Reykjavik: Folklore Walking Tour with Elves, Trolls & Ghosts

Summary

Walk Reykjavik’s oldest paths meeting elves trolls ghosts with local tales

You’ll wander Reykjavik’s oldest corners with a local guide, hear haunting stories of ghosts like the Deacon of Dark River, meet elves and trolls among ancient graves, and try your hand at Icelandic folklore words (good luck!). Expect laughter, goosebumps, and that odd feeling you might not be alone after all.

What’s the experience like?

Li was already waiting by Ingolfur Square when I arrived, her scarf pulled up against the wind. She grinned and asked if I believed in elves. I just shrugged — honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect from a folklore walking tour in Reykjavik. But right away she pointed at this mossy stone wedged between two old buildings and whispered, “That’s an elfstone — people leave it alone.” It was oddly quiet there, except for the distant clang of a bus. I caught myself glancing over my shoulder more than once. You know how sometimes you feel watched? Yeah.

The first cemetery we wandered into felt older than memory itself — Li said it dated back to around 900. The air smelled like wet earth and something sweet I couldn’t place (maybe those wildflowers poking up everywhere). She told us about the Deacon of Dark River, Iceland’s most famous ghost. Her voice dropped low as she described his fate, and even though it was daytime, I swear the shadows got longer. We passed graves with runes carved deep into the stones — some so worn you had to squint to read them.

I tried to say “Jólasveinar” (the Yule Lads) out loud, but Li laughed and corrected me gently — probably butchered it. She explained how these thirteen Santa-like pranksters sneak around during Iceland’s long winter nights, and then she launched into the story of Grýla, their mother (who apparently eats naughty children). That one made everyone shiver a bit — or maybe it was just the wind picking up by the lake.

There were moments where I forgot we were in a city at all; standing by Reykjavik Lake listening to tales of monsters that supposedly lurk beneath its surface. The water looked calm but somehow… not entirely safe? We ended near City Hall where Li showed us this huge map of Iceland and pointed out places where trolls are rumored to live. I kept thinking about that elfstone from earlier — how nobody dares move it even now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Reykjavik's mythical creatures and sites

• Meet and greet with mythical creatures
• Visit Iceland's oldest graveyard
• See the elves
• Learn about trolls disliking the church
• Visit second oldest cemetery and meet the Deacon ghost
• Hear stories about Icelandic monsters by the lake
• Walk by City Hall and view Iceland map
• Visit Icelandic guardian spirits
• Reach final destination of the mythical walk

Top questions

Is the Reykjavik folklore walking tour suitable for kids?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

Where does the folklore tour start?

The tour begins at Ingolfur Square in central Reykjavik.

How long is the walk on this folklore tour?

The exact duration isn’t listed but covers several stops in central Reykjavik on foot.

Are cemeteries included on this day trip?

Yes, you’ll visit two of Reykjavik’s oldest cemeteries during the walk.

Will we hear about Icelandic ghosts on this tour?

Yes, stories include famous ghosts like the Deacon of Dark River.

Is this walking tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible throughout the route.

What language is spoken during the tour?

The tour is led in English by a professional guide.

Does this folklore walk operate in bad weather?

Yes, it runs in all weather conditions—dress appropriately for Iceland’s climate.

What’s included

Your evening includes a guided walk through Reykjavik’s oldest streets with live storytelling from a local guide; visits to ancient cemeteries; tales of elves, trolls, ghosts like the Deacon of Dark River; plus an introduction to Icelandic magic—all starting from Ingolfur Square with no need for transport or special equipment.