Discover Reykjavík’s hidden WWII history on this unique 3-hour walking tour. Explore the city’s wartime secrets, from the British invasion to spy tales - while tasting traditional Icelandic foods locals relied on in the 1940s, like lamb stew, smoked fish, even puffin and horse if you want it! We can also stop for sweet treats and give you time to buy treats to take home. A private and customisable experience that blends history and flavor, this tour brings occupied Reykjavík vividly to life.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Coffee & Introduction
- We begin in a cozy Reykjavík café, where we meet, grab a coffee to go, and set the scene with an introduction to Iceland during WWII.
The British Landing
With traditional Icelandic treats in hand, we visit the exact spot where British forces first landed in 1940, comparing old photographs with today’s view before retracing their invasion route into the city.
The Hot Dog Stand
A stop at Reykjavík’s legendary hot dog stand, with a surprising WWII connection (yes, Churchill himself may have tasted one here!).
The Old Town & Espionage
Following the soldiers’ path through the charming old town, we stop at the former German residence to hear the dramatic story of Werner Gerlach and an spy hidden in the British Embassy.
Austurvollur - Parliament Square
Here we discuss Winston Churchill’s wartime visit, the shift from British to American occupation, and the political ripples that followed.
A Soldier’s Lunch Stop
Over a traditional Icelandic dish in a local eatery, we explore how the arrival of foreign troops reshaped Icelandic culture - changing everything from food and music to dating customs.
Dining Like an Officer
In a historic restaurant once frequented by officers, we dive into the social tensions of the era, from soldiers courting Icelandic women to the creation of the largest spy network in Iceland’s history.
Sweet Farewell
We finish in a specialty food shop where you’ll sample traditional sweets and have the chance to pick up authentic Icelandic treats to take home.
Ending Point
We wrap up at the Icelandic food store—an ideal spot to continue browsing or take home a little taste of Reykjavík
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
- Your personal guide
- Your food courses along the way
- Drinks - Coffee at the first stop, and at "Soldiers Stop" you have the option to try Brennivin, or a local beer or a soft drink. Otherwise drinks are not included other than water.
- Any extra food and drinks you want at our stops.
- Anything purchased from the food tasting shop
- Tips and gratuities
- This tour includes plenty of walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
- The route is only partly wheelchair accessible (two stops require a small step to enter). If you use a wheelchair, please let me know in advance, and I will adjust the locations accordingly.
- Please inform me ahead of time of any food allergies or dietary restrictions so we can make sure you’re well taken care of.
- We go in all weather, and the wind can be very cold, so please dress accordingly, even in summer!
With over 12 years of guiding experience (the last 6 right here in magical Iceland), I bring a deep love for this country’s wild landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable adventures. Whether you want to explore Reykjavik's quiet corners, chase waterfalls off the beaten path, or follow your curiosity deep into the Highlands (when the season allows!), I’m here to create a tour that’s uniquely yours.
I’ve guided everything from WWII history walks to whale and puffin tours, and I’ve travelled every side road I could find - collecting stories, fun facts, and local gems to share along the way. Whatever your interests, I’ll help bring Iceland alive in a way that’s personal, thoughtful, and always a little fun (I am known for my excellent puns, after all!).
In my downtime, you’ll find me hiking, exploring in my 4x4, visiting museums (I’m a bit of a history buff), or just soaking in life here in Reykjavik, my home for the past six years.
I’m excited to meet you, learn what you love, and build an unforgettable Icelandic adventure together.
Let’s go exploring!
Jeffrey H.
“World War 2 On A Platter”
We scheduled a combined World War 2 and Food Tour with Luck B. Lucky us! This was a great tour. We thoroughly enjoyed learning about the British Invasion and occupation of Iceland during World War 2 and the American “invitation” to take over from the British. Lucky knows her history and our tour was jam packed with interesting stories and facts that captivated us and held our interest for the entirety of the tour. Although WW2 is her special area of interest we also asked her to put together a food tour to combine with our history tour. One member of our group has several food allergies that Lucky was able to accommodate. In fact she even provided a vegan cake for our friend to eat while we sampled some excellent Icelandic pastries. Lucky is engaging and fun and the information provided good insight into some little known events during WW2 that continue to impact Icelandic culture today. Lucky comes complete with British uniform and we especially enjoyed walking in the steps of the invasion force. We highly recommend Lucky and this tour if you are Looking for something a bit out of the ordinary.
Lucky B.
Thank you so much! I had the loveliest day with you all, it was a real treat to spend time with you, and wonderful to hear your war stories in return to mine. I hope the rest of your time here is wonderful, enjoy your cruise and say hello to the whales for me in Ísafjörður :) All the best Lucky
$399/ per group