Akureyri: Goðafoss, Laufas & The Christmas House Combo Tour

If you’re visiting Iceland’s northern town of Akureyri, this tour offers a cozy glimpse into the country’s natural beauty and history without taking up your whole day. Designed for those who want to see iconic sights and enjoy local culture, it combines stunning landscapes with charming heritage sites and a sprinkle of holiday magic.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the spectacular Goðafoss waterfall is a must-see. Second, the Old Turf House Laufás gives you a window into Icelandic life from centuries past. Third, the Magical House of Christmas offers a whimsical experience—regardless of the time of year.

A possible consideration? The 4-hour duration means you won’t have unlimited time at each stop, so if you’re after hours of exploration, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for many, the value packed into this short trip outweighs the quick stops.

This tour is best suited for families, culture enthusiasts, and first-time visitors who want a high-quality overview of some of Akureyri’s most beloved sights in a manageable, affordable package.

Good To Know

• Stunning natural scenery: The highlight is undoubtedly Goðafoss, a waterfall full of history and beauty.
• Cultural insight: Laufás Turf House offers a peek into Icelandic heritage and early rural life.
• Festive fun: The Christmas House adds a playful, fairy-tale element, perfect for all ages.
• Knowledgeable guides: Reviewers consistently praise guides for their humor, storytelling, and insights.
• Excellent value: At $118, the tour covers transportation, entry fees, and expert commentary.
• Short but sweet: The four-hour schedule is ideal for a quick, fulfilling taste of Iceland’s highlights.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Starting Point

The tour kicks off with hotel pickups from 20 locations in Akureyri, ranging from hostels to hotels, making it easy for most travelers to join without hassle. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure, so arriving on time is key. Once onboard, your guide will set the tone for a fun, informative ride.

Journey to Goðafoss

The drive to Goðafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods,” takes around 40 minutes. This is a pretty scenic stretch, giving you a chance to see the Icelandic countryside roll by. The guide will share the legend behind the waterfall, where in the 11th century, Icelanders threw statues of pagan gods into the river after adopting Christianity.

Once at the falls, you’ll enjoy about 40 minutes for photos, walking, and soaking in the view. Reviewers consistently mention how mesmerizing the cascade is—photos just don’t do it justice. Expect to be impressed by its width and roar, with plenty of space to explore from different angles.

Laufás Turf House and Heritage Site

Next, the bus heads to Laufás Museum, roughly a 40-minute drive away. Here, you’ll spend about 50 minutes exploring the historic turf house, which dates back to the Middle Ages. The building’s traditional grass roof and timber walls provide a tangible sense of Icelandic rural life from centuries ago.

Inside, artifacts from the house and surrounding farms help bring the past to life. The church on site features a pulpit from 1698, adding a touch of historical charm. Reviewers mention how much they appreciated seeing “how Icelanders lived until the early 20th century” and enjoyed the guided tour that provided context about local customs and daily life.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Christmas House

The next stop is the Magical House of Christmas, a festive highlight year-round. Even in summer, visitors describe it as a scene straight out of a fairy tale—imagine a quaint garden, cozy log fires, and holiday songs. Inside, the shop brims with holiday-themed gifts, but note many reviewers found the items quite expensive and not always of great quality.

A fun detail from reviews: visitors should look out for Gryla, the troll mother of the Icelandic Yule Lads, hidden in her cave—an extra treat for families and kids. The approximately 40-minute visit here allows time for photos, browsing, and enjoying the magical atmosphere.

Return and Optional Akureyri Sightseeing

After the Christmas House, your guide will drive back to Akureyri, with a short sightseeing tour at the end that wraps up the four hours. Many reviews mention how guides like Jon, Lilja, and Inga made the experience special with their humor, stories, and local knowledge.

Group Size and Transport

The tour uses a mini bus for a more intimate experience, typically with a small group. This means you’ll have more space and a chance to ask questions. The vehicle is often praised for its comfort and cleanliness, with pick-up and drop-off directly at your accommodation or cruise port.

The True Value of This Tour

At $118 per person, this experience offers a lot. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees for Laufás, and a local guide who doubles as storyteller. The price makes sense when considering the convenience of transportation, expert commentary, and all the sights included.

Many reviewers note the guides’ enthusiasm—they often go beyond basic facts, sharing local legends, humor, and personal touches that deepen the experience. For example, a guide named Inga was praised for her storytelling, making the history of Iceland come alive.

While the Christmas House might seem a bit pricey for souvenirs, the visit itself is charming and offers a little holiday magic, even in summer. If you’re traveling with children or love quirky, festive settings, this stop adds a special touch to the trip.

The Balance of Time and Experience

Some guests expressed wishing for more time at certain stops, especially the Turf House and Christmas House. However, most agree that the itinerary is well-paced, providing a broad overview of Icelandic culture and nature within a manageable window.

This tour is ideal if you want to see key sights without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s perfect for cruise visitors and travelers with limited time who still want a meaningful taste of Akureyri’s charm.

Final Thoughts

This Akureyri combo tour strikes a nice balance between natural wonder, cultural history, and holiday magic. It’s designed for families, first-time visitors, or anyone looking for a relaxed yet engaging experience. The inclusion of the iconic Goðafoss waterfall makes it worthwhile, while Laufás Turf House and the Christmas House add depth and fun.

The guided nature of the tour, combined with a small-group atmosphere and expert storytelling, makes it stand out from more touristy, cookie-cutter options. It offers excellent value, especially considering all entrance fees and transportation are covered.

Whether you’re enchanted by waterfalls, intrigued by Icelandic traditions, or simply seeking a memorable, well-organized half-day adventure, this tour delivers. It’s a well-rounded way to connect with Iceland’s heritage and natural beauty without overloading your schedule.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 4 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and breaks.

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from 20 different locations in Akureyri, starting about 15 minutes before departure.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by mini bus, a local guide, and entrance fees for Laufás Museum.

Do I need to pay extra for anything?
Refreshments are not included, so bringing water or snacks is recommended if needed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that children enjoy the sights and festive atmosphere, especially at the Christmas House.

How much time will I have at each stop?
Expect approximately 40 minutes at Goðafoss and the Christmas House, and about 50 minutes at Laufás. Some guests wished for more time, but the schedule is designed to give a good overview.

This tour is a smart choice for those wanting a taste of Iceland’s natural and cultural riches in a short timeframe—informative, fun, and full of memorable moments.

You can check if your dates are available here: