family trip to iceland

Iceland With Kids: How To Plan The Ultimate Family Vacation In Iceland

Exploring Iceland with kids makes for one of the most memorable, fun, and exciting family vacations imaginable. Family vacations in Iceland are perfect for adventurous families who love to explore the outdoors, dine on delicious local cuisine, and experience some of the most dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife on the planet.

Family vacations to Iceland have become one of the most popular destinations for adventurous families. And as someone who has explored a huge part of Iceland with my children, I can totally understand why. 

Iceland is the land of fire and ice. It’s a jaw-droppingly beautiful destination filled with towering waterfalls , a strong belief in fairytale creatures, wide-open landscapes to explore, and skies that dance with colorful lights. It’s a destination that appeals to adults and children alike.

Visiting Iceland with kids means exploring one of the safest countries in the world. And there are few other places where you can hike a glacier, bask in the spray of waterfalls, ride Icelandic horses down the coast, or take a super-jeep tour to the rim of an active volcano. It’s practically impossible for kids in Iceland not to find something that blows their little minds.

Iceland is also a place where the warmth of the locals is almost as powerful as the volcanoes that fuel the geothermal baths that dot the country. The Icelandic people are generally quiet and reserved, but many have a deep love for children. And exploring the picturesque fishing towns in Iceland with your kids will often open up a chance to connect that many adult travelers might miss. No matter what your Iceland itinerary looks like, you’re going to be planning a trip back very soon after you get home.

You’ll also find that many restaurants, cottages, and hotels cater to families. Many places have entertainment areas specifically for children. Hotels and motels often have cots and cribs, high chairs, and play areas. You’ll also find many restaurants that have children’s menus with kid-friendly versions of local foods, not just chicken nuggets and fries.

Is Iceland Child Friendly?

Table of Contents

Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world. The crime rate is exceptionally low, the education rate is among the highest in the world, and Iceland is consistently rated in the top 5 on the World Happiness Report .

While you’re traveling Iceland with kids, you’ll also learn about Iceland’s tremendous Viking heritage. From the explorers to the Viking legends, the myth and history in Icelandic tales offer stories for kids to get lost in. They are filled with adventure, passion, and mythical creatures.

Combine these things with the wide-open landscapes, great roads, amazing restaurants, and access to incredible wildlife experiences such as whales, puffins, and reindeer, and family travel to Iceland becomes positively brilliant.

Is It Easy To Travel Iceland With Kids?

Iceland has an absolutely rock-solid tourism industry. This north-Atlantic country sees a massive influx of visitors who are focused on Iceland summer vacations and winter northern lights tours.

Because family travel in Iceland is so safe, one of the best ways to explore the country is via a self-drive tour. Many families opt to tour the Ring Road or self-drive popular attractions such as the famous Golden Circle .

Rental companies in Iceland cater well to families. Whether you’re looking to book directly with a car rental company in Iceland such as Hertz or Budget, or, as I like to do, go through an aggregator such as Auto Europe , you’ll find rental companies that are able to source important things such as car seats, booster seats, and more.

The roads in Iceland are fantastic. And, unless you are looking to explore the Icelandic Highlands that are found on the rough F-Roads (which certain rentals will not be allowed to travel on), you’ll be just fine with a two-wheel drive vehicle. But, if you want to truly get off-the-beaten-path, you’ll want something with 4-wheel-drive.

Grocery stores in Iceland are well stocked with supplies such as formula, milk, diapers, pureed, food and more. You’ll find two types of milk on the shelves. One is shelf-safe and can be stored, refrigerated for a few days. Ask the helpful staff which is best for your travel itinerary.

Purchase your supplies from larger grocery stores such as Bonus, Kronan, and Netto, and in Reykjavik, you’ll find a Costco. You’ll find prices at these locations to be significantly cheaper than smaller stores and even the well-stocked gas stations.

How to Get to Iceland With Kids

Iceland is very conveniently located right between Europe and North America. In fact, it is literally the dividing point between the two countries. You can actually swim, snorkel or even SCUBA dive between the two tectonic plates in an area of Thingvellir National Park called the Silfra Fissure .

Because of this and a large tourism push in the country, flying into Iceland is relatively inexpensive from countries such as Canada, the United States, and most of Europe.

Our flight from Toronto to Keflavik on Iceland Air only took about five hours and was one of the easiest International family travel trips that we’ve taken. Flights from within Europe are even less expensive than those coming from North America with rates that can fall below $100 USD each way.

What To Do In Iceland With Kids

Iceland tourism has exploded in recent years. And more and more families are bringing their kids to Iceland. Each story that gets told just breeds more and more passion for this amazing country. And as more and more people decide to visit Iceland with toddlers, young kids, and teenagers, new and exciting opportunities are popping up for family travel within the country.

Learn About Viking History in Iceland

One of the most fascinating parts about visiting Iceland with kids is learning about the rich Viking history of the country. These epic explorers moved across the Ocean from Norway and eventually discovered the New World long before the rest of Europe jumped on the bandwagon. And it is their fascinating story that makes Iceland what it is today.

If you’re interested in learning about the Viking history in Canada, check out our tour of the Viking Trail in Newfoundland . Some of our favorite places for exploring Viking history within Iceland with kids are:

• The Sun Voyager sculpture in Reykjavik is the perfect place to start your journey through Iceland with kids. This is one of the most iconic pieces of artwork in the country. But it’s also the perfect launching point for piquing kids’ interest in Viking culture! Honestly, some of the most fun photos you can take on a family trip to Iceland are down by the Reykjavik marina.
• Meet a Giant Viking on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula .  When I was researching what to do in Iceland for families, I didn’t expect that this site near the bird cliffs of the Snaefellsnes peninsula , would become one of my favorites. Here sits a massive rock depiction of Bardur Snaefellsnes, a descendant of trolls who still exerts their magical influence on the region. The Bardur of Snaefellsenes is a great way to introduce your kids to the Icelandic sagas and the history of the country.
• Visit The Incredible Viking Museums. There are many great kid-friendly museums in Iceland. The Saga Museum is located within Reykjavik and is very popular. Just outside of town (about 40 mins) is Viking World , which has some amazing displays that will capture children’s imagination. But if you really want to delve into the Viking Saga’s and history, we highly recommend The Settlement Centre in West Iceland. It’s worth the journey if you’re traveling the Ring Road .

Take In The Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Iceland

Iceland is all about waterfalls! There are more of them than you can count. In fact, it seems that everywhere you travel in Iceland, there is water cascading down in the most beautiful way.

Not all of the waterfalls in Iceland are kid-friendly, but many of them are. These are some of our favorite waterfalls in Iceland for children. If you’re a photographer, make sure to bring along a tripod to catch those beautiful long-exposures of the waterfalls.

You can also check out my guide to the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland here .

• The Majestic Gullfoss on Iceland’s Golden Circle is one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland. This iconic destination is a great introduction to the waterfalls of Iceland for kids.
• Svartifoss Waterfall in Vatnajokull National Park is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. It’s located at the mid-way point of an easy 1.5 km (1 mile) hike. The hike is an easy one through the low lying forest. And the stream at the bottom of Svartifoss is perfect for splashing.
• Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall in West Iceland is in one of the most scenic areas of the country. The waterfall itself is pretty basic by Icelandic standards, but the relaxing walk along the river and the scenery around it are breathtaking! Children of all ages will love running through the fields of summer flowers with Kirkjufell Mountain in the background.

Swim in the Geothermal Pools

Make sure to bring your swimsuits with you. Iceland has countless glaciers that pour melt-water down through volcanic soil and rock. The geothermal landscape makes for a natural filtration and heating system. Because of all of this geothermal activity there are an endless number of geothermal pools waiting to explore.

For family-friendly fun in Iceland, nothing beats splashing around in naturally heated pools. It seems no matter where you travel with kids in Iceland, a pool is not far away. Reykjavik alone has over 18 of these geothermal pools! Here are some of our favorite family-friendly pools in Iceland:

• Float In Elegance in the Blue Lagoon between Reykjavik and Keflavik. Yes, the Blue Lagoon is the most famous geothermal pool in Iceland. That fame is often debated, but there’s no denying that it’s a beautiful way to begin or end a family vacation to Iceland. Unfortunately, children under 2 are no longer allowed at the Blue Lagoon.
• Enjoy family fun at the Laugardalslaug pool in Reykavik. This place combines the pools with a sports hall, botanical garden, a zoo, a sculpture museum, a large gym (World Class), a spa, and a skating rink! If you are traveling in Iceland with toddlers, it doesn’t get much better than this.
• Swim with a view at the Myvatn Nature Bath. The Myvatn Nature Baths are one of our favorite spots to bring kids in Iceland. The Myvatn Nature Baths are open to all ages and have some of the most beautiful views of all the geothermal pools.

Go Whale Watching

There are few things cooler for both kids and adults than watching a creature the size of a bus rocket out of the water and come crashing down just a few feet away from your boat.

And there are few places in the world where you can experience whale watching as you can in Iceland. These are the ones that we recommend:

• Whale Watching in Reykjavik is an excellent option for doing a 3 or 4-day tour of Iceland with kids. The convenience of being in the capital city with easy access to the marina is helpful to those who aren’t doing a full tour of the country. Most whale watching tours in Iceland leave from the Old Harbour and last about 3 hours. You can find some family-friendly Reykjavik whale watching tours here .
• Whale Watching in the Calm Waters of Akureyri is popular for families due to the calm water of Iceland’s longest fjord. Akureyri is one of Iceland’s northernmost cities, and it is the second-largest city in the country. Whale watching tours in Akureyri take off from the floating pier near the Hof Cultural and Concert hall. Here is a great Akureyri whale watching tour to check out .
• Whale Watching from a Schooner in Husavik with North Sailing was one of our favorite experiences in Iceland. There was something magical about combining the majesty of tall ships with the elegance of whales in the Northern Sea. As an added bonus, Husavik is one of the best places to see the world’s largest mammal, the Blue Whale, during the summer months. This has become one of our favorite family-friendly wildlife experiences in the world . Husavik is also home to the Iceland whale museum which has a lot to offer for those experiencing Iceland for kids, or adults traveling the country. There are other whale watching tours in Husavik as well. You can check them out here .

Explore some of Iceland’s Other Wildlife

Kids aren’t the only wild animals that love to explore Iceland, there are lots of amazing creatures that call Iceland their home. This country’s unique position in the ocean makes it a haven for migratory birds such as the North Atlantic puffin.

But it’s not just our feathered friends that can be found around Iceland. There are a few animals that we love to visit when we are in this beautiful country. Here are some of our top wildlife experiences for families in Iceland. You can check out our guide to finding puffins in Iceland here.

• Run along with herds of Reindeer in East Iceland. Reindeer are the largest animal that lives in Iceland (except for the occasional Polar Bear that ends up here by accident). Reindeer are most easily seen in the winter months when they head to the lowlands to feed. During the summer, you are more likely to see them in the highlands away from the crowds.
• Watch colorful puffins dance in the air and in the water. Ferry to the Westfjords where during the summer months Iceland is home to some of the largest concentrations of puffins in the world. The best place to see them are on the ferry to the Snaefellsness Peninsula (make sure to book the slow ferry, the fast one doesn’t stop at the colony). If you want to see them up-close, head to Latrabjarg in the Westfjords to watch them on the epic Latrabjarg bird cliffs .
• Go horseback riding on elegant Icelandic horses. OK, you got me, while not technically “wildlife”, Icelandic horses are still one of the most treasured animals in the country. They are known for their small size, gorgeous coats, and fortitude that allowed them to survive the harsh Icelandic winters. Kids will love horseback riding experiences along the black sand beaches on these beautiful animals. You can check out a great family-friendly horseback tour here .

Enjoy some of Icelands Best Family-Friendly Hikes

Views. Iceland’s got them. In fact, when you’re hiking in Iceland with children, it seems like Iceland has ALL the views. In all of the countries that our family has traveled to , I can’t think of one country that has matched Iceland for sheer beauty. Many have come close. But Iceland remains the champion.

Hiking in Iceland with kids is just awesome. You can check here for all of our favorite family-friendly hikes in Iceland here or have a look at these gems. If you’re new to family hikes, you can check out my tips on how to hike with kids here .

• Visit the Giant at the Arnarpstapi Bird Cliffs. Yes, this is the same trip we mentioned earlier when talking about Viking history in Iceland. Not only can you visit the Bardur of Snaefellsnes here, but you can hike between the towns of Arnarpstapi and Hellnar for some stunning views. The Arnarpstapi cliffs are home to thousands of nesting birds that make their homes on the coastal cliffs and sea caves. As an added bonus, stop in at the Fjoruhusid cafe in Hellnar for a treat before making your way back to Arnapstapi.
• Explore the stunning landscape around Lake Myvatn. The hiking trails surrounding Lake Myvatn are gorgeous. The region is lush and green during the summer months. The well-maintained paths make the hike very family-friendly. Along with volcanic hills and craters, you might also see grazing Icelandic horses along the water’s edge.
• Take in one of the most beautiful canyons in the world at Fjadrargljufur. This narrow canyon stretches for 2 km between steep 100 m cliffs. The canyon floor can be trekked but requires some wading through shallow water and along some small waterfalls. There is also a path along the canyon rim for those who want to keep their feet dry. We opted to do a little of each, and the views from both are simply amazing.

Appease Your Adventurous Side with Family-Friendly Icelandic Adventure Activities

With endless nature and epic views surrounding you, it’s easy to get caught up in the madness and want to try something exciting! Luckily, many of these adventurous activities can be done with children. Well, at least children of a certain age. These are some of the most exciting activities in Iceland for kids.

• Snowmobile Across Langjokull Glacier. There are few things as freeing and fun as snowmobiling across a glacier in Iceland. Although you need to be 18 to be a driver and at least 6-years old to be a passenger (When we first went, the age restrictions were a little different), snowmobiling in Iceland offers a really great way to explore on top of the amazing glaciers. You can check out some Iceland snowmobile tours here.
• Take a Zodiac or Amphibious Vehicle tour of the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Jokulsarlon lagoon is one of the most surreal places in Iceland. Children in Iceland will love watching the icebergs cut off the Jökulsárlón glacier into the spectacular lagoon while playful seals swim amongst the clear blue icebergs that float around you. As a bonus, make sure to get a taste of the delicious glacier ice scooped straight out of the lagoon! You can find some Jukulsarlon lagoon tours here .
• Take an off-road journey in the Icelandic Interior. Off-roading and Super Jeeps are a big deal in Iceland, and these rugged adventures are something that the whole family can enjoy. And with Icelandic safety in force, you know it will kid-safe and as fun as when we went on a dune buggy in Peru . Off-roading in Iceland with kids lets you get to areas you might not think of exploring with kids. You can even combine a super jeep with a trip to beautiful Landmanalaugher with this tour .
• Snorkel or Dive Between Continental Plates. For those a little older, a visit to Thingvellir National Park affords those with the fortitude the chance to snorkel or swim in one of the most unique locations in the world. The Silfra Fissure is the location where the continental plates are drifting apart creating a huge crack through the center of Iceland. Diving and snorkeling the Silfra Fissure is amazing, and you can find some family-friendly tours here .

Taste Some Local Icelandic Food

Iceland is slowly becoming known for its culinary expertise as much as it is known for the country’s natural beauty. Icelandic cooking has adapted to the limited resources available on the island and the local chefs have learned to create some truly amazing dishes.

Sure, sometimes it can be tough to get kids to try new foods, but travel is all about trying something new! Here are some of the dishes that our kids loved:

• Get your child’s Icelandic tasting started easily with Pylsur. Pylsur?! Your kids might say, ew, gross! But this dish has become one of the most beloved meals in Iceland. What is Pylsur? It’s actually the Icelandic name for Hot Dogs! There are several great hot dog stands in Iceland, and they are ALWAYS busy. Many of these places are cash-only, so make sure you have more than credit cards
• Start your day right with a bowl of Icelandic Skyr. Almost all of the locals in Iceland eat Skyr. This creamy combination that sits somewhere between yogurt and cottage cheese is a breakfast staple. Not only is it a healthy treat, but it can be mixed with fruit and jam into a delicious treat. This delicious yogurt has exploded across North America now and you can even order it online .
• Hold your nose and gulp down some …fermented shark? Ok, I’ll be honest with you, this is something we didn’t try ourselves. But it IS a thing in Iceland. Most locals find this vile-smelling dish abhorrent, but it is steeped in tradition here as well, so there is a market for it.

Experience Some of Iceland’s Quirkiest Attractions

Icelandic People can come across as cold. That is until you get to know them. In actual fact, Icelanders love to have fun, and there is unique humor in a lot of their attractions. These are some of our favorite wild and wacky attractions that are great for family travel to Iceland.

• Wander Through Petra’s Stone Collection in Stodvarfjordur . Petra’s Stone Collection is a wild collection of rocks, minerals, and memorabilia collected by Petra María that has been referred to as a cornerstone of the nation. This collection is quirky, featuring an odd assortment of stones from throughout the country and the world. Kids will love exploring the fairy gardens, painted rocks, and beautiful gardens of Petra’s backyard while adults can visit the museum to learn about Iceland’s ‘Grand Old Lady’.
• Search for Fairies in Songhellir, the ‘Singing Cave’. Iceland is known for its rich mystical history. Many Icelandic people believe in fairies, trolls and other incredible creatures, and Icelanders are known to have small houses in their garden for elves and the like to take shelter in. Songhellir is a cave located just off the Ring Road in an area famous for mythical sightings. The cave, known as the ‘singing cave’ due to wind pushing through the lava tubes is easy to climb into and the walls feature graffiti from explorers dating back hundreds of years.
• Explore some of Iceland’s beautiful beaches. No vacation with children is complete without a visit to the beach! And the greatest thing about the beach in Iceland is that you don’t need to worry about crowds. Just drive right on out, park in the sand, and get ready to make sandcastles. Just make sure to bring a thermos of hot chocolate, the water can get a bit chilly!

Take An Iceland Road Trip

It’s easy to spend 3 or 4 days in Reykjavik and the things to do near Reykjavik . There is a lot that you can see with just a few days in Iceland. But if you really want to delve into how incredibly amazing this country is , your best bet is to rent a car and explore.

Icelandic roads are super well-maintained and traffic laws are widely supported (and enforced, so drive safe!). Taking a road trip in Iceland with kids makes for an unforgettable experience. And it’s also the best way to explore the parts of Iceland that are often overlooked by visitors . Here are some of our top things you can see on a road trip in Iceland that you probably won’t see on a day trip from Reykjavik. You can check out AutoEurope for great car rental prices here.

• Drive through streams and rivers in the Icelandic Highlands. The Icelandic Highlands are a vast departure from the coastal areas of Iceland. For countless miles in each direction, the land is barren, rocky, and wild. Kids will love the thrill of driving through small streams and rivers in your 4×4 (because if you don’t have a 4×4, don’t go to the Highlands!). You’ll see towering mountains and glaciers such as the Askja Caldera . Just make sure you stock up on gas and supplies before you go. There are no service stations here.
• Check out some of Iceland’s less famous, but no less spectacular, waterfalls. As I mentioned earlier, Iceland is full of waterfalls. And many of them can’t be seen on an organized tour. They are either too off-the-beaten-path or just not included in organized Iceland tours. Some of the ones not to miss are Godafoss, Iceland’s most powerful waterfall, and the graceful Detifoss and Selfoss. These last two can be reached via a short hike .
• Watch Where the World Has Ripped Apart in Lakagigar. Our visit to Crater Row in Lakagigar was one of our most epic road trips in Iceland. It’s a long drive to get there, but WOW! When you arrive it will blow your mind. There are a series of beautiful volcanic caves that are cool to explore (young children might need a hand to hold for this one). But the best part is a hike up a small mountain (kids of all ages can do it with a little help). Here you can see where the earth was opened up like a zipper by a series of volcanic eruptions that devastated Iceland in the early 20th century.

What Are The Best Places To Stay In Iceland With Kids?

Iceland has some great hotels for family travel. Whether you are staying in Reykjavik or exploring deeper into the country, you’ll find friendly hosts and comfortable rooms.

Hotels in Reykjavik For Families

Reykjavik is the core of fun in Iceland with kids. It’s the biggest city and has the most options for family-friendly hotels in Iceland. You can find our complete list of the best hotels in Reykjavik for families here .

The Alda Hotel Reykjavik is one of the most popular hotels for families in Iceland. They have both a family room with a pullout couch and a suite with two bedrooms.The Canopy Hotel by Hilton also has suites and rooms with pullout couches. The downtown location makes getting around Reykjavik with kids a breeze. If those book up though there are always options for hotels in the city. You can check out more great Reykjavik accommodations here .

But family travel in Iceland isn’t limited to just Reykjavik. There are other cities worth checking out. If you visit Hella, I recommend Hotel Ranga . They have their own observatory which makes watching Iceland’s dark skies even more special. In the town of Vik check out Icelandair Hotel Vik . They even have triple rooms available, perfect for families. The Icelandair Hotel Akureyri is also a good spot for families heading to Iceland’s second-largest city.

There is a LOT to do in Iceland For Kids!

Exploring Iceland for kids can be a fun-filled adventure for the whole family! There is plenty to discover and learn in this beautiful country. The people are warm and friendly and when traveling Iceland with kids you can be sure that your presence will be cherished! Don’t be afraid to venture off-the-beaten-path and get to know this beautiful country a little better.

If you’re passionate about family travel, head on over to our Family Travel Support Group on Facebook . It’s a fantastic community of parents who love travel. We share experiences, knowledge, and the lessons learned along the way. You can also sign up for our newsletter to keep in the loop about new family travel adventures. You can check out our web story for this article here .

Wandering Wagars is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc., or its affiliates.

You May Also Like To Read:

Pin This Post For Later:

Tuesday 3rd of January 2023

Would you recommend staying in Reykjavík and then doing day trips to see the rest of Iceland or split up the trip staying in different towns/cities? We are planning for this summer while I’m on maternity leave with our 3 month old and 6 year old kids.

Kevin Wagar

Wednesday 4th of January 2023

I would only recommend doing daytrips from Reykjavik if you are focusing solely on southern Iceland. The distances are too great if you're looking at the Westfjords, Eastfjords, or northern regions. If you are planning an extended stay, moving around the country would be the ideal approach.

Katie Restrepo

Monday 24th of May 2021

This is very useful information, thanks! Iceland is on our radar for a future trip. Saving this for reference.

Thursday 27th of May 2021

It's a destination that will stay with you forever Katie! Enjoy your trip.

Friday 25th of October 2019

What ages have your kids when you travel to Iceland? Do you have any itinerary with the activities for the kids? I want to travel with my children (3-4 years old). Could you send me something?

Thanks a lot.

Hello Carlos, I've traveled to Iceland with children as young as 2 years old. Iceland is a destination that is good for children of all ages. And it is becoming one of the most popular adventure family travel destinations in the world. You can check out our Iceland itinerary for families here. And you can find more of our Iceland resources here.

Gemma Stringer

Tuesday 16th of October 2018

I have always wanted to visit Iceland but didn't think it was suitable for children so It is awesome seeing your post and knowing it is suitable. We have kids 10, 8 6 and 19 months so it is now definitely something to think about. I love your picture of the puffin - How long did you actually spent there as you seemed to fit a lot in?

Wednesday 17th of October 2018

Hi Gemma! I'm glad we could change your mind about visiting Iceland with kids! It's amazing and one of our favorite places in the world to visit. We spent two weeks in Iceland road-tripping around the country. There is quite a bit to see in less time if you can't spare as much time.

Jessica Baca

Monday 6th of August 2018

I'll be going with my two year old in about 2 weeks. What kind of clothes did your little one use?

The weather can be all over the map in Iceland so it's always best to be prepared. It's not a country that you want to pack light for if you are going to be doing off-the-beaten-path kind of exploring. But one of the best things that we brought were Merino wool base layers for all of us. Having something light and warm meant that we could layer off our clothes pretty easily and stay comfortable in almost all conditions. This is a great base layer for toddlers (we always aim up a size since they grow out of them so fast) https://wanderingwagars.com/product/B076P7NQC7/US/anderinagars-20/

Privacy Overview

APRIL SALE:   Book now and get   up to 60% off!

Iceland Family Tours & Vacation Packages

Let TourRadar take the hassle out of finding a trip for the whole family. With 201 tours of Iceland lasting from one day up to 23 days, you're sure to find a great family-friendly adventure. Looking beyond Iceland? See all family trips .

201 Iceland Family trips with 3,694 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

3 Day Family Package Iceland

Great tour guides and drivers knowledgeable and friendly. Perfect tour if you want to experience beauty of Iceland in a short time. Beggi, Anna and Atti are wonderful guides. Beggi’s brother who did the morning pickup was amazingly hilarious, throughly enjoyed the short run with him. Always on time for pickup.

