Guests receiving an explanation about elf stones in Iceland
A guide from Your Friend in Reykjavik sharing a story about Reykjavik´s history
Our expert guide telling stories about the Icelandic trolls
Our fun-loving Guide joining guests for a picture together
A group of guests actively listening to the guide telling a story
A private Folklore tour at Hólavallakirkjugarður cemetary
Guests reading the plague telling the story behind the tree in the picture.
A Private Reykjavik Folklore Tour in front of the monument to Jon Sigurdsson, leader of the Icelandic independent movement
A guide from Your Friend in Reykjavik is sharing the story behind the people buried in the grave on the picture.
The bell tower of Hólavallakirkjugarður cemetary
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Private Reykjavik Folklore Walking Tour

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Reykjavík, Iceland
Walking ToursShows & MusicalsSightseeing ToursEducational Tour
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About this activity

Explore Reykjavik's rich mythological heritage on a private 90-minute walking tour led by a local storyteller. Discover Icelandic folklore—from elves and trolls to the 13 Yule Lads and their child-eating mother Grýla—while uncovering the cultural roots that inspired Tolkien's Middle-earth.

Your Private Icelandic Folklore Walk - where you choose the starting time for our walk

Iceland is sometimes called the land of the Sagas and on this walk, you get the chance to hear many interesting sagas involving the hidden people and creatures of Iceland

We will tell you all about the Icelandic Elves, Trolls, Ghosts like the Deacon of the dark river, the unique mostly aquatic monsters, the 13 Santa's (it's not enough to have just one Santa Claus in Iceland after all ;))

their mother the child-eating troll called Grýla and finally the only known serial killer of Iceland in a land where it's easy to get lost in the lava fields...

You will also get an introduction into Icelandic magic and the runes of old


In the long winter nights in Iceland storytelling has been the primary entertainment for people so there are reasons why Icelanders love books and have the highest literacy rate in the world. 1 in 10 Icelanders writes a book in his life so we obviously love to tell stories and you sure won't be disappointed by joining our walk and hearing a couple.



J.R.R. Tolkien

was heavily influenced by Norse mythology and the Icelandic Sagas when he wrote The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit

so we will explain some of the fun similarities between our Icelandic Mythology and J.R.R.S Middle Earth.


It's perfect for those who want a little adventure in their life because the story's come alive on our walk. 

For families, please keep in mind that some of the stories can be scary to little children so it's also possible to contact us regarding

a private walk where we can dial the scariness down a notch ;).  

Highlights

  • Hear authentic Icelandic sagas and folklore tales told by a local guide
  • Learn about hidden people (elves), trolls, ghosts, and unique Icelandic creatures
  • Explore connections between Icelandic mythology and Tolkien's Lord of the Rings
  • Discover Iceland's magical runes and ancient storytelling traditions
  • Flexible start times to suit your schedule

Insider tips

  • Winter nights are ideal for folklore immersion—Icelanders traditionally used storytelling as winter entertainment, and the dark season amplifies the atmosphere.
  • Ask your guide about specific locations linked to local legends; Reykjavik's geography is woven into these stories.
  • Note this is a private tour, so you can request deeper dives into particular mythological themes or family-friendly content adjustments.

Good to know

  • Duration is 1 hour 30 minutes of walking through Reykjavik streets; wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
  • Private tour accommodates flexible start times—book your preferred departure.
  • Some folklore content involves darker themes (serial killers, child-eating trolls); families should confirm suitability with the supplier before booking.

Who it's for

Mythology and fantasy enthusiasts (especially Tolkien fans)Families seeking cultural education (confirm content suitability with supplier)History and literature buffs interested in Norse and Icelandic heritageTravellers wanting insider local knowledge beyond standard sightseeing

Best time to visit

Winter months (November–February) best capture the storytelling spirit and atmospheric darkness central to Icelandic folklore tradition. Autumn and spring also offer good conditions for walking.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€277
per person