Reykjavik Guide

Reykjavik Food & Culture Tours

Taste authentic Icelandic cuisine and discover Viking heritage, local culture, and Nordic traditions!

29+ tours
From $70
3-4 hours
Reykjavik Food & Culture Tours

Discover Reykjavik's vibrant food scene and rich Icelandic culture combining Nordic traditions with modern creativity! Food and culture tours take you beyond tourist restaurants to authentic Icelandic eateries, local markets, traditional bakeries, and cultural landmarks where you'll taste unique Icelandic specialties - fresh seafood, lamb, skyr (yogurt), rye bread, hot dogs (pylsur), dried fish, and yes, adventurous options like fermented shark! Learn about Iceland's Viking heritage, Saga literature, independence history, and modern culture while sampling food that sustained Icelanders through centuries in harsh Arctic conditions. Expert guides share stories of Icelandic traditions, language quirks, and contemporary Nordic lifestyle. From Reykjavik's colorful streets to hidden food gems, these tours feed both stomach and curiosity!

Featured Food & Culture Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for food & culture tours in Reykjavik

Reykjavik Food Walk - Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland
From $144
Free Cancellation

Local food, city & history tour of Reykjavik. In the tastiest sight seeing tour in Iceland, we explore down town Reykjavik through delicious local cuisines that you would never come across in your typical “to-do in Iceland” itinerary! You will stroll around the city and visit 5-6 wonderful local restaurants with a fun & knowledgeable guide by your side. In our tours you will have a chance to try the best local cuisines of Iceland in each season, like the delicious Icelandic lamb, home made Icelandic ice cream from a secret family recipe, an authentic catch of the day, a hot dog from the famous Icelandic hot dog stand and much more! If you like to experience Reykjavik, Iceland’s culture, unique cuisine, local restaurants and make new friends, you should definitely join our Reykjavik Food Walk. Just make sure you show up hungry!

5.0(18,822)
3h
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World War Two Walking Tour in Reykjavik
From $40
Free Cancellation

Our in character guide takes you back in time to the outbreak of World War Two, we use period photos and videos, comparing them to the modern day city, so you can see what Reykjavik was like as the British invaded and the Americans followed. How it changed our entire culture, from the food we ate to the music we listened to.

5.0(2)
2h
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The Reykjavik Harbor Food Tour
From $147
Free CancellationNew

Embark on a culinary adventure with us and explore the remarkable connection between Iceland and the sea on the Reykjavik Harbor Food Tour. Iceland's rich maritime traditions are deeply rooted in its history and culture, and this tour promises to immerse you in the flavors and stories that have sustained the nation for centuries. Come hungry and leave with a deeper appreciation for Iceland's profound connection to the sea. Book your spot on the Reykjavik Harbor Food Tour today and embark on a seafood odyssey like no other with us, where the grand finale is a sweet delight you won't soon forget.

3h
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Private Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour
From $241
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Experience the Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour for a festive journey through Iceland's capital, exploring its culinary wonders with local guides. Wander charming streets, illuminated with lights, sampling traditional Icelandic Christmas dishes like Glazed Ham, pickled herring, smoked lamb, gravlax, and sweet buttery laufabrauð. Engage in conversations about the cultural significance of each dish amidst the bustling holiday atmosphere. Discover local markets and eateries frequented by both locals and visitors, immersing yourself in the joyous spirit of Christmas in Reykjavik. Bundle up and savor the unique flavors of Icelandic holiday cuisine on this enchanting tour.

5.0(2)
3h
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Private Reykjavík Food & Beer Tasting Tour
From $710.39
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Embark on a private guided journey through the city, savoring Icelandic traditional delicacies and local craft beers while discovering its rich history and culture. Join our experienced guide for a private walk around Reykjavík, where you'll discover the city’s rich history and receive insider tips to make the most of your visit to this beautiful country. Along the way, you'll enjoy multiple stops to taste local bites and drinks, visiting both well-known spots and hidden gems. With all food and drinks included, you can relax and enjoy a hassle-free experience. Be sure to come hungry and ready to explore! Tour Highlights: Savor a genuine Icelandic food experience at a selection of carefully chosen eateries by our local guides Taste a variety of Icelandic beers from breweries around the country Stroll past and visit some of Reykjavík’s most historic and beautiful landmarks Gain insights from your expert guide, who will share historical facts and local tips

5.0(1)
4h
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Private 2-Day Glacier Lagoon, Ice Cave and Northern Lights
From $7,400
👤Private Tour🔥Likely to Sell Out

Travel the entire south coast of Iceland with Hidden Iceland over two adventure filled days! Take in the impressive Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, as well as the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. Walk along the ridges of Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon before coming to our accommodation for the night. There’s a chance you’ll see the Northern Lights dancing across the sky. We start the next day at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon where the giant icebergs float around and wash up on Diamond Beach. From here we drive to meet up with our local ice cave experts from Local Guide to embark on our Ice Cave adventure. We travel in their specialised Super Jeeps to get closer to the glacier. You'll get up close and personal to the astonishingly beautiful ice formations of an outlet glacier of the enormous Vatnajökull icecap, with an ice cave & glacier hike tour. The textures, light and colours will leave you in awe!

