Weekend Reykjavik Food Tour with a stop at the Reykjavik Flea Market

Experience the Flavors of Reykjavik: A Food Tour with a Flea Market Stop

Imagine wandering through the lively streets of Reykjavik, sampling Icelandic specialties, and learning about the country’s culture along the way. This Weekend Reykjavik Food Tour offers just that: a 3-hour journey through the city’s culinary scene, led by friendly guides, at a price of around $136 per person. You’ll visit vibrant markets, cozy bars, and iconic eateries, ending in the heart of downtown near Hallgrimskirkja at Icelandic Street Food.

What we love most: the small group size makes for an intimate experience, and the variety of tastings — from seafood to local snacks — keeps things exciting. Plus, the inclusion of local drinks gives a perfect finish.

A potential consideration: the flea market stop is only available on weekends, so plan accordingly. Also, some reviews mention that guides can be quieter or more talkative, so if you’re a curious eater, you might want to ask plenty of questions.

This tour suits food lovers who want a taste of Reykjavik’s authentic dishes and enjoy learning about local traditions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, the mix of history, culture, and cuisine makes this a worthwhile addition to your trip.

Key Points

• Authentic Icelandic flavors: Sample seafood, hot dogs, whale meat, and more.
• Small group size: Ensures personalized attention and more interactions.
• Cultural insights: Guides share stories about Iceland’s history and traditions.
• All tastings included: No need to worry about extra costs during the tour.
• Convenient central meeting point: Starts at Ingolfur Square, ends downtown.
• Weekend-only flea market visit: Offers a look at local shopping and snacks.

A Deep Dive into the Reykjavik Food Tour

Starting Point: Ingolfur Square

The tour begins at Ingolfur Square, which serves as a natural meeting place in the heart of Reykjavik. Walking into the city’s main square, you get a sense of local life and history. The meeting point is very accessible, close to public transportation, making it easy to find and start your adventure.

First Stop: Reykjavik Harbour and Shellfish Soup

From the outset, you’ll notice that seafood is a cornerstone of Icelandic cuisine. The first stop takes us down to the old harbor, where a steaming bowl of Icelandic shellfish soup awaits. The rich, flavorful broth filled with fresh shellfish is a perfect introduction to Iceland’s marine bounty. One reviewer describes it as a must-try dish, emphasizing how “you really should try out Icelandic seafood while in Iceland.”

Expect a warm, hearty appetizer that sets the tone for the rest of the day’s tastings. The harbor views add a scenic backdrop that’ll make your first bites even more memorable.

The Market: Kolaportið and the Reykjavik Flea Market

Next, we stroll through the authentic flea market inside Kolaportið, only open weekends from 11 am to 5 pm. This bustling small food market is a treasure trove of traditional Icelandic foods, snacks, and curiosities. Here, you’ll discover regional delicacies, some of which might surprise and intrigue you.

One guest loved exploring the market’s traditional foods, describing it as a “fun stroll,” and appreciated the chance to see local treats that aren’t in your average grocery store. Keep in mind, if you’re visiting on a weekday, this stop won’t be available.

The Iconic Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur Hot Dog Stand

No Icelandic culinary experience would be complete without trying the famous lamb hot dog at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, which has been serving hot dogs since 1937. This stand is a local institution, beloved by both travelers and residents.

One reviewer calls it a “must-visit,” noting how delicious the hot dogs are, and emphasizing that “you must go to this food stall as it’s the original one from 1937.” The hot dog is simple but packed with flavor, often served with traditional condiments like crispy fried onions and sweet relish.

Exploring Icelandic Snacks and Sweets

A quick stop at a local supermarket offers a peek at Iceland’s unique snacks and candies. Expect to see some regional treats, which might be unfamiliar but are fun to try. This tasting allows you to sample Icelandic snacks in a casual setting, adding variety to your experience.

