Reykjavik offers a surprisingly lively and diverse culinary scene, especially considering its remote Nordic location. The city’s food culture blends traditional Icelandic flavors with innovative modern touches, making it a fantastic place for food lovers to explore. Whether it’s sampling fermented shark, exploring local markets, or enjoying a craft beer at a microbrewery, Reykjavik’s food tours provide a perfect way to taste the city’s authentic flavors while learning about Icelandic culture. Our favorite is the Reykjavik Food and Drink Adventure – Local Evening Experience, which immerses you in the local scene through a lively, well-paced walk past landmarks and top eateries, with all drinks and bites included.
Many visitors find that these tours are a wonderful way to navigate Reykjavik’s food scene without the hassle of figuring it all out alone. From small-group evening outings to full-day adventures that combine sightseeing with tasting, there’s something for every type of traveler. For those wanting a taste of Icelandic dishes in different settings, the variety is impressive, and the reviews show a high level of satisfaction across the board.
1. Reykjavik Food and Drink Adventure – Local Evening Experience
At number 1, the Reykjavik Food and Drink Adventure – Local Evening Experience scores a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from nearly 200 reviews. This tour is a cozy, three-and-a-half-hour tour that takes you through Reykjavik’s vibrant dining scene, with all drinks and bites included—an excellent value for an immersive night out. The tour kicks off at Skrúfuhringur and ends in the city center, making it easy to continue exploring afterward.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on local favorites. You’ll stroll past historic fisherman huts, the iconic Lutheran Church, and the colorful rainbow street while sampling hearty Icelandic dishes, craft beers, and unique spirits. The guide will take you past landmarks like Arnarhóll and the old town square, weaving in stories of Reykjavik’s history and culture. Most guests praise the lively atmosphere, the variety of food—from lobster tacos to local delicacies—and the chance to meet travelers from around the world. One reviewer summed it up as “highly recommended,” emphasizing the engaging guide and the authentic experience.
Bottom Line: If you want an engaging, small-group evening tour with a wide range of local drinks and dishes, this tour offers great value and a chance to see Reykjavik’s sights in a relaxed, fun setting.
2. Reykjavíkur: Golden Circle & Food Tasting with Secret Lagoon
Number 2 on our list is the Golden Circle & Food Tasting with Secret Lagoon, a full-day adventure perfect for those wanting a blend of scenic beauty and culinary treats. This tour covers the classic Golden Circle sights—Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss—plus a relaxing dip in the geothermal Secret Lagoon, and a visit to Friðheimar Tomato Farm.
The highlight is the food tasting inside a historic cave home, where you can try fermented shark, flatkökur (traditional flatbread), and brennivín, Iceland’s local spirit. The tour provides a well-rounded experience: learning about Icelandic history at Þingvellir, witnessing the geyser’s eruption, and marveling at Gullfoss’ power. The Secret Lagoon offers a peaceful soak, and the visit to Friðheimar adds a local farm flavor. Guests mention the tour’s affordability considering the volume of sites visited, and many appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the chance to taste Icelandic foods in an authentic setting.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for travelers with a full day to explore Iceland’s natural wonders and enjoy an unusual food experience inside a historic cave, all while soaking in geothermal waters.
3. Reykjavik Food Tour – Supermarket Tour & Lunch at Microbrewery
Number 3 offers a more relaxed, educational experience that starts with a supermarket tour on Reykjavik’s main shopping street, Laugavegur. The tour then moves to a private microbrewery where you enjoy a specially reserved lunch alongside local craft beers, making it a perfect introduction for those interested in Iceland’s everyday food culture.
Guests learn what Icelanders typically buy at grocery stores, about the local produce, and how traditional ingredients are used. The microbrewery lunch allows for tasting various Icelandic dishes, with complimentary craft beer samples to enhance the experience. Reviewers appreciate the intimate setting and the chance to learn about Icelandic food at a local store, rather than just eating at tourist spots. One reviewer called it “a great travel experience,” highlighting how it demystifies Icelandic cuisine and makes it accessible.
Bottom Line: For travelers who want a blend of shopping, learning, and tasting in a cozy setting, this tour offers an authentic look into Icelandic everyday food and drink.
4. Reykjavik: All in One – Eat, Drink & Explore with Locals
Number 4, Reykjavik: All in One – Eat, Drink & Explore, balances sightseeing with culinary sampling across 3.5 hours. Starting at Hallgrímskirkja, the tour stops at local bars, bakeries, and restaurants, tasting Icelandic street food and local beers.
What sets this tour apart is its combination of food, drinks, and city landmarks. The guide shares insights while you visit historic sites like Arnarhóll and pass through the streets that tell Reykjavik’s story. Guests rave about the variety, from local street food to craft beers, and the personalized experience. One reviewer noted that their guide’s local relationships meant the food and drink were top-notch. The tour is well-suited for those who want a comprehensive, relaxed introduction that includes both cultural and culinary highlights.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those wanting to combine walking sightseeing with diverse tastings, all in a fun, small-group environment.
5. Reykjavik: Private Food and Beer Tour with a Local Guide
At number 5, the Private Food and Beer Tour offers a customized experience tailored to your interests. This private walk takes you past Reykjavik’s landmarks and hidden gems over 3.5 hours, with ample time to savor Icelandic delicacies and local beers.
The tour covers a variety of stops, including street food, local restaurants, and beer tastings, with an emphasis on insider insights. Guests value the flexibility and the personal attention, with reviews highlighting the guide’s local knowledge and the opportunity to explore both well-known and lesser-known spots. Although prices are not specified, the personalized nature makes it a good value for those looking for a tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups wanting a customized, in-depth culinary walk with local tips and private guidance.
6. Reykjavik Street Food Walking Tour
Rounding out the list at number 6 is the Street Food Walking Tour, a three-hour journey through Reykjavik’s streets, tasting both traditional and modern Icelandic dishes. Highlights include sampling top fish dishes and trying the famous rye-bread ice cream, a signature treat.
This tour is ideal for those who want a quick, yet flavorful and informative, taste of Reykjavik’s street food scene. The guide also takes you past Hallgrímskirkja, giving a bit of city history along the way. Reviewers love the variety of food, especially the opportunity to try Iceland’s bold flavors like fermented shark. The relaxed pace makes it suitable for most mobility levels, and the focus on local cuisine makes it perfect for foodies.
Bottom Line: For a concise, tasty introduction to Reykjavik’s street food scene with a side of city sights, this tour hits the mark.
How to Choose the Best Food Tour in Reykjavik
When deciding between these tours, consider your schedule, budget, and interests. For a lively evening with drinks and local landmarks, Reykjavik Food and Drink Adventure offers a fun, social experience. If natural scenery paired with unique Icelandic foods sounds best, the Golden Circle & Food Tasting is a full-day adventure perfect for sightseers. For a more educational, light-hearted approach, the Supermarket and Microbrewery Tour offers insight into everyday Icelandic eating habits.
Those seeking a private, tailored experience may prefer the Private Food and Beer Tour, ideal for couples or small groups. For a quick taste of Reykjavik’s street food, the Street Food Walking Tour provides a flavorful, compact experience. Remember to book early, especially in peak seasons, and choose a tour that matches your curiosity level and time constraints.
In summary, Reykjavik’s food tours range from lively evenings with drinks and sights to scenic day trips with tastings inside historic caves. Each offers a different slice of Icelandic life—whether you’re after a relaxed taste of local flavors or a full-day exploration blending natural wonders with culinary surprises. For most visitors, a combination of these experiences will give an authentic taste of Reykjavik and its vibrant food scene. Pick the one that fits your style, book early, and prepare to enjoy Icelandic cuisine at its best.