Akureyri is often called the Capital of North Iceland, and for good reason. This lively town offers more than just stunning views; it’s a hub for fantastic lunch experiences that combine great food with unforgettable scenery. Whether you’re craving a relaxing meal after exploring geothermal landscapes or want a full-day adventure into the wilds, Akureyri’s tours deliver. We particularly like the Akureyri Port: Lake Mývatn & Goðafoss Guided Tour with Lunch for its mix of natural beauty, cultural highlights, and a well-timed break for local cuisine. This tour hits the sweet spot for travelers who want to see some of Iceland’s most iconic sights without feeling rushed.
While Akureyri itself is a charming place for casual lunches in cozy cafes, our list below focuses on tours that offer a comprehensive day of sightseeing combined with a sit-down meal. These excursions are perfect if you want your lunch to be part of an immersive adventure—think waterfalls, geothermal areas, and lava fields—all with the added benefit of a good meal included.
1. Akureyri Port: Lake Mývatn & Goðafoss Guided Tour with Lunch
At number 1 on our list, the Akureyri Port: Lake Mývatn & Goðafoss Guided Tour with Lunch offers a full-day adventure that beautifully combines Iceland’s geothermal wonders with a relaxing meal. This tour is a favorite because it balances sightseeing, learning, and eating. It kicks off with a visit to the stunning Goðafoss waterfall, where the power of nature is undeniable. Then, you’ll explore the surreal pseudo craters of Skútustaðagígar and stand on the continental rift between Europe and North America—an experience that’s both humbling and fascinating.
What makes this tour stand out is the lunch stop at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy Icelandic fare away from the big bus crowds. The guide is praised for being knowledgeable and engaging, sharing stories about the area’s volcanic activity and myths. The highlight for many is Dimmuborgir’s lava fields, which look like a landscape from another planet.
This tour is perfect for those who want a well-rounded day with plenty of photo opportunities and historical insights. The reviews consistently mention the “informative guide” and “beautiful scenery,” making it a reliable choice for anyone eager to combine natural wonders with a good meal.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking a full day of scenic highlights and authentic local food, all within a manageable six-and-a-half-hour schedule.
2. From Akureyri Port: Diamond Circle Guided Day Trip w/ Lunch
Number 2 is the Diamond Circle Guided Day Trip with Lunch, a longer, more comprehensive tour ideal for those wanting to see more of North Iceland’s diverse landscapes. This itinerary includes the mighty Dettifoss waterfall, known as Europe’s most powerful, as well as Lake Mývatn’s geothermal areas. The trip also takes you to Husavík, famous for whale watching and a charming seaside vibe.
The tour’s highlight is the lunch in Husavík, where you’ll enjoy local seafood and get a taste of Icelandic hospitality. The guide, Kjartan, is lauded for being both funny and very informative, bringing stories and legends to life. The route covers geothermal hotspots like Námaskarð and the dramatic Ásbyrgi canyon, making every stop a photo-worthy moment.
While the 8-hour duration might be a long day, it’s packed with stunning sights and cultural stories. The reviews praise the “professional guide” and “the breathtaking scenery,” making it perfect for travelers who want a depth of experience that touches on geology, folklore, and nature.
Bottom Line: A great choice if you want to maximize your time and see Iceland’s diverse scenery along with a hearty, well-earned lunch.
3. From Akureyri: Mývatn Lake & Goðafoss Cruise Ship Tour + Lunch
For a slightly shorter but equally rich experience, the Myvatn Lake & Goðafoss Cruise Ship Tour + Lunch combines sightseeing with a cruise aspect, making it unique among the options. This 6-hour tour offers a chance to explore the geothermal craters, mud pools, and lava fields of Lake Mývatn, plus the iconic Godafoss waterfall.
What sets this tour apart is its cruise component—ideal for travelers who want a different perspective of Iceland’s waterways and waterfalls. The itinerary includes stops at the pseudo craters of Skútustaðagígar, the Hverir geothermal area, and the Dimmuborgir lava formations, with a stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Reviewers appreciate the “informative guides” and the “beautiful scenery,” especially during the boat ride.
This tour is perfect if you’re looking for a more intimate experience compared to larger bus trips, and the small-group setting makes it easier to ask questions and take photos. The overall value is high, considering the variety of landscapes covered in just six hours.
Bottom Line: An excellent pick for those who want a scenic, engaging tour with a cruise element and a good meal included.
How to Choose Your Lunch Tour in Akureyri
When deciding between these options, consider your time investment, interests, and how much scenery you want to cover. The Akureyri Port: Lake Mývatn & Goðafoss Guided Tour with Lunch appeals to travelers wanting a well-rounded, mid-length day with iconic waterfalls and geothermal sites. If you’re after a longer exploration of North Iceland with more dramatic landscapes, the Diamond Circle Guided Day Trip offers a full immersion.
For those who prefer a mix of land and water views, or want to skip long drives and enjoy a cruise, the Myvatn Lake & Goðafoss Cruise Ship Tour + Lunch provides a distinctive experience.
In terms of practical advice, booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons. Think about your physical stamina—some tours involve walking over uneven terrain, while others are mostly bus-based. Budget-wise, all tours offer great value considering the included sights and meals, but longer trips naturally cost more.
In summary, Akureyri offers a rich palette of lunch-inclusive tours that showcase Iceland’s extraordinary landscapes and culture. For a balanced experience, the Akureyri Port: Lake Mývatn & Goðafoss Guided Tour with Lunch is hard to beat for its combination of scenery, story, and savory break. If you have more time and want to explore further, the Diamond Circle tour provides a deep dive into the region’s natural drama. For a shorter, water-included adventure, the Myvatn cruise tour offers a fresh perspective.
No matter which you pick, these tours will leave you with a full belly and a full heart—ready to enjoy everything else Akureyri has to offer. Book early to secure your spot and make the most of your time in this stunning part of Iceland.