Akureyri: Goðafoss, Laufás Turfhouse & Christmas House Tour

Summary

Goðafoss waterfall, turf houses & festive magic near Akureyri

You’ll hear Goðafoss before you see it—and feel its spray on your skin. Wander through Laufás’ turf corridors where history feels close enough to touch. Then step into Akureyri’s Christmas House for scents of cinnamon and woodsmoke—even in summer. It’s four hours that somehow linger longer than you’d expect.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I heard was the rush—like distant applause—before we even saw Goðafoss. Our guide, Jón, grinned as we stepped out of the minibus into that sharp Icelandic air. The waterfall wasn’t just loud, it was alive; mist hit my face and I could smell wet stone and something green underneath. Jón told us about the old chieftain who tossed his idols here—he made it sound like a story he’d heard from his grandmother. I tried to take a photo but honestly, it didn’t capture half of what it felt like standing there.

Driving to Laufás took maybe half an hour—enough time for Jón to share a folktale about elves (I’m still not sure if he was joking). The turf house museum is stranger than you’d expect: low ceilings, thick grass walls, corridors that twist like rabbit holes. There’s this bridal room with faded dresses hanging up—I touched the rough wool and tried to imagine waiting there on your wedding day with the wind rattling outside. We met a woman knitting by the window who showed us how they used to spin wool; her hands moved so fast I couldn’t keep up.

The Christmas House is…well, it smells like cinnamon and woodsmoke even in July. There’s a log fire going and Icelandic carols playing—felt odd but also kind of lovely. Kids were searching for Gryla (the troll mother) in her cave while I got distracted sampling berry jam in the shop next door. Outside, garden gnomes peeked from behind bushes—somehow not creepy at all. On our way back through Akureyri, Jón pointed out the church and said if anyone wanted to hop off at the botanical gardens, now was the time. I almost did—I might next time.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit waterfalls, museums, and town sights

• Drive to Goðafoss waterfall
• Explore Goðafoss waterfall area
• Drive to Laufas Turfhouse Museum
• Tour Laufas Turfhouse and church
• Drive to the Christmas House and Gardens
• Visit Christmas House and shop
• Drive around Akureyri town
• Pass by Botanical Garden and church
• Drop off passengers

Top questions

How long is the Akureyri Goðafoss tour?

The total tour length is 4 hours including all travel time.

Is entrance to Laufás Turfhouse Museum included?

Yes, all entrance fees are included in the tour price.

Does this day trip include pickup?

Yes, pickup is included for this tour from Akureyri.

Can infants or small children join this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; infant seats are available.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board during the tour.

What can you do at the Christmas House near Akureyri?

You can explore festive rooms year-round, search for Gryla’s cave, sample local jams, and browse souvenirs.

Is there free WiFi on board?

Yes, WiFi is available on board during your journey.

What’s included

Your half-day includes pickup in Akureyri (or drop-off at places like the botanical garden if you want), entry to Laufás Turfhouse Museum with its cozy visitor center and handcraft shop, all fees and taxes covered up front, plus free WiFi on board so you can send photos home before you’ve even left Goðafoss behind.