The Icelandic Christmas Advent Driving Tour

Reykjavik , Iceland

The Icelandic Christmas Advent Driving Tour

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About this experience

Discover the magic of Iceland’s holiday season with our Icelandic Christmas Driving Tour, available only on Advent weekends!

This unique journey immerses you in local traditions, folklore, and festivities. Start at the Christmas Market in Heiðmörk Nature Reserve, exploring artisan stalls and enjoying seasonal treats amid serene winter scenery—keep an eye out for the playful Yule Lads!

Then, visit Jólaþorpið, the Christmas Village in Hafnarfjörður, where festive stalls, handmade gifts, and Icelandic treats await. Watch out for Grýla, the troll mother of the Yule Lads, known for her fearsome reputation! Finally, head to Downtown Reykjavik to skate on the Christmas Ice Rink, browse the Little Christmas Store, and enjoy holiday displays, including the legendary Christmas Cat.

Stay cozy with a hot drink as your guide shares tales of Icelandic holiday legends. Each guest receives a special gift to complete this unforgettable holiday adventure filled with Icelandic magic and cheer.

Available options

Group of up to 8 Passengers

Pickup included

Group of up to 15 Passengers

Bigger vehicle <br/>Pickup included

What's included

WiFi on board

Licensed Guide

Air-conditioned vehicle

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

We’ll start at the Christmas Market in Heiðmörk Nature Reserve, where you can browse artisan stalls, enjoy seasonal treats, and soak in the serene winter landscape. But keep your eyes open—rumor has it that Iceland’s Yule Lads, the playful Icelandic “Santas,” may be wandering around, ready to share their unique holiday spirit… or even cause a bit of mischief!

Next, we head to the Christmas Village, Jólaþorpið, in Hafnarfjörður. Here, festive wooden stalls, handmade gifts, and Icelandic treats create a warm holiday atmosphere. But don’t be too comfortable—you might even catch a glimpse of the legendary Grýla, the troll mother of the Yule Lads, who’s known for her fearsome reputation!

Finally, we journey to Downtown Reykjavik, where you can skate on the Christmas Ice Rink, explore the Little Christmas Store, and delight in holiday displays. Along the way, you’ll spot the ferocious Christmas Cat, known for prowling around during the season and looking for anyone without new clothes for the holiday! But don’t worry, we’ve got a cozy hot drink to keep you warm as you hear more about these Icelandic holiday tales from your guide.

Plus, as a special touch, each guest will receive a gift from underneath a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, a little token of Iceland’s holiday spirit.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN FR ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the world's northernmost capital city, known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural surroundings, and unique Icelandic charm. It offers a blend of modern amenities and ancient geothermal wonders, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Top Attractions

Hallgrímskirkja

This iconic church is a landmark of Reykjavik, known for its distinctive architecture and towering spire. It offers panoramic views of the city from its tower.

Architecture/Religious 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1000 for the tower)

Harpa Concert Hall

A stunning modern concert hall with a glass facade that reflects the surrounding landscape. It hosts a variety of performances and events.

Architecture/Entertainment 1-2 hours Free to enter, performance tickets vary

Blue Lagoon

A geothermal spa known for its milky-blue waters rich in minerals. It's a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Nature/Relaxation Half a day Expensive (ISK 49,900 and up)

Reykjavik Art Museum

A museum showcasing contemporary Icelandic and international art. It's housed in a striking building with a glass facade.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1400)

Perlan Museum

A unique museum located in a glass dome that offers a variety of exhibits, including a glacier exhibit and a planetarium.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive (ISK 3,990 and up)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plokkfiskur

A traditional Icelandic fish stew made with mashed potatoes, white fish, onions, and béchamel sauce.

Main Course Contains fish and dairy

Hákarl

Fermented shark, a traditional Icelandic delicacy known for its strong smell and taste.

Snack Contains fish

Skyr

A thick, creamy Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product, often served with berries or cream.

Dessert Contains dairy

Rúgbrauð

A dense, dark rye bread traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat.

Bread Vegan

Popular Activities

Glacier hiking and ice climbing Whale watching Snowmobiling on a glacier Caving and lava tunnel exploration Visiting geothermal spas like the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon Enjoying a traditional Icelandic massage or spa treatment Taking a leisurely walk around Tjörnin Lake in Reykjavik Visiting museums and galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest time of the year with long daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with numerous festivals and events.

8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F) 46°F to 55°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Icelandic
Widely spoken: English, Danish, German
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Icelandic Króna (ISK)

Time Zone

GMT+0

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Iceland is a very safe country with low crime rates. However, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and only use ATMs located in secure, well-lit areas
• Research tour operators and rental companies before booking to ensure they are reputable and legitimate

Getting there

By air

Keflavík International Airport • 50 km (31 miles) from Reykjavik

By bus

BSÍ Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services and easy-to-use ticketing.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bustravel, Uber (limited availability)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Reykjavik Hlemmur Vesturbær

Day trips

Golden Circle

230 km (143 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day

A popular day trip route that includes three of Iceland's most famous attractions: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

South Coast

150-200 km (93-124 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic drive along Iceland's south coast, offering a variety of attractions, including waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

240 km (149 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic peninsula known as 'Iceland in Miniature' due to its diverse landscapes, including mountains, glaciers, lava fields, and beaches.

Festivals

Reykjavik Arts Festival • Late May to early June Iceland Airwaves • Early November Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival • Late January to early February

Pro tips

Visit the Blue Lagoon or another geothermal spa for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience
Explore Reykjavik's street art and murals, which can be found throughout the city
Take a day trip to the Golden Circle or another nearby attraction for a taste of Iceland's natural wonders
Try traditional Icelandic food, such as lamb soup, fish stew, and fermented shark
Visit a local brewery or distillery and sample Icelandic craft beer or spirits