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Amazing!
Jon Truland
Review of Adventure-Packed 5-Hour Buggy & Lava Tunnel Tour Starting from Reykjavik
We very much enjoyed our tour with Kristjan. Looking forward to returning to Iceland to see more!
Best Food & Drink Tours in Iceland
Explore the largest selection of food and drink tours at the lowest prices guaranteed!
Best Food & Drink Tours in Iceland — Largest Selection & Cheapest Prices Guaranteed
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Savoring Food & Drink Tours in Iceland
Food and drink tours in Iceland offer more than just a meal—they’re a gateway to the country’s history, culture, and natural bounty. Icelandic cuisine is deeply rooted in its geography, with fresh seafood, lamb, and dairy products playing key roles.
Guided food tours take you to hidden gems and local hotspots, introducing you to authentic flavors and culinary traditions. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to meet locals, learn about Iceland’s sustainable farming practices, and sample unique dishes and drinks you won’t find anywhere else.
For those who prefer urban culinary adventures, Reykjavik, the capital city, has a thriving food scene. And don't forget about the iconic Icelandic hot dog, best experienced at the famous Baejarins Beztu Pylsur hot dog stand. A visit here is a must for any food enthusiast.
Icelandic cuisine is also closely tied to its fishing heritage, making seafood a highlight of many tours. You can enjoy seafood feasts in charming coastal villages like Stykkisholmur and Hofn, where you'll taste the freshest catches of the day.
Best Food & Drink Tours in Iceland
Explore some of Iceland’s top-rated culinary and drink experiences:
- Reykjavik Food Walk Tour - Savor the best Icelandic cuisine while exploring the streets of Reykjavik, where you'll sample local delicacies like lamb, skyr, and more.
- Bjorbodin Beer Spa Tour in North Iceland - Relax in the unique Bjorbodin Beer Spa in North Iceland by soaking in warm beer and enjoying a cold one straight from the tap.
- Small-Group Food Walking Tour in Reykjavik - Perfect for food enthusiasts, this small-group tour provides a deeper connection to Iceland’s culture and flavors with a tasting of lamb soup, hakarl, and more local delicacies.
- Reykjavik Beer and Schnapps Walking Tour - Sip your way through Reykjavik on this beer and schnapps walking tour, featuring tastings of Iceland’s finest brews and spirits
- Snaefellsnes Sightseeing with Dinner and Transfer from Reykjavik - Discover the stunning landscapes of the Snaefellsnes peninsula, complete with breathtaking sights and a delicious local dinner.
Popular Food to Try in Iceland
A food tour in Iceland introduces you to traditional dishes that have been perfected over centuries:
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Lamb Soup (kjotsupa): This warm and hearty dish is a staple in Icelandic homes, made with tender local lamb, root vegetables, and flavorful herbs.
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Fermented Shark (hakarl): One of Iceland’s most unique and historic delicacies, hakarl is fermented Greenland shark cured using traditional methods. While its strong aroma may challenge newcomers, it’s a must-try for adventurous eaters seeking an authentic taste of Icelandic culture.
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Icelandic Skyr: A creamy, protein-rich dairy product, skyr has been a part of Icelandic diets for over a thousand years. With its tangy flavor and smooth texture, skyr is enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or breakfast.
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Rye Bread (rugbraud): This traditional bread is naturally baked in geothermal heat, highlighting Iceland’s volcanic heritage. Often served with butter, smoked fish, or lamb, rugbraud is a must-try for those exploring Icelandic cuisine.
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Arctic Char: A local freshwater fish, Arctic char is prized for its delicate flavor and flaky texture. It’s often prepared smoked, grilled, or pan-seared.
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Icelandic Hot Dog (pylsa): Beloved by locals and visitors alike, Icelandic hot dogs are made with a unique blend of lamb, pork, and beef. It’s served with crispy onions, sweet mustard, remoulade, and ketchup.
