Akureyri: Goðafoss, Laufas & The Christmas House Combo Tour

Akureyri: Goðafoss, Laufas & The Christmas House Combo Tour offers a compact but memorable slice of Iceland’s charm. For just $118 per person, you’ll spend about four hours exploring some of the region’s most iconic sights, guided by knowledgeable local storytellers. This tour visits the stunning Godafoss waterfall, the historic Laufás Turf House, and the enchanting Christmas House—a blend of natural beauty, heritage, and holiday magic.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances breathtaking landscapes with cultural insights—especially hearing stories about the waterfall’s significance in Icelandic history and seeing the traditional turf houses that reveal how Icelanders once lived. The Christmas House is a whimsical stop that appeals to families and those looking for a bit of holiday cheer even outside the season.

A potential consideration is the compact schedule—time at each site is limited, so if you’re a fan of lingering longer or exploring in depth, this may feel a bit rushed. Still, it’s a great choice for travelers who want a well-rounded overview without dedicating a full day.

This tour suits those with a curiosity for Icelandic culture, history, and stunning scenery, especially if you’re visiting Akureyri on a cruise or short stay. If you’re traveling with family or prefer guided stories over DIY exploration, you’ll find this a practical and engaging option.

Key Points

• Highlights include Iceland’s famous Godafoss waterfall, the historic Laufás Turf House, and the festive Christmas House.
• Guided by knowledgeable local storytellers who share insights, humor, and legends.
• Efficient 4-hour schedule ideal for those on a tight itinerary or cruise visitors.
• Includes entrance fees for Laufás Museum, offering a glimpse into Icelandic heritage.
• Comfortable transportation in a mini bus, with pickup and drop-off at multiple locations.
• Limited time at each site means you’ll see the highlights but won’t linger long; plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour in Detail

Convenient Pickup and Short Drive to Iceland’s Highlights

Starting with your hotel or cruise ship pickup (with options in Akureyri and surrounding areas), the journey begins comfortably in a mini bus. The short drive—about 40 minutes—sets the tone for a relaxed yet engaging day. You’re with a small group, which helps keep the experience intimate, and the guide’s local knowledge shines through from the get-go.

Visiting the Magnificent Godafoss Waterfall

The centerpiece of this tour is Godafoss, often called the “Waterfall of the Gods,” and for good reason. Formed by glacial river Skjálfandafljót, this cascade is both scenic and steeped in legend. According to local lore, Þorgeir threw pagan statues into the falls when Iceland adopted Christianity, giving the waterfall its name.

Your guide provides context about why this site is historically significant, helping you picture the moment that changed Iceland’s spiritual landscape. We loved the way guides share stories that bring the scenery to life. The 40-minute stop allows for some excellent photo opportunities and a brief walk around the viewpoint. As one reviewer noted, “The waterfall was stunning, and the stories from the guide made it even more memorable.”

Stepping Back in Time at Laufás Turf House

Next, you visit Laufás, a historic site that offers a peek into Icelandic life before modern conveniences. The turf house, dating from the Middle Ages and rebuilt in the 19th century, is a rare example of traditional Icelandic architecture. Walking through its rooms, you’ll see artifacts and learn how families lived, cooked, and worshipped within these thick, turf-covered walls.

The guided tour of Laufás takes about 50 minutes, giving you ample opportunity to explore the old church and the artifacts on display. Many reviews highlight the fascination of stepping into a house that’s been part of Iceland’s history for centuries. One visitor shared, “The turf houses were so interesting—they really gave insight into how people coped with the weather and isolation.”

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The Enchanting Christmas House

For a dash of magic, the tour takes you to the Christmas House, a year-round attraction that looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. Inside, you’ll find festive scents, holiday music, and a cozy log fire, making it a welcoming break from the colder outdoors. The shop sells holiday-themed items, but some reviews mention that prices are high and not always worth the expense. Still, the atmosphere is delightful, especially if you enjoy holiday magic or have children.

