Iceland With Kids| Info, Tips & Things To Do
Wondering what to do with kids in Iceland?
Iceland is a country of extremes and, after spending several days exploring with our family, we can confidently say that you’ll find plenty of exciting things to do with your kids! Whether you are staying in Reykjavik, discovering the south coast or completing a circuit of the ring road, you are never far from adventure.
We’ve seen everything from icebergs and frozen waterfalls to geysers and bubbling hot mud. For the more adventurous, take a trek off the beaten path to soak in a remote hot spring or stand at the edge of a giant glacier looking out over the awe-inspiring landscapes. Our kids loved Iceland’s natural beauty, unique history, and adventurous activities and we’d love to share our favourites with you.
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Top Family Activities In Iceland
Soak In A Geothermal Spring
Glacier Hike To An Ice Cave
Northern Lights Tour
Iceland With Kids
Located close to the Arctic Circle, Iceland is the ultimate playground for families looking for adventure. It has some of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders and wildlife while still having a safe, relaxing environment. If you’re looking for a spark to ignite a passion for discovery in your kids, you’ll certainly find it here!
Best Time To Visit Iceland With Kids
Deciding on the best time of year to visit Iceland will depend on what you want to see and do. It’s a country of extremes and this holds true for the seasons too; you can experience the midnight sun in summer, marvel at the Northern Lights in winter through a 20hr night!
We visited Iceland in winter and enjoyed seeing the winter wonderland in all its glory, despite the short, cold days.
To get the most out of visiting Iceland we recommend visiting between late May and July when the weather is at its best and the days are at their longest.
Things To Do In Iceland With Kids
Whether you go in summer or in winter, Iceland has activities and attractions that will entertain and educate kids of all ages. Choose your activities carefully, especially if you are on a budget; whilst some experiences may be unique, some are also very costly!
1. Soak In A Geothermal Hot Spring
Taking a dip in a geothermal hot spring in Iceland has to be near the top of any family’s ‘must-do’ list. Relaxing in the warm water is a perfect way to unwind after a busy day exploring. Kids can cover themselves (and mum and dad!) in the natural clay found at the famous Blue Lagoon, to add a bit of fun to the experience, while refreshing everyone’s skin!
One of our top things to do in Iceland is to visit a free hot spring in Reykjadalur Valley. It’s tucked away, and getting there is an adventure in itself!
A hike at sunrise past bubbling springs and through fresh snow, fuelled our kid’s excitement even before reaching the remote bathing area. A soak in the warm, clear water is a great way to really feel at one with the rugged landscape that surrounds you.
2. Walk On A Glacier To An Ice Cave
Hiking on a glacier to an ice cave in Iceland is like stepping into another world and is an experience your family will never forget!
Guided glacier hikes are available in winter for families with older kids (generally 12 plus). Essential gear such as crampons and helmets is provided to set off on your ‘Arctic expedition’. Walking on an Icelandic glacier is awe-inspiring, with dramatic ice formations and deep crevasses guaranteed to impress even the most reluctant teenager!
Most glacial hikes will include a visit to an ice cave although this is dependent on a number of factors including the weather. Your guide will tell you how these incredible formations are created; as geography lessons go, there can’t be many that are set in such a stunning location!
While these activities can be done separately, together, they are the perfect mix of adventure, education, and amazement.
3. See The Northern Lights
If you’re visiting Iceland in winter, the Northern Lights should be near the top of your family’s must-see list.
Although there are never any guarantees, Iceland is one of the best places in the world to witness the aurora borealis. Just the anticipation of seeing the lights dance across Iceland’s night sky was enough to keep us up well past midnight searching for the perfect spot.
Whether you find a dark area out of town, chase the lights on a guided tour or watch the light show in the Perlan Museum, you’ll find excitement and wonder in equal measure.
Seeing the Northern Lights together as a family is one of the main things that made Iceland such a special place to visit.
4. Discover Waterfalls
Iceland is known for its dramatic natural wonders, and waterfalls are right up there amongst the best of them. Every waterfall is different and with over 10,000 to choose from, you are certainly spoiled for choice!
You will find waterfalls all over Iceland; some are easy to access, while others require a hike. We especially enjoyed the towering Skógafoss, the hidden Gljúfrabúi, standing behind Seljalandsfoss, taking in the striking basalt columns at Svartifoss and the impressive Gullfoss which is also known as the ‘Mini Iguazu‘.
There’s something really special about experiencing the roar of the water, feeling the raw power as you get closer and watching rainbows forming in the mist. Our kids never seem to tire of seeing a waterfall and we’re sure you won’t either!
5. See A Geyser Erupt
There are many geothermal areas in Iceland to visit that provide fascinating geological insight and are a must-see for families with kids!
Kids will love exploring the bubbling and steaming ground at the Geysir Geothermal Area; along with the memorable eggy smell and witnessing the Strokkur geyser erupting up to 20 metres in the air every few minutes.