Best Drinks to Try on Icelandic Tours
Iceland’s drink scene is as fascinating as its food:
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Craft Beers: Sample beers from top breweries like Einstok and Olvisholt, known for their unique flavors and quality ingredients.
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Reyka Vodka: Distilled using Iceland’s glacial water, it’s one of the purest vodkas in the world.
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Brennivin: Iceland’s signature schnapps, also known as “Black Death,” offer a taste of tradition with every sip.
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Icelandic Hot Chocolate: Perfect for colder days, this rich and creamy treat is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Best Places for Food & Drink Tours in Iceland
Food and drink tours are available throughout Iceland, each offering its unique flavors:
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Reykjavik: Reykjavik is the hub for Iceland’s culinary scene, offering a mix of traditional and modern cuisine. From vibrant street food markets to high-end dining experiences, the city is perfect for food and drink tours that highlight Icelandic flavors.
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Westfjords: Known for its untouched beauty, the Westfjords is a paradise for seafood lovers. The region is famous for its fresh shellfish, such as scallops and sea urchins.
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South Coast: The South Coast offers farm-to-table dining experiences and the chance to taste dishes made with ingredients grown in the region’s fertile volcanic soil. Geothermal cooking is also popular here, where natural heat is used to prepare delicious meals like rye bread and lamb.
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Akureyri and North Iceland: Akureyri and its surroundings are a treasure trove for traditional Icelandic cuisine, including fresh fish and hearty lamb dishes. The area is also home to local breweries and distilleries, making it ideal for drink-focused tours.
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Golden Circle: This iconic route combines sightseeing with unique food and drink experiences. Visitors can enjoy stops like the Fridheimar tomato farm, where you can savor fresh tomato-based dishes in a greenhouse, or sample local ice cream made from Icelandic dairy farms.
Benefits of Joining Iceland Food and Drink Tours
Booking Iceland food and drink tours offers many benefits for a more organized and stress-free holiday experience.
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Convenience: Food and drink tours are meticulously organized, allowing you to visit multiple eateries and attractions without the hassle of planning or navigating unfamiliar places. With transportation and itineraries arranged, you can focus entirely on enjoying the culinary journey.
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Cultural Insights: Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience by sharing fascinating stories about Iceland’s culinary traditions, historical food preservation methods, and local farming practices.
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Unique Experiences: Food and drink tours often include stops at hidden gems and lesser-known local favorites. From sampling geothermal-baked rye bread to tasting rare craft beers, these experiences offer a one-of-a-kind glimpse into Iceland’s culinary landscape.
Vegetarian and Allergy-Friendly Options on Food Tours in Iceland
Many food and drink tours in Iceland cater to vegetarian diets and accommodate common food allergies, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the experience. Whether you avoid meat, dairy, gluten, or have specific allergies, tour operators can be flexible and willing to customize parts of the menu to suit your needs.
It's essential to inform your tour operator of any dietary restrictions or allergies when booking so they can make the necessary arrangements. From plant-based Icelandic dishes to allergen-free alternatives, these tours ensure a safe and enjoyable culinary adventure for all participants.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best food and drink tour in Iceland?
To enjoy a guided tour of the best food and drinks in Iceland, don't miss out on the following:
1. Reykjavik Food Walking Tour - Iceland's top-rated food and drink tour highlights the country's capital, Reykjavik. This excursion runs for around three hours and includes sample food from six locations.
2. Snaefellsnes Peninsula Tour with Local Dinner - Another top-rated tour in Iceland combines sightseeing with food and drinks. The 11-hour tour lets you experience the best attractions on the Snaefellsnes peninsula and end your day with a delicious local dinner.
3. Bjorbodin Beer Spa Tour in North Iceland - For travelers who want a unique experience in North Iceland, this visit to the Bjordin Beer Spa is a must. Here, you can relax in a tub full of beer while drinking cold beer straight from the tap.
1. Reykjavik Food Walking Tour - Iceland's top-rated food and drink tour highlights the country's capital, Reykjavik. This excursion runs for around three hours and includes sample food from six locations.
