Reykjavik Food Tours

Reykjavik Food Tours – Best Culinary Walks & Tastings in Iceland

Savor Authentic Icelandic Flavors with Passionate Local Guides

Book the best Reykjavik food tours and discover Iceland’s unique cuisine. Taste fresh seafood, Icelandic lamb, skyr, hot springs bread, rye ice cream and traditional delicacies on small-group walking tours through downtown Reykjavik. Fun, flavorful and insightful experiences year-round. Secure your spot on a top-rated Reykjavik food adventure today!

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Best Selling Reykjavik Food Tours

Our best-selling Reykjavik food tours hit the streets for Icelandic classics like creamy lobster soup, fermented shark bites, slow-smoked lamb, skyr desserts, and fresh rye bread baked in hot springs.

photo from Reykjavik Evening Icelandic Food
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Reykjavik Evening Icelandic Food & Drink Tour

Reykjavik’s food scene is cozy, quirky and full of surprises, and this fun evening stroll with a local guide takes you straight to the spots they love most. You’ll hit five hand-picked places – from super authentic restaurants serving classic Icelandic dishes to cozy craft beer bars pouring local brews, plus the famous street food stand everyone talks about. Along the way you’ll taste hearty lamb soup, fresh fish, homemade rye bread ice cream and more, all while hearing the bizarre story of Iceland’s beer history (it was banned until 1989!). Small group of like-minded travelers keeps it friendly and relaxed, perfect for swapping stories over drinks. The kind of night that gives you a real feel for Reykjavik’s culture and cuisine without any touristy fluff.

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5
3.5 hours
687+ bookings
$150 per person
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Reykjavik Food Lovers Tour – Traditional Icelandic Food Tastings
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Reykjavik Food Lovers Tour – Traditional Icelandic Food Tastings

Icelandic food has a reputation for being unusual, but the real flavors – hearty lamb soup, fresh fish, rye bread ice cream – are surprisingly delicious when you try them in the right spots. This small-group walking tour (max 12 people) skips the tourist traps and takes you straight to Reykjavik’s favorite eateries, from the city’s oldest restaurant to the legendary hot dog stand everyone lines up for. Along the way you’ll taste classics like tender lamb, skyr, and even fermented shark if you’re brave, while your guide shares the stories behind the dishes and why Icelanders eat what they do. Plenty of time slots fit any schedule, and the personal vibe means you can ask all the questions you want. The perfect relaxed way to discover Reykjavik’s culinary side without guessing where to go.

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4.8
3 hours
10.059+ bookings
$126 per person
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photo from Reykjavik Foodie Walk: Local Icelandic Flavors
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Reykjavik Foodie Walk: Local Icelandic Flavors & Hidden Gems

Reykjavik’s food scene mixes cozy restaurants with legendary street stands, and this small-group stroll (max 14 people) takes you straight to the spots locals love. You’ll taste real Icelandic favorites – creamy cheeses, tender lamb soup, homemade ice cream that hits different in the cold air, and even the famous hot dog stand everyone talks about. Between bites, the route passes landmarks like towering Hallgrimskirkja church, the gleaming Harpa concert hall and Parliament House, with plenty of stops for those classic photos. A friendly guide keeps it relaxed, sharing stories about the food and city without feeling like a lecture. The perfect way to eat your way through Reykjavik’s highlights in one tasty afternoon.

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5
3 hours
187.340+ bookings
$125 per person
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Unique Reykjavik Food Tours

Our Reykjavik unique food tours hunt down offbeat Icelandic bites like geothermal-baked rye bread dug from hot sand, smoked puffin strips, lamb hot dogs from the legendary Bæjarins Beztu stand, and homemade kleina donuts in hidden bakeries.

Exclusive Private Sweet Tooth Adventure – Icelandic Desserts Tour
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Exclusive Private Sweet Tooth Adventure – Icelandic Desserts Tour

Reykjavik’s cozy cafés and bakeries hide some seriously good sweet treats most visitors walk right past, and this private tour takes you straight to the best ones. You’ll taste traditional núður pastries, creamy Icelandic ice cream that hits different in the cold air, and other local delicacies that feel like a warm hug on a chilly day. Between stops, the gentle stroll lets you soak in the colorful streets and harbor views while your guide shares the stories behind the sweets and Iceland’s quirky culinary culture. It’s all yours – no big group, just your party getting undivided attention and insider tips so you can revisit favorites later. Perfect if you’ve got a sweet tooth and want Reykjavik’s dessert side without guessing where to go.

