Reykjavík Christmas Walking Tour
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Description
Festive downtown walk: Explore Reykjavík’s Christmas-lit streets with a local guide and get a warm, story-filled introduction to Icelandic holiday traditions.
Icelandic Christmas folklore: Hear the tales behind the 13 Yule Lads, their mother Grýla, and the legendary Christmas Cat, with fun details you’ll spot around the city in December.
Ingólfstorg & seasonal sights: Start in the heart of town and take in holiday decorations, the ice-skating area, and the Christmas market vibe in and around the central squares.
Austurvöllur & the Oslo Christmas Tree: Continue towards Reykjavík’s classic Christmas landmarks while your guide points out local traditions and the stories behind them.
Laugavegur & Christmas shops: Stroll the main shopping street and pop into places that capture the cosy, quirky side of Icelandic Christmas. There may also be small perks at select stops along the way.
Hallgrímskirkja finale: Finish the walk along Skólavörðustígur, ending near Hallgrímskirkja, one of Reykjavík’s most iconic viewpoints and winter photo spots.
Time to plan: This is typically a ~2-hour walking tour, at an easy pace with plenty of time for stories and seasonal stops.
What is included
- Guided Christmas walking tour in downtown Reykjavík
- Icelandic Christmas folklore and local traditions (Yule Lads, Grýla, Christmas Cat)
- Coffee, tea, soda, and an Icelandic pastry
What do I need to bring
- Warm winter clothing (hat, gloves, and a windproof layer)
- Good winter shoes with grip (streets can be icy)
- Optional traction cleats if you like extra stability
- Phone/camera for festive photos
Good to know
- This is a walking tour in Reykjavík (no transfers included).
- Operates in December and is a popular seasonal experience, so book early when dates open.
- Please arrive 5 minutes before departure to check in with the guide.
- Expect typical winter conditions: cold air, possible wind, and slippery patches.
Get directions
Look for the two tall stone cat pillars by the square and the nearby Center Hotel Plaza.
Highlights
- Reykjavík Christmas lights and festive city atmosphere
- Yule Lads folklore, Grýla, and the Christmas Cat stories
- Seasonal squares, decorations, and market vibes in downtown
- Laugavegur Christmas shopping street and cosy winter stops
- Finish near Hallgrímskirkja via Skólavörðustígur
- Warm drink and Icelandic pastry included
Reykjavík Christmas Walking Tour FAQ
How long is the tour?
The walk is usually about 2 hours, at a comfortable pace with time for stories and seasonal stops.
Is the tour suitable for kids?
Yes, it’s family-friendly and focuses on festive sights and Icelandic Christmas folklore that most ages enjoy.
Do we go inside shops or markets?
Stops can vary, but the route typically includes festive areas and Christmas-themed shops. Some visits depend on opening hours and the group pace.
What if the streets are icy?
Wear winter shoes with good grip. Traction cleats are a great extra if you want more stability in December conditions.
Where exactly do we meet?
Meet outside Hlöllabátar at Austurstræti 1, by Ingólfstorg square. Arrive 5 minutes early and look for the stone cat pillars nearby.
Is this tour available outside December?
This experience is seasonal and normally runs in December only.