Exploring Reykjavik during the Christmas season is a treat, and this private tour promises a cozy, festive experience in the heart of Iceland’s capital. While I haven’t taken this exact tour myself, reviews and detailed descriptions reveal a charming way to enjoy holiday cheer away from the crowds.
What truly makes this tour appealing are the personalized touch of a private guide, the chance to see iconic sites like Hallgrimskirkja, and the opportunity to soak in Reykjavik’s natural beauty with a holiday glow. We love that it’s designed for small groups, allowing for more intimate moments and flexible pacing. The only possible downside? At two hours, it’s a quick peek rather than an exhaustive exploration, so if you’re craving more in-depth sightseeing, you might want to supplement with additional activities.
This experience is perfect for couples, families, or small groups seeking a festive, hassle-free way to enjoy Reykjavik’s Christmas spirit. If you’re after authentic moments, stunning views, and a private guide’s insights, this tour could be a highlight of your holiday trip.
Good To Know

- Private Experience: Personalized tour for your group only, enhancing comfort and flexibility.
- Festive Atmosphere: Streets glow with Christmas lights, and sounds of the season fill the air.
- Iconic Locations: Starts at Hallgrimskirkja and visits charming neighborhoods like Skólavörðustígur, Rainbow Street, and Austurvöllur.
- Natural Beauty: Expect stunning winter scenery and city views.
- Duration & Cost: Two hours for $1,561 per group (up to 4), offering good value for a personalized, festive experience.
- Expert Guide: Local guide available in English and Icelandic, sharing insights and holiday traditions.
A Detailed Look at the Reykjavik Christmas Private Tour
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Starting Point: Hallgrimskirkja
The tour kicks off at Hallgrimskirkja, Reykjavik’s most iconic church, known for its striking architecture and panoramic views from its tower. While the admission fee to the tower isn’t included, the guided 22-minute tour provides a great overview of its history and design. Standing beneath its towering concrete spire, you’ll start to feel the Christmas magic settle in as the city’s lights twinkle in the background.
Skólavörðustígur
Next, the guide takes you along Skólavörðustígur, a lively street famous for its colorful boutiques, cafes, and Christmas decorations. Here, you can imagine locals and visitors alike browsing for holiday gifts or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere. With about 21 minutes at this stop, it’s enough to soak in the cheerful vibe and maybe snap some photos of the beautifully lit street.
Rainbow Street
Then, your route leads to Rainbow Street, a neighborhood known for its vibrant, rainbow-hued houses—an unexpected splash of color in winter. The guide might share stories about the area’s history and how residents celebrate the holidays. This spot offers a delightful contrast to the more traditional winter scenes, adding a splash of color to your Christmas memory.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyAusturvöllur
Austurvöllur square becomes a focal point of holiday activity. Surrounded by cafes and government buildings, it often hosts Christmas markets and seasonal events during the holidays. You might catch the scent of mulled wine or taste a piparkökur (gingerbread). The guide will point out notable landmarks and local traditions, helping you understand how Reykjavik embraces Christmas.
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Fógetagarðurinn
Finally, the tour concludes at Fógetagarðurinn, a charming park where Christmas lights and decorations create a cozy scene. Here, you can reflect on the tour, with the shimmering lights and crisp winter air wrapping up your holiday experience.
What’s Included and What You Should Know
The tour is led by a professional local guide, available in English and Icelandic, who will share insights into the city’s Christmas traditions and natural beauty. The private nature of the tour means you can customize the pacing and ask questions, making it a truly tailored experience.
Cost-wise, at $1,561 for up to four people, this tour offers considerable value for those seeking an intimate, guided Christmas outing. While admission fees to attractions like the Hallgrimskirkja tower aren’t included, the tour’s focus on sights, sounds, and stories provides a rich, immersive experience that justifies the price.
Meeting point is conveniently located at the main entrance of Hallgrimskirkja, making it easy to find and plan around.
Why This Tour Might Be Right for You

If you’re seeking a relaxed, personalized way to explore Reykjavik during Christmas, this tour stands out. Small groups mean you won’t get lost in crowds, and the local guide’s knowledge will enrich your understanding of Icelandic holiday traditions. The walk covers key highlights without feeling rushed, with plenty of opportunities for photos and questions.
However, if you’re after a more extensive or energetic exploration, this two-hour cruise might feel a bit brief. It’s best suited for those who want a relaxed, festive walk and a chance to see the city’s Christmas spirit up close.
Final Thoughts
This private Christmas tour offers a cozy, authentic way to experience Reykjavik’s holiday magic. The intimate setting, cultural insights, and stunning city views make it an excellent choice for small groups or couples looking for a special winter outing.
While the price may seem high for just two hours, the personalized attention and the chance to avoid the crowds create significant value. It’s particularly perfect if you want a relaxed, family-friendly experience that combines iconic sights with the warmth of Icelandic holiday cheer.
For travelers wanting a well-rounded, scenic, and intimate Christmas experience in Reykjavik, this tour is a compelling option—especially if you love discovering local traditions in charming surroundings.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the private nature and short duration make it suitable for families, especially those wanting a manageable, festive outing.
Can I customize the route or stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you can ask the guide to spend more time at certain spots or include specific sights if you like.
Are there any age restrictions?
There are no age restrictions mentioned; it’s a walking tour, so children should be comfortable with a 2-hour stroll.
What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak both English and Icelandic, so you can choose based on your preference.
Is there any flexibility with meeting times?
You’ll need to check availability, but tours can be scheduled depending on your preferred start time within the tour’s operating hours.
Does the tour include access to any paid attractions?
No, entrance fees such as for the Hallgrimskirkja tower are not included, so plan accordingly if you want to visit those sites afterward.
To sum it up, this private Christmas tour in Reykjavik offers a delightful, tailored way to soak up the city’s holiday spirit. With stunning views, an intimate group setting, and insightful guides, it’s a memorable addition to any winter trip to Iceland. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to celebrate the season, this experience promises a cozy, festive glimpse of Reykjavik’s Christmas charm.
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