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5
2 hours
90+ bookings
$179 per person
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photo from tour Exclusive Private Vegetarian Food Tour in Reykjavik
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Exclusive Private Vegetarian Food Tour in Reykjavik

Reykjavik’s vegetarian and vegan scene is surprisingly vibrant for such a small city, and this relaxed 2.5–3 hour stroll takes you straight to the best plant-based spots locals love. You’ll wander colorful streets with a knowledgeable guide, tasting delicious meat-free Icelandic dishes – think hearty soups, fresh salads, creative vegan twists on classics and sweet treats that prove you don’t need dairy to indulge. Between bites, the guide shares stories about the city’s history, architecture and hidden gems most visitors walk right past. About 2.5 km of easy walking, so comfy shoes and weather-appropriate layers are all you need. The perfect way to eat your way through Reykjavik’s greener side while feeling the city’s quirky charm.

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4.7
3 hours
457+ bookings
$206 per person
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Private Food Walking Tour in Reykjavik – Custom Icelandic Tastings
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Private Food Walking Tour in Reykjavik – Custom Icelandic Tastings

Reykjavik’s food scene goes way beyond those famous hot dogs, and this private walking tour dives into the real Icelandic flavors most visitors miss. You’ll wander the charming old city center from restaurant to restaurant, tasting unique delicacies like creamy lamb soup, fresh fish, rye bread ice cream – and yes, even the infamous fermented shark if you’re brave. Your local guide shares stories about Iceland’s history, culture and quirky culinary traditions along the way, plus insider tips for the rest of your stay. No big group, just your party getting personal attention and the kind of authentic bites that make Reykjavik feel like home by the end. Perfect for curious eaters who want the full Icelandic taste experience.

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4.8
3 hours
855+ bookings
$248 per person
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Reykjavik Street Food Walking Tour – Local Icelandic Eats
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Reykjavik Street Food Walking Tour – Local Icelandic Eats

Reykjavik’s street food scene is cozy and full of local gems, and this small-group tour from family-run CityWalk (since 2014) takes you straight to the best ones without the big crowds. The groups stay smaller than other food tours, the restaurants are hand-picked for real flavor, and the full-time guides (some here since the start) know every story behind the bites. You’ll wander past major landmarks like Hallgrimskirkja and Harpa while tasting a great variety of Icelandic classics – think hearty soups, fresh seafood, quirky snacks and sweets that leave you happily full. History, architecture and local tidbits come naturally as you walk, all wrapped in that genuine Icelandic warmth. The kind of mouthwatering Reykjavik experience that sends you home in the best kind of food coma.

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5
3 hours
131+ bookings
$120 per person
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Reykjavík Teppanyaki Experience: 7-Course Menu with Live Fire Show

Reykjavík’s only teppanyaki restaurant sits in a sleek glass building just 200 m from historic Höfði house, close enough to the ocean for northern lights views from the nearby lighthouse in winter. Your evening starts with a sake cocktail (or similar) as the chef ignites a volcanic flame show right at your table, crafting a 7-course menu from Iceland’s finest: beef carpaccio, tempura langoustine in lava sauce, Japanese rice with fresh veggies, arctic charr in teriyaki, free-range lamb with pepper sauce, and blueberry skýr yogurt for dessert. The chef’s skill turns dinner into theater, bending fire to grill premium local ingredients while you watch every sizzle. Intimate, exciting and the perfect taste of Iceland’s “land of ice and fire” in one unforgettable meal.