Iceland Family Journey: Geysers, Glaciers, and Fjords

7 Day - Iceland Ring Road & Snæfellsnes Peninsula Small-Group Tour

I really enjoyed the trip around the island. Our tour guide, Emily, was great. There were a few places we could not go to in the North due to the weather so Emily took us to different things not on the agenda. All the hotels were great and all either had a restaurant or there were restaurants within walking distance. I would recommend this trip

• Northern Lights

5 Day - Snaefellsnes, South Coast and Northern Lights

Most incredible 5 days of my life. we got stuck in a snow storm on day 3, and plans changed but i could not have cared less. Ice cave hike was a highlight, plus all the incredible people we meet along the way. tour guide was so knowledge. could not recommend more!!

6 Day - Around Iceland Adventure

The 6 day around Iceland Adventure was a comprehensive tour of the country, offering a range of opportunities to get up close and personal with different aspects of this incredible country. From amazing waterfalls, landscapes, hot baths, ice caves and glaciers, to sampling Icelandic hospitality, it proved to be quite the memorable experience. I was lucky enough to travel with a great group of travellers, and we all had a lot of appreciation for our fantastic guide, G (Geirmundur...spl?!). He was professional, funny and informative, and he steered us through everything mother nature had to throw at us with skill and grace, ensuring we made the most of our time on the Island.

• In-depth Cultural

Natural Wonders of Iceland (Classic, 9 Days)

Active and was able to see many sites on the tour. Our guide Lana from insight was amazing.

• Coach / Bus

8 Days Guided Iceland Circle

It was an excellent trip for the value. Our guide was a wealth of information and friendly. our driver was very smooth and amazing on her ability to know exactly where the buses body was in some tight parking lots as well as handling everyone's bags and by second day recognized whose bag was whose. Would recommend better communication between front desk of hotel about pick-up for first day. The main office may have known time and location but front desk persons did not have that information.

• Sightseeing

Iceland including the Blue Lagoon (Summer, 6 Days)

The Trafalgar tour of Iceland and the Blue Lagoon was great. This was our first organized tour and we were a little nervous what to expect. It was a smallish group (around 20 people) which made for a more personal trip, and also more room on the coach. The tour itinerary included a number of Icelandic cultural experiences that we would likely have missed if we had organized our own plans. These made for a much richer trip, and we were glad they were included. Kudos go to the tour guides when a day's schedule had to be reworked at an hour's notice due to 100mph wind gusts that made driving unsafe. The "plan-B" turned out to be a rewarding experience in its own right, bravo Xavier & Amy! The highlight of the trip was seeing the Northern Lights on a nighttime boat ride outside Rekjavik harbor. (this cannot be guaranteed, but we were lucky). A low light was the Blue Lagoon, which was rather run-down. We had independently been to Sky Lagoon before the trip started, and that was a much better experience.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Natural Wonders of Iceland (Small Groups, 9 Days)

5 Days Land of Northern Lights

My overall experience was excellent even though I didn’t get to see the Northern Lights due to the bad weather conditions. Our tour Guide Erik was Excellent. He managed to drive the bus and speak to everyone on the bus at the same time, after our bus driver Emilio got sick the second day of our journey. Our tour guide is an experienced and excellent Driver and very knowledgeable.

6 Day Family Summer Tour - Private Tour

9 Day Around Iceland Family Summer Tour - Private Tour

Journey Around Iceland

Icelandic Adventure (2024)

The trip of a lifetime with a good group of 24 and a wonderful, knowledgeable and empathetic tour guide. An utterly fascinating country of amazing and often dramatic beauty. Keflavik airport is kind of a pain but a bit of patience gets you through.

• Coastal Walks

Iceland: Land of Fire & Ice (2024)

Reviews of iceland family tours.

Great experience in Xmas . Good service when I checked orders

Overall the guides and drivers were excellent - in their knowledge, driving safety, preparing the group for activities that were next on the list. The only down time during the day was some of the distances between stops. But not an issue as we were well aware of that before hand. A good value for the cost!!

Regions in Iceland

• South Iceland (96)
• Iceland South Coast (68)
• West Iceland (33)
• Reykjanes (13)
• North Iceland (10)
• Iceland Westfjords (8)
• East Iceland (7)

Travel Styles

• 10 Best Family Travel Agencies 2024
• Iceland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Iceland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 10 Day Iceland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• What is the best time to visit Iceland in 2024/2025?
• Weather in Iceland in 2024/2025

Thanks for visiting nordicvisitor.com! For the very best browsing experience on our website, we urge you to upgrade to the most recent version of your browser . Some of our site features may not function properly on older versions.

Iceland is open: volcano update

• Search Suggested Results View All Results
• EUR (€)
• GBP (£)
• Self-Drive i
• Privately Guided i
• Guided Small Groups i
• Multi-Day i
• Northern Lights i
• Honeymoon & Romance i
• Solo Travel i
• All Types & Themes
• All Iceland Tours
• Best Sellers
• Special Offers
• Book With Confidence i
• ICELAND IS OPEN i
• Iceland Volcano Update i
• Why book with us i
• Travel Update
• Booking Terms i
• Sustainability Policy i
• Iceland at a Glance i
• Useful Information i
• Iceland Attractions i
• Iceland Blog i
• Scandinavia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Manage Booking
• Privacy policy

Iceland Bíldshöfði 20 110 Reykjavík +354 578 20 80 View Map

Sweden Scotland View Details

Family-Friendly Vacation Trips in Iceland

Take the kids to Iceland for a vacation they’ll never forget, with the chance to see natural wonders like waterfalls and glaciers. A local travel expert at Nordic Visitor will design your family trip to Iceland, arranging all your accommodation, transport and activities for you.

9 tours available

Prices per adult based on bookings for two

• Top vacations
• Summer packages
• Nordic trips for families

DIFFERENT WAYS TO TRAVEL

• Self-drive tours
• Privately guided trips
• Multi-day packages
• Guided small group tours

Sorry, we found no tours matching your criteria.

Try adjusting or clearing your filters

South & West Iceland Classic

South iceland at leisure, south & west iceland at leisure, iceland road trip, iceland full circle at leisure, iceland grand tour.

Countries Visited Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark

Best of Scandinavia & Iceland

Train, cruise & minibus.

Countries Visited Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Estonia

The Nordic Countries Complete

Train, cruise & self-drive, the nordic countries classic, need any help so far talk with our local experts.

Live chat with travel consultants

Send your queries using our contact form

Call us toll-free to ask your questions

About Your Iceland Family Vacation

Whether you’ve got young children, teenagers or grown-up kids, visiting Iceland with the family is an incredible experience. Together you could explore out-of-this-world scenery and enjoy Icelandic family activities like horseback riding. Our Reykjavík-based travel experts can create your dream tour for you.

When you book a family trip to Iceland with Nordic Visitor, you get:

• An authentic travel experience organised by an established and trusted agency • A dedicated travel consultant who will arrange your tour • A detailed online personal itinerary with all your bookings • Hand-picked accommodation for a relaxing stay • 24/7 phone support for peace of mind • A hand-delivered hard copy of your personalised itinerary and map

Nordic Visitor has made it easy to start planning your family vacation. Simply follow these steps:

1. Pick your favourite Nordic Visitor tour 2. Confirm your package 3. Check your confirmation email 4. Book your flights 5. Get ready for your trip

Why choose Nordic Visitor

Book With Confidence

Secure your trip your way with Nordic Visitor. Book a tour with as little as 10% deposit. With a 20% deposit or more, you will receive our Cancellation Protection free of charge. You can also pay the full price right away to guarantee today’s exchange rate. Terms & conditions apply.

You are in good hands

When you explore Iceland on a tour with us, we’ll be there for you around the clock. You’ll have access to our 24/7 helpline for local support if you need it. Should any unforeseen event occur, your Nordic Visitor travel consultant will handle it, reworking your itinerary while keeping you safe and informed.

Trusted local travel experts

Founded in Reykjavík in 2002, Nordic Visitor is a leading travel agency with a true passion for Iceland. Our local travel experts all know the country inside out and will use their knowledge to craft an itinerary that suits all your family members. They’ll make sure you have the trip of a lifetime.

Great reviews

Nordic Visitor is dedicated to the best service quality, and this is reflected year after year when TripAdvisor awards us with their Certificate of Excellence. We also take great pride in our customer feedback: 97% of our travellers say they would recommend us to friends and family.

Customisable tour options

Your dedicated travel consultant will be happy to customise an Iceland itinerary to match your family travel wish list. Don’t hesitate to ask them about adding extra nights or destinations. They’ll come up with activity suggestions for the kids and ensure your tour package is appropriate for the whole family.

Full financial protection

With Nordic Visitor, you have peace of mind knowing your tour arrangements with us are 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with European Union laws on Package Travel regulations. This guarantees you a refund in the unlikely event of insolvency.

Handpicked hotels

Where you stay on your vacation is of the utmost importance when you travel with children. That’s why we handpick every accommodation included in your itinerary, ensuring that each one is conveniently located and meets your family’s needs. We only work with hotels that are highly rated by our customers.

ICELAND FAMILY TRIP REVIEWS

Find out what other family travellers thought about their Nordic Visitor tour.

Tim Singapore

Although we have travelled extensively over the years, this is the first time we have used a service like Nordic... read more

Although we have travelled extensively over the years, this is the first time we have used a service like Nordic Visitor because Iceland was new and quite different territory for us. The travel package (booklet, annotated map, vouchers) laid the trip out clearly and guided the selection of personalised activities depending on our interests and the weather. Most importantly, Clarence and Klara listened to our family's needs and tailored the 2-week ring road trip accordingly. At all times the responses were timely, professional and helpful. This efficiency meant we had confidence in the arrangements before we left home and throughout the trip. Overall, the trip exceeded our expectations and was a wonderful holiday that we attribute largely to the pre-trip planning and in-trip support provided by Clarence. We have already recommended Nordic Visitor to others.

Reid United States

The whole experience was wonderful and very easy. We felt very comfortable heading to Iceland knowing that everything... read more

The whole experience was wonderful and very easy. We felt very comfortable heading to Iceland knowing that everything was taken care of ahead of time and as a family of four, we had a wonderful experience with great memories.

Your Family Holiday Highlights

Imagine you’ve just touched down in Reykjavík, Iceland’s capital city. Your family holiday is about to begin. Next, you could...

• Learn about Iceland’s natural wonders together at museums in Reykjavík, such as the Perlan
• Explore the Golden Circle to marvel at cool sights like Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir hot spring
• Stroll between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in Þingvellir National Park
• Meet small and fluffy Icelandic horses, or opt for a horse riding excursion near Reykjavík
• Enjoy a family boat trip over the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon to see the floating icebergs up close
• Take a journey into the centre of the earth at the Víðgelmir lava tunnel near Húsafell
• See marine wildlife together on a whale-watching tour from Akureyri , Húsavík or Reykjavík
• Discover black sand beaches like Reynisfjara and spot cute puffins at the Dyrhólaey rock arch
• Relax in the warm waters of the Blue Lagoon for a swim the kids will always remember

Advice About Visiting Iceland

Get ready for your Iceland tour with these practical tips.

Climate & weather conditions

How icy is Iceland? You might be surprised

What to pack

Layers, layers, layers! Come prepared for all types of weather

Health & Safety

How to stay safe and healthy while travelling in Iceland

Driving in Iceland

Are you prepared for your road trip? Learn the rules of the road and more here

Frequently Asked Questions About Iceland Family Trips

If you’ve got questions about what it’s like to visit Iceland with kids, we’ve got the answers here for you. Read on for expert guidance regarding Iceland family vacation packages, including practical advice and insider tips.

Alternatively, learn about our booking terms , have a look at our general FAQs , or find out about our Book With Confidence travel plan.

1. IS ICELAND KID-FRIENDLY?

The great news for travellers with kids is that Iceland is a really family-friendly place. You’ll be pleased to know that Iceland ranks as the most peaceful country in the world , year after year, thanks to high standards of health and safety. It also helps that Icelanders are delightfully warm and welcoming.

2. IS ICELAND A GOOD PLACE FOR A FAMILY VACATION?

Iceland is one of the coolest travel destinations for families. Your kids will bring home unforgettable memories of seeing mind-blowing natural attractions, swimming in geothermal pools, and meeting cute animals like puffins and horses. They’ll have plenty to brag about to their friends when they get home!

3. WHAT TO DO IN ICELAND WITH THE FAMILY?

When you take a family trip to Iceland, there are simply so many fun activities you can do together. These are the top recommended things to do in Iceland with kids:

• Admire views of volcanoes and glaciers
• Ride an Icelandic horse
• Walk through lava caves and tunnels
• Go puffin and whale watching
• Visit interactive museums and exhibitions
• Try delicious Icelandic ice cream and hot dogs
• Swim in warm geothermal pools
• Chase the northern lights in winter
• Discover Icelandic myths and legends
• Marvel at the stunning waterfalls in Iceland

For more tips on what to do with the family in Iceland, check out this complete guide to visiting Iceland with kids .

4. IS ICELAND SUITABLE FOR TODDLERS?

You can absolutely enjoy a trip to Iceland with toddlers. Iceland isn’t all about adventure and thrilling activities. There are plenty of easy-going ways to explore the scenery and culture, like taking a day trip to the Golden Circle from Reykjavík. Plus, the capital city itself is full of fun attractions.

5. WHAT CAN TODDLERS DO IN ICELAND?

You only need to look to the locals for inspiration on what to do in Iceland with toddlers. One particular advantage is that many activities and attractions here are free for kids under the age of 6.

Here are our experts’ recommendations on the best things to do in Iceland with toddlers:

• Pet Icelandic horses and goats at family-friendly farms
• Enjoy playing in Reykjavík’s swimming pools
• Look for whales and dolphins on a boat tour
• Attend local events like the Children’s Culture Festival
• Tour the Golden Circle to see towering waterfalls
• Watch geysers spurting water high up into the air
• Go for strolls on black sand beaches
• Explore glaciers, volcanoes and space in the Perlan museum
• Spot adorable puffins frolicking on the coast
• Taste an Icelandic specialty: ice cream!

To avoid long journeys but still experience Iceland’s wonders, you could base yourselves in Reykjavík. For more ideas on what to do in the capital with little ones, discover the best family-friendly activities in Reykjavík on our blog.

6. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT ICELAND WITH KIDS?

For your trip to Iceland with kids, we’d recommend that you visit Iceland in summer . That’s because the weather is milder between April and September compared to the winter months. You’d also have more hours of daylight at this time of year, meaning more opportunities to explore.

An Iceland family vacation in the summer would allow you to enjoy seasonal excursions like wildlife watching and glacier lagoon boat tours. Plus, with more daylight hours, you’d be able to pack in more sights and activities on the same day.

The longer days give you more flexibility, which is ideal when you’re travelling with kids!

You could drive around the Ring Road to experience the different regions of Iceland on a self-drive tour . As the days are lighter for longer in the summer, your children will be distracted by the jaw-dropping natural scenery outside their window on car journeys.

Alternatively, if you have teenagers or young adults, you could visit Iceland in winter . You might see waterfalls cloaked in ice, and snow blanketing the lava fields. What’s more, you’d still be able to soak in Iceland’s hot springs and geothermal pools at this time of year.

Winter is the best time of year to s ee the northern lights in Iceland . You and your family could chase the colourful aurora borealis on a guided tour, watching in awe as they light up the dark night sky.

For more inspiration, check out these Iceland guides:

Best time to visit Iceland

Top things to do in Iceland in summer

Top things to do in Iceland in winter

7. WHERE TO STAY IN ICELAND WITH THE FAMILY?

Iceland has many family-friendly accommodation options you can choose from. When you take a Nordic Visitor tour, your dedicated travel consultant books you into the best and most suitable properties for you. They handpick each accommodation to match your preferences and can arrange stays in family rooms.

If you'd prefer these larger rooms, we recommend you book in advance. This is because they tend to be limited – for example, there may only be one or two family rooms at each hotel. Get in touch with us ahead of time and we will organise the bookings for you.

Discover these top luxury and boutique hotels in Iceland if you want to stay somewhere really special with the kids.

8. WHAT TO PACK FOR ICELAND WITH KIDS?

You should pack for all seasons for your family trip, as Iceland’s climate tends to be changeable. You’ll need gear for rain, wind, sun, and maybe even snow. So long as you’re prepared with the right clothing, you won’t need to worry about what the weather may be!

Here’s our recommended packing list for Iceland with kids:

• Fleece jackets or lightweight wool sweaters
• Waterproof and windproof jackets
• Waterproof and windproof trousers
• Sturdy walking shoes or wellington boots
• Warm hats, scarves and gloves
• Thermal underwear and warm socks
• Caps or sun hats
• Swimwear and sandals

If you’re visiting in summer, bring SPF lotion and sunglasses with you. You could also pack eye masks to help everyone sleep when it’s bright outside at night. Or if you’re planning your trip for the winter, make sure you all have enough warm layers as well as insulated and waterproof jackets.

It’s good to know that if you go on a self-drive tour of Iceland, we can rent baby boosters for you should you require them. Just ask us about any particular equipment you’ll need for your kids when you’re in Iceland. Our travel team will arrange it for you.

Check out our in-depth guide on what to pack and what to wear in Iceland for more advice.

9. CAN I CUSTOMISE OUR TOUR?

Your dedicated travel consultant will be delighted to tailor your Iceland getaway in line with your family’s tastes and preferences. Be sure to tell them about any specific requirements you have. They can always come up with activity suggestions depending on the ages and interests of your children.

You might have particular experiences in mind, such as exploring glaciers, wildlife watching, or swimming in geothermal pools. Our Iceland travel experts can advise you on the best places to go as they know Iceland like the back of their hand. They will be happy to design a bespoke itinerary for you!

For the most customisable itineraries, choose from our self-drive tours or privately guided vacation packages . These are fully flexible so the whole itinerary can be tailored for you.

Take a look at the best activities in Iceland or read about the top places to visit in Iceland on our expert’s blog.

10. CAN I CHOOSE THE ARRIVAL DATES?

Yes, you can choose your preferred arrival dates. Our Iceland family holiday packages are available to purchase on our website so you can select your dates online.

If you’ve already got a tour but now need to change your dates, contact your travel consultant as soon as possible to rearrange your trip.

11. WHEN SHOULD I ORGANISE OUR FLIGHT TICKETS?

We suggest that you book your flights only after your Nordic Visitor tour has been confirmed. You can always search for flights in the meantime, so you know what’s available. But wait until your travel consultant has secured your tour package before you purchase any flights.

By doing this your dedicated travel consultant will be able to introduce themselves to you and send you all of your booking details. Therefore, you can make a more informed choice when reserving flights in and out of Iceland. If you have any questions you can always contact us for advice .

Start putting your trip ideas into motion by getting in touch with our Iceland travel experts. They will be glad to arrange an unforgettable family vacation for you.

Our Icelandic phone number is +354 578 20 80

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

Blog Articles

How many days do you need in iceland, 18 top things to do in iceland: the best activities & sights, iceland with kids: your complete guide, favourite family-friendly activities in reykjavik.

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.

Iceland with Kids | A Family Guide to Iceland 

Where to Stay

• Go Sightseeing

Visit the Golden Circle

Bathe in hot springs and geothermal pools, get to know the animals of iceland, reykjavik family park and zoo, whale and puffin watching, ride the icelandic horse, dog sledding.

• Seethe Seals

Visit the Petting Zoo Slakki

Go on adventures, walk up or go inside a glacier, river rafting, lava caving.

• Fly in a Helicopter
• Reykjavík with Kids

What is it like traveling to Iceland with kids? What tours, activities, and adventures are you able to bring your children on? What are the most exciting activities for your Icelandic family holiday? Read on for all the information needed to plan the perfect family trip to Iceland.

As a travel destination, Iceland stands out as one of the most family-friendly places you can visit. The local culture offers an attitude of general safety, and it is common for local kids to play outside, even after dark, when the cold winter months provide only limited sunlight each day.

Boasting a relatively low-crime rate, Iceland even topped the Global Peace Index (GPI) report for ten consecutive years in a row. This societal feeling of safety is so integrated that some Icelandic customs might appear strange—or even reckless—to visitors not used to the culture's mentality towards safety.

Top Vacation Packages in Iceland

3-day northern lights tour of iceland’s golden circle & south coast with ice caving & glacier hiking, 8-day guided northern lights winter tour of the complete ring road of iceland, 10-day self-drive tour of the complete ring road of iceland with top attractions & snaefellsnes.

• Book a Family-Friendly Tour Bundle  and experience fun for all the family
• Allow Guide to Iceland to tailor the Perfect Family Holiday  
• Take the stress out of your trip by booking a Package Vacation
• Find out  What to do With Young Kids in the Reykjavík Area   
• Discover What to do With Older Kids in the Reykjavík Area  

An example of this laid-back mentality would be the standard practice of infants being left, seemingly unattended, in their strollers and buggies outside cafés and restaurants, often on a busy shopping street and in cold weather. No need to be alarmed when you spot an unattended baby; the parent is most likely right inside keeping a watchful eye on their young one. 

The reason for this has to do with the purity of the air in Iceland; it is commonly believed that it is healthiest for children to nap out in the open, breathing the healthiest air possible. Icelandic parents are also well aware of how cold it can get, meaning they have certainly properly dressed their children to keep them comfortable from the elements.

• See also: The 10 Weirdest Things about Icelanders  

Even if you don’t feel like participating in this seemingly strange local custom, you should know that you have found a remarkably safe and family-friendly destination when you choose to take a family vacation to Iceland.  

When you begin planning your family holiday to Iceland it will immediately become clear just how many exciting activities Iceland has to offer. However, you might have some questions: Can you bring your kids on a volcano tour? Are they able to do a glacier hike? Or go on a whale-watching vessel? Do tours have age restrictions?

In this article, we have gathered some useful information on things like age limits for specific tours and top recommendations to keep both you and your children entertained and safe during your travels around the island of ice and fire, no matter the season.

Read on to discover how to plan an unforgettable family holiday in Iceland!

Top Adventure Tours in Iceland

When traveling with family, it is sometimes preferable to rent an entire apartment or home. This gives everyone space to spread out, whereas a single hotel room might get a bit tight for larger families. There are cabins, apartments, and houses of all shapes, sizes, and prices available for rental all over the country, some of them sleeping up to 16 people and allowing everyone on the trip to stay together in one palace. This also usually gives you access to a full kitchen, meaning mealtime with kids can be a lot easier. 

If you prefer booking hotels, look for those that designate themselves as family-friendly and check reviews to see what other parents have to say. You certainly don’t want to find yourself in a youth hostel where the sounds of partying keeps your kids up all night!

Go Sightseeing 

One of the easiest ways to take the whole family around Iceland's renowned natural attractions is to book a self-driving tour or package, where you are in full control of the pace of your journey and which sites to visit. When you book a self-drive, your transport , accommodation and excursions are all organized before your arrival, along with a personalized travel itinerary prepared by local experts.

A self-drive tour allows you a much richer experience than you might have on a typical sightseeing tour and tends to be much more comfortable for young children. The possible array of activities available to your family are sure to excite and provide a myriad of memorable and educational adventures.

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most popular and famous sightseeing route for good reason; the views and attractions are simply awe-inspiring. These views include the erupting geysers of Haukadalur Geothermal Valley , the mighty cascade of Gullfoss Waterfall, and the stunning continental rift valley of Þingvellir —filled to the brim with Viking history.

Despite these incredible views making you feel like you’re on another planet, the route is conveniently located close to the capital of Reykjavík and can easily be traversed within a single day. Driving between the sites does not take long at all, and you don’t have to drive backtrack. The circular route boasts a manageable distance of approximately 140 miles (230 kilometers).

• See also: How to Drive Safely in Iceland 

If you are staying in Reykjavík City with your family, and renting a car or booking a self-drive doesn’t adhere to your travel plans, you can also enjoy the Golden Circle via a bus tour. While bus tours usually have no age limit, they differ in length and extra activities, so for families with very young children, we recommend shorter versions to better fit the stamina of the young ones’ sightseeing abilities, such as this six-hour option .

Top Golden Circle Tours

Basking in the heated geothermal pools that Iceland is famous for has been a popular family activity ever since the Age of Settlement , where the heat from the volcanic activity beneath the island’s surface has offered welcome warmth to the dwellers of this icy nation. 

Today, public swimming pools and geothermal springs are found in nearly every town and village across the country. Most of these include facilities for children, such as wading pools and small water slides.

• See also: Best Swimming Pools in Iceland

Travelers of all ages love visiting the myriad of Iceland’s natural hot pools. These can easily be located yourself when renting a car or embarking on a self-drive tour. If, for instance, you are traversing the Golden Circle route, you can stop at the geothermal valley Reykjadalur by  Hveragerði and hike up to the natural hot springs that dot the area. You can also take a tour to this site.

For the ultimate luxury hot spring experience, establishments across the country offer geothermally heated nature baths, often built right into their natural surroundings. The most popular of these would be the world-famous  Blue Lagoon , a geothermal spa located in between Reykjavík City and Keflavík Airport, where children as young as two-years-old can enter.