The paths are easy to navigate, making it perfect for families to wander around, take in the views, and make memories. It’s a unique family experience that blends science and adventure.
6. Hike Unique Landscape
Hiking is a great way to experience Iceland’s natural landscapes and Icelandic wildlife. While summer is the best season for most family hikes, winter opens up access to ice caves and glaciers that may not be available in the warmer seasons.
Hiking in Iceland can allow families to explore glaciers, lava fields, craters, valleys and beaches all in a relatively compact country.
Select trails that suit your family’s ability and have something interesting to keep entertain your kids such as a waterfall, black sand beach or a hidden gem such as a plane wreck near Vik.
7. Play On A Black Sand Beach
Exploring Iceland’s black sand beaches was a family first. Reynisfjara and Diamond Beach are the most popular with, interesting rock formations and sneaker waves on the first and chunks of diamond-like iceberg on the second.
Our kids love playing on beaches and the soft, dark sand was perfect for walking on. You can also take a horse ride along the shore for a different perspective; whatever you decide to do, we’re sure you’ll enjoy the uniqueness of both these beaches as much as we did.
Pay extra attention to kids near the ferocious waves that are not swimmable while you enjoy the wild, rugged beauty of Iceland’s coastline together as a family!
8. Whale watching
Iceland is one of the best places in the world to visit for an unforgettable whale-watching adventure with kids! Scanning the waves for the first sighting or locating where a whale will next breach keeps the excitement and suspense high for the whole trip.
Dolphins, Porpoises and sea birds are all regularly spotted on whale-watching trips and you’ll learn about their unique habitat, the dangers they face and what we can do to help protect them.
Book your trip from Reykjavik or the whale-watching capital, Húsavík and you’ll be in with a real chance of a close encounter with one of the world’s most majestic creatures.
9. Climb On A Plane Wrek
Climbing around a plane wreck is perhaps not something you would immediately associate with Iceland but it is nonetheless, a fun experience that adventurous kids will love!
There are two DC-3 plane wrecks, both located in South Iceland. The first is a U.S. Navy plane that crash-landed on Sólheimasandur Beach after running out of fuel. It takes 45 minutes on foot across the black sand to access it.
The second aircraft was relocated to Eyvindarholt after an accident in Northern Iceland. It can be accessed directly from a nearby parking area.
Our kids were intrigued by the histories of both aircraft and enjoyed climbing about in the fuselage and cockpits. It’s a chance to take some unique pictures for a fun talking point when you get home!
10. Adventurous Iceland Activities
For adventurous families, Iceland is the ultimate playground!
There are many options including riding Icelandic horses through lava fields, glacier snowmobiling, ice climbing, ziplining, quad biking, dog sledging, white water rafting or even snorkelling between tectonic plates in the crystal-clear waters of Silfra.
Whether your family are seasoned adventurers or just looking to try something new, Iceland’s outdoor activities in unique locations will add excitement to your family trip!
12. See An Erupting Volcano
A visit to Iceland can be akin to having a fully immersive geology lesson! Watching a volcano erupt from a safe distance or exploring a hardened lava field are great ways to learn about how the earth was formed and is still forming!
Witnessing lava burst from the earth’s crust is an unforgettable experience but even if you’re not lucky enough to catch an active eruption, exploring the cooled lava fields or lava tunnels is just as fascinating.
There is an excellent live Lava Show in the seaside town of Vik where it’s possible to get a close-up demonstration of how lava is formed and how it flows during an eruption. You’ll get a full-on sensory experience, feeling the heat, hearing the sizzle and smelling the molten rock as it flows and cools in front of your eyes.
13. Visit Glacial Lagoon And Float Between Icebergs
Seeing an iceberg up close and personal is pretty surreal and for that reason, kayaking or boating between them is one of our ‘must-do’ adventures with kids in Iceland.
Glacier Lagoon offers this experience, and with its still water, it is the perfect place for families to explore the icebergs from the Breiðamerkurjökull and Sólheimajökull glaciers.
It’s a truly magical family experience that combines adventure, stunning scenery and natural wonders all in one.
🤩 Book a family Kayaking trip on a glacial lagoon here!
14. Witness The Midnight Sun
Experiencing the midnight sun in Iceland is a unique experience for kids. In the summer (June-July), the sun barely sets over the landscape allowing more time to explore the island with early risers or staying up late with kids.
The midnight sun casts a magical glow, lighting up must-see natural attractions and giving families extra time to make memories together!
🤩 Kids with love this ATV tour for exploring Iceland in the midnight sun
6 Tips For Visiting Iceland With Kids
To make sure your trip to Iceland is a fun and memorable family adventure, here are some tips for visiting with kids:
🌟 Be Prepared for Weather Extremes
The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable in any season; one minute, it’s sunny, the next it’s rain, snow or a constant harsh wind. Pack spare clothes that can be layered and take a waterproof outer layer. Having a full change of clothes for younger children can sometimes be beneficial when exploring Iceland.
