Private Food Walking Tour in Reykjavik

Discover Reykjavik’s Unique Food Scene with a Private Guide

The Private Food Walking Tour in Reykjavik offers an immersive 3-hour experience that takes you through the city’s most interesting culinary spots. Priced at $208.15 per person, this tour is ideal for those eager to explore Icelandic cuisine in an authentic setting. It is designed as a private experience, ensuring personalized attention and tailored insights from the guide.

This tour departs from Ingólfur Square in the old town, a historic starting point marked by two stone pillars. From there, it travels through Reykjavik’s vibrant food landscape, highlighting local specialties such as smoked puffin, lamb hot dogs, and fermented shark. The tour also offers pickup options and is highly recommended for adventurous eaters who appreciate learning about Iceland’s culture while tasting its traditional foods.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is its comprehensive itinerary that balances sampling local treats with cultural storytelling. The average booking window is 71 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. While the tour is priced higher than some group experiences, the personalized guidance and exclusive stops make it a worthwhile choice for food fans and curious visitors.

Key Points

• Personalized private tour with expert guides in Reykjavik
• Includes Icelandic delicacies such as fermented shark and smoked puffin
• Duration of approximately 3 hours, covering multiple local food stops
• Starts at Ingólfur Square and ends near Hallgrimskirkja church
• Includes visits to a supermarket and Reykjavik Flea Market (weekend only)
• Includes a tasting at Dass Reykjavik with options for alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks

Starting Point at Ingólfur Square and Its Significance

The tour kicks off at Ingólfur Square, the historic heart of Reykjavik. This spot is marked by two stone pillars that symbolize the city’s founding by Ingólfur Arnarson, Iceland’s first settler. It’s a recognizable meeting point and provides a meaningful start by connecting food to Iceland’s early history.

From this central location, the guide sets the tone by sharing stories about Reykjavik’s origins, making the experience both cultural and culinary from the very beginning. The free admission to this initial stop makes it an accessible introduction.

Sampling Icelandic Shellfish Soup at Reykjavik Harbour

The first tasting occurs down at Reykjavik Harbour, a lively area where fresh seafood is integral to local cuisine. Here, the tour features an Icelandic shellfish soup, a flavorful appetizer that showcases the region’s maritime bounty.

Spending about 25 minutes at this stop, guests discover how Iceland’s abundant waters influence its culinary traditions. The guide explains the ingredients and preparation methods, adding context to the tasting experience. The harbor setting offers a scenic backdrop, enhancing the overall enjoyment.

The Iconic Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur Hot Dog Stand

No visit to Reykjavik is complete without stopping at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, the city’s legendary hot dog stand. This stop, lasting around 20 minutes, offers the chance to taste a lamb hot dog, Iceland’s most famous fast food.

The stand’s reputation is well-earned, and the guide emphasizes the importance of trying an authentic Icelandic hot dog here—beware of copycats trying to imitate it elsewhere. This classic snack is a quick, satisfying highlight that pairs well with the tour’s other culinary discoveries.

Exploring Local Icelandic Foods at the Supermarket

A brief 10-minute stop inside a local supermarket provides insight into Icelandic food shopping habits. This part of the tour introduces unique Icelandic snacks and candies, giving a taste of the everyday foods enjoyed by locals.

Guests can see the variety of ingredients and products that shape Icelandic diets. The guide’s explanations help demystify the local grocery offerings, making it a practical and tasty addition to the tour.

Weekend Visit to Kolaportið Flea Market

If the tour coincides with a Saturday or Sunday, it includes a 20-minute walk through Kolaportið, Reykjavik’s authentic flea market. Open from 11 am to 5 pm, this market offers an array of traditional Icelandic foods and handmade crafts.

Here, the group explores traditional Icelandic delicacies and unique street foods that are difficult to find elsewhere. The market’s lively atmosphere and local vendors provide a genuine feel of Reykjavik’s food culture, making this stop a highlight for those visiting on weekends.

Tasting Icelandic Delicacies at Dass Reykjavik

The tour culminates at Dass Reykjavik, a distinctive restaurant near Hallgrimskirkja church. Over about 40 minutes, guests sample several Icelandic delicacies, including the infamous fermented shark (Hakarl).

The guide assists with understanding how to eat Hakarl properly, making the experience accessible even for the most adventurous. Guests also enjoy a drink of their choice—either alcoholic or non-alcoholic—celebrating their culinary journey in style.

Logistics: Meeting Point, Duration, and Group Size

The tour begins at Ingólfur Square, easily accessible in the old Reykjavik city center. The group size is private, meaning only your party participates, which allows for more personalized attention and flexible pacing.

The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable activity for most visitors. The tour also offers pickup options and is designed to fit into a morning or early afternoon schedule. It is suitable for most travelers, with most being able to participate without special requirements.

The Guide: Knowledgeable, Friendly, and Entertaining

Reviews highlight guides like Bjarni, Olaf, Stefan, Guoni, and Ester as being friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share both food insights and Icelandic history. They often add personal touches, such as singing or answering spontaneous questions, which enhances the experience.

The guides’ ability to explain local customs, history, and food preparation techniques earns high praise, making each stop engaging and informative. Their patience and humor make the tour enjoyable for families, solo travelers, and groups alike.

Value for Money and Booking Insights

While the tour is priced at $208.15 per person, reviews suggest it offers great value considering the personalized attention, exclusive tastings, and cultural insights. The advance booking window of 71 days indicates its popularity and suggests securing a spot early is recommended.

The cancellation policy is flexible, offering full refunds if canceled more than 24 hours in advance, which adds peace of mind when planning.

Who Will Love This Food Tour in Reykjavik?

This experience suits foodies, culture enthusiasts, and adventurous eaters eager to try Icelandic specialties like fermented shark, puffin, and lamb hot dogs. It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy learning about local customs and history while tasting authentic dishes.

The private nature makes it ideal for couples, families, or small groups looking for a personalized tour. The stops at markets, supermarkets, and restaurants ensure a well-rounded taste of Reykjavik’s culinary landscape.

Final Thoughts on the Reykjavik Food Tour

The Private Food Walking Tour in Reykjavik delivers a comprehensive, intimate exploration of Icelandic cuisine within a relaxed three-hour window. The expert guides provide engaging stories alongside tastings of iconic and traditional foods, making it an educational and delicious outing.

While priced slightly higher than group tours, the personalized experience and exclusive access to places like Dass Reykjavik and the flea market make it worthwhile, especially for those wanting a deeper dive into local flavors.

This tour is particularly well-suited for adventurous eaters who want to sample Iceland’s culinary icons, including fermented shark and puffin, and for visitors who appreciate cultural insights coupled with tasting experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $208.15 fee covers guided visits to multiple food stops, tastings of traditional and local Icelandic foods, and drinks at the final restaurant. It also includes visits to a supermarket and optionally, the flea market on weekends.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, providing a manageable and enjoyable pace for most guests.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour involves tasting some adventurous foods like fermented shark, which may not appeal to all children.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Ingólfur Square in the old town and ends near Hallgrimskirkja church at Dass Reykjavik.

Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated?
The tour includes both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, and guides are attentive to guest preferences. Specific restrictions are not detailed but can be discussed upon booking.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.