Iceland’s capital transforms during Christmas, offering travelers practical ways to experience Nordic holiday traditions. The city’s compact center makes walking tours especially worthwhile – you’ll learn about unique customs like the 13 Yule Lads and traditional decorations. Evening northern lights tours on Christmas Day are smart choices, combining natural wonder with less crowded viewing conditions. Food tours stand out for introducing visitors to holiday specialties like hangikjöt (smoked lamb) and laufabrauð (leaf bread).
I’m particularly fond of the private city tours, which let you skip the big groups and really understand local Christmas customs at your own pace. The evening light tours are another gem, showing off Reykjavik’s cozy winter atmosphere and illuminated landmarks.
Check out these recommended Christmas tours in Reykjavik:
Key Points
- Immerse in Icelandic Christmas traditions with the highly-rated Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour, offering insights into folklore and festive experiences.
- Witness the stunning Northern Lights on a Christmas Day or Eve tour, with transportation, blankets, and hot beverages provided.
- Indulge in traditional Icelandic Christmas dishes, including smoked lamb and reindeer pâté, on a 3-hour shared Christmas Food Tour.
- Explore Reykjavik’s holiday highlights with a private Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour, featuring personalized experiences and seasonal refreshments.
- Discover the city’s magical Christmas spirit and hidden gems on a guided Magical Christmas Tour, including a visit to the Hallgrimskirkja Church tower.
Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour
The Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour offers a delightful way to take in the festive spirit of Iceland’s capital city.
This highly-rated 5-star tour takes participants on a journey through Reykjavik’s charming streets, exploring local Christmas traditions and experiences.
Highlights include a visit to the national Christmas tree, stops at cozy record shops for hot cocoa and cookies, and a glimpse into Icelandic folklore shared by knowledgeable guides.
The tour is accessible for all, accommodating wheelchair users and strollers.
With a maximum of 99 travelers, the experience promises an intimate and engaging exploration of Reykjavik’s yuletide cheer, making it a must-do activity for those visiting the city during the holiday season.
Read our full review: Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour Review
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From Reykjavik: Christmas Day Northern Lights Tour
For those seeking a magical Christmas Day adventure, the From Reykjavik: Christmas Day Northern Lights Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the ethereal beauty of the northern lights.
Priced from $182 per person, this 5-hour tour takes you outside Reykjavik to minimize light pollution and offers the best chance of spotting the mesmerizing aurora.
With transportation, blankets, and hot beverages included, you’ll enjoy the experience in comfort. The tour accommodates 30-40 participants and is conducted in English.
If the northern lights make an appearance, a guide will capture group photos and email them to you within 7 days.
Read our full review: From Reykjavik: Christmas Day Northern Lights Tour Review
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Exploring the rich tapestry of Icelandic Christmas cuisine, the 3-Hour Shared Christmas Food Tour in Reykjavik offers an immersive culinary adventure.
Led by expert local guides, the tour showcases traditional Icelandic Christmas dishes, including smoked lamb, crispy leaf bread, glazed Hamborgarhrygg, and reindeer paté.
Complementing the food is a selection of festive drinks like Jólaöl, malt & appelsín, and Jólaglögg mulled wine.
The small-group experience, limited to 12 travelers, allows for a more intimate and personalized exploration.
Beyond the tastings, the tour includes a visit to a Christmas shop and a stop at an ice-skating rink.
With convenient meeting and transportation access, this tour provides an authentic and memorable way to experience Reykjavik’s Christmas food traditions.
Read our full review: 3 Hour Shared Christmas Food Tour With Guide in Reykjavik Review
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Private Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour
Set out on a private Reykjavik Christmas walking tour and uncover the enchanting holiday traditions of Iceland’s vibrant capital. Priced from $146.49 per person, this expert-led experience offers a personalized exploration of the city.
You’ll savor coffee, hot cocoa, and pastries as your fun-loving guide shares insights. The tour departs from the statue of Skúli the sheriff and ends at the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church.
Service animals are welcome, and the tour is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. With 4 reviews and a 4.0 overall rating, this private Christmas walking tour promises an immersive and memorable holiday adventure in Reykjavik.
Read our full review: Private Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour Review
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The Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour
Immerse oneself in Reykjavik’s vibrant holiday celebrations with the captivating Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour.
This 3-hour excursion promises to delight the senses, exploring the city’s festive traditions with passionate local guides. Indulge in a mouthwatering array of Icelandic Christmas specialties, from smoked lamb to reindeer pâté, while learning about the history and cultural significance of each dish.
Sip on festive beverages like Jólaöl (Christmas ale) and Jólaglögg (mulled wine), and discover the Little Christmas Store in Laugavegur.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to book without upfront payment, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an authentic Icelandic Christmas experience.
Read our full review: The Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour Review
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Magical Christmas Tour in Beautiful Reykjavik
For those seeking to fully experience Reykjavik’s enchanting Christmas spirit, the Magical Christmas Tour in Beautiful Reykjavik offers an unparalleled opportunity.
This personalized tour guides visitors through the city’s hidden gems, showcasing the festive highlights of the holiday season. Explore charming squares adorned with twinkling lights, discover unique shopping spots, and admire one of Iceland’s oldest Christmas trees.
Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour also includes admission to the iconic Hallgrimskirkja tower, providing great photo opportunities of the city’s Christmas decorations.
With convenient meeting and end points, this magical experience is a must-do for anyone visiting Reykjavik during the Christmas season.
Read our full review: Magical Christmas Tour in Beautiful Reykjavik Review
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From Reykjavik: Christmas Eve Northern Lights Tour
On Christmas Eve, visitors in Reykjavik can join an exciting Northern Lights tour that takes them on a journey to witness the mesmerizing aurora borealis.
The 5-hour Christmas Eve Northern Lights Tour departs from downtown Reykjavik and select hotels, giving participants the chance to stargaze and search for the elusive Northern Lights.
Along the way, they’ll enjoy warm beverages, snacks, and blankets while also having guided photography opportunities.
The tour is weather-dependent, with assessments made daily. Participants can book now and pay later, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Warm clothing is recommended, and infant seats are provided at no extra cost.
Read our full review: From Reykjavik: Christmas Eve Northern Lights Tour Review
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Recap
Reykjavik offers a range of unique Christmas experiences. From guided walking tours to Northern Lights excursions and food tours, visitors can enjoy the city’s festive spirit. Whether you’re seeking traditional Icelandic cuisine or a chance to witness the natural wonder of the Aurora Borealis, Reykjavik’s Christmas activities provide unforgettable ways to celebrate the holiday season.