Akureyri: Goðafoss, Laufas & The Christmas House Combo Tour

If you’re visiting northern Iceland and want a taste of its natural beauty alongside a touch of local history and holiday magic, this Akureyri combo tour offers a charming snapshot of the region’s highlights. Though only four hours long, it packs in some of the most iconic sites, making it a popular choice for cruise travelers, families, or anyone seeking a balanced mix of outdoor scenery and cultural insight.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the quality of the guides, who bring stories and humor to life, and the stunning scenery at Goðafoss. The only real caveat is the short amount of time spent at each stop—if you’re a detail-oriented traveler craving a leisurely exploration, you might find it a bit rushed. Still, for a quick overview that hits the high points, this experience hits the mark. It’s well-suited to those wanting a convenient, engaging introduction to Akureyri’s most beloved sights without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Highlights include iconic waterfalls, historic turf houses, and a festive Christmas House.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling, adding depth to each stop.
• The price offers good value for transportation, entry fees, and a memorable experience.
• The short duration means a busy itinerary, so expect a quick-paced trip.
• Family-friendly with a mix of natural beauty, history, and holiday magic.
• Suitable for cruise passengers, first-time visitors, or those with limited time in Iceland.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour is a neat package for those who want to see some of Iceland’s most recognizable sights without spending an entire day on the road. It’s not crafted for deep dives into each location but rather to give a well-rounded taste of what makes the region special.

We loved the balance of outdoor adventure and cultural history. The guide’s storytelling is a highlight, with many reviewers mentioning how much they learned about Icelandic folklore, traditions, and the stories behind each site. The stunning views of Goðafoss—sometimes called the “Waterfall of the Gods”—are a natural star here, and the historic Laufás Turf Houses provide a glimpse into traditional Icelandic life.

One aspect that travelers consistently appreciate is the value for money. For around $118, you get transportation, guided commentary, and access to several sites, making it an efficient choice for those with limited time.

However, a point to keep in mind is the short stops at each site—some reviews suggest that spending more time at the Turf House and Christmas House could make the experience even richer. If you’re a slow traveler or love taking your time with historical sites, this might feel a bit rushed.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Departure

The tour kicks off with a pickup from over 20 convenient locations in Akureyri, from hotels to guesthouses and cruise terminals. The pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure, so arriving on time is essential. This setup makes it easy for cruise passengers and hotel guests to join without hassle.

Drive to Goðafoss

The drive to the famous waterfall takes around 40 minutes, giving you some scenic Icelandic countryside views along the way. Your guide offers commentary, sharing stories about the site and answering questions. This part of the trip helps set the tone for the natural beauty ahead.

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Visiting Goðafoss

Once at Goðafoss, you’ll spend about 40 minutes exploring. This waterfall is awe-inspiring—its history is tied to Iceland’s conversion to Christianity, as legend has it that a chieftain threw pagan statues into the water, symbolically adopting the new faith. The sight of the roaring falls, especially during winter months when the spray might be frosted over, is unforgettable.

Many visitors note how pictures don’t do it justice. You’ll want your camera ready, but also take a moment to simply stand in awe. The guide will share stories of its significance, making the experience more meaningful than just a photo stop.

Tour of Laufás Turf House

Next, you’ll head to Laufás, a historic turf farm dating from the Middle Ages, with structures built and reconstructed in the 19th century. You’ll have about 50 minutes here to walk through the old turf buildings, see artifacts, and learn how Icelanders lived off the land.

The church at Laufás is also notable—its pulpit from 1698 offers a tangible link to past generations. Many reviews highlight how interesting and authentic the turf houses feel, providing a tangible connection to Iceland’s rural heritage. However, some mention that more time at Laufás would be welcome, as it’s a fascinating glimpse into traditional life.

The Christmas House

The highlight for many families and holiday enthusiasts is the Magical House of Christmas. Open year-round, this attraction resembles a fairytale scene, complete with twinkling lights, festive scents, and holiday music. Even in summer, it’s a whimsical escape. Inside, you’ll find souvenirs, seasonal treats, and the chance to spot Gryla, the troll mother of the Yule Lads, hidden in her cave.

Some reviewers comment that prices at the Christmas House are high, but the atmosphere is charming enough to justify the expense for many. It’s a fun, light-hearted finish to the tour, especially for children or those young at heart.

Return to Akureyri

The return trip lasts about 10 minutes, giving a quick overview of the city as the bus heads back to your starting point. Many travelers appreciate this brief sightseeing tour of Akureyri itself, which complements the day’s highlights.

Experience Quality & Practicalities

The transportation in a mini-bus means a comfortable, intimate atmosphere, ideal for small groups. The guides are highly praised for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling skills, making the journey enjoyable and educational. The entrance fees for Laufás are included, so there are no surprises on the cost front.

Duration of 4 hours may seem short, but it’s enough to cover the main sights without feeling overly rushed. The price point of $118 per person strikes a reasonable balance, especially considering the guide’s local insights and the entrance fees included.

You’ll need to bring your own refreshments, as food and drinks aren’t included, but there are plenty of options at the Christmas House if you want a snack.

Review Highlights from Travelers

Many reviewers rave about the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the stories. One reviewer describes their guide as “fantastic,” blending humor with insight. Others mention how beautiful the waterfalls are and how interesting the turf houses provided a tangible connection to Iceland’s past.

Some comments reflect on the short time at certain stops, wishing for more time to explore freely. Nevertheless, the overall consensus is that the tour provides a well-rounded, enjoyable glimpse of Akureyri’s highlights.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is an excellent choice for families, first-time visitors, or cruise travelers looking to maximize their short time in Iceland. It’s perfect for those who enjoy outdoor scenery combined with cultural stories and don’t mind a fast-paced schedule.

If you’re after deep historical exploration or want ample time at each site, this might feel a bit hurried. However, if your goal is to see iconic sights and get a taste of Icelandic charm without a hefty price tag, this tour offers great value and a fun, memorable experience.

The guides’ enthusiasm and the stunning scenery make this a worthwhile addition to any Iceland itinerary. It’s a straightforward, authentic way to connect with some of the best features of northern Iceland—without the fuss of extensive planning or long drives.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from over 20 locations in Akureyri, starting about 15 minutes before departure. Just be ready outside your accommodation or cruise terminal.

How long do I spend at each stop?
You’ll have approximately 40 minutes at Goðafoss, 50 minutes at Laufás, and around 40 minutes at the Christmas House. The schedule is tight, so expect a quick look at each site.

Are entrance fees covered?
Yes, the entrance fee for Laufás Heritage site and museum is included in the price.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing suitable for Icelandic weather. Since refreshments aren’t included, consider bringing water or snacks, especially if you plan to explore the sites thoroughly.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. It’s family-friendly, with engaging stories and visually appealing sites like the waterfalls and Christmas House.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

This Akureyri combo tour offers a lively, well-organized way to experience some of Iceland’s most beloved sights. With a knowledgeable guide, stunning scenery, and a bit of holiday magic, it’s a practical choice for those seeking a memorable, affordable day out in northern Iceland.

You can check availability for your dates here: