Family Adventure: Vacation with Small Children in Iceland

Iceland, known for its stunning landscapes, geothermal marvels, and rich Viking history, might seem like a destination primarily for thrill-seeking adults. But guess what? It’s also a fantastic spot for families with little ones! With its safe surroundings, kid-friendly attractions, and breathtaking natural beauty, Iceland is perfect for a family getaway. Here’s everything you need to know about traveling to Iceland with toddlers and young kids. It’s just about a 4-hour flight from Europe and around 6 hours from the east coast of the USA, making it quite manageable for families.

Why Iceland is Great for Small Children

Many parents hesitate to bring young children to Iceland, fearing cold weather, long drives, or a lack of child-friendly activities. However, Iceland is surprisingly welcoming to families:

• Safe & Clean: Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and clean public facilities.
• Short Distances: Many top attractions are within a 1-2 hour drive from Reykjavík.
• Interactive Nature: Kids love geysers, waterfalls, and lava fields—it’s like a giant outdoor playground!
• Family-Friendly Culture: Icelandic people adore children, and most restaurants and hotels accommodate families well.

Best Time to Visit Iceland with Small Kids

Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, but the best times for families are:

• Summer (June-August): Mild temperatures (50-60°F / 10-15°C), nearly 24-hour daylight, and accessible roads.
• Shoulder Seasons (May & September): Fewer crowds, but cooler weather.
• Winter (December-February): Possible Northern Lights sightings, but very cold and limited daylight—better for older kids.

For families with toddlers and preschoolers, summer is ideal because of the warmer weather and easier travel conditions.

Top Kid-Friendly Activities in Iceland

1. Reykjavík: A Perfect Starting Point

Reykjavík is small, walkable, and packed with attractions for little ones:

• Perlan Museum – Features an indoor ice cave, interactive exhibits, and a planetarium.
• Reykjavík Zoo & Family Park – A small but fun zoo with farm animals, playgrounds, and pony rides.
• Whale Watching Tours – Gentle giants like humpback whales often appear near the coast.
• Tjörnin Lake – Feed ducks and stroll along this charming city-center lake.

2. The Golden Circle – Must-See Stops

This classic route is manageable in a day and packed with excitement:

• Þingvellir National Park – Walk between tectonic plates (stroller-friendly paths available).
• Geysir & Strokkur – Kids will love watching Strokkur erupt every 5-10 minutes!
• Gullfoss Waterfall – A massive, thundering waterfall with safe viewing platforms.

3. Blue Lagoon or Local Geothermal Pools

While the Blue Lagoon is famous, it’s deep and not ideal for very young kids. Instead, try:

• Laugardalslaug (Reykjavík) – A heated pool with shallow areas and water slides.
• Secret Lagoon (Flúðir) – A more natural, kid-friendly hot spring.

4. South Coast Adventures

If you have extra time, the South Coast offers stunning sights:

• Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss Waterfalls – Walk behind Seljalandsfoss (with a carrier for toddlers) or let kids splash in Skógafoss’ mist.
• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – Marvel at basalt columns (but stay far from waves).
• Lava Centre (Hvolsvöllur) – An interactive volcano exhibit perfect for curious kids.

5. Animal Encounters

• Icelandic Horses – Gentle and friendly, many farms offer short rides for kids.
• Puffin Watching – Take a boat tour from Reykjavík or visit the Westman Islands.

Practical Tips for Traveling with Small Children

1. Packing Essentials

• Layers! Weather changes fast—pack thermal wear, waterproof jackets, and good shoes.
• Stroller vs. Carrier – Bring a sturdy stroller for Reykjavík, but a baby carrier is better for waterfalls and rough terrain.
• Snacks & Formula – Icelandic groceries are expensive, so bring familiar snacks.

2. Getting Around

• Rent a Car – Public transport is limited; a car gives flexibility for naps and breaks.
• Car Seats – Rent them with your vehicle or bring your own.

3. Dining with Kids

• Most restaurants have high chairs and kid menus (try hot dogs, a local favorite!).
• Grocery stores (Bónus, Krónan) are great for affordable meals.

4. Accommodation

• Choose family-friendly guesthouses or apartments with kitchens.
• Many hotels offer cribs—check in advance.

Final Thoughts

Traveling to Iceland with small children is not only possible but incredibly rewarding. The country’s natural wonders will captivate young minds, and the safe, welcoming atmosphere makes it stress-free for parents. With good planning—flexible schedules, warm clothing, and a sense of adventure—your family will have an unforgettable Icelandic experience.

Have you traveled to Iceland with kids? Share your tips in the comments!