What makes the Icelandic Christmas different from other countries?

Iceland has its own unique Christmas mythology featuring 13 Yulelads (mischievous Santa-like figures), their mother Grýla (a troll who eats naughty children), and the Christmas Cat. Icelanders also have a beloved tradition of giving books as gifts on Christmas Eve. This tour brings these folklore elements to life through storytelling as you walk.

Is food and drink tasting included?

Yes, the tour includes tastings of traditional Icelandic Christmas food and drinks as you walk through the city. Inform the guide of any dietary restrictions beforehand so they can accommodate you.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Absolutely. The tour is family-friendly and designed to engage children with exciting folklore stories about the Yulelads and other Icelandic Christmas characters. It's an educational and entertaining way for kids to learn about local traditions.

What's included in the 2-hour itinerary?

The tour covers Ingólfur Square's ice-skating rink and Christmas market, the Oslo Christmas Tree at Austurvollur, a bookstore visit, Laugavegur shopping street, a Christmas shop, Icelandic food tastings, and ends at Hallgrímskirkja church. Throughout, your guide shares stories about the 13 Yulelads and other folklore.

Do I need to book in advance, and is this a private tour?

Yes, this is a private tour, so you can book directly with Your Friend in Reykjavik. Booking in advance is recommended, especially in early December when demand is high. Private tours allow for a personalized pace and the flexibility to ask questions about Icelandic Christmas customs.

What should I wear, and how cold is it in December?

December in Reykjavik is cold (typically between –1°C and 4°C / 30–39°F) and often windy or rainy. Wear warm, waterproof layers, insulated gloves, a hat, and sturdy walking boots. Proper clothing is essential for comfort on this 2-hour outdoor walk.

A picture of the Icelandic Christmas Cat in downtown Reykjavik.

Travellers purchasing Icelandic Christmas specialities in a store

A picture of the Christmas Market in downtown Reykjavik

The Yulelads or Santa's of Iceland strolling downtown Reykjavik

The Rainbow Street in downtown Reykjavik during Christmas Time

Travellers visiting the Little Christmas Store in downtown Reykjavik

The main shopping street, Laugavegur, during Christmas time

A guide from Your Friend in Reykjavik explaining Christmas items to travellers

Travellers posing for a picture in front of the Icelandic Christmas Cat

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Private Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour

(5)

Reykjavík, Iceland

Walking ToursCity ToursCultural ToursCity BreaksFood & Drink Tours

About this activity

Explore Reykjavik's festive heart on a 2-hour private walking tour that weaves Icelandic Christmas folklore—the 13 Yulelads, their mother Grýla, and the legendary Christmas Cat—into a journey through illuminated streets, holiday markets, and seasonal traditions. Sample authentic Icelandic Christmas food and drinks while discovering why books and winter magic hold such a special place in Icelandic culture.

This Christmas, join Your Friend in Reykjavik for a walking tour through the Christmas lit and festive streets of Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland.

Together we will explore the Icelandic Christmas traditions and discover the 13 Santas of Iceland, their mother, the Troll Grýla that eats naughty children, and finally, the ferocious Christmas Cat.

This family-friendly tour brings Icelandic Christmas traditions brought to life with exciting stories and Icelandic folklore. We will also come to know the delicious food and drinks that Iceland considers Christmassy and maybe sample some on our walk. Our meeting point is in Fógetagarðurinn for this Christmas Walking Tour through downtown Reykjavik.

First, we admire the Ice skating rink, holiday decorations, and Christmas market stalls at Ingólfur Square. Then we move on to take a look at the famous Oslo Christmas Tree at Austurvollur. While we walk, we will try to find some of the unique Icelandic Yulelads or Santa Clauses hiding around the Reykjavik city center.

We make a short visit to a book store to see unique Icelandic Christmas books and discover the love Icelanders have for books, especially during Christmas time. Then it's up to the main shopping street of Reykjavik called Laugavegur, and there we check out the one and only little Christmas store. You can be sure we have some fun surprises along the way.

Finally, we walk up the beautiful Skólavörðustígur towards the majestic Hallgrímskirkja church, where we end our wonderful walk together, taking a peek at select stores along the way for Christmas related things. As a bonus to our Christmas Walking Tour, you will get discounts at a couple of Christmas stores, stalls, and even restaurants to make it even more worthwhile to join us.

Hot cocoa and a pastry are included in the private Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour.

This tour is only operated in December.

Highlights

✓Meet the 13 Yulelads (Icelandic Santas) through storytelling and spotting around the city centre
✓Visit Ingólfur Square's ice-skating rink and Christmas market stalls
✓See the famous Oslo Christmas Tree at Austurvollur and browse unique Icelandic Christmas books
✓Explore Laugavegur, Reykjavik's main shopping street, and a dedicated Christmas shop
✓End at the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church with panoramic city views
✓Taste traditional Icelandic Christmas food and drinks along the route

Insider tips

★Icelanders gift books every Christmas Eve; the bookstore stop reveals this cherished cultural tradition firsthand
★The tour guides are locals ('Your Friend in Reykjavik'), so ask about lesser-known folklore details and family Christmas customs
★Visit early in December for the most vibrant market atmosphere; late December can be busy with tourists

Good to know

•Meet at Fógetagarðurinn in downtown Reykjavik; allow extra time if unfamiliar with the location
•Dress warmly for December weather (often freezing); waterproof layers recommended
•The tour is family-friendly and suitable for children interested in folklore and festive traditions
•Food tastings are included; inform guide of dietary restrictions in advance if needed

Who it's for

Families with children curious about Icelandic folklore and Christmas traditionsCultural travelers interested in Nordic/Viking heritage and seasonal customsFood enthusiasts wanting to taste authentic Icelandic Christmas fareFirst-time visitors seeking a curated, intimate introduction to Reykjavik's festive character

Best time to visit

December is essential—the tour showcases Reykjavik's Christmas markets, ice-skating rink, and seasonal decorations in full effect. Early-to-mid December offers better availability and less crowding than the final week before Christmas.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(5)

Claire R.

Apr 2026

So nice this one, a tiny courtyard tucked off the main drag was amazing and Kemal the guide explain everything good. Better than Cancun for sure, we go again!

Tara H.

Jan 2026

our guide Samir really knew their stuff and an old bakery we stopped at for a snack was the highlight. Used it for our summer trip so it wasnt too busy. Miles ahead of a similar walking tour we tried in rome, and fine even with my dodgy knee, and 10+ little stops. Would book again no question.

Ruth E.

Oct 2025

our guide Priya was brilliant and an old bakery we stopped at for a snack was the highlight, and spot on for a couples day out, and 10+ little stops.

Hugo F.

Sep 2025

Noa our guide very good, and a viewpoint locals use we love it. Is much better than the walking tour we do in Crete before. We are very happy, recommend to all!

Ines A.

Jan 2025

kemal our guide was class, perfect for first-timers, and covered about 5km on foot

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