated glimpse into Reykjavik’s wartime experience. The guide, who adopts a period-appropriate persona, takes you through key spots in the city, starting at Hotel Borg. From there, you follow in the footsteps of the British invasion and the subsequent American presence, all narrated with enthusiasm and historical accuracy.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at the Hotel Borg, a notable Reykjavik landmark. Here, the guide sets the scene, explaining how the British arrived and how their invasion marked a turning point for Iceland’s capital. The storytelling is enriched with period photos and videos, which visually contrast then and now, giving you a vivid sense of change over time. The visual aids are a highlight, making what could be abstract history much more concrete.

As you walk through the city, the guide discusses key subjects like the US military presence and the Arctic convoys, which were vital supply routes during the war. These stories help you understand how global conflicts touched this small island nation. The tour also touches on social changes, such as Icelanders learning to dance to Rock and Roll, and shifting diets—details that connect history to everyday life.

Social and Cultural Impact

One of the most interesting angles of this tour is how it explores the social effects of WWII in Iceland. For example, we loved the way the guide described young Icelanders embracing new music and new dance styles, which marked a cultural shift during a tumultuous time. The tour brings out these stories with humor and warmth, preventing what could be a dry lecture from feeling heavy.

The Atmosphere and Group Size

Given that the tour is capped at 30 travelers, the group remains comfortably manageable. This means you’re more likely to get personalized attention or ask questions. The meeting point at Hotel Borg is central and accessible via public transportation, which makes logistics simple. Plus, since the tour is mobile ticketed and runs in good weather, it’s flexible and practical.

Value for Money and Overall Experience

At $40 per person, the tour offers a decent value considering it’s a guided experience with visual aids and storytelling. It’s not long enough to be exhaustive but gives you a meaningful overview, especially if history is your thing. The fact that the reviews are perfect (5/5 based on two reviews) indicates that travelers leaving feedback found it worthwhile.

While we haven’t heard of any major downsides from reviews, some travelers might find the two-hour duration a bit quick if they want a deep-dive. However, the free cancellation policy adds peace of mind—should the weather turn or plans change, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those wanting a light yet engaging look at Reykjavik’s WWII involvement. History buffs, cultural explorers, or travelers with a passing interest in the era will find it enriching. It’s also a nice option if you prefer walking tours over bus excursions, as it allows you to absorb the city’s atmosphere.

It’s not ideal if you’re seeking a detailed military history or an extensive tour—they keep it concise and focused on social and cultural impacts. Also, since part of the tour involves visual storytelling, a good understanding of English or comfort with guided narration is helpful.

Final Thoughts

In the end, this World War Two Walking Tour in Reykjavik offers an authentic, approachable way to understand an often-overlooked part of Iceland’s history. The mix of visual aids, storytelling, and cultural anecdotes makes it more than just a history lesson — it’s a personal, vivid glimpse into how global events shaped local life.

While it’s not for those craving a full military history or a long trek, it excels at providing a memorable, informative snapshot. For travelers interested in history, culture, or just a different way to explore Reykjavik, this tour is a small investment that adds meaningful context to your visit.

If you’re nearby, curious about the wartime influence on Iceland, or enjoy a well-told story, this is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, older children interested in history and storytelling will likely find it engaging. It’s a walking tour with visual aids, so younger kids may lose interest quickly.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately two hours, which is a manageable length to keep things interesting without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at Hotel Borg by Keahotels, located at Pósthússtræti 11, 101 Reykjavík. It’s centrally located and accessible via public transportation.

What’s included in the tour?
You’ll have an in-person guide who uses period photos and videos to tell the story. The tour itself is free to join after booking, and tickets are mobile.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The policy is straightforward and offers flexibility in case of bad weather or schedule changes.

Is it weather-dependent?
Yes, since it’s an outdoor walking tour, poor weather could lead to cancellation or rescheduling. In such cases, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re interested in this blend of history and culture, and want a tour that’s engaging without being overwhelming, it’s a pretty solid choice. Not the longest or most detailed experience out there, but certainly a memorable way to connect with Reykjavik’s past during WWII.