Weekend Reykjavik Food Tour with a stop at the Reykjavik Flea Market

A Delicious Peek into Reykjavik’s Food Scene

When it comes to capturing the essence of a city, there’s no better way than through its cuisine — and this weekend Reykjavik Food Tour offers just that. With a mix of traditional dishes, local markets, and stories from passionate guides, it promises a flavorful, authentic experience. The tour’s small-group format means plenty of personalized attention, and all tastings are included, so you can truly relax and indulge.

What really catches the eye is the visit to the Reykjavik Flea Market, a beloved local spot that showcases Icelandic foods many travelers might not otherwise encounter. Plus, the tour ends at the popular Icelandic Street Food stand with a hearty meat soup, a comforting finish to a rich day.

One thing to keep in mind: since most reviews mention the tour’s high praise, booking well in advance (about 59 days on average) is recommended — especially if you’re visiting during peak seasons. It’s best suited for those who love discovering local flavors, enjoy casual city walking, and aren’t shy about trying new foods.

Key Points

• Small group setting ensures personalized insights and a relaxed vibe.
• All tastings included make it easy to enjoy without extra planning.
• Visit iconic spots, including Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, the famous hot dog stand.
• Knowledgeable guides like Ester and Oli make stories behind the food come alive.
• Diverse food experiences, from seafood to traditional Icelandic dishes.
• Great value for a 3-hour tour that covers culture, history, and cuisine.

What to Expect from the Reykjavik Food Tour

This tour is a blend of culinary treats, cultural tidbits, and local insights, all wrapped into a manageable 3-hour walk through the heart of Reykjavik. Here’s a detailed look at what makes each stop special and practical tips to get the most from it.

The Starting Point: Ingolfur Square

The adventure kicks off at Ingolfur Square, a lively Reykjavik hub, where the group gathers about five minutes before the scheduled start. The meeting spot’s central location means it’s easily accessible by public transport or walking, which is perfect for travelers already exploring the city.

Since the tour is capped at 12 participants, expect a cozy atmosphere where your guide can answer questions and share stories in a friendly, engaging way.

First Stop: Old Reykjavik Harbor and Shellfish Soup

We begin with a tasteful introduction to Iceland’s seafood bounty at the Old Reykjavik Harbor. The highlight here is a steaming bowl of Icelandic shellfish soup, which reviewers say is an excellent way to sample local ingredients. We loved the way this dish sets the tone — fresh, light, and full of flavor, capturing the essence of Icelandic seafood.

Expect your guide to explain how seafood has been a backbone of Icelandic cuisine for generations, making this a perfect first taste to connect you with the country’s maritime culture.

Stroll Through Kolaportið — Reykjavik Flea Market

Next, the tour takes us to Kolaportið, Reykjavik’s beloved small food market inside the flea market building. Open only on weekends, it’s a treasure trove of traditional Icelandic foods, candies, and snacks. Here, you can browse stalls with dried fish, fermented shark, and other local delicacies.

One reviewer mentioned that the flea market showcased “all kinds of very traditional Icelandic foods,” which adds to the authenticity. However, it’s worth knowing that if you’re visiting outside weekend hours, this stop won’t be available, so plan accordingly.

This part of the tour is lively and colorful. You don’t just walk past — you get to see, smell, and often sample some items, giving a tangible sense of Icelandic food traditions.

The Hot Dog Tradition at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur

No Icelandic food tour is complete without a stop at the legendary Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, a hot dog stand operating since 1937. This is not just any hot dog — reviewers consistently emphasize that this is the original lamb hot dog, a local favorite.

Expect to see queues, but the experience is worth the wait. We loved the fact that it’s a chance to try something iconic and simple, but with a rich local history. Some reviews highlight that missing out on the hot dog was a disappointment, so definitely plan to indulge here if possible.

You can choose to add toppings like crispy fried onions, mustard, or ketchup, which enhance the experience. It’s an authentic bite that’s both quick and meaningful.

Exploring Icelandic Food at the Supermarket

A brief stop at a local supermarket allows a peek into Icelandic snacks, candies, and other packaged foods. Reviewers mention discovering “unique Icelandic foods,” which might include specialty chips, chocolates, or even dried fish.