The lagoon is an immensely popular option, but is far from the only one boasting the acclaimed benefits of tranquility and relaxation. The Fontana Geothermal Baths in Laugarvatn have no age limit, as well as offering free entry for children under thirteen—the same goes for the Mývatn Nature Baths in North Iceland. The stunning Secret Lagoon at Flúðir Village also provides free admission for kids under the age of fourteen.

• Find  transfer and admission to the Secret Lagoon  

Iceland might not be the first place that comes to mind when seeking a beach holiday, but if the weather is nice you can pack up the sunscreen and volleyball and head to Nauthólsvík , a man-made resort where geothermal heating is used to warm the Atlantic Ocean within a barricaded bay. You'll find outdoor hot tubs and changing-rooms amongst sunbathing locals on a fair-coloured strip of sand situated by the Reykjavík University .

• See also: The 13 Most Enchanting Beaches in Iceland 

With such a wide selection of options, wherever you are basing your travels, your whole family can enjoy doing what Icelanders love best—which is to soak, swim, play, relax and renew—outdoors together in warm and restorative waters.

Nothing gives children joy like animals do! Luckily, Iceland doesn’t have any particularly dangerous wildlife so kids can safely view these magnificent creatures in the wild (from a distance of course; never pet or feed wild animals!).

In Iceland, the animal life ranges from whales to seals, horses to puffins, and everything in between! Children can enjoy educational and exciting excursions to see or interact with these animals and make memories that last a lifetime. Read on for our top recommendations for adventures to satisfy animal lovers of all ages.

• See also: Wildlife and Animals in Iceland

The park boasts a diverse collection of domestic and wild Icelandic animals as well as a number of fun rides suitable for all ages. It's a fun and educational  way to spend an afternoon during the summertime with the younger generation.

You can visit the Reykjavik Family Park & Zoo during your stay in  Reykjavik  or as part of a  self-drive tour of Iceland . You can also purchase a  24-hour Reykjavik City Card , which includes free entry to the Reykjavik Family Park & Zoo and several  galleries and museums in Reykjavik .

On a whale watching adventure, spectators of all ages can witness majestic sea mammals roaming wild and free in their natural habitat. The different species of whale that inhabit Iceland’s shores are most commonly alluring minke whales, followed by acrobatic humpbacks, playful white-beaked dolphins, timid harbour porpoises and majestic orcas. After a successful tour, your child will surely have picked out their favorite of the bunch.

Whale watching tours on traditional vessels don’t have a particular age limit and are available throughout the year from the Old Harbour of the capital city of Reykjavík, as well as Akureyri and Húsavík in the North, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in the West. As long as the waters are calm, you are free to bring even the very youngest onboard.

• See also: Whale Watching in Iceland  and  Where to Find Puffins in Iceland

As if whale watching wasn't already exciting enough, during the summer whale watching tours often include puffin watching . These are usually conducted onboard a RIB boat, where the age-limit is ten-years-old. If your child hasn’t reached that age, don’t worry—puffins can still be found on self-drive tours of the South Coast or Westfjords , from April through August.

Having the chance to see these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat is an experience children will remember for life, placing whale and puffin watching tours amongst the most ideal family-friendly adventures available in Iceland.

Top Whale Watching & Puffin Tours

Horseback riding is a popular activity for all ages all over the world, but a ride in the Icelandic countryside on the calm and unique Icelandic horse is a once in a lifetime experience. These horses (not ponies!) are short in stature but very strong, with a comfortable gait unique to the breed called the Tolt. These horses are famously gentle and friendly, and will provide your child with a safe and unforgettable day. 

These amazing horses arrived in the country with the very first settlers, and their lack of predators created a brave breed that spooks at nothing and loves attention from humans. Children as young as seven are typically allowed on riding tours, but the trips vary in length and location, allowing you to pick the ideal adventure for you and your family.

Top Horse Riding Tours

• See also: The Icelandic Horse | A Comprehensive Guide  

A relatively new addition to Iceland’s varied activities, dog sledding is fast becoming a not-to-be-missed experience for animal enthusiasts. On a dog sledding adventure, your kids can encounter Greenland Dogs, as well as Siberian and Alaskan huskies—different species of sled dogs, all equal in their loveliness. 

These tours operate all through the year, where the skis of the sled get replaced with wheels as the snow melts away during the summer season. Your guide is called a musher, who will inform you about the basics of dog sledding and introduce your kids to their new best friends, with plentiful opportunities for cuddling before hitting the road. 

While most dog sledding tours available have an age limit of six, there are those that allow children as young as two to ride the sleds, as well as some operators offering reduced prices for children under twelve. If your kid loves dogs—and what kid doesn’t—why not make their trip especially memorable by allowing them to shoot across the Icelandic countryside with their new furry friends?

Top Dog Sledding Tours

See the seals.

The Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is one of Iceland’s ultimate attractions, where massive icebergs floating in a deep blue lake share a home with Icelandic seals, many of which are curious enough to greet visitors to their domain. A boat ride of the lagoon has no age limit if the vessel is an amphibian boat , but for the zodiac , passengers must be at least ten years old. 

Imagine the memories your kids will take back with them after spotting arctic seals lounging on massive icebergs, up close and all around. Tours of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in West Iceland also include seal watching, and there is a fair chance of spotting these doe-eyed dogs of the sea on any coastal activity around Iceland. 

If your kids are really into these captivating animals, the Icelandic Seal Centre on the Vatnsnes Peninsula is a must-visit. The centre offers a wealth of information on these fascinating creatures, from their anatomy to their place in Icelandic culture and fables. The centre is not only educational and entertaining, but an important research institution that monitors the animals’ populations to help build a sustainable seal-watching industry in Iceland. 

• See also: Seals and Seal Watching in Iceland 

Dýragarðurinn í Slakka is a conveniently located petting zoo and farm on the South Coast of Iceland. The animals who live there include kittens, puppies, calves, piglets, rabbits, mice and parrots. There is no age limit for visiting, so bring all your animal-loving family members for a memorable day of reconnecting with nature and farm life. 

The location also boasts pool tables, a playground, an arcade, and a mini-golf course, as well as a café and ice cream shop. Slakki is open every weekend of April and every day from May through August. If you are travelling with a group it is possible to arrange a visit outside regular opening hours upon contacting the establishment.

For a family holiday brimming with excitement, there is an array of adventure tours available for kids of different ages to participate in. Following are our top recommendations, along with information on age-limits, for outdoor adventures in Iceland. 

A popular Icelandic adventure is a glacier hike up one of the country's many stunning ice caps. For most of the shorter tours of easy difficulty the age limit is eight or ten. However, this tour  of Skálafellsjökull Glacier offers to take you most of the way onboard a super jeep and then walk on the ice, with an age limit of five years old. 

There are two ways to explore the insides of a glacier in Iceland, an increasingly sought-after activity to adventurous visitors. One can either go into an authentic, naturally formed ice cave during the winter season, or venture through a man-made ice tunnel all year-round. 

To be allowed on an ice cave tour, your child must be eight. However, for an educational journey inside the man-made ice tunnels of the country’s second-largest glacier,  Langjökull , there is no age limit as long as parents are aware that they are responsible for their children. 

Top Glacier Tours

If you want to take your family river rafting, the glacier river Hvítá in South Iceland is one of the most popular rafting venues of the country. The first half of the river consists of gentle currents, where children over the age of ten can join. For the whole distance, the age requirement goes up to twelve as the rapids get bigger. 

In North Iceland the beautiful river of Vestari Jökulsá boasts a specialized family rafting tour for all children aged six and up. The tour includes not only rafting but swimming, water-fighting, and a treat of hot chocolate made from the area’s natural spring water. 

• Find a  rafting tour of Hvítá River  here

Going inside a lava cave allows your family to explore the underworld of Iceland's geothermal activity, where colourful tunnels offer adventures for all daredevil kids to enjoy.

Within Snæfellsjökull National Park in West Iceland you’ll find the lava cave Vatnshellir , a colorful underworld so easy to navigate that children as young as five years old can join in on the excursion. Another cave with the same age requirement is Iceland's most visited lava tube, Leiðarendi,  on the Reykjanes Peninsula, conveniently including transport to and from the capital of Reykjavík.

For an extremely accessible cave for all ages and abilities consider visiting Raufarholshellir, close to Hveragerdi in South Iceland. The cave includes steps, but if your child can walk on their own or if you can carry them down a flight of stairs, there is no minimum age requirement. Children under twelve are allowed on the tour for free. 

Top Lava Cave Tours

Fly in a helicopter .

For unparalleled views of Iceland’s natural wonders and rugged terrain, numerous helicopter tours exist that take you across the sky to different touchdowns around the country. The age requirement for most of these is two years old, while the duration of the tours differ from 40 minutes to several hours.

Some helicopter operators even offer specialized seatbelts that allow you to hold your infant in your lap if the child is younger than two. You might have more appreciation for the view than your infant, but you could enjoy making memories with them all the same.

Top Helicopter Tours

• Find  a Reykjavík City helicopter tour that allows for children under two years old  

Reykjavík with Kids 

Now that we’ve covered what sights and activities are best suited for children while navigating the countryside, it’s time to explore the family-friendly options within the capital. Reykjavik City is a bustling, small-scale metropolis that seems to strike an ideal balance between big-city excitement and the wholesome innocence of a small harbour town. 

• See also: The Ultimate Guide to Downtown Reykjavík  and  Top 10 Things to Do in Reykjavík

The centre, or the downtown, is the city’s most densely populated area and where most travellers find themselves staying during their time in Reykjavik. Our first recommendation is as simple as taking your kids on a stroll around the centre, where a myriad of shops, cafés, restaurants, and boutiques await for all ages to enjoy. 

• See also: The Best Restaurants in Reykjavík
• See also: Top 21 Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurants in Reykjavík  
• See also: Cafés in Reykjavík | A Guide to Icelandic Coffee Culture

If you are visiting Reykjavik in summer, you can always spend a sunny afternoon in one of the capital’s public parks. These include the spacious Klambratun, a large area of greenery encompassing the museum Kjarvalsstadir and sporting equipment such as a volleyball net and frisbee golf course.

Another park of note is Hljomskalagardurinn, a picturesque esplanade boasting a pavilion and a small sculpture garden, located right by the city pond.

A favorite activity for local and visiting families alike is the city pond, known as Tjornin, a precious inner-city gem. For decades local children have enjoyed bringing food to feed the ducks and swans that live in the pond.

Please note that it is not suggested that the birds should be fed, in summer since their food sources are already plentiful, and bread will not only upset their stomachs but lure predatory seagulls that prey on the chicks. If you feel the need to feed the birds then opt for lettuce, corn, or peas. 

• See also: Tjörnin | The Pond in Reykjavík

Seemingly floating on top of this scenic body of water is the landmark building of Reykjavík City Hall . After taking your kids to explore the famous 3D map of Iceland, located within the building, you can get your hands on the Reykjavík City Card , the most budget-conscious way of exploring the culture and attractions of Reykjavík. 

The Reykjavík City Card is available for both children and adults, for either 24, 48 or 72 hours, and by purchasing it you receive unlimited access to almost all city museums and galleries. These include the Árbær Open Air Museum , an interactive adventureland where kids can explore different time periods of Iceland’s history. 

The family-friendly merits of the card continue, as it serves as a voucher for the myriad of geothermal swimming pools in Reykjavík, of which nearly all include kiddie pools, toys, and slides. If you are without a car to reach all of these destinations, don’t worry; the card functions as a bus ticket as well. 

• Click here to purchase your Reykjavík City Card online

The card also grants access to The Reykjavík Family Park and Zoo , an action-packed amusement park and farm animal zoo in Laugardalur Valley. Also in Laugardalur Valley, right next to the Family Park and Zoo, you’ll find the Reykjavík Botanical Gardens , the perfect place for frolicking in nature and getting to know the flora of Iceland. 

The picturesque gardens are home to over 5000 different species of plants and are open all year round, without charge to the public. Within the park, we recommend enjoying refreshments at Flóran Garden Bistro, an adorable pavilion sitting next to a pond populated with colorful Koi fish. 

Before leaving Laugardalur Valley, take note that across the gardens you’ll find the Reykjavík Ice Skating Rink, an indoor venue offering skates for rent. The valley is also home to the geothermal swimming pool Laugardalslaug , a favorite to many kids since it boasts one of the biggest water slides in the country. 

• See also: The Best Swimming Pools in Reykjavík 

Last but not least, the Reykjavík City Card doubles as a voucher for the daily ferry trips from Reykjavík Harbour to Videy Island . The island of Videy rests in Kollafjordur Bay just outside of Reykjavík’s central harbour area, and is home to historical ruins and over 30 species of bird. It’s the ideal venue to enjoy a picnic and a day off from the bustling city streets, all the while providing educational fun for your children. 

Videy Island houses ruins from deserted villages, old turf houses, a monastery, and the 12th century home and church of Skuli Magnusson, who is known as the “Father of Reykjavik.” Yoko Ono’s Imagine Peace Tower is also located on the island, where it is lit up each year between the dates of John Lennon’s birthday and death, from October 9th until December 8th. 

For the artistic family, the Reykjavík City Library is located close to the harbour, boasting books both in Icelandic and English for interested bookworms, as well as special events including crafting, computer programming, and art workshops. 

Right next to the library you’ll find the Kolaportid Flea Market , open on weekends, where you can rummage for trinkets and authentic wool sweaters amongst stacks of DVDs, vinyl, and books from all over the world. 

Plenty of tours offer pick up from the city or operate directly in the city, including horse riding, whale watching, city walks, and adventure tours. You could also hike through the forestry of Oskjuhlid to end up at Perlan , a glass dome built on top of six sizable water tanks, with an observation deck boasting panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. 

Recent renovations at Perlan include the Glacier Exhibition of Iceland, an interactive exhibit of the island’s glaciers and ice caves. If your child isn't old enough to go on glacier tours, this exhibition is the next best thing and is sure to amaze.

In addition to the glacier exhibit, the Perlan offers further exhibits including "Land, Coast, Ocean," "Northern Lights," and Iceland's very first planetarium. The venue also houses a restaurant, café, and gift shop. 

Finally, you might be interested in purchasing tickets for the Hop On - Hop Off City Sightseeing Bus , which allows you and your family to explore some of the city’s best locations, including Perlan, Hallgrímskirkja Church, and the Whales of Iceland interactive museum, at your own pace.

So whether you prefer circumnavigating the island on a self-drive or staying in the city and going on tours, the sightseeing possibilities are nearly endless, with many of the adventures suitable for even the youngest members of your family. 

Now there’s nothing left to do but plan your Icelandic adventure, and know that you can do so by contacting one of our certified locals  who are more than happy to help you organize the perfect family holiday.

Iceland can't wait to welcome you and your family!

Did you find our family guide to Iceland article helpful? What are your plans with your kids in Iceland? Do you have any additional questions? Feel free to ask away, or leave your thoughts and comments in the box below! 

Popular articles

Guide to Iceland | The Story of the Leading Travel Agency of Iceland

The Complete Guide to the Midnight Sun in Iceland

Top 20 Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Iceland

22 Photos of the Aurora in Iceland

Mountains in Iceland

Other interesting articles.

Skiing and Snowboarding in Iceland

The Ultimate Guide to Hunting in Iceland

Shopping for Groceries in Iceland

Download Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.

Top things to do in Iceland

Book your complete trip with the best companies only

Explore an Ice Cave

Visit a Live Volcano

Find the Northern Lights

Visit the Blue Lagoon

Go on a Road Trip

Do the Golden Circle

See the Glacier Lagoon

South Coast Tours

Iceland is open for travel. Check volcano updates here

• Language/Currency CN Language CN Chinese $ USD ISK ISK $ USD € EUR CA$ CAD £ GBP

Family Tours in Iceland

Guided tours for your ultimate icelandic family adventure.

Family Trips & Tours

• About Family vacation in Iceland

WHY CHOOSE ICELAND FOR YOUR FAMILY VACATION?

Iceland is a great destination for a trip abroad as a family for many reasons. It has huge appeal for all ages, not to mention countless attractions designed specifically for little ones.

Iceland has dominated the list of the safest countries in the world for 12 years in a row , and all our adventure activities are provided with strict safety precautions and equipment. What’s more, the natural landscapes are so breathtaking that even the fussiest youngster will be mesmerized. Many local attractions or even tours welcome young children free of charge! 

The tours you’ll find on this page are all specially tailored to accommodate families with children of all ages. Take your pick and sit back while we do all the planning for you! Iceland with kids can be an incredible experience for the whole family.

HOW TO CHOOSE AN ICELAND FAMILY TOUR

While it’s probably tempting to try out every single option in Iceland, it’s impossible to take in every Icelandic adventure on one trip. Children need breaks and some days are best spent aimlessly wandering about and stopping at cozy local coffee shops and restaurants.

So how do you know if the tour you pick is perfect for you and your little ones?

• Decide how much walking you want to do . If your child is a bit older and keen to be a ctive, give some of the longer tours a shot. However, if you have a stroller, stick to more laid-back tours.
• Think about what your children enjoy . Are they crazy about nature? You might want to take a look at Reykjanes Peninsula tours . If they can’t get enough of animals, they will be amazed by cute puffins and majestic whales, both of which can be seen on the Whales & Puffin tour . Are colorful drawings and lively city streets what excites them? Reykjavík is known for its wall murals and unique architecture, which are brought together with interesting insights by our guides during a Reykjavík city walking tour .
• Consider finances . It’s no secret that our tour price range is quite broad. If you have a bunch of little ones and are trying to budget, take a look at one of the tours that kids up to 6 years old can take for free. On the other hand , more expensive small-group options can offer a more authentic experience for both you and your kids.

No one tour will work for every family. We have a huge range of family tours that include something for every interest and activity level!

POPULAR FAMILY TOUR DESTINATIONS IN ICELAND

Not sure where to start with so many tour options? Here are a few destinations loved by travelers with children:

The Golden Circle

A truly beloved option for travelers of all ages, the Golden Circle combines the best of Iceland into a one-day adventure you will never forget. The bus takes you from destination to destination so there’s no need to worry about the kids getting exhausted. We have several options for Golden Circle tours available, but since you’re planning a trip with children, take a look at Golden Circle Superior. It’s a small group experience, which adds to the convenience, plus you’ll get to stop at Faxi Waterfall and the geothermal town of Hveragerði for an exclusive bonus!

Langjökull Glacier

Some ice cave tours might be an adventure that’s way too intense to embark on with children. That doesn’t mean you cannot satisfy your wanderlust! Langjökull Glacier Ice Cave is an awesome solution if you want to experience the wonders of the icy heart of Iceland together with your whole family.

The ice cave is man-made, meaning it is perfectly safe and easy to explore, and your tour guide will make sure you don’t get lost. You’ll also hear some fascinating facts about glaciers while you’re there. Everyone’s eyes will surely light up when they see how brilliant and blue ice looks from the inside!

Can you say you’ve visited a country if you didn’t explore the ins and outs of the capital city? Reykjavík sightseeing tours are a top hit among families with children of all ages. Communicative and knowledgeable guides, the most prominent locations, and the unique spirit of Reykjavík are bound to make these day tours a family experience you will never forget. The capital also makes for a great base for a huge range of adventure and wildlife tours, so you really can’t go wrong here!

I am trying to book a tour but my credit card payment fails. What should I do?

The first step is to make sure your credit card provider allows you to make payments in Canadian Dollars (CAD) or American Dollars (USD) if you have selected.

In some cases, your credit card company would need to pre-authorize the transaction for you before you can process the transaction online.

If you are still having problems booking through Arctic Adventures website www.adventures.is then please contact our Customer Care Team

Can you take kids to Iceland?

Most definitely. In fact, as one of the safest and least polluted countries in the world, Iceland is one of the most desirable destinations for a family trip.

Is it safe to go on tours in Iceland with small children?

Absolutely! Every tour offered by Arctic Adventures has a minimum age indication. If the tour description states that no minimum age applies, it is perfectly safe to take children of any age on it.

What is the minimum age for family tours?

It all depends on the tour you choose. Most family tours such as sightseeing or Langjökull Glacier Ice Cave tour have no age limit. However, some tours that require quite a bit of hiking or have more demanding activities will have a certain minimum age requirement. This information is presented in the description of every tour.

Can I take toddlers for free on any tour?

Unfortunately not. Tours such as Whale & Puffin Tour or Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik invite adventurers up to 6 years to join for free (with adult supervision of course). Most other tours, however, cannot offer that due to limited space.

What is a good time of the year to visit Iceland with family?

In general, summer might be a more family-friendly season if you’re visiting with little kids. Mild temperatures, open-air attractions and numerous Iceland tours for families will grant you an unforgettable family vacation. However, don’t count out the winter, especially if you’re visiting with teens. The weather will present challenges, but it’s so worth it! Plus, quite a few ice caving and glacier hiking tours are available during the cold winter months.

Share our passion for Iceland, get top travel stories & special offers to your inbox

Change location

• UK / International
• Call toll-free tomorrow from 10am EDT 617-223-4521 617-223-4198 or
• REQUEST A QUOTE

Family vacations in Iceland

By Iceland specialist Cara

Adventures inside glaciers and volcanic caves. Swimming and soaking in geothermally heated pools. Modern museums that let you get hands on with history and science. And, on the darkest nights, the chance to see the northern lights together under a starry sky. I’d say a family trip to Iceland will appeal if you have active children who love the outdoors and like to have experiences that take you beyond the everyday.

There are so many ways to fill your time, no matter when in the year you visit Iceland. And, because it’s a relatively compact country, you’ll get to see many of the country’s highlights even if you only have a few days, whether you’re driving yourselves or exploring with a private driver.

I can also help pick hotels with family-friendly rooms, and the guides we use will introduce you to the landscapes, geology, history, and culture of Iceland in ways that will captivate both the young and not-so-young.

Museums & lava shows in Reykjavík

As capital cities go, Reykjavík  feels safe, friendly, and easy to get around thanks to its compact size. What I think most appeals to families here is the wide range of interactive museums. There’s the Saga Museum, which helps bring the country’s Viking heritage to life, drawing on the eventful tales written centuries ago by early settlers. Waxwork figures recreate scenes from the sagas, or you can do so yourself by dressing up as a Viking.

For something more modern, I suggest Perlan, a museum housed in a glass-domed building with an observation deck for taking in views of the city. Inside, the Wonders of Iceland exhibit encourages you to use your senses to touch, smell, and listen as you walk through an ice labyrinth. Meanwhile, the Forces of Nature exhibit lets you feel the rumble of an earthquake and tells you how volcanic activity continues to shape the country’s landscape and culture.

To explore this even further, you could visit the LAVA Centre  or I could arrange tickets to Lava Show, a live educational performance where you watch molten lava in a safe environment, feeling its heat from your seat.

Geysers, waterfalls & bread-making in the Golden Circle

Easy to explore in a day from Reykjavík, the Golden Circle  is a region with a high concentration of geothermal features and powerful waterfalls. There’s no denying that you’ll encounter plenty of visitors at most of the stops on this scenic route, but I’ll make sure you’re exploring either with a private guide or in a small group to get the most from your experience.

Over the course of a few hours, you’ll see geysers spurt water high into the air, watch bubbling mud puddles and steaming pools, walk between the diverging North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in Þingvellir National Park, and stand dwarfed beside ginormous waterfalls like Gulfoss, whose sheer scale and power left me agape.

Well-maintained paths get you close to these natural wonders, and your guide will help explain their geology in ways that interest all ages. The tour also stops at a geothermal bakery, where you’ll see how traditional Icelandic bread is baked naturally in the ground. Your guide will dig out a pot of bread that’s been cooking in the hot black sand for 24 hours, and you’ll get to taste the finished result.

Horse riding on Vík’s black-sand beach

Stocky, shaggy-furred, and full of character, Icelandic horses have adapted to the country’s cool temperatures and rugged terrain over the centuries. They even have two additional gaits to other horses, the tölt, which helps them move smoothly over uneven ground, and the skeið (flying pace).

Their small stature and easy-going nature makes them ideal for children to ride, and I believe there’s no better setting than the black-sand beaches along the south coast . Experienced guides will match each of you with a horse and show you the techniques you need to ride safely. Then you’ll head out in a small group to Víkurfjara .

This volcanic beach is surrounded by cliffs that plunge into the slate-grey sea, and jagged rock formations are battered by the waves just offshore. If you’re feeling confident, your guide can show you how to try the tölt, and experienced riders might also be able to break into a canter.

Whale watching & puffin spotting

The waters surrounding Iceland are frequented by whales year-round, though some species, like humpbacks, only migrate here during the summer. The best way to see them is on a whale-watching trip from Reykjavík, or, if you’re in the north, Husavík or Akureyri .

The boats we use have indoor seats and bathroom facilities on board, so it’s a comfortable experience for the whole family. Naturalist guides will fill you in on the area’s whales and other marine life, helping to point any out as you go. Keep your eyes peeled for minke whales, orcas, white-beaked dolphins, and porpoises.

If you’re there in summer, migratory humpbacks are joined by migratory puffins that come to nest in burrows along the coast. I spied a few flapping their wings vigorously to keep themselves above the waves, while others waddled comically on the rocks or stood patiently outside their burrows as if taking in the view.

