The statue of the Icelandic Christmas cat
Christmas Walking Tour through the christmas lit streets of Reykjavik
Guests visiting the little Christmas store in Reykjavik
The festively lit streets of downtown Reykjavik in the winter
Christmas market stalls in downtown Reykjavik
Travellers inside a store talking to the employee
The Oslo Christmas Tree by Austurvollur
The ferocious Christmas Cat
The Trolls Grýla and Leppalúði, the parents of the 13 Icelandic Yulelads
The Blue Christmas Tree at our starting point
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Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour

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Reykjavík, Iceland
Walking ToursCity ToursCultural ToursCity BreaksFood & Drink Tours
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About this activity

Explore Reykjavik's festive heart on a 2-hour guided walk through Christmas markets, holiday lights, and iconic landmarks while discovering Iceland's unique yuletide folklore—including the 13 Yule Lads, their mother Grýla, and the legendary Christmas Cat. Sample traditional Icelandic holiday treats and learn why Christmas book-gifting is a cherished national tradition.

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.




This tour is only operated in December and is also available as a private tour.

Highlights

  • ✓Ingólfur Square ice rink, Christmas market, and holiday decorations
  • ✓Meet the 13 Icelandic Yule Lads (Jólasveinar) through stories and folklore
  • ✓Visit the Oslo Christmas Tree at Austurvollur Square
  • ✓Browse unique Icelandic Christmas books and gifts on Laugavegur shopping street
  • ✓Climb to Hallgrímskirkja church with panoramic city views
  • ✓Taste traditional Icelandic Christmas food and drinks en route

Insider tips

  • ★Book in early December to secure spots; tours fill quickly during peak Christmas season
  • ★Wear waterproof layers and insulated boots—Reykjavik's streets are icy and weather changes rapidly in winter
  • ★Your guide is a local (Your Friend in Reykjavik); ask about lesser-known yuletide traditions not found in guidebooks

Good to know

  • •Meets at Fógetagarðurinn; plan to arrive 10 minutes early
  • •Family-friendly and suitable for ages 5+; folklore includes mildly spooky tales (Grýla) that may affect very young children
  • •Walking is on city streets with some slopes (Skólavörðustígur ascent); sturdy footwear essential
  • •Tastings of Icelandic seasonal foods included; notify guide of dietary restrictions in advance

Who it's for

Families with children wanting immersive cultural storytellingChristmas enthusiasts keen on Nordic folklore and unique holiday traditionsFoodies interested in sampling authentic Icelandic seasonal cuisineCultural travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path festive experiences

Best time to visit

Late November through December, ideally mid-to-late afternoon (3–5 PM) when darkness falls and festive lights illuminate the city. Tours run throughout the season; book early as December dates sell out quickly.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€63
per person