Discover Reykjavik’s Christmas Spirit with a Private Walking Tour

The Reykjavik: Private Christmas Walking Tour offers an engaging way to experience Iceland’s unique holiday traditions in the heart of the city. For $155 per person, this 2-hour tour takes visitors through Reykjavik’s festively decorated streets, highlighting iconic sights like the Hallgrímskirkja and the Oslo Christmas Tree. It’s perfect for those who want an intimate, guided glimpse into Iceland’s Christmas folklore, complete with stories, local treats, and special discounts at holiday stores.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on Icelandic Christmas legends—from the 13 Santas to the mischievous Troll Grýla and the formidable Christmas Cat. Participants get to explore Reykjavik’s charming Christmas markets, admire holiday lights, and learn about local customs in a cozy, private setting. The tour is family-friendly, wheelchair accessible, and offers flexibility with reserving now and paying later, making it an appealing choice for holiday travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Intimate experience: Private group walking tour through downtown Reykjavik
Cultural highlights: Meet the 13 Icelandic Santas, their mother Grýla, and the Christmas Cat
Festive sights: See the Ice skating rink, Christmas market stalls, and the Oslo Christmas Tree
Includes treats: Enjoy hot cocoa and a pastry during the walk
Shopping discounts: Receive special offers at selected Christmas stores and stalls
Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund

Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Reykjavik

Starting Point at Fógetagarðurinn in Reykjavik

The tour begins at Fógetagarðurinn, a convenient meeting spot in downtown Reykjavik. From there, the guide leads the group along festively lit streets, which are decorated with holiday lights, Christmas market stalls, and colorful displays. This setting creates a warm holiday atmosphere, even in December’s chilly weather.

Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing to enjoy the walking pace comfortably. The tour’s short duration of 2 hours makes it ideal for an afternoon activity, especially for families or those on a tight schedule. No need for transportation—everything takes place on foot, allowing for close-up views of Reykjavik’s holiday decorations.

Exploring Reykjavik’s Christmas Market Stalls and Decorations

At the heart of the tour, Ingólfur Square showcases Reykjavik’s Ice skating rink, holiday decorations, and charming Christmas market stalls. Here, visitors can take in the festive atmosphere and observe the local way of celebrating Christmas through colorful lights and market activities.

Moving on, the famous Oslo Christmas Tree at Austurvollur is a highlight. This majestic tree, traditionally a gift from Oslo, Norway, is decorated beautifully, marking a key symbol of Iceland’s holiday season. The guide shares insights into its history, adding depth to the visual spectacle.

Meeting the Icelandic Santa Legends and Folklore

A major part of the tour involves learning about the 13 Santas of Iceland, each with distinctive personalities and stories. These figures are tied to Icelandic traditions, where each Santa brings a unique gift or mischief. The mother of the Santas, Grýla, is also introduced as a troll figure who eats naughty children, adding a playful yet traditional element to the folklore.

The Christmas Cat, a fierce feline from Icelandic tales, is also featured as part of the folklore, rounding out the trio of Christmas legends that bring Iceland’s Yuletide stories to life. These stories are shared with engaging, exciting storytelling, enriching the festive experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Unique Stops at Icelandic Bookstores and Christmas Shops

A short visit to a local Icelandic bookstore gives a glimpse into the love Icelanders have for books, especially during Christmas. Visitors can browse a selection of unique Icelandic Christmas books, making it a special cultural stop.

Next, the tour includes a visit to a small Christmas store, where holiday-themed items and decorations are available. Participants enjoy discounts at these stores, adding value and making shopping for Icelandic-style Christmas gifts more accessible. The route also passes by other Christmas stalls and stores, offering a glimpse of local holiday crafts and souvenirs.

If you're drawn to exploring Reykjavik on foot, we've looked into these other walking experiences

From Hallgrímskirkja to the Festive Skólavörðustígur

The walk culminates at the Hallgrímskirkja, Reykjavik’s iconic church. Along Skólavörðustígur, the guide points out select stores with Christmas-related goods, giving visitors a chance to soak in the vibrant holiday ambiance. The stunning architecture of Hallgrímskirkja provides a perfect backdrop for holiday photos and reflections on Iceland’s unique spiritual traditions during Christmas.

Enjoying Warmth and Treats Amidst the Cold

One of the tour’s highlights is enjoying hot cocoa and a pastry, which are included in the experience. These warm treats help participants relax and savor the moment while listening to stories about Icelandic Christmas customs. This simple addition adds to the cozy, festive feel of the walk and offers a delightful break from the December chill.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a broad range of travelers. It operates only in December, aligning with the festive season, and offers live guides in English, German, French, and Spanish. The private group setting enhances the intimacy and allows for personalized attention.

No hotel pickup or drop-off is included, so participants should plan to meet at Fógetagarðurinn. The tour is designed to be family-friendly and encourages visitors to bring a camera to capture the colorful lights and charming sights along the route.

Special Offers and Booking Flexibility

Booking is flexible, with reservation options that allow payment later. Cancellation is free if done up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind amidst changing travel plans. The inclusion of discounts at Christmas stores and restaurants makes this tour a good value for those looking to enjoy Reykjavik’s holiday offerings without overspending.

Why This Tour Is a Great Holiday Activity

This private Christmas walking tour offers a thoughtful blend of cultural storytelling, festive sights, and local treats. It’s best suited for families, couples, or small groups seeking an authentic, immersive experience of Icelandic Yuletide traditions. The focus on legendary figures like the 13 Santas, Grýla, and the Christmas Cat makes it especially engaging for those interested in folklore.

While the tour is limited to December, it offers a well-paced, manageable way to enjoy Reykjavik’s holiday sparkle. The combination of sightseeing, storytelling, shopping discounts, and treats makes it an appealing choice for those who want a memorable, cozy introduction to Iceland’s Christmas customs.

✨ Book This Experience

Reykjavik: Private Christmas Walking Tour

4.7

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and includes stories that appeal to children and adults alike.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a compact yet comprehensive experience.

What should I wear?
Visitors should dress in warm clothing and comfortable shoes suitable for walking in cold weather.

Does the tour include meals?
The tour only includes hot cocoa and a pastry; no additional meals are provided.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour start.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is accessible for wheelchair users.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is Fógetagarðurinn in downtown Reykjavik.

Are there guides in multiple languages?
Yes, guides are available in English, German, French, and Spanish.

Are there discounts available?
Yes, participants receive discounts at select Christmas stores and stalls.

What makes this tour different from other Reykjavik experiences?
Its focus on Icelandic Christmas traditions and folklore, combined with personalized guide attention in a private group setting, offers a special holiday perspective.

Is this tour available outside December?
No, the tour operates only in December to match the Christmas season.