Private Reykjavik City & Icelandic Architecture Walking Tour
Highlights
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Private walking tour of Reykjavik
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Explore Reykjavik's captivating cityscape
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Witness the evolution of Icelandic architecture
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Learn about modern and traditional design
Summary
Discover the vibrant capital of Iceland on a private walking tour. Witness the evolution of Icelandic architecture and explore Reykjavik's captivating cityscape. Learn about the city's unique blend of modern and traditional design.
Tour info
Duration
3 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Price per Person:
(18-64 years)
$289.00
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location
Why take this tour?
Welcome to the Reykjavik City and Architecture Walk! This guided walking tour will take you on a journey through the vibrant capital of Iceland, showcasing its unique blend of modern and traditional architecture. Before we begin exploring the city, let's delve into the evolution of architecture and housebuilding in Iceland to understand the context of the structures we'll encounter.
Iceland's geographical location, climate, and cultural heritage have all influenced its architectural history.
Due to its isolation and challenging environment, traditional Icelandic architecture developed distinct characteristics that adapted to the harsh conditions.
Due to its isolation and challenging environment, traditional Icelandic architecture developed distinct characteristics that adapted to the harsh conditions.
In the early settlement period, Icelanders built turf houses, known as "tjörn" or "burstabær,"
which were partially underground structures with grassy roofs.
These houses provided insulation against the cold and offered protection from the fierce winds and snowstorms.
which were partially underground structures with grassy roofs.
These houses provided insulation against the cold and offered protection from the fierce winds and snowstorms.
Over time, the turf houses evolved into timber-framed houses with turf walls, known as "skálar," featuring wooden gables and roofs covered with turf or wooden shingles.
This style of architecture reflected the scarcity of trees on the island and the need to maximize resources.
This style of architecture reflected the scarcity of trees on the island and the need to maximize resources.
In the 19th century, urbanization and the influence of Danish architectural trends led to the emergence of timber houses and concrete buildings. The timber houses were often painted in vibrant colors, creating a cheerful and picturesque cityscape that can still be observed in parts of Reykjavik's Old Town.
During the mid-20th century, the influence of modernism and functionalism began to shape Icelandic architecture. Buildings like the Hallgrímskirkja, designed by architect Guðjón Samúelsson, showcase the modernist style with its towering presence and clean lines inspired by Icelandic nature.
In recent years, Reykjavik has experienced a surge in contemporary architecture, blending innovative design with sustainable practices. The city has become a hub for architectural experimentation, evident in structures like the Harpa Concert Hall, with its distinctive glass facade reminiscent of Iceland's basalt columns.
As we embark on our tour, you'll have the opportunity to witness the evolution of Icelandic architecture firsthand, Our guide will provide further insights into the architectural history of Reykjavik, allowing you to appreciate the city's unique architectural heritage. So, let's begin our exploration of Reykjavik's captivating cityscape on the Reykjavik City and Architecture Walk!
What’s included?
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A glass of wine, beer, schnapps or simply great coffee -
Fun-loving local guide from Your Friend in Reykjavik -
Visit to Hallgrímskirkja Church -
Tips (Not required in Iceland)
Things to know
Before you book
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If you wish to be guided in a specific language please let us know.
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This is a very family friendly activity
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We can also accommodate special wishes if you want to see specific things in the city
Before you go
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Please dress according to Icelandic weather
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We can pick you up from your hotel if it is within walking distance of the city centre
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This walk is specialised around Icelandic architecture
Cancellation Policy
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Up to 24 hours before the beginning of the activity: full refund
Less than 24 hours before the beginning of the activity or no-show: no refund
About operator:
Your Friend in Reykjavik offers walking tours & driving experiences in and out of Reykjavik. With daily Food, Folklore, Beer, a City walk called a Walk With a Viking and now the Reykjavik Cat Walk to name a few.
Our driving experiences range from the classics, like The Golden Circle, Southcoast, Snæfellsnes and more but we also do bespoke experiences off the beaten path if the travelers would like to explore something different.
Our driving experiences range from the classics, like The Golden Circle, Southcoast, Snæfellsnes and more but we also do bespoke experiences off the beaten path if the travelers would like to explore something different.
All private and bespoke walking and driving tours can be guided in various languages, like English, Spanish, French, German, Italian and more.
With thousands of five-star reviews, we know how to Edutain (Entertain and Educate).
All our guides are expert locals who have graduated from an Icelandic tour guide school.
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