2. Snaefellsnes Peninsula Tour with Local Dinner - Another top-rated tour in Iceland combines sightseeing with food and drinks. The 11-hour tour lets you experience the best attractions on the Snaefellsnes peninsula and end your day with a delicious local dinner.
3. Bjorbodin Beer Spa Tour in North Iceland - For travelers who want a unique experience in North Iceland, this visit to the Bjordin Beer Spa is a must. Here, you can relax in a tub full of beer while drinking cold beer straight from the tap.
What is the cheapest food and drink tour is Iceland?
Check out three of the most affordable food and drink tours in Iceland that you can book year-round.
1. Fontana Spa Geothermal Culinary Tour with Rye Bread Tasting - This excursion takes place at the Fontana Spa along the Golden Circle. During the tour, you will learn about the traditional way of baking using geothermal heat and taste rye bread.
2. Entry to the Magic Ice Bar and Gallery in Reykjavik - This cheap yet fun drink experience is located in Reykjavik, where you can visit a unique ice bar. It includes a complimentary welcome drink.
3. Eimverk Distillery Tour with Tastings near Reykjavik - Alternatively, if you want to taste local beverages, this affordable tour is at a distillery in Gardabaer. There, you can see firsthand the distilling process of spirits and taste them afterward.
1. Fontana Spa Geothermal Culinary Tour with Rye Bread Tasting - This excursion takes place at the Fontana Spa along the Golden Circle. During the tour, you will learn about the traditional way of baking using geothermal heat and taste rye bread.
2. Entry to the Magic Ice Bar and Gallery in Reykjavik - This cheap yet fun drink experience is located in Reykjavik, where you can visit a unique ice bar. It includes a complimentary welcome drink.
3. Eimverk Distillery Tour with Tastings near Reykjavik - Alternatively, if you want to taste local beverages, this affordable tour is at a distillery in Gardabaer. There, you can see firsthand the distilling process of spirits and taste them afterward.
Is it worth taking a food and drink tour in Iceland?
A food and drink tour in Iceland is well worth it for travelers seeking a delicious and immersive cultural experience. These tours introduce you to Iceland's culinary traditions, allowing you to savor local delicacies like lamb, seafood, and dairy products.
You'll also have the opportunity to taste unique dishes such as fermented shark and rye bread baked in geothermal springs. Additionally, you can sample Icelandic spirits like schnapps and explore the burgeoning craft beer scene.
Food and drink tours provide insight into the country's history, lifestyle, and the creative ways Icelanders harness their challenging environment to create delectable cuisine, making them a delightful addition to your Icelandic journey.
You'll also have the opportunity to taste unique dishes such as fermented shark and rye bread baked in geothermal springs. Additionally, you can sample Icelandic spirits like schnapps and explore the burgeoning craft beer scene.
Food and drink tours provide insight into the country's history, lifestyle, and the creative ways Icelanders harness their challenging environment to create delectable cuisine, making them a delightful addition to your Icelandic journey.
What's included in a food tour in Iceland?
Food & drink tours in Iceland are guided experiences that take you on a culinary journey through Icelandic cuisine, local eateries, and traditional drinks. Participants can taste and learn about the country's unique food culture in quality restaurants or visit Icelandic distilleries and breweries with an expert guide.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options available on food tours in Iceland?
Yes, some food tours in Iceland can accommodate vegetarian or vegan preferences. For example, this Private Vegetarian Walking Food Tour in Reykjavik lets you sample plant-based cuisine and desserts.
It’s recommended to inform the tour operator in advance so they can ensure suitable options are available at each stop.
It’s recommended to inform the tour operator in advance so they can ensure suitable options are available at each stop.
Do food tours accommodate food allergies or dietary restrictions?
Yes, most food tours in Iceland can accommodate dietary restrictions and food allergies. Make sure to inform the tour operator about your needs when booking to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Are there tours that allow me to savor authentic Icelandic cuisine on a local farm?