5.0(108)
48h
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Best of Iceland 6-Day Stopover Tour
From $845.59

This 6-day Iceland adventure combines cultural highlights with unforgettable landscapes. Start in Reykjavík, where colourful streets, cosy cafés, and a lively arts scene set the mood. A guided Golden Circle day tour then takes you to Þingvellir National Park, the erupting Strokkur geyser, and the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall. During the winter months, you can choose to add an evening Northern Lights excursion, led by expert guides who select the best viewing spots away from city lights. To personalise your journey, optional experiences include a rejuvenating visit to the Blue Lagoon, a South Shore day tour with waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches, or a Reykjavík Food Tour. Room Allocation: Guests booking for one person will be accommodated in a single room. Bookings for two persons will be placed in a double room. Bookings for three persons will be accommodated in a double room with an extra bed or a triple room, depending on availability.

144h
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Reykjavik Food and Drink Adventure - Local Evening Experience
From $190
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

A local food tour tour with drinks at all the stops! On The Reykjavik Food&Drinks tour, we take a group of people to 5 restaurant/bar stops in the central Reykjavik area, tasting some great Icelandic food, but also having some fantastic Icelandic drinks along the way. From beers to stronger drinks, from fine-dining restaurants to street food! It's a great tour to start your stay in Reykjavik on as you get to know the city center, our culture and cuisine, all through a super fun, local guide. If you want to experience a fun night and meet new friends, this is the tour for you. Just make sure that you show up hungry and thirsty - as you will be leaving neither hungry nor thirsty!

5.0(217)
3h 30m
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Private Vegetarian Reykjavik Food Tour
From $241
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Looking for a unique way to explore Reykjavik? Join our Vegetarian Walking Tour and discover the city's vibrant vegetarian and vegan food scene. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you'll visit some of Reykjavik's best vegetarian and vegan restaurants and cafes, sample delicious plant-based cuisine, and learn about the city's history, culture, and culinary traditions. Along the way, you'll explore the colorful streets of Reykjavik, admire stunning architecture, and discover hidden gems that are often missed by tourists. The tour lasts approximately 2,5 - 3 hours and covers around 2.5 kilometers of walking. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the weather. Whether you're a vegetarian or want to try something new, our Vegetarian Walking Tour is the perfect way to experience Reykjavik's unique culture and cuisine. Book your tour today and prepare for a delicious and unforgettable adventure!

3h
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Reykjavik Meet & Greet
From $229
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

The Reykjavik Meet & Greet is a personalized service designed to enhance your experience in Reykjavik and Iceland, perfect for travelers, newcomers, and explorers. With the guide, Meet & Greet, you’ll get an immersive introduction to Reykjavik, like meeting a local friend who knows the city well. We can meet in your hotel lobby, a café, or a restaurant—whichever suits you best. What to Expect: - Personalized Welcome: Warm greetings at your preferred location. - Convenience: Flexible meet-up times around your schedule. - One-on-One Guidance: A dedicated host providing personalized tips and recommendations. - Local Insights: Discover Reykjavik’s history, culture, and top attractions. - Orientation Tour: Get to know the city’s layout and hidden gems. - Dining & Shopping Tips: Recommendations for food and souvenirs. - Adventure Planning: Assistance with day trips and excursions. We ensure a relaxed, stress-free, and memorable start to your Icelandic adventure!

1h
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Reykjavik Food Tour and City Walk - PRIVATE TOUR
From $326.14
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour🔥Likely to Sell Out

A private tour with a local and personal touch. We will take you on a walk around the old Reykjavík, visiting the highlights and landmarks of the city and introducing you to the culture, history, customs and the people as well as trying the traditional food. We will visit a hidden traditional restaurant where you will have a taste of the food and learn about the food culture in Iceland, that has changed dramatically during the last century. You will also try some traditional pastries and delicious ice cream.

