Iceland with Kids: A Treasure Trove of Thrills for Families

From bubbling hot springs to thundering waterfalls, Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes captivate travelers of all ages. This land of fire and ice is a natural playground, packed with opportunities for fun things to do with kids in Iceland.

Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights or soaking in geothermal pools, an Iceland with kids promises an extraordinary escape.

What Are You In For While Travelling To Iceland With Kids?

• Family-Friendly Highlights: Safe, welcoming, with kid-focused amenities (play areas, children’s menus).

• Transportation: Easy to explore by car; most sites have parking and restrooms.

• Top Activities: Geothermal pools, whale watching, horseback riding, and interactive museums.

• Best Time to Visit:

  • Summer (June-August): Mild weather, long daylight, peak season.

  • Winter (Nov-March): Northern Lights, ice caves, festive Icelandic traditions.

  • Spring/Autumn: Fewer crowds, variable weather, budget-friendly.

• Trip Duration:

  • 5-7 days: Reykjavík, Golden Circle, South Coast.

  • 10-14 days: Add North Iceland, Westfjords, or East Iceland.

• Travel Tips: Pack waterproof layers, monitor weather reports, and prioritize must-see sights with a flexible itinerary.

Where to Stay in Iceland with Kids?

Iceland offers a variety of family-friendly accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best options for where to stay in Iceland with kids:

Family-Friendly Hotels

Many hotels in Iceland cater to families, with amenities like family rooms, cribs, high chairs, and children’s play areas. Some even offer kids’ clubs, babysitting services, or special children’s menus.

In Reykjavík

• Icelandair Hotel Reykjavík Marina,

• Center Hotels Plaza, and

• Hilton Reykjavík Nordica.

Vacation Rentals

Renting an apartment or house can be a great option for families with kids, you can look up Airbnb for further bookings.

Hostels

Look for hostels with good reviews, family-friendly policies, and amenities like high chairs or board games. The Galaxy Pod Hostel in Reykjavík even has space-themed sleeping pods that kids will love.

Top Places to Visit in Iceland with Kids

Iceland is packed with incredible sights and activities for kids of all ages. Here are some of the top places to visit on your family trip:

Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route that covers three of Iceland’s most famous natural attractions:

• Þingvellir National Park

• Gullfoss waterfall

• the Geysir geothermal area.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

• Jökulsárlón is a large glacial lake filled with icebergs that have calved off the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull glacier.

• Take a boat tour among the floating ice sculptures or watch them drift out to sea and wash up on the black sand shore.

• Seals can often be spotted swimming in the lagoon or basking on the icebergs.

• In winter, the lagoon can freeze over, creating a surreal frozen landscape.

Víðgelmir Lava Tunnel

• Víðgelmir is the largest lava tunnel in Iceland, formed by an ancient volcanic eruption.

• Take a guided tour through the colorful cave, marveling at the stalactites, stalagmites, and other rock formations.

• The tunnel is well-lit and has a flat, gravel path, making it accessible for most kids.

• Dress warmly as temperatures inside the cave are around 0°C (32°F) year-round.

Whale and Puffin Watching

• Iceland’s coastal waters are home to over 20 species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises.

• Take a whale-watching boat tour from Reykjavík, Húsavík, or Akureyri for a chance to spot these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

• Many tours also include puffin watching, as these adorable seabirds nest on Iceland’s cliffs and islands in summer.

• Be sure to bring warm layers and motion sickness medication if needed.

Black Sand Beaches

• Iceland’s striking black sand beaches are a result of the country’s volcanic activity.

• The most famous is Reynisfjara near Vík, with its towering basalt columns and powerful waves.

• Other notable black sand beaches include-

  • Djúpalónssandur in the Snæfellsnes peninsula.

  • Diamond Beach near Jökulsárlón

Admire the unique scenery but supervise children closely and avoid getting too close to the water, as sneaker waves can be dangerous.

Perlan Museum

• This interactive science museum in Reykjavík is a hit with kids of all ages.

• Exhibits cover topics like glaciers, volcanoes, and the Northern Lights, with hands-on displays and stunning visuals.

• Don’t miss the ice cave, planetarium, and 360-degree observation deck with views over the city.

Reykjavík Family Park and Zoo

• This small zoo and amusement park is a great place to spend a few hours with young kids.

• See native Icelandic animals like reindeer, seals, and Arctic foxes, then let the kids burn off energy on the playgrounds and rides.

• The park also has a petting zoo where kids can feed and cuddle with friendly farm animals.

Kid-Friendly Eateries and Restaurants in Iceland

Icelandic cuisine might seem strange to picky eaters, but there are plenty of kid-friendly options to keep everyone happy.

Icelandic Ice Cream Shops

Icelanders love their ice cream, no matter the weather. You’ll find ice cream shops in every town, serving creamy scoops in flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and licorice.

Some top ice cream shops to try include:

• Valdís in Reykjavík

• Brynja in Akureyri

• Ísbuð Vesturbæjar in Ísafjörður

Hot Dog Stands

Hot dogs are a national obsession in Iceland. The most famous stand is Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur in Reykjavík, which has been serving up delicious dogs since 1937. Order one with everything—ketchup, sweet mustard, remoulade, crispy onions, and raw onions—for the full Icelandic experience.

Family-Friendly Cafes

Many cafes in Iceland have high chairs, kids’ menus, and play areas to keep little ones entertained. Look for places with outdoor seating in the summer months.

Some family-friendly cafes to check out include:

• Friðheimar in Reykholt (they grow their own tomatoes!)

• Gló in Reykjavík (healthy, organic options)

Traditional Icelandic Restaurants

Introduce your kids to Icelandic specialties like lamb soup, fish stew, and skyr (a yogurt-like dairy product) at a traditional restaurant. Many places offer kid-sized portions or simplified dishes. Some kid-friendly Icelandic restaurants include:

• Íslenski Barinn in Reykjavík

• Vogafjós Farm Resort in Mývatn (eat in a cowshed!)

Packing for a Trip to Iceland with Kids

Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, with cool temperatures and frequent rain or wind. Packing the right gear is key to staying comfortable and enjoying your trip. Here’s a packing list for Iceland with kids:

• Warm, waterproof jackets and pants

• Wool or fleece layers (base layer, sweater, hat, gloves)

• Sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots

• Quick-drying pants or shorts

• T-shirts and long-sleeve shirts

• Swimsuits and towels (for hot springs and pools)

• Sun hat and sunglasses

• Backpack or daypack

• Reusable

Why Choose OneVasco?

OneVasco makes visa applications effortless. Our expert team manages the entire process, allowing you to focus on your journey. 

Enjoy stress-free travel with fast visa approvals.

• Expert and Personalized Support 

• Efficient and Hassle-Free Process 

• Real-Time Tracking and Updates 

• Transparent Communication 

• Trusted by Millions

FAQs

How to plan Iceland with kids?

Planning an Iceland with kids trip involves a few key considerations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for the whole family:

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June-August): Mild weather, endless daylight, and easier driving.

• Spring/Fall: Moderate temperatures, ample daylight, ideal for younger kids.

Accommodation

• Choose apartments/homes with kitchens for flexibility with meals.

• Opt for family-friendly hotels with central locations and kid-focused amenities.

Transportation

• Rent a car for flexibility and comfort; request car seats and GPS in advance.

Activities

• Book family-friendly tours (whale watching, glacier hikes, hot springs).

• Balance sightseeing with rest and play to keep kids energized.

Is it worth it to go to Iceland with kids?

Absolutely! Iceland offers unforgettable family adventures with its unique experiences, educational value, and safe environment:

• Unique Adventures: Hike glaciers, explore lava caves, witness geysers, meet Icelandic horses, and chase the Northern Lights.

• Educational Fun: Learn about geology, ecology, and sustainability through Iceland’s landscapes and interactive exhibits like Perlan.

• Safe & Welcoming: Ranked among the safest countries, with family-friendly culture and excellent infrastructure.

• Easy to Explore: Compact size makes diverse attractions easily accessible, even with kids.

Which month is best for kids in Iceland?

The best month for an Iceland with kids trip depends on your family’s interests and priorities. Here’s a quick overview:

• June-August: Best weather, 24-hour daylight, perfect for road trips; busiest and priciest.

• May & September: Mild weather, fewer crowds, lower costs; some limited attraction hours.

• October-April: Magical winters, Northern Lights, ice caves; shorter days and challenging weather.

How many days in Iceland are enough?

The ideal length for an Iceland with kids trip depends on your family’s wish list and travel pace. However, here are some guidelines:

• 5-7 Days: Reykjavík, Golden Circle, South Coast highlights—perfect for first-timers.

• 8-10 Days: Add unique activities (glacier hikes, lava caves) and explore further.

• 10-14 Days: Complete Ring Road trip with time for adventures and relaxation.

Which is the off season in Iceland?

Iceland’s off season typically runs from October through April, with some variation based on weather patterns and tourism trends. Here’s what you can expect during this time:

• Lower Costs: Cheaper flights, accommodations, and tours.

• Fewer Crowds: Enjoy quieter attractions and more space.

• Winter Activities: Northern Lights, ice caving, skiing, and festive holidays.

• Challenges: Harsh weather, short days, and icy roads—requires flexibility.

• Limited Access: Some roads, attractions, and services may close or have reduced hours.