This part of the tour is casual but memorable — it’s about seeing how Icelanders snack and shop, and perhaps picking up a snack to take home or enjoy later. It offers a relaxed atmosphere to chat about Iceland’s food culture with your guide.

The Grand Finale: Icelandic Street Food

The tour wraps up at Icelandic Street Food, a well-loved local spot serving “Iceland in a bowl” — a hearty meat soup. This comforting dish offers a perfect way to close your culinary journey. Reviewers describe it as filling and delicious, a true taste of Icelandic comfort food.

Expect a generous bowl, rich with tender meat, vegetables, and traditional spices. It’s a warm, satisfying finish that helps you appreciate Iceland’s culinary simplicity and focus on quality ingredients.

What’s Included and What You Should Know

The tour covers all taxes, fees, and handling charges, with food and beverages included. From seafood to hot dogs, snack samples, and the meat soup, you won’t need to worry about extra costs during the experience.

Your professional guide will share stories and insights into Icelandic culture, making the food tastings more meaningful. The tour ends in the heart of Reykjavik, making it an easy departure point for further explorations or a quick walk back to your accommodation.

Keep in mind, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan your transportation to the meeting point. Also, the tour operates in all weather conditions; it’s best to dress appropriately, especially if rain is forecast.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Reviewers agree that the guides like Ester, Oli, and Stefan are knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share Iceland’s culinary and cultural stories. Their insights bring the food to life, making the tasting more than just eating — it becomes storytelling.

The small group size (up to 12 people) means more personal interaction, and many guests appreciated the opportunity to ask questions. Several reviews mention the guides’ storytelling skills, making the tour engaging and fun.

On the downside, some reviewers noted that the walk isn’t strenuous but involves some stairs and a few uphill sections, which might be worth considering if you have mobility issues. Also, a few guests mentioned that the hot dog stand line can be long, so arriving early or being patient is advised.

The tour offers excellent value, especially considering the variety of foods and the knowledgeable guides, which makes it a worthwhile investment for those eager to get a true taste of Reykjavik.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food lovers wanting to explore local Icelandic cuisine without the hassle of planning individual tastings. It suits travelers who enjoy walking and discovering new places, as well as those curious about Iceland’s culinary traditions.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, authentic introduction to Reykjavik’s food scene — including one of its most iconic dishes — this tour hits the mark. It’s also a great choice for first-timers wanting a cultural and gastronomic overview in a friendly group setting.

Final Thoughts

This weekend Reykjavik Food Tour offers a delicious way to get to know the city beyond its landmarks. With knowledgeable guides, generous tastings, and visits to local favorites like the flea market and hot dog stand, you’ll leave with a fuller belly and a deeper appreciation for Icelandic cuisine.

While it’s not a high-energy adventure, the relaxed pace and intimate setting make it suitable for most travelers, especially those eager to explore through food. The small group size and inclusive tastings ensure a personable experience, making it feel more like a culinary chat with friends than a tour.

Value-wise, at just over $130 per person for three hours, the experience delivers a memorable taste of Reykjavik’s culinary soul — perfect for curious travelers who want both flavor and context.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately for kids too.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, covering multiple stops around the city center.

Are all tastings included?
Yes, all food and beverages are included, so you won’t need extra cash during the tour.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 59 days in advance, especially during high seasons, as the tour is popular.

Can I join if I have food allergies?
While specific details aren’t provided, the tour does accommodate some dietary needs. It’s best to inform the provider beforehand.

Where does the tour end?
It concludes at Icelandic Street Food in downtown Reykjavik, making it easy to continue exploring or head back to your accommodation.

What should I wear?
Since the tour runs in any weather, dress in layers and bring an umbrella if rain is forecasted.

This Reykjavik food tour combines cultural storytelling with local flavors, making it a top pick for anyone wanting to taste Iceland’s culinary traditions in a fun, relaxed setting. Whether you’re a foodie or simply curious about Icelandic life, it’s an experience that will leave both your stomach and your mind satisfied.