5.0(5)
4h
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Reykjavík Platinum Tour: Heritage, Local Flavours & Perlan Museum
From $1,601.05
Free Cancellation👤Private TourNew

Reykjavík City Highlights & Perlan Luxury Experience Join us on a refined journey through Reykjavík’s culture, architecture and natural wonders. Begin at Höfði House, the historic waterfront residence of the 1986 Reagan–Gorbachev summit, before visiting the poetic Sun Voyager sculpture with its striking bay views. Continue to Harpa Concert Hall, where glass architecture reflects sea and sky, then stroll to Tjörnin and City Hall to see the impressive 3D topographical map of Iceland. Visit Hallgrímskirkja, the city’s basalt-inspired landmark, and explore the vibrant boutiques and cafés of Laugavegur and Rainbow Street, enjoying a curated Icelandic food tasting along the way. Your day concludes with a three-hour immersive experience at Perlan Museum, walking through a real ice cave (man-made with real Ice), exploring geothermal and volcanic exhibits, enjoying a cinematic Northern Lights show, and taking in 360° views from the observation deck, before a smooth return to your hotel.

5.0(1)
7h
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Ready to Explore Reykjavik?

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Why Choose Food & Culture Tours in Reykjavik?

Authentic Icelandic Cuisine

Taste traditional foods at local spots where Reykjavik residents actually eat!

Cultural Insights

Learn about Viking heritage, Sagas, traditions, and modern Icelandic lifestyle.

Local Expertise

Guides share stories, history, and insider knowledge about Icelandic culture.

Hidden Gems

Discover local favorites and authentic eateries tourists typically miss.

Types of Food & Culture Tours in Reykjavik

Reykjavik Food Walking Tours

Progressive tasting tour visiting 4-6 eateries sampling Icelandic specialties with cultural stories.

3-4 hours6-8 tastingsLocal restaurantsCultural contextDowntown walking

Traditional Icelandic Feast

Multi-course meal featuring traditional dishes with stories about Icelandic food history.

Traditional restaurantMultiple coursesIcelandic specialtiesCultural storytellingAuthentic experience

Reykjavik Culture & History Walk

Explore Reykjavik landmarks, museums, and cultural sites with food stops along the way.

Historic sitesHallgrímskirkja churchHarbor areaFood tastingsCity overview

Icelandic Cooking Classes

Learn to prepare traditional Icelandic dishes with local chefs and cultural context.

Hands-on cookingTraditional recipesEat what you makeCultural insightsTake-home recipes

What to Expect on Your Reykjavik Food & Culture Tours

Duration

Food tours last 3-4 hours with 6-8 tastings; culture walks take 2-3 hours.

Icelandic Tastings

Sample lamb, seafood, skyr, rye bread, hot dogs, dried fish, and unique specialties.

Local Eateries

Visit authentic restaurants, bakeries, and markets where locals shop and eat.

Cultural Stories

Learn about Viking heritage, Sagas, independence, and modern Icelandic culture.

Small Groups

Intimate groups (8-12 people) allow personal interaction and questions.

Reykjavik Landmarks

Walk past colorful buildings, churches, harbor, and iconic Reykjavik sights.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Come hungry! Food tours include 6-8 substantial tastings - enough to replace lunch or dinner.

2

Traditional Icelandic cuisine is unique - approach with open mind, especially adventurous items!

3

Reykjavik's famous hot dog stands (Bæjarins Beztu) are beloved by locals - try one!

4

Skyr (Icelandic yogurt) is not actually yogurt - it's strained cheese product, high in protein.

5

Ask guides for restaurant recommendations - they know the best spots tourists miss.

6

Evening food tours capture Reykjavik's vibrant nightlife atmosphere on weekends.

7

Icelandic lamb is exceptional - grass-fed, free-roaming, and incredibly flavorful!

8

Winter tours often include warming Icelandic meat soup (kjötsúpa) - perfect for cold days!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What is traditional Icelandic food?

A: Icelandic cuisine evolved from harsh Arctic conditions requiring food preservation and utilizing available resources! TRADITIONAL STAPLES: LAMB - Free-roaming, grass-fed Icelandic sheep produce incredible meat. Slow-cooked lamb, smoked lamb (hangikjöt), and lamb soup (kjötsúpa) are classics! SEAFOOD - Fresh cod, haddock, herring, and salmon plus lobster (langoustine). Dried fish (harðfiskur) is popular snack! SKYR - Strained dairy product (technically cheese, not yogurt) eaten for 1000+ years. High protein, low fat. RYE BREAD (rúgbrauð) - Dense, dark, slightly sweet bread traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat! PRESERVED FOODS - Centuries ago, preservation was survival: fermented shark (hákarl - extremely pungent!), dried fish, pickled foods, and smoked meats. MODERN ADDITIONS - Excellent hot dogs (pylsur), Nordic-inspired fine dining, and creative fusion! Icelandic food emphasizes quality, freshness, and sustainability - simple preparation letting ingredients shine!