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4.1
1.3 hours
500+ bookings
$102 per person
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Wake Up Reykjavik Food Tour – Local Icelandic Bites & Stories
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Wake Up Reykjavik Food Tour – Local Icelandic Bites & Stories

Reykjavik’s food scene is cozy, quirky and full of surprises, and the Wake Up Reykjavik Food Walk – one of the top Reykjavik Food Tours – shows you why locals love it so much. Since 2014, this team of Icelandic foodies has been leading small groups to their favorite spots, tasting everything from creamy lamb soup and fresh fish to homemade rye bread ice cream and the famous hot dog stand. Along the way you’ll hear real stories about Iceland’s culinary history, why certain dishes stuck around, and how the island’s isolation shaped what people eat. The guides keep it fun and relaxed, mixing bites with hidden gems most visitors miss. It’s been called the #1 food tour in the world for a reason – you leave full, happy, and feeling like you’ve actually experienced Reykjavik like a local. Perfect if you want culture, connection and great food in one unforgettable afternoon.

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5
3 hours
172.037+ bookings
$144 per person
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Reykjavik Drinking Tours

Our Reykjavik drinking tours hit craft beer halls for Icelandic IPAs and stouts, cozy bars pouring Brennivín aquavit and local vodkas, plus cocktail spots mixing Nordic gins with foraged herbs.

Exclusive Gin Distillery Tour Led by the Master Distiller
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Exclusive Gin Distillery Tour Led by the Master Distiller

Gin has been the drink of kings, movie stars and everyday folks for almost 800 years – and right now it’s more popular than ever. Thoran Distillery, tucked in Reykjavik’s old harbor district, opens its doors for an intimate look at how this timeless spirit is made. You’ll step inside the working distillery with the master distiller, learn about the carefully chosen botanicals that give each gin its character, see the stills in action, and finish with a relaxed tasting of their smooth Marberg gin. Small, personal and full of passion – the perfect way to understand why gin feels magical in a glass, straight from the people crafting it in Iceland’s cool capital.

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4.9
1.3 hours
269+ bookings
$35 per person
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Flóki Whisky Distillery Tour & Tasting in Reykjavík
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Flóki Whisky Distillery Tour & Tasting in Reykjavík

Iceland making whisky feels like a bold move for a country known for volcanoes and glaciers, but Flóki – the island’s first and only whisky distillery – pulls it off beautifully. This small-group tour keeps it intimate so you can ask all the questions you want while going behind the scenes to see how they turn local barley and pure spring water into smooth single malt. Your guide walks you through the whole process – malting, fermentation, distillation in copper stills – in a way that’s interesting even if you’re new to whisky. The real fun is the tasting: generous samples of their Flóki whisky at different ages, plus their gin and traditional Brennivín for contrast. Several start times make it easy to fit in, and the whole thing feels like a cozy chat with passionate locals rather than a stuffy lecture. Perfect alternative sightseeing for spirits lovers who want something uniquely Icelandic.

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5
1.15 hours
3.900+ bookings
$41 per person
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Iceland Craft Beer & Brewery Tour – Reykjavík Tastings

Iceland’s craft beer scene started small but packs big flavor, and Gæðingur in Kópavogur is one of the pioneers that kicked it off. This relaxed tour takes you inside the brewery for a look at how they turn local water and barley into those crisp, creative beers Iceland is getting known for. You’ll hear the story of how craft brewing took off here (it wasn’t always easy), watch the process up close, then sit down for tastings of the fresh brews you just saw being made. Small group (max 14) keeps it intimate, transport from Reykjavik is included so you can sip without worrying about the drive. The perfect laid-back way to dive into Iceland’s beer culture without the big crowds.

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4.7
1 hours
57+ bookings
$41 per person
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Party & Get Tipsy Like a Viking in Reykjavik

Reykjavik’s nightlife feels cozy and full of character, and this fun pub crawl takes you straight to the locals’ favorite spots while mixing in great drinks, food and stories. Your guide leads the way through a handful of hand-picked bars, pouring Icelandic craft beers and sharing wild Viking tales plus quirky folklore that make Iceland feel alive. Between sips you’ll taste authentic bites – hearty lamb, fresh fish or whatever seasonal treat fits the mood – keeping everyone fueled and happy. The group stays friendly and relaxed, perfect for chatting with new people while discovering why Reykjavik’s bar scene has that special Nordic charm. The kind of evening that turns good beers and old legends into memories you’ll laugh about for years.

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5
4 hours
42+ bookings
$173 per person
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Reykjavik Beer & Booze Tour – Local Bars & Icelandic Drinks
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Reykjavik Beer & Booze Tour – Local Bars & Icelandic Drinks

Reykjavik’s bar scene is cozy and full of surprises, and this small-group pub crawl dives right in with a local guide who knows where the good pours are. You’ll hit three hand-picked spots tasting a range of Icelandic craft beers – crisp lagers, bold IPAs, maybe a smoked stout – or swap for local spirits and snaps if beer isn’t your thing. Between sips, the guide shares the wild story of Iceland’s beer history, from Viking mead days to the 1989 end of prohibition that changed everything. The intimate group means real chats, new friends, and plenty of insider tips for the rest of your stay – best hidden bars, late-night eats, or how to navigate the colorful city center without getting lost. Fun, relaxed and the perfect way to feel Reykjavik’s nightlife like a local.

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4.9
2.3 hours
195+ bookings
$109 per person
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Reykjavik Eimverk Distillery Guided Tour with Tasting
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Reykjavik Eimverk Distillery Guided Tour with Tasting

Iceland’s craft spirits are small but impressive, and this intimate tour at Eimverk – a highlight on many Reykjavik Food Tours – dives into the country’s first whiskey, award-winning Vor gin and Viti Brennivín. Start with a welcome drink and the surprising story of whiskey’s return to Iceland. Questions welcome throughout. Taste the lineup while the guide explains production from local barley to bottle. Halfway, step into the actual distillery for malting, fermentation and distillation views (great photos). Back in the tasting room, more pours with fun stories and mingling. Relaxed, informative and straight from the makers.

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4.9
1.15 hours
3.406+ bookings
$41 per person
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Why Reykjavik is a Must-Visit Destination

Reykjavik feels like a small coastal town that somehow packs world-class food, quirky street art, and geothermal warmth into colorful streets hugging the North Atlantic. Fresh cod pulled in that morning, slow-fermented shark with a shot of brennivín, creamy skyr straight from the dairy, and lamb soup that steams up the window of a tiny café while snow falls outside. Hot dogs from the legendary Bæjarins Beztu stand, rye bread baked underground by hot springs, and craft beers poured in old fishing warehouses turned breweries. With Reykjavik Food Tours, you'll eat your way from hidden bakeries to harbor smokehouses, taste Iceland's purest ingredients steps from the sea, and leave understanding why this little capital has one of the most exciting food scenes on the planet.

Icelandic Lamb & Seafood

Savor slow-roasted free-range lamb that's sweeter than anywhere else, pair it with just-caught Arctic char or cod pulled from the cold Atlantic that morning.

Street Food & Hot Dogs

Join the queue at Bæjarins Beztu for the famous hot dog with everything—raw and crispy onions, ketchup, mustard, and remoulade—eaten by locals since 1937.

Skyr, Rye Bread & Ferments

Taste creamy skyr with blueberries, dig into dense rye bread steamed in geothermal ground for 24 hours, and brave a tiny bite of hákarl if you're feeling bold.

Craft Beer & Local Spirits

Sip small-batch Icelandic gin infused with birch and kelp, try hearty stouts from harbor breweries, or warm up with brennivín—caraway-spiced aquavit that hits just right on a chilly evening.

Meet the Team of Reykjavik Food Tours

our team in Reykjavík

Our expert team has been helping navigate and book Reykjavik food tours and activities for tourists from all over the world for over a decade, ensuring you have a hassle-free trip with everything booked in advance.

With deep knowledge of Icelandic cuisine and Reykjavik’s culinary scene, partnerships with the best local restaurants and operators, and a passion for creating unforgettable experiences, we're committed to making your Reykjavik food adventure truly extraordinary. From your first inquiry to your last tasting, we're here to support you every step of the way.

Award-Winning Culinary & Cultural Experience

Reykjavik Food Tours is recognized by leading travel platforms worldwide

Icelandic Gastronomy Excellence Award

2023

Reykjavik Foodie Choice Award

2024

Best Reykjavik Food Tour Operator

2024

Nordic Sustainable Dining Award

2024

Icelandic Heritage Flavors Verified Excellence

2023

Yes, generous food tastings are fully included in the price of Reykjavik food tours—all the dishes, samples, and drinks you try at each stop are covered, typically amounting to the equivalent of a hearty lunch or light dinner.

