See Reykjavík on foot with a city walking tour
Compact, pedestrian-friendly, and breathtakingly scenic, Reykjavík is the perfect city to explore on foot. From the bustling street Laugavegur to the Öskjuhlíð hill, there’s plenty to see and do.
One of the best ways to get an insider’s perspective on the city is on a Reykjavík city walking tour. Led by a local guide, you’ll see the landmarks and hear the stories that most visitors overlook. If you really want to learn what makes Icelanders tick, a walking tour is your best option.
There are many different tours on offer, from cultural walks to food tours and seasonal strolls. However you like to travel, you’ll find something here for you.
For example, a Reykjavík food tour gives you the perfect introduction into the world of Icelandic cuisine. You’ll discover the places to eat and drink around the city, make some friends along the way, and try some of the delicacies you might not have dared try otherwise. Fermented shark, anyone?
Alternatively, focus on Iceland’s drinking culture on a booze tour. You’ll try the country’s beer—which was banned for a long time—as well as the iconic brennivín. This one’s for adults only!
Visit at Christmas time and we’ll show you some of the most impressive festival displays across the city. You’ll see Reykjavík’s top light shows and explore the unique traditions that make Icelandic Christmas—or Jól, as Icelanders call it—so special.
Christmas is not the only time of magic in Iceland. Join a mythical walk to hear the stories of Iceland’s complex past. From sagas full of trolls to stories of sea monsters, there’s lots to learn that you may otherwise miss.
Explore our tours to find out more.
FAQ:
While Reykjavík is a great city to explore on foot, the weather can sometimes get in the way. That’s why the summer is probably the best time of year to discover the best of the city’s gems. There’s the added bonus of midnight sun to enjoy at this time of year too.
That said, advent—the period approaching Christmas—is a great time to see Reykjavík as well. The whole city gets covered in beautiful festive lights.
Reykjavík is a pedestrian-friendly city that is always trying to improve its walking and cycling infrastructure. In the area around Laugavegur, for example, you’ll find lots of pedestrianised space.
A walk around Reykjavík can be as long as you want it to be. The more time you have, the more hidden gems you’ll discover! You could easily spend a day or two walking around the city, exploring its sights at your own pace and taking in its unique vibe and scenery.
To get an idea of how to dress for your city walking tour, it’s best to look at the weather when you’re there. If you’re taking a tour on a sunny summer’s day, you’ll dress differently to those taking a tour on a cold winter’s afternoon.
There are two things that are important to consider, though. Firstly, as you’ll be walking, wear some shoes that are comfortable and practical. Then, bear in mind that Iceland’s weather can be pretty changeable. While it might be sunny right now, it could rain later on—so packing a jacket might be a clever move!
Reykjavík is a really walkable city that rewards exploration on foot. Much of it is flat, particularly around the harbour and downtown. What’s more, many of the coastal views are stunning.
Outside of the very centre, Reyjavík does become a little hilly and is quite steep in places. But overall it’s still very walkable.
Reykjavík is an incredibly walkable city. Most of the centre is quite flat, and you’ll discover most of the city’s main sights in a fairly compact area. Reykjavík’s also known for being very safe—as it’s the capital of the safest country in the world!
The only thing that might occasionally put you off walking is the weather. If it’s windy or rainy, you might prefer to take Reykjavík’s hop-on hop-off bus tour instead.
Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world and Reykjavík is its friendly and welcoming capital. The city is safe to walk around at any time of day, particularly in the centre. During the summer, it stays light very late into the evening.
If you feel unsafe at all, or you’re in danger, call the local emergency services at 112.
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll find many exciting trails within and around Reykjavík city. Here are some ideas to get you inspired:
- Öskjuhlíð. Climb through the forest to the top of the hill, where you’ll find the Perlan complex and great views over the city.
- Elliðaárdalur. It’s a valley just 10 minutes from the centre of town, with rapids, forest trails, and waterfalls.
- Úlfarsfell. Reykjavík’s local mountain is to the east of the city, offering breathtaking views over West Iceland in fine weather.
- Seltjarnarnes. Stroll around this picturesque peninsula, with its lighthouse known as Grótta.
Laugavegur is Reykjavík’s main shopping street, with many local boutiques, cafes, and bars. Most of it is pedestrianised, making it a relaxing and welcoming street to wander down. Many of the adjacent streets are pedestrianised too, including Vegamótastígur, Vatnsstígur, and parts of Skólavörðustígur.