The Grand Finale: Icelandic Street Food

The tour wraps up at Icelandic Street Food, renowned for their meat soup, affectionately called “Iceland in a bowl.” This hearty dish is a true comfort food, made with local ingredients packed into a big bowl, perfect for warming up after a day of exploring.

Guests describe this as a generous portion of flavorful, traditional Icelandic comfort food. One reviewer happily mentions that after this tour, they felt more oriented to the city and had a better understanding of Icelandic cuisine and culture.

The Finish Line and the Last Toast

The tour concludes in the lively downtown area, where you’ll be offered a local Icelandic drink to toast your culinary adventure. The inclusion of beverages, including alcoholic drinks, adds to the social and relaxed atmosphere, making it easy to chat with your guide and fellow travelers.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The small-group format (limited to 12 travelers) significantly enhances the experience. You get more personal interaction, better opportunities to ask questions, and a chance for your guide to tailor the experience a bit. Multiple reviews praise guides like Ester, Oli, Stefan, and Ólafur for their friendliness, knowledge, and storytelling skills, which bring the food and culture to life.

Authentic and diverse tastings are a highlight; many travelers appreciate sampling dishes like whale meat and shark, which give a real taste of Icelandic culinary curiosities. One guest notes, “I was very surprised how the whale meat tasted, it tasted like steak.” The variety of foods, combined with stories behind them, provides not just a meal but a deeper understanding of Iceland’s traditions.

Considerations and Tips

• The flea market stop only runs on weekends, so if your trip falls on a weekday, you might miss this part.
• Some reviews mention that guides can be quieter, so if you’re eager for lots of questions and chatter, don’t hesitate to ask.
• The tour involves some walking and stairs at restaurants, so comfortable shoes are advisable.
• The price balances well with the variety of tastings, cultural insights, and the small group size, making it a good value for foodies.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for food lovers eager to try Icelandic dishes beyond the usual tourist fare. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate stories and cultural context, as guides share insights into Iceland’s traditions and history. If you’re interested in trying local delicacies like whale and shark, this tour gives you safe and guided access to these experiences.

It’s a great choice for first-time visitors wanting a quick, authentic introduction to Reykjavik, especially since the tour serves as an excellent orientation at the start of your trip. The small size and central location make it a convenient, engaging way to kick off your Iceland adventure.

The Sum Up

The Weekend Reykjavik Food Tour with a stop at the Reykjavik Flea Market offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Iceland’s culinary scene. Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides, you’ll sample everything from seafood and hot dogs to whale and shark, gaining insight into the traditions behind each dish. The inclusion of local drinks and the intimate group size make this experience both fun and educational.

This tour is especially valuable for foodies, curious travelers, and those wanting a quick local immersion early in their trip. It balances good value with authentic experiences, making it a memorable highlight of Reykjavik.

If you’re after an engaging, tasty introduction to Iceland’s flavors and culture, this tour deserves a spot on your Reykjavik itinerary.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, providing a relaxed pace that allows plenty of tasting and conversation.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Some food stops involve stairs or walking.

Do I need to bring anything special?
All tastings are included, so just bring your curiosity and a good appetite. Dress appropriately for weather, as the tour operates in all conditions.

Where does the tour start and end?
Starts at Ingolfur Square and ends in downtown Reykjavik at Icelandic Street Food.

Are vegetarian options available?
The tour features Icelandic seafood, hot dogs, and traditional meat dishes. If you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to inquire directly.

How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

Is alcohol included?
Yes, the tour includes beverages, including Icelandic drinks to toast at the end.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

What are some highlights I should look forward to?
Trying a traditional shellfish soup, sampling the legendary hot dog, exploring the flea market, and enjoying Icelandic meat soup.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly.

In summary, this Reykjavik food tour offers a rich, flavorful insight into Iceland’s culinary culture within a friendly, small-group setting. It’s a perfect way to start your trip by tasting local dishes, learning stories behind them, and seeing the city through the eyes of passionate guides.