On a standard 3-hour walking tour in 2025, you visit 5–7 local spots (classic restaurants, hidden gems, food trucks, or markets) and enjoy 10–13 authentic Icelandic tastings such as fresh seafood (arctic char, cod, or plokkfiskur), lamb soup or smoked lamb, skyr with berries, rye bread ice cream, kleinur doughnuts, hot dogs from Bæjarins Beztu, fermented shark (optional, with a chaser), and often craft beer or Icelandic spirits pairings. Portions are designed to fill you up—no need for lunch beforehand, though you'll have room for dinner later. Water and non-alcoholic options are always available, and guides accommodate dietary needs (vegetarian, gluten-free, allergies) with advance notice.

The focus is on quality local ingredients and stories behind the food, making it excellent value compared to eating out individually in pricey Reykjavik.

You can book highly rated Reykjavik food walking tours (with all tastings included, expert local guides, and small groups) at https://reykjavikfood.tours/.

A typical Reykjavik food walking tour has 5–7 stops, where you enjoy generous tastings at a mix of classic restaurants, hidden local gems, food trucks, markets, or specialty shops.

This format (common on 3-hour tours in 2025) allows 10–13 different Icelandic dishes and drinks without rushing—enough variety to cover seafood, lamb, dairy, sweets, and even quirky items like fermented shark or hot dogs. The exact number varies slightly by operator: some lean toward 5 for a more relaxed pace with larger portions, while others hit 7 for broader sampling. Small-group tours keep it intimate, with time for stories about Icelandic cuisine and culture at each spot.

You can book highly rated Reykjavik food walking tours (5–7 stops with all tastings included and expert local guides) at Reykjavik food tour.

Yes, most classic Reykjavik food walking tours include a tasting of fermented shark (hákarl)—it's considered a traditional Icelandic "challenge" food and a fun cultural highlight on many itineraries in 2025.

The small cube of cured Greenland shark is usually served with a shot of brennivín (Icelandic aquavit) as a chaser to cut the strong ammonia flavor—guides explain the historical Viking preservation method and encourage trying it (but never force it). It's typically one optional or small-bite stop among 10–13 tastings, so even if you're hesitant, the rest of the tour (fresh seafood, lamb soup, skyr, hot dogs, rye bread ice cream) is delicious and approachable. Vegetarian/vegan tours skip it entirely, and most operators accommodate if you prefer to pass.

It's a memorable "love it or hate it" moment that many participants laugh about later—perfect for checking off an authentic Icelandic experience.

You can book highly rated Reykjavik food walking tours (with traditional tastings including optional fermented shark, all food included, and small groups) at https://reykjavikfood.tours/.

On a typical Reykjavik food walking tour, you try a wide variety of authentic Icelandic foods—usually 10–13 generous tastings across 5–7 stops that add up to a full meal.

Common traditional items included in 2025 tours:

  • Lamb soup (kjötsúpa) or smoked/hanged lamb (hangikjöt) – hearty, flavorful classics using free-range Icelandic lamb.
  • Fresh seafood – arctic char, cod, haddock, or fish stew (plokkfiskur), often straight-from-the-boat fresh.
  • Icelandic hot dog (pylsur) from the famous Bæjarins Beztu stand – made with lamb, pork, and beef, topped with raw/crispy onions, ketchup, sweet mustard, and remoulade.
  • Skyr – thick, protein-rich yogurt-like dairy, served with berries or cream.
  • Rye bread – dark geothermal-baked rúgbrauð, sometimes as ice cream (a surprisingly delicious sweet version).
  • Fermented shark (hákarl) – the infamous cured Greenland shark cube (optional, with brennivín chaser to wash down the strong taste).
  • Kleinur or other Icelandic pastries/doughnuts.
  • Local cheeses, cured meats, or dried fish (harðfiskur) with butter.

Many tours also pair with Icelandic drinks like craft beer or brennivín ("Black Death" schnapps). Vegetarian/gluten-free alternatives are available on request.

