Reykjavik: The Icelandic Sweet Tooth Tour

If you’re a fan of sweets—or just curious about Icelandic treats—this Reykjavik Sweet Tooth Tour promises a delicious stroll through the city’s best bakeries, candy shops, and ice cream parlors. With a cozy group size of no more than 12 people, it’s a relaxed way to explore downtown Reykjavik while indulging your sugar cravings. The tour is rated 4.6 out of 5 based on 32 reviews, and it’s priced at $93 per person, which many find to be a fair deal considering the variety of tastings and insider knowledge you gain.

What we love about this experience is its combination of authentic culinary discovery, small-group intimacy, and the chance to learn about Icelandic culture through its sweets. We also appreciate how the guide’s enthusiasm makes each stop more engaging. One downside? Since the treats depend on the season and day, you might find some variation in what’s offered, but the core experience remains sweetly satisfying. This tour suits anyone with a sweet tooth, curious travelers eager to try local flavors, or those simply wanting a fun way to get to know Reykjavik’s culinary side.

Key Points

• Authentic Icelandic Flavors: Enjoy traditional pastries like kleina and local candies such as Thristur.
• Expert Guidance: Guides share interesting insights into Icelandic sweets and culture.
• Variety of Tastes: From chocolates with licorice and wild berries to creamy ice cream flavors.
• Small Group Experience: Max 12 guests, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Flexible and Value-Driven: Book now, pay later, with a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Ideal For: Food lovers, curious travelers, and anyone eager to explore Reykjavik’s sweet side.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Sweet Journey Through Reykjavik

This tour is a delightful way to spend a few hours wandering through downtown Reykjavik, sampling some of the best local sweets and gaining insights into Icelandic culinary traditions. With the backdrop of the city’s charming streets, you’ll enjoy walking from one treat shop to the next, each offering a different specialty. The experience is designed to be both educational and indulgent, making it perfect whether you’re arriving in Iceland or looking for a unique activity during your stay.

Starting Point and Atmosphere

The meeting point outside Hlöllabátar is a cozy, well-placed spot facing Ingólfstorg Square—an ideal starting location that’s easy to find, especially since guides wear light blue jackets with Your Friend in Reykjavik on the back. The spot offers benches and shelter, making it convenient regardless of weather. Expect a warm welcome from your guide, who will set the tone for a fun, relaxed walk through the city’s sweetest corners.

Structure and Duration

Most tours last around 2 to 2.5 hours, giving ample time to taste a variety of Icelandic confections without feeling rushed. The small group size ensures everyone can ask questions and get personalized recommendations. The tour ends back at the starting point, which makes it easy to continue exploring Reykjavik afterward or grab a meal nearby.

What’s on the Menu?

Traditional Icelandic Pastries: The tour kicks off at a local bakery where you’ll sample kleina, a deep-fried doughnut-like treat, and possibly Snúður, Iceland’s unique cinnamon roll. Our guide shared that kleina’s history involves simple ingredients and a long-standing place in Icelandic households, making it a comforting taste of local life.

Chocolates with a Twist: Next, you’ll visit a specialty shop to explore Icelandic chocolates. These chocolates are distinguished by flavors like licorice, birch sugar, and wild berries—ingredients that lend these sweets a distinct Icelandic character. Several reviews appreciate the guide’s knowledge, with one noting, “The guide was phenomenal! Thanks to Stefan! We would do a tour with him again anytime!” Small details like this show how guides bring life to each stop.

Icelandic Ice Cream: The tour includes a visit to a local ice cream parlor, where you can indulge in creamy, flavorful scoops. You might find flavors like licorice or even skyr, Iceland’s famous dairy product, turned into ice cream. The reviews single out the ice cream as among the best they’ve ever had, with one guest remarking it was “delicious and unique,” perfect for hot days or cool evenings.

Sweet Candies and Iconic Bars: The final stop is at a famous candy shop where you can sample candies like Draumur bars or Þristur—a licorice-chocolate combo. If licorice isn’t your thing, don’t worry; there are other options, and many reviewers mention falling in love with this particular combination.

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Guides and Insider Tips

Your guide is the backbone of this tour, making each stop informative and lively. Reviewers commend guides like Ester E and Gudjon for their knowledge, humor, and personable approach. They share stories about how Icelandic treats reflect the country’s history and environment—like how birch sugar is a local ingredient or how licorice is a beloved flavor that’s surprisingly not overpowering.

The guides also provide insider tips about the best places to eat and drink in Reykjavik beyond the tour, making this a useful experience for future explorations. Their enthusiasm ensures you get more than just a tasting; you gain a deeper understanding of Icelandic culinary culture.

Flexibility and Booking

Thanks to the pay later option, you can reserve your spot with confidence, knowing you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility is a plus if your plans change unexpectedly, making it easier to fit into your Iceland itinerary.

Value for Money

At $93, the tour offers a comprehensive tasting experience combined with expert guidance, which many guests find to be a great value. Considering the high quality of the treats and the personalized attention, it’s an accessible way to sample a wide range of Icelandic sweets in just a couple of hours. For those who love trying local foods and learning about their origins, this tour is a worthwhile investment.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Weather-appropriate clothing is essential, especially since you’ll be walking outside between stops regardless of the season.
• Arriving a few minutes early ensures you meet your guide without stress.
• The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for international visitors.
• If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, check with the provider beforehand—though the tour offers a variety of options.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food lovers, especially those interested in Icelandic flavors. It’s also perfect for couples, small groups, or families wanting a relaxed, interactive activity. If you’re curious about local culture and enjoy sweets, you’ll find plenty to love here. However, it may not suit travelers seeking a more adventurous or physically active excursion—this is primarily a tasting and cultural exploration.

The Sum Up

Reykjavik: The Icelandic Sweet Tooth Tour offers a charming, tasty peek into Iceland’s confectionery world. With knowledgeable guides, a diverse array of local sweets, and a small-group setting, it’s a delightful way to spend part of your Iceland trip. Whether you’re a dedicated sweet tooth or just seeking a fun, authentic cultural experience, this tour delivers flavor, fun, and fascinating stories in equal measure.

Best suited for those who want a relaxed, flavorful introduction to Reykjavik’s culinary scene, it’s an experience that combines education, indulgence, and local charm. The high reviews and positive feedback speak to its quality—and with flexible booking options, it’s easy to add this treat to your Iceland itinerary.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
Most tours last around 2 to 2.5 hours, providing enough time to enjoy multiple tastings without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start?
It begins outside Hlöllabátar, facing Ingólfstorg Square, a convenient and recognizable spot in downtown Reykjavik.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the small group size and focus on sweets suggest it’s family-friendly, especially for kids who enjoy treats. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, as you’ll be walking outdoors between stops.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your trip planning.

What kind of treats will I sample?
Expect Icelandic pastries like kleina and snúður, local chocolates flavored with licorice and berries, and ice cream with unique Icelandic flavors.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, it’s a walking tour within downtown Reykjavik; comfortable shoes are advisable.

Embark on this sweet journey and uncover the flavors that make Icelandic desserts so special. Whether you’re a pastry lover or just eager to taste local favorites, this tour promises memorable bites and stories galore.

You can check availability for your dates here: