The Reykjavik Cat Walking Tour

Rating: 5.0/5 (118 reviews)
Price: $65.02 per person
Location: Reykjavik, Iceland
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Small Group Size: Cap at 6 travelers

Introduction

If you’re a cat enthusiast or looking for a quirky way to see Reykjavik, the Reykjavik Cat Walking Tour offers an unusual blend of city sights, Icelandic folklore, and feline charm. With a small, intimate group and a knowledgeable guide, this tour takes you through some of Reykjavik’s most iconic landmarks while sharing stories about the mysterious and mythic roles cats have played in Icelandic culture.

What we love about this experience is how it combines storytelling, local lore, and adorable cats in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who want something different from traditional city tours and enjoy plenty of opportunities to meet local shop cats and furry friends at a cozy cafe. A key consideration? Since the tour is small and personal, it books up well in advance—around 51 days on average—so planning ahead is recommended.

This tour suits cat lovers, families, and curious travelers wanting a fun, laid-back introduction to Reykjavik’s streets and stories. If you enjoy animals, quirky local traditions, and charming city walks, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Unique theme blending cats and Icelandic culture
• Intimate small group keeps things personalized
• Visit iconic landmarks like Ingólfur Square and Lake Tjornin
• Includes a cozy stop at a cat cafe with drinks and pastries
• Knowledgeable guide shares stories and myths you won’t find in guidebooks
• Ideal for families, animal lovers, and those seeking a relaxed, fun experience

Detailed Review of the Reykjavik Cat Walking Tour

What Makes This Tour Special?

This walking tour stands out because it’s designed to be playful yet educational. Instead of a typical sightseeing route, it integrates local legends, city highlights, and feline encounters. You’ll appreciate how the stories about how cats came to Iceland are woven into the walk, especially given the tour’s opening stop at Ingólfur Square, where the monument marks the beginning of Iceland’s settlement. Here, your guide dives into the mythology and history of Icelandic cats, making it a meaningful start to your adventure.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Ingólfur Square

The tour kicks off at the stone pillars marking the start of Reykjavik’s settlement. The guide shares insights on the origins of Iceland’s cats, which many visitors find surprisingly fascinating. It sets the tone, blending history with folklore, and provides a glimpse into how cats have been woven into Icelandic tales for centuries. Reviewers like Alice appreciated this intro, noting that it’s an excellent way to understand the city’s story through a feline lens.

Stop 2: Lake Tjornin

Next, the group strolls to Reykjavik’s bird-filled pond, Lake Tjornin. Here, the guide paints a picture of what it might be like if a cat lived in such a setting, sparking imaginations with light humor and creativity. The calm waters and birdlife make for a peaceful pause, and the short five-minute stop gives you a chance to soak in Reykjavik’s natural beauty. Reviewers mention enjoying this scenic spot, with some noting how it’s fun to imagine the city’s cats in such tranquil settings.

Passing by Hallgrímskirkja and the Einar Jónsson Sculpture Garden

While walking past the iconic Hallgrímskirkja, the guide shares stories about its significance, adding depth to your city stroll. The final visual highlight is the Einar Jónsson Sculpture Museum, where you can appreciate his artistic depictions of Icelandic folklore. This stop is brief—about ten minutes—but adds a cultural layer, enriching your understanding of Reykjavik’s artistic history.

Stop 3: Kattakaffihúsið – The Cat Cafe

The highlight for many is the 30-minute visit to the cozy cat cafe, where you get your included hot drink and Icelandic pastry. Here, you can pet the resident cats, relax, and chat about Icelandic stories while enjoying the warmth. Reviewers like Lauren found this part “wonderful,” describing it as “a perfect blend of hot chocolate and furry friends.” The cafe’s intimate setting makes it easy to interact with the cats, some of whom are shop cats allowed to wander freely.

Stop 4: The Einar Jónsson Sculpture Garden

The tour wraps up at the sculpture garden with more storytelling and photo opportunities. The outdoor space is peaceful and offers a lovely backdrop for reflecting on the stories shared. Guests like Dylan appreciated that the guide kept the tone engaging and friendly, making this a fitting end to the walk.

What’s Included & Practical Details

• Coffee, tea, or hot cocoa with Icelandic pastries at the cafe, giving you a cozy break and a chance to connect with fellow travelers.
• The tour is mobile ticket, making it easy to access and organize.
• The small group limit of 6 ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
• Tour duration is around 2 hours, a manageable length for families and those wanting a laid-back experience.
• Start point: Ingólfur Square, right in the heart of Reykjavik.
• End point: The sculpture garden, close to public transportation options.

Accessibility & Considerations

The tour is suitable for almost everyone, including service animals. However, it’s not recommended for people with allergies to cats. Travelers should also be aware that it books well in advance, with most reservations made around 51 days ahead, so planning early is advised.

Value & Cost

At approximately $65 per person, this tour offers a great value for such a personalized, engaging experience. It’s not just about seeing the sights but about learning stories, meeting local cats, and enjoying a convivial atmosphere. The inclusion of a drink and pastry at the cafe adds to the overall value, making it a relaxed social highlight.

What the Reviews Say

Some guests, like Justine, were disappointed due to scheduling misunderstandings, highlighting the importance of punctuality and clear communication. But most reviews are glowing, with Alice and Lauren praising it as “informative and fun,” especially mentioning the hot chocolate, storytelling, and furry encounters. Many mention how the guide, particularly Bardi and Rinse, makes the experience lively and engaging, sharing stories and even personal anecdotes about their cats.

Reviewers also love how the tour combines local legends — like the story of the Yule Cat — with contemporary Reykjavik, making it both educational and entertaining. The opportunity to meet shop cats and enjoy the atmosphere of the cafe really stands out.

The Sum Up

The Reykjavik Cat Walking Tour provides a refreshing departure from traditional city tours. Its blend of local folklore, city sights, and feline companionship creates a charming, relaxed experience that’s perfect for animal lovers, families, or solo travelers seeking something memorable and lighthearted. The small-group setup ensures a personal touch, and the stories shared by guides like Bardi make the city’s history come alive in a playful way.

While it’s best to book well in advance, the tour’s charm, value—including drinks and pastries—and genuine love for cats make it a worthwhile addition to your Reykjavik itinerary. If you enjoy stories, animals, and cozy cafes, this tour is sure to leave you with a fond memory of Icelandic culture and the city’s furry residents.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly and particularly enjoyable for kids who love cats. The relaxed pace and fun stories make it a hit with younger travelers.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 2 hours, making it a short but enriching experience without feeling rushed.

Can I join if I have a cat allergy?
It’s not recommended for people with a cat allergy, as you’ll be around friendly, petting-ready cats at the cafe and possibly in shops.

Is the tour accessible for mobility-impaired travelers?
The tour is primarily on foot and involves some outdoor walking, but the stops are in central, accessible locations. It’s best to check with the provider for specific needs.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided walk, entry to the cafe, plus a hot drink and Icelandic pastry. The small group size enhances the personal feel.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, as it’s highly popular and most bookings are made about 51 days in advance. Early planning is recommended.

What’s the meeting point?
The tour begins at Ingólfur Square, right near the monument marking Iceland’s settlement.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted, making it accessible for travelers with support needs.

What makes this tour stand out from other Reykjavik activities?
The focus on cats, folklore, and city sights, combined with a cozy cafe stop, creates a playful, authentic experience you won’t find elsewhere.

In all, the Reykjavik Cat Walking Tour offers a charming, engaging, and authentic way to explore the city’s culture and character through the eyes of its beloved feline residents. Perfect for those wanting a relaxed, memorable adventure with a dash of Icelandic lore and a lot of furry fun.