Reykjavik: Small Group Walking Tour & Hallgrímskirkja Start

Summary

Wander Reykjavik’s colorful streets from Hallgrímskirkja to Harpa with stories and laughter along the way

You’ll walk Reykjavik’s lively streets with a local guide, starting at Hallgrímskirkja and winding past Rainbow Street toward Harpa Concert Hall. Expect stories that blend history with everyday life, indoor stops if it gets chilly, and plenty of chances for photos or quick laughs. The city feels different when you wander it this way — sometimes familiar, sometimes surprising.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it’s like to see Reykjavik through someone who actually lives here? I didn’t expect to laugh so much on this small group walking tour — or to feel my cheeks tingle from the wind one minute and then warm up inside City Hall the next. We started right in front of Hallgrímskirkja, which is even more dramatic up close than in photos. Our guide, Sigrún, joked that the church looks like a spaceship about to launch (I kind of see it now). She had this way of mixing Icelandic history with little side comments about her own family, like how her grandmother always made fun of the church’s design. I liked that.

The route took us down Rainbow Street, which is exactly as bright as you’d hope — I snapped a photo but honestly, it doesn’t capture the weird energy of people dodging puddles and stopping for coffee. At one point, we ducked into a gallery because the wind picked up; Sigrún didn’t miss a beat and just kept telling us about Guðjón Samúelsson, who designed both the church and the National Theatre (I probably pronounced his name wrong every time). There were moments where I just stood there smelling rain on stone and listening to her talk about Viking settlers — it felt like time slowed down for a second.

I think my favorite bit was near the old harbour. You can still smell fish if you catch the breeze right (not in a bad way, just… real). Someone in our group asked about Icelandic politics and Sigrún got this mischievous look before launching into a story about protests by the lake. We ended close to Harpa Concert Hall — its glass panels catching whatever light there was left. We didn’t go inside that day because of some event, but honestly I didn’t mind; being outside felt right somehow.

There’s something about wandering Reykjavik with someone who knows all its quirks — like why people wave at ducks by City Hall or how everyone has an opinion about weather apps here. It wasn’t rushed at all; we stopped whenever someone wanted to take photos or just warm up indoors for a bit. I still think about that view from Hallgrímskirkja steps, looking out over rooftops and steam rising from somewhere far off. Makes you want to come back in another season just to see what changes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Reykjavik walking tour highlights

• Start at Hallgrímskirkja church
• Pass Rainbow Street galleries and shops
• Pass National Theatre of Iceland
• Learn about Viking Ingolfur Arnarson
• Learn history of old harbour and fishing
• Visit City Hall with Iceland map
• Learn about Icelandic history and politics
• End near Harpa Concert Hall

Top questions

Is this Reykjavik walking tour suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s relaxed and stroller-friendly so children are welcome.

Does the tour include indoor stops if it’s cold?

Yes, your guide may add indoor stops like City Hall depending on weather.

Where does the walking tour start in Reykjavik?

The tour begins in front of Hallgrímskirkja church.

How long is the walk between landmarks?

The route is downhill and flexible; exact distances vary but pace is easygoing.

Is this small group walking tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible throughout the tour.

Do we visit Harpa Concert Hall inside?

The route ends near Harpa; entry isn’t always possible due to events but you’ll be close by.

Will we learn about Icelandic history on this tour?

Yes, your local guide shares stories about history, politics, and daily life along the way.

What’s included

Your day includes a small group walk led by a professional local guide who shares stories as you stroll from Hallgrímskirkja through Rainbow Street toward Harpa Concert Hall. The route is fully wheelchair accessible with flexible indoor stops if needed due to weather—so you’re covered whether it’s windy or calm outside.