Inside the glaciers & lava caves near Húsafell

If your family love outdoor adventure, I recommend basing yourself in the Húsafell region in West Iceland  for a few nights of your trip. Here, velvety-green countryside is interrupted by glacier-hugged mountains and dormant volcanoes. It’s where you’ll find Langjökull  (‘long glacier’), the second-largest glacier in Iceland — and you can join a tour that takes you right inside this dazzling-white giant.

A sturdy ice-adapted vehicle takes you up onto the glacier. After donning crampons, you’re then led into a network of blue-tinged tunnels carved into the ice. The cool air is perfectly still, and if you listen carefully you might hear the ice creaking around you.

As you wind through the well-lit tunnels, your guide tells you more about Langjökull and its geology. At one point during my tour, we entered a cavernous room lined with pews like a chapel. We all sat down and my guide broke into song to demonstrate the excellent acoustics — as good as any symphony hall I’ve been to.

For another subterranean experience nearby, enter Víðgelmir lava cave. Technically a lava tube, it’s part of the Hallmundarhraun lava field, supposedly created when a volcano beneath Langjökull erupted in the 10th century.

You can hear all about its formation on a tour that takes you deep inside the cave along safe walkways. Strategic lighting illuminates the dark, twisted rock walls, revealing rust-orange and neon-green shades and otherworldly formations that lay hidden for centuries. Your guide will also share local tales that are rooted in the cave, explaining how Iceland’s geology has shaped the country’s folklore.

Meeting rare Icelandic goats in Borgarfjörður

Háafell Goat Farm is a stopping place I suggest if you’re exploring West Iceland, especially if you have younger children. The owners keep Icelandic goats, a breed that’s existed here for centuries, but came to the brink of extinction in the 19th century.

You can visit the farm between June and August to get up close and personal with the goats. They’re used to human interaction and happily skip and play in front of you — you can even pose with them for a family photo.

There’s a small shop selling goat-based products like soap, cheese, and cashmere. And, if you fall in love with the goats, you can adopt one (symbolically, that is), knowing the proceeds will go toward conserving the species.

Seals & strength tests on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Also in the west, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula  is like a microcosm of Iceland due to its patchwork of natural features. There’s Snæfellsjökull National Park, dominated by its namesake volcano and glacier (which you might know from Jules Verne’s Journey to the Centre of the Earth ). Add to that stark lava fields, black-sand beaches, and streaky waterfalls. And, the distinctive Kirkufell peak, which rises like a wizard’s hat and made an appearance in Game of Thrones .

For families, I always suggest spending time on the beaches here. They’re usually quiet, as most visitors to Iceland flock to those on the south. If you head to Ytri Tunga beach, you have a good chance of spying the resident seal colony lazing across the rocks against a backdrop of the dark-blue water. I recommend bringing binoculars or a camera with a decent zoom so you can view them from a distance.

There’s also Djúpalónssandur, a black-pebble beach sitting in an arch-shaped bay. You can learn a little about the fishing history here and all have a go at picking up the four ‘lifting stones’, once used as a strength test for would-be sailors. I even struggled to lift the Amlóði (weakling) stone, which weighs 23 kg (50 lbs). The heaviest, Fullsterkur (full strong), is 154 kg (340 lbs) and only one sailor is said to have ever raised it off the ground.

Geothermal swimming pools at Vök Baths

If your children love being in the water, I’d say Iceland is ideal — wherever you are, you’re unlikely to be far from a thermal pool. Everyone’s heard of the Blue Lagoon , but for a less crowded experience, I suggest heading to one of the country’s lesser-known baths.

Around an hour and a half’s drive from Reykjavík, Secret Lagoon is Iceland’s oldest swimming pool, opening in 1891. Its large expanse of water is surrounded by countryside and has a simple design, so it feels natural. And, children aged 14 and under enter for free.

If you’re venturing further afield to East Iceland, Vök Baths is a popular spot with locals. I love its location — the series of geothermal infinity pools appears to ‘float’ above the water of Urriðavatn lake. In fact, you can plunge into the lake for a refreshing contrast to the bathwater-warm pools.

Northern lights tours from Reykjavík

A winter trip to Iceland usually has one key goal: to witness the northern lights. The phenomenon is never guaranteed, but Iceland’s proximity to the Arctic Circle gives you a good chance if you’re visiting for a few days. You can boost your chances by joining a northern lights tour from Reykjavík . Some hotels, like Hotel Rangá , also offer a wake-up call for if the lights show during the night.

We’ve put together a separate guide to seeing the northern lights in Iceland  to give you more ideas and advice if you’re planning a winter Iceland trip.

Best family-friendly stays in Iceland

Many hotels in Iceland include family-sized rooms or the option to add an extra bed for a child. This is particularly the case in Reykjavík, where I like Centerhotel Miðgarður , if you’re a family of three. Black Pearl Apartments gives you extra space and amenities — the largest suites can accommodate up to six guests and have their own kitchen for the flexibility of eating in.

If you’re exploring more rurally on your trip, stays can be more limited. Hotel Rangá is my go-to for the south coast. It has snug and stylish log cabins, some with an extra ‘wall bed’, an observatory for stargazing and viewing the northern lights, geothermal hot tubs, and a games room.

Toward the west, Hotel Húsafell  is close to Langjökull and Víðgelmir lava cave and has rooms with sofa beds for up to two children. It’s also a good option thanks to its small play area and outdoor pool complete with waterslide.

Getting around with children in Iceland

How you get around in Iceland depends on the time of year. Between May and late September, you can drive yourself around the country in a rental car that’s a suitable size for your family, complete with child seats (though you may prefer to bring your own).

Iceland’s roads are well maintained and clearly signed, and you won’t need to drive long distances to see many of the country’s highlights. Between October and April, we’ll arrange for you to have a private driver who’s used to navigating the wintry conditions.

Alternatively, you could base yourself in Reykjavík for the entire trip and simply head out on guided outings from there. Or, we can arrange for you to get across larger distances via short domestic flights.

The route I recommend for families visiting Iceland  focuses on just three areas: the Húsafell region, including Langjökull, the south coast, and Reykjavík.

Best school vacations to travel to Iceland

Iceland can fit nicely into most school vacations — it all depends on what you want to experience. If you visit during the festive holidays or spring break, you have a chance of seeing the northern lights and can make the most of Reykjavík and the highlights closer to the capital. Meanwhile, summer lends itself to outdoor exploration, wildlife encounters, and scenic drives for exploring further afield.

Start planning your trip to Iceland

Iceland family adventure

8 days from $10,635pp

The Golden Circle & west Iceland

7 days from $4,595pp

Active Iceland self-drive tour: waterfalls, volcanoes & lagoons

8 days from $7,655pp

Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They’re just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Further reading

• More family vacation ideas
• Highlights of Iceland: volcanoes, glaciers, whales and waterfalls
• Seeing the northern lights in Iceland: a Q&A

Plan your trip

Tell us about your plans and one of our specialists will plan a unique trip for you...

Request our brochure, The World Your Way

Order your digital copy via email.

• Work With Me

Iceland With Kids: A Family Travel Guide

Navigate this post:.

If you are considering visiting Iceland with kids but you were like me and thinking, “Where do I even start?” then this post is for you. I am going to outline every single thing you need to know to make an Iceland trip with kids a memorable one. My hope is that this Iceland family travel guide will answer all of your lingering questions. From what to pack to the sites you can’t miss, I hope this post makes planning a whole lot easier.

Things to Know Before Your Trip

What is the best way to navigate a new destination with your kids? BE PREPARED. And this post will help you do just that. There are a couple of ways you can prepare before you even leave for the airport and here is what we suggest.

Download Apps

Before our family trip to Iceland we found a lot of different apps that helped make our trip a lot easier. We outlined all the ones we used below.

Icelandic Coupons – Over 70 coupons at restaurants, bars, cafés, shopping, adventures & entertainment in Iceland

Iceland Guide – Map out your entire trip, Find your nearest fuel station, and calculate from ISK to other currencies

My Aurora Forecast & Alerts – Find the current KP index and how likely you are to see the Northern Lights

Iceland Hot Springs Map – Discover new pools and hot springs. Over 160.

Safe Travel – Iceland – The map displays alert’s from The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration.

Bensin – Icelandic Gasstations – See prices listed and distances to the gas stations with automatic updates

112 – Use to make Emergency calls ( local 911)

Vedur – Weather

Wapp – Hiking/ Walking – Displays varied trails in Iceland by using your phone as a personal travel guide.

8 Day Southern Iceland Itinerary to Help Plan Your Trip!

We put together this 8-Day Southern Iceland itinerary to guide you on a journey along the most lovely and family-friendly stops in Southern Iceland. Get the itinerary here!

Go shopping for snacks

Food in Iceland is known to be very expensive so packing a few things you know your family will like can’t hurt. Pack things like peanut butter, jerky, and protein bars, plus refillable water bottles. If you can’t bring snacks from home, no worries. The Icelandic grocery stores are very easy to navigate. We ended up visiting a grocery store almost every day during our trip. Grocery stores are much more affordable than restaurants in Iceland. 

Icelandic Kronur, or ISK, is Icelandic currency. Most of Iceland uses digital currency, but you may need some krona for some tours throughout Iceland. We suggest converting a few hundred dollars just in case. Don’t come with tons of cash though, you will notice that most places are cashless so just keep cash for tips and tours.

Getting to Iceland

Iceland has one major airport which is about 45 minutes form the main city of Reykjavik. It’s a small airport but it feels new with tons of shops and restaurants. For our flight to Iceland we used Play Airlines. It’s a smaller airline which is known for its budget flights (you know we love a good budget flight). 

What is a budget flight? Well that means you aren’t getting any perks including a drink or snack service. We don’t mind traveling on budget airlines since we bring a lot of our own snacks and drinks anyway. Even though play is a budget carrier the planes are very nice. 

On our flight into Iceland we were so surprised to find a brand new plane which left us feeling super comfortable. Play airlines flys out of New York, Boston, and a few others so if you don’t live in those cities you’ll want to get a repositioning flight there to take advantage of the great deals.

As of March 2023 there were no entry requirements for visiting Iceland. 

Transportation in Iceland

For our family trip to Iceland we knew we wanted to explore more than just the city of Reykjavik. We opted to rent a car and we HIGHLY suggest you do the same. There are many affordable car rental companies in the airport and the check in process is at the airport and was very easy. 

Driving in Iceland is really simple. During our visit in March we were actually surprised with how few cars we saw on the road (outside of the city). 

One piece of advice if you choose to visit Iceland in the winter like we did. The weather in Iceland can change pretty quickly (more on that below) so just make sure you are always checking weather reports as you drive through Iceland. 

Other ways to get around Iceland

If you don’t want to rent a car, your other options would be to take a bus to Reykjavík and have that be your base and take tours to the sites. That’s not a bad option, but you limit your ability to explore that way. The other option is using taxis, which are very expensive, so if you’re traveling on a budget, taxis are not ideal.

Gas is available throughout the island, but there are some areas in the South that there are longer stretches without. The gas was around $4 USD per liter and a full tank on a typical car is about 10,000 ISK, that’s around $74 USD. 

The gas stations require prepayment at the pump or release of the pump by an attendant inside. If you’re using a credit card there is a PIN required at the pump, but you can also pay inside if you go inside before to let them know. 

Also, the gas stations have really good food unlike most in the US. They serve fresh baked goods, hot meals, and even smoothies and healthy options. It’s a great place for kids meals as well, as some give out candy boxes and coloring packets with the meals.

Weather in Iceland

It’s really important to download and use a good weather app regularly. The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, and you might experience all four seasons in one day. For us, it was completely clear one minute, then we went down 10 miles away and we were in a complete snow storm. Keep this in mind if you’re renting a car, you want to make sure you’re prepared. 

March is considered the end of the winter season in Iceland, but it’s still a cold and snowy month. The temperature usually hovers around freezing or just below, and you can expect plenty of snow, especially in the northern part of the country. In fact, March is one of the snowiest months in Iceland, so be prepared for plenty of snow and ice.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Diana ✨ (@mrsblinks)

The Best Time to Visit Iceland with Kids

This is a really hard question to answer because there are pros and cons to visiting Iceland all year round. Here are some of the reasons why we chose to visit in March and we would suggest you do the same.

• March is what they call shoulder season so there aren’t as many tourists.
• Since it isn’t the high season you will find better deals and availability on accommodations and tours.
• March is cold but it is warming up a bit.
• In March, Iceland is finally starting to see longer days.
• One of the main advantages of visiting in March is the chance to see the Northern Lights. March is one of the best months to see this incredible natural phenomenon, as the nights are still long enough and dark enough to give you a good chance of catching a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis.

@mrsblinks It was a risk we werent willing to take ❄️ #icelandwithkids #familytravel #icelandroadtrip ♬ Paper Birds (3 min) – Jordan Halpern Schwartz

Visiting Iceland with kids in the summer

The summer is the most popular time to visit Iceland and for good reason. The weather is beautiful (even though you should still pack your winter jacket) and the Island is lush and green.  This is the busiest time to visit Iceland so be prepared to pay a premium for everything from flights to accommodations and even tours. I would also suggest booking much farther in advance for this reason. 

Even though we loved our trip to Iceland with kids in March we will definitely be planning a trip in the summer for the future. 

What to pack when visiting Iceland with kids

One of the reasons that I credit us enjoying our trip as much as we did is because of how prepared we were, especially when it came to our clothes. Here are some things you MUST pack for your trip to Iceland.

• Snow jackets
• Waterproof boots
• Waterproof gloves

Want the full packing list? Read my post where I share everything you need to pack when visiting Iceland with kids (coming soon) and check our my Amazon shop where I link it all.

Click here to get our full list of what to pack for a trip to Iceland with kids!

Watch my packing video here:

Southern Iceland Road trip

There are so many beautiful things to see in Iceland and one of the easiest ways to see it all is to rent a car and drive it yourself. During our 8 day trip to Iceland we decided we wanted to explore the entire southern coast.  

Instead of basing our stay in the main city of Reykjavik we opted to move around the coast and stay one night in each place so we could make the most of our trip. You can read about our full week-long Itinerary in this post.

Where to Stay in Iceland with Kids

During our Iceland road trip we stayed in some amazing accommodations, moving from small town to small town to see the entire southern coast. Here are some of the areas we stayed in during our Iceland road trip and some of the places we highly recommend. ** the prices listed are based on our trip in March and can be higher in the summer months.

Rey Apartments – Reykjavik $275/ night

We loved this place so much. We stayed here on our way in and out of Iceland, as Reykjavik is not far from the airport and it is a great place to sightsee with the family. The apartments are in an amazing location and besides looking for paid street parking, it is very convenient to walk anywhere in town. The apartments were very spacious and updated, which made for very comfortable stays and great for kids with separate twin beds in every room.

Hellisholar Cottages – Hellisholar $162/ night

We visited here on our way to the East. The drive to the cottages from Reykjavik was absolutely beautiful around the Golden Circle. The cottages themselves were so cute and very spacious for a larger family. There was plenty of space to sleep, and the cottage had a cozy vibe and was very clean. There was a restaurant on property and a small kitchen in the cottage, so if you wanted to eat out or stay in, you had an option. We had a great time here!

Midgard Base Camp – Hvolsvöllur $170/ night 

We stayed here on the way back at the end of our trip. Midgard was by far our favorite place we stayed. The kids absolutely loved the hostel accommodations and shared spaces. We booked out an entire family room with 6 individual beds, each with it’s own privacy curtains and lights, etc. The girls got a kick out of that, as well as having to use the bathroom along with other travelers. The Base Camp had a guest kitchen, their own restaurant, a hot tub, a sauna, a gameroom, study, children’s play room, and lots of space to run around.

Should you stay in a Hostel with your kids?

East of Vik 

Hörgsland cottages – hörgsland $135/night.

We really enjoyed our stay here, the cottage was very cozy and warm. The kitchen facilities were small but adequate and there was plenty of beds for all five of us. The girls especially like the loft room. The staff was very helpful, even bringing us extra sheets in the middle of a snow storm. There’s spectacular scenery all around, with a picturesque mountain backdrop right behind the cottages that is beautiful in the winter with the snow. We were lucky enough to get several feet of snow the first morning after we arrived! Perfect little cottage for families and a great stop on the way to explore the Southern Coast.

Hotel Höfn – Höfn $232/night

Hotel Hofn was in a great location right on the coast with great views of the ocean. The accommodations were very modern and they had a very nice restaurant onsite. Because of our family size, we had to book 2 separate rooms, but it was still very affordable at $232/ night for both. We did not spend much time there, as it was more of a traditional hotel setup. It was still very nice and comfortable with a great design and a great price. We were surprised with how luxurious it felt for such a great deal.

Where to Eat in Iceland

One thing you should know about visiting Iceland is that the food is SO EXPENSIVE. Tipping is not customary, which helps some with the cost, but we also frequently visited grocery stores. If you do decide to venture out to eat here are some of our favorite spots we found along the way.

Where to eat in Reykjavik

101 reykjavik street food.

This restaurant had a fast food feel but you did sit down and order. The fish n chips was amazing and they had a really good lobster bisque! They also had good ramen and other great choices for kids. The pricing was fair and the service was quick! You can find this place right by the rainbow road.

Sandholt Reykjavik

This casual bakery and restaurant had free kids meals and a kids menu with coloring. We loved the waffle, gouda, and fried egg. We also had avocado toast with fried egg and took pastries to go for the car ride. Even with free kids meals, the meal was still expensive, but it was fresh and made from scratch. We had 2 adult meals, 3 free kid meals, 2 coffees, 3 hot chocolates, and 4 pastries for a total of $70 USD. This restaurant has lots of options for takeaway, like sandwiches that looked so good! Overall, we enjoyed this meal. 

Braud + Company 

This was our favorite bakery! They have so many different selections and it’s not overly sweet. But they did always have a line! They are famous for the cinnamon rolls so make sure you get one as you snap a picture of their cool murals outside.

Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur

This restaurant has been open since 1937! They famously had a visit from Bill Clinton and have since names a hot dog with just mustard called, “The Clinton.” Their traditional hot dog has 2 types of onions, ketchup, mustard, and brown sauce. This is a great stop for an inexpensive lunch and to check trying the traditional Icelandic hot dog off your bucket list.

Cafe Babalu

This cafe has very eclectic decor! It’s a fun atmosphere for kids and they have awesome coffee! They’ve got some great takeaway food options as well!

Kronan – Grocery Store

We highly recommend grocery shopping! The grocery stores are very similar to that of the USA, so you won’t feel lost in them. The grocery stores were very helpful since we spent lots of time in the car. We were able to have good snacks and drinks to keep the kids entertained. Keep in mind that they charge for bags, so you might want to bring your own. More on grocery stores below.

Where to Eat in Hofn

Ósinn restaurant at hotel höfn.

This restaurant in the hotel is really nice and they have great seafood options. It may be a little too fancy for kids, unless your kids are older.

Where to eat in Hvolsvöllur

Valhalla restaurant.

Valhalla Restaurant is a viking restaurant and museum. They have amazing BBQ and ax throwing with a really fun atmosphere! Definitely make this one of your stops in the area.

Midgard Restaurant + Bar

You can get a continental breakfast here, and dinner is always very busy so it must be good. They have freshly caught fish, pasture-raised lamb, and homemade from scratch vegan and vegetarian dishes. We didn’t try it during our visit but heard great things from other guests and it smelled amazing!

What to eat in Vik

Skool beans.

This is such a cool place! It’s in a school bus converted into a coffee shop and its up against the mountains, it’s really something to see! They have really good coffee and hot chocolate, a really fun atmosphere, and it’s just perfect for kids and families! They have some really decadent drinks so make sure you come with your sweet tooth.

Gas Stations – N1 or Olis

The gas stations offer fast food and other great take away items. They even have really good kids menus and offer crayons and activity books. Gas stations are also a good place to find souvenirs. Don’t skip the gas stations on your visit, you will be really surprised with what you can find inside.

Grocery Stores

We visited a grocery store almost every day that we were in Iceland. We loved Kronan because it was easy to find (one in almost every city we stayed in) and it was affordable.

Stay tuned for my video on our Iceland grocery store experience.

I found the grocery stores to feel very familiar. Most labels had English on them and the items were very similar to things I would find back home in the states.

Some things you definitely need to pick up for your kids in the grocery stores:

• Skyr: Icelandic yogurt. This was very good and thicker than ours back home.
• Cup of noodles – easy for meals on the go.
• Cup of oatmeal – we couldn’t believe how many healthy packaged meals we could find for our road-trip.
• Shelf stable milk: This doesn’t need to be refrigerated (even though the car is definitely cold enough).
• Collab: This is a drink I really loved. It is made with natural spring water and is flavored with a blend of natural fruit and herb extracts
• Rye bread – Icelandic rye bread is much different than rye bread in the US. It’s not what you would expect!

What to See in Iceland

There is so much to see and do in Iceland that there is no way you can do it all in one trip. Here are some of our favorite things we did and some things we definitely have on our list for next time. 

Do you want to know how we divided up this itinerary into one very full week? Or how we planned our accommodations to match the sightseeing we were doing that day? Or how many sites could we realistically do before our kids got way too tired? Check out our full 8 day itinerary for Iceland with kids.

Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route in Iceland, covering about 300km looping from Reykjavík into central Iceland and back. It’s the perfect way to see some of Iceland’s most spectacular natural wonders including the Gullfoss waterfall, the geothermal area of Haukadalur with its erupting geysers, and Thingvellir National Park. The route is easy to navigate and the whole thing can be done in a day trip from Reykjavík. Ill outline more details about each of the stops below.

I would suggest getting started early to make sure you can get the most of the day and beat the crowds. Here are some sites you can check out on your tour of the Golden Circle.

As much as I loved all the sites on the Golden Circle, it was not my favorite of all the things we saw in Iceland. This might be an unpopular opinion but if you had to skip something I would say skip this part. It is really beautiful but the sites we saw down the coast were some of my favorites.

Book a Tour of the Golden Circle from Reykjavik HERE

Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southwestern Iceland and will likely be your first stop on the Golden Circle tour. You can see several geological wonders there, including the Silfra fissure, which is where you can swim between the tectonic plates. It is one of the world’s best sites for snorkeling and scuba diving. Here are some things you should check out during your visit:

• Walk Between The Tectonic Plates At Almannagja
• Oxarafoss Waterfall
• Thingvellir Church – one of the prettiest churches in Iceland
• Go for A hike – there are a lot of trails even some specifically for horse back riding.

Parking – This park is about 45 minutes from the city and you will have to pay for parking when you arrive. I would suggest downloading the Parka app as it makes the whole process easier. Because the lot is fairly small, you should plan to arrive early to ensure you can find a spot.

Restrooms – The restrooms are located near the parking lot and in several other areas of the park. These facilities were clean, but can sometimes get quite busy in the mornings and peak season.

Food – There is a very small café located closer to the parking lot that offers light refreshments snacks, and hot drinks. We think it’s best to bring all of your own snacks and drinks for this park to make it easier on everyone.

Not Stroller Friendly – Most of the trails in the park are very rugged, so bringing a stroller is not a practical choice.

Child Safety – Be sure to dress everyone in warm, waterproof layers, as it gets very cold there and windy. Also, be prepared for slippery paths if you plan to hike. Make sure everyone stays hydrated by bringing your own refillable bottles when hiking for the day.

Book all of Your National Park Tours HERE

Stokker Geyser 

The Stokker Geyser is one of the largest and most powerful geysers in Europe and erupts every 4-8 minutes, reaching heights of up to 40 meters. The geyser erupts every 7 minutes or so and you will actually find many mini geysers around as well.

When you arrive you will park across the street at the visitors center. Parking is free and the visitors center has everything you might need including a restaurant, restrooms, and a gift shop. The visitors center closes at 5:30pm so if you make a late visit and need the restroom you will be out of luck.

Parking is available in a large lot next to the geyser entrance. The cost for parking is 500 ISK (Icelandic krona) per vehicle, which is approximately $4 USD. The parking lot is very easy to navigate and it is large enough that you shouldn’t have trouble finding a parking spot.

Restrooms are available near the parking lot and they seemed to be well-maintained.

Note: There are NOT any restrooms near the geyser, so plan accordingly before you start your hike.

There is one small café on the property that offers some snacks and beverages. Though the prices are reasonable, the selection is very limited. recommended to bring your own snacks and refillable water bottles.

Limited Stroller Access

The path leading up to the Strokkur Geyser is paved and accessible. It’s important to note that there are uneven surfaces and gravel areas all around the geyser. If you must bring a stroller, be sure to choose one with larger wheels.

Child Safety

The geyser erupts every few minutes or so and it can be quite loud, startling younger children. The area around the geyser can get pretty hot, so please keep an eye on your children and make sure they don’t get too close to the steam or nearby pools of water.

