During Christmas, Reykjavik transforms into a winter wonderland that perfectly captures authentic Icelandic holiday traditions. The city’s Christmas Walking Tour stands out as a smart choice, combining local storytelling with seasonal treats as you explore festively lit streets. Food lovers won’t want to miss sampling traditional delicacies like smoked lamb and the crispy leaf bread (laufabrauð) on the Christmas Food Tour. For a truly memorable experience, the Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Northern Lights tours offer spectacular opportunities to view the aurora while celebrating the holiday. Let’s explore these top-rated Christmas experiences in detail.
Key Points
- Immersive walking tour exploring Reykjavik’s festive streets, Icelandic Christmas traditions, and folklore stories about 13 Santas and Troll Grýla.
- Food tour highlighting Icelandic holiday specialties like smoked lamb and laufabrauð, along with traditional festive drinks like jólaöl and jólaglögg.
- Christmas Eve Northern Lights tour offering stargazing and Aurora Borealis experience outside Reykjavik, with warm beverages, blankets, and self-service snacks.
- Christmas Day Northern Lights tour providing a 5-hour experience to witness the Northern Lights, with warm blankets, hot drinks, and a photography service.
- Variety of tours catering to different interests, from festive food to outdoor adventures, showcasing Icelandic culture and traditions during the Christmas season.
Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour
On the Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour, visitors can enjoy the festive spirit of the Icelandic capital. The 4.9-rated tour takes guests on a journey through Reykjavik’s decorated streets, where they’ll discover Icelandic Christmas traditions and hear captivating folklore stories about the 13 Santas, Troll Grýla, and the Christmas Cat.
The family-friendly experience includes tastings of traditional Christmas food and drinks, allowing participants to savor the flavors of an Icelandic holiday. Highlights include seeing the Blue Christmas tree, the Oslo Christmas tree, and exploring Christmas books.
The tour starts at the Center Hotels Plaza and ends at the iconic Hallgrimskirkja, providing easy access to public transportation.
With wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as the option to bring service animals, the Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour caters to a wide range of visitors. Guests can enjoy the festive atmosphere and cultural traditions of Iceland, making it an ideal way to experience the magic of Christmas in Reykjavik.
Read our full review: Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour Review
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The Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour
For those looking to immerse themselves deeper in Reykjavik’s festive traditions, the Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour provides an unparalleled culinary experience.
Priced from $125.88 per person, this 3-hour tour takes guests on a flavorful journey through the city’s most cherished holiday specialties.
Explore the Little Christmas Store on Laugavegur and sample delicacies like smoked lamb, laufabrauð, glazed Hamborgarhrygg, reindeer paté, gravlax, and pickled herring.
Wash it all down with festive drinks like jólaöl, malt & appelsín, and jólaglögg or hot cocoa.
Along the way, engage in discussions about the history and cultural significance of each dish, while soaking up Reykjavik’s enchanting Christmas atmosphere.
The tour is led by local guides and is likely to sell out, so booking in advance is recommended.
Dietary accommodations are available, and you will receive a locally inspired gift to cherish their memories.
Read our full review: The Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour Review
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From Reykjavik: Christmas Eve Northern Lights Tour
A popular option for those seeking a magical Christmas Eve experience in Reykjavik is the Christmas Eve Northern Lights Tour. This 5-hour activity allows visitors to go stargazing and hunt for the elusive Northern Lights outside the city limits.
The tour, which has a group size of 30-40 people, is conducted in English and includes pickup from select downtown locations and hotels.
During the tour, guests can enjoy hot beverages, blankets, and self-service snacks. The guide will also set up for group photos, which are emailed within 7 days if the aurora is visible.
The tour is weather-dependent, with decisions made by 5 PM daily. Warm clothing is essential, and infant seats are available for children 6 and under.
While pickup may take 45 minutes to 1 hour, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.
Read our full review: From Reykjavik: Christmas Eve Northern Lights Tour Review
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From Reykjavik: Christmas Day Northern Lights Tour
The Christmas Day Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the mesmerizing display of the Aurora Borealis on the most festive day of the year.
This 5-hour tour, priced from $182 per person, takes groups of up to 30-40 people on a journey to hunt for the Northern Lights and stargaze. Guests can enjoy warm blankets, hot beverages, and cookies during the tour, which is led by a live English-speaking guide.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, with pickups taking 45 minutes to an hour. Warm clothing is recommended, and infant seats are available at no extra cost.
While the tour is dependent on weather conditions, decisions are made daily by 5 PM. Participants can take advantage of the included photography service, with photos emailed within 7 days if the lights are visible.
Booking is flexible, with a reserve now and pay later option available.
Read our full review: From Reykjavik: Christmas Day Northern Lights Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time to Visit the Reykjavik Christmas Markets?
The best time to visit Reykjavik’s Christmas markets is typically from late November through late December. They’re generally open on weekends and offer a festive atmosphere with local crafts, warm drinks, and traditional Icelandic holiday treats.
Do the Northern Lights Tours Offer Any Additional Activities?
Northern lights tours in Reykjavik often include additional activities like stargazing, bonfires, and hot chocolate tasting. Travelers can expect a unique and immersive experience beyond just seeing the Aurora Borealis on these tours.
Are There Any Discounts Available for the Christmas Food Tour?
Many Christmas food tours in Reykjavik offer discounted prices, especially for bookings made in advance. Travelers should check with tour operators directly to inquire about any special deals or holiday pricing.
Is It Possible to Combine the Christmas Walking Tour and Food Tour?
Yes, it’s possible to combine the Christmas walking tour and food tour. Many tour operators offer package deals that allow visitors to experience both the festive sights and local cuisine in a single excursion, often at a discounted rate.
How Do I Dress for the Northern Lights Tours During Christmas?
When dressing for a northern lights tour during Christmas in Reykjavik, it’s best to wear warm, waterproof layers that can be easily adjusted. Thermal underwear, a warm coat, gloves, and hat are essential to stay comfortable in the chilly winter weather.
The Sum Up
Reykjavik’s Christmas experiences offer a unique blend of tradition, cuisine, and natural wonder. The walking tour showcases the city’s charming holiday decor, while the food tour tantalizes taste buds with local delicacies. For a truly magical moment, the Northern Lights tours provide the chance to witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis. Whether strolling through the festive streets or chasing the northern lights, Reykjavik delivers an unforgettable Christmas escape.