Reykjavík in 1 Day for Couples - Visit the exact British landing point in Reykjavík (1940)
In Collaboration with No Gremlins Travel. Updated on February 26, 2026.
A private, 3-hour guided walking tour through Reykjavík that pairs WWII history with traditional Icelandic tastings. The guide leads you from a first coffee and introduction, to the British landing site, espionage locations in the old town, Parliament Square, and concludes with a specialty sweet shop tasting.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with No Gremlins Travel, inspired by the tour Occupied Reykjavík: WWII Secrets and Traditional Icelandic Food - Private Tour. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Visit the exact British landing point in Reykjavík (1940)
- Walk the old town while hearing espionage and occupation stories
- Taste traditional wartime foods including smoked fish, lamb stew and local sweets
- Stand at Austurvöllur (Parliament Square) and learn about political shifts during WWII
Itinerary
Day 1
Private 3-hour walking tour focused on Reykjavík’s WWII history and wartime food culture. Start location is on Hafnarstræti; route follows nearby streets and squares in the city centre. Moderate walking with brief stops for tastings; route can be adjusted for mobility needs if informed in advance.
Coffee & Introduction
Meet your guide in a nearby Hafnarstræti café for coffee to go and a short introduction to Iceland’s situation at the outbreak of WWII and the context for the tour.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a light jacket — Reykjavík can be breezy even in summer.
- If you prefer tea or a non-dairy milk, tell the guide when you meet so the café order can be adjusted.
- Arrive 5 minutes early to ensure a prompt 14:00 departure and to complete any quick dietary notes.
The British Landing
Visit the exact spot where British forces landed in May 1940. The guide compares historical photos with the present-day view and outlines the initial troop movements into the city.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect a short walk from the meeting point — comfortable shoes are recommended.
- The landing spot is outdoors and exposed to wind; bring a scarf or windproof layer.
- Ask the guide to point out remaining wartime markers and how to view archival photos on your phone later.
The Hot Dog Stand
A quick stop at Reykjavík’s famous hot dog stand — a local eating institution with wartime-era anecdotes. Small tasting included as part of the food course.
Tips from local experts:
- If you have dietary restrictions (vegetarian, allergies), tell the guide before ordering — alternatives can be arranged.
- This stop is brief (standing); plan for a quick bite rather than a seated meal.
- Keep your receipt or packaging if you want to compare modern ingredients with wartime-era rations later.
The Old Town & Espionage
A guided walk through Reykjavík’s old town streets to the former German residence. Hear the stories of Werner Gerlach and the spy embedded at the British Embassy.
Tips from local experts:
- Watch your step on older pavements; some sections are uneven.
- Ask your guide about nearby plaques and houses tied to individual stories — these make good photo stops.
- If you want quieter photos, request a brief pause on a side street away from passing pedestrians.
Austurvollur - Parliament Square
Stand in Austurvöllur where political decisions during the occupation shaped Iceland’s future. Discussion includes Winston Churchill’s visit and the transition from British to American forces.
Tips from local experts:
- This is an open square — consider a brief seated rest on the benches while the guide narrates.
- If you’d like a quieter moment, step slightly off the square toward the tree-lined edges.
- Ask the guide for recommendations for photographing the Alþingi building without crowds.
A Soldier’s Lunch Stop
Sit down for a traditional Icelandic course (sample-size) at a local eatery on Lækjargata and learn how foreign troops influenced food, music and dating customs. At this stop you’ll have the option to sample Brennivin, a local beer, or a soft drink.
Tips from local experts:
- The legal drinking age is 20 in Iceland; bring ID if you plan to try Brennivin or beer.
- Inform the guide about allergies or dietary restrictions in advance so the kitchen can prepare alternatives.
- This is a seated stop; use this time to relax and store any outer layers in your bag if the weather has warmed.
Dining Like an Officer
Visit a historic restaurant on Austurstræti once frequented by officers to discuss social tensions of the era, courting between soldiers and locals, and the rise of espionage networks.
Tips from local experts:
- This stop focuses on history and atmosphere rather than a full meal; photos of historic interiors may be possible — ask permission first.
- If mobility is a concern, inform the guide; the venue may have a small step to enter and the guide can coordinate access.
- Keep any small tasting portions until the guide finishes the historical context to enjoy both food and story together.
Sweet Farewell
Finish at a specialty food shop on Laugavegur for small sweet tastings and the option to purchase authentic Icelandic candies to take home.
Tips from local experts:
- Purchases from the shop are not included; bring a small amount of cash or card if you wish to buy treats.
- If you have sweet-related allergies (e.g., lactose), tell the guide before sampling so safe options are offered.
- This is a good place to pick up compact souvenirs; ask the shop staff for local favourites if you want gift ideas.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 4 |
| Total Activities | 8 |
| Total Places | 8 |
| Activities Types | Restaurant, Outdoor, Culture, Attraction, Meal, Shopping |
