Top Family-Friendly Activities in Iceland

Explore Exciting Family Activities in Iceland with iBestTravel

Iceland’s incredible landscape provides endless wonder for families, creating memories that last a lifetime.

Set off across the wild terrain without fears of “Are we there yet?” Filled with thrilling attractions, Iceland offers a variety of activities that keep the entire family entertained, whether relaxing in nature or enjoying adrenaline-pumping rides.

Wild horses near Heggstadir in Iceland.
From wild landscapes to spotting wild horses, driving in Iceland is never boring © David Noton / iBestTravel

Is Iceland Suitable for Kids?

Absolutely! A top tip is to bring swimsuits regardless of the season. During the summer, enjoy outdoor bouncing on jumping balloons found throughout the country, especially in Blönduós, which features a particularly large one. Additionally, pack a disc for various disc golf courses scattered across Iceland.

Keeping a football in the car is always a good idea for spontaneous games, as soccer fields are commonly found by schools. During winter, tobogganing is a fun addition that doesn’t take up much space.

Best Places in Iceland for Kids

In Reykjavík and its surroundings, you’ll encounter numerous museums, eateries, swimming pools, and a variety of children’s activities. Throughout your journey, you’ll find at least a few pools and playgrounds in most towns, while some remote areas boast exceptionally quirky museums.

Nature itself is an unending source of attraction for children and adults alike. However, ensure careful planning of longer hikes and Highland tours to match your children’s physical abilities and safety needs.

Gamla Laugin, the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir, South Iceland with people entering and in the water
Pack your swimsuits no matter what the weather as there are geothermal pools everywhere © Egill Bjarnason / iBestTravel

Top Activities for Babies and Toddlers in Iceland

Swimming Pools, Beaches, and Geothermal Pools

Enjoyable, relaxing, and budget-friendly, swimming pools across Iceland allow adults to unwind while kids can play freely. Almost every town and village features heated pools that provide a perfect escape, regardless of weather conditions.

The Akureyri pool is the most famous, known for having the longest waterslide in Iceland—thrilling for toddlers and kids alike. Other facilities include child-friendly pools and exciting slides sure to entertain the little ones.

Wildlife Encounters

Experience Iceland’s domesticated animals and more exotic wildlife at the Reykjavík Zoo and Family Park. Horse farms throughout the country also offer stable visits and horseback riding adventures suitable for various age groups.

Exploring Woodland Trails

Contrary to popular belief, Iceland does have several forests, which are popular for outdoor activities among locals. Many of these areas have playgrounds and obstacle courses for children.

Mother and son are traveling to Westman island by ferry in Iceland
Take to the sea and explore Iceland’s beautiful islands © EMS-FORSTER-PRODUCTIONS / Getty Images

Best Activities for Kids in Iceland

Boat Tours

Weather permitting, opt for exciting ocean adventures. Whale watching is a popular activity from numerous locations across the country, especially from Húsavík in the North. For fish enthusiasts, sea angling tours are also available, where you can often enjoy your catch cooked fresh on board.

Campsite Adventures

Camping offers a thrilling experience for children who love sleeping under the stars while providing a flexible and budget-friendly way to explore Iceland’s beautiful landscapes. Many campgrounds throughout the country boast excellent facilities.

Underground Exploration

Discover Iceland’s intriguing caves, from ancient human-made caves in Hella to the impressive Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel. Explore glaciers via the ice tunnel in Langjökull and experience the unique underground environments Iceland offers.

A family walking on a glacier in Iceland together
Going on more adventurous expeditions is possible with some preparation and planning © Henn Photography / Getty Images

Best Activities in Iceland for Teenagers

Hiking Adventures

With no shortage of mountains, hiking is a wonderful bonding experience for families in Iceland. Trails like Úlfarsfell and Mosfell near Reykjavík offer stunning vistas for minimal effort. For a more challenging adventure, explore longer trails around Húsafell or Þórsmörk.

Adrenaline-filled Ziplining

For thrill-seekers, ziplining in Iceland is a must. Recently opened in Hveragerði is the country’s longest and fastest zipline, catering to kids from nine years and older.

Winter Activities

Playing in snow is a quintessential childhood experience. The largest ski resort, Bláfjöll, is located conveniently near Reykjavík, offering a range of slopes and ski lessons for all ages, including sledding opportunities.

This article captures the adventurous spirit of family-friendly activities Iceland has to offer through iBestTravel, making it a perfect destination to create lasting memories.


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