A family trip to Iceland is an unforgettable experience for all ages.
Incredible sights and adventures await, and we’ve rounded up some of the best places for kids to experience the beautiful city of Reykjavík and its surrounding wonders. Keep reading to get inspired and plan your family getaway.
Prepare for an awe-inspiring adventure above Iceland at FlyOver. Sit with your feet dangling before a 20-metre spherical screen and immerse yourself in Iceland’s otherworldly beauty. Special effects, including wind, mist and scents, add to the fun.
Before the flight ride, you’ll stop at “The Longhouse,” where you’ll hear fascinating stories of the past. Then, you’ll continue to the “Well of Time” to dive deeper into Iceland’s mythology. Whether it’s your first stop in Iceland or a trip-closing recap, FlyOver is an incredible way to explore the land of fire and ice from a whole new perspective.
Get acquainted with the animals that call Iceland home. The Reykjavík Family Park and Zoo is open year-round, and is home to Icelandic horses, goats and sheep, along with harbor seals and reindeer. There’s also a farm-themed playground, a train, boats and a drop tower to try out.
The ocean is a fascinating place and Whales of Iceland spotlights the majestic giants of the deep. Take in life-sized models of 23 whale species that swim in the Icelandic waters. The museum also offers family friendly whale watching tours aboard safe and comfortable boats if you want to try to spot whales in the wild. Or watch whales in action at the Fin Whale Theatre inside the museum, which features an award-winning documentary about threats to the species and what humans can do to help.
Iceland is the land of volcanoes, and the Lava Show is the only attraction of its kind in the world — a safe, family friendly way to get up close to molten lava and see it in action.
The award-winning Icelandic Lava Show recreates a volcanic eruption by superheating real lava from the 1918 Katla eruption to more than 1,000 C (2,000 F), allowing guests to see it, smell it, hear it and feel its heat.
Iceland’s nautral beauty is truly unique, and a family hike makes for a great way to experience it. The Skógafoss Waterfall Hike is a 16-kilometre (10-mile) out-and-back trail, but you don’t have to walk the entire route to see stunning waterfalls. The trail starts at the Skógafoss waterfall, with 25 more falls to follow if you hike the whole way. June to September is the best time of year to visit this trail.
The Krýsuvík geothermal area is another natural stunner dotted with mud pots, hot springs and multicoloured mineral deposits. Or venture into the 300 square-kilometre Reykjanes Nature Reserve, the largest region of its kind in Iceland.
To experience nature without leaving the city, stop by the Perlan Wonders of Iceland. See the natural sights that make Iceland special, from volcanoes and the northern lights to the ocean and the world’s first indoor ice cave.
Don’t miss an opportunity to visit one of the most stunning landmarks in Reykjavík. Harpa Concert Hall is an award-winning work of art, but it’s also a cultural and social hub that’s hosted some huge names in the music world. Plus, the venue’s interactive family program is free and adapts to families of different origins and needs, making the Harpa a truly accessible space for kids of all ages.
Looking to dig into the past? Plan some time to take in the National Museum of Iceland and learn about more than 1,200 years of Icelandic history, from the settlement of the country to present day. The museum even offers a special children’s audio guide.
A snack break will be needed after all your exploring, and Valdís ice cream is an Icelandic favourite.
The first Valdís location opened in Reykjavík in 2013 with a concept that allowed customers to see the ice cream making process when they visited. The founders kept their ears open and have now created hundreds of fan-requested flavours, with new varieties arriving all the time.
There’s so much to see and do on a family trip to Reykjavík. Many attractions — like FlyOver Iceland — offer advance tickets. Book yours today!
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