Yes, several tours in Iceland offer the unique opportunity to savor authentic Icelandic cuisine on a local farm. These tours provide a farm-to-table experience, allowing you to taste traditional dishes made from locally sourced ingredients while immersing yourself in Iceland's rural and cultural aspects.
On this 9-Hour Taste of Nature Food Tour in West Iceland, you will visit beautiful landscapes and taste the yummiest and freshest culinary delights on the farm.
On this 9-Hour Taste of Nature Food Tour in West Iceland, you will visit beautiful landscapes and taste the yummiest and freshest culinary delights on the farm.
Can I book private food & drink tours for a more personalized experience?
Yes, many tour operators offer private tours for a more personalized experience. You can inquire about these options to tailor the tour to your preferences and schedule.
This private three-hour viking walking tour with food in Reykjavik offers a personalized tour where you will have a one-hour food experience in a local restaurant to indulge in traditional Icelandic cuisine and learn about Icelandic food culture.
Enjoy this private off-the-beaten-path six-hour Akranes town tour in a luxury vehicle. Explore Akranes, unwind in the Gudlaug geothermal pool, and savor delightful local cuisine on this private tour.
This private three-hour viking walking tour with food in Reykjavik offers a personalized tour where you will have a one-hour food experience in a local restaurant to indulge in traditional Icelandic cuisine and learn about Icelandic food culture.
Enjoy this private off-the-beaten-path six-hour Akranes town tour in a luxury vehicle. Explore Akranes, unwind in the Gudlaug geothermal pool, and savor delightful local cuisine on this private tour.
Are there family-friendly food and drink tours in Iceland?
Yes, there are food tours in Iceland designed for families, offering kid-friendly options such as ice cream tastings or visits to chocolate makers. These tours ensure that children and adults alike can enjoy a memorable culinary experience.
How long does a typical food tour in Iceland last?
The duration of a food & drink tour in Iceland varies depending on the specific tour, the number of stops, and the locations visited. Generally, these tours can last between two to four hours.
Can I visit a brewery in Iceland?
Yes, this Brewery Tour in Reykjavik allows you to learn about the brewing process of Icelandic craft beers, with plenty of tastings in between. The tour of the brewery ends with a delicious dinner on-site.
Can I visit a distillery in Iceland?
Yes, this unique Eimverk Distillery Tour near Reykjavik takes you to one of the finest distilleries in Iceland. It includes tastings of locally distilled Icelandic whiskey, gin, and Iceland's signature drink, brennivin, with an expert guide who will take you through the process of how these drinks are made.
Can I bathe in beer in Iceland?
Believe it or not, yes you can! You can visit the unique Bjorbodin Beer Spa in North Iceland where you can bathe in warm, young beer and live beer yeast, with a cold drink in hand, of course. The beer spa is located near the town of Akureyri and is worth a visit if you're in the area.
What is traditional Icelandic cuisine like?
Traditional Icelandic cuisine is heavily influenced by the country's geography, climate, and available resources. It primarily consists of fish, lamb, and dairy products, with a focus on preserving food through techniques such as smoking, drying, pickling, and fermenting.
What are some traditional Icelandic dishes I should try?
Some traditional Icelandic dishes include:
1. Skyr: A thick, yogurt-like dairy product that is often enjoyed with blueberries or as a dessert with sugar and cream.
2. Hangikjot: Smoked lamb served with white sauce, potatoes, and green peas. Traditionally served during Christmas.
3. Hardfiskur: Dried stockfish, usually haddock, cod, or wolffish, often eaten as a snack or spread with butter.
4. Hakarl: Fermented shark using an age-old preserving method, considered a delicacy and an acquired taste.
5. Plokkfiskur: A fish stew made with boiled fish, potatoes, and onions in a creamy sauce.
1. Skyr: A thick, yogurt-like dairy product that is often enjoyed with blueberries or as a dessert with sugar and cream.
2. Hangikjot: Smoked lamb served with white sauce, potatoes, and green peas. Traditionally served during Christmas.
3. Hardfiskur: Dried stockfish, usually haddock, cod, or wolffish, often eaten as a snack or spread with butter.
4. Hakarl: Fermented shark using an age-old preserving method, considered a delicacy and an acquired taste.
5. Plokkfiskur: A fish stew made with boiled fish, potatoes, and onions in a creamy sauce.
What is an Icelandic hot dog?