Book Your Tours including the Geyser HERE

Gulfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss , also known as Golden Falls, is a stunningly beautiful waterfall in the southwest region of Iceland. It is part of the powerful Hvítá river, which is fed by Iceland’s second biggest glacier, Langjökull. Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s most popular tourist attractions!

Its a 10 minute drive from the geyser to the waterfall. There is also a restaurant, gift shop, and restrooms and it all closes at 7pm. There is just a short 7 minute walk from the parking lot to the waterfall and you can easily bring a stroller if you dont go to the bottom viewing point which requires stairs.

When you arrive make sure to visit all 3 viewpoints to see the waterfall. My favorite was down the stairs but the other two are pretty as well. In the summer there is a path to get really close but that was closed in March when we visited. When the wind blows over frozen water it’s very cold so be sure to bundle up. This place is absolutely beautiful, do not miss it. 

Here’s some helpful tips for families:

Parking at Gulfoss is free of charge, which is great news when traveling on a budget. However, it gets crowded during peak tourist season, so it’s best to arrive earlier in the day.

There are clean restrooms located near the main parking lot, as well as near the entrance to the waterfall.

There is a cafe at the waterfall that serves hot drinks, sandwiches, and light snacks. The prices are fairly reasonable for Iceland, but you still may want to bring your own snacks and lunch.

Not Stroller Friendly

The paths leading up to Gulfoss are rocky and pretty uneven, which can make pushing a stroller difficult. There are also stairs you must navigate to get a good view of the waterfall.

Be sure your children are wearing good shoes with traction, as there is lots of uneven terrain. Again, the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, so remember to dress in layers and bring rain gear. The rocks near the waterfall can be very slippery and dangerous.

Book all Waterfall Tours HERE

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is a breathtaking destination and such a great place to take the family. There are easy walking trails and amazing views of the entire lake and nearby beaches from some heights.

Parking at Glacier Lake is free in several places right off of the main highway. There are plenty of parking spots available and easy to find additional parking just along the way.

There are restrooms located near the main parking area and at the café right along the lake. The restrooms were clean and were readily available during our time there.

The café near the lake offers a variety of drinks and snacks. The prices are on the high side, but the food is good quality and convenient for families who don’t want to pack a lunch. There are picnic tables available along the lake if you bring your own food.

Stroller Friendly

Glacier Lake is accessible by stroller, but the path can be uneven and rocky in some places. A sturdy all-terrain stroller is recommended or you can rent one at the lake.

The water in the lake is very cold and not safe for swimming, so keeping children away form the edge is highly recommended.

Book Your Glacier Lagoon Tours HERE

Secret Lagoon

The Secret Lagoon is a geothermal pool in Iceland’s Haukadalur Valley, near the Golden Circle. It is one of the oldest swimming pools in Iceland and has been used as a natural hot spring since 1891. What’s really cool is that you can take a dip in the hot water and enjoy the view of the geyser, Strokkur, which erupts every 8-10 minutes at the same time.

The Secret Lagoon has a parking lot available for visitors right in front. The parking fee is included in the price of admission.

The Secret Lagoon has indoor and outdoor restrooms available for all visitors. The restrooms are very clean and well-maintained, very much like those at the Blue Lagoon. Again, there are lockers for storing your clothes and other items.

There’s a small café at the Secret Lagoon that has snacks and drinks available to enjoy inside or out. If you’re planning to spend a full day at the lagoon, we recommend bringing your own food and drinks.

You can certainly bring a stroller to the Secret Lagoon, just keep in mind that it is not fully wheelchair accessible. There are a few steps to climb to get into the lagoon and the paths are unpaved.

The Secret Lagoon is family-friendly and children of all ages are welcome. The water in the lagoon is very warm and even hot in many places, which may be uncomfortable for young children. Children must be supervised at all times, as there are no lifeguards on duty.

Book Your Secret Lagoon Tours HERE

Skogafoss is one of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls and a perfect destination for families. Located on the Skoga River in southern Iceland, this beautiful waterfall is over 60 meters high. There are a few things you should know before taking your trip to this stunning attraction:

Skogafoss has a large parking lot that is free of charge, which you can leave your car all day without a fee.

There are plenty of restrooms near the parking lot and the Skogafoss waterfall, so keep that in mind as you arrive.

There was a food truck near the parking selling hot dogs, sandwiches, and drinks. We opted to bring our own healthier snacks and water bottles to fill up along the way.

It would be very challenging to navigate with a stroller, so you might want to consider using a baby carrier instead.

The path to the waterfall can be slippery and steep, so make sure your children wear comfortable shoes with good traction. Bring rain jackets and layered warm clothing to keep your family dry from the frequent mist and wind. The rocks around the waterfall can be very slippery and dangerous, so be careful.

Fontana Geothermal Baths

Fontana Geothermal Baths is a very popular destination for families visiting Iceland. This natural hot spring is located in the small town of Laugarvatn about an hour from Reykjavik.

Here’s a few things to should know:

Parking at Fontana is free to their guests. There is a large parking lot that can accommodate quote a few vehicles.

There are restrooms located both inside and outside the baths. The indoor restrooms are within the changing and shower facilities. The outdoor restrooms are located near the hot spring and baths. They are both well-maintained and very clean.

Fontana has a café that serves a variety of food like sandwiches, soups, salads, and pastries, as well as hot and cold drinks. Prices are reasonable and the food is very good. You must try the Geothermal Baked Bread, its delicious. You can also tour the Geothermal Bakery and experience the process on the 40 minute tour.

You can definitely bring a stroller to Fontana Geothermal Baths. Just be aware that the paths around the hot spring can be slippery and sometimes difficult to navigate with a stroller. There are some steps leading down to the hot spring, so you may need to carry the stroller down or leave it at the top.

Make sure your children are comfortable in hot water. Some children may find it uncomfortable. There are no lifeguards on duty, so you will need to supervise your children at all times.

Book your Geothermal Baths Tours HERE

Seljlandafoss

It is one of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland because it’s close to the Ring Road and its unique feature of being able to walk behind it. The waterfall drops 197 feet over the cliffs of the former coastline!

There are some essential things you need to know to make the most out of your trip to Seljlandafoss :

There’s a very large parking lot right next to Seljalandsfoss. Parking costs 700 ISK (Icelandic Krona) per car per day. You can use a credit card to make payment at the kiosk or download the parking app.

There are very nice restrooms for visitors closer to the parking lot and concession stands.

There is a small popup cafe offering refreshments and light snacks. While there are a few pastries and hot drinks, it’s better to bring your food and drinks.

Somewhat Stroller Friendly

The paths to the waterfall and surrounding area is mostly paved, so strollers are welcome. Keep in mind that there are a few steps and uneven trails along the way that are not be easy to navigate with a stroller.

The weather in Iceland can be a bit unpredictable, so it’s essential to dress your children in warm and waterproof clothing. There are no safety barriers around the waterfall and some of the other attractions. It is very important to keep a close eye on them at all times and remind them of the dangers.

Diamond Beach

Diamond Beach is located in Iceland’s Vatnajökull National Park and it is one of the most popular attractions. When the glaciers breakup in Glacier Lake, they float from the lake and onto the nearby beach. These glittering chinks of ice that end up all along the beach is why visitors flock to this destination. It really is a site to see!

Before you tale your family to Diamond Beach here’s some important things to consider:

The parking at Diamond Beach is absolutely free and there is a large parking lot nearby. Be aware that the lot can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season. Be sure that you park as far to the left as possible, as that is the area you will want to walk towards. It’s best to arrive early in the day to secure a good spot that is close enough to walk to that area of beach.

There are public restrooms right across the street at the Glacier Lake parking and food trucks. While they are free, they can also be a little dirty when its in high season and very busy. Be sure to bring your own wipes, paper, and sanitizer just in case.

There are no restaurants or vendors at Diamond Beach, so bring your own food and drinks. There are plenty of grocery stores in nearby towns of Höfn or Kirkjubæjarklaustur. These are great places to purchase snacks, sandwiches, and other essentials.

The walk down to Diamond Beach is very uneven and rocky. Bringing a regular stroller is not advised. If you have a wagon or hiking stroller with larger wheels, it’s possible you can make the trek. Otherwise, strap on the carrier and watch your step!

It’s important to know that the beach can be quite crowded, especially during peak season. Also, as I mentioned, the terrain can be challenging for younger children. Most importantly, the water can be extremely cold and dangerous, so it’s very important to keep your children close at all times.

Book Your Beach Tours HERE

Reynisfjara Beach

Reynisfjara Beach is a really fun and beautiful beach to take the entire family. The natural caves and rock formations are a must see on your adventure.

Parking at Reynisfjara Beach is free, but it can be difficult to find a parking spot doe to its popularity. We recommend arriving early in the day, especially if you’re traveling with younger children.

There are restrooms located near the parking lot of Reynisfjara Beach, but they were not the cleanest facilities. We recommend bringing hand sanitizer or wet wipes for your family’s if you must use the facilities.

There are no food vendors available at Reynisfjara Beach, so be sure to pack your own snacks and drinks. There are several small towns nearby where you can find restaurants if that is an option for you.

The beach is made up of black sand and pebbles, which is extremely difficult to navigate with a stroller. The stairs and steep inclines also make it impossible to push a stroller. We highly recommend using a baby carrier or backpack for younger children.

Reynisfjara Beach can be dangerous and proper precautions should be taken. The waves can be strong and unpredictable, so keep your distance and watch the kids. Climbing the rock formations can be fun and great for pictures, but they can also be slippery and very dangerous. Be careful very careful.

@mrsblinks We took our kids to Reynisfjara beach in Iceland ✨ #familytravel #icelandwithkids ♬ Spooky, quiet, scary atmosphere piano songs – Skittlegirl Sound

What to Do in Iceland with Kids

Blue lagoon.

The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa in Southwest Iceland. The lagoon is situated in a lava field and is powered by the nearby geothermal power plant. This spa is very luxurious! Kids are free and we did a spa package with facials, masks and robes. 

• Restrooms available
• Several dining options
• Not recommended for children under 2

Get the full details and helpful tips from our post about Visiting the Blue Lagoon in Iceland with Kids .

Book Your Blue Lagoon Tours HERE

Whale Watching Tour

Going on a whale watching tour in Iceland is a truly unique experience. Seeing whales up close and in their natural habitat is something you’ll never forget. During the tour, you’ll be taken out to sea on a boat with a knowledgeable guide who can point out the different species of whales and tell you interesting facts about them. You’ll have the opportunity to take pictures and videos of the whales and their pods!

Book Your Exciting Whale Watching Tours HERE

Ice Cave Tours

The ice caves are formed by glacial rivers and are carved out of solid ice. It’s really something to see! You’ll be able to explore these incredible structures and experience their remarkable stillness on an ice cave tour. Guides will explain to you the formations and history of the cave, as well as the local environment. Be sure to wear warm clothes and a coat!

Book Your Ice Cave Tours HERE

Swimming Between the Tectonic Plates

Swimming between the tectonic plates of Iceland is an incredible experience! The feeling of the cold water and the power of the natural forces around you is something that will stay with you forever. It’s breathtaking and beautiful! The experience of swimming between two continents is something that few people can say they have done.

Book Your Snorkeling Experiences HERE

Drive the Golden Circle

Driving the Golden Circle in Iceland is an amazing experience! The route takes you through stunning landscapes of waterfalls, mountains, glaciers, and geysers. You’ll get to experience the raw beauty of Icelandic nature, with the chance to explore breathtaking sights like Gullfoss, the Geysir geothermal area, and Thingvellir National Park along the way. The roads are pretty easy to navigate and it’s a really beautiful and relaxing drive.

Book all of Your Golden Circle Tours HERE

@mrsblinks Iceland is so beautiful. Two days in and we are obsessed! familytravel icelandwithkids goldencircle ♬ Pieces (Solo Piano Version) – Danilo Stankovic

Drive the Ring Road

The Ring Road is a national road in Iceland that circles the island, running through nearly all of the inhabited parts of the country. It’s 828 miles long so you won’t be driving the whole road, but it’s a great place to see some sights! The road runs along the coast of Iceland, with the majority of the road being single lane with occasional passing lanes.

Book Your Ring Road Tours HERE

Northern Lights Tour

The Northern Lights Tour in Iceland is a guided tour that takes you out into the countryside at night to view the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. The tour includes transport to the best viewing spots and an experienced guide who will provide insight into the lights, their history and culture.

Book Your Northern Lights Tours HERE

Get Ice Cream (Yes, ice cream in Iceland)

Iceland is known for its delicious ice cream, which is made with natural ingredients and is usually dairy-free. It’s light, creamy, and so refreshing! It is also a good way to cool off in the summer months in Iceland since the Icelandic climate can be quite unpredictable.

Icelandic ice cream is usually made with unique flavors that you won’t find elsewhere, like licorice, black currant, and blueberry. So if you’re looking for a unique, delicious treat, then ice cream in Iceland is definitely worth trying!

Horseback Riding 

When you go horseback riding in Iceland you’ll see some of the most breathtaking views you’ve ever seen! Snow-capped mountains, volcanic craters, and huge fields of lava, just to name a few. Horseback riding is fun itself, but Iceland is known for its peaceful nature, and horseback riding allows you to explore its natural beauty without the hustle and bustle of a city.

Book Your Horseback Riding Tours HERE

Iceland may be most well known primarily for its stunning landscapes, but there are also some beautiful beaches to explore! One of the most popular beaches is Reynisfjara, located on the south coast of Iceland. This black sand beach is known for its basalt columns, caves, and big waves. Other beaches worth seeing in Iceland are Djúpalónssandur, Breiðamerkursandur, and Rauðisandur. All of these beaches have breathtaking views, and the waves make them great for surfing and other water sports.

Bool all of Your Beaches Tours HERE

Iceland is home to some of the world’s most stunning waterfalls. From the powerful Gullfoss to the multi-tiered Skogafoss, the country is filled with awe-inspiring waterfalls that are worth seeing! You can use the Wapp to find great hiking and waterfalls. 

Book all the Waterfall Tours HERE

Iceland is home to a variety of beautiful parks, perfect for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and relaxation. We explored Þingvellir National Park, but there are lots of other parks to see, like Thingvellir National Park, Snæfellsjökull National Park, and Vatnajökull National Park!

Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling to Iceland With Kids

Is iceland good for traveling with kids.

Iceland is a great place to travel with kids! The people are welcoming and there is so much to see and do. Our kids loved traveling in Iceland! Plus since a lot of our activities are outdoors the kids had plenty of chances to run and play.

How long do you spend in Iceland with kids?

We spent 8 days in Iceland with our kids and we found it to be a surprisingly easy trip. We had time to see a lot of sights without getting worn out. 

What is the best age to go to Iceland?

The best age to visit Iceland depends on your interests and travel preferences. Iceland is a destination that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Iceland is a safe and friendly place for families but there are a lot of things that might be difficult for really little ones. I wouldn’t let that discourage you, there is still plenty to do for babies all the way to adults.

Do kids need car seats in Iceland?

We always suggest taking your own carseats when you travel if your kids still use one. You can read all about our travel car seat recommendations in this post.

More Travel Guides and Tips:

Romantic Road with Kids: A Family Travel Guide

How to Plan Your Dream Trip to Europe

Sintra, Portugal With Kids: A Family Travel Guide

Hey, I’m Diana aka

I am a Pinterest mom of 3 who loves to travel. I share my mom hacks, simple ways to make magical memories, and ways you can travel the world with your kids.

With The Blinks Mobile Presets – The Sunkissed Collection

Inspired by those sunny days, use this set of 8 mobile presets to edit your family photos (without compromising skin tones) with just a click!

Related Posts

Amsterdam with Kids: Family Travel Guide

How to Get the Perfect Family Photo While On Vacation

Prague with Kids: Family Travel Guide

browse by category:

Book a flight

Find hotels, discount travel lounges, get travel insurance, earn free travel rewards, rental cars, find family-friendly tours and attractions, bus / train / transfers.

Some of these are affiliate links, which means I may earn commission if you decide to purchase through the link, but at no cost to you. In many cases, the links will also provide a discount and/or special pricing to you as my reader! Please read my full disclosure for more information.

You might love these too!

Berlin With Kids: A Family Travel Guide

The Best of Bangkok Thailand with Kids: Family Travel Guide

Chiang Mai with Kids: Family Travel Guide

Krabi Thailand with Kids: Family Travel Guide

Best of Phuket with Kids: Family Travel Guide

Sri Lanka with Kids: Family Travel Guide

Sign up today to get our popular 22 Adventures Goal Sheet for FREE!

Follow Along

Latest Posts

• photography
• for the kids

Hey, I’m Diana! I am a Pinterest mom of 3 who loves to travel. I share my mom hacks, simple ways to make magical memories, and ways you can travel the world with your kids.

Popular Links

• Work With Us

Copyright © 2023 With the Blinks

All Rights Reserved

privacy policy

site design

Privacy Overview

Sign up today and get our popular  TRAVEL BUDGET GUIDE  for free!

• May 19, 2023
• 11 min read

Iceland With Kids: How To Plan The Ultimate Family Vacation In Iceland

Are you looking for a unique way to bond with your family? Are you done with the same old beach vacation and searching for something more adventurous to bring your family closer together? Look no further than a family vacation in Iceland!

Iceland is fast becoming one of the top destinations for families seeking an unforgettable experience. The country's geothermal hot springs and picturesque views of the northern lights add to its appeal. In this post, we’ll provide all the information on how to plan the ultimate Icelandic adventure for your family.

We'll cover the best time to visit Iceland with kids, which, it's not always summer. Transportation options for getting around Iceland, what to pack for a family vacation in Iceland . And finally, provide a 5-day self-drive Iceland itinerary with kids. So if you're ready for an Iceland family adventure, read on and get ready to plan the adventure of a lifetime!

Is Iceland Child Friendly?

Iceland is very friendly for families and children. Plenty of indoor and outdoor activities include educational trips to the Saga Museum to epic horseback riding experiences. Iceland is also an excellent destination for kids of all ages , as most activities can be tailored to suit their preferences and interests.

Can Kids Travel to Iceland?

Kids can travel to Iceland. However, travelers must be aware of specific regulations for traveling with minors in Iceland . For children under the age of 18 traveling alone or with someone other than a legal guardian, it is required to carry an authorization letter . The letter should be from both parents or legal guardians.

Can Unvaccinated Children Travel to Iceland?

Unvaccinated children can travel to Iceland. Iceland doesn't require any certificates or limitations for entry. Plus, once your family arrives in Iceland, there's no need for testing or quarantine.

Is It Easy To Travel Iceland With Kids?

Iceland, for kids, is an incredibly easy destination to travel to with kids. The roads are well-maintained and easy to navigate for those looking for a self-drive tour . That said, there are plenty of other options for getting around Iceland like:

Renting a campervan

Taking the bus

Or enjoy a guided tour with an experienced local guide

In terms of food, you’ll find that Iceland offers plenty of tasty options for kids. From burgers and hot dogs to seafood, Icelandic cuisine will surely please even the pickiest eaters ! You can also read more about traditional Icelandic cuisine to try something different.

Iceland With a Toddler

Traveling to Iceland with a toddler may sound daunting, but it's possible and not as challenging as you think. Iceland is a safe, clean, and family-friendly destination. The country offers plenty of activities and attractions for all ages, including toddlers.

One of the best ways to explore Iceland with a toddler is by renting a car or a motorhome. It provides a comfortable and familiar space and the freedom to travel at your own pace. Also, many campsites in Iceland offer family-friendly facilities like playgrounds and baby changing stations.

When planning your itinerary, you'll be happy to know that plenty of activities can be enjoyed with your toddler in tow. From exploring natural wonders like geothermal pools and waterfalls to visiting child-friendly museums and attractions , Iceland offers many opportunities for families to make great memories.

Additionally, Iceland's cuisine includes many dishes suitable for children, and one of the most popular is Skyr . This delicious and nutritious dairy product comes in a variety of flavors.

What To Do In Iceland With Kids

Finding things to do in Iceland for families is as easy as 1-2-3! Iceland is bursting with activities that are suitable for the whole family. From museums and Viking sites to hot springs and whale watching, there is an array of activities for the entire family.

Here is a list of some of the best things to do in Iceland that you and your family can enjoy:

Explore the Surrounding Nature on Horseback. You and your family can explore the breathtaking Icelandic nature on horseback . Whether you're an experienced horse rider or a beginner, there is an adventure suited for you. The tours are made even better using Icelandic horses , known for their friendly nature and great balance. Exciting rides range from gentle family trips to more daring adventures!

Discover the Healing Properties of the Blue Lagoon. The Blue Lagoon in Iceland with kids is one of the most popular tourist attractions, and for a good reason. It's a geothermal spa that offers fun activities for the whole family. Kids can splash around in the warm waters and explore the lagoon's natural environment.

Experience the Thrill of Dog Sledding. An experience not to miss, dog sledding in Iceland is a thrilling way to explore the Icelandic countryside. This activity is great for families looking for an extra dose of adventure. Kids and adults will love learning about the fascinating history behind this traditional form of transportation.

Discover the Unique Features of Iceland's Ice Caves. Adventure seekers looking for something unique should explore the ice caves ! These natural wonders are formed by melting glaciers and are an incredible sight for all ages.

Marvel at the Spectacular Elephant Rock. Just east of the Blue Lagoon lies Elephant Rock , a popular destination for families exploring Iceland's natural wonders. The rock formations are spectacular, and kids will love exploring the stunning scenery.

Visit One (or More) of Iceland's 12 Best Museums. Immerse yourself in Icelandic culture with a visit to one of the country's many museums . From the Saga Museum to the Maritime Museum, you can find something exciting and captivating for the entire family.

Discover the Beauty of Camping in Iceland. Camping in Iceland is one of the best ways to explore this incredible country. With many camping spots across the island, you can find a perfect spot for your family.

Enjoy Hiking Through Iceland's Rugged Landscape. Explore Iceland's volcanic landscape by hiking through the island . Plenty of family-friendly trails offer breathtaking views and a great educational experience. You will also encounter many of Iceland's animals along the way, including fluffy Icelandic sheep and wild horses.

What Is the Best Time of Year To Visit Iceland With Kids?/When To Visit Iceland With Kids

The best time to visit Iceland with a toddler or preschooler is early fall and late spring. Temperatures are mild, and there is plenty of daylight for outdoor activities like hiking or horseback riding. Plus, you'll still see the famous Northern Lights this time of year!

Here is a breakdown of what to expect during each season:

Spring (March through June): During these months, the days are longer, and temperatures get warmer. There is still a chance of snow, but this time of year is great for exploring the outdoors with your kids.

Summer (June through September): Iceland in summer is an excellent time for family-friendly activities, even when traveling with a toddler. However, summer is the peak season for tourists, so be prepared for more crowded attractions. On the bright side, you experience Iceland’s midnight sun, where you can enjoy 24 hours of daylight .

Fall (October through November): During this time, temperatures are mild, and the days are shorter. This is an excellent time for outdoor activities, as there is still plenty of light.

Winter (December through February): Winters in Iceland can be cold and dark, but if you’re looking for a unique experience, the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) will be visible in the night sky. It’s also an excellent time for skiing, snowshoeing, and other winter activities.

How to Get Around Iceland With Kids

Believe it or not, Iceland does not offer Uber services . Fortunately, you and your family have several alternative transportation options to explore the country. Here is a comprehensive list of the most popular ways to get around in Iceland:

Renting a car - Public transportation is not as extensive in the country as it is in other places. You'll then need to consider your options when deciding on how to get around. Renting a car in Iceland is a great way to explore, as you can take your time and make stops along the way.

Taking the bus - This is a great way to get around Iceland if you're on a budget. Taking the bus is convenient and cost-effective, but you don’t have as much control over when and where you go, and you'll be limited to larger cities.

Using taxis - Taxis are a viable option if you hurry to get from one place to another and don't want the hassle of finding parking or waiting for a bus. The downside is that they’re more expensive than other transportation options.

Tour companies - This is an excellent option for those who want a more organized experience. They offer different packages tailored to your group's interests and travel plans. The only downside is that they may be slightly more expensive than other options.

Touring by bike - This is an eco-friendly way to get around that also works out your body! Plus, you'll have plenty of time to take in Iceland's breathtaking scenery while pedaling along its gorgeous roads. Remember that cycling long distances in Iceland with a teenager can be tiring, depending on the season and terrain.

Iceland Self-Drive Tours With Kids

Family travel to Iceland with self-drive tours is becoming increasingly popular. Not only do they give you the freedom and flexibility of having your car, but they also make planning your trip easy . Many providers offer day trips and multi-day packages tailored to family travel.

Iceland Family Vacation Packages/Iceland Family Tours

Many family-friendly resorts in Iceland offer tailored Iceland family vacation packages for those who want a stress-free vacation experience. These Iceland family tours include day trips, family activities, meals, accommodation, and transportation. This can be an excellent option for those who want to get the most out of their family vacation in Iceland.

Here's a look at some of the most popular hand-picked packages:

Natural Blue Ice Cave Tour of Vatnajökull Glacier from Jökulsárlón: This is a great way to explore Iceland's incredible ice caves. The family package includes transportation, a guide, and all necessary safety gear.

Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik: If you're visiting Iceland during wintertime, don't miss out on the chance to see the Northern Lights. This family-friendly tour package includes warm clothing, homemade hot chocolate, and snacks.

Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik: Get an up-close and personal look at some of Iceland's most majestic creatures. This package includes professional guides, warm blankets as well as Wi-Fi.

What To Pack for a Family Vacation in Iceland?

Iceland, for a family vacation, can be a fantastic experience, but you'll need to prepare for all kinds of weather . When headed to a new destination, packing can be one of the most difficult parts. That’s why we created an ultimate packing list for road trips in Iceland . But if your flight is leaving soon, and you’re rushing to pack your bags, here are the essential things everyone should pack for family trips to Iceland:

Lightweight and waterproof jackets - The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, so make sure you're prepared for rain and snow.

Comfortable and sturdy shoes - You'll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure your shoes provide good support.

Swimwear and quick-drying towels - Pack swimwear and towels if you plan to dip in one of Iceland's geothermal pools.

Hat, gloves, and other warm clothing - For winter trips, pack extra layers so everyone can stay warm and comfortable.

Sunscreen and sunglasses - Even if it's cloudy, the sun can be strong in Iceland, so protect your skin with sunscreen.

Binoculars - If you want to spot whales and birds, bring a pair of binoculars for the whole family.

5 Day Self Drive Iceland With Kids Itinerary

Planning an Iceland family adventure doesn't have to be complicated. With the right planning and preparation, you can create a fantastic experience that your kids will remember for years. Whether you choose to rent a car, a family camper van in Iceland or hotel accommodations, there's plenty of fun.

To help make your decision easier, here is an example of an excellent 5-day self-drive itinerary that you can use as a starting point for your trip to Iceland. It's also worth reading The Best Tips for Iceland Self-drive Tours if you want to get the most out of your adventure.

Day 1: Explore Reykjavík

Reykjavik route map .

Distance and Travel Time: 29 miles/46 kilometers, 50 minutes

Start your journey in Reykjavík, exploring the city and its attractions like Hallgrímskirkja Church, the Sun Voyager Sculpture, and Harpa Concert Hall . You can also visit the Viking World (one of the best things to do in Iceland with kids) or explore the scenic waterfront.

Where To Stay With Kids:

Eyvindarholt Guesthouse

The Gallery

Mos Apartment

Day 2: Exploring the Blue Lagoon and Beyond

Distance and Travel Time from Reykjavík to Blue Lagoon: 31 miles/50 kilometers, 43 minutes - Blue Lagoon route map .

Head out to the Blue Lagoon, one of the top attractions for kids in Iceland. This geothermal spa offers a fantastic experience with its calming blue waters and lush landscape . After a relaxing soak, head to the Hopsnes Lighthouse for a fantastic view of the surrounding area. Finish your day by hiking to Fagradalsfjall Active Volcano , where you can admire the lava flow and its otherworldly beauty.

Northern Light Inn

Grindavik Guesthouse near Blue Lagoon

Kristinsson Apartments

Day 3: Exploring the Spectacular Thingvellir National Park and Geysir Hot Springs

Distance and Travel Time from Blue Lagoon to Thingvellir: 55 miles/89 kilometers, 1 hour and 15 minutes - Thingvelir & Geysir route map .

Head to Thingvellir National Park , one of the most beautiful areas in Iceland that is perfect for a family outing if you do not know what to do in Iceland with kids. Explore the area and its stunning scenery , and you can even take a boat tour to see the sights or go snorkeling. Head to Geysir Hot Springs in the afternoon to experience nature's hot springs.

Hotel Geysir

Litli Geysir Hotel

South Central Apartments

Day 4: Experiencing the Majestic Waterfalls and a Trip to the South Coast

Distance and Travel Time from Thingvellir to Seljalandsfoss: 74 miles/118 kilometers, 1 hour and 50 minutes - South coast route map .

Start your day off at Gullfoss Waterfall , one of the country's most iconic waterfalls. You can also take a trip to Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, a beautiful cascade of water you can walk behind . Afterward, explore the black sands and secluded coves of the South Coast. End your day with a visit to Reynisfjara Beach , one of the most beautiful beaches in Iceland.

Grand Guesthouse Gardakot

Hotel Katla by Keahotels

Hótel Búrfell

Day 5: Head to the Active Hekla Volcano and Stop in Skógar

Travel Time from Reynisfjara to Hekla: 103 miles/166 kilometers, 2 hours and 20 minutes - Reynisfjara to Hekla route map .

On the last day of your trip, visit the Hekla volcano, one of Iceland's most active volcanoes . Take a guided tour and explore the area, as there are many fascinating sites around it. Afterward, stop in Skógar to visit the natural waterfall Skógafoss and its museum.

Hotel Skógá by EJ Hotels

Welcome Holiday Home

Where to Stay in Iceland With Kids?

When traveling with kids, you'll need to find suitable family-friendly accommodation. Here are some of the most popular spots in Iceland for families:

Family Hotels in Iceland

Sem Apartments : Sem Apartments is a great family-friendly option in the heart of Reykjavík. This hotel has comfortable rooms, a garden, and a terrace for outdoor activities with the kids. The apartments are close to some of the city’s top attractions, such as Hallgrímskirkja Church, Solfar Sun Voyager, and Harpa Concert Hall & Conference Centre.

Reykjavík Treasure B&B : Reykjavík Treasure is a great family BnB in downtown Reykjavík. The property is only a 5-minute walk from the Laugavegur shopping street and is close to some of Reykjavík’s top attractions. Each room has a private bathroom, and the BnB offers free Wi-Fi.

Iceland Family Resorts

Borealis Hotel: Located in South Iceland, Borealis Hotel offers the perfect blend of luxury and family-friendly amenities. From its sophisticated suites to its cozy restaurant, you can experience quality comfort with magnificent views of the surrounding landscape. The hotel is only a 10-minute drive from Thingvellir National Park, making it ideal for those exploring this stunning area.

Hotel Örk: This family-friendly hotel is located in Hveragerdi, 45 km from Reykjavik. Family rooms include a refrigerator, work desk, satellite TV, and a bathroom with a bath and shower. The hotel has an outdoor pool, hot tub, sauna, and a restaurant serving traditional Icelandic cuisine. Hiking trips and horseback riding excursions can be arranged by Hotel Örk staff.

You can also read our Iceland Accommodation Guide for more family-friendly hotels in Iceland.

Unforgettable Family Adventures: Discovering Iceland with Kids

A family vacation in Iceland can be an incredible experience for everyone involved. Plan your journey, and bring the right gear and clothing to stay warm and comfortable. And don't forget to bring those binoculars for spotting whales and birds along the way! With that, you're all set for the best Iceland family adventure. Happy traveling!

Recent Posts

Katla Ice Cave: An Otherworldly Experience in Iceland

What You Need To Know About Exploring the Mariuhellar Lava Cave in Iceland

Almannagjá Gorge: A Geological Divide

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary navigation
• Skip to primary sidebar

Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

Iceland With Kids: Tips For Planning The Ultimate Family Trip

April 24, 2022 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

Are you planning a vacation and wondering what it’s like to travel to Iceland with kids? Well, you are in the right place. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about traveling to Iceland with kids, and help you plan your family trip to Iceland. 

There is no doubt that Iceland is an incredible place to visit . It has beautiful locations, spectacular waterfalls , dramatic views, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences . 

Iceland is also a place shrouded by myth, magic, and majesty that is bound to excite any young adventurer. The landscape is used in countless films and the land has so many tales. It’s this myth and magic that make an Iceland vacation with kids so amazing.

Now taking kids to Iceland takes a lot of planning and there is a lot you will need to consider. How old your children are, how much energy they have, how adventurous they are, how they are with traveling, and what they like doing should all be taken into consideration. 

Certain experiences, of course, do have minimum age limits but on the flip side, many attractions offer free or discounted admission for younger children.  You might be surprised how great Iceland for families really is.

Is Iceland Kid-friendly?

As a travel destination, Iceland is a really family-friendly place to visit if you plan accordingly. The crime rate is low and Iceland has topped the Global Peace Index (GPI) report ten consecutive years in a row. There is a feeling of security and safety here which affords children independence and freedom.  Children in Iceland are treated really well.

Iceland has also consistently rated in the top 5 on the World Happiness Report and anyone who knows anything about Nordic parenting styles will know how much they value children and their contribution.  

As well as a safe and happy place Iceland is also the least polluted country in the world. An Iceland vacation with kids really is special.

The landscapes here are wide open, the roads are great , and the people are friendly. Mix all that with lots of magical history and some incredible animals such as puffins and whales it all makes for a pretty incredible experience. 

And also despite what you may believe there isn’t a lot of walking involved many of the main sights are just a short walk from the main touring roads.  Whether you are visiting Iceland with toddlers or teens you will have a great time. Kids in Iceland are catered for really well.

Getting your kids prepared for Iceland

Now obviously getting your child prepared for Iceland will depend on their age, interests, and sensibilities. With a pre-teen or teenagers, we would definitely recommend getting them involved in planning the itinerary. Also, consider perhaps giving them a budget to plan all the events. 

Speak with your child at all stages of planning. Where you should stay , what you should bring, what clothes you need what you are most excited about. The more involved your children are in this process the better they will enjoy the experience. 

Watch documentaries together on Iceland or youtube videos. Show them pictures and videos from your favorite Iceland creators so they can get a feel for this place. 

So many famous films have used Iceland as a backdrop. Watch some of these with your child, obviously age-appropriate. For example, the horse water scene in Frozen 2 is believed to be inspired by the black sand beach of Reynisfjara . Jökulsárlón glacier lake was featured in two James Bond movies, and Lara Croft, Tomb Raider.

Game Of Thrones also used many Icelandic locations including Lake Mývatn also where scenes from Star Wars: Rogue One were filmed. Svínafellsjökull glacier was featured in Batman Begins. And Marvel Fans will love  Skógafoss waterfall as the setting for the Marvel movie, Thor, The Dark World.

I’m sure you will find something that will captivate your child about this incredible place. Whether you are traveling to Iceland with kids in winter or summer you will always find a part of this country that interests them.

Where To Stay On A Family Trip To Iceland

Now it depends on how big your family is to what might be the best place for you to stay. Most hotels allow a maximum of four people per room. Iceland vacations with kids are always easier we believe when you stay in a vacation rental or a local homestay. 

These places often allow for more people and most importantly will have kitchens so you can prepare your own food. Eating out in Iceland is costly and with children can be even more so. You will want to find somewhere you can prepare your own food. Taking kids to Iceland is much easier when you can cook for yourself.

Inni Boutique Apartments in Hveragerði and The Garage apartments in Varmahlíð are excellent options we have stayed in The Garage apartment many times. For Reykjavik try the Old Charm Reykjavik Apartments .

Consider Less Driving In Iceland With Kids

One thing that may make traveling with children in Iceland easier is to drive less. One mistake families can make is spending too long in the car especially if their children are not good at traveling. 

Driving the whole of the Iceland ring road can be a lot with fractious children. Consider spending your time in only one area like the south coast and seeing everything there. Or book accommodation you can stay in that means you drive less. Staying in Reykjavik and taking day trips out is also a way you can keep the amount of time in the car down to a minimum.

Dining In Iceland With Kids

Taking a family trip to Iceland and dining out is a personal choice and depends a lot on your budget. Don’t forget to check out our Tips For Traveling Iceland On A Budget! However, dining out with kids in Iceland is very expensive. For example, a burger will cost anywhere between $16-$25. 

If that is good with you then knock your socks off the restaurants in Iceland are great. However, for the majority of us spending $156 approx on a meal for a family of four is a little too much. 

What we recommend is getting accommodation with cooking facilities and cooking at the accommodation.  Grocery shopping is relatively easy and much cheaper than eating out. If you travel to Iceland with kids cooking for your family is highly recommended.

Are There Family-Friendly Hikes In Iceland?

I think most of us think when we are traveling to Iceland that it will involve a lot of walking and that simply isn’t true. Going to Iceland with toddlers is extremely possible as often you don’t have to walk very far.

Many of the famous attractions such as Gullfoss , Skogafoss, and the black beaches are off the main road. It is simply a case of a short walk to them. 

A confident walker could easily make the journey. Or consider having a child in a backpack or carrier the short distances makes this very doable on most walks. 

Some of the family-friendly hikes are included further down in this article.  There are also so many things to do in Iceland with kids that don’t involve walking.

Best Things To Do In Iceland With Kids

Visit swimming pools in iceland.

If the weather isn’t great and you want something that will be great for children of all ages why not visit one of the swimming pools in Iceland? Of all the things to do in Iceland with kids, this is by far one of the easiest. They tend to cost around $10 per adult and many have slides, splash pools, and hot tubs. 

Lagafellslaug in Reykjavik has hot tubs and three giant slides for example. Swimming is popular in Iceland and Reykjavik alone has over 18 pools. Laugardalslaug pool is right in the center of Reykjavik and has two outdoor pools and one indoor, seven hot tubs (one filled with saltwater), a sauna, water slides, and a beach volleyball court.

The pools tend to be filled with geothermal water and are less chlorinated than what you may be used to. This means that before entering you are expected to shower fully so take that into account.

Wherever you are in Iceland you are probably close to a swimming pool. This is definitely one of the things to do in Reykjavik with kids.

Go Whale Watching

If your child is an animal lover then Iceland has a lot to offer them And what could be more epic than watching whales in their natural habitat.  

These magnificent creatures are enough to brighten up the day of even the most sullen and apathetic child. 

Most whale watching tours have no age limit if they take place on traditional vessels. There are some more fast-paced tours if you have an older more thrill-seeling teens. However, we feel it’s best to go when your child can really appreciate what they see so maybe 4 upwards is the best age. 

Also, you will be on a boat so make sure your child is OK with that and isn’t the sort to get seasick or the like. Also, make sure you dress your child appropriately as they may get wet. 

If this is your family’s kind of thing then watching the whales that inhabit the Icelandic shores is a real treat. Also, look out for dolphins too. In the summer you may also be lucky to see puffins too but your child will need to be over ten to go on a tour that includes the puffins.  

Iceland tours with kids really are a great way to see more of this incredible country.

Visit The Blue Lagoon

Really wanting to visit The Blue Lagoon on your trip and thinking your child may put a spanner in the works think again. Any child over two can enter The Blue Lagoon and they are free up until 13. Any child under 8 is required to wear floaties. 

The Blue Lagoon is a great and relaxing day out and children of all ages tend to love this place. However, depending on what kind of parent you are it can be a bit of a challenge getting your children to shower naked and get undressed and dressed again. It would be preferable, we feel, to wait until your child can dress themselves easily. 

Also, check with any pre-teens or teens that are comfortable showering naked in the changing room it is a requirement. You will pay extra for towels unless your packages include them.

When the weather is awful you can still visit the lagoon and most prefer this time as it tends to be quieter however we feel for some children this might be a bit too much obviously the waters only keep you so warm and don’t cover the whole of you. You know your child best but we feel if you are going to Iceland with kids in winter and they are really young you might want to give this a miss.

Explore The South Coast 

The south coast of Iceland has a lot to offer and it’s a great place for a road trip if that is what your family enjoys. 

The sights are pretty close together and most of the big attractions are just off the road. Dramatic waterfalls, black beaches, and epic landscapes await you in the south. 

The stops we recommend are Seljalandsfoss , Skogafoss, and the Reynisfjara. These are really easy to get to from the road.  Kvernufoss is also worth a visit but you will need to hike for about 20 minutes. 

Make sure when you get out of the car you have sturdy walking shoes and layers, even if it seems close the terrain changes all the time and it can get very windy. Teenagers and pre-teens will really enjoy these epic locations.

Drive The Golden Circle

One of the best ways to experience most of what Iceland has to offer is to drive the Golden Circle . If you self-drive you are in full control of the pace of your journey and where to visit. Or you can sit back and let someone else do the driving on a sightseeing tour . With children though it feels like self-driving is a much better option. 

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s best sightseeing route and is a 140-mile circular route. Most people feel this is easily manageable in a day but only you know how comfortable your children are getting in and out of the car all day long. 

Sites to see along the way are Thingvellir , Geysier, Gullfoss waterfall , and Hrunalaug Hot Springs . All are pretty epic and awe-inspiring locations, and some of the locations are brimmed with Viking history. 

Of all the Iceland tours with kids, this is probably one that is best to do with teenagers.

Go On A Horseback Riding Tour

Horseback riding in Iceland is definitely one of those bucket list things but it won’t be for every family. Being on horseback you get incredibly close to nature seeing Iceland’s fields, valleys, and forests like never before. 

You know your child and you know how much this will fit with what kind of person they are. If you have a smaller child who just loves horses and has an adventurous spirit then most of the horseriding tours have a minimum age of 5 -7 depending on the tour. 

However, we do feel these are the perfect activity for teenagers and late pre-teens. We feel they will get the most of it. 

Two of the tours, we recommend, are the Fridheimar Farm: Stable Visit and the  Red Lava Horse Riding Tour .

They both are suitable for all levels including beginners and really give you that Viking warrior or goddess vibes. 

Visit Some Fun Museums

When it comes to museums in Iceland there are a lot of options, Whatever your child likes there will probably be a museum that caters to it. 

If your child loves myth and legends The Saga Museum in Reykjavik is a must. To learn more about Iceland the Reykjavik City Museum settlement exhibition all about Vikings is for them.  

For animal lovers, the Whale Museum is the place to go. Here there are features 24 life-sized models of various water creatures. If you are going to Iceland with toddlers they will love this place.

The Perlan is we feel the museum that most children will enjoy particular from 7 upwards. Apart from being Reykjavik’s most striking building, the interactive exhibits are just out of this world. 

Children can feel the force of a volcano, walk through an ice cave and experience the northern lights. These are all great if your child is either too young to visit some of the things. This is definitely one of the things to do in Reykjavik with kids.

Go Searching For Hot Springs

Iceland has a myriad of natural hot springs and pools some like the blue lagoon are luxurious and some are a bit more basic and require a hike. 

There is no age limit on the Fontana Geothermal Baths in Laugarvatn and this and Mývatn Nature Baths in North Iceland allow children under 13 for free.  The Secret Lagoon at Flúðir Village also lets children under 14 in for free. 

On the Golden Circle, you can stop at valley Reykjadalur by Hveragerði and hike up to the natural hot springs or walk to the Seljavallalaug Hot Spring which is about a 20-minute hike, we have written more about this below.  

The hot springs are perfect for children and toddlers to play in and young children tend to love them.

Go On A Family Friendly Hike

Now obviously hiking is not for everyone and while none of these hikes are difficult we recommend that generally, kids over 10 tend to prefer hiking best. Obviously, if your child is small and you are happily carrying them in a hiking backpack then that is great too. 

One thing for sure is that any hike in Iceland will have incredible epic views and whatever you are hiking to will be well worth the journey. 

The Skaftafellsjokull Hike In Iceland gets you up close and personal with a glacier and what could be cooler than that. This hike starts right at the visitors center and is just under 2 ½ miles there and back.  It’s pretty flat so suitable for all levels.

Seljavallalaug Hot Springs is just a 20-minute hike from the parking lot and the hot spring at the end of it is Instagram-worthy. Make sure you bring your towel, and swimming costume. 

The hike isn’t completely flat so we recommend sturdy walking shoes and flip-flops in your bag for the springs. 

For something a little bit longer there is a day hike that takes you to the Laugahraun lava fields and Mount Brennisteinsalda.

 Explore Reykjavik With Kids

Reykjavik is a perfect place for children whatever their age. It’s a compact city so easy to get around and has a lot of children-friendly attractions and locations. It seems to capture the small town harbor vibe with big-city excitement. 

There are so many things to do in Reykjavik with kids so make sure you get a Reykjavik City Card. The card gives you discounts at most major attractions and you will have free access to the Reykjavik Zoo and Family Park, all of Reykjavik’s geothermal pools, and many museums. 

If your children are older a bike tour of the city is really fun. Or get a ticket for the hop-on-hop-off bus which takes you to many of the main sites. 

A lot of the great things to do in Reykjavik are free like exploring downtown, and spending time in one of the parks or the city pond where small children can feed the ducks and swans only in winter and only lettuce, corn, or peas.  

Looking for street art, eating Icelandic hot dogs, getting ice cream, and walking along the waterfront are all great activities in Iceland for families.

 The 3D map in the city hall is also a really great way of getting children involved in the planning of the day. Reykjavík Botanical Gardens is also a great place to let the children run a bit more wild. , And the  Kolaportid Flea Market can be a really fun idea for those children who love a bit of treasure hunting. 

As you can see when it comes to things to do in Iceland with kids there are so many things to choose from. Whether you Iceland with kids in winter or other months you will never run short of family-friendly activities.

Traveling to Iceland with kids is much easier than you think and you might be actually surprised at how easy and effortless it is. Whatever you decide to do we hope your family trip to Iceland is a great adventure and please come back and tell us all about it.

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Plan The Ultimate Iceland Family Holiday: 8 Tips To Help You Travel Better With Kids

Are you planning an Iceland family holiday? I couldn’t be more excited for you! I absolutely LOVE taking my little guy on all of my Iceland adventures.

But despite the fun, traveling to Iceland with kids can be…well, a little tricky.

It’s 100% worth it, believe me – but it definitely takes a little more planning than the average trip!

There’s a lot to consider to make sure your Iceland family vacation goes off without a hitch. 

And that’s where I come in! In this post, I’ve rounded up my best tips for how to make sure traveling to Iceland with kids is nothing but smooth sailing. 

Okay let’s be real… traveling with kids rarely goes *that* perfectly. You’re bound to run into a hiccup or two, but with this Iceland family guide, you’ll be as prepared as you can possibly be!

Plus, you’ll get some places to add to your Iceland itinerary that your little ones are bound to love!

Are you ready to create some family memories that will last a lifetime?

Let’s get into my ultimate guide to planning the best-ever Iceland family vacation!

Tip 1: Lower & Slower

My first tip is to lower your expectations and slow your itinerary. 🐢

I know that it can be very exciting, especially if you’re going to Iceland, thinking about packing your itinerary and seeing all the things, and hitting the ground running. 

But this is going to be really tough to do if you have children. They take longer to adjust to the time zone difference, the daylight hours, and the changes in environment and weather.

Traveling is exhausting for everyone, especially young kids. So creating a slower-paced itinerary will allow you to have a relaxed and flexible trip

Tip 2: Research Kid-Friendly Options In Iceland 

Before you head out on your Iceland family adventure, make sure you research a lot of options for kid-friendly activities. 

Involve your kids in the planning process if they’re old enough. Whether it’s playgrounds, a petting zoo, or a certain tour, they can be part of the fun and anticipate what’s coming up on their adventure.

However, always remember that while it’s good to have a plan, it’s always best to be flexible. When kids get tired or hungry, the last thing that anyone wants to be doing is out on a road trip or stuck in a place that you don’t want to be. So, make sure you have some space in your days for downtime which will allow everyone to be able to rest and recharge!

Make Family Memories Easy

I’ve marked playgrounds, pools, kid-friendly museums, and age limits for tours so that your WHOLE family can enjoy the trip!

Tip 3: Pay Attention To Opening Hours

Another tip is to be aware of the open hours and days. Iceland is notorious for having shorter open hours, and some places are completely closed on certain days. Research this before you travel to make sure you’re well-prepared for each day. The last thing you want is for your kids to get all excited about an attraction – only to find out it’s closed when you wanted to visit!

Also, keep in mind that kids usually get discounted or free admission at places like museums or certain tours, so check for that.

In my Iceland Travel Guides & Maps , I’ve noted all of the opening and closing hours, as well as admission fees for kids and adults! 

Tip 4: Pack Wisely For Your Iceland Family Holiday

When it comes to traveling with kids, packing wisely can be a lifesaver. You’ll want to make sure you have all the essentials on hand, like diapers, wipes, formula, and everything your little ones need.

Don’t stress if you run out, though. You can always stock up on supplies at grocery stores along the way. Oh, and don’t forget to pack clothing that will keep them warm and dry. Iceland can get chilly, so layer up!

If you want to shop my entire packing list for families, you can find out exactly what to pack for Iceland for your kids HERE. 

Another pro tip? Be sure to bring some familiar items from home that can make your kids feel comfortable during the trip. Think about packing their favorite books or toys – these will keep them entertained and give them the comfortable feeling of home while abroad.

And let’s not forget about screen time! It can be a real lifesaver during downtime or those long car rides. Tablets with their favorite games or shows can keep the kiddos engaged and happy.

Oh, and how could I forget about SNACKS?

The last thing you want is a hangry toddler on your hands on an Icelandic road trip (trust me, I’ve been there and it’s NOT pretty 😅). 

Be sure to go grocery shopping and stock up on yummy goodies before any long car rides! 

Tip 5: Consider Safety And Comfort When Traveling To Iceland With Kids

Now, let’s talk about safety and comfort.

