Iceland – the land of fire and ice. Despite sub-zero temperatures, winter months of darkness and hefty prices, it remains one of the hottest destinations around. If I could go back for another Iceland family vacation, I would in a heartbeat. Having no expectations about our family trip to Iceland, we were blown away by the sheer natural beauty that greeted us.
But can you really travel to Iceland with kids? We did – and explored independently with a rental car on a self-drive tour, too.
Why choose a family trip to Iceland?
I booked our Iceland family trip to spend a week exploring Reykjavík and beyond – our first family adventure in chillier climes. It was February, in the middle of winter and extremely cold. One day it snowed so hard, over 30cm fell overnight and it hit 17°C. Did that bother our then four-year-old son? Not at all! He was in snow heaven.
We also fulfilled one of my dreams to see the Northern Lights twice while staying in the Icelandic countryside at a farmhouse hotel in Hella.
When we told family and friends we were travelling to Iceland with kids, they looked at us with bewilderment. “What are you going to do out there with young children? Are you sure?” one person asked. “Won’t it be too cold?” another added.
Before our trip, I didn’t really have a clue what we were going to do. All I knew was that we were prepared for the weather with suitable clothing, and I assumed the incredible landscapes would be spectacular even for a small child.
Best things to do in Iceland for families
Was I wrong? Of course not! Iceland may not have specific activities aimed at mini-travellers, but it’s a natural playground for all ages. How can you not be in awe of some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world?
Our son screamed in delight watching a geyser explode at Geysir, and was so proud when we climbed to the top of Skogafoss waterfall. He ran around in amazement at the black sand beaches on Vík’s south coast.
Capital city adventures
Even if you can only make it to Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavík, there’s plenty for families to enjoy. We went whale watching, visited museums and explored the city on foot. Icelanders have children, too, so there are plenty of parks, and family-friendly restaurants are accommodating with children’s menus.
Natural hot springs and geothermal pools
When we decided to experience the world-famous Blue Lagoon, my first worry was whether young kids would be allowed. The good news is that children as young as two can swim in geothermal pools across Iceland. If they can’t swim, floats and armbands are provided.
I still have fond memories of sitting poolside with a glass of wine while our son slurped a slushy. We repeated this experience at various hot springs, including Gamla Laugin, also known as the Secret Lagoon. There are over 18 geothermal baths around Reykjavík alone, many with sections for young children.
Self-drive tour adventures
We drove the Golden Circle ourselves, taking in Þingvellir National Park, Geysir and Gullfoss waterfall at our own pace. For a longer adventure, many families tackle the Ring Road, though this requires more time.
Six reasons to choose an Iceland family trip
1. Kids enjoy attractions for free
Many attractions in Reykjavík offer free entry to children under 12, including the viewing platform at Perlan and tours like the Viking exhibition at The National Museum of Iceland. Numerous parks, the Botanical Garden and Tjörnin pond (where children feed ducks) provide free entertainment.
2. Children can swim in hot tubs and pools
Iceland’s geothermal baths welcome young children. Choose from hundreds of pools and natural hot springs across the country.
3. Iceland is safe
Named the world’s safest country 10 times, Iceland has low crime rates, peaceful inhabitants, and police don’t carry weapons. It’s an ideal destination for family travel.
4. Amazing outdoor activities for all ages
From toddlers to older children, activities include glacier hikes, horseback riding on Icelandic horses, snowmobiling, jeep tours, boat trips, and even ice cave tours. For younger kids, simple pleasures like making snow angels and eating Icelandic hot dogs delight.
5. Incredible wildlife experiences
Depending on the time of year, you’ll encounter puffins, Arctic foxes, Icelandic horses, dolphins and whales. We were lucky to see a minke whale and a dolphin pod during our whale watching trip from Reykjavík.
6. It’s close to the UK and the USA
Just over three hours from London to Reykjavík, or around 5 hours and 45 minutes from the US East Coast – manageable for overnight flights with young kids.
Essential things to know
The weather is unpredictable
Despite checking every weather app, there’s no guarantee what you’ll encounter. We’d drive through snowstorms with black skies, then 30 minutes later, enjoy clear blue skies and sunshine. Pack layers for every eventuality. We even visited the Blue Lagoon in torrential downpours – it made the experience more memorable!