Q:What should I try in Reykjavik?

A: Must-try Icelandic foods and experiences in Reykjavik! ACCESSIBLE & DELICIOUS: Icelandic hot dog (pylsur) - Try at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, Clinton and Metallica ate here! Lamb dish - Exceptionally flavorful grass-fed meat. Fresh seafood - Cod, haddock, or langoustine (Icelandic lobster). Skyr - Creamy, protein-rich Icelandic "yogurt." Plokkfiskur - Mashed fish stew (comfort food!). Rye bread with smoked salmon - Classic combination. Kleinur - Icelandic twisted donuts (sweet treat!). ADVENTUROUS OPTIONS: Fermented shark (hákarl) - Extremely pungent, acquired taste, Viking challenge! Sheep head (svið) - Not for everyone but culturally significant. Whale - Controversial and many skip for ethical reasons. DRINKS: Brennivín - "Black Death" schnapps (caraway flavored). Icelandic craft beer - Excellent local breweries! RECOMMENDATION: Start with accessible items - all are delicious! Try hákarl if you're adventurous (tours often include small tasting). Icelandic lamb and seafood are world-class!

Q:How much do food tours cost?

A: Reykjavik food tour prices reflect Iceland's high cost of living but include substantial value! TYPICAL PRICING: Walking food tours (3-4 hours, 6-8 tastings): €70-110 per person. Traditional feast dinners (multi-course, restaurant): €80-130. Culture & food combination tours: €90-140. Cooking classes (hands-on, includes meal): €100-160. Private food tours: €200-400+ depending on group size. WHAT'S INCLUDED: Expert local guide (cultural insights + food knowledge), 6-8 substantial food tastings (replaces meal!), beverages at several stops, walking tour of Reykjavik, cultural and historical context, and restaurant recommendations. GROUP SIZES: Typically 8-15 people (intimate experience). VALUE ASSESSMENT: Tours include €40-60 worth of food alone, plus expert guidance through expensive Reykjavik (restaurant meals easily €30-50), so pricing is fair! BUDGET TIP: Food tours are actually cost-effective ways to try multiple Reykjavik restaurants while learning about culture - much cheaper than dining at several restaurants independently!

Q:Is Icelandic food expensive?

A: Yes - Reykjavik is one of the world's most expensive cities for food! RESTAURANT PRICES: Casual meal (soup, sandwich, coffee): €15-25. Mid-range restaurant dinner: €30-50 per person. Fine dining: €80-150+. Famous hot dog: €4-6 (cheapest meal!). Beer: €8-12 (alcohol is very expensive!). Coffee: €4-6. WHY SO EXPENSIVE: Most food is imported (limited growing season), small population limits economies of scale, high labor costs, expensive rent, and strong króna. However, QUALITY IS HIGH - ingredients are excellent! BUDGET TIPS: Shop at grocery stores (Bónus supermarket cheapest) and self-cater, eat hot dogs and bakery items for cheap meals, happy hour deals (4-7 PM) at bars cut drink costs, food tours provide value (multiple restaurants for less!), and lunch is cheaper than dinner. Iceland's high costs are unavoidable but manageable! WORTH IT: Icelandic lamb and seafood are world-class - splurge on at least one nice meal. The quality justifies premium pricing!

Q:What is hákarl (fermented shark)?

A: Hákarl is Iceland's most infamous food - fermented Greenland shark with extremely pungent ammonia smell and challenging taste! THE HISTORY: Vikings had no refrigeration in Iceland. Greenland shark meat is naturally poisonous (high uric acid and trimethylamine oxide), so Icelanders developed fermentation to make it safe! Shark is buried underground or hung for 2-3 months allowing fluids to drain and ferment. After fermentation, it's cut into cubes and served as snack. HOW IT TASTES/SMELLS: Incredibly pungent ammonia smell (like cleaning products!), strong fishy/cheesy taste, chewy texture. Typically chased with Brennivín (Black Death schnapps). DO YOU HAVE TO TRY IT? No! Many Icelanders don't even eat it regularly - it's traditional but not common. However, it's a cultural experience and many tours include small tasting. RECOMMENDATIONS: Try one small piece if offered (it's memorable!), have Brennivín ready to wash it down, don't judge all Icelandic food by hákarl (other items are delicious!). It's more cultural novelty than daily food - embrace the adventure!

Q:What is Reykjavik's food scene like?

