Reykjavik Folklore Walking Tour: Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland

The Reykjavik Folklore Walking Tour offers an engaging 1.5-hour exploration of Iceland’s legendary creatures and supernatural tales. For $49.82 per person, this guided experience takes you into the heart of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, with stops at historic cemeteries, local landmarks, and the Reykjavik Pond. Led by knowledgeable guides, it’s a perfect choice for those curious about Icelandic myths or looking for a fun, cultural activity. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is recommended, and groups are kept small enough to ensure personalized storytelling. The tour is highly rated with a perfect 5.0/5 from over 625 reviews, and 94% of participants recommend it, emphasizing its lively guides and intriguing stories.

While the tour does not include hotel pickup, it starts conveniently at Ingólfur Square in central Reykjavik and ends near the city’s parliament building. The experience combines storytelling with scenic walks, making it suitable for most travelers, including children (accompanied by adults). Some reviews note that the guide’s enthusiasm varies, but most highlight the guides’ expertise, humor, and ability to bring Icelandic legends to life.

Key Points

• Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, ideal for a quick cultural boost
• Price: Competitive at $49.82 per person
• Highlights: Visiting old cemeteries, local pond, Cathedral of Christ the King, and Austurvöllur Square
• Focus: Learning about elves, trolls, ghosts, and Icelandic guardian spirits through storytelling
• Accessibility: Suitable for most, though weather can affect the walking experience
• Popular Guide: Guides like Stefán Í and Einar are praised for their storytelling skills and lively personalities

The Oldest Neighborhoods in Reykjavik

This tour begins at Ingólfur Square, a central starting point in Reykjavik. From here, it ventures into the oldest part of town, where stories of elves and trolls are deeply woven into the landscape. The walking route covers historic sites that date back to around 900 AD, providing a scenic backdrop for storytelling.

Travelers get the chance to see the oldest graveyard in Iceland—Skúli Magnússon Sheriff—which offers a glimpse into the city’s ancient past. The historic cemeteries and landmarks give context to Iceland’s rich folklore, blending history with myth in a way that’s both educational and entertaining.

Visiting the Old Graveyard and Elf Stones

The tour’s first major stop is Skúli Magnússon Sheriff, Iceland’s oldest graveyard, which dates back to about 900 AD. Here, the guide shares stories of the spirits believed to linger among the tombstones. Nearby, at a local playground, the group visits an elf stone, where Icelanders traditionally leave offerings or show respect for elusive supernatural beings.

These stops highlight the Icelandic belief that elves and trolls inhabit the natural landscape, often avoiding human sight but influencing local traditions and stories. The guide’s explanations make the folklore vivid, connecting legends to the physical surroundings.

Exploring the Cathedral of Christ the King and Troll Myths

Next, the tour visits the Cathedral of Christ the King, where tales of trolls—notorious for their dislike of churches—are shared. This site emphasizes the humor and skepticism often woven into Icelandic stories, portraying trolls as creatures with humorous or mischievous traits.

The guide discusses how troll legends often contrast with Christian symbols, reflecting Iceland’s cultural blending of old pagan beliefs and Christian influence. Visitors learn that these stories serve as playful warnings and cultural touchstones, adding depth to Reykjavik’s historic scenery.

The Haunted Cemetery and Icelandic Ghost Lore

The group proceeds to Hólavallakirkjugarður, the second oldest cemetery in Reykjavik, famed as the haunt of the Deacon of Dark River, Iceland’s most famous ghost. A 15-minute stop here allows for atmospheric storytelling, with the guide recounting ghostly legends that have persisted through generations.

This cemetery offers a serene yet spooky atmosphere, with ancient gravestones and moss-covered tombs. It’s a favorite for fans of ghost stories, blending quiet reverence with supernatural intrigue.

Reykjavik Pond and Aquatic Monsters

The lake of Tjörnin is the next stop, where stories of Icelandic water monsters are brought to life. The guide shares tales of aquatic creatures believed to dwell beneath the surface, tying into Iceland’s long-standing fascination with mysterious water beings.

Standing near the pond, visitors can imagine the legendary monsters lurking below, making this a captivating spot for folklore enthusiasts. The stories add a sense of magic to the natural beauty of Reykjavik’s central lake.

