Exploring Iceland’s Waterfalls and Attractions in Style: A Review of the Godafoss Express Classy Round Trip
If you’re planning a trip to Akureyri and want to experience Iceland’s stunning natural sights without the hassle of navigating or large tour groups, the Godafoss Express Classy Round Trip might just catch your eye. This tour offers a short, two-and-a-half-hour journey, but packs in some of the most photogenic spots in the region, including the iconic Godafoss Waterfall and the charming Botanical Garden of Akureyri.
What immediately stands out about this experience is the luxurious Mercedes Sprinter bus that keeps the group small and cozy—giving you that feeling of traveling comfortably and privately. Plus, the onboard service includes Italian espresso coffee—a small detail that makes the journey feel special. Speaking two languages, Italian and English, the guides aim to make everyone feel at home.
That said, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour’s short duration means you’ll want to prioritize what interests you most—whether it’s the waterfall, the botanical gardens, or even the optional drop-offs like the geothermal Forrest Lagoon or museums. It suits travelers who appreciate quality over quantity and prefer a more personalized touch.
If you’re visiting Akureyri and want a quick, flexible, and comfortable day trip, this tour offers a solid option. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with a small group or prefer a more intimate experience rather than large coach tours. Now, let’s break down what makes this tour worth considering, along with some practical insights.
Key Points

- Private small-group experience with a luxury Mercedes bus for maximum comfort
- Flexible drop-off options at key attractions, without extra charge
- Onboard Italian espresso and professional guides in Italian and English
- Efficient itinerary designed to maximize sightseeing in a short time
- Convenient meeting points at Laufásgata and return back to the ship or chosen locations
- WiFi onboard allows you to share your Iceland adventures instantly
Overview of the Tour

The Godafoss Express is designed as a quick yet personalized adventure from Akureyri, ideal for cruise passengers or visitors short on time. You’ll be picked up from Laufásgata, a central meeting point, and transported in a luxury Mercedes Sprinter bus that seats only eight—making the journey feel exclusive, even if the price is quite reasonable at $108 per person.
The tour’s core highlight is Godafoss Waterfall, often called the “Waterfall of the Gods,” thanks to its dramatic cascades and historical significance. But what makes this experience stand out is the option to customize your return—you can choose to be dropped off at the waterfall itself, or at other attractions like the Forrest Lagoon, Aviation Museum, or Motorcycle Museum, depending on your interests.
The experience lasts about 2.5 hours, which is enough to see the main sights without feeling rushed. You’ll enjoy scenic views along the way, with stops for photos and brief explanations from your guides. If you wish to stay longer at any site, you can simply hop on the next shuttle back, provided you inform your driver.
Planning more time in Akureyri? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Journey and Its Stops

The tour kicks off at Laufásgata, the designated starting point, where you’ll meet your guides and board the luxury Mercedes bus. From there, it’s about 30 minutes of driving to the first scenic stop—giving you time to settle in and enjoy the onboard amenities, like Italian espresso and WiFi, while the guides set the tone for an informative ride.
Next, the bus makes its way towards Godafoss Waterfall, which takes roughly 40 minutes. The falls are truly a sight to behold—powerful, with a misty spray that’s perfect for photos. The guides will share insights into the waterfall’s cultural and historical importance, enriching your experience.
Once at Godafoss, you’ll have about 40 minutes to explore. We loved the way the guides balanced giving us enough time to appreciate the views and take photos, without feeling hurried. This is where the reviews come into play; one traveler mentioned a driver being late in returning, which highlights the importance of punctuality, but overall, the experience is well-organized.
After the waterfall, the bus heads back towards Akureyri for approximately 35 minutes, with plenty of scenic views en route. Here is where the flexibility shines—you can choose to be dropped off at the Botanical Garden (which we think is a lovely spot for a relaxed walk and some local flora), or opt for other attractions like the Forrest Lagoon, Aviation Museum, or Motorcycle Museum at no extra charge.
The botanical garden is a delightful peaceful spot to unwind after the waterfall, and the nearby Catholic Church and Lutheran Cathedral are worth a quick walk to admire their architecture. On the return, you’ll also pass the Art Museum and city center, giving you a taste of Akureyri’s local charm before heading back to your cruise ship or accommodation.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The small group and luxury transportation ensure you’re not just another face in a crowd, which is a big plus for those who value comfort and intimacy. The onboard Italian espresso adds a touch of European flair, making the journey more enjoyable. Guides speaking both Italian and English mean you’re well looked after, no matter your language preference.
The multiple drop-off options are a thoughtful addition—whether you want to relax in the Forrest Lagoon geothermal baths, visit a museum, or head straight back to your ship, this flexibility adds value that many standard tours lack.
The short duration of 2.5 hours makes this a practical choice for cruise days, especially if you want to see the highlights without committing a whole day. Plus, the WiFi onboard lets you share photos instantly, which is always a nice perk.
The Realities and Considerations

While the experience is generally praised, a few travelers have noted logistical hiccups. For example, one review mentions the driver being late in picking them up, so punctuality can occasionally be an issue. It’s wise to arrive at the meeting point a little earlier than scheduled to avoid any stress.
The short window at each stop means you should prioritize what interests you most—whether it’s the waterfall, the botanical garden, or museums. If you’re someone who prefers to linger longer at sites, this tour might feel a bit rushed.
Price-wise, $108 per person for a private-ish, small-group tour with multiple flexible drop-offs and onboard amenities is quite competitive, especially considering the luxury transport. But keep in mind, it’s designed for efficiency rather than in-depth exploration.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for cruise passengers or visitors who want a quick taste of Iceland’s highlights without sacrificing comfort. It’s also well-suited for small groups looking for a personalized touch, or those who appreciate the convenience of flexible drop-offs.
Travelers who enjoy scenic waterfalls, cultural sites, and cozy transport will find this a satisfying option. However, if you prefer to spend more time exploring each site or are traveling with children requiring longer breaks or more space, you might want to consider a different, more extensive tour.
Final Thoughts

The Godafoss Express Classy Round Trip offers a balanced mix of comfort, flexibility, and scenic beauty. It’s a neat option for those who want to see some of Iceland’s most photogenic spots without the hassle of big group tours or long days on the road.
The small-group luxury transport, combined with flexible drop-offs and onboard amenities, elevates this experience beyond a typical sightseeing bus. Plus, the guides’ bilingual service ensures clarity and local insight.
While it’s not for those seeking extensive exploration or a slow-paced day, it’s a smart choice if you’re after a short, stylish, and customizable tour that hits the highlights and respects your time.
Godafoss Express Classy Round Trip Multiple Drop Off Choice
“driver was really late in picking us back up from Godafloss.”
FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
Since the tour is private and small, it can accommodate families comfortably. The short duration and the scenic stops make it suitable for children, but consider their patience with quick stops and possibly cold weather at the waterfall.
Can I choose where to be dropped off at the end?
Yes, you can select your preferred location for drop-off, including options like Forrest Lagoon, museums, or directly back to the ship—all at no extra charge.
What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak both Italian and English, so you can choose your preferred language for explanations.
How long do I have at each stop?
You’ll have about 40 minutes at Godafoss, and the total tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours. If you wish to stay longer at the waterfall, you can join the next shuttle back at your convenience.
Is WiFi available during the tour?
Yes, WiFi is provided onboard, so you can share your photos and stay connected during the trip.
What should I bring?
Bring your camera, warm clothing if weather is cold, and any personal essentials. The tour is designed for comfort, but Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable!
If you’re looking for a relaxed yet scenic way to experience some of Iceland’s best sights around Akureyri, this tour hits a good balance. It’s best for travelers who appreciate quality, flexibility, and a touch of luxury—without the need for a full-day commitment.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Akureyri
- Lake Mývatn Classic Tour from Akureyri
- Akureyri: 3-Hour Classic Whale Watching Tour by Ship
- Akureyri Port: Lake Mývatn & Goðafoss Waterfall Day Trip
- Dettifoss Waterfall, Asbyrgi and Lake Myvatn Tour from Husavík
- Port Akureyri: Godafoss Waterfall, Laufas & Forest Lagoon
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More Akureyri experiences we've covered
- Godafoss Express Classy Round Trip Multiple Drop Off Choice
- Akureyri: 3-Hour Classic Whale Watching Tour by Ship
- Akureyri Port: Lake Mývatn & Goðafoss Waterfall Day Trip
- Dettifoss Waterfall, Asbyrgi and Lake Myvatn Tour from Husavík
- Port Akureyri: Godafoss Waterfall, Laufas & Forest Lagoon
- Akureyri: Hraundrangi Peak 10-Hour Private Climb
- Reykjavik: 8-Day Iceland Ring Road Guided Small Group Tour
- From Akureyri Port: Godafoss Waterfall & Forest Lagoon tour
- Goðafoss Waterfall, Santa Claus House and Forest Lagoon
- Akureyri: Goðafoss Waterfall and Turf House Tour
- Akureyri: 3-Day Northern Lights, Whales, & Lagoon Tour
- 4×4 MiniBus Tour Lake Myvatn, Dettifoss,Selfoss, Godafoss and Nature Baths