A: Reykjavik has evolved into a vibrant Nordic food capital mixing traditional Icelandic ingredients with modern creativity! FOOD SCENE OVERVIEW: QUALITY INGREDIENTS - Exceptional lamb, seafood, dairy from Iceland's pristine environment. TRADITIONAL ROOTS - Restaurants honor Viking-era preservation techniques and historical recipes. MODERN INNOVATION - Young chefs create New Nordic cuisine with Icelandic twist! SUSTAINABILITY FOCUS - Locally sourced, seasonal, minimal waste, ethical fishing. CRAFT BEVERAGE SCENE - Excellent local breweries, craft spirits, and Icelandic coffee culture. RESTAURANT VARIETY: Traditional - Serving classic Icelandic lamb, fish, rye bread. Contemporary - Michelin-level fine dining (Dill is Michelin-starred!). International - Asian fusion, Italian, American influences. Casual - Hot dog stands, bakeries, soup spots. FOOD CULTURE: Icelanders dine late (8-9 PM), reservations recommended for popular spots, service is laid-back (not rushed), and tipping is included in prices. Despite high costs, Reykjavik offers world-class dining worth experiencing!

Q:Are there vegetarian options in Reykjavik?

A: Yes! Reykjavik has increasingly good vegetarian and vegan options despite traditional meat/fish-heavy Icelandic cuisine! VEGETARIAN REALITY: Traditional Icelandic food centers on lamb and seafood (survival in harsh climate required animal protein). However, MODERN REYKJAVIK is very accommodating with growing vegetarian awareness! VEGETARIAN-FRIENDLY OPTIONS: Dedicated vegetarian/vegan restaurants (Gló, Veganæs), most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes (mushroom burgers, vegetable pastas, salads), excellent bakeries with vegetarian pastries and breads, skyr (Icelandic yogurt - if lacto-vegetarian), soup spots often have vegetable soups, and international cuisine (Indian, Thai, Italian) with vegetarian options. FOOD TOUR CONSIDERATIONS: Most food tours can accommodate vegetarians with advance notice (mention when booking!). You'll miss traditional lamb/fish tastings but experience other Icelandic foods. Vegan is more challenging but doable. GROCERY STORES: Excellent produce, vegetarian products, and Icelandic bread/dairy. RECOMMENDATION: Reykjavik is surprisingly vegetarian-friendly for Nordic capital! Restaurants are accommodating, and dedicated veggie spots exist. Just communicate dietary needs when booking tours/reservations.

Q:What cultural sites should I visit in Reykjavik?

A: Reykjavik packs impressive cultural attractions despite being a small capital! MUST-VISIT CULTURAL SITES: HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA CHURCH - Iconic modernist church dominating skyline! Tower (€10) offers best city views. HARPA CONCERT HALL - Stunning modern architecture with glass facade, home to Iceland Symphony. Walk through free! NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND - Excellent overview of Icelandic history from settlement to modern times. €15, 2 hours. PERLAN MUSEUM - Interactive exhibits on Iceland's nature, glaciers, and Northern Lights. Ice cave inside! €30. OLD HARBOR - Colorful historic area with museums, restaurants, whale watching tours. THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION - Archaeological museum built around Viking-age ruins! CULTURE HOUSE - Manuscripts, Sagas, artifacts showcasing Icelandic literary heritage. REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM - Contemporary and modern Icelandic art. SUN VOYAGER SCULPTURE - Iconic Viking ship sculpture on waterfront (free, great photos!). LAUGAVEGUR STREET - Main shopping street with colorful buildings, cafes, boutiques. Most cultural sites are walkable in compact downtown. Reykjavik combines Viking heritage with cutting-edge Nordic design!

Don't Miss the Perfect Reykjavik Experience

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Why Visit Reykjavik?

Spectacular northern lights and Arctic skies

Famous Golden Circle and natural wonders

Iconic Blue Lagoon and geothermal spas

Unique Icelandic cuisine and culture

Easy access to stunning natural landscapes

Perfect blend of urban life and nature

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Reykjavik enjoys a subarctic climate with cool summers and cold winters. Summers are mild (50-65°F/10-18°C), winters are cold (25-40°F/-4-4°C), and the weather can be unpredictable year-round.

Best Months

June to August offer the best weather with mild temperatures, longer daylight hours, and perfect conditions for sightseeing.

Peak Season

June to August brings peak tourist season with mild weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.

Off Season

September to May offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with cold weather and shorter days.

Plan Your Reykjavik Trip

Transportation Tips

Good public transportation with buses. Walking is perfect for exploring the compact city center, and organized tours provide access to surrounding natural attractions.

Car Rental Deals in Reykjavik

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Where to Stay

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Best Hotel Deals in Reykjavik

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