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These activities spark the kind of excitement that will make you feel young again or young forever.
A Glacial Family Getaway
Iceland, a land of fire and ice, is quickly becoming a top destination for those seeking a one-of-a-kind family vacation experience. With its stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and thrilling activities, this Nordic island country is perfect for travelers of all ages.
Need a fun fact to get both the kids and adults excited about Iceland? Here’s one: elves and trolls dominate much of Icelandic folklore. When you go about your adventures, it’ll be easy to understand why! Towering rock formations look like they could come to life any second, and misty waterfalls will have you believing magical beings are just around the corner. This is a chance to ignite your childlike wonder and experience your favorite bedtime stories in the flesh!
As you embark on an unforgettable family vacation in Iceland, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking sights and sounds, from the roar of mighty waterfalls to the whispers of ancient glaciers. And, with a variety of all-ages-friendly adventures to choose from, there’s no better way to bond with your loved ones than by sharing these exhilarating experiences!
Top 10 Family-Friendly Things to Do in Iceland
To help you plan the perfect itinerary for your Iceland family vacation, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 family-friendly activities that cater to all ages:
1. GO ON A ROAD TRIP ALONG ICELAND’S GOLDEN CIRCLE
Nothing says family vacation like a road trip. Of course, a drive through Iceland is on a whole other level! The Golden Circle is a 230-kilometer route in Southwest Iceland, easily accessible from the capital city of Reykjavik. Because there is virtually no traffic in Iceland, this trip can be completed in just half a day.
However, what truly makes this route so unique is its stops. Listen to the earth’s roar as geysers erupt at the Geysir Geothermal Area, feel the mist on your face at the Gullfoss waterfall, and marvel at the lush beauty of Ăžingvellir National Park. You can add other “unofficial” stops to your itinerary, such as the Secret Lagoon, the KeriĂ° Crater, Bruarfoss, or Iceland’s bluest waterfall.
2. WATCH & SPOT ICELAND’S WILDLIFE
Next on your family vacation itinerary is an Iceland wildlife-spotting adventure. Witness seals basking on the black sand beaches, join a whale-watching tour to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, or visit the coastal cliffs to catch a glimpse of the adorable Atlantic puffins.
These experiences can be had in various parts of Iceland. The Westfjords and Snaefellsnes Peninsula are great for puffin watching during the summer, while Ytri Tunga Beach is known for its seal population. For whale watching, Husavik and Reykjavik offer tours from April to October.
3. VISIT MUSEUMS & THE LAVA CENTER
For a touch of education and entertainment, set some time to get to know Iceland’s rich history and geology! You’ll find the Lava Center in Hvolsvöllur, an excellent year-round destination. The National Museum of Iceland and the Saga Museum, both in Reykjavik, offer insights into the country’s history and can be visited at any time of the year as well. There’s also the Whale Museum in Husavik and the Skogar Folk Museum in SkĂłgar.
4. RELAX IN THE BLUE LAGOON
A day of adventuring best ends with a relaxing dip in Iceland’s most famous natural hot spring. The mineral-rich waters of this geothermal spa provide numerous health benefits. Not to mention, its bright blue waters against the dark lava field create a surreal and magical environment.
The Blue Lagoon is located in the Reykjanes Peninsula and is open all year round. However, booking in advance is recommended due to its popularity. Due to the water’s high mineral content, only children above two years old are allowed, and children under eight years old are required to wear floaties (which can be rented for free at the entrance).
5. RIDE ON AN ICELANDIC HORSE
Icelandic horses are known for their pony-like build and gentle temperament, making them perfect for young riders. Feel the cool Icelandic breeze on your face and listen to the rhythm of hooves striking the ground as you traverse through beautiful landscapes. You can enjoy Icelandic horse riding in various locations, such as Laxnes Horse Farm near Reykjavik and Skjaldarvik Guest House in Akureyri. Summer is the prime time for horse riding, but many farms offer rides year-round.
6. GO DOG SLEDDING
Add a dash of excitement to your family vacation in Iceland with a thrilling dog sledding adventure. Pet-loving families are guaranteed to get a kick out of being pulled across the snow by a team of huskies! Dog sledding tours are primarily offered in South Iceland during the winter months. However, some operators like Dog Sledding Iceland offer tours year-round, using a wheeled sled during the snow-free months.
7. WALK INTO A GLACIER
This activity is a must if you’re after a unique experience! Think about it: how many people can honestly say they’ve walked through the heart of a glacier? Discover a world of blue ice with fascinating ice formations and crevasses. Just be sure to wrap up, as chilly air and dripping water are a given.
You can do this at Into the Glacier at Langjokull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier. Tours operate year-round but keep in mind that accessibility may depend on weather conditions.