Be sure to look for Gryla, the troll mother of the Icelandic Yule Lads, hidden in her cave—a fun detail that kids and adults alike enjoy. About 40 minutes are spent here, enough for a quick browse, photos, and soaking in the festive ambiance.

Final Sightseeing and Return to Akureyri

The final leg is a short bus ride back to town, with some quick commentary from your guide about Akureyri’s sights and culture. Many reviewers appreciated the short sightseeing tour of Akureyri, noting it’s an easy way to get a snapshot of Iceland’s northern city.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Transportation and Comfort

All transportation is in a mini bus, making for an intimate and manageable group size. Pickup is arranged from multiple locations, including hotels and the cruise port, saving you time and hassle. The drive between sites is relatively short, so you’ll spend more time exploring and less time on the road.

Duration and Timing

This tour lasts around four hours, making it suitable for a half-day activity. Exact start times vary, so checking availability ahead of your trip is wise. The schedule is tight but well-organized, with enough time at each site to appreciate the highlights without feeling rushed.

Cost and Value

At $118 per person, this tour offers good value considering the included entrance fees and guided storytelling. You won’t need to pay extra for tickets or transport, which simplifies budgeting.

Suitability for Travelers

This experience is perfect for families, history buffs, or anyone short on time but eager to see Iceland’s key sights. It’s also suitable for cruise passengers who want a rundown without the expense and hassle of additional arrangements. If you’re someone who prefers to linger longer or explore more deeply, you might find the limited time at each site a bit frustrating.

What Past Travelers Say

With a 4.5-star rating based on 148 reviews, this tour consistently earns praise for its knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and good value. Many comment on how guides like Lilja and Jon made the experience both informative and fun, blending stories, humor, and local legends seamlessly.

One reviewer said, “Our guide Jon was the absolute best,” highlighting how a good guide can elevate the experience. Others appreciated the opportunity to see beautiful waterfalls and historic turf houses without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Some minor criticisms include the limited time at the Christmas House and turf homes—reviewers suggest a bit more time at these stops would improve the experience. Also, a few noted that prices at the Christmas shop were high, which is worth keeping in mind if you plan to browse extensively.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Iceland’s natural beauty and cultural heritage without overextending your schedule. It’s best suited for travelers who want a guided, informative experience that combines stunning landscapes with local stories and history. Perfect if you’re visiting Akureyri on a cruise or have limited time but still want to see key sights with ease and comfort.

If you love stories that add context to beautiful scenery, and you’re traveling with family or friends looking for a relaxed yet engaging activity, this tour is a great pick. The price, including entrance fees and guided commentary, offers solid value for what you get—especially considering the positive reviews about the guide’s knowledge and humor.

While it’s a quick trip, it hits many of Iceland’s highlights in a way that feels manageable and enjoyable, leaving you with plenty of memorable moments and photo ops.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and breaks.

What sites will I visit?
You’ll see Godafoss waterfall, Laufás Turf House, and the Christmas House.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included at multiple locations in Akureyri and the cruise port.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the fee for Laufás Museum and heritage site is covered.

What is the guide like?
Guides are knowledgeable and engaging, sharing stories, legends, and humor based on reviews.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, especially with its fun stories and visual attractions.

How much does it cost?
$118 per person, which includes all entrance fees and transportation.

Can I buy souvenirs at the Christmas House?
Yes, but some reviews mention prices are high. Great for holiday magic, less so for bargain shopping.

Is the tour flexible?
The schedule is fairly tight, so it’s best to plan for a quick visit at each site.

Would you recommend this tour?
Definitely for those wanting a concise, guided overview of Iceland’s highlights in the Akureyri area, especially if you enjoy stories and scenic views.

In the end, this tour combines the best of Iceland’s natural beauty with a touch of local culture, all wrapped in friendly guidance. It’s a practical choice for travelers seeking value, storytelling, and a taste of Icelandic heritage—making your time in Akureyri both memorable and fun.

You can check availability for your dates here: