Immerse yourself in Icelandic Christmas traditions on a festive walking tour through the streets of Reykjavik. Discover the 13 Santas, the Troll Grýla, and the Christmas Cat while sampling delicious Christmassy treats.
Immerse yourself in Icelandic Christmas traditions on a festive walking tour through the streets of Reykjavik. Discover the 13 Santas, the Troll Grýla, and the Christmas Cat while sampling delicious Christmassy treats.
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Hlöllabátar - Gather outside Hlöllabátar, the sandwich shop located at Austurstræti 1 in Reykjavík. Please assemble facing the square (Ingólfstorg) and the two tall stone seat-pillars, each over two meters high. Center Hotel Plaza will be on your right.
The area in front of Hlöllabátar features benches, tables, and a covered ceiling, offering a…
- Hlöllabátar - Gather outside Hlöllabátar, the sandwich shop located at Austurstræti 1 in Reykjavík. Please assemble facing the square (Ingólfstorg) and the two tall stone seat-pillars, each over two meters high. Center Hotel Plaza will be on your right.
The area in front of Hlöllabátar features benches, tables, and a covered ceiling, offering a sheltered and comfortable waiting area.
Our knowledgeable local guides typically wear a light blue jacket with “Your Friend in Reykjavik” on the back.
- Ingólfur Square - We begin by admiring the ice skating rink, holiday decorations, and Christmas market stalls at Ingólfur Square.
- Austurvollur Square - Visit the beautiful traditional Oslo Christmas tree and discuss the tradition of trees and decorations in Icelandic homes.
- Penninn Eymundsson - Books play a significant role in Icelandic Christmas traditions, so a visit to a bookstore is essential. Here, you will find some unique Icelandic Christmas books.
- Lækjartorg A - The fierce Christmas cat is a prominent figure in Icelandic Christmas folklore. We will delve into some Icelandic folklore here.
- Litla Jolabudin - The little Christmas store is open year-round, and it’s worth exploring some Icelandic Christmas ornaments. You might find some Christmas gifts for yourself here.
- 12 Tonar - Icelandic Christmas music draws inspiration from various countries, and a visit to our most cherished downtown music store is a must.
- Hallgrimskirkja - We conclude at the beautiful Hallgrímskirkja church to discuss the role of Christianity and Norse Mythology in Christmas.

- Expert fun-loving guide
- Expert fun-loving guide
- Tips
- Tips
Celebrate this festive season with Your Friend in Reykjavik on a walking expedition around the brightly lit and holiday-celebrative lanes of Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital.
In unison, we will delve into the Christmas customs of Iceland, unraveling the mystery of Iceland’s thirteen Santas, their terrifying mother - the child-eating Troll Grýla, and the…
Celebrate this festive season with Your Friend in Reykjavik on a walking expedition around the brightly lit and holiday-celebrative lanes of Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital.
In unison, we will delve into the Christmas customs of Iceland, unraveling the mystery of Iceland’s thirteen Santas, their terrifying mother - the child-eating Troll Grýla, and the dreaded Christmas Cat.
This tour appeals to all age groups and vividly encapsulates the Icelandic Yuletide traditions through thrilling narratives and folktales. Additionally, we will get to know about Iceland’s traditional festive foods and beverages, and we might even get to try a few during our journey. We begin our Christmas-themed exploration at Fógetagarðurinn, which takes us through the heart of downtown Reykjavik.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.