3 Hour Shared Christmas Food Tour with Guide in Reykjavik

If you’re looking to experience Reykjavik beyond the usual sights, a 3-hour shared Christmas food tour offers a delicious glimpse into Iceland’s holiday culinary traditions. For $149 per person, with a small group and an engaging guide, you’ll visit several iconic spots around the city, sampling authentic Icelandic foods, sipping festive drinks, and hearing stories about local holiday customs. The tour is perfect for food lovers, curious travelers, and those wanting an insider’s look at Reykjavik’s Christmas spirit.

Two things we especially like about this experience are the variety of tastings—from smoked lamb to crispy leaf bread—and the intimate small-group setting, which makes for a more personal experience. Plus, the inclusion of local gifts and fun activities like letter-writing to Santa adds a charming touch.

One possible consideration is the schedule’s pace—with multiple stops within just three hours, you’ll want to arrive hungry and ready to move. Also, if you prefer a more relaxed, less hectic style of tour, this might feel a bit brisk. However, for those eager to maximize their tasting and sightseeing in a short time, it’s a great choice.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy culinary experiences and cultural storytelling. It’s especially appealing if you’re visiting Reykjavik during the holiday season and want to blend sightseeing with authentic food exploration. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler wanting to understand Iceland’s Christmas traditions, you’ll find something to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Authentic Icelandic tastes: Try smoked lamb, leaf bread, reindeer pâté, and more.
• Festive drinks: Wash down your samples with traditional Icelandic mulled wine (Jólaglögg).
• Local traditions: Learn about Iceland’s Yule Lads, Christmas stories, and customs.
• Small-group intimacy: Keep the experience personal and engaging.
• All-inclusive: No extra costs for tastings; the food is generous.
• Ideal for foodies: Perfect for those seeking an authentic, festive culinary adventure.

A Closer Look at the Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at Center Hotels Plaza, located at Aðalstræti 4-6 in downtown Reykjavik. Arriving 5 minutes early ensures you’re ready for the group’s departure. The meeting point is straightforward and near public transportation, making it easy to access from most city accommodations.

The tour lasts about three hours—a manageable length that balances tasting and sightseeing without feeling rushed. It’s capped at 12 travelers, which keeps the group small enough for personal interaction and easy navigation through Reykjavik’s festive spots. The tour ends back at the start point, so you can easily plan your next activity or enjoy a warm drink in town.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Central Meeting Point

The tour kicks off in front of the Center Hotels Plaza, a central location that’s convenient for most visitors. Here, your guide, whose storytelling and enthusiasm are often praised, will give a brief overview before heading out.

Stop 2: Laugavegur and the Little Christmas Shop

A short walk brings you to Laugavegur, Reykjavik’s main shopping street. Here, you’ll visit the Little Christmas Shop, where you’ll receive a small local gift—a thoughtful gesture that adds a personal touch. You also have the chance to write a letter to Santa, making this stop especially fun for families or those young at heart.

Stop 3: Le KocK – Icelandic Christmas Cuisine

At Le KocK, your guide skillfully introduces you to various Christmas foods typical of Iceland. Expect to sample items like smoked lamb—succulent and tender—and maybe some reindeer pâté, a delicacy that’s worth trying if you’re open to local flavors. The 35-minute stop is a highlight for many, offering a rich taste of Iceland’s culinary traditions.

Stop 4: Taste of Iceland

Next, Taste of Iceland continues the festive sampling, showcasing Christmas treats that highlight Iceland’s unique ingredients and preparation styles. It’s a chance to discover sweets and savory bites you might not find elsewhere—perfect for understanding what makes Icelandic holiday cuisine special.

Stop 5: Litla Jolabudin – Reykjavik’s Christmas Store

A visit to Litla Jolabudin, Reykjavik’s sole Christmas store, is like stepping into a holiday wonderland. Here, you’ll get another small gift, further immersing you in the Christmas spirit. The cozy shop offers a variety of decorations and souvenirs, making it a fun stop and a chance to find some unique holiday mementos.

Stop 6: Dass Reykjavik – Holiday Classics

At Dass Reykjavik, the focus is on traditional Icelandic holiday foods enjoyed during Christmas. The 40-minute tasting provides a hearty array of snacks, allowing you to experience what locals indulge in during the festive season. Many guests mention the knowledgeable guide—who shares stories and context—making the food even more meaningful.

