World War Two Walking Tour in Reykjavik

Exploring Reykjavik’s WWII Past: A Well-Rounded Walking Tour

If you’re looking for an engaging way to dive into Reykjavik’s history beyond the usual sightseeing, the World War Two Walking Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past. Led by an in-character guide, this two-hour stroll takes you through key moments of WWII in Iceland, blending historic photos and videos with lively storytelling.

What really makes this experience stand out is the way it balances serious history with a lighthearted approach, making it accessible and enjoyable without feeling overly heavy. We particularly appreciate how the tour highlights not just military events, but also how the war affected Icelandic culture—think changes in what people ate, how they danced to rock and roll, and how the US military presence left a lasting imprint.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is a relatively short tour, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a quick, immersive history walk rather than an in-depth exploration. If you’re a history enthusiast or just curious about how WWII shaped modern Reykjavik, this tour offers excellent value and authentic insights—at just $40 per person.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling using period photos and videos makes history come alive.
• Focus on cultural impact—not just military facts—giving a well-rounded picture.
• Lighthearted tone keeps the experience engaging and accessible.
• Convenient meeting point at Hotel Borg, with easy access to public transport.
• Small group size (max 30) ensures personal attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Free cancellation offers flexibility in case of weather or schedule changes.

An In-Depth Review of the WWII Walking Tour in Reykjavik

An Introduction to Reykjavik’s WWII History

This tour promises a captivating two-hour journey through Reykjavik’s WWII landscape, guided by an in-character storyteller who vividly brings the past to life. You won’t just hear facts; you’ll see period photos and videos that provide a visual context, creating a strong connection between then and now. The combination of multimedia and narrative makes it easier to understand how the war reshaped the city and its people.

One of the most appealing aspects is how the guide weaves in social and cultural effects—not just military movements. For example, you’ll learn how Iceland’s diet changed during wartime, embracing different foods brought in by soldiers and new supplies. Plus, there’s a fun element: we loved the way the guide talked about young Icelanders learning to dance to Rock and Roll—a cultural shift that marked a break from more traditional ways.

A key consideration is the tour’s relatively short duration. While it offers a compact dose of history, travelers with a deep interest in WWII or looking for a longer experience might wish for more time. Still, for those who prefer a focused, well-paced overview, this is ideal.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate storytelling, enjoy visual history, and want a conversational, engaging guide. It’s especially good for history buffs or curious travelers who want to grasp how global conflicts influenced local culture.

What You’ll See and Learn: The Itinerary

Starting Point: Hotel Borg by Keahotels

The tour kicks off at the elegant Hotel Borg, right in the heart of Reykjavik. From here, the guide begins by retracing the steps of the British invasion of Iceland, a pivotal moment that shaped the island’s WWII experience.

The British and American Presence

The core of the tour is understanding how foreign military forces arrived in Iceland—initially the British, followed by the Americans. Using period photos and videos, the guide vividly illustrates the initial invasion, allowing you to compare images of Reykjavik then versus now. The contrast is striking—once a small, quiet city, now a vibrant hub with modern streets.

Key Topics Covered

• US Military Presence: Learn how the American troops established bases and what that meant for Reykjavik’s development.
• The Arctic Convoys: Discover the vital role Iceland played in Atlantic logistics, with stories of ships and sailors navigating treacherous waters.
• Changes in Diet: Hear about how wartime supplies altered traditional Icelandic cuisine, leading to new food staples.
• Cultural Shifts: The tour emphasizes how the war influenced local music, dance, and everyday life, with young Icelanders embracing Rock and Roll as a symbol of change.

Reflection Through Visuals

What sets this tour apart is the seamless integration of visual content. The guide uses historic footage and photographs to show Reykjavik during the war, contrasting it with the modern cityscape. This approach makes history tangible and helps you understand the scale of transformation.

Ending Point: Same as the Meeting Point

The walk concludes back at Hotel Borg, completing an insightful and manageable two-hour experience. The small group setting ensures everyone can ask questions and engage with the guide.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Elaine_T, who took the tour in November 2024, described it as “very informative and enjoyable,” emphasizing that the time spent was worthwhile for learning about Reykjavik’s WWII history. Her comment highlights how well the tour balances facts and entertainment, making history accessible and engaging.

Another reviewer appreciated the lighthearted tone, noting that despite covering serious topics, the guide kept the mood balanced, which is important when discussing war history.

From the practical side, travelers liked the central meeting point and the small group size, which makes for a more intimate and flexible experience. The free cancellation policy adds peace of mind, especially with unpredictable Icelandic weather.

Analyzing the Value

For just $40, this tour offers a compelling mix of history, culture, and storytelling. The inclusion of multimedia enhances understanding, and the guide’s approachable style makes it suitable for a broad audience. Compared to longer, more generic tours, this one provides a focused, rich experience that covers key moments without feeling rushed.

While it’s not a deep dive into wartime strategy or military logistics, it excels at showing how global events affected Reykjavik’s day-to-day life—an angle often overlooked in larger tours. The tour is perfect for those wanting a short, informative, and engaging introduction to WWII’s local impact.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate interactive storytelling and want to see visual comparisons of past and present Reykjavik. History enthusiasts will enjoy the detailed narratives, while casual travelers may find it a great way to gain context for the city’s modern culture.

If you’re interested in how war influences local culture and social change, this tour offers authentic insights that bring history to life in a fun and meaningful way. It’s also ideal if you prefer a smaller group to enhance the personal experience and ask questions.

Final Thoughts

The WWII Walking Tour in Reykjavik provides a well-balanced, engaging snapshot of Iceland’s wartime past. Its interactive approach, combining visual content with lively storytelling, makes it stand out among typical city tours. The limited duration and modest price make it an accessible option for many travelers.

What truly makes this experience valuable is its focus on cultural shifts—from changes in diet to musical influences—that reveal the broader impact of war on everyday life. The guide’s friendly manner and the tour’s emphasis on social history make it a memorable and educational outing.

While not exhaustive, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a concise, authentic, and visually engaging history walk. It’s particularly suited for curious travelers eager to understand Reykjavik’s transformation during a pivotal era, all within a relaxed 2-hour timeframe.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it’s designed to be engaging for a wide age range, especially those interested in history and culture.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at Hotel Borg by Keahotels, Pósthússtræti 11, in central Reykjavik.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a quick yet rundown.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll have an in-person guide who shares stories using period photos and videos, but there are no additional costs or admission fees.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the maximum group size is 30 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is transportation provided during the tour?
No, the tour is on foot, focusing on specific sites within walking distance.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked 25 days ahead, so plan early if you’re traveling in peak season.

In summary, the WWII Walking Tour in Reykjavik offers a thoughtfully curated, engaging look into how global conflict shaped this Icelandic city. Its blend of visual storytelling and cultural insights makes it a worthwhile addition to your Iceland itinerary—especially if you’re curious about the lesser-known social impacts of wartime.