Half-Day Combo Tour to Goðafoss, Laufas and The Christmas House

Akureyri , Iceland

Half-Day Combo Tour to Goðafoss, Laufas and The Christmas House

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(146 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Our guides are fully qualified and have extensive knowledge of the area. Not only will you learn about the history, landscape and present day life on this tour you will also hear Icelandic folktales. This is a round trip through some of the most picturesque landscape in North Iceland.
The total tour length is 4 hours. All travel time is included in that length. We first drive for approximently 35 min to Goðafoss, then another 30 min to Laufas Turfhouse Museum. From Laufas there is then another 30 min drive to the beautiful Christmas House & Gardens. After visiting the Christmas house we drive a short sightseeing around the town of Akureyri before dropping the passenger off. This is a fully guided, informative and enjoyable tour, all entrance fee is included in the tour price.

Available options

Half-Day Combo Tour to Goðafoss, Laufas and The Christmas House

Pickup included

What's included

WiFi on board

All Fees and Taxes

Entrance to the museum

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

We drive past the Botanical garden and passengers can be droped off here at the end of the tour.

Stop 2

Godafoss waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland with easy access from both sides of the river. It is surrounded by stunning basalt columns.

The atmospheric and picturesque heritage site of Laufás is full of history with its large farmhouse and beautiful 19th Church. It has been the home of priests since at least 1047 until 1935 with the current priest still living on the premises. The house includes long corridors and many interconnected rooms. The current buildings are from the middle of the 19th century and furnished with household items and clothes from the period. One of Laufás characteristics is the Bridal room where brides prepared themselves for the big event. The existing church was built in 1865, among its special items is a pulpit from 1698.
Laufás Visitor Centre has a cosy atmosphere and additional information about nature, wildlife and history of the vicinity. Local handcraft and souvenir shop and refreshments.
The old turf house is part of the National Museum’s Historic Buildings Collection.

Open all year round, this magical house and garden looks like it came straight from a book of fairy tales. Outside in the garden there are plenty of hidden things for you to find and enjoy. Upon entering the Christmas House you are greeted with the warmth of a log fire and the songs and the scents of the festive season even in the middle of summer. Try to find the Icelandic Yule lad´s troll mother (Gryla) hidden in her cave. The Christmas House is a magical place to visit, all year round. Every corner is filled with Christmas magic so take your time to look around. Next to the Christmas house is a wonderful shop where you can sample local jams or buy a souvenir to take home.
Great way to hear about and experience some local Christmas traditions.

At the end of the day we drive you around the town of Akureyri for a short guided tour. Highlights include the old town, Botanical gardens, Church of Akureyri and the town centre. Let your driver know if you would like to disembark at any of these locations.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

116 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

30 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The total tour length is 4 hours. All travel time is included in that length. We first drive for approximently 35 min to Goðafoss, then another 30 min from there to Laufas Turfhouse Museum, and from there another 30 min to the Christmas House. From the Christmas house we do a short sightseeing around Akureyri before dropping the passenger off.

Meeting point

Please wait for our guide/driver at the main entrance to Hof Cultural & Conference Centre in Akureyri.
Pick up starts 15 minutes before the departure time of the tour. Our vehicles are marked with our name: The Traveling Viking

Important notes

Pick up starts 15 minutes before the departure time of the tour. Our vehicles are marked
with our name: The Traveling Viking

About Akureyri

Akureyri is a charming and vibrant city in North Iceland, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural scene, and mild climate. Often referred to as the 'Capital of the North,' it serves as a gateway to some of Iceland's most breathtaking landscapes, including waterfalls, geothermal pools, and the dramatic Arctic wilderness.

Top Attractions

Akureyri Botanical Garden

A beautiful botanical garden featuring a variety of plants from different climates, including a greenhouse with tropical plants.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Akureyrarkirkja

A striking church with a unique design, known for its tall steeple and beautiful interior.

Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations welcome for tower access)

Hof Cultural and Conference Center

A modern cultural center hosting concerts, exhibitions, and events throughout the year.

Cultural Varies by event Varies by event

Mývatn Nature Baths

A geothermal spa with warm, mineral-rich waters, similar to the Blue Lagoon but with a more natural setting.

Nature Half-day to full day Approximately 5000-6000 ISK

Goðafoss

A powerful and beautiful waterfall known for its dramatic drop and rich history.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plokkfiskur

A traditional Icelandic fish stew made with mashed potatoes, white fish, onions, and béchamel sauce.

Dinner Contains fish and dairy

Hákarl

Fermented shark, a traditional Icelandic delicacy with a strong flavor and ammonia-like smell.

Snack Contains fish, not suitable for those sensitive to strong smells

Skyr

A thick, protein-rich Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product, often served with berries or cream.

Dessert Contains dairy, can be vegetarian or vegan if made with plant-based milk

Rúgbrauð

Dense, dark rye bread traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat.

Breakfast Vegan, contains gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking Whale watching Geothermal bathing Scenic drives Strolling through the city Visiting museums Attending cultural events Exploring historical sites

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the most popular time to visit Akureyri, with long days, mild temperatures, and abundant wildlife. This is the best time for hiking, whale watching, and exploring the outdoors.

10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) 50°F to 59°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Icelandic
Widely spoken: English, Danish, German
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Icelandic Króna (ISK)

Time Zone

GMT+0

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Akureyri is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious when driving in winter conditions
• Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Akureyri Airport • 3 km (1.9 miles) from city center

By bus

Akureyri Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent schedules.

Taxis

Available • Apps: No specific apps, but taxis can be hailed or booked by phone

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Brekkubær Glerá

Day trips

Mývatn

45 km (28 miles) • Half day to full day

A scenic lake known for its geothermal activity, birdlife, and stunning landscapes.

Goðafoss

60 km (37 miles) • Half day

A powerful and historic waterfall with a dramatic drop and rich cultural significance.

Húsavík

80 km (50 miles) • Full day

A charming coastal town known for its whale watching opportunities and beautiful surroundings.

Festivals

Akureyri Folk Festival • Mid-June Winter Lights Festival • Late January to early February Akureyri Christmas Market • Late November to early December

Pro tips

Visit the Akureyri Botanical Garden for a taste of the tropics in the Arctic
Climb the tower of Akureyrarkirkja for a panoramic view of the city
Experience the Midnight Sun or the Northern Lights, depending on the season
Try local dishes like plokkfiskur and hákarl for an authentic Icelandic culinary experience
Book whale watching tours in advance, especially during peak season