You can book a highly rated Reykjavik food walking tour (with all these traditional tastings included and expert local guides) at Reykjavik food tour.

Yes, the famous Icelandic hot dog from Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur ("the best hot dog stand in town") is included on nearly all classic Reykjavik food walking tours—it's a beloved national staple and one of the most popular stops.

You get the full traditional experience: a hot dog made with lamb, pork, and beef, topped with raw onions, crispy fried onions, ketchup, sweet brown mustard, and remoulade—all for the iconic "one with everything" (með öllu). Guides share the history (open since 1937, loved by locals and celebrities like Bill Clinton), and the generous portion fits perfectly among the other 10–13 tastings. It's approachable, affordable in real life (~ISK 650), and a crowd favorite—even for those hesitant about more adventurous items like fermented shark.

You can book a highly rated Reykjavik food walking tour (with the famous Bæjarins Beztu hot dog and all other tastings included) at https://reykjavikfood.tours/.

Yes, vegetarians can absolutely join Reykjavik food tours—most operators offer excellent vegetarian alternatives and can accommodate the diet with advance notice (usually requested at booking).

On a standard tour, meat-heavy items like lamb soup, smoked lamb, or hot dogs are swapped for hearty vegetarian options such as mushroom or vegetable soup, plant-based versions of traditional dishes, extra seafood (if pesco-vegetarian), skyr with berries, rye bread variations, cheeses, and Icelandic vegetables or salads. Classic stops like Bæjarins Beztu can provide a meat-free hot dog or skip for more veggie-focused tastings elsewhere. Fermented shark is always optional and easy to pass on. The tour still includes 10–13 generous samples that add up to a full meal, keeping the experience varied and satisfying.

Vegan options are more limited (due to heavy dairy like skyr and cheese in Icelandic cuisine) but possible on some tours with prior arrangement—confirm directly when booking.

You can book highly rated Reykjavik food walking tours (with vegetarian-friendly tastings included and dietary accommodations on request) at Reykjavik food tour.

A typical Reykjavik food walking tour involves 2–3 km (1.2–1.9 miles) of easy walking over 3 hours, spread out with frequent stops for tastings—it's a relaxed stroll rather than a strenuous hike.

The route covers downtown Reykjavik's compact center (mostly flat sidewalks along Laugavegur, harbor area, and side streets), with short distances between 5–7 stops (usually 5–10 minutes walking at a leisurely pace). There's plenty of time to sit or stand while eating and listening to the guide, so it feels more like a social wander than exercise. The tour is suitable for most fitness levels, including families and seniors—guides adjust for mobility needs, and breaks are built in.

Wear comfortable shoes (cobblestones and possible light rain/snow), but no special gear is required.

You can book highly rated Reykjavik food walking tours (with moderate easy walking, all tastings included, and small groups) at https://reykjavikfood.tours/.

The morning food tour (usually starting 11 AM–12 PM) is the best choice for most visitors to Reykjavik—it offers a more relaxed pace, smaller groups, better availability, and a natural progression from lighter breakfast-style tastings to heartier lunch dishes.

Morning tours feel less rushed, with enthusiastic guides and fresher ingredients at stops (e.g., bakeries, markets, fish shops). You’ll often end around 2–3 PM full enough to skip a big lunch, leaving evenings free for dinner or Northern Lights chasing. In 2025 reviews, many prefer mornings for comfortable weather (cooler, less wind/rain chance early) and easier photography in natural daylight.

Evening tours (typically 4–7 PM or later) are more limited in Reykjavik—some operators offer them seasonally with a focus on cozy soups, happy-hour drinks, or holiday lights, but they’re rarer and can feel heavier with richer dishes after a full day. They suit those wanting a pre-dinner vibe or pairing with nightlife, but mornings remain the top recommendation for the classic experience.

Book whichever fits your schedule—both include the same core tastings (hot dogs, lamb soup, skyr, etc.), but morning slots fill faster in peak season.

You can book highly rated Reykjavik food walking tours (morning or evening options with all tastings included and small groups) at Reykjavik food tour.

Yes, it is highly recommended to book Reykjavik food tours in advance—popular small-group tours (especially morning slots) often sell out days or weeks ahead during peak seasons (May–September and December–January holidays) in 2025.

Reykjavik's food walking tours are capped at 10–16 people for an intimate experience, and high demand from cruise passengers, summer tourists, and Northern Lights visitors means last-minute spots are rare (walk-ups occasionally possible on quiet weekdays but risky). Booking 1–4 weeks early secures your preferred time/date, accommodates dietary needs (vegetarian/gluten-free common requests), and avoids disappointment—many 2025 reviews mention regretting not reserving sooner. Off-season (October–April excluding holidays) offers more flexibility with same-week availability.

You can book highly rated Reykjavik food walking tours (all tastings included, small groups, and easy online reservation) at Reykjavik food tour.

Yes, a private food tour in Reykjavik is worth it if you want a fully customized, more intimate experience—especially for couples, families with dietary needs, food enthusiasts, or those preferring no strangers in the group.

Compared to standard small-group tours (usually 8–12 people), private tours give you a dedicated local guide just for your party, allowing personalized pacing (linger longer at favorite stops like Bæjarins Beztu hot dogs or skyr tastings), tailored food choices (easier deep dives into seafood, lamb, or Icelandic craft beer), and flexible start times or routes (e.g., adding a hidden bakery or avoiding fermented shark). In 2025, private options often include the same 10–13 generous tastings (enough for a meal) but with more one-on-one stories about Icelandic culinary history and culture—visitors frequently praise the "VIP feel" and ability to ask endless questions.

The main trade-off is cost: private tours run €300–600+ total (or €100–200 pp depending on group size) vs €80–120 pp for shared small-group tours. If you're on a budget, happy sharing with others, or just want the core classics, a regular small-group tour delivers excellent value and is the most popular choice.

Verdict: Go private if privacy, customization, or special requests matter most—it's a splurge that elevates the experience. Otherwise, small-group is plenty rewarding.

You can book either private or small-group Reykjavik food walking tours (all tastings included, expert guides, and dietary accommodations) at Reykjavik food tour.

Yes, a food tour is an excellent activity on your arrival day in Reykjavik—it's a relaxed, engaging way to beat jet lag, dive straight into Icelandic culture, and solve the "what/where to eat" question after a long flight.

Most tours start around 11 AM–12 PM (morning slots), giving you time to land (early flights from Europe/US often arrive 6–8 AM), clear customs, transfer to your hotel (20–40 minutes from KEF airport), and freshen up before meeting the group downtown. The 3-hour walking pace is gentle (2–3 km total), with plenty of sitting/standing during generous tastings that add up to a satisfying meal—no heavy exertion when you're tired. You'll sample local classics like lamb soup, hot dogs, skyr, and seafood while learning fun stories, helping you feel oriented and energized rather than overwhelmed.

Many 2025 visitors specifically choose arrival day for this reason—reviews call it a "perfect soft landing" and "best intro to Iceland." Just avoid evening tours if arriving late, and book a central meeting point or private option if short on time.

Non-alcoholic drinks like water, coffee, tea, or soft drinks are usually included at stops on Reykjavik food tours, but alcoholic drinks (such as Icelandic beer pairings or brennivín shots) are typically pay-extra or limited to one complimentary tasting if part of the itinerary.

Most standard 3-hour walking tours in 2025 focus on food (10–13 generous tastings adding up to a meal) with basic beverages provided—e.g., water with meals, mint tea, or coffee at bakery stops. Some tours include a small alcoholic sample (like brennivín with fermented shark or a craft beer at one venue) as a cultural highlight, especially on premium or themed routes. Full beer flights, cocktails, or multiple drinks are not standard and cost extra (~ISK 1,000–2,000 each if ordered). Guides can recommend great spots for post-tour drinks, and dietary preferences (non-alcoholic only) are easily accommodated.

You can book highly rated Reykjavik food walking tours (with included tastings and basic drinks, optional alcohol upgrades noted) at Reykjavik food tour.

A typical Reykjavik food walking tour lasts 3 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy 5–7 stops and 10–13 generous tastings without feeling rushed.

