Reykjavik: Guided Folklore Walking Tour

Reykjavik’s guided folklore walking tour offers a captivating glimpse into the enchanting world of Icelandic mythology. Visitors can explore the city’s historic sites and uncover the hidden tales of elves, trolls, and other mystical creatures that have long captivated the local imagination. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, this immersive 1.5-hour experience promises to transport participants to a realm where the boundaries between reality and folklore blur. Whether you’re a curious traveler or a lover of all things mythical, this tour provides a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the cultural fabric of Iceland.

Key Points

• This 1.5-hour guided walking tour explores the hidden creatures, ghosts, and monsters of Reykjavik’s oldest graveyards and other cultural sites.
• The tour is available in English, Spanish, and French, with a private group option, and features free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
• Visitors can enjoy Icelandic folklore and literature, with the opportunity to appreciate the country’s rich cultural heritage and storytelling traditions.
• The tour has an overall rating of 4.7/5 based on 279 reviews, with visitors praising the knowledgeable guides and the captivating folklore stories.
• The meeting point is at Ingolfstorg Square in the city center, and the tour requires weather-appropriate clothing for the outdoor experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Reykjavik: Guided Folklore Walking Tour offers an immersive 1.5-hour experience, priced from $48.85 per person.

The Reykjavik: Guided Folklore Walking Tour offers an immersive 1.5-hour experience, priced from $48.85 per person.

Available in English, Spanish, and French, the tour is suitable for private groups. Travelers can reserve their spot and pay later. Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are free.

The tour explores Reykjavik’s hidden creatures, including elves, trolls, ghosts, and monsters. Visitors will discover the city’s oldest graveyards, the Catholic Cathedral, and an Elfstone.

This cultural journey provides an opportunity to experience Icelandic magic and storytelling, a key aspect of the country’s heritage.

Tour Highlights and Itinerary

While exploring the highlights of the Reykjavik: Guided Folklore Walking Tour, visitors will discover hidden creatures of Iceland, including elves, trolls, ghosts, and monsters.

The tour includes visits to two of Reykjavik’s oldest graveyards, the Cathedral of Christ the King, and Lake Tjornin. Participants will also see an Elfstone in the city center and experience the magic of Icelandic folklore.

The 1.5-hour itinerary provides a rich culture, with stops at Aðalstræti 7, Kirkjugarðurinn Suðurgötu, the cathedral, and Austurvöllur.

Cultural Significance

Iceland is known as the land of Sagas, where storytelling plays a key cultural aspect. The country boasts a remarkably high literacy rate, with 1 in 10 Icelanders writing a book in their lifetime.

Iceland is the land of Sagas, where storytelling is a key cultural aspect. With 1 in 10 Icelanders writing a book, the country boasts a remarkably high literacy rate.

The Norse mythology and Icelandic Sagas heavily influenced renowned author J.R.R. Tolkien. However, some folklore stories may be considered scary for younger children, prompting the availability of private walks to adjust the content.

This culture allows visitors to:

• Discover the rich heritage of Icelandic folklore

• Appreciate the country’s literary significance

• Understand the connection to Norse mythology

• Tailor the experience for families with children

Customer Reviews and Experiences

Visitors have overwhelmingly praised the Reykjavik: Guided Folklore Walking Tour, evidenced by its impressive 4.7/5 rating based on 279 reviews.

Reviewers felt more connected to Icelandic culture and learned a lot about its history. One guest described the knowledgeable guide who engaged the group with captivating folklore stories and sound effects.

Others highlighted the personal tour experience, where they enjoyed hearing local tales and even spotted the northern lights.

More Great Tours Nearby

Meeting Point and Preparation

The meeting location for the Reykjavik: Guided Folklore Walking Tour is Ingolfstorg Square in the city center.

The guide will be by the 2 stone high seat pillars, ready to lead the tour.

To prepare, visitors should:

• Wear weather-appropriate clothing, as the tour takes place outdoors.

• Check the availability of starting times to ensure the desired schedule.

• Bring a camera to capture the unique sights and stories shared.

• Be ready to enjoy the captivating world of Icelandic folklore.

Mythical Creatures of Iceland

Although Iceland is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, the country is also steeped in a rich tapestry of mythical creatures that have captivated the imagination of its people for generations.

From the mischievous elves, known as the Huldufólk, to the towering trolls and the ghostly Draugr, these legendary beings are deeply woven into the cultural fabric of Iceland.

During the Reykjavik Folklore Walking Tour, visitors have the opportunity to uncover the stories behind these enigmatic creatures and gain a deeper understanding of the country’s rich mythological heritage.

Exploring Reykjavik’s Historic Sites

Reykjavik’s historic sites offer a captivating journey through the city’s storied past. The tour explores:

Reykjavik’s historic sites offer a captivating journey through the city’s storied past. The tour explores.

• The Catholic Cathedral of Christ the King, showcasing its stunning architecture and cultural significance.

• Kirkjugarðurinn Suðurgötu, one of the oldest graveyards in Reykjavik, where visitors can ponder the city’s rich history.

• Lake Tjornin, a tranquil body of water surrounded by historic buildings and landmarks, providing a serene respite.

• Austurvöllur, the iconic central square, where guides share tales of the city’s folklore and Icelandic magic.

Taking in these historic locales, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for Reykjavik’s cultural heritage and the enchanting narratives that have shaped the city.

The Influence of Icelandic Folklore

Icelandic folklore deeply permeates the cultural fabric of Reykjavik, shaping the city’s rich storytelling tradition. Belief in hidden creatures like elves, trolls, and ghosts remain prevalent, influencing art, literature, and daily life.

The country’s high literacy rate fuels a prolific storytelling culture, with one in ten Icelanders writing a book in their lifetime. Even renowned authors like J.R.R. Tolkien were inspired by Icelandic sagas and Norse mythology.

The guided walking tour allows visitors to experience this enchanting folklore firsthand, exploring sites associated with supernatural tales and learning about the nation’s enduring fascination with the mystical.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks on the Tour?

Yes, guests can bring their own snacks on the tour. The tour operator encourages participants to enjoy light snacks and refreshments during the 1.5-hour experience to help keep energy levels up.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

Yes, the tour offers discounts for students and seniors. Specifically, students and seniors can receive a 10% discount on the tour price. To receive the discount, simply provide valid ID at the meeting point.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves moderate walking, with stops at 4 key locations over the 1.5-hour duration. Participants can expect to walk approximately 1 mile at a leisurely pace. The tour route is flat and accessible for most visitors.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not explicitly advertised as wheelchair accessible, as it involves walking through the city streets and historic graveyards. Visitors using wheelchairs may have difficulty navigating the uneven terrain. Accessibility details should be confirmed with the tour operator.

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Participants are generally encouraged to take photographs during the tour, as it allows them to capture the sights and experiences. However, it’s important to be mindful of any restrictions or requests from the guide.

The Sum Up

This captivating 1.5-hour Reykjavik: Guided Folklore Walking Tour immerses visitors in the enchanting world of Icelandic mythology. Knowledgeable guides share rich folklore, offering a deeper connection to the country’s culture. From exploring hidden creatures like elves and trolls to visiting historic sites, this experience provides an immersive look into the mythical roots that have shaped Reykjavik.

You can check availability for your dates here: