Accessibility in Reykjavik is becoming increasingly better. Thanks to local initiatives to improve accessibility, the city is gradually removing barriers, ensuring everyone can explore its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning natural backdrops regardless of mobility. This move towards inclusivity is not just about adding ramps and modifying infrastructure; it’s about embracing a philosophy that welcomes all visitors to experience the best of Reykjavik. The Reykjavik City Card is a fantastic way to explore everything the city offers. You can opt for a 1-, 2-, or 3-day pass, which provide ..read more

Meet Ástþór, but you can just call him Astor if that first spelling throws you for a loop. He’s your go-to guy for everything awesome about Icelandic food and beer. Coming straight from the scenic Vestmannaeyjar, Astor’s not your average guide; he’s got a background in acting, which means he’s all about keeping things lively and fun. Astor’s seen (and tasted) it all – heaps of Icelandic food and, let’s just say, a significant amount of beer (mostly Icelandic, especially these last few years). He’s a night owl by nature, forever young at heart, and knows Reykjavik’s nightlife like the back of ..read more

In Iceland, as part of an international movement that began in Italy in 1986, Slow Food is taking a significant stance against the global dominance of fast food chains and mass-produced meals. This initiative, which started as a protest by Carlo Petrini against a McDonald’s near Rome’s Spanish Steps, has blossomed into a worldwide grassroots movement, officially launched in 1989 in Paris. With over 100,000 members across more than 150 countries, Slow Food advocates for a deeper connection to our food sources, methods of production, and their impact on our health and the environment. Beyond mer ..read more

Njáls Saga, also known as Njála or Brennu-Njáls Saga, is a 13th-century Icelandic saga that tells the story of blood feuds within the Icelandic Commonwealth from 960 to 1020. The saga highlights how minor offences can escalate into lengthy and devastating cycles of revenge due to demands for honour. It particularly focuses on insults to masculinity, which suggests the author’s critique of a rigid ideal of manhood. The saga also features omens and prophetic dreams, which led to debates about the author’s perspective on fate. Gunnar from Hlíðarendi with his wife, fighting and defending his home ..read more

Meet Zofia, the go-to person at Your Friend in Reykjavik for anything tour-related outside Reykjavik. She wears many hats—brand ambassador, Travel Agent, and the one who answers your calls and emails. If you’re looking to explore Iceland beyond its capital, she’s your guide, setting up private tours and ensuring everything runs smoothly. Zofia’s about more than just about work, though. She studied geography at the University of Warsaw and is a big fan of Iceland, making her job her passion. When she’s not planning trips or helping travellers, you can find her enjoying football, hitting the ou ..read more

If you’re planning a trip to West Iceland, you’re in for a treat! This region offers a serene escape into Iceland’s natural wonders and rich history. In this blog post, we will highlight the best tours of West Iceland. From the breathtaking fjords to the charming villages, each tour is carefully selected to offer an authentic slice of Icelandic life and landscapes. We’re spotlighting experiences that show you the rugged beauty and heritage of the area. Join us as we uncover the best ways to truly experience what this unique region offers. Private Snæfellsnes Peninsula Exploring Embark on one ..read more

Just off the coast of South Iceland, near the stunning Seljalandsfoss, lie the Vestmannaeyjar (The Westman Islands). Inhabited since shortly after Ingólfur Arnarson’s arrival in Iceland, these islands offer a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. Whether you have just a day or more to spare, we highly encourage you to visit Vestmannaeyjar. A wealth of experiences awaits you, from exploring museums to encountering wildlife in animal sanctuaries, not to mention thrilling whale-watching opportunities. Don’t miss the chance to experience all that Vestmannaeyjar has to offer. What to do ..read more

Introducing Valur, the key person at Your Friend in Reykjavik. His name translates to “Falcon”, and he oversees the operations as the manager and lead guide of the company. Valur completed his education at the Icelandic Tourist Guide School and is an active Icelandic Tourist Guide Association member. Originally from the Westman Islands in southern Iceland, he relocated to Reykjavik at age 20. Despite spending recent years in England, he manages the company with assistance from a team in Reykjavik. Valur loves good food and beer and knows all the best places to eat and drink in Reykjavik. He i ..read more

What are the best tours of South Iceland? South Iceland is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes. This region attracts travellers seeking adventure, natural wonders, and cultural experiences, from majestic waterfalls to black sand beaches and from erupting geysers to magnificent glaciers. Whether you’re in the mood for an adrenaline-pumping adventure, a peaceful retreat, or an eagerness to learn more about Icelandic traditions and history, South Iceland has plenty of options. In this post, we’ll look at some of the best tours in South Iceland, each offering a special ..read more

The Icelandic flatbread, or flatkaka (or flatkökur plural), is a traditional staple—an uncomplicated round bread traditionally crafted without leavening agents, comprised solely of rye flour (sometimes barley) and water. Today, the recipe includes a blend of rye flour and whole wheat or exclusively whole wheat, occasionally enriched with oatmeal and baking powder. Some variations even incorporate sugar into the dough. Photo: Gæðabakstur / Ömmubakstur These flatbreads typically measure around 15 cm in diameter and 2-3 mm thick, displaying a characteristic brown hue with black spots. Initially ..read more