Time and again the question comes up of what you can actually see and do with kids in Iceland. In this post we want to try to give a few answers and suggest activities and sights worth visiting. Here we go…
Reykjavik
Reykjavik, the northernmost capital in the world, is known for its lively atmosphere, rich culture and stunning architecture. With a mix of modern and traditional Icelandic design, Reykjavik is an ideal destination for families looking for both adventure and relaxation. Iceland in general is very child-friendly, and many places offer discounted or even free admission for kids.
Fly over Iceland
FlyOver Iceland offers a unique experience that lets you “fly” over Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes. Using state-of-the-art technology, you and your child are lifted into the air in front of a spherical screen, surrounded by special effects like wind, mist and scents that make the experience feel real. Two pre-shows – one set in an old Viking longhouse and the other a visual display of light and nature – prepare you for the flight. The experience is not only fascinating but also educational, presenting Iceland’s nature and history in an exciting way. This attraction is suitable for children who are at least 102 cm tall and is located in the Grandi harbour district, a vibrant part of Reykjavík with plenty of other interesting places to explore.
Helicopter tour
A helicopter tour over Iceland is certainly a notch more exciting than the virtual version. Different packages include more or less time in the air and landings in geothermal areas, on volcanoes or glaciers – and always a breathtaking view of the country.
Whales of Iceland
Whales of Iceland is a fantastic way to learn more about these giants of the sea. The fascinating world of whales is brought to life through life-sized models and interactive exhibits. It is a great mix of education and entertainment for your kids.
Perlan
Perlan is an architectural marvel offering a combination of natural history exhibitions and a stunning view of Reykjavik. Here you can learn more about Iceland’s unique geological and ecological features while enjoying a spectacular panorama of the city.
South coast
Iceland’s south coast offers an impressive landscape of waterfalls, black sand beaches and mighty glaciers. It is an ideal place for you and your child to explore Iceland’s natural beauty. You can find more information here on Iceland-Ringroad.
Lava Center
The Lava Center is an interactive museum focused on volcanic activity in Iceland. It offers a fascinating and educational experience for all ages and is especially interesting if you want to learn more about Iceland’s geological peculiarities.
Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel
Definitely exciting for kids and certainly not boring for the grown-ups is the Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel in the south of the Reykjanes peninsula. Located a little south of Hveragerði, where you can bathe with the kids in a hot river, you can see here how magma carved its way through old lava fields many thousands of years ago, leaving a long tunnel behind.
Reykholt
Reykholt is a historic region in Iceland, known for its cultural significance. It is a quiet, picturesque place, ideal for families who want to explore Iceland’s nature. Here you will find not only a lava cave but also a glacier cave as well as a wonderful spa. So there is something for everyone, and Reykholt makes a fantastic day trip from Reykjavik with an overnight stay.
Into the glacier
The experience at Into the Glacier offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore an ice cave inside the Langjökull glacier. This tour is an adventurous and educational experience, ideal for families who want to do something extraordinary.
Víðgelmir
Víðgelmir, Iceland’s largest lava cave, stretches for more than 1500 metres beneath a lava field near Reykholt and is only about a two-hour drive from Reykjavík. This cave is an absolute must, not only because of its impressive size but also because of its fascinating history, especially when you are on the western side of Iceland. It makes an excellent stop before or after a trip to the Snæfellsnes peninsula, as it is easy to reach from there, and it is hugely popular with kids and adults alike!
Krauma
The Krauma Spa, small but excellent and long established in the Reykholt region, offers a relaxing break a little off the usual tourist trails. That makes for a calmer atmosphere. Right next to it are the hottest and most active geothermal springs in the country, which feed the spa’s baths. With steam baths and an inviting restaurant, everything you need for your wellbeing is right there.
It is a perfect place for a relaxing break after visiting Víðgelmir or Into the glacier.
Free fun for kids in Iceland
Besides the attractions listed above, which usually offer discounts for children, there are also plenty of things to do with kids in Iceland that barely touch your wallet.
Iceland’s local swimming pools
Especially for kids, the local swimming pools end up being the better option compared to hot pots in Iceland. The pools almost always have a kids’ corner, slides and other things you are unlikely to find at natural hot pots. Prices are reasonable, and here too there are discounts or even free admission for children.
Iceland’s trampolines
All over the country you will find trampolines (Ærlsabelgur) covered with a tarpaulin, often in rainbow colours. They are frequently located at campsites and can be bounced on free of charge. Probably the best-known one is in Djúpivogur, in the south-east of the country. Like many things in Iceland, the idea comes from Denmark, where the “Hoppepuder” first appeared in the 1980s.
Here you can find a map of all the bouncy pillows in Iceland.
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