Reykjavik: Walking Tour City Stories & Viking History

Summary

Walk Reykjavik’s old streets, hear Viking tales, find hidden corners

You’ll walk Reykjavik’s heart with a local guide who mixes Viking history with everyday city life. Expect laughs over tricky Icelandic words, stops at landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja and Harpa Concert Hall, plus little surprises—a peek at an elf stone or secret bakery tip. You’ll leave with more than photos; you’ll feel part of the city’s rhythm for a while.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I signed up for this Reykjavik walking tour mostly because I was jet-lagged and needed someone to help me make sense of the city. Turns out, it’s not just about finding your bearings—our guide (Einar, who wore this sky-blue jacket that made him easy to spot) started us off in Ingólfur Square and within minutes had us laughing about Icelandic pronunciations. Hallgrímskirkja? Still can’t say it right. The group felt small enough that nobody got lost or left behind, even when we wandered into side streets that didn’t look like much but apparently hid some wild stories.

We ducked into the oldest house in Reykjavik, which looked like it might shiver apart in a strong wind—inside smelled faintly of wood smoke and something sweet I couldn’t quite place. Einar told us about the Vikings settling here and pointed out the Settlement Exhibition through a grate in the sidewalk (I nearly missed it). There’s something grounding about standing above those ancient stones while city life buzzes overhead. Later, at Austurvöllur square, locals were actually out sunbathing—even though it was barely 10°C. I tried to blend in but my hands were freezing; Icelanders are made of sterner stuff.

We stopped by Lake Tjörnin where ducks squabbled over breadcrumbs and the Parliament building stood quietly nearby—Einar mentioned Alþingi is one of the world’s oldest parliaments. He also showed us an “elf stone” tucked behind some shrubs; I honestly thought he was joking until he started telling these earnest stories about Icelandic folklore. Harpa Concert Hall glimmered in the weird northern light (it really does look different every few minutes), and then we wandered Laugavegur where someone handed me a sample of dried fish outside a shop. Not my thing—but hey, when in Iceland.

I still think about that view from Arnahöll hill: rooftops painted every color you can imagine, mountains lurking behind them like quiet giants. The tour wrapped up with Einar scribbling his favorite bakery’s name on my map—he said their cinnamon rolls are “almost spiritual.” Maybe he was joking? Either way, I went back twice before leaving town.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Reykjavik's historic city center

• Meet guide at Ingólfur Square
• Visit oldest house in Reykjavik
• See The Settlement Exhibition
• Relax at Austurvöllur square
• Tour Reykjavik City Council House
• Walk around Lake Tjörnin
• Visit Alþingi Parliament building
• Explore oldest graveyard
• Stroll Old Reykjavik Harbour
• Visit Harpa Concert Hall
• Walk along Laugavegur street
• Stop at Arnahöll viewpoint
• Visit Hallgrímskirkja Church

Top questions

Where does the Reykjavik walking tour start?

The tour begins at Ingólfur Square in central Reykjavik by two tall stone pillars near Center Hotels Plaza.

How long is the Reykjavik walking tour?

The exact duration isn’t listed, but expect a relaxed pace covering all main city center highlights and hidden spots.

Is this walking tour suitable for kids or families?

Yes, it’s family-friendly and suitable for all fitness levels; strollers and service animals are welcome too.

What main sights are included on this Reykjavik walking tour?

You’ll see Harpa Concert Hall, Hallgrímskirkja Church, Lake Tjörnin, Parliament building (Alþingi), Old Harbour, Laugavegur street, Arnahöll hill, plus lesser-known spots like an elf stone.

Is the Reykjavik walking tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and transportation options are wheelchair accessible.

Are food or drinks included during the tour?

No meals are included but your guide will point out favorite local places to eat or grab coffee along the way.

How big is each group on this Reykjavik walking tour?

The group size is kept small—maximum 12 people—for a more personal experience.

Does the tour run if it rains or snows?

Yes—it operates in all weather conditions; just dress appropriately for Icelandic weather!

What’s included

Your day includes meeting your expert local guide at Ingólfur Square for a small-group walk through central Reykjavik’s landmarks and side streets—with lively stories about Viking history and city life along the way. All ages are welcome; strollers and wheelchairs fit right in. No transport needed—just show up ready to explore rain or shine.