Akureyri: Goðafoss, Laufas & The Christmas House Combo Tour

Imagine seeing some of Iceland’s most iconic sights in just four hours. That’s what this Akureyri combo tour promises—visiting the stunning Goðafoss waterfall, exploring historic turf houses at Laufás, and getting a dose of holiday magic at the Christmas House. It’s a solid pick if you’re short on time but want a taste of Iceland’s natural beauty and cultural quirks.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances scenic highlights with cultural insights. The guide’s storytelling adds a layer of authenticity, making the stops more than just photo ops. Plus, the price point—around $118 per person—feels reasonable given the variety of experiences packed into those four hours. However, a potential downside is that time at each stop can be a bit tight, especially at the Christmas House. If you crave in-depth exploration, you might find yourself wishing for a little more time.

This tour suits travelers who want an efficient, well-rounded glimpse of Iceland—whether you’re on a cruise, have a tight schedule, or just prefer a leisurely overview without too much hassle. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike tend to find it rewarding, especially with a guide known for adding humor and local flavor.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stable value for the price: At $118, you get a guided visit to several top sites with entrance fees included.
• Expert guides make a difference: Reviews frequently highlight knowledgeable guides who share engaging stories.
• Great for a quick overview: The itinerary offers a diverse experience in just four hours.
• Time may be limited at stops: Some feel that more time at certain locations, like the turf houses or Christmas House, would improve the experience.
• Well-organized logistics: Pickup and drop-off points are convenient and clearly communicated.
• Ideal for families and first-timers: The mix of scenery, culture, and holiday magic makes it a friendly choice.

This four-hour adventure takes you through some of the most photogenic and culturally significant spots around Akureyri. It’s a tour designed for those who want a broad snapshot of Icelandic scenery and heritage without committing to a full day or multiple excursions.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start with Hotel Pickup
You’ll be collected from one of over 20 pickup locations in Akureyri or nearby, starting about 15 minutes before the scheduled departure. This ease of pickup is definitely a plus whether you’re staying at a hotel, guesthouse, or even arriving by cruise ship. The transportation is in a comfortable mini bus, making for a relaxed ride.

Visit to Goðafoss Waterfall
The highlight of many trips to Iceland, Goðafoss lives up to its reputation. Located on the Skjálfandafljót river, this waterfall isn’t just scenic—it’s steeped in history. The story goes that a chieftain named Þorgeir threw pagan statues into the falls after Iceland converted to Christianity, which is why it’s called the “Waterfall of the Gods.” Your guide will share these stories and insights, enriching what you see.

Time at the Waterfall
Expect around 40 minutes here, giving ample opportunity for photos and a walk around the viewing areas. Reviewers mention that they appreciated the guide’s commentary, making this stop more meaningful than just snapping photos. However, some felt that this time could be extended to truly soak it all in.

Visit to Laufás Heritage Site
Next, you’ll head to Laufás, a historic turf farm dating back to the Middle Ages. The farmhouse and church are real windows into Icelandic life from the past. The buildings, built with turf and timber, are a fascinating look at how Icelanders adapted to their environment. It’s a perfect spot for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

Exploring Laufás
You’ll have about 50 minutes here, which includes guided and self-guided opportunities. Visitors have enjoyed learning about traditional Icelandic home life and seeing artifacts from the early 20th century. The church with its pulpits from 1698 is especially charming and offers a glimpse into the region’s spiritual life.

The Christmas House Experience
The final stop is the Magical House of Christmas, open year-round and designed to feel like stepping into a fairy tale. Inside, you’re greeted by cozy fires, holiday music, and the scent of baked goods—yes, even in summer. It’s a whimsical place, especially fun if you’re traveling with children, although many adults find it charming too.

Shopping and Free Time at Christmas House
You’ll have around 40 minutes to browse the shop, take photos, and enjoy the festive ambiance. Reviewers note that while the Christmas House is delightful, the items are quite expensive and not necessarily of the best quality. Some felt that more time here would allow for better browsing or a more relaxed visit.

Return to Akureyri
The tour wraps up with a short bus ride back, and hopefully, you’ll arrive feeling like you’ve seen a good slice of Iceland without feeling rushed.

The Waterfall: Goðafoss

This is one of Iceland’s most photographed waterfalls—and for good reason. Its wide, horseshoe shape and roaring waters make it an impressive sight. During our review, we found that most visitors agree: the waterfall is mesmerizing. Several reviews mention how stunning the views are, and how the story behind its name adds a cultural layer.

