Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour

Discover the Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour for the Festive Season

The Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour offers an engaging way to celebrate the holidays in Iceland’s capital. Priced at $64 per person, this 2-hour guided walk takes visitors through the heart of Reykjavik’s holiday decorations, markets, and traditions. The tour departs from Center Hotels Plaza and is perfect for those wanting to soak up Icelandic Christmas spirit with minimal time commitment. The experience is family-friendly and operated by Your Friend In Reykjavik, with live English guides leading the way.

This tour stands out for its focus on local Christmas traditions, folk tales, and Iceland’s unique Santa lore, including the 13 Yule Lads, Troll Grýla, and the ferocious Christmas Cat. While it covers key Reykjavik sights and festive hotspots, it also offers fun surprises and discounts at Christmas stores and stalls. The straightforward 2-hour duration makes this a manageable outing during winter visits, though it’s essential to dress warmly due to Iceland’s cold December weather.

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Key Points

• Price: $64 per person for a 2-hour guided walking tour
• Focus: Icelandic Christmas traditions, folk tales, and festive sights
• Highlights: Christmas markets, Oslo Christmas Tree, Icelandic Santa lore, and Hallgrímskirkja
• Stops: Ingólfur Square, Austurvöllur, Laugavegur, Litla Jólabúðin, and Hallgrímskirkja
• Extras: Discounts at Christmas stores and stalls included

Starting Point at Center Hotels Plaza

The tour begins in front of Center Hotels Plaza at Aðalstræti 4-6 in downtown Reykjavik. Visitors are advised to arrive 5 minutes early to prepare for the walk. The meeting point is easy to find, and the tour wraps up back at this location, making it convenient for those staying nearby or planning to continue exploring after.

Exploring Ingólfur Square and Its Festive Atmosphere

The first stop at Ingólfur Square introduces visitors to Reykjavik’s holiday decorations, including the ice skating rink and Christmas market stalls. Here, the guide shares stories behind Iceland’s Christmas customs while you enjoy the lively atmosphere and decorated surroundings. This spot offers a great introduction to the local holiday cheer, setting a joyful tone for the walk ahead.

Austurvöllur Square and the Oslo Christmas Tree

Next, the tour moves to Austurvöllur Square, home to the famous Oslo Christmas Tree. This iconic tree is a central part of Reykjavik’s Christmas scene and provides an excellent photo opportunity. From here, the guide explains the significance of the tree and the festive traditions connected to it, adding context to the Icelandic holiday celebrations.

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Walking Laugavegur and Discovering Icelandic Santa Legends

Laugavegur, Reykjavik’s main shopping street, is the next stop on the route. The guide points out the little Christmas store, which offers a glimpse of local Christmas merchandise and treats. During the walk, attention is given to Iceland’s Santa lore, including the 13 Yule Lads—Santa figures with quirky personalities—and the Troll Grýla, known for her mischievous folk tales involving naughty children.

Visiting Litla Jólabúðin and Its Christmas Charm

A highlight of the tour is the visit to Litla Jólabúðin, a small Christmas store that offers a charming atmosphere and unique Icelandic decorations. Visitors can take photos and browse holiday items, gaining insight into Iceland’s love for Christmas-themed merchandise. The guide may also point out special offers and surprises available in-store, making this a fun and festive stop.

Admiring Hallgrímskirkja and Its Christmas Lights

The tour concludes at Hallgrímskirkja, Reykjavik’s most famous church. Visitors get a chance to admire the Christmas decorations and lights adorning the church, along with a brief look inside if time permits. The sight of Hallgrímskirkja illuminated against the winter sky offers a memorable ending to this holiday stroll.

The Unique Icelandic Christmas Lore and Folk Tales

Throughout the walk, the guide shares stories about Icelandic Christmas traditions, including the 13 Yule Lads who arrive one by one leading up to Christmas, and the Troll Grýla who is said to eat naughty children. The ferocious Christmas Cat is also part of the folklore, adding a playful and slightly mischievous tone to the experience. These tales bring the Icelandic holiday atmosphere to life, making the tour both fun and educational.

Food, Drinks, and Special Offers During the Tour

While the main focus of the tour is on sights and stories, there’s an opportunity to learn about traditional Icelandic Christmas foods and drinks. The guide may mention local delicacies considered festive, and some stops might include tastings or discounts at selected Christmas stalls and restaurants. These offers enhance the experience, allowing visitors to enjoy Iceland’s holiday flavors without extra cost.

Practical Details: Logistics and Accessibility

The meeting point is in front of Center Hotels Plaza, with the tour ending back at the same location. The activity is suitable for families and is operated in English. The tour can be booked as a private group for a more personalized experience, and full cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. It’s recommended to dress in layers and weather-appropriate clothing due to Iceland’s cold December climate.

Why Choose This Christmas Walking Tour?

This tour offers a compact and accessible way to experience Reykjavik’s festive spirit, combining sights, folklore, and local traditions. Its moderate price and 2-hour format make it a practical choice for travelers short on time or looking for a family-friendly activity. The inclusion of discounts at Christmas stores and stalls adds value, and the guide’s storytelling makes the experience lively and engaging.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

Those interested in local Icelandic traditions and family-friendly activities will find this tour especially appealing. It’s ideal for visitors wanting a guided introduction to Reykjavik’s Christmas celebrations without the need for extensive walking or complex logistics. Travelers who enjoy folklore, festive markets, and iconic sights like Hallgrímskirkja will also find this experience rewarding.

Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour: Final Thoughts

The Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour presents a charming, informative, and festive way to celebrate the holiday season in Iceland’s capital. With its focus on local traditions, folklore, and iconic sights, it offers a well-rounded snapshot of Reykjavik’s Christmas spirit in just 2 hours. The $64 price provides good value, especially with included discounts and the lively storytelling from guides.

While it doesn’t include hotel pick-up, its central meeting point makes it easy to join and continue exploring Reykjavik afterward. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a family-friendly, culturally rich holiday activity that captures the warmth and quirks of Icelandic Christmas customs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and shares Icelandic Christmas stories and folk tales suitable for children, making it a fun and educational experience for all ages.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, to secure a spot, especially during the busy Christmas season, it’s recommended to reserve ahead. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any additional costs during the tour?
The tour includes the guided walk and discounts at some stores and stalls. However, any personal purchases or extra tastings are not included.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers and wear weather-appropriate clothing suitable for Iceland’s cold December weather, as the tour involves outdoor walking in winter conditions.

Is this tour available as a private experience?
Yes, a private group option is available, offering a more tailored experience for families or groups seeking exclusivity.

Will I see inside Hallgrímskirkja?
The tour offers a photo stop and brief sightseeing at Hallgrímskirkja, with interior visits possible if time allows, but it’s primarily an exterior viewing.

Are the stops wheelchair accessible?
The data does not specify accessibility details, so it’s best to verify directly if specific mobility concerns exist before booking.

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