Stop 7: Ingólfur Square and Christmas Stalls

Finally, the tour ends at Ingólfur Square, home to the ice skating rink and festive Christmas stalls. During December, this area transforms into a holiday market, where you might sample additional Christmas snacks and soak in the lively, joyful atmosphere. The 30-minute stay is a fitting conclusion, letting you enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of Reykjavik’s holiday season.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

One of the best features of this Christmas food tour is the small-group setting, which fosters personal interaction and allows your guide to share stories, legends, and traditions that you might otherwise miss. Many reviews praise guides like “telling us different stories of the Yule Lads and Cat”, making the experience both tasty and memorable.

Plus, all tastings are included, meaning you get a generous amount of food that could easily serve as a substantial meal. The emphasis on local, seasonal treats ensures that you’re sampling the authentic flavors that make Icelandic Christmas special. From crispy leaf bread (laufabrauð) to mulled wine (Jólaglögg), each sip and bite offers insight into the festive spirit of the country.

Authenticity and Cultural Insight

What sets this tour apart is the focus on both cuisine and tradition. You’ll learn about Iceland’s holiday customs, including the Yule Lads and local stories, adding depth to the tasting experience. Many guests enjoyed hearing stories about the Yule Lads and the Cat, which helped them appreciate the cultural significance behind each dish.

Value for Money

At $149, this tour offers a comprehensive tasting experience with multiple stops and small-group intimacy. Given that all food and drinks are included, and the experience lasts three hours, it’s a solid value—especially if you want to avoid the hassle of figuring out where and what to eat during the busy holiday season.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Christmas food tour is ideal for foodies wanting an authentic taste of Iceland’s holiday flavors. It’s also perfect for travelers who enjoy stories and cultural insights intertwined with their culinary adventures. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find value in the informative guides and festive atmosphere.

If you’re looking for a festive, immersive experience that combines food, tradition, and local charm in a short amount of time, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s also a good choice if you prefer small groups for a more personalized experience and want to avoid large, impersonal tours.

The Sum Up

The 3 Hour Shared Christmas Food Tour in Reykjavik offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Icelandic holiday traditions. You’ll enjoy a variety of delicious traditional foods, learn engaging stories about local customs, and soak in the festive atmosphere of Reykjavik’s Christmas market areas. The tour’s small-group format and all-inclusive tastings make it a smart choice for travelers who want a relaxed yet enriching experience.

While it moves at a brisk pace, most guests find it to be a joyful, flavorful way to celebrate the season. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate local culture and culinary authenticity—and who don’t mind a little walking and sampling along the way.

In essence, this tour blends food, stories, and holiday cheer into a compact, memorable experience that captures Reykjavik’s festive spirit. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or simply eager to understand what makes Iceland’s Christmas so special, this tour will give you a tasty, insightful slice of Icelandic holiday life.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is appropriate for most ages, especially since it includes fun activities like writing a letter to Santa and sampling treats. Just ensure children are comfortable walking between stops.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, given that the tour is popular and booked on average 107 days in advance, it’s best to reserve early to secure your spot.

How much walking is involved?
The tour involves several stops within Reykjavik’s city center, so expect some walking, but it’s manageable within the three hours.

Are all tastings included in the price?
Yes, all bites and samples are included, and they add up to a generous meal, so there’s no need to worry about extra costs during the tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

What kind of drinks are served?
Traditional Icelandic drinks such as Jólaglögg, a mulled wine, are included, perfect for warming up during the festive season.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Absolutely. The fun activities and flavorful foods make it suitable for families, especially those interested in cultural stories and holiday treats.

Will I learn about Icelandic Christmas traditions?
Yes, your guide shares stories about the Yule Lads, local customs, and holiday history, enriching your understanding of Iceland’s Christmas.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, especially if the weather is cold, since some stops are outdoors or in unheated areas. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking.

This small-group Christmas food tour in Reykjavik offers a delightful way to indulge your senses and deepen your understanding of Iceland’s holiday customs. It’s a flavorful, festive, and memorable way to celebrate the season in the Icelandic capital.