One reviewer said, “Very interesting tour, especially Godafoss waterfall,” capturing the overall sentiment. The water’s flow over the basaltic rocks creates a powerful visual, perfect for photography. Plus, with about 40 minutes to enjoy it, you get a decent window to take pictures and absorb the scenery.

Laufás Heritage Site

This stop isn’t just about looking at old turf houses; it’s an insight into traditional Icelandic architecture and rural life. The buildings are well-preserved, and the artifacts displayed give a sense of what daily life looked like until the early 20th century. The church’s pulpit from 1698 is a standout feature, embodying the simplicity and resilience of Icelandic spiritual life.

Guests comment how interesting this site is, with one saying, “the turf houses were so interesting,” though some wished for a bit more time to explore. The site’s authenticity makes it a meaningful experience—especially for those interested in cultural heritage.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Christmas House

A highlight for many, the Christmas House is a fairy-tale-like venue, decorated with holiday cheer and full of whimsical ornaments. Even in summer, it evokes a cozy, festive atmosphere. Expect to see a hidden Griyla troll in her cave—adding a bit of local folklore fun.

While reviews note that the shopping prices are high and the quality of items varies, the overall experience is charming. Visitors love the atmosphere, the scents, and the warm fire, making it a perfect break from the outdoor stops.

This guided tour offers a great combination of natural beauty and cultural insight, all within a manageable four-hour window. The logistics are straightforward, with pickup and drop-off included, which makes it ideal for cruise passengers or travelers with limited time. The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, and the knowledgeable guides elevate the experience—many reviews praise their storytelling, humor, and local expertise.

Pricing at $118 might seem like a bit of an investment, but considering the entrance fees for Laufás are included and the convenience of transportation, it’s a fair deal. It’s especially good if you want a rundown without the hassle of planning multiple stops yourself.

Practical Tips

• Arrive 15 minutes early for pickup to ensure you’re ready.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking and exploring around the sites.
• Bring a camera or smartphone—the scenery is picture-worthy.
• Be aware that time at each stop is limited, so plan your photo-taking accordingly.
• If you’re visiting during peak season, expect some crowds, especially at the Christmas House.

If you’re after a well-rounded snapshot of Iceland’s highlights in a short period, this tour fits the bill. It’s particularly suited for cruise travelers, as it’s designed to fit into a few hours while still offering a meaningful taste of the region.

Families will enjoy the fun atmosphere at the Christmas House and the interesting historical sites. Couples and solo travelers who appreciate stories and scenic views will find this tour engaging. However, if you’re looking for deep dives or more time at each location, you might want to consider longer or more specialized options.

This Akureyri combo tour strikes a good balance between scenic beauty, cultural history, and holiday charm. The stops, from the roaring waters of Goðafoss to the traditional turf houses and fairy-tale Christmas House, provide a varied experience that’s both fun and educational. The guide’s storytelling makes each stop come alive, adding depth to what you see.

While the limited time at each site might leave some wishing for more, the overall value and ease of logistics make it a solid choice, especially for those with tight schedules or arriving on a cruise. The price reflects the convenience and quality of the experience, making it a cost-effective way to get a good feel for Iceland’s highlights.

In the end, this tour is best for curious travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, history, and a sprinkle of festive magic—all delivered with a friendly touch. Whether it’s your first trip to Iceland or a quick stopover, it offers a memorable taste of what makes this country so special.

Is breakfast or lunch included in this tour?
No, the tour does not include refreshments. Feel free to bring snacks or drinks if you think you might need them.

How long do we spend at each stop?
You’ll have around 40 minutes at Goðafoss, 50 minutes at Laufás, and 40 minutes at the Christmas House. The exact time may vary based on the day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the stops—especially the Christmas House—are family-friendly. Just keep in mind the limited time at each site.

What languages are guides available in?
The tour is conducted in English.

What if I want to cancel my booking?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking process is flexible with “Reserve now & pay later” options.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the entrance fee for Laufás Heritage Museum is included in the price.

If you’re after a beautiful, culturally interesting, and well-organized quick trip around some of Iceland’s most photogenic spots, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. It offers a great mix of scenery, stories, and holiday cheer—perfect for a memorable 4-hour adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: