Akureyri becomes especially charming during the Christmas season. Its cozy streets, festive markets, and stunning natural scenery create a magical backdrop for holiday adventures. What makes Akureyri stand out is the blend of Icelandic culture, striking landscapes, and warm holiday spirit. We particularly love the Christmas House experience for its enchanting seasonal charm and the chance to see Iceland’s iconic waterfalls and historic turf houses. These tours give travelers a genuine taste of the region’s traditions and natural beauty, all wrapped in holiday cheer. From visits to the impressive Goðafoss waterfall to exploring the Laufás heritage site, each experience offers a slice of Icelandic life that’s perfect for Christmas.
In this list, we cover a variety of tours suited to different interests and schedules. Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive half-day with all the classics or a shorter, more relaxed experience, there’s something for all. Our picks include scenic waterfalls, historic sites, festive Christmas houses, and even geothermal lagoon soaking — all wrapped into compact, memorable trips.
1. Akureyri: Goðafoss, Laufas & The Christmas House Combo Tour
This tour hits the highlights of Akureyri with a festive twist. For around $118 per person, you’ll spend about four hours exploring Iceland’s most famous waterfall, Goðafoss, the historic Laufás turf house, and the magical Christmas House. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines natural wonders with cultural heritage and holiday cheer.
What makes this tour stand out is the seamless combination of sightseeing and seasonal magic. You’ll visit Goðafoss (a 40-minute stop with guided insights), walk through the Laufás heritage site, and then enjoy free time at the Christmas House, where you can browse Christmas ornaments, enjoy festive decorations, and absorb the holiday atmosphere. The tour’s logistics are well-planned, with pickup from 20 locations around Akureyri — including hotels and hostels — and a manageable schedule that keeps the day lively but not rushed.
Reviewers praise the “very interesting tour, especially Godafoss waterfall,” and note the landscape and guide’s knowledge as highlights. Some mention that more time at Laufás and the Christmas House would be ideal, but overall, this tour offers great value for a blend of Icelandic history, scenic beauty, and holiday charm. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed experience with plenty of photo opportunities and festive shopping.
Bottom Line: This tour balances natural beauty, cultural insight, and Christmas magic, making it ideal for families, history lovers, and anyone wanting a festive introduction to Akureyri.
2. Akureyri: Goðafoss, Christmas House, and Forest Lagoon Tour
This five-star rated tour offers a full sensory experience, combining Iceland’s stunning waterfalls, a charming Christmas House, and a relaxing soak in the Forest Lagoon hot pools. For just four hours, you’ll explore iconic sights and unwind in geothermal comfort, making it perfect for winter days.
Starting with a transfer from six pickup points, the tour visits Goðafoss (a 40-minute photo stop), followed by a 45-minute transfer to the Christmas House. Here, you can wander through the garden and enjoy the holiday decorations. Then, it’s a short 15-minute drive to the Forest Lagoon, where you’ll spend about 75 minutes soaking in geothermal pools while enjoying mountain views. The lagoon’s thermal waters are a highlight, offering warmth and relaxation after a day of sightseeing.
Tour guide knowledge and the balance of activities make this tour appeal, especially for those seeking both adventure and leisure. The “discover the history of Goðafoss” and learn about the role of waterfalls in Icelandic history. The Lagoon’s setting is spectacular, and the hot tubs provide a perfect way to end the day.
Value-wise, this tour is competitive considering the inclusion of a geothermal lagoon experience, which normally costs extra outside a tour. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a combination of sightseeing and wellness, especially in winter.
Bottom Line: For those who love natural scenery and a relaxing hot pool experience, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable day out.
3. Half-Day Combo Tour to Goðafoss, Laufas and The Christmas House
If your time in Akureyri is limited but you want a taste of Icelandic culture and scenery, this half-day combo tour packs a lot into around four hours. For approximately $122, you’ll be chauffeured between Goðafoss, the Laufás heritage site, and the Christmas House, with all entrance fees included.
This tour’s strength is its ease of organization. You won’t need to worry about logistics, as transfers are included, and the guide handles everything. Highlights include the breathtaking waterfall, which you can admire from both sides of the river, and the Laufás turf house, famous for its history dating back to 1047 and its authentic 19th-century furnishings. The visit to Laufás also includes exploring the church built in 1865, with a pulpit dating from 1698.
Reviews commend the “fabulous waterfalls and trips,” and note the friendly guide and convenience of the all-inclusive package. Some wish there was more time at Laufás, but overall, it offers great value for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience in a short timeframe.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers with limited time who still want to see key sights and enjoy local history without sacrificing comfort.
How to Choose the Right Christmas Tour in Akureyri
When deciding, consider your interests, schedule, and budget. If you want a comprehensive experience that combines waterfalls, historic turf houses, and Christmas magic, the Akureyri: Goðafoss, Laufas & The Christmas House Combo Tour delivers a balanced mix. For those craving relaxation and scenic beauty, the Forest Lagoon offers a lovely geothermal soak alongside sightseeing. Meanwhile, if your time is tight but you still want a full taste of Icelandic culture, the Half-Day Combo Tour provides a straightforward way to see key highlights.
Think about your fitness level, as some tours involve walking or standing outside in cold weather, and whether you’d prefer a more leisurely experience or a packed day. Booking early is wise, especially during the busy Christmas season, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Akureyri offers a range of Christmas experiences that beautifully showcase Iceland’s natural wonders and cultural traditions. For a full, festive day, the combo tours with waterfalls, historic sites, and Christmas magic are hard to beat. If relaxation is your goal, soaking in the Forest Lagoon makes for a memorable holiday highlight.
Whether you’re after the comprehensive sightseeing of the first tour, the relaxing hot springs, or the quick but rich half-day experience, these options mean you won’t miss out on the magic of Christmas in Akureyri. Book early, bundle up, and enjoy a truly Icelandic holiday adventure.