Reykjavik is a city that invites exploration on foot. Its compact size makes it ideal for walking tours, allowing you to soak in its colorful streets, iconic landmarks, and local stories at a relaxed pace. What really sets Reykjavik apart is how accessible and rich with character its neighborhoods are—whether you’re admiring the stunning architecture of Harpa Concert Hall or listening to tales of elves and trolls, every step feels meaningful. We especially like the Sightseeing Walking Tour with a Viking for its lively mix of city sights and storytelling, and the Midnight Sun Ghost Walk for a unique experience after sunset when the city takes on an eerie glow.
If you’re curious about the city’s spirit and history, Reykjavik offers a variety of themed walks that go beyond just the sights. From folklore and Viking lore to stories of Icelandic women and LGBTQ+ culture, there’s something for nearly every interest. The guided options, especially those with personalized touches or special focuses, make your visit more immersive and memorable. Now, let’s take a closer look at the best walking tours in Reykjavik.
1. Reykjavik: Sightseeing Walking Tour with a Viking
At number 1, this 2-hour sightseeing walk offers a lively introduction to Reykjavik. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to hit the highlights and get a feel for the city’s vibe. Your guide leads you through the old city center, stopping at landmarks like the Harpa Concert Hall, with its striking glass facade, and the Reykjavik Pond where birdlife is abundant. Along the way, your guide shares tips on where to eat and drink, helping you plan the rest of your visit.
What makes this tour stand out is its friendly, engaging style—you walk with an old friend who’s eager to share local insights. The itinerary includes Ingólfs Square, Austurvöllur, and Hallgrimskirkja, all under 20 minutes each, making it a manageable pace. Guests praise the tour for its informative nature and fun atmosphere, with a typical rating of 4.7/5 from 400 reviews and a price of just $53 per person.
Bottom Line: This is a solid choice for travelers who want a quick but comprehensive taste of Reykjavik’s key sights and local flavor. It’s especially good if you’re new to the city or arriving early in your trip.
2. Reykjavik: Guided Folklore Walking Tour
Number 2 on our list explores the mysterious side of Reykjavik with a 1.5-hour folklore walk. For those fascinated by Icelandic legends, this tour dives into stories about elves, trolls, ghosts, and magic that weave through the city’s streets. Starting at Hlöllabátar, the tour visits two of Reykjavik’s oldest graveyards and the Catholic Cathedral, offering a glimpse into the city’s spiritual history.
What’s special here is the storytelling—your guide recounts tales of Icelandic magic and mythology, making history come alive. Highlights include the Elfstone in the city center and stories about the country’s mythical creatures. Guests love the tour’s lively narrative style, rating it 4.7/5 from 309 reviews, and it costs $53 per person for an engaging experience.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for anyone interested in Iceland’s legends and folklore, adding a mystical layer to your city walk. It’s ideal for night owls or those with a curious mind.
3. Reykjavik: Private Icelandic Viking Age Walking Tour
Number 3 is a 3-hour private tour focusing on the Viking roots of Icelandic culture. For around $178, you get a personalized experience exploring the Settlement Museum and seeing statues of Viking warriors around the city. The tour delves into the seafaring history and Norse mythology that still influence Iceland today.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on private, tailored storytelling—your guide shares detailed insights about the first Viking settlers and their legacy. The highlight is the visit to the Settlement Museum, where you see the first viking house in Reykjavik, and the walk through the city’s Norse-themed statues. The private setting means you can ask all your Viking questions.
Bottom Line: This is best suited for history buffs wanting an in-depth Viking experience with personalized attention. The $178 price reflects its exclusivity and rich content, offering excellent value for a dedicated exploration.
4. Reykjavik Midnight Sun Ghost Walk
Number 4 takes you into the spooky side of Reykjavik with a 1.5-hour ghost walk, available under the midnight sun. Walking under the reflective glow of Iceland’s summer nights, you’ll hear chilling stories of ghosts, trolls, and supernatural encounters that haunt the city’s past. Starting at Ingólfs Square, this tour is a perfect evening activity for those who want a different perspective on the city.
What makes it special is the atmospheric setting—walking during the Midnight Sun creates an eerie yet magical backdrop. The tour is highly rated, with 2 reviews giving it 5/5, and the reviews mention the personalized storytelling by guide Stefani and her engaging way of sharing Icelandic folklore. The price varies by availability.
Bottom Line: Ideal for night owls and lovers of ghost stories, this tour offers a hauntingly beautiful way to see Reykjavik after dark, especially during Iceland’s long summer nights.
5. Reykjavik: The Icelandic Woman Private Walking Tour
Number 5 spotlights Icelandic women’s influence through a 3-hour private walk. Priced at $162, it explores landmarks like the Parliament Building, Reykjavik City Hall, and the Pearl Necklace, all while telling stories of the women who helped shape Iceland’s society.
What’s compelling here is the tour’s focus on female pioneers and cultural icons. It’s an excellent choice for travelers interested in gender and social history, with a personal touch that makes the stories resonate. The guide shares insights into key sights and their significance, providing a meaningful context.
Bottom Line: This tour appeals to those interested in social change and powerful women’s stories, making it an educational and inspiring walk.
6. Reykjavik: Private LGBTQ+ Walking Tour with a Local Guide
Number 6 offers a 3-hour private walk exploring Reykjavik’s LGBTQ+ scene. For $164, this customized tour covers key attractions like Harpa Concert Hall, Laugavegur, and Sun Voyager, with insights into the city’s progressive culture.
The guide shares stories about Reykjavik’s LGBTQ history and current scene, making it especially valuable for travelers interested in social acceptance and local issues. The tour’s intimate setting allows for personalized questions and in-depth discussion.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a socially conscious, tailored experience, this tour offers an authentic look at Reykjavik’s open-minded atmosphere.
7. Reykjavik: Private Day Tour South Coast with Glacier Walk
Number 7 is a full-day private expedition combining sightseeing along the South Coast with a guided glacier walk. For around $N/A (check availability), this 10-hour tour takes you from Reykjavik to stunning locations like Solheimajokull Glacier, Dyrholaey, Vik, and Skogafoss.
The highlight is the glacier walk, which offers an up-close view of Iceland’s icy landscapes. The tour also visits waterfalls, black sand beaches, and scenic viewpoints, providing a comprehensive experience of Iceland’s natural beauty. It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with walking and outdoor adventures.
Bottom Line: If you want a full day of spectacular sights and an unforgettable glacier experience, this tour is a superb choice—perfect for outdoor lovers and those with flexible schedules.
8. Reykjavik: City Walk Tours With Photography Services
Number 8 combines sightseeing with professional photos in a 3-hour private photography tour. Priced at an unspecified rate, it’s designed for travelers who want to explore Reykjavik while capturing their trip with expert help.
Starting at the iconic Hallgrimskirkja, the tour stops at vibrant locations like Rainbow Street, Harpa, and Lake Tjornin, with photos taken at each. The flexible pace allows for a personalized experience, and the small group size ensures individual attention. It’s ideal for those wanting memorable keepsakes.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want beautiful photos and a personalized exploration experience, making it great for couples or families wanting professional images.
9. Reykjavik: Street Food Walking Tour
Number 9 is a 3-hour food tour that takes you through Reykjavik’s culinary scene. For a true taste of Iceland, this tour offers local and modern dishes, highlighting specialties like fresh fish and rye-bread ice cream, and includes a stop at the Hallgrímskirkja.
What sets this apart is the focus on gastronomy paired with cultural insights. As one reviewer put it, “the perfect blend of food and history,” making it ideal for food lovers and curious travelers alike. The guide shares stories about Icelandic cuisine, making each bite memorable.
Bottom Line: If you’re eager to sample Reykjavik’s best eats and learn about local food traditions, this tour offers delicious insights in a convivial setting.
10. Reykjavik: Maritime History Walking Tour
Finally, the Maritime History Tour explores Reykjavik’s seafaring and fishing heritage over 3 hours. With a cost of $198 per person, it visits landmarks like the Harpa Concert Hall and Midbakk harbor, and concludes at the Reykjavik Maritime Museum, which includes entry.
This tour offers a detailed look at the city’s connection to the sea—fishermen’s stories, historic fishing sheds, and scenic harbor views. It’s suited for those interested in Iceland’s maritime economy and stories of daring fishermen.
Bottom Line: This comprehensive walk is ideal for history and maritime enthusiasts wanting a thorough look at Reykjavik’s waterfront legacy.
How to Choose
When selecting a walking tour in Reykjavik, consider your interests and schedule. If you’re interested in Viking history, the Private Viking Tour offers a detailed, immersive experience. For those drawn to Icelandic legends, the Folklore Tour adds a magical dimension. Food lovers should not miss the Street Food Tour, while history buffs will appreciate the Maritime History walk. For a personalized, photo-filled experience, the City Walk with Photography is perfect.
Budget, time, and physical activity levels are key. Shorter tours like the Sightseeing Walk suit quick visits, while full-day options like the South Coast trip are better for outdoor enthusiasts. Book early during peak summer months to secure spots, especially for private and themed tours.
Reykjavik offers a wide range of walking tours that cater to diverse interests—from Viking legends and folklore to gastronomy and maritime stories. For travelers seeking a quick overview, the Sightseeing Walk provides a lively introduction. For those wanting a deeper dive into local myth or history, options like the Viking Tour and LGBTQ+ Walk deliver personalized and insightful experiences. If your trip involves a passion for photography or food, specialized tours will make your memories—both visual and culinary—stand out.
No matter your choice, Reykjavik’s walkable streets and friendly guides make it easy to connect with the city’s spirit. Planning ahead and booking your preferred tour early will ensure you get the most out of your Iceland adventure—so get ready to step into Reykjavik’s stories and scenery.