Reykjavik: Christmas Food Tour with Tastings and Drinks

This Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour offers a wonderful peek into Iceland’s holiday traditions through its flavors and festive atmosphere. For three hours, you’ll stroll through the city’s illuminated streets, sampling beloved seasonal dishes and drinks that embody Iceland’s unique culinary culture. What makes this experience stand out is the combination of tasting authentic foods—like smoked lamb and laufabrauð—and exploring Reykjavik’s Christmas lights with a knowledgeable guide who shares stories behind each dish.

What I really appreciate about this tour is the attention to detail and cultural context. The guide, whose name I believe is Emma, brings warmth and enthusiasm to the storytelling, making the experience feel both educational and lively. Plus, visiting the charming Little Christmas Store and receiving a locally inspired gift adds a personal touch that makes the whole outing memorable.

One potential consideration is the weather—since the tour operates in all conditions, you’ll want to dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes. Also, for those avoiding alcohol, the inclusion of various drinks—such as the traditional Jólaöl and mulled wine—may or may not suit everyone, though non-alcoholic options are available.

This tour is a delightful choice for food lovers and those curious about Icelandic Christmas traditions. It offers a cozy, flavorful, and culturally enriching experience, ideal for travelers wanting to connect with Reykjavik’s festive spirit in a relaxed setting.

• Authentic Icelandic Christmas dishes like smoked lamb, laufabrauð, gravlax, and reindeer pâté.
• Festive drinks including Jólaöl and Jólaglögg warm up the holiday mood.
• Guided storytelling enhances understanding of Icelandic traditions behind each dish.
• Visit to a charming Christmas store with artisanal crafts and seasonal decorations.
• Local gift included, making the experience memorable.
• Flexible for dietary needs with prior notice, ensuring everyone can enjoy the tasting.

I love how this tour transforms a simple walk through the city into a holiday feast for the senses. Starting at the Center Hotels Plaza, the group gathers in front of the entrance, ready to explore Reykjavik’s winter charm. The meeting point’s central location makes it easy to find and convenient for most travelers staying near the city center.

The tour lasts three hours, which offers enough time to savor a variety of flavors without feeling rushed. The guide, who seems well-versed and friendly, takes you on a leisurely route through the illuminated streets, pointing out key decorations and stories that add context to the holiday atmosphere.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the diversity of tastes—ranging from savory smoked lamb to crispy laufabrauð, a traditional leaf-shaped bread fried to perfection. The inclusion of special Christmas drinks like warm Jólaglögg and malt-and-appelsín, a non-alcoholic favorite, helps set a cozy, festive tone.

The visit to the Little Christmas Store is a highlight, offering an array of seasonal decorations, artisanal crafts, and locally inspired gifts. This visit feels authentic and supports local artisans, making it more meaningful than just a typical souvenir shop.

Many reviews emphasize the engaging storytelling. One guest mentioned that the guide, Emma, made “the dishes come alive with fun facts and stories about Iceland’s Christmas traditions,” adding educational value to the tasting. Plus, the ability to tailor the tour for dietary restrictions when booking ensures that everyone can enjoy the experience comfortably.

The Food and Drinks: A Taste of Icelandic Christmas

Each tasting spot offers a new perspective on Icelandic Christmas fare. The smoked lamb is described as “robust and flavorful,” a staple that truly highlights the Icelandic palate. Laufabrauð, with its intricate patterns, provides both visual beauty and a crispy, buttery snack. The salted reindeer pâté and gravlax introduce a hint of traditional preservation methods and Nordic flavors. Pickled herring adds a tangy contrast, perfect for balancing the richness of other dishes.

The drinks complement the meal perfectly. Jólaöl, Iceland’s Christmas ale, has a malty sweetness, while the warm, spiced Jólaglögg fills your senses with cinnamon and cloves. Non-alcoholic options like malt & appelsín are available, making the tour inclusive for all preferences.

The Practicalities: Logistics and Value

The tour starts at 5 minutes’ walk from most central Reykjavik accommodations, with clear instructions to arrive slightly early. Since it doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, travelers need to plan their transportation, making it best suited for those staying within the city.

At $146 per person, the price might seem steep at first glance. However, when considering the quality of food, drinks, local guide, and a souvenir gift, the value quickly becomes apparent. It’s not just a tasting but a culture that brings to life Iceland’s Christmas traditions in a relaxed, friendly setting.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food lovers, curious travelers, and those who enjoy festive atmospheres. It’s especially suitable for couples, small groups, or families with older children who can appreciate the stories behind each dish. The tour’s intimate size and engaging guide make it a warm and personalized experience, ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—who want to taste and understand Iceland at Christmas.

Should You Book?

Definitely. If you’re visiting Reykjavik during the holiday season, this tour offers a genuine taste of Icelandic Christmas traditions. It’s a relaxed, friendly way to spend a few hours, especially if you enjoy culinary experiences and lively storytelling. Just remember to wear warm, comfortable clothes and be prepared for weather conditions—reindeer pâté will taste just as good in rain or snow.

This Christmas food tour in Reykjavik offers a warm, engaging way to connect with Iceland’s holiday traditions through its flavors and sights. The combination of authentic dishes, festive drinks, and a friendly guide creates an experience that feels both special and authentic. It’s a lovely choice for anyone wanting to embrace the holiday spirit with a cultural twist, especially for those who enjoy food and storytelling.

While the cost might seem higher than a regular walking tour, the quality of tastings, the personal stories, and the souvenir gift provide a strong sense of value. The lack of transportation included is a minor consideration but easily manageable given the central meeting point.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate culinary adventures, festive atmospheres, and cultural insights wrapped in a cozy, three-hour package. It’s a memorable way to celebrate Christmas in Reykjavik, creating warm memories that go well beyond just a meal.

• Is hotel pickup included? No, the tour starts at the designated meeting point in front of Center Hotels Plaza. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the start location.

• How long does the tour last? The experience lasts approximately three hours, making it a manageable and enjoyable addition to your day.

• Are dietary restrictions accommodated? Yes, the tour operator is happy to tailor the experience for specific dietary needs if you inform them at the time of booking.

• What should I wear? Dress warmly and wear comfortable walking shoes. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so layers and waterproof clothing are recommended.

• Are drinks included? Yes, you’ll sample a variety of festive drinks like Jólaöl, malt & appelsín, and Jólaglögg during the tour.

• Is this tour suitable for children? It’s best suited for older children who can appreciate the stories and flavors. The tour may not be ideal for very young kids.

• Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility to your travel plans.

This Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour combines delicious flavors, cultural insights, and a touch of holiday magic—making it a highlight of any winter visit to Iceland’s capital.