When it comes to sleeping arrangements, if you have younger kids, you might want to request a pack-and-play from your accommodation. Hotels in Iceland are usually pretty good about having these, and if you tell them in advance, they can even have it all set up for you when you arrive!

As for transportation, you’ve got a couple of different options. 

You can bring a small travel stroller that folds up, which will be perfect for navigating areas like Reykjavík or Iceland’s smaller towns. But keep in mind that not all locations are stroller-friendly especially the great outdoors.

My personal favorite for traveling around Iceland with kids is a backpack carrier. My little guy LOVES this! It’s such a good way to take the whole family on site-seeing expeditions like hikes, waterfalls, glaciers, and more. 

When it comes to car seats, it’s important to remember that Iceland has different safety standards for car seats than the U.S. So leave yours at home and request one from your rental car company, instead!

Tip 6: Get The Kids Involved In Your Iceland Family Holiday

Let your kids be involved in the planning process, especially for older kids! It might be fun for them to look at the sites that are available and say, “Oh, that waterfall looks cool,” or, “Yes, I want to go on this hike,” or, “Let’s go to this pool”!

That way, they have something to look forward to on their trip rather than just being in the back seat and surprised. Of course, this depends on the age of your kids. 

Remember that the pace of your travel will be different with kids, and it’s okay if you can’t do everything on your bucket list. You might have to slightly adjust your style of travel so that your Iceland family holiday is fun for everyone involved!

Finally, always have a plan B and be prepared for unexpected changes in weather or the kids’ mood. Have backup options like indoor activities or museums. 

Best Activities To Do In Iceland With Kids

I truly believe Iceland is a PREMIERE spot for a family vacation! There’s nothing like seeing the wonder in your child’s eyes as they get to witness this beautiful country for themselves.

If you’re wondering what kind of things might be suitable for your Iceland family adventure, here are a few ideas to get you started.

• Animal-oriented activities: Iceland provides an amazing opportunity for your kiddos to get up close and personal with some of their favorite creatures! From humpback whales to puffins, to seals, your little ones will be delighted to see these exotic animals in their natural environments. You could take a whale-watching tour or even a horseback riding tour for a memorable experience! 
• Nature-oriented activities: Nature is one of life’s best teachers. And what better way to teach your kids about the world around them than by exploring some of Iceland’s best natural wonders? From waterfalls to volcanos to black sand beaches and more, your kids will be fascinated by Iceland’s other-worldly landscapes. 
• Swimming pools & hot springs: What do kids love more than splishing and splashing? The pool culture in Iceland is HUGE – nearly every village in the country has a pool. A lot of them even have things specifically for kids, like water slides, floaties, and kiddie-wading pools. Geothermal hot springs might be another way for the whole fam to relax together! 
• Museums: There are a lot of museums in Iceland. Kid-friendly favorites are Perlan, Whales of Iceland, Árbær, Settlement Center, and the LAVA Center. Note: a lot of museums will have free admission for children!
• Reykjavík with kids: The vibrant capital city of Reykjavík has plenty to offer for families. Take a leisurely stroll along the colorful streets and visit the charming Tjörnin Lake, where your kids can feed the ducks and swans. Explore the city’s numerous parks and playgrounds, or hop on a family-friendly bike tour to see the city’s highlights. And be sure to indulge in Icelandic delicacies like hot dogs or ice cream for a tasty treat! 🌭

And this is just the beginning!

Be sure to check out all of my Travel Guides & Maps which include over 500 pinned locations ready for you to explore on your Iceland family holiday. I’ve specifically marked down the BEST activities for little ones, so the whole family can have a good time.

I can’t wait for you to make family memories that last a lifetime.

Your Iceland family holiday awaits!

Pin it for later! 👇🏾

Similar Posts

How to Save Money on Alcohol in Reykjavik

You know when you get to Iceland and you’re like, “Hey, let’s go to Reykjavik and grab a drink.” But then the drink on the menu is literally like $15?! I’ve seen beers that are priced anywhere from 1000 ISK…

Reykjadalur Hot Springs: The Perfect Day Hike & Hot Spring Experience!

If you’ve never been to Reykjadalur Hot Springs then picture this: Mountains ahead of you, the ocean at your back, streams to the side, and a dip in a hot spring with breathtaking views to top it off. Plus a…

Iceland In September: Everything You Need To Know For The Best Trip Ever

Are you thinking about traveling to Iceland in September? I might be biased, but I truly think September is one of Iceland’s most beautiful months.  This month also holds a special place in my heart – it’s when my husband…

Wi-Fi and Internet in Iceland: 4 ways to stay connected

These days everyone still wants to be connected to wifi, even while they’re traveling. Posting your beautiful photos to Instagram, keeping people updated with your Insta-story…adventurers don’t quit just because they go on vacation! While traveling in Iceland you will…

Explore Iceland in March: Epic Adventures, Festivals, Planning Tips and More

Toying with the thought of a trip to Iceland in March? Prepare yourself for stunning winter landscapes, vibrant festivals, spectacular northern lights, and the jaw-dropping natural attractions that Iceland is famous for. … WITH the bonus of longer daylight hours…

How to Pronounce the Towns in Iceland

Icelandic places discussed in this video: Hveragerði Selfoss Hella Hvolsvöllur Vík Kirkjubæjarklaustur Höfn Djúpivogur Egilsstaðir Seyðisfjörður Mývatn Húsavík Akureyri Siglufjörður Blönduós Borgarnes Stykkishólmur Grundarfjörður Arnarstapi Patreksfjörður Ísafjörður SUBSCRIBE for new Iceland tips every week!

Privacy Overview

• Destinations

Wild Junket

Iceland with Kids: How to Plan Your Iceland Family Vacation

Last Updated on October 23, 2023

Iceland with kids is easy, fun, exciting and oh so rewarding. An Iceland family vacation is a dream come true for active parents who want to add some adventure into their kids’ lives. 

Iceland: a land of fire and ice, brimming with the works of Mother Nature. Its coastlines are fringed with ragged fjords, and its interior is speckled with lava fields and active volcanoes and topped with larger-than-life glaciers.

With a slew of waterfalls and horse-studded meadows, Iceland has a fairy-tale-like setting that is magical for both adults and kids alike. At night, the Northern Lights dance in the skies like a magical show.

We’ve recently returned from a week-long road trip in Iceland with our two-year-old daughter. It was our second trip to Iceland, but our first time traveling there with Kaleya — and needless to say, Kaleya too has fallen in love with this stunning country.

Iceland with Kids

Table of Contents

Why Iceland is Great for Kids

How easy it is to travel iceland with kids, how to get to iceland, take a dip in the geothermal pools.

• Go Whale-Watching 

Try Ice-Climbing on Glaciers 

• See the Northern Lights in Iceland 

Chase the Waterfalls

• Snorkel between Tectonic Plates 
• Go on a Super-Jeep Tour 

Go Horseback Riding 

When to travel iceland with kids, how much time for an iceland family vacation, how to get around iceland with kids, why a camper van is perfect for an iceland family vacation, how to get travel insurance for kids.

• Grimur Hotel 

Hotel Ranga

Read my review of hotel ranga, camping in iceland for kids, what to eat in iceland for kids, safety for kids in iceland, what to pack for iceland with kids, inspired pin it.

Iceland is one of the best places to travel in Europe with kids . There may not be any themed parks or kids-oriented attractions in Iceland, but the whole country is an adventure on its own with its wide-open spaces, wildlife and science projects brought to life.

Kids can hike up glaciers and waterfalls, go horseback riding and whale watching, or take a Super-Jeep to the top of an active volcano— there’s so much to see and explore that I can’t imagine any kid getting bored here!

Besides the vast abundance of nature, Iceland is very child-friendly. Many cottages and farmsteads offer rooms that accommodate families, with play areas or entertainment facilities. Larger hotels often have cots (cribs) and high chair — including Grimur Hote l and  Hotel Ranga   If you’re camping, children aged two to 12 are usually charged half-price. 

The best way to get around Iceland with kids is renting a car or a campervan. Car hire companies like SAD cars have plenty of baby seats that can be hired for just 5 euros a day. Most bus and tour companies offer a 50% reduction for children aged four to 11 years. Many Iceland tours are free for kids under 11, and half-price for those aged 12 to 15.

For younger kids, you’ll find baby supplies like formula milk, diapers or puree food everywhere (but it’s best to buy them at the big supermarket chains as they’re cheaper). There are a few chains on the island: Kronan, Netto and Bónus (which is the cheapest). They are still quite pricey, so if you’ve got space in your luggage, it might be wise to bring some from home.

Families might like to check out the Íslandskort barnanna (Children’s Map of Iceland) for attractions and sights that cater to young kids. Many restaurants in Reykjavík and larger towns offer discounted children’s meals, and most have high chairs. Toilets at museums and other public institutions may have dedicated baby-changing facilities; elsewhere, you’ll have to improvise. 

It is relatively cheap to fly to Iceland these days from the US and other parts of Europe. We flew WOW Air from Spain, and we were definitely impressed by their low fare and high quality service. 

Flights from other parts of Europe to Iceland are of course even cheaper, with airfares from London to Reykjavik starting from $44.99 each way; Barcelona to Reykjavik starting from US$75.99 each way; and Tel Aviv to Reykjavik from $99.99 each way. Our flight from Alicante to Reykjavik only took four hours each way.

Things to Do in Iceland with Kids

With bountiful nature, there is no shortage of things to do on an Iceland family vacation. Ditch the iPads and playstation and prepare your kids for one hell of an adventure!

The biggest hits in Iceland for kids are the open-air geothermal pools (82–109°F) dotted all around the island. Skip Blue Lagoon! It’s over-priced and extremely crowded. Myvatn Nature Bath is a much better option as it’s cheaper and less touristy.

But families will be happy to know that there are plenty of public pools around Iceland that may not be natural but are cheap and kid-oriented. Many of them also have slides and fountains, and shallow pools for the little ones. Children 2 years and above are welcome at these pools, with children under 14 free. 

We went to quite a few and loved ALL of them! Kaleya’s favorite was the pool in Hofn as the water was really warm and they had slides and a baby pool. My favorite was  Sundlaugin á Hofsósi , that had an infinity pool overlooking the fjord. It looked like the Icelandic version of Santorini. Check this website to find all the public swimming pools in Iceland .

Go Whale-Watching  

Both Akureyri and Husavik in northern Iceland offer great whale-watching opportunities; the nutrient-rich water attract plenty of humpback whales especially from June to September. We saw more than 20 humpback whales on our whale watching tour in Akureyri , and they got extremely close.

Our 3-year-old daughter absolutely loved spotting the whales. She was pretty cold but the staff made sure to keep her warm with blankets. They also had life-saving vests for young kids like her. This was definitely the highlight of our Iceland family vacation for her.

Book Your Whale Watching Tour!

This is a dream come true for active parents. We hiked the Sólheimajökull Glacier which included ice-climbing and traversing across the crevasses, and it was extremely fun and definitely adrenaline-pumping. You’ll need to go with a tour operator to climb up glaciers with proper equipment (helmets and crampons), and most tours have a minimum age limit for kids. This would only be suitable for older kids from the age of 9 onwards.

See the Northern Lights in Iceland  

Thanks to its location close to the Arctic Circle, Iceland also happens to be one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. The Aurora Borealis are visible here for over eight months a year, from early September to the end of April.

But seeing Northern Lights in Iceland isn’t as easy as many imagine, because of several factors including weather and solar activity.  I recommend booking a Northern Lights tour as experts know where to find them. Check out this 4-hour small-group Northern Lights tour that departs from Reykjavik. Alternatively, you can also book a private aurora hunt on 4WD Super Jeep .

There’s no shortage of waterfalls in Iceland; they’re all spectacular and have fun trails around them to hike on. It’s easy to walk the trails with even toddlers. You won’t be able to push a stroller on the hiking paths but it’s a good opportunity to encourage your kids to walk more. Kaleya had so much fun jumping from stone to stone or walking up and down the steps. Plus they are all free to visit!

Gulfoss is the biggest and the most impressive — but it can get crowded. Dettifoss is plenty of fun and there are several trails to hike. I also like Skogafoss where Kaleya had a great time climbing all that stairs that lead up to the top.

Snorkel between Tectonic Plates  

In Thingvellir National Park (just an hour from Reykjavik), you can swim in the Silfra rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The visibility of the glacial water is outrageous — I’ve heard that scuba divers can get vertigo when you’re down in the depths as you can get confused where the water surface is.

We did it in summer and definitely felt comfortable in our dry suit. The snorkel tour in Silfra was out of this world and I highly recommend it to ANYONE who loves water. But the minimum age for this is 14 years, so it’s only suitable for teenagers.

Book Your Snorkeling Trip here!

Go on a Super-Jeep Tour  

This can be a super fun trip for an Iceland family vacation, thought it’s more suitable for big boys who love adventure. We did a Super-Jeep tour up the active Eyjafjallajökull Volcano on our first trip and it was beyond cool (even though we were stuck in a snow storm). It’s not suitable for young children, but do check with the Super Jeep tour operator for age limit.

Book Your Super Jeep Tour!

Icelandic horses are seriously gorgeous and unique, and you’ll see plenty of them all over the island. There are plenty of leisure horseback riding tours great for families . Kids will love short horse-riding day trips on the black sand beach or even up multi-day horse-riding tours. This is definitely one of the best things to do on an Iceland family vacation.

Summer (June to August) is the best season to travel Iceland mainly for the weather. In summer, temperatures rise to a balmy 50-60°F (10-15°C) and the midnight sun promises 24 hours of daylight from the beginning of June to end of July. The weather also isn’t as unpredictable as it is in fall and most roads are passable.

I would actually recommend traveling Iceland in fall (September and October) for the lower prices and less crowd. You’ll still find snow and the Northern Lights in Iceland during this time — a winter wonderland reminiscent of your child’s favorite new Disney movie, Frozen.

Winter (November to February) can get extremely cold, but it is also the best time to see the Northern Lights. It is usually fairly easy to spot the Aurora Borealis in Iceland, even in downtown Reykjavik. Temperatures dip to -4°F (-20°C) so be sure to dress appropriately.

I would recommend a minimum of seven days for an Iceland family vacation. There is so much to see in Iceland, from spectacular waterfalls to glaciers, lakes and canyons, that anything less than seven days would be too much of a rush.

We drove the Iceland Ring Road , a 828 miles (1332km) route that circles the entire island. It took us six days (with a day for Reykjavik), as we usually ended our days only at 8-10pm. We didn’t mind though, as we had lazy mornings and late starts. The midnight sun in summer also gave us a lot more daylight hours to drive.

One week was enough to see most of the sights on the Ring Road, but 10 days would be optimum. If you want to do the activities like whale-watching, you’ll need a lot more time (at least two weeks). Most activities take an entire day and need to be booked in advance, especially in summer which is peak season. Refer to my Iceland Ring Road itinerary  for details.

Here’s a general estimate:

• 3 days:    Stay in Reykjavik, and do day tours
• 5-7 days:    Cover one or two areas, but not the whole country
• 7-10 days: Cover the whole country on the Iceland Ring Road
• 2 weeks: Drive the Ring Road + do some activities like ice-climbing or glacier hike

Renting a car is undoubtedly the best way to explore Iceland’s Ring Road . There are bus tours that ply the route, but having your own wheels lets you travel independently, at your own pace. You’ll enjoy the freedom and flexibility of stopping whenever and wherever you want, which is important for those with young kids.

It’s also really easy to drive in Iceland , as roads are clearly marked and sign posts are easy to follow (even though they are in Icelandic). The country is practically designed for road trips: roads are well-paved, and there are regular rest stops and gas stations for refuelling. I recommend getting a local SIM card or using data roaming to have access to GPS and other travel info (like campsite addresses etc). 

Prepare your kids for more than eye-filling scenics. You’ll be in the car a lot — so stock up on some snacks, and prepare a music playlist or Icelandic audio books to help while away the hours and give your passengers an earful of Norse sagas and eerie folktales.

We rented a camper van from SADcars and it was perfect for any Iceland family vacation. Having a camper van allowed us to explore the back roads and sleep in spectacular settings. It saved us loads of money on accommodation and restaurant meals. I loved how self-sustaining we were with the camper van as we had everything we needed.

Our camper van was a brand new, 2016 model Dacia Dokker with custom built interiors. The van was small yet comfortable, and easy to drive around. The size was perfect for us (but might be too small for those with bigger kids) — you really don’t want to be driving big and bulky motor homes on the narrow mountain roads in Iceland. We found it perfect for navigating the Iceland Ring Road .

Despite its small size, our camper was equipped with all we needed, including a mattress (that doubled as a seating area and a bed), a portable gas stove, dishes, cutlery, pot, pan and water container. The camper also had stand alone heaters which are connected to the diesel fuel tank. 

All of the above were included in the price of the rental, which was 95 euros/night. The only additional cost was hiring a car seat for Kaleya, which was only 5 euros a day; and bedding for 75 euros (We could have also brought our own sleeping bags to avoid that cost.).

In Iceland, all car rentals include the obligatory Third Party Liability Insurance (TPL) under Icelandic law – this covers third party damage or loss in an accident.  I highly recommend getting travel insurance as well as it covers personal loss, theft, and medical on top of damages that may incur on your camper van or vehicle in Iceland. These days, it’s particularly important to have travel insurance that covers COVID-19.

Safety Wing  is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their  Nomad Insurance plan , which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date. Refer to my  travel insurance guide  for more details.

Where to Stay in Iceland with Kids

We stayed at a series of cottages on our first trip and loved being able to stay in the countryside without spending too much. Families can enjoy the space and facilities in cottages and it can be a great way to stay in a beautiful house for the same price as a hotel room. These days it’s very easy to book cottages in Iceland online.

On this trip, we slept in our camper van most of the time, but also stayed at two hotels (one at the start of the road trip and another at the end):

Grimur Hotel  

Grimur Hotel is a brand new modern Scandinavian style hotel in the suburbs of Reykjavik and just a 10-min bus ride to the center, with spacious rooms that are great for families. I like their location which is not right in the city centre but close enough.

Located near the Golden Circle is a gorgeous lodge set that runs alongside the Ranga River. This landmark hotel has unique around-the-world themed suites and traditional Arctic flair, featuring a polar bear statue at the entrance and reindeer horns on their chandeliers. It’s our favorite hotel in Iceland and we stay here every time we travel Iceland.

For those on a budget, camping or staying in a camper van can be a great way to save money, have some flexibility, and sleep in spectacular settings. Since November 2015, it has been illegal to camp anywhere other than at a proper campsite.

Parking at these campsites usually costs 2000 -3500 ISK ($20 – 35) per vehicle per night. The campsites in Iceland tend to be well equipped with 24-hour WC and showers, electrical outlets, free WiFi, nice dining and cooking areas and even BBQ spots. For more information on where to camp, read these guidelines from the Icelandic authorities .

Food is expensive in Iceland : even at a gas station cafe, a burger costs around $10 and a soup is around the same price. If you’re looking for a proper fish or lamb meal in a nice restaurant, expect to fork out at least $30 for each dish. A cup of coffee usually costs at least $5 and a hot dog would be around $5 as well.

I recommend cooking on your own and buying groceries in the supermarket chains I mentioned earlier. It’s best to stock up in Reykjavik before leaving on your road trip. Once you leave southern Iceland, it might be hard to find big supermarket chains until you reach Egilsstaðir in the east. There will be small grocery stores and mini-marts around, but their prices are usually higher.

Safety is always an issue when traveling with kids or toddlers, but Iceland is extremely safe and clean. Tap water, local foods and environment present no health hazard and you can take in the beautiful landscape without worrying too much about the little ones. Some waterfalls or trails might not have fences or railings to keep your kids off danger zones, so keep an eye on them.

Remember to respect the Icelandic nature and its mood swings. This means no hikes in bad weather, no driving outside the roads and keep in mind that ocean and river currents can be strong and treacherous.

Keep off the F Roads and make sure you only traverse roads that your vehicle is capable of managing (no off-road driving if you don’t have a 4WD). Icelandic roads tend to be narrow and windy and for those of you not used to gravel roads keep in mind that soft moves is the key here.

I’m a firm believer of less is more. The less you carry, the easier it is to move around. Besides you’ll be able to get most things in Iceland. 

On our 7-day Iceland family vacation, we used the following suitcases and backpacks. Check out my detailed Iceland packing list .

• Eagle Creek Gear Warrior 32  
• Deuter child hiking carrier
• Kaleya’s Pockit lightweight stroller   
• Lowepro Photo Sport 300 AW camera pack

Thankfully they all fit into the back seat of our small Dacia Dokka camper van. Space was pretty tight though and we had to move our gear around to set up the bed every night, but we got the hang of it pretty quickly.

Practical Tips for Traveling Iceland with Kids

• Be warned that weather can change quickly in Iceland, regardless of when you visit. A sunny morning can easily turn into a whiteout blizzard. You can easily experience four seasons in one day.
• Road closures are common in winter and it can be dangerous to drive during harsh weather conditions. Check the website vegagerdin.is or download its app for real-time road conditions.
• Note that off-road driving is strictly forbidden in Iceland. If the road does not have a number, do not drive on it even if there are tire tracks. It will damage nature for decades and you’ll get a serious fine. For those interested in learning more, check out www.drive.is .
• Stock up on snacks and prepare lots of music and entertainment for the kids. You can usually find facilities dotted all along the Iceland Ring Road , but kids who are toilet-trained may have to do some of their business behind trees (if you can find any). 

It’s absolutely easy to travel Iceland with kids, and I can’t think of a better place to introduce some adventure to your kids’ lives. For the active parents who want to show their kids how to be adventurous, you will be definitely love Iceland.

Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 150 countries across 7 continents. She is a book author and Lonely Planet guidebook writer. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Follow her travels on her Facebook and Instagram .

Leave a Comment Cancel Comment

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

The Comments

Informative and useful blog. Need to do more packing because I am going to Iceland with my kids…really excited … thanks for this post.

Jacqueline Renee LeCuyer

We actually drove around Iceland for 2 weeks this past September with our 14 month old daughter. We rented a small motor home and drove the Ring Road, Westfjords, Eastfjords, and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. The motor home was perfect for our daughter who still sleeps in a crib. We put her pack n play where the table goes. We didn’t find the small motor home too cumbersome on Iceland’s narrow roads! It’s a great option for families with crib sleeping babies!

You did Ice Climbing on Glaciers with your 3 year old kid? Because even I’m going this October with my 3 year old kid, not sure what all activities we can do with my kid.

Nope, there is an age limit for ice climbing. It’s around 8 years old I think. We didn’t sign up for any extra activities when we traveled with our kid this time. But we visited all the sights I mentioned above, went hiking up and down the steps surrounding the falls, and it was terrific! Iceland is an exceptional place for kids. They get to run around the greenery and immerse in nature.

You May Also Like

Snorkeling silfra iceland: between tectonic plates, italian food guide: best dishes to try in italy, slovenia road trip: a 10-day slovenia itinerary.

5 things that surprised me during our family's Iceland vacation

As the pandemic stretched on, our entire family began feeling the itch to get back to the exciting trips we used to enjoy in the "before times." The summer of 2022 was poised to be that moment.

With a healthy stash of points and miles at the ready , we told both of our kids that they could pick any place in the world and we would do everything in our power to plan an incredible trip there.

Our daughter didn't need any time to think. Her instant reply: Iceland .

Anyone who has visited Iceland or seen pictures of the country's natural beauty would be hard-pressed to disagree, as the European destination is home to all kinds of otherworldly sights, including stunning black sand beaches , soothing geothermal spas and the mesmerizing northern lights . It's no wonder our daughter has had dreams of visiting the Land of Fire and Ice for years.

So, before long, we found ourselves planning a 10-day adventure to Iceland.

While we went into our Iceland trip feeling like we had learned enough from folks who had been there before to be adequately prepared, we were shocked by a number of things we encountered once we arrived. Here are a few surprises we took away from our time in Iceland.

Sign up for our daily newsletter for more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox.

Budget-conscious travelers may struggle to find affordable options

Most people planning a trip to Iceland expect to pay inflated prices for food. We expected this as well, though the prices were still a touch more painful than we were anticipating. Thankfully, our kids eat a lot of fresh fruit and vegetables, but those came at a high cost.

An apple or an orange at local grocery stores was double the price we would normally pay for one in the U.S. Items like grapes and fresh berries were even more expensive.

However, we discovered one way you can trim costs on everyday essentials like snacks and bottled water: Costco. If you have a Costco membership, you can stock up at the Reykjavik location without spending a fortune. We grabbed bottled water, fruit and granola bars to take with us on the road as we explored more remote parts of the country.

For meals at sit-down restaurants, prepare for sticker shock. Even grabbing breakfast at a simple American- and British-themed diner we found in Hofn set us back almost $100 for our family of four.

Once you get past breakfast, all bets are off, so budget accordingly.

Related: How to get to Iceland using points and miles

The midnight sun is great for sightseeing but will mess with your kiddos

If you travel to Iceland in summer, you'll get to experience almost 24 hours of sunshine.