City Hall and Guardians of Iceland

Passing Reykjavik City Hall, the tour offers insights into Icelandic guardian spirits believed to protect the city and its inhabitants. Sometimes, the guide points out specific locations on the large map of Iceland displayed inside City Hall, indicating where trolls and other creatures are said to reside.

This stop underscores the blending of myth and everyday life, showing how local legends continue to influence modern Reykjavik. It’s a brief but meaningful insight into Icelandic belief systems.

Wrapping Up at Austurvöllur Square

The tour concludes at Austurvöllur Square, close to the parliament building, where the guide summarizes the folklore stories and answers questions. This final stop leaves travelers with a sense of connection to Reykjavik’s mystical heritage, all within a manageable walking distance.

The entire route offers a balanced mix of scenic views, historic sites, and folklore storytelling, making it an engaging way to spend an afternoon or early evening.

Practical Details and Logistics

This guided tour departs from Ingólfur Square in central Reykjavik, with no hotel pickup included. The group size is flexible but generally small enough to facilitate personalized storytelling. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing warmly and appropriately is essential, especially in winter.

The professional guides are praised for their storytelling skills, humor, and knowledge. Guides like Stefán Í and Einar are especially appreciated for their engaging narratives and lively personalities, bringing Icelandic legends vividly to life.

The Experience of the Guides and Stories

Most reviews emphasize the guides’ ability to combine entertaining anecdotes with factual information. Some mention that guides may vary in enthusiasm, but overall, the guides are experienced storytellers who know how to keep the group engaged.

Guests often note that the stories range from eerie and spooky to humorous and lighthearted, making the tour suitable for a broad audience, including children when accompanied by adults. The storytelling style contributes to an immersive experience, making folklore accessible and fun.

Accessibility and Group Size

While the tour is generally accessible to most, some reviews mention that weather can impact the walking experience, especially in winter. A complaint from one review notes that the tour was not a true walking experience during cold weather, as the guide chose to stand in place rather than walk, which affected the flow and site visits.

The maximum group size is up to 999 travelers, but most experiences are smaller, ensuring personal interaction. Children are welcome if accompanied by an adult.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable. Weather-related cancellations are accommodated with the option of rescheduling or a full refund. This flexibility makes it easy to plan, knowing that sudden weather changes won’t result in lost money.

Reykjavik Folklore Walking Tour: A Cultural Journey into Icelandic Legends

The Reykjavik Folklore Walking Tour provides a lively and picturesque look at Iceland’s legendary past. With knowledgeable guides, engaging storytelling, and stops at some of Reykjavik’s most historic and scenic sites, it combines education and entertainment seamlessly. The price of $49.82 offers good value for an experience that often exceeds expectations, especially given the glowing reviews about the guides’ personalities and storytelling skills.

This tour is best suited for those interested in local myths, history, or simply seeking a fun, cultural activity. It appeals to families, casual visitors, and folklore enthusiasts alike. Be prepared for weather-dependent walking, and remember, the stories shared here make the city’s picturesque streets even more memorable.

For anyone curious about elves, trolls, ghosts, and guardian spirits, this tour offers a charming and informative glimpse into Reykjavik’s mystical side, leaving visitors with stories to tell long after the tour ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this folklore walking tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Ingólfur Square in central Reykjavik and concludes at Austurvöllur Square, near the parliament building.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup; travelers meet directly at the designated starting point.

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $49.82 per person.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, children can participate if they are accompanied by an adult.

What should I wear?
Dressing appropriately for all weather conditions is advised, as the tour operates outdoors regardless of weather.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While generally accessible, some reviews mention weather impacts, and the tour may involve standing or walking in cold conditions. Confirm specific accessibility needs in advance.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than that are non-refundable.

Who is the guide?
Guides like Stefán Í and Einar are praised for their storytelling abilities, humor, and knowledge of Icelandic folklore.

Will I see actual sites related to the stories?
Yes, stops include historic cemeteries, local landmarks, and the Reykjavik Pond, all tied to the legends shared.

Is this tour suitable in winter?
Yes, but dress warmly, and be aware that cold weather may impact the walking experience, as noted in some reviews.