Reykjavik: Christmas Walking Tour with Icelandic Traditions

Traveling to Reykjavik during December offers a magical chance to experience a city alive with Christmas cheer. While many visitors focus on the Northern Lights or geothermal baths, this Christmas Walking Tour offers a cozy, cultural glimpse into Iceland’s festive traditions.

What makes this experience truly special? First, it’s the chance to learn about the 13 Icelandic Santas, their mother, and the infamous Christmas Cat—a delightful twist on Santa lore. Second, the tour’s lively storytelling by local guides enriches the sights, making folklore come alive. Lastly, the combination of holiday decorations, market stalls, and unique Icelandic Christmas books creates a warm, authentic atmosphere.

One potential consideration is that the tour lasts only two hours, which might leave some craving more time to soak in Reykjavik’s Christmas magic. But for those seeking a festive, cultural overview, it’s a perfect fit.
This tour suits families, culture enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Icelandic holiday customs who wants a relaxed, informative stroll through Reykjavik’s winter streets.

Good To Know

• Authentic Icelandic traditions: Learn about the 13 Yule Lads, Troll Grýla, and the Christmas Cat.
• Festive sights and scenery: See holiday decorations, an ice skating rink, and Christmas market stalls.
• Cultural insights: Discover Iceland’s love for books and unique holiday folklore with stories from a local guide.
• Great value: For $64, you get a lively, two-hour tour with discounts at Christmas stores and restaurants.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for all ages, with engaging stories and festive stops.
• Accessible: The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for everyone.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Experience

This guided two-hour walking tour takes you through the heart of Reykjavik’s Christmas festivities. Meeting at Fógetagarðurinn, your guide—who in many reviews has been praised for their engaging storytelling—leads you on a leisurely stroll that balances festive sights with Icelandic folklore.

The tour is designed to be accessible and family-friendly, making it an ideal way for travelers with children or those interested in culture to enjoy a festive evening. It’s available in December only, which is perfect timing for anyone visiting Iceland during the holiday season.

What You’ll See and Experience

Starting Point: Fógetagarðurinn and Skúli Magnússon Statue

The tour begins at Víkurgarður (Fógetagarður), a central spot in Reykjavik. Here, you’ll meet your guide and start with a brief introduction to Icelandic Christmas traditions. From there, the walk begins, taking you through some of the city’s most festive spots.

Reykjavik’s Christmas Highlights

You’ll stroll past the Ice skating rink at Ingólfur Square, which transforms the city into a winter wonderland. The square also features beautiful holiday decorations and bustling Christmas stalls—perfect for snapping festive photos or browsing unique local crafts.

Next is the Oslo Christmas Tree at Austurvollur, a beloved Icelandic tradition that adds to the city’s yuletide charm. Your guide will share stories behind these symbols, giving context to their significance in Icelandic culture.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Icelandic Folklore and Yuletide Characters

The heart of the tour is exploring Iceland’s unique Christmas characters. You’ll learn about the 13 Yule Lads, mischievous Santa-like figures with distinct personalities, often hiding around the city center. Their mother, the Troll Grýla, is infamous for eating naughty children, making her a rather intimidating yet intriguing figure in Icelandic folklore.

You’ll also hear about the Christmas Cat, a fierce feline lurking in legends, supposedly hunting down those who neglect to wear warm clothes or skip holiday festivities. The storytelling is lively and engaging, turning folklore into an entertaining part of the holiday experience.

Bookstores and Icelandic Literature

A visit to a local bookstore reveals Iceland’s deep love for books, especially during Christmas. Expect to see unique Icelandic Christmas books, which often feature folklore or children’s stories, adding an authentic cultural flavor. Guests have appreciated this stop for its insight into Icelanders’ Christmas traditions beyond decorations.

Shopping and Dining Discounts

The tour ends near Laugavegur, Reykjavik’s main shopping street, where participants can enjoy discounts at select Christmas stores, stalls, and even restaurants. These offers encourage you to explore further or enjoy a cozy meal immersed in holiday cheer.

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Start at Fógetagarðurinn, where the guide introduces Icelandic Christmas traditions.
• Walk through Ingólfur Square, admiring the ice skating rink, decorations, and market stalls.
• Visit Austurvollur to see the Oslo Christmas Tree, learning about Iceland’s seasonal symbols.
• Search for Yule Lads hiding around the city, with stories about each one.
• Stop at a bookstore showcasing Icelandic holiday books and learning about Christmas literature.
• Conclude the tour on Laugavegur, with opportunities for shopping discounts and further exploration of Christmas-themed stores.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Cultural Insights

Unlike generic Christmas tours, this experience dives into Iceland’s unique folklore, blending stories with sights. The interplay of legends like Grýla and the Christmas Cat makes the legends memorable, especially for families wanting a story-rich holiday experience.

Local Guides and Stories

Guests often mention guides who are knowledgeable and engaging. One reviewer noted their guide’s storytelling skills, making folklore accessible and fun for children and adults alike.

Budget-Friendly Value

At $64 per person, the tour offers good value by combining cultural storytelling, festive sights, and exclusive discounts. Considering the inclusions and the intimate, relaxed pace, it’s a worthwhile investment for those wanting a meaningful holiday experience without breaking the bank.

Festive Atmosphere

The sights, decorations, and market stalls create an enchanting atmosphere. As one traveler shared, “Walking through Reykjavik in Christmas lights felt like stepping into a holiday postcard.” The setting is picture-perfect, especially at sunset when the city lights up.

Accessibility and Family-Friendliness

The tour’s design makes it suitable for all ages and abilities, with wheelchair accessibility and a gentle pace. The stories are suitable for children, and the stops are carefully chosen to keep everyone engaged.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress warmly: December can be cold and windy, so layer up and wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Book early: The tour is popular, especially during peak holiday weeks, so reserve your spot in advance.
• Take advantage of discounts: Bring some extra cash or a card to enjoy special offers at Christmas stores and eateries.
• Combine with other activities: After the tour, consider exploring more of Reykjavik’s Christmas markets or visiting Hallgrímskirkja for stunning city views.

Final Thoughts

This Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour offers a cozy, culturally rich way to celebrate the holiday season. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to go beyond the usual sightseeing and explore local customs and legends. The combination of folklore, festive scenery, and local insights makes it a memorable addition to any Iceland winter itinerary.

If you’re looking for an affordable, family-friendly way to enjoy Reykjavik’s Christmas spirit, this tour hits the mark. The stories and sights will stay with you long after you leave, offering a heartfelt glimpse into Iceland’s holiday traditions.

In summary, this tour is best suited for those who enjoy cultural stories, festive scenery, and authentic local experiences. It’s a relaxed, engaging way to celebrate Christmas in Reykjavik, full of surprises, warmth, and Icelandic charm.

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

How long does the tour last?
It lasts for approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable and enjoyable activity during your day.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to participate comfortably.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended as spots can fill up quickly, especially during December.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a guided walk, stories about Icelandic Christmas traditions, visits to a Christmas market and bookstore, plus discounts at select stores and restaurants.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, the tour does not include food or drinks, but you might find opportunities to sample festive treats along the way or use discounts at restaurants.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, and wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for winter weather.

This guide should help you decide whether the Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour fits your holiday plans. It combines cultural storytelling, festive sights, and local traditions in a way that feels both authentic and joyful—a memorable way to celebrate Iceland’s Christmas season.

You can check if your dates are available here: