Reykjavik: Walking Tour with Street Art, History & Local Tastes

Summary

Reykjavik’s street art colors, legends and hidden corners with local stories

You’ll wander Reykjavik’s colorful streets with a local guide who knows every quirky story behind the murals and landmarks. Expect to taste dried fish and schnapps, climb up to Hallgrímskirkja for city views, and end up laughing over Icelandic words you can’t quite pronounce. The city feels different when you see it this way.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I almost missed the start because I got distracted by a puffin mural on Laugavegur. Our guide, Sigrún, just grinned and said that happens a lot here in Reykjavik. She had this way of making you feel like you were just out for a walk with a friend who happened to know every weird detail about the city (like why there are so many cats — still not sure I believe her theory). The first few blocks were all bright houses and the kind of chilly wind that makes your nose tingle. It felt good to move.

We ducked into alleys I’d never have noticed if I was alone. There was this one spot where the air smelled faintly like cinnamon from a bakery nearby, and someone had painted an entire wall with giant blue whales. Sigrún told us about the Parliament house and pointed out how locals always seem to walk slower here — maybe it’s the cold or maybe everyone’s just less stressed than back home. We stopped at Hallgrímskirkja church (I still can’t pronounce it right), and she let us take our time gawking at the view instead of hurrying us along.

The last stretch was uphill — not gonna lie, my legs complained a bit. But then we ended up in this sculpture garden behind Einar Jónsson’s museum where everything was oddly quiet except for some distant gulls. Sigrún handed out dried fish (chewy, salty — not what I expected) and a tiny shot of Icelandic schnapps that burned all the way down. Someone tried to say “Skál” and totally butchered it; we all laughed, even Sigrún. That moment felt warmer than my gloves.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Reykjavik landmarks and street art

• Introduction to Reykjavik history
• Walk Reykjavik main street and street art
• Admire National Theater architecture
• See Parliament House and nearby buildings
• Visit Hallgrimskirkja church
• Explore Einar Jonsson sculpture garden
• Enjoy cityscape at lake shore

Top questions

How long is the Reykjavik walking tour?

The tour lasts about 2 hours 40 minutes to 3 hours.

Is food included on the Reykjavik walking tour?

Yes, you get to try Icelandic schnapps, dried fish, and local sweets during the tour.

How far do you walk on this Reykjavik city tour?

The route covers almost 3 miles through central Reykjavik.

Is there hotel pickup for this Reykjavik walking tour?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at the starting point in central Reykjavik.

Is this walking tour suitable for people with mobility issues?

No, it’s not recommended for travelers with walking difficulties or heart conditions due to stairs and uphill sections.

What language is the tour conducted in?

The walking tour is in English only; no other languages are offered.

Are service animals allowed on this Reykjavik walking tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

What are some highlights visited during the tour?

You’ll see Hallgrímskirkja church, Parliament house, Einar Jónsson’s sculpture garden, street art spots, and city panoramas by the lake.

What’s included

Your day includes guidance from a local storyteller who leads you through colorful streets and hidden murals; tastings of Icelandic schnapps, dried fish, and sweets; plus stops at landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja church and Einar Jónsson’s sculpture garden before finishing near the city lake panorama.