Absent a couple of hours of twilight in the wee hours of the morning, the sun really doesn't set over Iceland during the warmer months. We were initially worried that our hotel rooms wouldn't have good enough shades or curtains to block out the sun, so we made sure to pack eye masks.

Our fears proved unfounded, as most Icelandic hotels have great solutions for dampening the midnight sun, but the perpetual daylight ended up causing another issue.

Because it was light out for so long, our kids never really wanted to stop exploring. Around every corner was another incredible sight to see.

While we didn't mind stretching our sightseeing time at the start of our vacation and eating dinner around 9 p.m. GMT — which was close to the same time we'd eat back at our Virginia home — by the end of our vacation, it was starting to wear on us. Had we been staying much longer, the midnight bedtimes would've undoubtedly hit our kids hard.

Related: 9 reasons you should visit Iceland this summer

Family lodging options are tough to find

Our family of four doesn't sleep in one room and share one bathroom when we're at home, so we naturally look for a little extra space when selecting hotel rooms for our vacations.

In Reykjavik, we were able to find connecting rooms at major chain hotels. However, places outside of Reykjavik were another story.

Chain hotels beyond Reykjavik are hard to come by. Instead, you'll often find smaller accommodation options similar in size to a bed-and-breakfast or a quaint inn. Within those properties, layout choices are generally more limited, so we found ourselves with no option but to sleep in four twin beds in order to keep our family together.

If you're hoping to snag a connecting room, good luck. These are few and far between, so they often cost quite a bit to book. You'll want to put in some time to find what you're looking for if you have particular bedding or lodging options in mind.

Related: One of my favorite hotels in Europe: A review of the Mr. & Mrs. Smith Kvosin Hotel in Reykjavik

It's not as crowded as you might think

Even with the country's popularity, we rarely found ourselves feeling like it was overrun by tourists.

Sure, there are tour buses that overwhelm some of the most popular destinations from time to time, but we rarely encountered these during our trip. Maybe this was because of the plethora of areas to explore, making it easy to avoid crowds.

While we did see tons of tour buses as we explored well-known spots like the Ring Road, we found it easy to escape the hordes of tourists by venturing just beyond the busy areas. For example, we found that the best place to see puffins was not the main spot tourists frequent, but rather lesser-known Borgarfjörður eystri, a fjord near Bakkagerði on the east coast.

Related: Volcanic activity in Iceland: 6 things you should know before getting too close

Driving can be expensive — if you don't pay careful attention to local rules

Apparently, I didn't do enough research about driving around Iceland, as I was hit with a number of fines from our trip.

I naively thought that the innocent-looking blue signs with an old-fashioned camera pictured indicated places where you could take roadside photos of landmarks. I discovered a bit too late that these signs actually signaled the presence of speed cameras.

Shortly after we returned home from our trip, I received an updated invoice for our rental car from Hertz showing a 4,000 Icelandic krona (about $28) charge labeled "ADM SPEED." About two weeks later, I was sent an email with a grainy picture of our car and a demand for more than 50,000 Icelandic krona (or roughly $354). (I was offered a decent discount if I paid within 14 days).

Once I realized that the speeding ticket was legitimate, I inquired about options for reducing the charge. While I could be eligible for a discount if I paid within 14 days of receiving the ticket, I was told there was no negotiating the fine, so I accepted my fate. Because there was no way to pay online, I had to wire money to settle the ticket.

The speeding ticket was a tough hit to take given we'd also received a ticket for inadvertently parking in a no-parking zone while stopping for lunch in Akureyri one day. Normally, you'd need to pay parking tickets in person at a local courthouse, but fortunately, our use of a rental car meant we'd pay it through Hertz.

Between the parking ticket, which was nearly double the $20 ticket charge due to an administrative fee from Hertz, and the speeding ticket and associated Hertz fee for it, we ended up spending an extra $420-plus driving around the country.

Related: Iceland trip-planning from A to Z: Glaciers, geothermal spas and lava caves

Bottom line

There was plenty for us to learn in Iceland, with some surprises that were more financially painful than others.

We came away with the impression of a country that cares deeply about the natural beauty found around every turn. Surprisingly, some of our best memories were of places we didn't even discover in our research prior to arriving in Iceland.

Regardless of what you decide to see and do, one thing is clear: It's really hard to have a bad time in Iceland. There's just so much to experience and marvel at.

Although you'll come across some unexpected quirks when you visit, they do little to diminish the appeal of the beautiful country. As long as you do your research, adjust your expectations and arrive prepared with some additional cash, odds are you'll love checking out this bucket list-worthy destination.

How to do a family trip to Iceland on a budget

Posted on Last updated: 29 January 2024

Iceland is known for its breath-taking beauty but also its extortionate prices, especially in Reykjavik . Despite a tourism boom in recent years, there are actually signs that this growth has eased off significantly , partly due to the rise in the value of the Icelandic krona. And if you’re planning a family trip to Iceland, cost is always a massive factor when deciding on a destination.

Disclaimer: This is a collaborative post with information drawn from different travel bloggers. Furthermore, this post contains affiliate links. Should you click on a link to purchase, it is at no extra cost to you, but I get a small commission that goes towards the running of this blog. 

However, cheap flights with EasyJet are still tempting UK families, and after our 5 day Iceland road trip , we realised that it is still possible to keep to budget on a Iceland family trip. After all, so much of the natural wonder of Iceland is free to explore! So much so, we returned exactly a year later to do a North Iceland itinerary .

Read: Tips for family travel on a budget

Where would we be without our Lonely Planet Guide ? There’s also a specific Iceland Road Trip edition .

• Thiruvengadam, Meena (Author)
• English (Publication Language)
• 352 Pages – 03/15/2024 (Publication Date) – Lonely Planet (Publisher)

• Averbuck, Alexis (Author)
• 128 Pages – 04/15/2022 (Publication Date) – Lonely Planet (Publisher)

We also recommend you purchase a good Iceland road map ( click here ), in case your tablet or Google Maps fails.

• Marco Polo (Author)
• 1 Page – 03/25/2020 (Publication Date) – MAIRDUMONT GmbH & Co. KG (Publisher)

TIME YOUR VISIT RIGHT

Go out of season.

If you visit Iceland outside of the main tourist season, then you’ll be able to get more value for money on your trip. Flights and accommodation can be substantially more expensive over busy periods, such as summer and Christmas, so if you avoid these times it can save you a fair amount of cash! There are plenty of  must see sights in Iceland , which can be visited no matter what time of year you visit! If you’re looking to save money, the cheapest months to visit Iceland tend to be May and September.

(Sam and Natalia, Something of Freedom – follow on Instagram )

Travel before your kids are 7

Families with young children never pay full price admission fees for their kids. We didn’t find any admission fees charged for kids under age 7. Fees for special tours and attractions such as the Blue Lagoon, the Lava Tunnel and Hallgrimskirkja observation deck are charged only for visitors over age 13. Fees charged for children aged 7-13 at tours, museums, public pools or buffets are usually half price of less the adult fees.

(Catherine, We Go With Kids  – follow on Instagram )

BE CLEVER WITH FOOD & DRINK

Bring food from home.

We booked a hotel that had some kitchen facilities and took some food from home! This meant we were only buying the perishables in Icelandic supermarkets and limiting our food costs. We planned meals and lunches before we went and this way we kept our costs down.

(Leona, Wandermust Family  – follow on Instagram )

Shop at Bonus

If you’re self-catering and need to buy food in Iceland, you’ve got to be careful where you you go, as you can be caught out by high prices in many grocery shops too.   Bonus is a large supermarket chain that sells pretty much everything you’ll need.  There are stores all over Iceland and they have generally the best prices. You won’t miss a Bonus shop – just look out for the huge pink pig logo.

You’ll have to factor shopping into your daily schedule though, as Bonus stores don’t open until 10am or later and usually close by 6.30pm.  Don’t get so distracted by Iceland’s beauty that you forget to shop!

(Emily, Kids and Compass  – follow on Instagram )

Avoid convenience stores

On our first night in Reykjavik we got in late, we were tired and hungry so we headed to the first shop we could find, a little convenience store just up from our apartment to pick up a few things to get us through till we could find a supermarket. This would turn out to be a huge lesson for us and the prices of food in Iceland! It was crazy expensive ($6.00 Australian dollars for a small bag or Doritos and $7.50 for a 1.25L bottle of Pepsi!) We thought it was expensive until we found a scanner in the local Bonus supermarket and realised just how much we paid! So our best tip is AVOID THE CONVENIENCE STORE!

(Bec, Wyld Family Travel  – follow on Instagram )

Bring your own grocery bags

Grocery stores in Iceland charge for bags and since the country is already so expensive, this is an additional expense you may not expect. If you are from Europe, this may sound normal to you, but in other parts of the world including much of North America, this is not standard practice. Buy a cheap cloth bag back home and roll it up and pack it in your suitcase. They will help you save the earth and save a little money during your time in Iceland!

(Victoria, Iceland Trippers  – follow on Instagram )

If you do eat out, get take out

Most restaurants have a take-out menu with significantly lower prices than their dine-in equivalents, and visitors can avoid the hefty service charges by ordering takeaway. During our family’s 10-day Ring Road trip, we enjoyed take out pizza, fish and chips and hot dogs without paying the break the bank dine-in cost.

(Catherine, We Go With Kids – follow on Instagram )

Drink tap water

A great way to keep your  trip costs down in Iceland  and help the environment at the same time is to bring a reusable water bottle with you and drink the tap water! The tap water in Iceland is safe to drink and as a lot of the water source comes directly from natural springs it is also incredibly delicious. Given Iceland is notoriously expensive, not buying bottled water is a great way to save money while visiting this beautiful country!

(Michael, The World Was Here First – follow on Facebook )

Buy duty-free

You can save a lot of money on alcohol in Iceland by buying it at the duty-free shop at Keflavik airport. Customs limits the amount of alcohol you can bring into Iceland to 1 liter of spirits plus 1 liter of wine OR 1 liter of sprits/wine plus 6 liters of beer OR 2.25 liters of wine. That’s for adults 20 years or older. Since taxes on alcohol in Iceland are high, expect to save around 700 ISK on 6 packs of beer and over 5000 ISK on bottles of liquor. Cheers to cheap alcohol in Iceland!

(Bertaut & Alexis, World Travel Adventurers  – follow on Instagram )

SELECT ACCOMMODATION CAREFULLY

Stay in air bnbs.

When I looked at hotel prices in Iceland I was in shock so I investigated Airbnbs more thoroughly. I found not only could I get them much cheaper than hotel rooms (especially if you would need two rooms) but in many cases they were really special places. Once we stayed in a quaint cottage with a grass roof, and another time in a very fancy designer-home on a lake. My very favourite was a cabin at the foot of Mt Kirkjufell in the west of Iceland, one of the most beautiful spots of all. Airbnbs in Iceland are not only a great budget saver but a way to really see places you otherwise wouldn’t.

(Amanda, Not A Ballerina  – follow on Facebook )

Rent a campervan

For those outdoorsy types, bundle your vehicle, lodging and meals into one economical package by renting a campervan! Not only will you save money, but this allows for opportunities to experience Icelandic life and culture more intimately by shopping for groceries at the supermarket and swimming at local public pools. Furthermore, campgrounds are in gorgeous locales, and you can wake to remarkable beauty right outside your van doors ( no cost for kids at campgrounds )! And if all the stars align, your family just may grow closer together, with a trip to last a lifetime in the memory banks!

(Valerie, Wanderlust Wookies – follow on Instagram )

We’d love to travel Iceland in our Mazda Bongo !

Stay in YHAs

We booked to go to Iceland just before we got married so wanted to do the trip as cheaply as possibly. We joined the youth hostel association and booked into youth hostels all the way round the island. All the rooms were doubles rather than dorms and many were en suite. We saw loads of mainly Japanese families using the youth hostels and cooking for themselves to save money. There was only one youth hostel we decided we couldn’t stay in, and we should have trusted the reviews. Definitely a great way of doing Iceland more cost effectively.

(Karen, Mini Travellers  – follow on Instagram )

CONSIDER HOW YOU’RE GOING TO GET AROUND

Self-drive rather than paid excursions.

At first glance hiring a car in Iceland may seem expensive but when you compare it to booking a place on a few paid excursions it really is the better option. You can keep the cost of car hire down by shopping around and checking out reviews. A few car hire companies are based at the old army base, which makes them cheaper again. Remember Iceland is a small country and nothing is very far away so it really won’t inconvenience you at all.

If you are feeling nervous about driving in Iceland my advice to you is don’t! It’s really straightforward and there really aren’t many cars on the road. Your biggest challenge will be the weather, but as long as you are cautious you will be fine. I navigated heavy snow drifts during my trip to Iceland and honestly it was fine.

With a hire car you will also cover a lot more ground and see more sights than taking paid excursions which makes it better value for money again. You are not at the mercy of timed stops or waiting for 60 people to get on and off a coach at every stop.

(Zena, Zena’s Suitcase  – follow on Instagram )

Download maps.me to your phone

Hiring a car abroad anywhere gets expensive once you start adding on things like insurance and GPS. But in Iceland, where your purse strings will be really stretched, it’s important to make savings wherever you can. Starting with your car hire. I suggest you decline the fancy GPS at a mouth-watering €13/day and instead download the free phone app  maps.me . If you download the Iceland map, you will have GPS directions on your phone available to you without any internet connection. I bring a phone holder which clips into the air event and voila, GPS for free! On a weeks road trip in Iceland, this will save you €91!

(Leanne, The Globetrotter GP – follow on Facebook )

Check car insurance and credit card insurance company to see if you’re covered on rentals

When renting a car in Iceland, it is advised to take full car rental insurance including the ash and stone coverage. This can actually close to double the cost of the car! It pays to call your insurance company or credit card first to see if they offer any insurance on car rentals so that you can waive purchasing the insurance on-site. It is surprising how expensive it is to rent a car in Iceland.

(Tamara, We 3 Travel  – follow on Instagram )

BE SELECTIVE WITH YOUR ACTIVITIES

Find free activities.

Iceland can be hard on your wallet, but one of the most wonderful aspects about travelling in Iceland is that the outdoor activities are endless and free. If you are on a tight budget, rather than taking a tour there are so many incredible hikes and famous waterfalls to visit that won’t cost you a penny (ensure your kids have good footwear). Some of our favourites were hiking from Arnastapi to Hellnar and getting up close to the famous Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall.

(Celine, Family Can Travel  – follow on Instagram )

Book last minute tours in Reykjavik

If you decide that an organised tour is what your holiday needs, get the best price you can. Stroll down Reykjavik’s main street once a day and you’ll pass all of the big travel agents and tour operators. They all post great last minute deals in their windows or on sandwich boards outside to catch walk-in business. You’ll get the very best last minute bargains to see the Golden Circle, go whale watching or whatever tempts you.

(Danielle, Live In 10 Countries)

Go to local pools and skip the Blue Lagoon

Visiting geothermal pools is one of the best things you can do in Iceland with children. But unless you’re prepared to spend a week’s salary on one pool, a family visit to the famous Blue Lagoon is not really the best option. You may have heard about the Secret Lagoon, Myvatn Nature Baths, or Fontana Wellness Lagoon – these are all fantastic Blue Lagoon alternatives – and although much cheaper than the Blue Lagoon, they can still be rather pricey.

I have good news for you though. A soak in warm geothermal waters in Iceland can be much more affordable than you think. And you don’t have to share a pool with hundreds of strangers. Visit local swimming pools! They are plentiful all over Iceland and they are always heated, often with at least a few hot tubs in different temperatures. Some public swimming pools even have saunas, water slides, or special heated pools for babies and toddlers.

Prices vary per location, but in general shouldn’t cost more than USD 5-10 for an adult, often free of charge for kids .

(Jurga, Full Suitcase – follow on Instagram )

If your planning to spend some time in Reykjavik with kids, make sure you read: Things to do in Reykjavik with kids .

Get the Reykjavik City Card

The Reykjavik City Card is an awesome way to save money on attractions that families will love. This card gives you unlimited access to 8 museums, 5 art galleries, 8 swimming pools, and the Reykjavik zoo for 24, 48, or 72 hours, and free use of city buses. I bought a 24-hour Reykjavik City Card, and used it for 4 attractions, which would have cost double otherwise!

The Reykjavik City Card is available at the Official Tourism Centre in Reykjavik, and many hotels. Prices start at ~ $35 USD for an adult for 24 hours, and $15 USD for a child.

(Nina, Nina Near and Far – follow on Instagram ) 

Or if you really want to save… avoid Reykjavik altogether!

One sacrifice worth making to truly enjoy Iceland on a budget is avoiding Reykjavik city altogether. The main reason for this is to avoid the temptation of the restaurants and bars where prices for just a burger with crisps [not chips/fries] can set you back £19! Although there are happy hours, a beer can set you back £8 and a glass of wine £11 in Reykjavik too. 

(Gemma, Two Scots Abroad )

TRAVEL GEAR

Make sure you have all the right travel gear with us before we go and purchasing clothing whilst in Iceland is a very expensive option. Those natural woollen Icelandic jumpers look very cosy, but they will set you back at least £100. Pack layers (including thermals), good quality waterproof jackets (we love these 3-in-1 jackets from Mountain warehouse ) and trousers, as well as waterproof hiking boots and woolly hats and gloves.

Check our our packing list for Iceland

(Jenny, TraveLynn Family )

You may also like to read: 5 Day Iceland Itinerary with kids The BEST Blue Lagoon alternatives in Iceland What to pack for Iceland

You can skip the planning for these 7 affordable bucket list family travel adventures

A s enriching as family vacations can be, there's no question they're stressful to plan. And if you want to show your kids the world, planning family travel adventures to bucket-list destinations like Ireland, Alaska, or America's national parks can also be a bit daunting. The good news is there may be a better alternative to consider—letting someone else do all the planning on a guided tour.

I've participated in numerous guided group tours with my family, and they've been among the most hassle-tree times together we've ever had. Letting trip planners and seasoned guides take care of tedious details and time-consuming logistics removes many of the difficulties that come with traveling, especially with kids. 

While a trip to the destination of your dreams is never going to be a cheap family vacation , group travel tours can save you time, money, and a lot of stress. The end result? Family travel adventures that run smoothly and don't come with any costly surprises. Here are 15 value-packed guided tours for your family’s 2024 adventures. 

Start the day smarter. Get all the news you need in your inbox each morning.

HASSLE-FREE VACATIONS: 11 best guided tour companies for family tours

1. Iceland with National Geographic Family Journeys

G Adventures

Renowned small group travel tour company G Adventures has teamed up with National Geographic to create escorted family travel itineraries that take full advantage of NatGeo’s expertise in wildlife, storytelling, and photography. The company’s eight-day Iceland Family Journey delves into the subarctic island nation’s unique geological features in an experiential way, including hiking on the edge of a volcanic crater and riding Icelandic horses near a waterfall. 

CLOSER TO HOME: 25 best family vacation spots in the USA

The tour company's trip leaders are trained to engage young guests ages seven to 17, and the participant limit is capped at 20. These guided family travel adventures start at $4,999 per adult (there’s a $200 discount for kids ages seven to 12) for 2024 and they include transportation within Iceland, accommodations, daily breakfast, three lunches, and one dinner. 

2. Highlights of Ireland

Brendan Vacations

The wild Atlantic Ocean, misty cliffs, and impossibly green countryside are a few of the reasons why the Emerald Island's mystical beauty has inspired poets for centuries. From Dublin's cosmopolitan charm to hanging by your heels to kiss the Blarney Stone in Cork, Brendan Vacations are experts when it comes to Celtic travel, and its Shamrocks and Leprechauns tour is a favorite with families.

NO PASSPORT NEEDED: 21 best all-inclusive resorts in the U.S. for families

Highlights include going behind the scenes where Game of Thrones was filmed and marveling at the spectacular Cliffs of Moher. Interactive experiences, such as tea with a family on their sheep farm and dressing up like medieval archers as you learn to aim a bow and arrow, make a lasting impression. 

There’s a maximum of 45 participants aged five and older on this 10-day trip in 2024. Prices start at $3,083 and children ages five to 17 receive a 10 percent discount. Transportation within Ireland, accommodations, and 15 meals are included. A travel director accompanies you throughout, with local specialists enriching the journey. 

3. Canadian Rockies from Banff to Jasper 

Backroads’ guided family travel adventures are a hit with active travelers who crave communion with nature. On Backroads’ Banff to Jasper Multi-Adventure Family Tour , you’ll join a small group of families as you bike, hike, and paddle your way across the magnificent Canadian Rockies. Float down the Athabasca River, soak in sweeping vistas at Icefields Parkway, and walk on a glacier. 

ACTIVE SENIORS: 9 best tour companies for travelers over 50: Road Scholar, Globus, more

This trip has a maximum of 26 guests and is recommended for ages nine and older. Trip leaders receive specialized training to ensure that they’re well-equipped to engage youngsters. The six-day trip costs $3,999 per person in 2024. Kids 17 and under receive a 10 percent discount when staying in a single or double occupancy room; the child discount is increased to 20 percent if there are three or more people staying in the same room. Lodging, activities, daily breakfast, six lunches, four dinners, and snacks are included. 

4. Grand Alaskan Adventure

If your family loves the Great Outdoors, Alaska is the vacation of a lifetime. Cosmos offers guided group tours to "America’s Last Frontier" that present value without skimping on quality. The Grand Alaskan Adventure is an appealing choice with a balanced blend of group activities and free time.

SEE THE WORLD: 11 guided tour companies that offer trips around the world  

Starting and finishing in Anchorage, you'll cross Prince William Sound and glimpse otters, seals, and whales. A ride on the Alaska Railroad will delight fans of train travel, while two days spent in Denali National Park’s wilderness is an immersion in majestic beauty. Keep your eyes open for bears, moose, and caribou as you travel the Denali Highway across Alaska’s lightly treaded interior.

In 2024, this seven-day guided family travel adventure starts at $2,139 and includes some meals, accommodations, and activities. Children as young as five are welcome, and those ages five to 17 receive a 10 percent discount. The average number of participants is 36.

5. Taste of Portugal

Globus 

With alluring beaches, ancient villages, and sophisticated cities, it’s no wonder Portugal is trending in 2024. The Taste of Portugal with Madeira guided group itinerary from Globus visits cosmopolitan Lisbon, Porto’s cobbled streets, and the semi-tropical island of Madeira, with its natural rock-pools and unique wicker basket toboggan ride. 

FAMILY TRAVEL ADVENTURES: 28 best places to go with kids this year

This 11-day escorted trip starts at $3,309 including hotels, nine breakfast, and three dinners. Kids as young as five may participate and those between ages five and 17 receive a 10 percent discount. The average group size is 36 guests. 

6. New Zealand Family Travel Adventure

Austin Adventures

Headquartered in New Zealand, guided tour company Austin Adventures is an expert when it comes to showcasing this country’s natural assets. Energetic families who want an intimate group experience will be pleased with the New Zealand Family Vacation itinerary. Starting and finishing in Christchurch, you'll visit a wildlife preserve with resident koalas, wallabies, kiwi, and ancient tuatara (a rare reptile); hike to glacial lakes; and kayak and float down a rose-lined gorge. 

FAR-FLUNG ADVENTURES: Bora Bora with kids? These French Polynesia family resorts belong on your vacation bucket list  

Children six and older are welcome on this 13-day trip, which costs $5,499 per adult and $4,999 per child 12 years and under. Lodging, activities, and almost all meals are part of the deal. The maximum group size is 14 people plus two guides. 

7. The Greek Islands of Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete

EF Go Ahead Tours 

Get acquainted with a trifecta of Greek islands on The Greek Islands: Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete from EF Go Ahead Tours . Absorb ancient Hellenic heritage in Athens before arriving in lively Mykonos for a dip in its crystal-clear water. Cruise to Santorini, where volcanic black sand beaches are juxtaposed with bright white and sea blue houses. Then it's on to Crete with its trail of historic treasures, from palaces to archaeological ruins. 

TROPICAL BLISS: 7 best tropical vacation spots for families  

This 14-day family travel adventure has a maximum of 30 participants and starts at $4,019 in 2024. It includes hotels, daily breakfast, five dinners, a dedicated tour director, and local guides along the way. Children age six and older are welcome, though they don't receive a discount.

Affordable bucket list family travel adventures where someone else does all the planning originally appeared on FamilyVacationist.com .

More from FamilyVacationist:

• 6 best Hawaii all-inclusive resorts for families
• 8 best Bahamas all-inclusive resorts for families
• 6 best-value all-inclusive resorts for families

FamilyVacationist.com and TourScoop.com are owned and operated by Vacationist Media LLC. Using the FamilyVacationist travel recommendation methodology , we review and select family vacation ideas , family vacation spots , all-inclusive family resorts , and classic family vacations for all ages. TourScoop covers guided group tours and tour operators , tour operator reviews , tour itinerary reviews and travel gear recommendations . The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: You can skip the planning for these 7 affordable bucket list family travel adventures