Reykjavik: The Icelandic Sweet Tooth Tour

If you’re craving a taste of Iceland’s beloved desserts and candies, this 2-hour guided walking tour in downtown Reykjavik offers a delicious peek into the country’s sweet side. For just $93 per person, you get to explore some of the city’s top sweet stores, sample traditional and innovative treats, and gain insider insights from knowledgeable guides. It’s a fantastic way to combine a culinary adventure with a relaxed stroll through the heart of Reykjavik, especially for those who love discovering local flavors beyond the usual tourist spots.

What really stands out about this tour is how it pairs delicious tastings with cultural tidbits; you’ll learn about Icelandic pastries like kleina and snúður, and uncover what makes their chocolates and candies unique. A minor consideration is that the specific treats can vary depending on the season and day, so you might not get the exact same samples every time. This tour suits foodies, families, or solo travelers who want a sweet introduction to Iceland’s culinary traditions in a friendly, small-group setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Icelandic sweets: Discover pastries, candies, and ice cream true to local flavor.
• Small group experience: Limited to 12 people, ensuring personalized attention.
• Expert guides: Guides share detailed insights about Icelandic culture and food.
• Varied stops: Multiple bakeries, specialty shops, and ice cream parlors.
• Good value: Sampling a variety of treats makes the price well worth it.
• Accessible: Wheelchair friendly with flexible cancellation policies.

An In-Depth Look at the Sweet Tooth Experience

If you’re a fan of sweets, the Reykjavik: The Icelandic Sweet Tooth Tour is a good way to spend some quality time sampling local favorites—without the hassle of figuring out where to go or what to try. The tour kicks off outside Hlöllabátar, a cozy sandwich shop facing Ingólfstorg Square, where guides typically wear a recognizable light blue jacket with “Your Friend in Reykjavik” printed on the back. Meeting here means you’re right in the center of Reykjavik’s lively core, making it an easy and convenient start.

The Itinerary and What You’ll Encounter

The tour is structured to showcase some of Reykjavik’s best spots for sweets, with a mix of tasting sessions, quick sightseeing, and shopping. Here’s how it pans out:

1. Ingólfur Square and Local Bakery
After a brief intro, you’ll head to a local bakery, Baka Baka, where the first treats are served. Here, you’ll sample traditional Icelandic pastries like kleina—those deep-fried, doughnut-like bites—and possibly snúður, a popular cinnamon roll. Guides often share stories about these treats’ origins and baking techniques, adding depth to the tasting. Reviewers mention that guides like Anna make these moments fun and engaging, sharing insights about Icelandic dessert traditions.

2. Laugavegur Shopping Street
Next, the tour takes you along Laugavegur, Reykjavik’s main shopping street. While sightseeing, your guide will point out popular spots and hidden gems, giving you context about the city’s vibe. It’s a good chance for a quick look at Reykjavik’s lively streetscape, which travelers find charming and photogenic.

3. Chocolate Stop at a Specialty Shop
Then, you’ll visit a dedicated chocolate store, where Icelandic chocolates are the star. These aren’t your ordinary chocolates—local ingredients like licorice, birch sugar, and wild berries give them a distinctive flavor profile. An Icelandic chocolatier often shares that their licorice is “sweet and mild,” which surprises many visitors expecting the harsher varieties from other countries. Reviewer Ed especially appreciated the combination of licorice and chocolate called Þristur, describing it as a “delicious combo.”

4. Ice Cream Indulgence at a Local Parlor
A highlight is the stop at Ísbúðin litla Valdís, an ice cream shop known for its creamy, Icelandic-style scoops. You might try flavors unique to Iceland, like licorice or skyr (the country’s famous dairy product). Many reviews praise the quality of the ice cream, with one comment mentioning “the creamiest and most delicious ice cream you’ll ever try.” This stop is perfect for those needing a sugar rush and a cooling break.

5. Final Stop at a Candy Shop
The tour wraps up at another well-loved candy store, where you can indulge in Icelandic candies like the iconic “Draumur” chocolate bar or the licorice-and-chocolate combination called Þristur. Don’t worry if licorice isn’t your thing—guides usually have other options for the less adventurous. Reviewers say this last stop allows for some “guilty pleasure shopping,” and some even discover new favorites to take home.

The Value of the Tour

At $93, this tour offers an impressive variety of tastings and insights for the price. Comparing what you receive—multiple locations, expert commentary, and a curated selection of Icelandic sweets—it’s a good deal. Many travelers, like Nicola who called it “good value for money,” appreciate how much they get to sample in just two hours. Plus, small groups mean you get personalized attention and the chance to ask questions about Icelandic food and culture.

Guides and Atmosphere

Throughout the reviews, the guides stand out as a major asset. Names like Ester E, Gudjon, and Matthias come up as personable, humorous, and knowledgeable. They add context to each treat, explaining its significance and how Icelandic ingredients influence flavors—like birch sugar or the mild licorice. This adds a layer of education to what might otherwise be just a snack crawl.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The tour’s meeting point outside Hlöllabátar is well-organized, with clear instructions and a comfortable waiting area. It’s wheelchair accessible, and the tour is designed to be flexible with weather, so dressing appropriately is advised, especially during Iceland’s unpredictable weather.

What You Might Miss

A potential downside for some is that treats depend on seasonal availability and timing. While this keeps the experience fresh and authentic, it means no two tours are exactly alike. Also, if you’re not a fan of licorice, it’s reassuring to know guides are prepared with alternatives.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is perfect for foodies eager to sample Icelandic sweets in a relaxed, social environment. It’s equally suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a friendly introduction to Reykjavik’s culinary scene. If you enjoy tasting and learning about local dishes—especially sweets—you’ll find this experience both fun and educational.

It’s also an excellent choice for first-time visitors looking to get a quick, authentic taste of Reykjavik’s culture without committing to a longer, more expensive tour.

The Sum Up

Reykjavik’s Sweet Tooth Tour offers an inviting, tasty exploration of Iceland’s beloved confections, combining delicious samples with insightful stories. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides ensure a friendly atmosphere where you can relax and indulge. It’s a smart way to spend a couple of hours, especially if you’re curious about Icelandic flavors or want a sweet break from sightseeing.

While treats do vary, the consistent quality, engaging guides, and overall value make it a worthwhile addition to any Reykjavik itinerary. Whether you’re a die-hard sweet tooth or simply looking for a fun, cultural experience, this tour delivers a memorable taste of Iceland.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, allowing enough time to enjoy tastings and hear stories without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start?
It begins outside Hlöllabátar, the sandwich shop facing Ingólfstorg Square, a central Reykjavik location.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for most visitors.

What should I wear?
Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended since Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, even during a short walking tour.

Will I get to try Icelandic chocolate?
Absolutely. The tour includes a visit to a specialty shop where you can sample some of the finest Icelandic chocolates, often with distinctive local flavors.

Can I expect seasonal treats?
Yes, the specific sweets and candies might change depending on the season and day, but you’ll always enjoy a variety of Icelandic favorites.

Is this tour good for kids or families?
Yes, the small group size and fun tasting stops make it suitable for families with children, especially those with a sweet tooth.

What makes this tour different from other food experiences in Reykjavik?
It focuses specifically on sweets—pastries, chocolates, ice cream, and candies—offering a focused, in-depth look at Iceland’s confectionery traditions.

How many people typically join?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 people, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.