This standard duration in 2025 includes easy walking (2–3 km total on flat downtown streets), sitting/standing during samples, and guide stories about Icelandic cuisine and culture. Tours usually start late morning (11 AM–12 PM) or early afternoon, ending around 2–3 PM or later—perfect as a hearty lunch replacement. Some premium or themed tours extend to 3.5–4 hours for extra stops or pairings.

Yes, kids of all ages are allowed and welcome on most Reykjavik food walking tours—they're very family-friendly, with no minimum age restrictions on standard tours.

Children join the same relaxed 3-hour walk (easy 2–3 km downtown) and enjoy kid-appropriate portions of the 10–13 tastings—hot dogs, skyr with berries, rye bread ice cream, pastries, and milder seafood are big hits, while adventurous items like fermented shark are always optional (guides handle it sensitively). Many operators offer discounted child rates (often 50% off for ages 6–12, free or reduced for under 6), and strollers are manageable on the flat sidewalks. Vegetarian/gluten-free swaps work for picky eaters too.

Families consistently rate it highly as a fun, educational intro to Icelandic food—perfect for keeping kids engaged with stories and samples.

The best seasons for Reykjavik food tours are summer (June–August) and early autumn (September), when mild weather (10–15°C / 50–59°F), long daylight hours, and peak fresh ingredients make outdoor walking and tastings most enjoyable.

Summer brings the freshest seafood (cod, arctic char straight from boats), abundant berries for skyr desserts, vibrant farmers markets, and lively street food scenes—tours feel energetic with more outdoor seating options and frequent sunny days for comfortable strolling. September adds harvest flavors (lamb, root vegetables) with fewer crowds and golden light, while still mild enough for easy walking.

Winter (December–March) is great for cozy indoor-focused tours highlighting hearty soups, hot chocolate, and holiday treats (especially around Christmas markets), but colder weather (0–5°C / 32–41°F, possible snow/rain) and shorter days make it less ideal for walking. Spring (April–May) is variable but improving, with emerging fresh produce.

Overall, summer offers the broadest variety and best conditions—book early as slots fill fast.

You can book highly rated Reykjavik food walking tours (all tastings included, small groups, and seasonal highlights) at https://reykjavikfood.tours/.

Dress in comfortable, weatherproof layersReykjavik's climate is unpredictable year-round, with frequent wind, light rain, or sudden sun, even in summer (temps 5–15°C / 41–59°F most of the year).

Recommended outfit for a 3-hour walking food tour in 2025:

  • Water-resistant jacket (light rain shell or softshell—essential for drizzle or wind; hood helpful).
  • Moisture-wicking base layers (long-sleeve shirt or t-shirt + mid-layer fleece/sweater for warmth).
  • Comfortable pants (jeans, hiking pants, or leggings—avoid shorts unless summer and sunny).
  • Waterproof or sturdy walking shoes (sneakers or low hiking boots with good grip—sidewalks can be wet/slippery; no flip-flops or heels).
  • Warm accessories (hat/beanie, scarf/buff, thin gloves—wind chill makes it feel colder, especially near the harbor).
  • Small backpack or cross-body bag (for phone, wallet, water bottle—hands-free for eating and photos).
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen (UV is strong on clear days, even when cool).

Layers are key: you’ll walk 2–3 km at an easy pace with indoor stops for tastings, so you can peel off/add as needed. Tours run rain or shine, and guides often carry extras like umbrellas.

Yes, Reykjavik food walking tours are excellent for solo travelers—they're one of the best ways to meet fellow visitors, chat with a knowledgeable local guide, and enjoy Icelandic cuisine without feeling awkward dining alone.

Small-group tours (typically 8–12 people) create a friendly, social atmosphere where conversation flows naturally over shared tastings—many solos in 2025 reviews describe making instant friends, swapping travel tips, and even continuing to explore together afterward. Guides are welcoming and inclusive, often facilitating introductions, and the focus on food (10–13 samples like hot dogs, lamb soup, skyr, and optional fermented shark) keeps things light and fun. No one feels out of place going solo; in fact, a large portion of participants are independent travelers.

Private tours are available if you prefer complete solitude with a personal guide, but most solos happily join groups for the camaraderie and value.

You can book a highly rated small-group Reykjavik food walking tour (all tastings included, perfect for solos with a social vibe) at Reykjavik food tour.