Reykjavik Folklore Walking Tour: Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland

The Reykjavik Folklore Walking Tour promises to transport visitors into the captivating realm of Icelandic mythology. Led by expert storytellers, this unique excursion guides participants through the city’s oldest quarter, uncovering tales of supernatural entities that have long been woven into the cultural fabric. From haunted sites to enchanting playgrounds, the tour offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the mystical world that has enchanted Icelanders for generations. Whether you’re a lover of folklore or simply curious about the country’s rich heritage, this immersive experience is sure to leave you intrigued and eager to learn more.

Key Points

• This guided tour of Reykjavik explores the city’s rich folklore, sharing stories about elves, trolls, ghosts, and other mythical Icelandic creatures.
• The tour visits historic sites, graveyards, and landmarks believed to be haunted or inhabited by supernatural beings, providing a unique cultural experience.
• Participants learn about the history and legends surrounding the oldest graveyard in Iceland, dating back to around 900 AD.
• The tour includes stops at a local playground and the serene Tjörnin pond, both of which are associated with Icelandic guardian spirits and folklore.
• The engaging storytelling and live entertainment offer visitors a captivating glimpse into Iceland’s vibrant mythological heritage.

Tour Overview

The Reykjavik Folklore Walking Tour offers participants the opportunity to explore the captivating world of Icelandic myths and legends, guided by a professional who shares stories of the city’s elves, trolls, and ghosts.

This 1.5-hour tour covers the oldest part of Reykjavik, with stops at historic sites believed to be haunted or inhabited by supernatural creatures.

Visitors can expect live entertainment and the chance to learn about local folklore, including tales of the country’s mythical beings.

With 511 glowing reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this immersive experience provides a unique window into Iceland’s rich cultural heritage and the enchanting tales that have captivated its people for generations.

Key Stops

On this tour, visitors explore the oldest graveyard in Iceland, dating back to around 900 AD, as well as a local playground and the Cathedral of Christ the King.

They’ll also visit Hólavallakirkjugarður, the second oldest cemetery in Reykjavik, and Tjörnin, the local pond.

The tour culminates at Reykjavik City Hall and the Alþingishús, a building associated with Icelandic guardian spirits.

The key stops on this tour include:

• The oldest graveyard in Iceland (dating from around 900 AD)
• A local playground
• The Cathedral of Christ the King
• Hólavallakirkjugarður (second oldest cemetery in Reykjavik)
• Tjörnin (local pond)

The tour provides a unique opportunity to learn about Iceland’s rich folklore and the supernatural entities that are believed to inhabit these historic sites.

Tour Highlights

Participants on this tour can expect to learn about local myths and folklore, hearing captivating stories about elves, trolls, ghosts, and Icelandic monsters. They’ll also visit sites believed to be haunted or inhabited by supernatural creatures.

The knowledgeable guide will share insights into the deep-rooted beliefs and traditions of Icelandic culture. Highlights include exploring the oldest graveyard in Iceland, dating back to around 900 AD, and visiting a local playground believed to be a gathering place for the Icelandic guardian spirits known as the Álfþingishúsið.

With live entertainment and engaging storytelling, this tour offers a unique glimpse into the mystical world of Icelandic folklore.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour meets at Ingolfur Square in central Reykjavik, with the end point at Austurvollur Square, close to the starting location.

The guide usually wears a light blue jacket with ‘Your Friend in Reykjavik‘ printed on the back, making them easy to identify.

Participants are advised to arrive 5 minutes before the starting time, as the tour operates in all weather conditions.

The maximum group size is 999 travelers, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Confirmation is provided at time of booking.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Appropriate clothing is recommended.

Most travelers can participate.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Oldest Graveyard in Iceland

One of the first stops on the Reykjavik Folklore Walking Tour is the oldest graveyard in Iceland, dating back to around 900 AD.

This ancient cemetery offers a glimpse into the rich history and folklore of the region. The tour guide will share tales of the spirits and supernatural beings believed to haunt this hallowed ground.

Visitors can wander through the weathered gravestones and imagine the stories they hold. The graveyard’s eerie atmosphere and connections to the supernatural make it a captivating location on the tour.

As the group explores this historic site, they’ll learn about the enduring myths and legends that continue to shape Icelandic culture and identity.

Haunted Sites and Supernatural Creatures

Continuing the tour, the guide captivates visitors with tales of the haunted sites and supernatural creatures that are believed to roam Reykjavik.

From the ancient graveyard, the group moves on to explore other locations said to be inhabited by elves, trolls, and ghostly entities. The guide shares chilling stories about:

• The local playground, where the mischievous elf children are said to lurk
• Tjörnin, the tranquil pond rumored to be home to a fearsome lake monster

Alþingishúsið, the parliament building guarded by Icelandic guardian spirits.

The City Hall, whispered to be haunted by the ghosts of former politicians.

Hólavallakirkjugarður, the second oldest cemetery, where otherworldly beings are believed to roam.

Local Playground and Landmarks

From the ancient graveyard, the tour guide captivates visitors with tales of the local playground, where mischievous elf children are said to lurk.

As the group wanders through the old streets, they come across the Cathedral of Christ the King, a grand religious structure that stands tall over the city.

Next, they visit Hólavallakirkjugarður, the second oldest cemetery in Reykjavík, where stories of ghostly apparitions emerge.

The tour then leads them to Tjörnin, the serene local pond, and the Reykjavík City Hall, a modernist building that houses the city’s government.

Throughout the journey, the guide regales the group with enchanting folklore about the Álfþingishús, the Icelandic guardian spirits believed to inhabit these landmarks.

Additional Tour Details

The walking tour provides clear confirmation at the time of booking and is wheelchair accessible, allowing most travelers to participate in the experience.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour operates in all weather conditions, with appropriate clothing recommended.

Visitors are advised to arrive 5 minutes before the starting time, as the maximum group size is 999 travelers, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour begins.

The tour offers several notable features:

• Confirmation provided at booking
• Wheelchair accessible
• Children must be accompanied
• Operates in all weather conditions
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before

Frequently Asked Questions

How Accurately Are the Supernatural Creatures Portrayed?

The tour portrays supernatural creatures, like elves and trolls, in a way that aligns with traditional Icelandic folklore. Guides share stories and legends about these beings, providing an accurate representation of how they’re viewed in the country’s culture.

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The tour is suitable for young children as it requires they be accompanied by an adult. The stories and sites visited may capture a child’s imagination, but parental discretion is advised due to potential supernatural content.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?

The tour can be customized for private groups. The tour operator offers flexible options to accommodate the specific needs and interests of private parties. Private tours allow for a more personalized experience.

What Happens if the Weather Is Extremely Poor?

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so even in extremely poor weather, the experience continues. Appropriate clothing is recommended to ensure visitors stay comfortable throughout the tour.

Are Photos Allowed During the Tour?

Photos are generally allowed during the tour. However, guests should be considerate of others and avoid using flash photography. The tour guide can provide guidance on appropriate photo opportunities throughout the experience.

Recap

The Reykjavik Folklore Walking Tour offers a captivating glimpse into Iceland’s enchanting mythological heritage.

Led by a skilled storyteller, the tour takes participants on a journey through the city’s oldest neighborhoods, uncovering haunted sites and encountering supernatural creatures like elves and trolls.

Whether you’re a folklore enthusiast or simply curious about Iceland’s rich cultural traditions, this unique experience isn’t to be missed.