An Icelandic hot dog, known as "pylsa" is a popular street food renowned for its unique flavor and toppings. It is made from a blend of Icelandic lamb, pork, and beef, which gives it a distinct taste compared to other hot dogs. The hot dog is typically served in a soft bun and topped with three condiments: ketchup, sweet mustard, and remoulade (a mayonnaise-based sauce with sweet relish). Under the hot dog, you will find a combination of raw onions and crispy fried onions.
You are free to choose what condiments to include on your hot dog. If you want the full Icelandic experience, you should order one with everything, or "eina með öllu," which includes all five ingredients mentioned above.
You are free to choose what condiments to include on your hot dog. If you want the full Icelandic experience, you should order one with everything, or "eina með öllu," which includes all five ingredients mentioned above.
What is brennivin?
Brennivin is a clear, unsweetened schnapps flavored with caraway. It directly translates to "burning wine" and is considered Iceland's signature distilled beverage. Because of the iconic black label on the bottle and high alcohol content, it is sometimes jokingly called Svarti Dauði, or "Black Death".
What types of foods and beverages can I expect to try on a food and drink tour in Iceland?
On a food & drink tour in Iceland, you may get to taste a variety of local delicacies such as skyr, rye bread, lamb, fresh fish, fermented shark (hákarl), dried fish (harðfiskur), and traditional pastries. Beverages may include local craft beers, Icelandic schnapps (Brennivín), and unique non-alcoholic drinks.
What language are the food tours in Iceland conducted in?
Most food & drink tours in Iceland are conducted in English. Still, there are options for other languages for private tours, such as this three-hour private traditional Icelandic food tour of Reykjavik which is available in Spanish and French.
Are there any age restrictions for food or drink tours in Iceland?
Some food & drink tours may have age restrictions, especially if they include alcohol tastings or visits to breweries. Participants under the legal drinking age (20 years in Iceland) may not be allowed to join certain tours or may only be able to partake in non-alcoholic tastings. It's essential to check the tour description for age requirements before booking.
Is tipping required when eating at restaurants in Iceland?
Tipping is not required when eating at a restaurant in Iceland or visiting a bar. If the service was exceptional and you prefer to leave a tip, it is not frowned upon, but not expected either.
Is water free at Icelandic restaurants and bars?
Yes, all Icelandic restaurants and bars offer free water for their patrons. The water in Iceland is known for being exceptionally clean and full of minerals. Bottled water is generally not bought by locals as Icelanders simply drink the clean water available from the tap.
What’s the best season to book food and drink tours in Iceland?
Food and drink tours in Iceland are available year-round, but the experience can vary by season. Summer offers a chance to taste fresh local produce and visit farms, while winter provides cozy dining experiences with traditional Icelandic dishes that highlight preservation techniques.
Can I combine a food tour with sightseeing in Iceland?
Absolutely! Many food tours in Iceland combine culinary experiences with visits to iconic landmarks. For example, some Golden Circle tours include stops at local farms for tastings, blending culture, cuisine, and sightseeing seamlessly. This Golden Circle Minibus Tour, in particular, includes a stop at the Fridheimar Tomato Farm.
Can I buy local food or drinks during the tour?
Yes, many food tours include stops at local markets, shops, or breweries where you can purchase unique Icelandic products. From handcrafted chocolates to traditional spirits like brennivin, these tours offer excellent opportunities to take a taste of Iceland home with you.
Can I combine a beer or schnapps tasting with a meal?
Yes, several food tours in Iceland include drink tastings alongside meals. For instance, some brewery tours pair Icelandic craft beers with hearty dishes, creating a full culinary experience.
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