🌟 Don’t overload Your Itinerary
There are loads of things to do in Iceland with kids! While sometimes you will have multiple activities in a compact area, others are more widespread. Prepare for long days exploring by road or hiking with kids. The trip will be more enjoyable and less stressful if you factor flexibility into your itinerary for slow times or days.
🌟 Pick Family-Friendly Activities
Iceland is full of family friendly activities from glacier walks, whale watching, horse riding, quad bikes, hiking or discovering caves. Mix up your itinerary to include sightseeing and fun activities to keep everyone happy.
🌟 Be Prepared With Snacks
Snacks are a great bribe to encourage kids to complete an activity when energy, boredom or tiredness kicks in. While we’re sure you are aware of this tip, ensure you stay stocked up as supplies are not always easy to get in remote areas.
🌟 Safety First
Iceland is generally a safe country but nature can be deadly. While natural attractions are worth seeing ensure kids are cautious especially near cliffs, hot springs and strong waves on beaches. Do not venture into cordoned areas and stay on paths so not to cause damage.
🌟 Embrace the Long Days (or Short Ones!)
Iceland has two extremes; summer has the Midnight Sun, allowing exploration in the endless daylight versus winter, with short days and long nights, perfect for spotting the Northern Lights. Whenever you visit Iceland, plan your activities to suit the length of the day.
Where To Stay In Iceland With Kids
There are many locations to stay in Iceland but our top recommendations for families are in more populated areas.
Reykjavik – West Iceland
Reykjavik is a great option for families who prefer not to drive. The city’s many attractions are all walkable and include restaurants, museums, naturally heated swimming pools and some stunning architecture. Bus tours operate from here for day trips to the Golden Circle and beyond, so you can enjoy Iceland’s iconic sights.
The Reykjavik Marina is a comfortable, well-located hotel in Reykjavik. The quirky, family-friendly Viking Hotel is a great alternative.
Vík – South Iceland
Just two and a half hours from the Keflavík Airport, Vik is a small town on the south coast. Staying in Vik is ideal for families that love nature and wish to explore black sand beaches, waterfalls, and glaciers.
Vik Apartments are perfect for families with well-equipped kitchens and comfortable, spacious living areas.
Akureyri – North Iceland
This Northern town is ideal for families wanting to explore the northern fjords, take a whale-watching tour, and see the nearby geothermal areas in Iceland’s Diamond Circle.
Akureyri – Berjaya Iceland Hotels have well-appointed family rooms with plenty of space. Breakfast is amongst the best in Iceland!
Getting Around Iceland With Kids
Iceland has well-maintained roads that are easy for families to navigate around either independently or with a guide. There are three main transport options in Iceland:
Rent A Car Or Campervan
Renting a car and heading out on a family road trip certainly has its benefits when you are travelling with kids. You get all of the excitement plus an efficient means of getting around while having space for essential items such as extra clothes, snacks and entertainment.
If you want to go all-in, a campervan or motorhome is the ultimate way to travel, combining accommodation, transport and a means to cook for yourself; this option is most suited to summer conditions and we would not recommend hiring one in the winter unless it is 4wd with winter tyres and a good heating system!
By Guided Tour
For a more relaxed way to explore Iceland, a guided tour will take you to the highlights without having to worry about any of the logistics.
There is a huge choice of bus and private family tours that will take you to the Golden Circle or on a Glacial hike. While both will provide a great deal of information, family tours offer more flexibility for changes to suit your preferences.
By Public Buses (Strætó)
Iceland has a very reliable public bus system (Strætó). The buses are easy to navigate but are most useful to travel around Reykjavik. Rural areas are not frequently serviced although it is a cheap transport option. Kids under 6 generally travel for free, with half price fares for older children.
Family Trip To Iceland FAQs
We’ve covered the essential things to do, where to stay, family tips and transport in Iceland but here are a couple of the most common questions we get asked:
Iceland is a great safe family destination with many unique family-friendly activities, from hiking glaciers to discovering diamonds on black sand beaches. Iceland is bursting with natural wonders for an enjoyable family trip.
Allow between 5 and 10 days to visit Reykjavik, the Golden Circle and the South Coast. This is a reasonably kid-friendly pace and takes in Iceland’s main highlights such as waterfalls, glaciers, and geothermal pools.
🤩 Short on time this is your must-do South Coast Tour from Reykjavik
Final Thoughts | Family Activities In Iceland
With so many exciting things to do, a trip to Iceland with your kids will be an adventure whatever time of year you travel. There are endless opportunities to explore and the dramatic landscapes are a photographer’s dream.
Iceland is a true bucket-list destination and one that we are already planning a return to. Families are well catered for with plenty of suitable accommodation options and a huge range of activities suitable for all ages.
