Reykjavik: World War II Walking tour around the city centre

Reykjavik: World War II Walking Tour Around the City Centre — A Detailed Look

If you’re curious about Reykjavik’s lesser-known past during World War II, this walking tour offers a compelling mix of history, culture, and local stories. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll walk through the city’s core, visiting significant sites like the Old Harbour and the German Residence, while also learning about how the war changed Iceland socially and culturally. With a friendly, engaging guide and a focus on authentic Reykjavik spots, this experience earns a solid 4.8 out of 5 from travelers.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its storytelling approach. Using period photographs and videos, guides help you visualize Reykjavik in the 1940s, bringing history to life. Plus, they include lesser-known local secrets—hidden street corners and side streets—adding a unique touch that bigger, more commercial tours might overlook. That said, it’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a must, and the weather can be unpredictable.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, those interested in WWII, and anyone keen to see Reykjavik from a different perspective. However, because of the subject matter, it’s best suited for travelers over 10 years old, especially if you’re traveling with children.

Key Points

• History with context: It’s not just about military movements but also how WWII impacted Iceland’s society and culture.
• Authentic sites: Visit the exact landing spot of the British invasion and see iconic buildings like the German Residence.
• Engaging storytelling: Guides use period photos and videos to bring Reykjavik’s WWII history alive.
• Local insights: Discover hidden corners and lesser-known facts about the city’s wartime past.
• Great value: For $40, the two-hour tour offers a deep dive into a fascinating chapter of Reykjavik’s history.
• Accessibility: Suitable for most, including wheelchair users, with most of the tour on flat terrain.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins outside the Hotel Borg in Austurvollur Square, the heart of Reykjavik’s political and cultural hub. From there, your guide will lead you to the Old Harbour—an area of particular significance as the British landing site in May 1940. Here, you’ll actually stand on the same wharf where British troops arrived, a moment made vivid by the tour’s use of period photographs and videos. Imagine soldiers disembarking, with the modern harbor busy in the background. It’s a powerful visual and historical connection.

Walking from the harbor, you’ll follow the route the soldiers took into the city’s center. This isn’t just a map tour but a narrative journey through Reykjavik’s streets—many of which haven’t changed much since the 1940s. Your guide will point out key buildings, like the German Residence, and explain their roles during the war. The German Residence, for example, holds its own story—a symbol of Iceland’s complex wartime relationships.

Throughout, the focus is on blending military history with social changes. For instance, the American presence here, which grew as the war progressed, altered Icelandic society profoundly—from the types of food available to the music newcomers brought. This gives a full picture of how wartime upheaval shaped modern Reykjavik.

The tour also covers lesser-known aspects, such as social interactions and local reactions, which the guides share with enthusiasm and insight. Most visitors report that the guides, like Lucky and others, are friendly, knowledgeable, and skilled at making the history engaging. One reviewer mentioned Lucky’s mix of facts and humor, which kept the tour lively despite the serious subject matter.

Highlights of the Experience

The Old Harbour: The exact site of the British landing offers a tangible connection to history. It’s a visual anchor point, where you see the bustling modern port and imagine the moment of arrival.

Reykjavik Old Town: Walking through the historic streets, you’ll see how the city was influenced by wartime presence. The guides highlight architectural and urban changes, alongside stories from the era.

The German Residence: A key building with a story that reflects Iceland’s wartime diplomacy and social shifts. It’s a quiet, contemplative spot that adds depth to the tour.

The Value of the Tour

At $40 per person, this two-hour experience offers a rich, focused look at a lesser-known part of Reykjavik’s wartime history. Considering the depth of storytelling, the use of visual aids, and the inclusion of hidden local spots, most travelers will find this tour to be an excellent value. It’s especially great for those who enjoy walking tours that combine history with authentic city exploration.

Guide quality is a standout, with reviews praising guides like Lucky for their friendliness, deep knowledge, and humor. This personal touch makes the experience memorable beyond just facts. Plus, the tour’s format—walking, mostly flat terrain, and wheelchair accessibility—means it’s suitable for most travelers.

Practical Details

The tour lasts about two hours, starting outside Hotel Borg in Austurvollur Square. Check availability for specific start times, and remember to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing—rain gear is recommended, even in summer, as Iceland’s weather can change rapidly.

The activity is flexible with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility in planning your Iceland itinerary. It’s a small group environment, fostering an intimate, personalized experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for history aficionados wanting a focused look at WWII in Iceland, as well as travelers interested in the social, cultural, and urban changes brought by wartime. It suits those who appreciate storytelling, visual aids, and authentic city exploration. The price makes it accessible without sacrificing quality, and the guide’s enthusiasm adds a special touch.

Because it’s not suitable for children under 10, families with young kids might want to consider private options with adjusted content. The flat terrain and short duration make it manageable even for those with limited mobility.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately two hours, giving enough time to explore key sites and hear detailed stories without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside the Hotel Borg in Austurvollur Square and concludes back at the same spot, making it easy to connect with other activities.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, most of the tour is on flat terrain with no stairs, and it’s wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and rain gear are recommended, as Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility for your trip planning.

Is it family-friendly?
It’s not suitable for children under 10 due to the subject matter, but private tours can be arranged with adjusted content.

Final Thoughts

If you’re visiting Reykjavik and want to understand a different side of the city’s history, this WWII walking tour offers a thoughtful, engaging experience. It’s a chance to walk through history with guides who know how to tell compelling stories while showing you authentic spots most visitors miss. The use of visual aids and the focus on social change make it more than just a military walk—it’s a cultural journey.

The affordable price point, combined with high guide quality and a small group setting, makes this tour a standout for those interested in Iceland’s wartime past. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a curious traveler, or someone who loves discovering hidden city corners, this tour will deepen your understanding of Reykjavik’s unique wartime story.

In summary, this experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy stories that blend history with local culture, appreciate personal guides, and want to see Reykjavik through a different lens. It’s a memorable way to connect with the city’s past, leaving you with stories to tell long after your trip ends.