Walk with a Viking: Private Tour of Reykjavik's Top Sights and Local Spots
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2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Private Walk With a Viking - Reykjavik Walking Tour
Our Reykjavik walking tour is your introduction to our country. It will help you get your bearings and make the most of your stay in Iceland. We recommend it as your first stop in Reykjavik.
Our family-friendly tour brings the history of Iceland to life with exciting stories and Icelandic mythology. We’ll visit all of the famous landmarks in the city center, such as Harpa Concert Hall, Reykjavik Harbour, Hallgrímskirkja Church, Reykjavik Pond, and the Parliament building. But, we’ll also share hidden, local spots with you like a visit to an Elf home, things you’d miss if you didn’t know what to look for.
We want you to feel the unique, friendly atmosphere of our quirky little city, not just to see the most popular tourist attractions. We’ll be showing you our favorite places to eat, drink and visit.
Available options
Walk with a Viking: Private Tour of Reykjavik's Top Sights and Local Spots
Pickup included
What's included
Knowledgeable Local Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
We meet up by Ingólfur Square in old town Reykjavik by the artwork of the two stone pillars with smoke coming up from the top. Here we start off talking about the Settlement and the Icelandic Sagas.
2
Stop 2
We stop on top of the museum and peer down at the first Viking house in Reykjavik and talk about Vikings. We don't enter the museum.
3
Stop 3
In a secret location close to the Settlement museum there is an Elfstone / Home of Elves. We talk about Mythology and how quirky Icelanders are in that regard.
4
Stop 4
Pass by
Close by the Settlement museum is the oldest house in the center of Reykjavik dating back to 1762.
5
We walk past favorite restaurants and bars and give you tips on where to eat, drink & be merry.
6
Stop 6
Pass by
We walk past the Reykjavik Flea Market which is only open during the weekends from 11 am - 5 pm. Tip: There is a small food market there that's fun to visit.
7
We point out the one and only hot dog stand, Bæjarins Bezu pylsur where you can get the wonderful Icelandic lamb hot dogs. Beware of copycats all around the city center. We could grab a hot dog if the group is hungry.
8
Stop 8
Pass by
We walk together down by the old Reykjavik harbor and soak in the beauty of the coastline and Mount Esja in the far. Down by the harbor we marvel at the beauty of the architecture of Harpa Concert hall.
9
We walk past Arnarhóll (Eagle's hill) where people from the capital area come together for special occasions like celebrating the national holiday of 17th of June.
10
Pass by the offices of the prime minister of Iceland. Talking about the fight for independence.
11
Stop 11
We admire Hallgrímskirkja church and talk about its history and of religion in Iceland in general.
12
We walk down to the beautiful pond or lake in the middle of Reykjavik. Rich with birdlife and a fun visit to feed the birds. During winter the pond freezes over and then it's fun to walk across the pond itself.
13
We admire the architecture of the Reykjavik City hall
14
At the end of our great Reykjavik walking tour, we check out the Icelandic parliament building and talk about things like politics, gender equality and the guardian spirits of Iceland.
Available languages
Guide guide
NO
DE
SV
RU
EN
IT
FR
DA
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
30 reviews
5★
24
4★
5
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.7
54 reviews
5★
47
4★
2
3★
2
2★
1
1★
2
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Outside Hlöllabátar, facing Ingólfstorg Square and the two tall stone pillars. CenterHotel Plaza is to your right. Benches, tables, and a covered ceiling make it a comfortable spot to wait.
Our expert local guides usually wear a light blue jacket with Your Friend in Reykjavik on the back
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