The sulphur smell is normal
That distinctive rotten egg odour in the air and hot water isn’t a sewage problem – it’s sulphur from geothermal energy. You’ll only notice it occasionally, and it’s completely harmless.
Respect for natural beauty
Iceland’s incredible landscapes can be dangerous. We heard stories of reckless tourists: families picnicking on glaciers, driving closed roads, people swept out to sea, and parents letting children iceberg-hop at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Respect the environment – don’t become a headline statistic.
Budget planning for Iceland
Iceland is expensive – expect around £200-240 per person per day for mid-range travel. Plan by booking accommodation, vacation packages, and car hire in advance. Avoid peak summer months (June-August) if possible. Stock up on snacks at petrol stations during day trips, and prepare some meals in your accommodation.
Alcohol restrictions
You can’t buy alcohol in regular supermarkets – only at licensed stores called Vínbúdin (six locations in Reykjavík) or at the airport. The “beer” in local shops is virtually alcohol-free.
Family-friendly culture
Children are welcome everywhere. While there aren’t specific kids’ attractions, this natural playground keeps active children occupied. Locals love children – our son made friends everywhere. Restaurants provide highchairs and children’s menus, with some even having soft play areas.
Free, pure water
Don’t waste money on bottled water. Iceland has the world’s cleanest tap water – bring reusable bottles and fill up anywhere. Most restaurants provide drinking water without you asking.
Best places and experiences
First day adventures
Start your first day exploring Reykjavík. The Lava Show provides an educational experience about volcanic activity, while the harbour area offers easy walks and potential whale watching opportunities.
Golden Circle tour
A first stop for many families, the Golden Circle covers three natural wonders: Thingvellir National Park (where tectonic plates meet), Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. It’s perfect as a day trip or part of a longer self-drive tour.
South Coast highlights
The south coast features incredible landscapes, including Seljalandsfoss waterfall (you can walk behind it!), Skogafoss waterfall, and Vík’s black sand beaches. Diamond Beach near Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon offers a unique experience with icebergs on black sand.
Westman Islands
For families with more time, the Westman Islands provide incredible wildlife experiences, especially puffin watching during summer months.
Best time to visit Iceland with kids
While we visited in the winter, Iceland offers different experiences year-round:
Summer months (June-August): Long daylight hours, lush green landscapes, easier driving conditions, and puffin season. However, this is peak season with higher prices.
Winter months (December-February): Northern Lights opportunities, ice caves, unique winter activities, but shorter daylight hours and challenging weather.
Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-November): Good balance of weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices.
Practical tips for your Iceland family vacation
Accommodation
Book comfortable accommodation early. Many places offer family rooms and kitchen facilities. For our second night and beyond, we found farmhouse stays provided authentic experiences.
Transportation
A rental car offers maximum flexibility for families. Parking lots at major attractions usually have minimal or no extra cost. For those preferring guided tours, many family tours cater to different age groups with minimum age requirements clearly stated.
Food and dining
Try local specialities like Icelandic hot dogs and Einstock White Ale (for adults – best served with an orange slice like locals do). We discovered “Love Balls” (Astarpungar) – sweet, dense doughnuts perfect with coffee. Also, don’t miss ice cream – Icelanders consume more per capita than anywhere else!
Planning your itinerary
Short visits (3-4 days)
Focus on Reykjavík and a Golden Circle day trip. Include the Blue Lagoon and whale watching if time permits.
Week-long road trip
Combine Reykjavík exploration with a self-drive tour covering the south coast, including Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and Diamond Beach. Consider spending your last stop back in the capital city. Read our 7-day itinerary here.
Extended trips
Tackle the Ring Road or explore North Iceland with its different landscapes and experiences. Mountain biking, horse riding, and arctic adventures become options with more time.
We loved our Iceland family trip…
Iceland proved to be a lifetime experience for our family. The combination of natural wonders, safety, and family-friendly culture makes it perfect for young kids and older children alike. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or simply want to witness some of Earth’s most incredible landscapes, Iceland delivers.
From our comfortable accommodation in Reykjavík to farmhouse hotels in the countryside, easy walks around geothermal pools to more challenging glacier hikes, Iceland offers something for every family member.
Planning a family trip to Iceland requires preparation, but the unique experiences and natural beauty make every penny worthwhile. Whether it’s your first time or you’re planning a return visit, Iceland will exceed your expectations.
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