8. DESCEND INTO A LAVA TUNNEL
After you’ve explored ice, it’s time to explore fire! But don’t worry – these tours take place in empty lava caves, so you won’t be literally journeying to the center of the earth. Instead, you can simply marvel at the vivid colors and patterns left by past volcanic eruptions. You can also feel the cool, damp air and hear your footsteps echo as you explore these underground wonders.
The RaufarhĂłlshellir and VĂĂ°gelmir lava caves are two of the most accessible and family-friendly options. Both are open year-round, but winter visits often provide the additional spectacle of ice formations.
9. SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
One of the most unforgettable experiences during your family vacation in Iceland is undoubtedly witnessing the Northern Lights. Watch as the sky dances with ethereal green, pink, and purple hues, a spectacle that will leave your family in awe.
The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is during the dark winter months, from late September to early April. The northern part of the country, away from city lights, offers the best viewing conditions. For a more in-depth guide on how, where, and when to see the majestic Aurora Borealis, be sure to check out our Northern Lights viewing guide.
10. EXPLORE THE FAMOUS DC-3 PLANE WRECK
Finally, add an element of intrigue to your trip by exploring Iceland’s famous shipwrecks and plane wrecks. The most famous is the DC-3 plane wreck on SĂłlheimasandur beach. SĂłlheimasandur is located in South Iceland, and the wreck can be visited year-round. However, it’s a four-kilometer walk from the parking area, so be prepared for a bit of a trek.
Where to Spend Your Family Vacation in Iceland
When planning your unforgettable family vacation in Iceland, choosing the right place to stay is essential. Here are five cities and towns that are not only close to the top family-friendly activities mentioned earlier but also offer a variety of attractions and amenities for everyone to enjoy.
- REYKJAVIK: As Iceland’s capital and largest city, Reykjavik is an ideal base for exploring the country. In addition to being near the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, and whale watching tours, the city offers vibrant street art, museums, and the iconic HallgrĂmskirkja church. Foodies will love visiting the famous hot dog stand Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur or grabbing a meal at GrillmarkaĂ°urinn, a top-rated Icelandic restaurant.
- AKUREYRI: Nicknamed the “Capital of North Iceland,” Akureyri is a charming town close to whale watching and puffin tours. The town boasts a lively arts scene, the stunning Akureyri Church, and a variety of cafes and restaurants, such as the popular Akureyri Fish and Chips. The Akureyri Botanical Garden is a lovely place to relax and enjoy Iceland’s flora.
- VĂŤK: VĂk is a small village on Iceland’s south coast, perfect for those looking to explore the Lava Center, SkĂłgafoss, and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls. This scenic location is also known for its black sand beaches and the dramatic sea stacks at Reynisfjara. In VĂk, you’ll find a variety of restaurants and shops, such as the charming SuĂ°ur-VĂk Restaurant.
- HĂšSAVĂŤK: HĂşsavĂk, known as the “Whale Capital of Iceland,” is an excellent base for whale watching and exploring the nearby Diamond Circle route. This picturesque town has a variety of restaurants and cafes, including NaustiĂ°, a local favorite for seafood. Don’t miss the HĂşsavĂk Whale Museum to learn more about these fascinating creatures.
- SELFÓSS: Selfoss is a town in South Iceland that offers easy access to the Golden Circle and is just a short drive from the famous Kerid Crater. The town has various facilities, including a public library, supermarkets, and restaurants like Tryggvaskáli, which serves delicious Icelandic cuisine. Selfoss is also home to the beautiful Selfosskirkja church.
Final Sentiments
Your unforgettable family vacation in Iceland is just a few clicks away. With its breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife, and an array of family-friendly activities, Iceland promises an adventure of a lifetime.
To ensure your stay is as comfortable and convenient as possible, consider planning your trips and finding vacation rentals with Rent By Owner. We list a vast selection of properties that cater to families of all sizes and preferences, providing the perfect home away from home. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to create lasting memories with your loved ones in Iceland – with Rent By Owner!
TLDR
Iceland is in demand as a family vacation destination, with its vast wilderness and thrilling activities. Experience the thrill of a family road trip along Iceland’s Golden Circle, spot diverse wildlife from seals to puffins, immerse in rich history and geology at museums and the Lava Center, unwind in the relaxing geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, connect with nature on an Icelandic horse ride, feel the rush of a dog sledding adventure, walk into the heart of a glacier, descend into vivid lava tunnels, witness the ethereal Northern Lights, and explore the fascinating DC-3 plane wreck. Set up camp in Reykjavik, Akureyri, HĂşsavĂk, VĂk, and Selfoss for your comfort and convenience, and plan your travels with Rent By Owner for a truly memorable family vacation in Iceland.
